1. In a nutshell, what ails the U.S. economy and what if anything should Congress do to help fix it?

Congress must take action to address the economic challenges. These begin with skyrocketing energy costs; a business climate stifled by regulation/taxes, global competition disadvantages, and limited workforce education.

Energy independence: Congress must pass comprehensive legislation that encourages innovation in energy production while allowing all Americans to benefit from our wealth of domestic energy resources.

Business climate: Congress must stimulate free enterprise with low taxes and responsible regulation, key ingredients in a strong economy. Congress must act to protect consumers and small businesses facing the highest tax increase in history if the tax cuts of 2001/2003 are not made permanent.

Unfair global competition: Congress must assure free and fair trade agreements. Empowering domestic businesses with tax incentives measures that reward investment in new technology.

Workforce: Congress must address workforce education reform. We need greater technical training opportunities to support those adults who are facing the transition to a new career.

2. Should there be a timetable for withdrawal of U.S. military troops from Iraq? Why or why not?

Advertising of strategic dates and troop movements to our enemies puts our armed forces at greater risk and threatens the stability of the new democracy in Iraq. As both a candidate for public office and father of a soldier, I have full confidence in our ground commanders to make deployment and withdrawal decisions that support our strategic goals and protect our men and women in uniform. Shifting that responsibility from politicians and bureaucrats to military professionals improved the situation in Iraq significantly. Today, all of the "surge" divisions have returned home, and Iraq is more secure. I support continuing negotiation between the United States and Iraqi governments regarding measurable milestones based on Iraq's army accepting greater responsibility, which will allow more U.S. forces to return home.

3. Should oil and gas drilling be permitted in U.S. coastal waters? Why or why not?

I support drilling. This is a National, Economic and Environmental Security issue. We have all experienced the pain of high gas costs and the fear of expensive home heating coming this winter. High-energy costs represent an economic tax as everything we buy becomes more expensive. We send $700 Billion dollars/year overseas to buy oil from countries that wish us harm. My Energy Game Plan is a comprehensive approach designed to defeat our dependence on foreign oil. This three-part plan starts with “Developing Abundant Energy” which includes alternative energy development, oil shale, natural gas, nuclear, clean coal and drilling for US oil in the coastal waters. Coastal areas are estimated to hold 86 billion barrels of oil and 420 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. Current restrictions place 85% of coastal resources off limits with 97% of the areas unexplored. Any coastal drilling will include mandates for strong environmental safety measures.

4. If you alone could decide how to resolve the problems facing the Social Security retirement system, what would you do to resolve them?

As your Congressman, I am committed to protecting current and future American’s retirement. Older Americans should never fear whether their government will honor its commitment to them. I will fight for you to assure that those who have paid in for years will receive social security payments when they retire.

With the Baby-Boomer generation pending retirement, more pressure will be placed on a system already in trouble. The Thompson approach includes several ways to begin to fix this system. First, we must end spending social security money for other purposes and exercise fiscal discipline with the Federal Budget. Next, we must consider our children and grandchildren and safeguard retirement for them. My plan includes allowing young workers to do what Federal government employees already can do - invest part of their retirement funds in alternative investments yielding higher returns. I will work for retirement security for current retires and younger workers.

5. Why do you believe you are the best candidate to represent the people of Pennsylvania¹s 5th Congressional District in Congress?

The people of the Fifth District are good, hard working Americans who want economic prosperity, national security, and a positive environment in which to live, work, and raise their families. They want common sense brought back to government. From my professional healthcare career, public service, and community involvement, I bring the experience and shared values needed to get things done in the challenging environment that occurs in Congress today. I am experienced in the bipartisan legislative process.

My governing theme is “Working for Your Family’s Future”. In Congress I will always remember I work for you. Working for you means three things. First, it means seeing that Your Money is spent wisely. Second, it means we keep our Country Safe and see to America’s interests and security first. Lastly, it means protecting our Shared Values. I appreciate each and every vote and will work hard to earn your support.