Dear Friends:
You may have noticed the latest “product” from big government advocates in Washington. We now know the Obama Health and Human Services Department is planning to compile a federal health record on all U.S. citizens by 2014, and will include information on each individual’s Body Mass Index in the files.

Some argue that an individual’s Body Mass Index indicates whether that person is dieting and exercising properly. We may all prefer healthy life styles, but I don’t believe the federal government needs to be involved in such personal matters. Instead, I advocate personal accountability and personal responsibility. The federal government should concentrate on doing well a limited number of core duties – such as national defense. It should not be constantly looking for ways to expand its reach.

I believe this is an unacceptable intrusion by government into the private lives of Americans. It is costly, and susceptible to abuse. As the financial burden and unbearable strain of Obamacare has started to take its toll on healthcare costs, such information like BMI can eventually be used to help government bureaucrats to ration health care.

Even if that’s not the case, I’m opposed to the expansion federal bureaucracies, out-of-control spending, tax increases, and increasing dependency on government.

My opponent and his Democratic colleagues are united in pursuing these policies that are weakening our free market economy. My approach would be dramatically different. I would look for ways to reduce government excesses, to reduce taxes, shrink bureaucracies and allow individuals more freedom to create jobs and keep what they earn. It is a major difference between us.

Voters of the 25th District will have a real choice in November. One path is business as usual in Washington with my opponent. That means huge and growing deficits, runaway spending, higher taxes, and an ever-expanding government. Or voters can opt for an entirely different policy approach that I will fight for – living within our means and preserving the best opportunity for our children and grandchildren to succeed.

I appreciate your help as we approach this watershed election. I will do my best to bring back your Voice.

Sincerely,

Ann Marie Buerkle