Headlines

Headline: “Schweikert Says Raising Taxes on Richest Is ‘Nonstarter’”

In April 2011, Schweikert Talked about deficit-reduction negotiations and raising the federal debt ceiling. [Bloomberg, 4/14/11]

Clips of Interest

Left Door Open to Cutting Social Security, Medicare and Defense

In an interview Schweikert said, “It’s just the beginning, but we’re are very quickly going to have to have the American people join us in a conversation saying, look, Social Security, Medicare, Defense, everything we spend money on and then our total revenues, they’re way out of whack. We’ve got to figure out a way to put this back in the box.” [Human Events Online, 2/11/11]

Cut without Regards to Specifics

Schweikert said he cut without regards to specifics in the February 2011 continuing resolution debate, “I have spent very little time on the line items.”

Schweikert said he would tell his district the story of shared sacrifice, “We have to tell the story of a shared sacrifice.” [International Herald Tribune, 2/18/11]

Major Republican Donor Testified before Financial Services Committee

In March 2011, Lewis E. Lehrman was invited to testify before the subcommittee on Domestic Monetary Policy & Technology. [Subcommittee witness list, accessed 3/16/11]

… Which Included Members He Donated To

At the time that Lehrman was set to testify before the Domestic Monetary Policy subcommittee, the following members of that committee accepted donations from Lehrman:

Nan Hayworth – Accepted $1,500 on October 15, 2010 David Schweikert – Accepted $1,000 on September 30, 2010[fec.gov, accessed 3/16/11]

Fundraised Off of Votes for Spending Cuts

In March 2011 Schweikert fundraise off his support for government spending cuts. He asked for $100 contributions saying people were “investing in honesty.”

“Quite frankly, the cuts aren’t coming fast enough, but we are keeping up the pressure!,” Schweikert wrote. “We can keep that fight going, we are driving the agenda and listening to you.”

“When we continue to cut government, we win,” the Republican wrote in his appeal for campaign donations. [The Hill, 3/14/11]

Ryan Budget was “Everything”

In 2011, Schweikert said the Ryan Budget was “everything.” House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan was expected to give Social Security a pass, while proposing to overhaul Medicare and Medicaid. “I wouldn’t be surprised if it says nothing about Social Security,” freshman Rep. David Schweikert (R-Ariz.) said. “The biggest contributors to the debt are the healthcare programs.”

Schweikert went on to say that the Ryan budget was more important than the current fight over 2011 spending. “That document is everything,” he said. [The Hill, 3/30/11]

FEC Voted on Whether Negative Mailer Violated Law Because it Didn’t Clearly Identify That He Paid for It

During the 2010 election Schweikert put out a negative campaign mailer that did not clearly identify that he paid for it. Three Democratic commissioners voted that the mailer was illegal saying the public “has a right to know who is responsible for such advertisements.” [Washington Post, 3/28/11]

Said U.S. Had Plenty of Income to Cover Debt Payment, Debt Ceiling Didn’t Need to be Raised

In April 2011, Schweikert told Fox News that he was using his town halls to assert that the debt ceiling did not need to be raised. He ran on a platform of less spending, critical of TARP. Schweikert said he was using his town halls to try to “chip away at the story that Secretary Geithner has been telling around the country, that the world comes to an end — which just isn’t true.”

“Just because you hit the debt ceiling doesn’t mean there isn’t enough income to cover your debt payment,” Schweikert said. “We have plenty of income.” [The Hill, 4/26/11]

Showed a Willingness to Vote Against Debt Limit

Schweikert showed a willingness to vote against the debt limit. The East Valley Tribune reported “many Republicans have shown a willingness to vote against the debt limit, including Schweikert.” He said “We are buried in debt, absolutely buried in debt. We need to start telling our brothers and sisters, and the markets and our communities that we are going to step up and find someway out of this crushing burden we are putting on our kids and grandkids.” [East Valley Tribune, 4/26/11]

Knew Failing to Raise Debt Ceiling Could Result in Debt Crisis

In 2011, Schweikert explained what would happen if the debt ceiling wasn’t raised and the government defaulted on its loans. He said interest rates would spike, the country’s good credit would be damaged, and a row of other dominoes would fall, culminating in a debt crisis. “I believe we get punished from both directions,” Schweikert said at the meeting. “If we all walk in and are

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good little soldiers and vote ‘yes,’ they’re going to punish us because we raised the debt ceiling — we didn’t scare the markets today, but you’re not taking your debt seriously. If we don’t do it, interest rates start to explode.” [Washington Post, 4/19/11]

Criticized at Town Hall for Voting for Republican Budget that Would Gut Medicare

In 2011, Robert Howarth, a Republican-turned-Democrat in Arizona criticized Schweikert for his vote in favor of the House Republican budget plan. We don’t have to gut Medicare and go after the poor people on disability and Medicare,” Howarth said at a Schweikert’s town hall in Tempe, Ariz. “The millionaires and billionaires are not paying their fair share, like they used to,” he said. [Associated Press, 4/30/11]

Constituent was Shushed at Town Hall When She Voiced Her Concerns About His Plan to Cut Medicare Benefits

In 2011, Schweikert was criticized at his town hall in Tempe by his constituent Gina Gennaro for his proposal to reduce Medicare benefits. The New York Times reported that Gennaro found herself out numbered at the town hall meeting and “shushed when she tried to press her objections to Republican plans to remake Medicare.” Schweikert’s tea party activists sent out an email alert when he had a town hall that read “‘We need you to show up in force to make sure the far left doesn’t drown out the debate!” Gennaro, an artist and an independent said “‘It felt like it was me and a couple of others against everyone else.” She went on to say “Next time, I’m going to bring more people with me.” [Columnist, Marc Lacey, New York Times, 5/3/11]

Schweikert Vowed to Redouble Efforts to Sell Medicare Plan to American People After Loss in NY-26

Schweikert was asked, “Did this [the Republican loss in NY-26] give you second thoughts about the Ryan budget and the Medicare proposals contained in it?” Schweikert said “Oh, great question. Now, I may be on the other side, partially coming from Arizona, and I’ll make you the argument. I have a particularly smart district but I think it means we need to redouble our efforts, explaining why, explaining why the numbers are so horrifically bad and how we have to save Medicare because the Democrats proposal is just to let it go bankrupt.”

He went on to say that he would continue to aggressively make the case for the Republican Medicare plan. “Embrace it because it’s based on math, it’s based on the truth, and get out there and start explaining to the public why we’re doing what we’re doing, and why what we’re doing is the honorable thing.” [Top Line, ABC, 5/25/11]

Schweikert Said He Explained Republican Medicare Plan at Town Halls

Schweikert was asked if he believed the American people could be persuaded to endorse the Republican Medicare plan. He said yes, “Because ours is actually based on mathematical reality. Back home, in my district, Scottsdale and Tempe, we’ve now held about 14 public town halls and 20, 25 small groups that we go up and down the district, over and over and over, doing a budget presentation, but then we also do something that I love to focus on, and that’s political folklore.” [Top Line, ABC, 5/25/11]

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Introduced a Bill that Would Allow Companies to Have 1,000 Shareholders Instead of Only 5,000 as a Way to Spur Economic Development

In June 2011, according to The Wall Street Journal, Schweikert introduced a bill “that would amend the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, allowing private companies to have 1,000 shareholders instead of the current 500 before they’re required to publicly disclose their finances, often compelling them to go public.” Schweikert said the “goal is simple–to create another path for capitalizing a business instead of business owners going straight to venture capitalists or saying, let’s go public even though we’re not ready,” Schweikert said in an interview. “If a company is really growing, it could start to hit its 500-shareholder limit just from its employee base.” The current rule that allows only 500 investors before a company has to register as a public company has been in place for 77 years. [Wall Street Journal, 6/14/11]

Schweikert’s Legislation was Opposed by the President of the National Venture Capital Association Due to Negative Impact on Economy

In June 2011, according to The Wall Street Journal, there has been a missed reaction amongst members of the venture capital community, to Schweikert’s Bill. Institutional Venture Partners General Partner Norm Fogelsong, who supports the bill stated, “This higher limit makes the regulation more in line with the reality faced by rapidly growing innovative companies. The revision is most welcome by the entrepreneurial community.” On the other hand, Mark Heesen, president of the National Venture Capital Association, said that “an environment where companies remain private indefinitely will have long-term negative impact on the economy, innovation and the VC industry.” [Wall Street Journal, 6/14/11]

Bill Opened Door to Unregulated Secondary Markets and Excluded All But “Wealthiest” Investors

According to Money Morning, Schweikert’s bill would increase from 500 to 1,000 the number of investors a company could have before it was required to publish its financial information. The publication reported that the legislation would “simply delay companies from going public - thereby encouraging trading in secondary markets that are rife with questionable practices and shutting out the average investor.”

The legislation was dubbed the “Facebook rule,” because the company would be the primary beneficiary. Money Morning wrote “Delaying the IPOs of many companies - particularly tech companies that tend to be popular among private investors - would also drive up valuations in the secondary markets, which exclude all but the wealthiest ‘accredited’ investors.” The publication wrote that raising the shareholder threshold would foster unregulated investing. [Money Morning, 6/17/11]

Unregulated Secondary Markets Would Benefits from Legislation, Not Companies

According to Money Morning some private investment firms spoke out against Schweikert’s bill to would increase from 500 to 1,000 the number of investors a company could have before it was required to publish its financial information. Giles Somerville, managing partner with private investment firm Clearview Capital Partners wrote “Private companies that are successful and able to attract ‘real funding' never have an issue with the 500 shareholder rule hurting future funding efforts.” Somerville wrote that the legislation was for the benefit of secondary markets and that the extra money would not go to the company. “The extra liquidity that will be provided by an

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expansion of the allowable shareholder base will all go to shareholders, internal and external, not the actual company itself.”

Lawrence Aragon, an editor of Venture Capital Journal and Private Equity Week wrote that the legislation would encourage companies to stay on secondary exchanges to keep shareholders in the dark. He wrote that the average investor would be left out of early gains. [Money Morning, 6/17/11]

Supported Weakening Dodd-Frank; Goldman Sachs Had Lobbyists Advocating for Changes

In 2011, Schweikert sponsored bills to weaken Dodd-Frank. It was reported that Goldman Sachs was directly shaping policy with powerful lobbyists in Washington. It was reported David Schweikert sponsored bills to weaken Dodd-Frank. [Blog, BNET, 7/6/11]

Op-Ed: Thousands of Solar Jobs in Arizona Were Made Possible Through Loan Guarantees from the U.S. Department of Energy

In 2011, in an opinion piece, Amanda Ormond, a clean-energy consultant and former director of the state Energy Office called on Schweikert to save jobs generated by the solar industry. She argued that it was imperative that Schweikert support loan guarantees from the U.S. Department of Energy that help fund renewable energy sources, which was set to expire. Ormond reported that one of the largest solar-power plants in the world running near Gila Bend was set to generate enough energy to power 70,000 homes and employ hundreds of people. In 18 months alone in Arizona companies announced that they would invest more than $500 million and create 2,100 high-tech solar jobs. Ormond wrote “These jobs are made possible through loan guarantees from the U.S. Department of Energy for renewable-energy projects.” [Op-ed, Amanda Ormond, Former Director of the State Energy Office, Arizona Republic, 7/5/11]

Oil Got Tax Breaks While Solar lost Loan Guarantee Program

In 2011, in an opinion piece, Amanda Ormond, a clean-energy consultant and former director of the state Energy Office said when opponents of loan guarantees from the U.S. Department of Energy for renewable-energy projects said solar should play on a level field with oil that was a false argument. She wrote “Recent congressional hearings have documented the huge subsidies that fossil fuels are set to receive in the next 10 years: at least $21 billion. The playing field is far from level.” [Op-ed, Amanda Ormond, Former Director of the State Energy Office, Arizona Republic, 7/5/11]

Urged the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development to End the Loan Guarantee Program for Solar Industries

In 2011, Schweikert wrote letters that asked the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development to end the loan guarantees as Congress threatened to turn off power to the solar-energy industry. The loan guarantee program helped solar companies secure financing for their projects. A conservative House opposed to subsidizing solar power and clean energy.

If Congress would not renew the programs, all of the progress made by the solar industry could be derailed. The industry itself grew 67 percent in 2010, and employed about 100,000 people nationwide, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association. [Arizona Republic, 6/26/11]

Schweikert Wrote Letter Opposing Loan Program for Solar Industry

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In 2011, the Arizona Republic reported that Schweikert supported turning the power off to the solar industry in Arizona putting projects like a massive solar plant in Gila Bend in jeopardy. Schweikert wrote a letter to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development to end solar loan guarantees, the subcommittee approved cuts for the loan guarantees. A U.S. Treasury grant program that helped solar companies stay alive during the economic downturn was set to expire in December. An Energy Department loan-guarantee program that provided help to Gila Bend, which will be one of the world’s largest solar plants and the Agua Caliente power plant in Yuma County was slated to end in October.

The solar industry grew 67 percent last year - faster than any other U.S. industry – and employed 100,000 people nationwide according to the Solar Energy Industries Association. Analysts pointed out that the government subsidized oil, gas, coal and nuclear industries. [Arizona Republic, 6/26/11]

Choice

Said He Would Favor Budget Cuts Over Abortion Restrictions

When faced with the decision between restricting abortion or cutting spending Schweikert said he opposes abortion, but would vote for a budget that lacked restrictions on federal funding for abortions such as Planned Parenthood because law already banned federal dollars from being used for most abortions. “If we’re staying with that current policy, I think we’d still be safe,” Schweikert said. “Because for me, it’s substantially about the fiscal position.” [Associated Press, 3/6/11]

Agriculture Issues

Voted to Cut Agricultural Subsidies; Said He Wouldn’t Lose Sleep Over Being Labeled Anti-Environment

In 2011, Environment and Energy Daily reported that Schweikert voted in favor of a bill to cap agricultural subsidies at $250,000, which was rejected by the house. He got a 4 percent from an environmental group, but said he wouldn’t lose sleep over it.

“The debt is now the single biggest issue,” Schweikert said. “If you care about certain social programs, certain environmental programs, you need to step up, come up to the plate and start saying we’ve got to deal with the crazy spending because when we become Greece, when we become Argentina of the last decade, how many environmental programs is there going to be even a dollar for? It is time for fiscal reality.”

“The fact of the matter is if I spent my life here concerned about the distortions from every individual rating group and every group that wants money, wants something, we might as well decide we don’t want to save our country,” he said. “There are lots of special interest groups in my district that I actually like their causes and I’m not going to give them money because we’re broke.” [Environment and Energy Daily, 3/4/11]

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Budget Issues

Said He Believed Paul Ryan and Republican Budget Plan Would “Save this Country”

Schweikert was asked “you think Paul Ryan is the man to lead the charge, you want to see him out there more talking about these issues and making the case” He said “I want to see us all out there making the case. There’s political reality when you’re telling the truth and you figure for twenty, thirty years, the American people have functionally not been told the truth by Washington. And if Washington DC continues to lie, we crash in debt, so maybe it’s time particularly my freshman class to take a little bit of a political risk, get out there in our communities, and explain why we’re doing what we’re doing, because it’s based in mathematical reality, and we’re going to save this country.” [Top Line, ABC, 5/25/11]

Called a Default Denier

“The one acting like his hair is on fire is Mr. Geithner,” said Rep. David Schweikert (R-Ariz.). “It’s absolutely silly. We have plenty of cash flow to pay debt, which means I’m trying to figure out how credibly the administration can keep using that language.” [Politico, 5/17/11]

Expressed Doubt that Debt Ceiling Needed to be Raised

In 2011, Politico called Schweikert a default denier when it came to the vote on the debt limit. “The one acting like his hair is on fire is Mr. Geithner,” said Schweikert. “It’s absolutely silly. We have plenty of cash flow to pay debt, which means I’m trying to figure out how credibly the administration can keep using that language.” [Politico, 5/17/11]

Expressed Concern About Nations Debt Through Slides

In 2011, it was reported that Schweikert was a numbers guy and had charts to illustrate his concerns about the budget deficit. “Rep. David Schweikert (R-Ariz.) isn’t just a fan of charts and slides. He’s a huge fan. During a speech on the floor…about the nation’s fiscal situation, Schweikert referenced his visual aids a handful of times to bring home his point that the nation’s financial future is not looking so hot. Schweikert urged everyone to see more of his charts and slides on his House website.” [The Hill, 5/16/11]

Said Anyone Talking About Debt and Defaulting Wasn’t Telling Truth

On the debt ceiling Schweikert said anyone using the word default wasn’t telling the truth. He said there was a lot of cash flow to cover the interest. He said the 1/3 of government spending that is financed for borrowing was the problem and there was not enough revenue coming in to cover the military and entitlements. [Barry Young, KFYI, Summary, 6/8/11]

Said People Were Lying that Ending Bush Tax Cuts, Oil Subsidies and Wars Would Solve Debt Crisis

Schweikert said congress members were lying by saying that taking away the tax breaks for big oil would solve the debt crisis. Schweikert said the wars, bush tax cuts and subsidies for big oil wouldn’t solve the problem. He said it would only take care of hours a day of borrowing. [Barry Young, KFYI, Summary, 6/8/11]

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Said Foreign Aid Would Not Change Budget Crisis

Schweikert said foreign aid would not change budget crisis. He said foreign aid should only go to democracies. [Barry Young, KFYI, Summary, 6/8/11]

Said Problem was Entitlements

He was asked where he would put his money and being late on debt. Schweikert said we have plenty of cash flow. The concern is as we continue to escalate the growth of the debt, it is entitlements. It’s not just the $14.2 trillion we are in debt today. It’s baby boomers. We have someone turning 65 every 7.6 seconds. He said that’s the crisis. He said you could deal with the debt we’re sitting on now. [Barry Young, KFYI, Summary, 6/8/11]

Advocated for Budget Cuts to Correspond With a Debt Limit Increase

In June 2011, in discussing the debt limit increase, Schweikert said, “What we’re asking the president and the Senate, and obviously our representatives to do, is something that almost has never been done before. And that’s actually cut spending and do what’s absolutely necessary to save us from this avalanche of debt that this country is dealing with.” He added “a clean debt ceiling as a first wanted, would, I believe, have been a bad, bad thing, because how do you tell the world we’re taking our debt seriously but now for Treasury to say ‘oh, we get this cash flow, but we can’t prioritize it to our coupons.’ It’s just borderline silly.” [CNBC, 6/15/11]

Said If Debt Ceiling was Raised Interest Rates May Increase Because Markets Don’t Believe America is Serious About Managing Debt

At a 2011 town hall, Schweikert was urged by Judy Lewis, a veterinarian from Scottsdale, Ariz. to cut spending. Schweikert said the debt ceiling was no greater a threat to the economy than is the failure to get deficit spending under control.

In an interview, Schweikert said he has talked with “market makers” who told him “we’re going to punish you” if Congress doesn’t make huge strides in reducing the deficit. “What if we just raise it,” he said of the debt ceiling, “and interest rates begin to go up because debt markets don’t believe we’re serious about the debt?” Schweikert likened a solution to “threading a needle,” and said he will take the political heat if he’s wrong. “But what if I’m not wrong?” he said. [Associated Press, 4/30/11]

Criticized at Town Hall for Voting for Republican Budget that Would Gut Medicare

In 2011, Robert Howarth, a Republican-turned-Democrat in Arizona criticized Schweikert for his vote in favor of the House Republican budget plan. We don’t have to gut Medicare and go after the poor people on disability and Medicare,” Howarth said at a Schweikert’s town hall in Tempe, Ariz. “The millionaires and billionaires are not paying their fair share, like they used to,” he said. [Associated Press, 4/30/11]

Faced Angry Constituents that Congress Wasn’t Acting Faster on Debt

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National Journal reported that Schweikert was among the House Republicans who “have fielded flak from conservative bloggers, demonstrators, or town hall hecklers upset that Congress isn’t acting faster to bring down the deficit.” [National Journal, 5/8/11]

Said Debt Ceiling Did Not Need to be Raised

In 2011, Schweikert said that the federal government had more than enough revenue to cover the national debt even if the debt ceiling was not raised. “For a number of the administration’s officials to run around like their hair is on fire lacks intellectual honesty,” Schweikert said. “We don’t want to be going into a decision-making environment where fear and propaganda about debt, and marketed fear is being used as a wedge for certain directions.” [World Daily Net, 4/30/11]

Showed a Willingness to Vote Against Debt Limit

Schweikert showed a willingness to vote against the debt limit. The East Valley Tribune reported “many Republicans have shown a willingness to vote against the debt limit, including Schweikert.” He said “We are buried in debt, absolutely buried in debt. We need to start telling our brothers and sisters, and the markets and our communities that we are going to step up and find someway out of this crushing burden we are putting on our kids and grandkids.” [East Valley Tribune, 4/26/11]

Desperately wanted to Vote Against Raising Debt Ceiling

In 2011, Schweikert held a town hall and flipped through charts showing the nations debt. Town Hall tea partiers were not happy that Schweikert considered raising the debt ceiling. The Washington Post reported “This is his dilemma: He knows Congress has little choice but to raise the amount of money the government can borrow to prevent the economic havoc sure to follow if the United States defaults on its loans. He also knows doing so is deeply unpopular — not only among his conservative base, but among some moderates and liberals, too.”

“I desperately want to vote ‘no,’ ” Schweikert said at the town hall. “I also desperately don’t want [the economy] to crash.” Schweikert said he would reluctantly raise the $14.3 trillion debt limit if long-term debt reducing measures were put in place. [Washington Post, 4/19/11]

Knew Failing to Raise Debt Ceiling Could Result in Debt Crisis

In 2011, Schweikert explained what would happen if the debt ceiling wasn’t raised and the government defaulted on its loans. He said interest rates would spike, the country’s good credit would be damaged, and a row of other dominoes would fall, culminating in a debt crisis. “I believe we get punished from both directions,” Schweikert said at the meeting. “If we all walk in and are good little soldiers and vote ‘yes,’ they’re going to punish us because we raised the debt ceiling — we didn’t scare the markets today, but you’re not taking your debt seriously. If we don’t do it, interest rates start to explode.” [Washington Post, 4/19/11]

Said He Would Not Raise Debt Limit Unless there were Game Changing Budgetary Reforms

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In 2011, Schweikert explained that he would not raised the debt limit unless there were “substantial game-changers” by way of spending caps and budgetary reforms. He won his race in 2010 in part by criticizing his opponent for backing the $787 billion stimulus.

At the town hall, Schweikert said “This is about the survival of your republic right now.” Schweikert repeatedly referred to himself as “one of the most conservative freshmen.” However, Schweikert also criticized the public for a lack of information on the debt. “It’s sort of government by folklore,” he said. “You get in front of these rooms, and they’re like, ‘Don’t vote for the debt ceiling!’” Schweikert hears that but isn’t so sure he has that luxury. “Isn’t that my job?” the congressman said in the interview. “Instead of just giving pabulum — that’s easy — the willingness to say ‘Here’s what I understand the truth to be’?” [Washington Post, 4/19/11]

Said U.S. Had Plenty of Income to Cover Debt Payment, Debt Ceiling Didn’t Need to be Raised

In April 2011, Schweikert told Fox News that he was using his town halls to assert that the debt ceiling did not need to be raised. He ran on a platform of less spending, critical of TARP. Schweikert said he was using his town halls to try to “chip away at the story that Secretary Geithner has been telling around the country, that the world comes to an end — which just isn’t true.”

“Just because you hit the debt ceiling doesn’t mean there isn’t enough income to cover your debt payment,” Schweikert said. “We have plenty of income.” [The Hill, 4/26/11]

Said Congress Moved at Snails Pace While Voting for Another Stopgap Budget Bill

In 2011, Schweikert supported another stopgap bill to keep the government funded through April 8th, while cutting $6 billion. He said Republican defections showed “frustrations.”

“You can tell, a lot of folks are getting frustrated at the pace,” he said. “A lot of us who are new here who want more good things to happen and realize that sometimes this place seems to move at a snail’s pace.” [The Hill, 3/15/11]

Ryan Budget was “Everything”

In 2011, Schweikert said the Ryan Budget was “everything.” House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan was expected to give Social Security a pass, while proposing to overhaul Medicare and Medicaid. “I wouldn’t be surprised if it says nothing about Social Security,” freshman Rep. David Schweikert (R-Ariz.) said. “The biggest contributors to the debt are the healthcare programs.”

Schweikert went on to say that the Ryan budget was more important than the current fight over 2011 spending. “That document is everything,” he said. [The Hill, 3/30/11]

Blamed Budget Issues on Senate and Said People “Fussed” About $2-billion a Week Cuts

In March 2011, Schweikert criticized for failing to come up with a budget agreement. “Think about February, we literally borrowed $8-billion a day, and yet we have people fussing at us over a $2-billion a week cut. We need America to put new batteries in their calculator and send those calculators to the Senate so we get some serious partners to work with us on this debt monster that’s coming at us,” said Schweikert.

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He went on went on to say “Much of our great frustration in the House is trying to figure out who is in charge of the U.S. Senate…Let’s think about this. We have done the continuing resolution until the end of the year. We’ve done a two-week, we’ve done a three-week. And we don’t seem to have a partner to work on this in the Senate,” he added. [Fox News, 3/27/11]

Said Time for GOP to Stop Giving in Despite Impending Government Shutdown

In April 2011, Schweikert said the continuing resolution debate was about financial issues. He said, “At some point, this really is about your country is on a precipice of financial disaster.”

Schweikert said he was sick of compromising, “I will tell you it’s time for our side to stop being the one to give in. We did the first continuing resolution to take us through the rest of the year. Then we did the two-week. Then we did the three-week. Then we did the set-up last Thursday.”

“At what point does the House stop being the one that does all the heavy lifting and we actually get some work product, some genuine work product out of the US Senate?”

He added, “I think the public is tired of Washington looking in the camera and lying to them about what’s going on. It’s time we toughen up. It’s time we do what’s necessary and this little game of incremental, ‘Oh we’ll come to an agreement, oh by the way, we’re still awash in an avalanche of debt.’ It has to come to an end.” [The Note, ABC, 4/7/11]

Proposed Forgotten Funds Act to Put Money in Abandoned Federal Accounts in Deficit Reduction

In 2011, Schweikert proposed the Forgotten Funds Act to put $82.4 billion in abandoned accounts in the federal government into deficit reduction. The columnist touted his idea, but criticized the $61 billion budget reduction Republicans got in contrast to the $100 billion in cuts they promised. [Columnist, Deroy Murdock, News Chief, 4/11/11]

Said He Wouldn’t Raise the Debt Limit

In 2011, Schweikert said the continuing resolution budget negotiations were a warm-up for the fight on raising the nation’s debt limit. He said he wouldn’t vote to raise the debt limit without balancing the budget. [ktar.com, 4/11/11]

Said Boehner Did a Great Job Getting Cuts During CR Negotiations

In 2011, Schweikert said the budget was being turned into a sport. He touted Boehner’s success on the continuing resolution budget negotiations. “I actually despise talking about winners and losers because you’re turning it then into some type of sporting match. What’s actually on the line right now is the survival of your republic.”

Schweikert said Boehner did a good job getting cuts. “Think about that. You had Boehner there and, on the other side of the table, would be (Senate Democratic Leader) Harry Reid, President Obama and Vice President Biden. And that’s how the negotiations were. It really was one against three.” [ktar.com, 4/11/11]

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Said Shutdown Would Have Varying Effects on People; Said Debate was About Dollar Amount

In April 2011, Schweikert was asked about the likelihood of a shutdown. He said I am genuinely surprised we are at this point. I believe the debate is all about the dollar amount, not abortion. We need the dollar amount because we are staring down a 2012 budget, which is going to need trillions in changes. $33 billion is not good enough, if we are serious about avoiding crushing debt, we have a moral obligation. No Republicans want a shut-down. At some point we feel like we are doing all of the heavy lifting on the House side. Hopefully the Senate will show up with their calculators.

A shutdown partially matters on your relationship with the federal government. If you are a government employee it will effect you a lot. It will effect people trying to get their passports. People are much more effected by their local government. [RTTNews, Summary, 4/7/11]

Introduced Balanced Budget Amendment

In February 2011, Schweikert introduced a Balanced Budget Amendment to the United States Constitution. The amendment required Congress to balance its budget every year and capped spending.

Three key provisions included requiring a balanced budget for each fiscal year, making sure federal spending was no more than 18 percent of GDP and requiring a two-thirds vote in both Houses of Congress in order to increase taxes, raise the debt ceiling, or run a specific deficit in a particular year. [Official Press Release, David Schweikert, 2/8/11]

Pledged $100 Billion in Cuts

Schweikert pledged $100 billion in cuts “We promised the American people $100 billion in cuts and that is what we need to give them,”

He went on to say, “We are devastatingly broke and the only thing that will get us back on the track to fiscal responsibility and economic prosperity is if we cut more and spend less.” [Washington Times, 2/10/11]

In February 2011, interview at CPAC, Schweikert said, “I actually believe, especially with the freshman class, we are unified that $100 billion dollars was sort of the opening bid in getting going.” [Human Events, 2/11/11]

Said He Would Cut Billions in Wasteful Washington Spending

In February 2011, Schweikert said the President’s budget was dangerous and he and Republicans would continue to cut wasteful spending.

“House Republicans will continue to address these difficult issues, cut billions in wasteful Washington spending and get Americans back to work.” [Official Press Release, David Schweikert, 2/14/11]

Was Prepared to Accept Short-Term Spending Bill to Avoid Government Shutdown

In February 2011, Schweikert said he was hopeful the Senate would support the House Republican plan to cut spending by $61.5 billion.

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Schweikert said he was prepared to accept a short-term spending bill to avoid a government shutdown. “I’d hate to see a world in which we’re negotiating with ourselves already,” he said. [Congressional Quarterly Today, 2/25/11]

Said Tough Decisions were being Made on Budget

In February 2011, Schweikert said the tea party could help get out the message of fiscal responsibility “Look at the struggles our state Legislature is going through. We’re making really tough, tough decisions all around us.” [Arizona Republic, 2/25/11]

Said if He Voted to Raise Debt Ceiling there would be Substantial Budget Cuts

In February 2011, Schweikert argued with tea party supporters over the debt ceiling. He said, “We’re up against a wall. They have set us up in a very ugly position. When we say hell no — BOOM! we get buried, absolutely buried.”

He went on to say “We need to be really, really, really smart. They don’t get my vote (to raise the cap) unless they get some really substantial cuts (in federal spending).” [Associated Press, 2/28/11]

Said a Government Shutdown was Not Out of the Question

In February 2011, Schweikert said government shutdown was not out of the question, “We have to see where the Senate comes back. A shutdown is not out of the question.” [New York Times, 2/28/11]

Was Co-Chair of Pass the Balanced Budget Amendment Group

In February 2011, Schweikert issued a press release praising the passage of the continuing resolution. “Very few times in our country’s history has the call for leadership been more clear or our reckless fiscal path been more serious. However, we don’t stop here. H.R. 1 is only the first step in getting our financial house in order.” [Rep. David Schweikert, press release, 2/19/11]

Cut without Regards to Specifics

Schweikert said he cut without regards to specifics in the February 2011 continuing resolution debate, “I have spent very little time on the line items.”

Schweikert said he would tell his district the story of shared sacrifice, “We have to tell the story of a shared sacrifice.” [International Herald Tribune, 2/18/11]

Called the Stimulus a Failure and Said He Would Honor Pledge to Cut Over $100 Billion

In February 2011, Schweikert issued a press release calling the stimulus a failure.

“House Republicans will honor our pledge this week by cutting more than $100 billion of wasteful spending. We will continue to find ways to save taxpayers money and get Americans back to work.” [Rep. David Schweikert, press release, 2/17/11]

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Accused the President of Avoiding Tough Decisions on Entitlements

In February 2011, Schweikert accused President Obama of steering clear of tough decisions on spending and entitlements. [Rep. Schweikert, press release, 2/15/11]

Called for a Balanced Budget

In February 2011, Schweikert called for a balanced budget. “House Republicans are serious about getting our fiscal house in order. One of the first votes we took at the beginning of the 112th Congress was to cut our own salaries and decrease our budgets by 5 percent. And this week, we will make good on our promise to cut $100 billion of wasteful Washington spending.” [Rep. Schweikert, press release, 2/15/11]

Introduced Plan to Prohibit Debt Default in Event Debt Ceiling Not Raised

Schweikert introduced a plan that would make sure debt was not defaulted on in the event that a vote to raise the debt ceiling did not pass.

“In the event that we reach the debt ceiling, this bill would prohibit a default on our debt, which would rattle already shaky credit markets and spook investors,” Schweikert said. [Reuters, 2/17/11]

Threatened Not to Raise Debt Ceiling

In March 2011, Schweikert joined other members of his party in criticizing both Ben Bernanke, and congressional action for the lack of spending cuts. He said that unless those who want cuts threaten not to raise the debt ceiling, there would be little chance of getting the cuts, “this body doesn’t move unless there’s a crisis.” [CNN Money, 03/02/11]

Stressed Support for Full Faith and Credit Bill – Pay China First

In 2011, Schweikert stressed the importance of the Full Faith and Credit bill that he was working with Senator Pat Toomey on. He said if we borrowed from Chinese we needed to pay them back. [Sonoran News, 3/2/11]

Said Shutdown wasn’t Out of the Question

Schweikert said a shutdown was not out of the question. “It’s unknowable,” said Schweikert, “We have to see where the Senate comes back. A shutdown is not out of the question.” [New York Times, 3/1/11]

Claimed Balanced Budget Would Require Cutting Defense, Non-Defense, Discretionary Spending and $100 Billion in Entitlements

Schweikert unveiled his own budget presentation. He said few people understood the severity of the budget. He claimed “In order to balance the budget, we would need to nearly double current revenues. Short of that, we would need to cut every single dollar of defense, non-defense discretionary spending, and an additional $100 billion in entitlements just to stay solvent.” [Rep. Schweikert, press release, 3/1/11]

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Willing to Cut Budget $4 Billion Every Few Weeks

Schweikert said if a continuing resolution wasn’t approved by the Senate he was willing to continue to chip away at it $4 billion at a time.

He said, “Yeah, it’s not a great way to run a government. It’s absolutely silly. Particularly, you know, when you consider products and services that are purchased through the government, telling people it’s only a two-week contract. But if the Senate can’t get their act together, we just keep doing what we have to do.” [National Public Radio, 3/2/11]

Opposed Raising Debt Limit Unless “Systematic Changes” to Spending Were Made

In 2011, Schweikert said he would not vote to raise the debt ceiling unless “systematic changes” were made to Congressional spending.

“I’m being asked to pay off the credit card for the crazy spending from this president and the House of Democrats,” he said. “The problem is they’ve already spent the money. The bill is now coming due. So for someone like myself, you know, you look your constituents in the eyes and say, I cannot vote for this debt ceiling unless we have substantial, you know, systematic changes in spending.” [The Hill, 1/17/11]

Schweikert Threatened to Vote Against Raising Debt Ceiling

During an interview with NPR, Schweikert voiced his opposition to raising the debt ceiling.

“Not to scare people, [but] if there aren’t substantive changes in both the process and what we’re budgeting to, from almost a moral standpoint, I need to go out there and vote no,” he said. [NPR, 1/05/11]

Top White House Economic Adviser: Not Raising Debt Ceiling Would Be “Catastrophic”

During an interview with ABC’s “This Week,” top White House economic advisor Austan Goolsbee said that congressional failure to rise the nation’s debt limit early this year would be “catastrophic.”

“The impact on the economy would be catastrophic. I mean, that would be a worse financial economic crisis than anything we saw in 2008…If we get to the point where you’ve damaged the full faith and credit of the United States, that would be the first default in history caused purely by insanity,” he said. [The Hill, 1/02/11]

Business and Consumer Issues

Introduced a Bill that Would Allow Companies to Have 1,000 Shareholders Instead of Only 5,000 as a Way to Spur Economic Development

In June 2011, according to The Wall Street Journal, Schweikert introduced a bill “that would amend the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, allowing private companies to have 1,000 shareholders instead of the current 500 before they’re required to publicly disclose their finances, often compelling them to go public.” Schweikert said the “goal is simple–to create another path for capitalizing a business instead of

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business owners going straight to venture capitalists or saying, let’s go public even though we’re not ready,” Schweikert said in an interview. “If a company is really growing, it could start to hit its 500-shareholder limit just from its employee base.” The current rule that allows only 500 investors before a company has to register as a public company has been in place for 77 years. [Wall Street Journal, 6/14/11]

Schweikert’s Legislation was Opposed by the President of the National Venture Capital Association Due to Negative Impact on Economy

In June 2011, according to The Wall Street Journal, there has been a missed reaction amongst members of the venture capital community, to Schweikert’s Bill. Institutional Venture Partners General Partner Norm Fogelsong, who supports the bill stated, “This higher limit makes the regulation more in line with the reality faced by rapidly growing innovative companies. The revision is most welcome by the entrepreneurial community.” On the other hand, Mark Heesen, president of the National Venture Capital Association, said that “an environment where companies remain private indefinitely will have long-term negative impact on the economy, innovation and the VC industry.” [Wall Street Journal, 6/14/11]

Said Bill Had Bipartisan Support According to Schweikert; SEC Investigated Facebook Over Reporting Requirements

In June 2011, according to the New York Post, Schweikert “said he sees bipartisan support for his multi-pronged approach to freeing up businesses’ access to money and loosening rules that force them to disclose previously private financial information before they are ready -- a requirement that often moves companies to go public. While the legislation is designed to remedy broad capital-raising challenges facing small- to medium-sized businesses across all sectors, it would dramatically free up the hand of Silicon Valley and the tech sector.” The tech start-ups from Schweikert’s district Go Daddy and LifeLock first raised some of the concerns that spurred his interest, according to his office.

The New York Post reported, “The SEC began looking into the 500-shareholder rule with regard to  Facebook   in January after  Goldman Sachs   offered clients a means to invest in the social network. Regulators were concerned the pooled investment could be used to bypass the shareholder limit. Since then the SEC has considered adjusting the threshold rules that force companies to disclose the data.” [New York Post, 6/15/11]

Campaign Finance Issues

Fundraised Off of His Votes for Spending Cuts

In March 2011, Schweikert fundraise off his support for government spending cuts. He asked for $100 contributions saying people were “investing in honesty.”

“Quite frankly, the cuts aren’t coming fast enough, but we are keeping up the pressure!” Schweikert wrote. “We can keep that fight going, we are driving the agenda and listening to you.”

“When we continue to cut government, we win,” the Republican wrote in his appeal for campaign donations. [The Hill, 3/14/11]

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Had 2010 Campaign Debt

In February 2011, Schweikert had $523,000 in debt, $23,000 was owed to a vendor and the rest was loans to himself. [The Hill, 2/6/11]

Consumer Issues

Crime & Public Safety Issues

Defended “Toughest Sheriff in the West,” Sheriff Joe Arpaio

Schweikert defended Sheriff Joe Arpaio in a February 2011 interview. Arpaio was an infamous sheriff known for housing inmates in tents to cut costs, chaining them together and keeping them segregated.

When asked about his opinion of Arpaio he said, “You mean the gentleman who lives down the street from me? He and his organization the people around him are a lot smarter and better at their jobs than a lot of folks give him credit for. Do not underestimate them, they know what they are doing. Often you and I get caught up in what is obviously a press opportunity, but they know perfectly well what they’re organizing, they know perfectly well what they do.” [azcentral.com, 2/4/09; Politico, 2/2/11]

Economic and Financial Issues

Said it was Necessary to Raise Debt Ceiling

In 2011, Schweikert said he got booed by a tea party crowd when he talked about the need to raise the debt ceiling. “I think there will be lots and lots and lots of political theater . . . and right at the end, we will come to some kind of agreement that will hopefully help save the republic,” said Schweikert, who serves on the House Financial Services Committee, which oversees the Treasury. “But there are a lot of us who are willing to be really tough on this one.” [Arizona Republic, 4/20/11]

Backed Legislation to Reduce Congressional Salaries by 5%

In 2011, Schweikert wrote an op-ed backing legislation to reduce Congressional salaries by 5 percent. Schweikert and Kurt Schrader wrote “In January, the House took an important step by reducing our congressional office budgets by 5 percent, returning them to 2008 levels. Today, we can send another powerful message to the American people by reducing our own salaries by 5 percent.” The legislation was originally introduced by Rep. Giffords. [Op-ed, Kurt Schrader & David Schweikert, Politico, 4/15/11]

Raised $24,000 from PACs to Pay off Debt; Raised only $24,466

Schweikert raised $24,466, and $24,000 came from PACs and went to pay off debt. The PACs that donated were College of American Pathologists, AFLAC PAC, Honeywell International

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PAC, Freeport-McMoRan Cooper & Gold, Wells Fargo & Co Employee PAC and CVS/Caremark PAC. [David Schweikert for Congress, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11]

AZ-05: David Schweikert for Congress April Quarterly Report Analysis

David Schweikert for Congress April Quarterly Report AnalysisTotal Raised: $24,466Raised from PACs: $24,000Cash on Hand: $36,851Debt: $523,000[David Schweikert for Congress, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11]

Said He Questioned Americans Reading Habits of the Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission Report; Said Problem was Price of Risk

During a February 2011 hearing on the Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission Report Schweikert said “the rumor has it you may have almost a best seller, though now I’m really questioning Americans’ reading habits…Price of money, price of risk. Isn’t the ultimate failure we’ve seen up and down the system, that whether it be through regulation, whether it be through the incentives, whether the way it’s been done, we are failing to price risk. And because of that, we’re now trying to regulate mechanics to create risk pricing. And those who have incentives are always going to find a way around that.” [House Committee on Financial Services, 2/17/11]

Announced Intel was Building Chip Plant in District

In February 2011, Schweikert said the news that Intel would build a $5 billion chip plant in Chandler was good for the district and putting Americans back to work. [Rep. David Schweikert, press release, 2/18/11]

Co-Sponsored Legislation to Mandate Government Payment of Interest on Debt

In January 2011, Schweikert co-sponsored legislation mandating that the government pay interest first on the debt if the $14.3 trillion ceiling is reached.

“We must keep good on our obligation to pay off our debt, protect taxpayers, grow our economy, and stop the out-of-control spending that got us here in the first place,” Representative David Schweikert, a Republican co-sponsor of the effort, said. [Reuters, 1/26/11]

In January 2011, David Schweikert co-sponsored H.R.421 to require the government to prioritize paying down the debt if the debt limit was reached. The legislation would mandate that the government pay the interest on its debt before other federal spending if America reaches the $14.3 trillion ceiling. The bill made no exception for Social Security, Medicare or national defense spending. [H.R.421, 1/25/11; Reuters, 1/26/11]

Advocated for Across-the-Board Cuts in Government

In January 2011, Schweikert said he would push for spending cuts in entitlements.

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He said, “I would never consider voting to raise the debt ceiling,” and went on to say “unless I knew in advance that there were going to be major across-the-board cuts in spending and entitlements would be put on the table. And I plan to try to get some reduced spending for certain things in the Continuing Resolution to make sure it happens.” [Human Events Online, 1/29/11]

Education Issues

Energy Issues

Said Taking Tax Subsidies from Big Oil Would Not Solve Debt

Schweikert said tax subsidies would not solve budget crisis. He said “Over and over we see the talking heads around this place, I’m obviously one of them, who get up in front of cameras and spout off numbers and the fun is when you put up the slides behind it and say ‘ok, they just talked about why you should tax big oil, you realize that only buys you thirteen and a half hours of borrowing for an entire year. It’s not real, you’re being led down a path by political rhetoric and the public, my voters, deserve, they deserve, an honest discussion, based in facts, not political fantasy.” [Top Line, ABC, 5/25/11]

Criticized Democrats for Advocating to Take Tax Breaks Away from Big Oil to Help Deficit

Schweikert criticized Democrats for advocating to take away tax breaks from big oil. He said “My wife and I sat and watched some of the Sunday talk shows, and I saw some of the Democrats get up in front and say, ‘Well if we would just tax big oil or we do this,’ but they were talking about, like big oil, what is it, two billion dollars for an entire year?” [Top Line, ABC, 5/25/11]

Said America Needed to Ger Serious About Domestic Resources to Reduce Oil Prices

In 2011, Schweikert pumped gas and discussed gas prices. He advocated for more domestic drilling. “If we can communicate to the markets that the United States is now serious about using its own domestic resources and this means all types of energy, but particularly our fossil fuels, I believe we will start to see the reduction in oil prices,” said Schweikert. [My Fox Phoenix, 5/18/11]

Said He Would Not Vote Against Repealing Subsidies for Oil Companies

In 2011, Schweikert talked to his constituents at a gas station and said “The House has been pushing through three bills to expand drilling, to change the permitting process and to make sure we use our own resources here in the country.”

He called the push by Democrats to cut $2 billion in annual tax breaks for big oil companies “political theatre.” He said “It’s $2 billion a year, a lot of money, except for the fact that we borrow $4.7 a day.” When asked if he would have vote on repealing subsidies for oil companies he said “I probably would’ve voted no because you’ve got to stop rewarding political theatre and start telling the truth.” [KFYI, FOX News, 5/18/11]

Environmental Issues

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Ethics Issues

Schweikert Promised to Reject “Special Interests,” Invited Lobbyists to Debt Retirement Fundraiser

On his campaign website, Schweikert promised he would “be there to represent your interests, not big spending special interests. I will push for common sense reforms in Congress that will reduce the influence of lobbyists and special interests.”

Schweikert invited lobbyists to a debt-retirement fundraiser at the National Republican Campaign Committee in early December. The suggested contribution was $500 for an individual, $5,000 for a “benefactor.” [Chicago Tribune, 1/04/11]

Foreign Policy Issues – Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran, North Korea

One of Few Members to Vote against Patriot Act

In 2011, Schweikert said he voted against a 90-day extension of expiring provisions of the Patriot Act because there were no hearings held on it. The Arizona Republic wrote, “It’s hard to resist the suspicion that Schweikert was signaling some libertarian reservations about the governmental-snooping powers contained in the act.” [Robert Robb, columnist, Arizona Republic, 3/12/11]

Gay and Lesbian Issues

Gun Issues

Believed Gun Control Not an Issue After Arizona Shootings

When asked about gun control in Arizona in February 2011, Schweikert said, “In the last 15 years, we’ve had a huge expansion of concealed carry laws and rights for our citizens to protect themselves.”

“Our gun crimes, our accidental shootings, our violence has acually gone down dramatically in that 15 years. At some point, even liberal needs to look at the actual facts,” he said. [Human Events, 2/11/11]

Housing Issues

Capitol Times Took Issue with Ad and Said Schweikert’s Business Could Have Positive Effect on Neighborhoods

During the 2010 campaign, Rep. Mitchell called Schweikert a “vulture investor.” The website www.yourlosshisgain.com showed the actions of Schweikert profiting off of foreclosures.

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The Arizona Capitol Times reported that investors like Schweikert could benefit neighborhoods and the housing market. In addition, Jay Butler, a professor of realty studies at Arizona State University’s W.P. Carey School of Business said people who bought foreclosed homes could have a positive impact on neighborhoods. [Arizona Capitol Times, 10/22/10]

Employee Accused of Serving Eviction Notice to 12-Year Old; Employee Said Person was 20

During the 2010 campaign, Rep. Mitchell accused Schweikert of serving an eviction notice to a 12-year-old son of a foreclosure victim. Court documents showed that Maria Rodriguez said David Kruger, an employee of Schweikert’s company, Sheridan Equities Holdings, served the notice to her 12-year-old child.

Kruger said he served the notice to a 20 year old and said “Hell no” when asked if he served the notice to a 12-year-old. Schweikert said he doesn’t know whether his employee actually served an eviction notice to a child and hoped that wasn’t the case. [Arizona Capitol Times, 10/22/10]

Health Care Issues

Said He Leaned Toward Voting to Defund Health Care Overhaul and Planned Parenthood

In 2011, Schweikert a member of the Republican Study Committee said he was “leaning toward voting yes,” on blocking funding for the health care overhaul (PL 111-148, PL 111-152) and Planned Parenthood. [Congress.org, 3/15/11]

Said Fight Wasn’t Over on Repealing Healthcare Reform

In March 2011, Schweikert issued a statement saying healthcare reform created $670 billion in new taxes. He won his election with a strong anti-”Obamacare” message.

“House Republicans have pledged to replace this misguided legislation with common-sense solutions that reduce costs, make health care more accessible, and will not hurt our economy by destroying jobs,” Schweikert said. “Thanks to the voice of the American people, this fight is not yet over.” [The State Press, 3/23/11]

Praised Passage of the Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act 

In 2011, Schweikert the passage of H.R. 4 the Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act saying “House Republicans are serious about our commitment to producing economic growth, repealing Obama Care, and allowing the private sector to create jobs.” [Rep. Schweikert, press release, 3/3/11]

Would Accept Government Healthcare

In January 2011, Schweikert said he would accept government healthcare. [Rick Klein twitter, 1/19/11]

Schweikert Opposed 2010 Health Care Reform Because One Has the “Right As An American To Be Dumb”

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During an interview, Schweikert rejected the notion of the individual mandate, saying that it was unfair.

“[A]t some point, you have the right as an American to be dumb and not carry insurance,’ Schweikert said. “But you should also have the responsibility to deal with the cost of that action.”

When asked if a person should be denied care in the event of a medical emergency, Schweikert replied that they should be treated, but forced to pay the entirety of the costs.

“No, you provide the urgent care that’s needed, and then you also have to have that individual understand, because they chose not to participate in insurance, they chose not to be responsible, that they’re going to have a cost that’s going to follow them around, sometimes for years,” he said. [Parker-Spitzer television show, 1/03/11]

Immigration and Border Issues

Cosponsored Bill to Require One Parent to Be U.S. Citizen for Child to Obtain Citizenship

In 2011, Schweikert cosponsored the Birthright Citizenship Act of 2011 introduced by Rep. Steve King (R-Iowa). The bill would require at least one parent to be born in the U.S. or a legal permanent resident in order for a child to obtain citizenship. [NumbersUSA, 3/18/11]

Called Trip to the Border Eye-Opening; Said Less Border Security was Dangerous

In March 2011, Schweikert said a trip to the Arizona-Mexico border was eye-opening. “It’s a combination of learning what the facts are what’s folklore, what’s working and the disturbing reality of just how violent,” he said.

Schweikert said more border security was needed, “is a danger to all Arizona citizens.” [KVOA, 3/24/11]

Israel

Labor and Working Family Issues

Introduced Legislation to Exclude Employers From Reporting Rules; The Legislation had Bi-Partisan Support

In 2011, Representative David Schweikert introduced legislation to exclude employees and accredited investors from the rules, the ceiling at which was set at 500 investors. “The underlying premise is that there is lots of capital sitting on the sidelines and for some reason it’s not flowing into the market,” Schweikert said in an interview. “The current rules just seem to be out of date.” Schweikert’s co-sponsors included Democratic Representative Himes. [Bloomberg, 6/14/11]

Military Issues

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Touted Vote in Favor of Funding for Troops in Event of Shutdown

In April 2011, Schweikert touted his vote in favor of the House bill to cut $12 billion from the federal budget and ensure that the military was paid. He said “Today I voted to take our troops out of the front lines of Washington’s political battles, cut more spending, and keep the government open. Senate Democrats have yet to support this or any budget resolution and our Commander in Chief has already said he will veto it without explanation. However, I will never compromise or stand down when it comes to supporting the men and women who put their lives on the line to protect us.” [Rep. Schweikert, press release, 4/7/11]

Miscellaneous

Rescheduled Town Halls, but Had Time for Fundraiser

On May 14, Schweikert held a fundraiser with Steve Chucri, Jose Esparza, Bettina NavaBarry and Jody Aarons, Ann and Danny Seiden and The Honorable Laura Knaperek rather than holding a town hall.

In 2011, he came out with a press release stating, “due to a scheduling conflict, the Listening Sessions with David Schweikert planned for May 16th and May 19th, 2011, have been postponed to a future date to be determined.” [Rep. Schweikert, Fundraiser Invitation, 5/14/11; Rep. Schweikert, press release, 5/12/11]

National Security

Voted with Tea Party Movement In Opposition to Patriot Act

Schweikert voted with seven freshman lawmakers backed by the Tea Party movement to oppose the Patriot Act because it intrudes on people’s lives. [MSNBC, 2/9/11]

Other Social Issues

Fact-Check Showed Schweikert’s Statement That There was Someone Turning 65 Every 8 Seconds for the Next 18 Years was Accurate

In 2011, Schweikert said, “Now that we have Baby Boomers — someone turning 65 every 8 seconds for the next 18 years — the reality of it, this place, Washington, didn’t do their moral obligation of setting aside those resources.” The Arizona Republic called his statement accurate “Bottom line: Based on estimates from the Census Bureau, the Pew Research Center and the Social Security administration, about 79 million people will turn 65 between 2011 and 2029. If you divide 79 million by 6,940 days (19 years, including five leap years), you get about 11,383 people turning 65 per day, or about one every 7.6 seconds. Not everyone in the generation will live to his or her 65th birthday, but Schweikert’s estimate appears to be in line with current projections.” [Arizona Republic, 5/27/11]

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Personal

Liked to Cook Indian Food

In a February 2011 interview, Schweikert admitted Indian food was his specialty. “My specialty is actually Indian food,” he said. “The really fattening stuff I love, like korma.” Schweikert even admitted he keeps microwaved Indian meals in his office, “If you stick your head in my office I have them on my shelf.” [Politico, 2/2/11]

Schweikert Cited for “Internal Control Weaknesses” During Tenure as County Treasurer

During his time as the Maricopa County Treasurer for 2004-2007, Schweikert was cited for “internal control weaknesses” regarding management of lines of credit, investment management, human resource management, account transaction information and use of information technology. Schweikert’s office oversaw $2.4 billion in county investments.

In addition, the audit found that Schweikert’s office had not documented sufficiently his day-to-day investment procedures and had failed to conduct rigorous background checks on staff managing the county’s investment portfolio. [The Hill, 12/27/10]

Political Issues

Raised $191,000 in First Three Months of 2011

In 2011, Schweikert raised $191,000 in the first three months of 2011. The Arizona Republic reported that this made him “among the more prolific fundraisers in Arizona’s congressional delegation, according to reports with the Federal Election Commission.” [Arizona Republic, 4/23/11]

FEC Voted on Whether Negative Mailer Violated Law Because it Didn’t Clearly Identify That He Paid for It

During the 2010 election Schweikert put out a negative campaign mailer that did not clearly identify that he paid for it. Three Democratic commissioners voted that the mailer was illegal saying the public “has a right to know who is responsible for such advertisements.” [Washington Post, 3/28/11]

Said the Left Lived in a Parallel Universe

During a February 2011, interview at CPAC, Schweikert said, “The left, it’s almost like a religion that, god forbid, something happened that challenges their version of reality. They live in a parallel universe.” Schweikert was being asked about the left’s reaction to the Arizona shootings. [Human Events, 2/11/11]

Said Republican Leadership “Letting” Members Come to Own Conclusions

In February 2011, Schweikert called the Republican leadership a service organization and said on the almost 600 amendments members were allowed to make out decisions.

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“There is a certain theory out there [that] I’m picking up from leadership, that if we give enough information, we’ll see we’re going in the right direction - instead of them telling us, they’re letting us come to that conclusion,” Schweikert said. [Politico.com, 2/17/11]

Was Endorsed By Liberty Central – a Tea Party Group Headed By Lobbyist Wife of Clarence Thomas

Schweikert was endorsed by tea party group Liberty Central and was surprised to learn that Clarence Thomas’ wife, who headed the group, had become a lobbyist.

“This is the spouse of Justice Thomas?” he said, “No, I’ve never met her. It’s not something I’ve heard about. And I hang out with a lot of freshman.” [Politico, 2/4/11]

Had Local Police at Events

When Schweikert had scheduled public appearances he notified local police. [FOX Phoenix, 2/2/11]

Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid

Said He Believed Paul Ryan and Republican Budget Plan Would “Save this Country”

Schweikert was asked “you think Paul Ryan is the man to lead the charge, you want to see him out there more talking about these issues and making the case” He said “I want to see us all out there making the case. There’s political reality when you’re telling the truth and you figure for twenty, thirty years, the American people have functionally not been told the truth by Washington. And if Washington DC continues to lie, we crash in debt, so maybe it’s time particularly my freshman class to take a little bit of a political risk, get out there in our communities, and explain why we’re doing what we’re doing, because it’s based in mathematical reality, and we’re going to save this country.” [Top Line, ABC, 5/25/11]

Said Jobs Couldn’t Be Created Unless Medicare was Reformed

Schweikert was asked, “There are some Republicans out there though Congressman who are saying that the real issue for voters right now is jobs and the economy and any time that Republicans are spending having to explain Medicare means it’s another minute you’re not talking about jobs. What do you say to that?” He said, “They’re politically, absolutely right. But it all comes together, you don’t create jobs, you don’t have investment until the markets and those who hold the capital to do those investments have some sense that we’re going to bend this debt curve, that we’re going to do and adopt those policies that are necessary to grow this economy. And it all comes together, you adopt regulatory policies, you adopt tax policies, but you also adopt a future for these entitlements where they have a future and you bring that together and that creates economic growth.” [Top Line, ABC, 5/25/11]

Said He Backed Republican Medicare Plan Because He was Saving the Republic

When asked if he was concerned that the Republican Medicare plan he backed could hurt him in the next election he said “I don’t think so, because if you think through particularly a national political cycle there’s going to be times when we’re getting just beaten up, beaten up, beaten up,

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but we’re also being beaten up by lies. What happens when the American people start to understand what we’re doing is the saving of the Republic.” [Top Line, ABC, 5/25/11]

Said He Explained Republican Medicare Plan at Town Halls

Schweikert was asked if he believed the American people could be persuaded to endorse the Republican Medicare plan. He said yes, “Because ours is actually based on mathematical reality. Back home, in my district, Scottsdale and Tempe, we’ve now held about 14 public town halls and 20, 25 small groups that we go up and down the district, over and over and over, doing a budget presentation, but then we also do something that I love to focus on, and that’s political folklore.” [Top Line, ABC, 5/25/11]

Criticized at Town Hall for Voting for Republican Budget that Would Gut Medicare

In 2011, Robert Howarth, a Republican-turned-Democrat in Arizona criticized Schweikert for his vote in favor of the House Republican budget plan. We don’t have to gut Medicare and go after the poor people on disability and Medicare,” Howarth said at a Schweikert’s town hall in Tempe, Ariz. “The millionaires and billionaires are not paying their fair share, like they used to,” he said. [Associated Press, 4/30/11]

Constituent was Shushed at Town Hall When She Voiced Her Concerns About His Plan to Cut Medicare Benefits

In 2011, Schweikert was criticized at his town hall in Tempe by his constituent Gina Gennaro for his proposal to reduce Medicare benefits. The New York Times reported that Gennaro found herself out numbered at the town hall meeting and “shushed when she tried to press her objections to Republican plans to remake Medicare.” Schweikert’s tea party activists sent out an email alert when he had a town hall that read “‘We need you to show up in force to make sure the far left doesn’t drown out the debate!” Gennaro, an artist and an independent said “‘It felt like it was me and a couple of others against everyone else.” She went on to say “Next time, I’m going to bring more people with me.” [Columnist, Marc Lacey, New York Times, 5/3/11]

Vowed to Redouble Efforts to Sell Medicare Plan to American People After Loss in NY-26

Schweikert was asked, “Did this [the Republican loss in NY-26] give you second thoughts about the Ryan budget and the Medicare proposals contained in it?” Schweikert said “Oh, great question. Now, I may be on the other side, partially coming from Arizona, and I’ll make you the argument. I have a particularly smart district but I think it means we need to redouble our efforts, explaining why, explaining why the numbers are so horrifically bad and how we have to save Medicare because the Democrats proposal is just to let it go bankrupt.”

He went on to say that he would continue to aggressively make the case for the Republican Medicare plan. “Embrace it because it’s based on math, it’s based on the truth, and get out there and start explaining to the public why we’re doing what we’re doing, and why what we’re doing is the honorable thing.” [Top Line, ABC, 5/25/11]

Said Medicare was on Trajectory of Insolvency Due to Health Care Reform

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In 2011, the Washington Post reported that Medicare funds would be depleted in 13 years. Schweikert said that the reason for the “sooner-than-expected insolvency date is due to the failed economic policies of the Obama Administration and its government takeover of health-care.” [Washington Post, 5/13/11]

Said Social Security was Easy to Fix; Discussed Privatizing

Said Social Security was the easy one to fix. He agreed that people could be bought out. He said some people could decide to invest on their own. [Barry Young, KFYI, Summary, 1:05: 6/8/11]

Said He Voted for the Ryan Budget to Show Investors He was Serious About a Balanced Budget

In 2011, Schweikert addressed the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry about government debt. Schweikert said the deficit was “much worse” than he thought. Schweikert voted for the Ryan budget which “would also transform Medicaid into a program that gives block grants to states and turn Medicare into a voucher system. It would also lower the corporate tax rate to 25 percent.” Schweikert said he voted for the Ryan budget because it told investors that the government was serious about a balanced budget. [East Valley Tribune, 4/26/11]

Left Door Open to Cutting Social Security, Medicare and Defense

In an interview Schweikert said, “It’s just the beginning, but we’re are very quickly going to have to have the American people join us in a conversation saying, look, Social Security, Medicare, Defense, everything we spend money on and then our total revenues, they’re way out of whack. We’ve got to figure out a way to put this back in the box.” [Human Events Online, 2/11/11]

Stem Cells

Tax Issues

Claimed Getting Rid of Bush Tax Cuts Would Not Solve Budget Deficit

Schweikert was asked “One other quick thing though about mathematical reality, what Democrats and a lot of other folks are saying is you’ve got to put taxes on the table, tax increases, if we’re talking about really cutting the deficit, what do you say to that?” He said “Well, once again, had a discussion with one of my Democratic friends here on the floor last week, and she was basically saying ‘well if we didn’t have those Bush tax cut extensions,’ and I walked her through the numbers saying ‘ok if it wasn’t just for the rich but for everyone, the entire tax extension did not exist,’ you buy 2.4 days worth of borrowing. Ok, what would you like to do with the other 300 hundred and some days a year.” [Top Line, ABC, 5/25/11]

Voted Against FY11 Continuing Resolution Because It Did Not Achieve $100 Billion in Reductions

In 2011, Schweikert voted against the FY2011 continuing resolution because “These $39 billion in spending cuts do not bring us close enough to the fiscal responsibility we need to get our economy back on the path to prosperity.” [Rep. Schweikert, press release, 4/14/11]

Headline: “Schweikert Says Raising Taxes on Richest Is ‘Nonstarter’”

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In April 2011, Schweikert Talked about deficit-reduction negotiations and raising the federal debt ceiling. [Bloomberg, 4/14/11]

FairTax.org: Schweikert Supported the FairTax; Flat Tax Would Mean Tax Hike for Most

According to Americans for Fair Taxation, the group that is backing the effort to impose a Fair Tax, Schweikert supported the Fair Tax. [fairtax.org, News & Developments]

Schweikert Called a “FairTax Supporter”

On their website, Americans for Fair Taxation called Schweikert a “FairTax supporter.” [fairtax.org, Hall of Shame]

Headline: “Flat Tax to Hike Taxes for Most”

In 2011, a Senate Panel voted in favor of a flat tax. The plan would have meant lower bills for just 13 percent of Arizonans and higher taxes for everyone else. The plan would also eliminate all deductions. Republicans called the legislation an issue of fairness. Democrats pointed out the effect of the legislation would be to shift the tax burden to those people with lower incomes, in Arizona everyone making under $100,000 would pay more. [Arizona Daily Sun, 3/25/11]

Major Republican Donor Testified before Financial Services Committee

In March 2011, Lewis E. Lehrman was invited to testify before the subcommittee on Domestic Monetary Policy & Technology. [Subcommittee witness list, accessed 3/16/11]

… Which Included Members He Donated To

At the time that Lehrman was set to testify before the Domestic Monetary Policy subcommittee, the following members of that committee accepted donations from Lehrman:

Nan Hayworth – Accepted $1,500 on October 15, 2010 David Schweikert – Accepted $1,000 on September 30, 2010[fec.gov, accessed 3/16/11]

Criticized Obama’s Budget Plan for Increasing Deficit and Raising Taxes

In February 2011, Schweikert wrote that the Obama administration’s budget increased the deficit to the highest point since World War II.

He also criticized the tax increases on families, small businesses, and America’s energy producers. [Rep. Schweikert, press release, 2/15/11]

Tea Party

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Transportation Issues

Introduced Legislation to Allow Additional Flights to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

Schweikert introduced legislation to “allow for additional flights beyond the perimeter restriction applicable to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.” [Rep. Schweikert, press release, 3/1/11]

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