These are difficult times for our state and our nation. The economy, while in the early days of a recovery, is emerging from one of the worst recessions in American history. The country faces critical economic and national security challenges throughout the world. California needs proven leadership in the U.S. Senate that is prepared to meet those challenges. My number one priority is to bring stability to California’s and the nation’s economy. I support sensible measures to grow the economy like payroll tax cuts, a refinancing plan to help homeowners with their mortgages and end the epidemic of foreclosures in our state, a much needed infrastructure plan to create jobs, support for teacher and first responder salaries, and tax credits for employers to hire unemployed veterans and the long-term unemployed. I am also deeply committed to protecting the Social Security and Medicare programs that are so vital to our seniors. The Senate Intelligence Committee, which I chair, is now run in a nonpartisan manner, making us more effective in protecting the nation’s security, disrupting terrorist activity, and providing critical oversight of the 16 agencies of the Intelligence Community. As a member of the Judiciary Committee, I remain vigilant in safeguarding the civil rights of all our citizens and am unwavering in protecting a woman’s right to choose against all assaults. I’m running for U.S. Senate because I believe I possess the know-how, experience, and commitment to make a difference for California. Your support will be deeply appreciated.

We can’t change Washington without changing some of the people in Washington. The gridlock we see in Congress every day is hurting Californians. Unemployment in our state is much higher than the national average, job growth is slower, and that means fewer opportunities for California’s hard-working men and women. Of the 10 cities in America with the worst unemployment, 9 are in our state. California has had the same representation in the United States Senate for nearly twenty years, yet our challenges have grown worse. The Senate’s failure to act on critically important bills means the small businesses we need to create jobs are threatened by higher taxes, and even more burdensome regulations. Our Central Valley farmers need water. Our high tech sector needs tax reform that keeps jobs here. Our national security and defense industries are seriously threatened. The status quo has failed. We need new leadership, renewed energy, and a fresh start in the U.S. Senate. As a wife and mother of three, I’m concerned for my children’s future. I’m determined to make Washington work by making it easier to create jobs here in California instead of overseas, by making sure you and your family can choose the education and health care that’s right for you, and that we help those who are truly in need. I would be honored to earn your support. Learn more at www.Emken2012.com.