Brian Barnes is running for Congress in the Minnesota 3rd Congressional District. Brian is a Merchant Marine Academy Graduate, he has spent 11 years in the Naval Reserve. He rose to the rank of Lt. Commander, and he is also an Eagle Scout. Brian`s dedication of service to this country reflects his dedication of defending the rights and benefits of Veterans. Brian on the Issues
Fiscal Responsibili
ty
"It is time to end the partisan gridlock in Congress that has resulted in the biggest budget deficit in the world’s history. Congress’s deficit spending reached $1.3 trillion this year, out of a federal budget of $3.6 trillion. Both parties must be held responsible. To solve the problems facing America, we can’t depend solely on raising taxes or cutting spending. It takes a sensible balance. Congress must thoughtfully weigh the considerations of our nation’s businesses, individuals, and economy as a whole. I support the Simpson-Bowles plan, which applies common sense and a bipartisan approach to put our financial house in order." Job Creation
"There are few problems the country faces that can’t be solved when every American brings home a decent paycheck. To compete in the increasingly competitive global economy, I support:
- A comprehensive higher education plan that is accessible and affordable
- Rebuilding our crumbling infrastructure
- Rewarding American job creation and enacting trade agreements that give American workers and industries a level playing field." Individual Rights
I stand for equal rights and a freedom for all citizens, including equal pay and protection under the law. Unlike my opponent, I am:
- Against efforts to write marriage discrimination into our Constitution
- Against relegating women to second-class citizenship
- Against government intervention in medical decisions that should be between a woman and her doctor