A third-generation Mainer, I was born and raised in central Maine. My dad worked in the local public school system, and my mom was a nurse.
They are both now in their 80s and rely on Medicare and Social Security, like many Maine seniors. That’s why — despite what the false attack ads on your TV may be saying — I have always voted to protect and secure these vital programs. The budget I supported in 2015 specifically stated, very clearly, that it will protect Social Security and current Medicare benefits for those in and near retirement.
Additionally, I have been working to repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset so our teachers, firefighters, police officers and retired public servants can receive the benefits they earned and deserve.
I also have been using my 35 years of job creating experience to help protect and create more good-paying jobs. For example, I worked to help the former Brunswick Naval Air Station enter the HUBZone to spur economic growth there, and I worked with Rep. Chellie Pingree to introduce a bill that would let Cuba-bound airplanes stop to refuel at U.S. airports, such as Bangor International Airport. My opponent, Emily Cain, has zero job-creating experience.
For instance, I worked across the aisle with a Democratic colleague to force the Pentagon to issue made-in-America footwear, like those made at New Balance factories in Maine, to our military recruits. I am extremely proud of my work to help protect these roughly 900 jobs at New Balance in Maine.
More recently, I took on Wall Street and special interests to stop the Securities and Exchange Commission from implementing a harmful provision that would kill jobs and harm seniors. Now, Twin Rivers Paper Co., which employs roughly 600 Mainers, can continue to print the paper used for reports and our seniors continue to receive their reports in the mail.
Regarding trade, I voted against granting President Barack Obama Trade Promotion Authority, twice, and I am against the Trans-Pacific Partnership. We need trade deals that are fair. If the United States is on the same level playing field as everyone else, we can win.
And, as your representative in Congress, I have been working to ensure our veterans are the receiving the health care and benefits they deserve. That’s why I voted to increase funding for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs by $4.6 billion — a 5.6 percent increase from previous years. I also introduced legislation along with Sen. Susan Collins, who has endorsed my re-election, to extend the ARCH program for five years, ensuring our rural veterans receive the care they deserve closer to home.
Another concern I have is that our national debt is more than $19 trillion and growing. That’s why I supported a Balanced Budget Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. This amendment would ensure our budget is balanced every year, and it will keep our fiscal spending under control. The people of Maine balance their budget, so should Washington.
I am humbled by the opportunity to serve you. In Congress, I will continue my work to protect Medicare and Social Security, create more good-paying jobs, ensure our veterans receive the care they deserve and get Washington’s spending in order.
There is much more work to done, and I ask for your support Nov. 8 so we can get it accomplished.
Bruce Poliquin represents Maine’s 2nd Congressional District.