Issues

Deficits and Debt

The path to real deficit reduction and a balanced budget requires sacrifices from all Americans. From reducing spending, like cutting agriculture subsidies and accelerating the drawdown in Afghanistan, to increasing... more »

Energy

Our nation’s reliance on foreign oil is a threat to our national security, our economy, and our environment.  We need to invest in new forms of energy that will create... more »

Environment

Northwest Washington is one of the most beautiful areas of the country, with great opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hunting, hiking, fishing and kayaking.  I am working to protect open... more »

Health Care

Ensuring access to high quality, low cost health care is essential for people in Northwest Washington and across the country. Throughout my time in Congress, I have advocated for health... more »

Homeland Security

Efficient border crossings support good jobs.  I strongly support investments into border infrastructure to create jobs, enhance northern border safety, and facilitate legal border crossings for trade and tourism. Over... more »

Jobs and the Economy

My number one priority is creating jobs to get our economy back on track.  As the economy recovers from the recession, there are still too many people looking for jobs... more »

Military Affairs

As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I believe that it is my duty to work to improve services for our servicemembers and veterans. Over the last several... more »

Rick's Bills

Legislation that I have sponsored more »

Social Services

In this time of economic uncertainty, it is necessary to we maintain our social safety net to protect the most vulnerable. It is my goal to develop and enhance local... more »

The Legislative Process

Laws begin as ideas.  Members of Congress get ideas for how to make the country run better from conversations with constituents, businesses, and government agencies. Then, Members work with their... more »

Transportation

Investing in transportation creates jobs and keeps our economy moving. Every $1 billion we spend on highways and road projects creates 47,000 jobs in our community. As a member of... more »

Veterans

The Second Congressional District is home to more than 75,000 veterans including many veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. One of my most important responsibilities as a member of... more »