10th Congressional District: Rep. Patrick McHenry answers questionnaire

Patrick McHenry
Party: Republican
Slogan: “Conservative Values. Effective Leadership. Fighting for Us.”
Profession:
Representative, 10th Congressional District
Residence: Cherryville
Funding: “$347,991 cash on hand”
Endorsements: U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Americans for Prosperity, National Taxpayers Union

1. What’s the first bill you’ll introduce if elected?

I would introduce legislation to repeal Obamacare and replace it with free-market healthcare solutions.

2. What local issue do you think you can have the most impact on?

Helping small business. Just this month, the President signed my bipartisan legislation, called crowdfunding. Crowdfunding will allow a startup or a coffee shop to raise capital from small investors. It gives everyday investors the opportunity to support small businesses, providing much-needed capital for economic growth and job creation.

3. What do you see as Congress’ role — and yours, if elected — in channeling federal dollars to your district?

I have sworn off earmarks and do not see my role as a member of Congress as someone who is to “bring home the bacon.” However, I work aggressively with local governments, universities, community colleges etc. to ensure that they are able to compete for grants and other available resources.

4. Do you support a cap on the national debt based on a percentage of the GDP? (Yes/No) Why?

I support a balanced budget and a cap on spending as a percentage of GDP. I don’t believe the federal government should run a deficit. I supported and voted for Cut, Cap, and Balance, which would have cut the deficit in half immediately and capped spending at 18 percent of GDP.

5. What issue(s) do the Asheville and Gastonia areas have in common? How do they differ?

For the past seven years I’ve served a diverse district spanning from Mooresville to Grandfather Mountain. Asheville and Gastonia are certainly different as well but both are places where small business can benefit from lower taxes, less regulations and better educational opportunities.

6. Sum up, in a haiku or limerick or couplet, why people should vote for you.

Gastonia, Shelby, Hickory, Asheville:
All in Western NC,
Some have said they are oh so different,
But people are people to me!

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About Jake Frankel
Jake Frankel is an award-winning journalist who enjoys covering a wide range of topics, from politics and government to business, education and entertainment.

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