January 25, 2010:  Today I filed the necessary paperwork with the West Virginia Secretary of State’s office to run for re-election.  When I first ran for Congress, I made a simple promise to put the interest of West Virginians first.  Over the last decade, I have worked in a bi-partisan manner to find common sense solutions to our problems.  Today, we face serious challenges from record job losses and staggering deficits to a greater demand for energy independence and increased threats from terrorists at home and abroad. 

At a time when we should be leading the nation in providing solutions to our energy needs, our state faces an assault from liberal special interests in Washington who seek to destroy our vital energy producing industries.  I will continue to fight the Obama Administration’s efforts to limit coal production because common sense tells me that in the midst of job loses the last thing government should do is seek to destroy good paying jobs.

I was the lone voice from West Virginia to vote against increasing our debt – in just the last year our deficit has more than tripled from $400 billion to over $1.5 trillion.  Spending is just one reason why I voted against the health care plan that would add to our deficits and hurt our state’s budget by costing us up to $725 million.

Opponents have consistently attacked me for voting to bring terrorist to justice; however, the recent attempts to blow up an airplane make it clear to me that we must remain steadfast in our commitment to fighting terrorism.

I have a renewed commitment and energy to fight for West Virginia jobs, reduce spending and protect our communities.  I look forward to the campaign ahead, traveling the 18 counties in the district, and talking to West Virginians about common sense solutions to our nation’s challenges.