Where I Stand
Throughout my public service career, I have maintained a commitment to fiscal discipline. I strongly believe that we have to put our fiscal house in order, and also ensure that America remains competitive in the long-term.
I support a balanced approach to deficit reduction that doesn't place the majority of the burden on the most vulnerable Americans, including seniors and children. Further, we must address the national debt in a smart, responsible way that protects the middle class. Three elements are essential: responsible spending restraint, a fairer tax system with fewer loopholes, and smart investments that spur future economic growth and jobs.
While I believe we must make serious spending reductions, the mandatory, across-the-board spending cuts known as sequestration are not the way to go. I voted in favor of the American Family Economic Protection Act of 2013, which would have averted the sequester and provided a balanced approach to the budget. Sequestration is bad policy and no way to govern, and I remain committed to finding a responsible alternative.
We need to set priorities that make sense for hardworking middle class families and small businesses that are the backbone of our state and nation. My strong preference is for a more comprehensive plan that puts us on a path of fiscal sustainability, supports New Mexico's national laboratories and bases, maintains federal jobs and protects New Mexico's most vulnerable families. As a new member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for exactly that.
It is imperative that Congress tackles our annual budget deficits and overall national debt, and in doing so come to a bipartisan agreement on this critical challenge to our nation's future.
** Note ** this is from the original tomudall.senate.gov website from December 26, 2020; the page is no longer available, but may viewed on the wayback machine.
