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My first concern with our agricultural base is the pressing need to resolve our requirements for ample water. The California Federal Bay-Delta program has by all accounts failed to reach the main goals so optimistically set in 2000. The issue needs our urgent attention. On an issue of great importance to Valley Agriculture - free trade legislation - Lopez noted that the incumbent in the 20th District, a so-called “Blue Dog Democrat,” voted against the Central American Free Trade Agreement and, in effect, against the interests of local farmers. The second key is economic development, Lopez said. “We need positive growth in the valley and we must make it an attractive place for economic development. Federal tax and regulatory policies have a substantial influence on the willingness of investors to pursue opportunities. I will work to keep low taxes, to eliminate the “death tax” and reduce harmful regulations. I note that the National Taxpayers Union gives the incumbent in the 20th District, a so-called Blue Dog Democrat, a 77 percent unfavorable rating. He scored an ‘F.’ He’s voted for 71 bills increasing federal taxes and only four for reducing them. Unemployment in the three main counties where the 20th District is drawn averages over eight percent (not seasonally adjusted). Poverty ranks high in the valley due to minimal skills, lack of education and a shortfall of job opportunities. For anyone in poverty, the permanent solution lies not in welfare but in the opportunity to improve one’s lot and share in a larger economic pie. Growth in agriculture, business and potential industry --- and legislation addressing the requirements for seasonal workers --- will help reduce unemployment and I will work hard for this end. On Iraq and the war on terror, I fully support winning the nation’s objectives. I am a veteran with over 22 years’ service in our armed forces in the Marine Corps and in the Air Force. During my service I was awarded the Distinguished flying Cross, 16 Air Medals and the Cross of Gallantry and Meritorious service Medal. I know from my combat experience in Vietnam how important it is for our forces to have the backing and support of the American people. The defeatist, isolationist, protectionist Democrats who naively would have us withdraw from the reality of the threats against us must be opposed in Congress. On immigration and citizenship, I believe the country must make its borders secure. I will fight for secure borders, a rational immigration policy including regularization of immigration, new worker programs, and programs which will educate newcomers about the benefits of our representative democracy and help make them proud citizens of the United States. As a person of Mexican heritage, I am a proud American --- not a hyphenated American. I am keenly aware of the desire of others in less prosperous countries to seek opportunity here. But their presence can only be granted following application for legal entry. As successful small businessman, I have been on the Tax Advisory Committee of the Board of Equalization, a vice president of the California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and have received the Minority Small Business Advocate of the Year award from the U. S. Small Business Administration. My wife Dolores and I live in Bakersfield. We are members of Christ the King Church, where we participate actively in church activities. Dolores Lopez is the custodian of records. |