“ I have been fighting to eliminate these programs since coming to Congress:
1. Subsidies for Big Oil. We give tax credits to some of the wealthiest companies in the world who directly determine the high prices at the pump. The first amendment I introduced in Congress was aimed at ending these subsidies. I am a cosponsor of legislation that would deny tax deductions to Big Oil and have continued to offer amendments that would deny these credits.
2. Tax loopholes that send jobs overseas. We need to reform our tax code by closing loopholes that make it easier and more profitable for corporations to send good-paying jobs overseas.
3. Non-vital defense spending. $1.1 trillion can be saved if we drawdown our troops in Afghanistan. Further, it costs 20% more to station soldiers in Europe than at home; I voted twice to make cuts from this Cold War practice.

I have consistently crossed the aisle in the best interest of my constituents and our country, but there are certain areas that should not cut:
1. Medicare and Social Security. I have vocally opposed the House’s budget, which would dismantle Medicare in favor of a voucher program. This would nearly triple our seniors’ out-of-pocket costs. Further, I am opposed to raising the benefits age for Social Security.
2. Programs that allow access to educational opportunities. Tuition reimbursement, tuition tax credits and loans help keep college accessible, which is necessary for innovation, individual opportunity, and economic growth.
3. Initiatives that promote small business growth through energy independence and research and development: America needs to reduce its reliance on foreign oil. Programs that support green energy small businesses will pay significant dividends, including permanent job creation and protection for our environment. Alternatives such as off-shore drilling endanger coastal tourism and our fishing industries. Critically, these programs will also help our local economy. Massachusetts is one of the country’s hubs for clean energy technology. ”

“ Cuts in spending I support:
1. I would support a 5% cut in military spending.
2. I would support ending government subsidies to the major oil companies and invest that money in renewable and alternative energy.
3. I would support ending government subsidies to the largest agricultural conglomerates.
Cuts in spending I do not support:
1. Elimination of the Child Tax Credit
2. Elimination of the home mortgage interest deduction.
3. Any cut to social security for Americans, except for the wealthiest one percent. ”