MISHAWAKA, IN – Congresswoman Jackie Walorski (IN-02) delivered the Weekly Statewide Republican Radio Address discussing recent passage of the fiscal year 2014 National Defense Authorization Act, including 3 provisions she authored combating military sexual assault, prohibiting the transfer of Guantanamo detainees to Yemen, and supporting the full enforcement of Iran sanctions. 

As a member of the House Armed Services and Budget Committees, Walorski highlighted the importance of a strong national defense to provide military readiness and contribute to economic stability.   

Click here to listen to the audio.  A full transcript follows.

Full Transcript:

“Hi, I’m Jackie Walorski,

“And I am proud to represent Indiana’s Second District Hoosier families in Congress.

“I have certainly seen the value of using Hoosier commonsense while working for you at home and in Washington.

“When I am grocery shopping on the weekends, I hear from Hoosiers like you about the frustration with partisan politics, and Washington gridlock preventing progress on important issues like creating jobs and boosting the economy.

“I want you to know that I share these sentiments, but I believe progress is possible when we work together on commonsense solutions.

“Just last week, the House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act to provide funding for our military.

“Contained in this bill is a bipartisan provision that I authored to combat military sexual assault in the Armed Forces.

“It is supported by over 100 Members of Congress—from both sides of the aisle.

“There is even a companion bill in the U.S. Senate that mirrors this effort.

“According to recent reports from the Pentagon,

“There were an estimated 26,000 cases of military sexual assault last year alone, with only 3,600 victims reporting.

“This is unacceptable.

“This past April, I had the privilege to visit our troops in Afghanistan and stand shoulder to shoulder with the finest military in the world.

“Hearing their concerns on this issue firsthand typifies the horrific reality of this situation. 

“And I heard their message loud and clear: something has to be done.

“We are talking about our sons and daughters. 

“We are talking about our brothers and sisters.

“I also offered amendments to prohibit the transfer of Guantanamo Bay detainees to Yemen and to support sanctions on Iran.

“Al Qaeda activity in the Arabian Peninsula continues to be a national security threat to our nation, reinforced by the rising reengagement rate and unstable security situation in Yemen.

“I am pleased this amendment was passed to assist in the continued effort to suppress terrorism and dismantle Al Qaeda.

“These are commonsense solutions and the right thing to do for the continued security of Americans at home and abroad.

“Our men and women in uniform are amongst the bravest and brightest individuals, representing the greatest force for good worldwide.

“Our hardworking families want to pass on better opportunities to their kids to keep the American dream alive.

“To do this, Congress must maintain a strong defense and foreign policy that will not only keep our children safe and secure this nation, but will contribute to a stronger economy and brighter future for the next generation.

“These efforts must continue at home as well.

“The House passed a common sense budget that will balance in 10 years and does not increase taxes.

“As a member of the House Budget Committee, I was proud to support this plan to create jobs.

“Hoosier families know that a budget that balances creates jobs.

“The solution to jumpstarting the economy is not more tax increases or more government spending. 

“Unfortunately, the President and Senate Democrats have proposals that do just that.

“Their plans include $1 trillion in tax increases and never balance—ever.

“In the State of Indiana, we passed a balanced budget, turned a deficit into a surplus, and bolstered economic growth.

“Today, we are proud to be a model for the country.

“Washington can do the same, which is why I introduced a balanced budget amendment as my first piece of legislation.

“Hardworking Hoosier families sit around their kitchen tables and make tough choices to keep a budget.

“Our households and businesses work hard to live within their means, and the federal government should, too.

“Moving forward, I am hopeful Congress can work together on more issues to create jobs, improve the economy, and show the American people we are listening.

“Thank you for listening, and enjoy the rest of your weekend!”

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Indianapolis, IN- Congresswoman-Elect Jackie Walorski (IN-02) today attended the 118th Session Organization Day in Indianapolis with members of the Indiana General Assembly for their first official day.  Joined by other members of the federal delegation, including fellow freshman colleagues Luke Messer and Susan Brooks, Walorski was proud to witness state lawmakers swear their oaths and roll out plans for the future.

“Indiana has proven that lawmakers can work together to turn a deficit into a surplus, cut spending, and create jobs,” said Walorski.  “I’m confident that under Governor Pence’s leadership our state will continue to be a model for the nation, and I look forward to bringing some Hoosier common sense to Washington.”

Walorski, a former State Representative, sat with members of the federal delegation as the Indiana General Assembly unveiled their tentative plans for the upcoming Congress, including further tax reform and bipartisan plans to improve economic development and create jobs.  Indiana currently enjoys a $2 billion budget reserve as a result of successful pro-growth policies and state spending cuts. 

“I’m proud that Indiana’s leadership has set the tone for this session, highlighting the importance of bipartisanship and teamwork on both the state and federal level to continue serving Hoosier families,” said Walorski.

While today was the Indiana General Assembly’s first official day, legislative work will begin on January 7th.  During this 4-month session, lawmakers must settle on a state budget for 2014-15. 

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Elkhart, IN- Congresswoman-Elect Jackie Walorski (IN-02) today released the following statement in observation of Veteran’s Day:

“Veteran’s Day provides a unique to recognize the brave men and women of our United States Military.  It is with the deepest appreciation and humility that Dean and I extend our gratitude for all veterans and their families for their devoted service to our nation.  As we continue to face grave challenges, I encourage Hoosiers to take a moment to thank a veteran, attend a service, or participate in a community event to celebrate the valor and bravery of our talented servicemen and women who continue to protect our liberties and freedom.”

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Mishawaka, IN- Republican Congressional Candidate Jackie Walorski and Gubernatorial Candidate Mike Pence today held a pre-election rally, “Onward to Victory” Rally, in downtown Mishawaka at Stevie’s Unique Treats.  The candidates drew an overwhelming crowd of over 120 supporters, allowing standing room only and overflowing onto the sidewalk.  Voters came from as far as Miami County to see Walorski and Pence one final time before the polls open tomorrow morning.

“After months of campaigning, it is clear there are two very different paths for Hoosiers to choose from tomorrow,” said Walorski.  “There is the Obama-Pelosi-Mullen path of more spending and higher taxes, or there is the Hoosier common sense path of a balanced budget and reduced regulations to help us create jobs.”

Walorski and Pence energized voters with one final reminder of the important issues facing our nation as Hoosiers hit the polls.  Both candidates have been heavily focused on jobs and the economy, creating tangible plans they feel will start moving Americans in the right direction.

Mayor Dave Wood and State Representative Timothy Wesco joined the candidates, and both officials have endorsed Walorski’s candidacy for U.S. Congress.   Walorski will continue to make her final stops throughout the day in Elkhart and Fulton Counties, including a Spaghetti Lunch at Elkhart Kiwanis Club.

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Elkhart, IN- Jackie Walorski (IN-02) today proudly announced a robust group of local officials endorsing her candidacy in the second district congressional race.  After serving in the state legislature, Walorski has partnered with many of her endorsing officials to work on various issues to benefit both the district and Hoosier State.

“I am honored to earn the endorsement of so many of our elected officials,” said Walorski.  “Their support is a direct result of the meaningful relationships I have fostered with many, either in the State Legislature or in the community.  Our teamwork has passed important legislation and helped Hoosier families, and I look forward to our continued progress if I am elected to Congress.”

Mayors

David Wood, Mishawaka

Blair Milo, La Porte

Larry Thompson, Nappanee

Mark Senter, Plymouth

Mark Smiley, Rochester

Robert Vanlandingham, Wabash

Jim Walker, Peru

State Senators

Ed Charbonneau, District 5

Ryan Mishler, District 8

Carlin Yoder, District 12

Jim Banks, District 17

Randy Head, District 18

State Representatives

Doug Gutwein, District 16

Dave Wolkins, District 18

Tom Dermody, District 20

Tim Wesco, District 21

Rebecca Kubacki, District 22

Bill Friend, District 23

Tim Neese, District 48

County Commissioners

Frank Lucchese, Elkhart

Mike Yoder, Elkhart

Terry Rodino, Elkhart

Andrew Kostielney, St. Joseph

Craig Boyer, Miami

Josh Francis, Miami

Brian Haupert, Wabash

Barry Eppley, Wabash

Sherry Fulton, Fulton

Tracey Shorter, Pulaski

Brad Jackson, Kosciusko

Kathy Norem, Starke

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