Technology has revolutionized almost every aspect of our lives, yet far too many federal government programs remain
trapped in the past. I believe 21 st Century Americans deserve a 21 st Century government that will keep pace with today’s
technology, reduce unnecessary bureaucracy, and take advantage of every opportunity to increase efficiency.
Congress has the responsibility to conduct oversight of government programs and ensure they remain an appropriate use
of taxpayer dollars, including eliminating programs that are duplicative, outdated, or no longer serve the national interest.
I have introduced several bills to modernize the government, including by raising its tech standards, fostering innovation
within government, increasing transparency and accountability, and streamlining agency approval processes. Most
recently, I’ve co-authored bipartisan legislation to encourage federal buildings to reduce utility costs by adopting
innovative energy efficiency technology at no cost to taxpayers.
I’ve also supported legislation to restore service standards at the U.S. Post Office, to promote consumers’ access to online
commerce and financial tools, and am a longtime proponent of the REINS Act, which requires high-cost regulations be
submitted to Congress for review and approval before going into effect. I also believe our federal government should be
closer to the taxpayers that fund it, and support decentralizing certain offices and functions away from Washington, D.C.
and relocating those jobs to states like Illinois.
Americans often discuss the ideal size of government, but I believe our government’s effectiveness is more important than
its size. We must infuse our government with innovative technology, transparency and accountability, and the ability to
adapt to 21st Century challenges and opportunities.