Representative-Elect Dan Benishek plans on cutting spending and revamping the earmark system
IRON MOUNTAIN -- It's been nearly two months since Dan Benishek was elected as Michigan’s First Congressional District's new representative.
Like many of the newly elected congressmen, Benishek supports cutting government spending and taxes. He said that's what it'll take to get the economy moving again and restoring the confidence of Americans in their government.
"They're afraid, they don't know what's happening,” said Benishek. “They know that the economy is bad, and people aren't spending money foolishly now; they're conserving it. To have the government take more money away from you and spend it somewhere else, nobody wants that."
One of the key differences between Benishek and the man he is replacing, retiring Representative Bart Stupak, is their stance on earmarks and how to bring more jobs to the first district.
As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives for 18 years, Stupak used earmarks and his congressional seniority to bring jobs to the area, like the ship building contract at Marinette Marine.
"This is a long-term contract, and it bothers me when he says he's not going to do earmarks or bring things back home to the district,” said Stupak. “These are jobs, these are manufacturing, well-paying jobs. So that's the first part I think he has to understand."
Benishek said he plans to bring jobs and money to the area without using earmarks. He's calling for a revamped system giving everyone an equal share.
"Whoever has the loudest voice seems to be getting the money,” he said. “If we have a comprehensive plan where all the facilities are repaired as they should be, then we're going to be part of that plan."
Benishek will officially take his new approach to Washington when he is sworn in January 5.
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