September 2007

Why is Congressman Shuler Voting Against Our Working Families?

“Congressman Shuler’s Voting Record Shows He Says One Thing Here, But Votes Another Way in Washington” says Duncan.

As we celebrate working families today and the work ethic that makes our country great, it is disappointing to learn that our own Congressman, elected to represent our Western North Carolina interests in Congress, has in fact voted to undermine over 36,000 working families and harm over 300 locally-owned small businesses here in Western North Carolina. Congressman Shuler says he wants to provide jobs for Western North Carolina, but his actions tell a different story.

“Those handling him, everywhere he goes, have done a great job of presenting him here in Western North Carolina as one thing, and doing another in Washington,” concluded Stephen Duncan, GOP Chair NC-11^th Congressional District.

In 9 of 11 key votes to protect and support working families and our manufacturing industry, Shuler voted against Western North Carolina, our families and our jobs. (NAM Prosperity Project)

Ø Shuler voted YES on H.R. 4, requiring government to negotiate one-size fits all drug prices. Yet negotiations between insurers and manufacturers have driven down costs, so why did Shuler vote for something that may raise drug prices?

Ø Shuler voted YES on H.R. 6, which raised taxes on oil and gas companies. This bill not only raises taxes but increases energy costs for consumers and our small businesses, and Shuler voted for it.

Ø Shuler voted YES on H.R. 800, which undermines workers rights to a democratic workplace by making individual votes public rather than private, opens the door for intimidation and harassment of workers by union bosses. Shuler talks about “listening to the people,” why would he not listen to the people by protecting their right to secret ballot? (Roll Call Vote 118)

Ø Shuler voted YES on H.R. 1252, requiring the government to create price controls. Why would Shuler vote for the government interfering with our small businesses?

Ø Shuler voted NO on Peterson Amendment to H.R. 2643, which helps our local industry by increasing access to domestic sources of energy. Yet, by voting NO, Shuler is voting to raise energy costs for our manufacturers and businesses.

Ø Shuler voted YES on H.R. 2831, which removes incentives for quick resolution of discrimination claims. Why would Shuler be against quick resolution of claims, which only makes our workplaces happier and healthier?

Ø Shuler voted YES on H.R. 3221 and H.R. 2776, which in fact restricts domestic energy research and development leading towards higher energy prices. In fact, if energy prices go up, it results in less take home pay for our workers. Why would Shuler vote to support a bill that harms our employees?