GOP primary: Q&A on bolstering the economy

Question 2: As a state legislator, what measures would you take or support in the General Assembly to strengthen the economy?

Jeff Helgeson

“It has been said that a government that tries to tax its way out of a recession is like throwing an anvil to a drowning man to try to save him. During both of my terms on Lynchburg City Council, I have always acted on the belief that the needs of citizens are greater than the needs of government. As Ronald Reagan said, ‘Government is not the solution to our problems — Government IS the problem.’

“Often, when politicians speak of a ‘budget crisis,’ they are speaking of their primary concern that government wants more of taxpayers’ money to accomplish the many things that are believed to be (supposedly) ‘good’ for the people. I believe the bulk of the problems that businesses, individuals and families face today would be

better solved by having greater freedom from the tyranny of taxes and government bureaucracy — rather than more of what the government can do FOR us.

“As a member of the House of Delegates, I will continue to fight for government to focus on core services like public safety and infrastructure. I will continue to fight against wasteful spending — regardless of the state of the economy. I will continue to fight for lower tax burdens on businesses, individuals and families — regardless of the state of the economy. I will continue to fight for greater freedom from regulations that suffocate economic prosperity for our economy and our people — regardless of the state of the economy.

“Once elected, I will work to strengthen the economy by fighting attempts to make government fix it. I will strive to get government to focus on core services, while working to lighten the burdens that keep businesses, individuals and families from thriving.”

Scott Garrett

“During the past few months I’ve spoken with countless business leaders in our community, and I understand that government is choking economic development through high taxes and over-regulation. As someone who’s had to make payroll with a small business, in this case my medical practice, I know how difficult it can be to grow a business even in the best economic climate.

“I am working on a proposal to create a state tax credit for each job created by small businesses in Virginia, because small businesses are the engine of economic growth. Seventy-five percent of all new jobs in our country are created by America’s small businesses. I will be a champion for the small-business-friendly legislation which the General Assembly must pass to revitalize Virginia’s economic engine. I will also support immediate across the board tax cuts for the Commonwealth’s small businesses.

“Finally, I will do everything I can to protect Virginia’s status as a business-friendly state. That includes cutting the red tape and regulation which prevent entrepreneurs from starting new businesses. It also means that I will fight to protect our Right to Work laws, which are a cornerstone of what has made Virginia one of the best states in which to do business.”

Editor’s note: Monday through Thursday of this week, The News & Advance will publish answers from the two candidates in the 23rd House District Republican primary to questions on election issues.For earlier questions and answers, go to www.newsadvance.com