We have just finished the Governmental Reform Section of the 2012 RNC Platform Committee.  This section addresses Medicare; more specifically, it addresses limiting costs and restoring consumer choice for patients.  It also proposes block grants to States where it can be better managed at much less cost.

 

The platform also calls for a reform of State pension plans at realistic costs and meeting the expectations of current employees and beneficiaries.  We are also addressing internet freedom and insuring constitutional protections on the information provided.

 

The platform takes the position THERE IS NO BUSINESS TOO BIG TO FAIL IF IT IS AT THE COST OF THE TAXPAYER.  We were also able to add that interest should be deductible on a home mortgage under any tax provision. This proposal failed yesterday, but I voiced that this was more than a tax deduction--it was our commitment to home ownership and our families.  The language was added today.

 

You will see a lengthy discussion of immigration and the rule of law, covering fencing to sanitary cities.

 

The platform also addressed federal civil service.  Statistics show 140,000 new federal employees were hired since the beginning of the current administration. I proposed reduction through attrition in our subcommittee, and it was not adopted.  Today, in the entire committee, we adopted this position. More federal employees making more regulations means more debt to me, and I was pleased to see this adopted.

 

Earlier this morning, we worked on foreign policy which included the dire warnings as to the effects of sequestration on our military. We also discussed Israel and how the platform should echo its support for that country without promoting a two state solution, until such time as Israel decides to take that step. Support was unanimous. It reflects our country's commitment to the state of Israel. 

The platform also addressed leaks on national security and START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty). There was a lengthy discussion on our military and their lives after service, including their families. The platform specifically recognizes veterans and the long term commitment to them from our country. We also addressed human trafficking in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia--China specifically. We also had a long discussion regarding the Middle East, how its changing, and the effects on our country.    

Now, we move forward to healthy families, great schools and safe neighborhoods.  More updates to come, Delbert.