Issues

America depends on our farms for food, clothing, and thousands of jobs. Many farms are small family businesses that make up the economic and cultural backbone of Maryland's First Congressional District. As a Senator in the Maryland General Assembly, I helped promote and protect Maryland agriculture and poultry. I continue to do the same in the halls of Congress.

The primary duty of our government is to protect the American people from all enemies, foreign and domestic. In the era of global terrorism and nuclear weaponry, strengthening our military and intelligence communities is the key to ensuring our nation's safety. As a veteran, I value the hard work and sacrifices our servicemen and women make to protect our country, but I also understand that the use of military force is not something that should be taken lightly.

We should not be satisfied with the historically low economic growth rate of the past decade. 

Every child should have access to a quality education, whether they are educated in a public school, private school, or at home. The best way to provide children with quality education is to have local governments determine the best curricula for their students, not through federal micromanagement. Education is not a "one size fits all" issue, and that has been the federal government's approach for too long.

Growing up, I was taught that you should always try to leave a place better than the way you found it – and that's my philosophy when it comes to the environment. The Chesapeake Bay is a national treasure that must be preserved for future generations to enjoy. My kids swim in it, our family catches crabs and rockfish out of it, and its economic impact on the Maryland's First Congressional District is immeasurable.

As a physician, I am keenly aware of the challenges that all Americans face when it comes to health care.