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LWV League of Women Voters of California Education Fund

Smart Voter
San Diego, Orange County, CA November 6, 2012 Election
Candidates Answer Questions on the Issues
United States Representative; District 49


The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of California Education Fund and asked of all candidates for this office.     See below for questions on Economy, Budget, Energy, Health care, Campaign financing

Click on a name for candidate information.   See also more information about this contest.

? 1. In this time of high unemployment, what are the most important steps that should be taken to improve our nation’s economy?

Answer from Jerry Tetalman:

As a nation we need to support America's middle class through job creation and sustainable economic growth. Creating a favorable business environment through sound fiscal policy will accomplish that goal. Businesses need access to low interest loans to encourage expansion and job creation.

? 2. How should the federal budget deficit be addressed, now and into the future? How should budget priorities for defense and domestic programs be adjusted?

Answer from Jerry Tetalman:

The deficit must be reduced while at the same time the economy must be energized. We should do what is economically prudent, and not engage in gridlock politics such as last year when Congress's inability to raise the debt ceiling led to a lowering of our credit rating. Defense spending priorities should be shifted away from a war footing. Domestic programs that support the poor and middle class are a priority.

? 3. What are your priorities with respect to our nation’s energy policy? Should there be an emphasis on clean energy and reducing carbon emissions, and/or on reducing our dependence on foreign sources?

Answer from Jerry Tetalman:

I support environmental protections and sustainable energy policies, including the development and use of alternative and sustainable energy resources such as wind, solar, and geo-thermal.

? 4. What, if any, changes should be made to federal health care policies or programs?

Answer from Jerry Tetalman:

Heath care is a human right. I support a Single Payer Health Care System as the only effective way to cut administrative and provider costs, and ensure coverage for all Americans. I support protecting women's reproductive rights and freedom to make heath care decisions without government interference.

? 5. What, if any, changes should be made to federal rules on campaign financing?

Answer from Jerry Tetalman:

There is too much corporate money and influence in politics. The "Citizens United" Supreme Court decision on super PACs has made this situation worse. It should be reversed by the Court or declared illegal by a Constitutional Amendment.


Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' statements are presented as submitted. References to opponents are not permitted.

The order of the candidates is random and changes daily. Candidates who did not respond are not listed on this page.


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Created: December 17, 2012 13:48 PST
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