On The Issues

Doug is running for Congress because he believes that the government needs to work for all of us, not just the powerful and well-connected. His stands on the issues are part of a broad vision to improve the lives of all Americans. 

The Economy

We need a new, sustainable vision for rebuilding and reinvigorating the American economy. We must invest in a new energy infrastructure that will create clean energy jobs right here in Pennsylvania. We also need a renewed national focus on transportation and infrastructure that will create jobs today and support our economy as we come out of the economic downturn.

Energy

Our dependence on finite energy sources not only threatens our economy, but our environment and national security, too. We need to take tough steps that will break our addiction to foreign oil and create clean energy jobs that will benefit Pennsylvania workers and industry while protecting our security and our environment.

Health Care

Reforming our health care system is a critical part of strengthening our economy. Pennsylvania businesses large and small are struggling with an explosion in costs, and families are left holding the bag. Doug will bring his health care expertise with him to Congress to fight for quality, affordable coverage for every American – including a strong public option that will create real competition to lower costs.

Ethics

Doug rejects the system of “politics as usual” that rewards the powerful while leaving most Pennsylvanians high and dry. As a journalist, he worked for decades to hold politicians accountable, and he is ready to take that spirit to Congress and make our voices heard. Doug will work to strengthen ethics rules, close tax loopholes and reform government procurement procedures that too often reward the best lobbyist, not the best interests of Pennsylvania or the nation.

National Security

Even though America’s image abroad has been tarnished over the past decade, we remain the most powerful nation in the world. In Congress, Doug will work with the Obama Administration to strengthen our national security in a smart and open way. This includes bringing troops home from Iraq, defeating Al Qaeda, rebuilding multilateral institutions and strengthening the rule of law.

Equality

Doug is a passionate believer in equal rights for all Americans, including those who are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. He strongly opposes the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy that has forced the military to dismiss almost 13,000 soldiers since 1993 simply because of who they are. Doug supports the Military Readiness Act that would replace “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” with a policy of non-discrimination and allow all Americans to serve openly – and strengthen our military.

Education

In today’s world, a high school diploma no longer guarantees a well-paying job. Americans must be better educated to compete in the global economy. That’s why Doug will work to make college affordable for all – and to make sure that young Americans understand its value. In Congress, Doug will also push for higher salaries, better support and more accountability for teachers. And he’ll fight to fully fund early childhood education and special education. 

Veterans

Doug believes in providing our soldiers with the equipment and training they need to succeed on the battlefield – and in treating our veterans as heroes when they return home. As a Congressman, he will work to provide Pennsylvania’s veterans with world-class health care, job opportunities and affordable education. He is a strong supporter of the new post-9/11 GI bill.