Rep.

Lou Barletta (PA-11)

Notable Headlines
Barletta, Marino praise House GOP budget plan [Times-Tribune, 4/07/11] Barletta against temporary bills: Freshman congressman wont support another short-term measure to keep govt running [The Times Leader, 03/29/11] Palin donates to Fitzpatrick, Barletta [Morning Call, 7/14/11] NEPA Tea Party Launches Robocalls Against Barletta, Marino [politicspa.com, 10/01/11] Barletta defends support of plans to slash federal spending [Times Leader, 7/29/11] Group protests Barletta outside event [citizensvoice.com, 08/09/11]

Editorials
Standard-Speaker/Times-Tribune: Barletta More Interested in Stopping Obama Than Creating Jobs In December 2011, the Standard-Speaker/Times-Tribune editorial board criticized Barletta for being a [member] of the hard-right House Republican freshman class that is as much interested in stymieing Obama as in helping to create jobs. The paper encouraged Barletta to support the presidents jobs plan for the good of his district, regardless of his partys politics. [Times-Tribune, 11/30/11; Standard Speaker,
12/4/11]

Patriot-News: Barletta Hypocritical on Disaster Funding In October 2011, a Patriot-News editorial criticized Barletta and other representatives for railing against government functions, but still seeking government aid in times of need. Barletta was elected with strong tea party support, but joined with 70 Democrats to ask for more FEMA funding because of the damage done in his district by Hurricane Irene. The editorial stated that, People will always disagree about the core functions of government. But heres one pretty good definition of a core function: something you would want for yourself or your loved ones. By that standard, lawmakers should stop being hypocritical and fund FEMA with no strings attached.
[Patriot-News, Editorial, 10/03/11]

Times-Tribune: NE Pennsylvania Choking on Barlettas Poison Pill In September 2011, the Times-Tribune published an editorial criticizing Barletta for supporting a House stopgap bill that provided $3.7 billion in disaster aid by cutting unrelated programs.

The board wrote that, Tying disaster relief to the demise of unrelated projects for which the House leadership has a philosophical dislike is bad enough. That Mr. Barletta would stand for it rather than standing up for the region is worse. [The Times-Tribune, Editorial, 09/24/11] Times-Leader: Barletta Should Keep His Promise on Town Halls In August 2011, the Times-Leader editorial board criticized Barletta for faulting an opponent with ending town halls while stopping town halls himself once he entered office. The Times-Leader wrote that, But Barletta cant have it both ways, chiding an election foe for ending town hall meets, then stopping them himself, for the same reason. Barletta made a promise. He should work harder to keep it, finding ways to hold town hall meetings that are open and productive. Because, quite simply, he said he would. [Times-Leader, 8/24/11]

Budget Issues
Barletta Letter to Editor: I Will Fight For Flood Relief In October 2011, Barletta wrote a letter to the editor of Citizens Voice promising to fight for federal dollars to aid in flood relief and for change in the way businesses get loans after disasters. Barletta expressed his distaste for providing flood relief in Pakistan, the country that harbored Osama bin Laden for years and in Japan. Regarding Japan, Barletta said, The fact that Japan has an unemployment rate less half of that in the U.S. raises the obvious question: why are we doing more to help Japan recover from its natural disasters than we are here at home? Regarding loans for businesses impacted by flood relief, Barletta said, With sky-high unemployment and a struggling economy, Northeastern Pennsylvania's small businesses already face an uphill battle. The federal government's role should be to ensure they aren't in an even deeper hole because of this natural disasters. [Citizens Voice, 10/06/11] Patriot-News: Barletta Hypocritical on Disaster Funding In October 2011, a Patriot-News editorial criticized Barletta and other representatives for railing against government functions, but still seeking government aid in times of need. Barletta was elected with strong tea party support, but joined with 70 Democrats to ask for more FEMA funding because of the damage done in his district by Hurricane Irene. The editorial stated that, People will always disagree about the core functions of government. But heres one pretty good definition of a core function: something you would want for yourself or your loved ones. By that standard, lawmakers should stop being hypocritical and fund FEMA with no strings attached.
[Patriot-News, Editorial, 10/03/11]

Times-Tribune: NE Pennsylvania Choking on Barlettas Poison Pill

In September 2011, the Times-Tribune published an editorial criticizing Barletta for supporting a House stopgap bill that provided $3.7 billion in disaster aid by cutting unrelated programs. The board wrote that, Tying disaster relief to the demise of unrelated projects for which the House leadership has a philosophical dislike is bad enough. That Mr. Barletta would stand for it rather than standing up for the region is worse. [The Times-Tribune, Editorial, 09/24/11] Voted Against GOP For More Disaster Aid In September 2011, Barletta voted against his party, joining House Democrats in voting down a funding bill because it did not provide enough funding for disaster victims. Barletta said that GOP leadership tried to persuade him to vote for the House bill which contained $3.6 billion in aid, as opposed to the $6.9 billion Senate bill. Following the vote, Barletta said, My mind was made up as long as they came up with the number...that was a sticking point for me. For me it was easy, as we speak right now people are home in my district with boots on and generators going as they're throwing away their life's belongings to the curb." [The
Morning Call, 09/21/11]

Accused Obama of Playing Politics With Deficit Reduction Plan In September 2011, Barletta claimed that President Obama was playing politics with his deficit reduction plan. There are some things I like and some things I dont like about what the president said, he said. I like lowering the corporate tax rate and eliminating the loopholes, but I dont like raising taxes on the job creators. To me, this sounded more like a campaign speech rather than a policy change, and what we need is a policy change since its clear that the presidents policies arent working. [Times-Leader, 09/20/11] Agreed With Cantors Position on Disaster Relief In August 2011, Marino agreed with Rep. Eric Cantors position that any disaster relief funding should be offset by budget reductions. Barletta said, We have to get money by offsetting other duplicative programs. And there are many of those thousands where the same program is being run by different agencies. He cited the Institute of Peace as an example of such a program saying, We have the Peace Corps and other agencies that do the same job. [Times Leader, 09/01/11] Voted for Final Debt Ceiling Compromise Legislation In August 2011, Baretta voted for the final debt ceiling compromise legislation, the Budget Control Act of 2011. The framework would cut $917 billion in spending over a decade, raise the debt limit initially by $900 billion and assign a special congressional committee, with members from the House and the Senate and appointed by congressional leadership, to find another $1.5 trillion in deficit savings by late November.
4

If Congress met that deadline and deficit target, or voted to send a balanced budget amendment to the states, the debt ceiling would be raised an additional $1.5 trillion. The plan guaranteed a vote on the balanced budget amendment between October and the end of 2011. If Congress failed to take either step, or debt savings of at least $1.2 trillion were not produced, the plan allows the president to obtain a $1.2 trillion debt ceiling increase. That would trigger automatic spending cuts across the government including in defense and Medicare to take effect starting in 2013. The Medicare cuts would only affect Provider reimbursements. The legislation included no revenue increases. The bill was passed by the full House, 269-161. [Bloomberg, 8/01/11; S 356, 8/01/11] Voted Against Reids Debt Ceiling Plan In July 2011, Baretta voted against Sen. Harry Reids plan to raise the debt ceiling. Reids plan called for raising the debt limit by $2.4 trillion, requiring no additional debt ceiling vote until after the 2012 election. The plan included $1.2 trillion in discretionary spending cuts over 10 years, mandatory spending cuts of $100 billion, $1 trillion in savings from winding down combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, and $400 billion in interest savings. The legislation included no revenue increases. The CBO score of Reids plan said it would reduce the deficit by $2.2 trillion. The bill was rejected by the full House, 173-246. [New York Times, 7/25/11; HR 2693, 7/30/11] Voted in Favor of Boehners Debt Ceiling Plan In July 2011, Barletta voted in favor of Speaker John Boehners plan to raise the debt ceiling. Boehners plan called for an immediate debt ceiling raise of $900 billion, spending cuts of $917 billion over 10 years, and an additional debt ceiling vote in six months. The legislation contained no revenue increases. Under Boehners plan, the second debt ceiling raise was conditional on the passage of a balanced budget amendment by both Houses of Congress and the creation of a select joint committee on deficit reduction. The CBO score of Boehners plan said it would reduce the deficit by $850 billion. The bill was approved by the full house, 218-210. [ABC News, 7/29/11; S 627, 7/29/11] Barletta: As Responsible Stewards of the People, We Cannot and Will Not Let Default Happen In July 2011, Barletta said of ongoing debt ceiling negotiations, If we in this chamber, if our friends in the other chamber, or if the president holds out for the perfect plan, well the United States will likely default on its obligationsAs the responsible stewards of the peoples government, we cannot let that happen. And I am confident we will not let that happen. [Times Leader, 7/29/11]

Barletta: Boehner Plan Will and Should Pass In July 2011, Barletta said he was optimistic about Speaker John Boehners debt ceiling plan and that it will and should pass both House and Senate. Barletta said, I would be disappointed if it doesnt.
[Times-Leader, 7/27/11]

Blamed Senate for FAA Funding Freeze, Supported Drawback in Bill Impacting Local Airport Funding In July 2011, Barletta criticized the Senate for failing to pass an extension bill for the FAA. Barletta said, The U.S. Senate is preventing Americans from getting back to work at FAA job sites and improving air traffic control in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Both the chairpersons of the bipartisan Essential Air Service Caucus in the Senate said the House wants to limit the programs subsidies to airports that are 90 miles or more away from the nearest hub airport. Current rules limit the subsidies to small airports located no closer than 70 miles from a hub. A Barletta spokesman said that Barletta agrees with the limited drawback that the House bill provides.
[Times-Leader, 7/26/11]

Voted for Cut, Cap and Balance, Said It Was What He Came to Congress For In July 2011, Barletta voted for the Cut, Cap and Balance Act. Barletta said, The cut, cap and balance is what I came to Congress foreighty percent of the American people want us to balance the budget. When we talk about taking care of our children and grandchildren, this is what will do it. Barletta also said he didnt like the alternative plan being worked on by Senators Reid and McConnell. He said, I equate it to when we were small and we played hot potato. Were just passing it to someone else. We came here to fix Americas problems and passing a balanced budget is how we make sure we never do this again. [Times-Leader, 7/20/11] Voted in Favor of Cut, Cap and Balance Plan In July 2011, Barletta voted in favor of the Cut, Cap and Balance Act, legislation requiring deep spending cuts, a federal spending cap and a balanced budget amendment in order to raise the federal debt ceiling. Under Cut, Cap and Balance, discretionary spending in fiscal year 2012 would be reduced below fiscal year 2008 levels except for Defense, Homeland Security and Veterans affairs. The plan provided a universal spending cap after 2012. The legislation contained no revenue increases. The bill was approved by the full House, 234-190. [New York Times, 7/21/11; HR 2560, 7/19/11] Voted Against Clean Debt Ceiling Raise
6

In May 2011, Barletta voted against HR 1954, a clean federal debt ceiling raise of $2.4 trillion. The bill was rejected by the full House, 97-318. [HR 1954, 5/31/11] Supported the Ryan Budget In April 2011, Barletta expressed his support for the Ryan budget. I give him credit for finally bringing to the table the issues that everyone was afraid to bring and talk about [] And that was the entitlement programs. We have argued over discretionary spending, but the truth is if we cut all of the discretionary spending here, including the Department of Defense, we still would not come close to getting this country out of debt. The problem is these open-checkbook entitlement programs, Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security. [thetimes-tribune.com, 4/07/11] Said Constituents Would Accept a Government Shutdown in Exchange for Budget Cuts In 2011, Barletta said that his constituents would be willing to accept a government shutdown as long as it meant a more cuts to the federal budget. I think their attitude is whatever it takes, said Barletta. [The Morning Call, 4/05/11] Previous Government Shutdown Caused Furloughed Workers in Barlettas District In 2011, the Times Tribune reported on the effects of 1995 shutdown that took place. In 2011, Barletta said that his constituents would be willing to accept a government shutdown. During the 1995 shutdown, hundreds of Social Security employees at the Plains center and a Social Security benefits office in downtown Wilkes-Barre were furloughed. So were hundreds of civilian employees at the Tobyhanna Army Depot. The Steamtown National Historic Site closed and told all but a handful of employees to stay home. [Times Tribune, 4/06/11] Voted Against Legislation that Would Prevent Congress and the President from Receiving Pay During A Shutdown In 2011, Barletta opposed legislation that would prevent members of Congress and President Obama from receiving pay in the event of a government shutdown. The legislation also prevented those officials from retroactively receiving any lost pay. [goerie.com, 4/04/11] Said He Would Be Willing to Forgo Salary During Shutdown In April 2011, Barletta said that he would be willing forgo his salary if Congress were to shutdown. [goerie.com, 4/04/11] Opposed to Another Short-Term CR to Keep Government Running

In March 2011, Barletta stated that he would not support another short term measure to keep government running. He announced that he would only back legislation that sets spending levels for the remaining months of the 2011 fiscal year which would end Sept 30. [The Times Leader, 03/29/11] Barletta Supported Spending on COPS Program In February 2011, Barletta supported an amendment which would allocate millions of dollars to the COPS program. In a phone interview, Mr. Barletta said it's crucial funding to keep communities safe. [Times
Tribune, 2/18/11]

Barletta Wanted Spending Back to 2008 Levels In a January 2011 speech, Barletta tried to be clear about his planned spending cuts. We need to do more than just freeze spending. We need to cut spending, he said. A good place to start is by scaling back our discretionary spending to 2008 levels, a plan which I was happy to support just last week. The price of the deficit has tripled in 10 years. [The Standard Speaker, 2/01/11]

Business and Consumer Issues

Expressed Anger Over Loan Rate In September 2011, Barletta wanted to get the U.S. Small Business Administration to lower interest rates to flood-wrecked businesses in an attempt to save jobs. Barletta said that interest rates must be lowered from 6 percent and said they should be no more than the 2.9 percent charged to Katrina victims. Im not happy at all; in fact, Im raging mad over this, he said. And I have let my party leaders know. We are providing taxpayers dollars to foreign countries to build roads, bridges, schools and hospitals at zero interest. But when disaster strikes America and Americans, we want to charge 6 percent. People will lose their jobs if these businesses dont reopen. We should not be helping other countries before we help Americans. Barletta said that Northeastern Pennsylvania, with the highest unemployment rate in the state at 9.4 percent, could not afford to lose any more jobs. [Times-Leader, 09/23/11]

Campaign Finance Issues

Raised $269,498 in 2011 In February 2012, the Times Leader reported that Barletta raised $269,498 in 2011 and $146,978 during the fourth quarter. However, he also spent $101,803 during the same time period.

Barlettas campaign also reported an outstanding debt of $85,102. That included $72,500 in personal loans Barletta made to the campaign. [Times Leader, 2/01/12] Democrat Vinsko Raised $84,972.16 in Q3 In October 2011, Barlettas potential opponent Bill Vinsko released his first campaign finance report and raised $84,972.16 in Q3, with $80,144 coming from individual contributions. Barletta still had a cash advantage, outraising Vinsko in Q3 by $15,220. Vinsko, however, only announced his candidacy three weeks after the start of the quarter. [citizensvoice.com, 10/16/11] Vinsko Nearly Matched Barletta for Q3 In October 2011, Vinsko reported raising $84,972 in Q3, coming close to Barlettas $100192. Barletta was named National Journals list of Top 10 fundraising Flops. [politicspa.com, 10/20/11] Received $1,000 From Goldman Sachs Barletta received $1,000 from Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. PAC, on August 18, 2011. [Lou Barletta for
Congress, 2011 October Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 10/14/11]

Spent $27,500 on Fundraising Consultant From July to September 2011, Barletta spent $27,517 on fundraising consulting from Capital Strategies, DC. [Lou Barletta for Congress, 2011 October Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 10/14/11] Spent $9,000 on Fundraising Consultant From July to September 2011, Barletta spent $9,000 on fundraising consulting from Keystone Strategies, Inc. [Lou Barletta for Congress, 2011 October Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 10/14/11] Spent $9,000 on Campaign Management From July to September 2011, Barletta spent $9,000 on campaign management from Red Stag Enterprises. [Lou Barletta for Congress, 2011 October Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 10/14/11] Accepted $5,000 in Campaign Contributions from Palin In July 2011, Sarah Palins finance report released that she donated $5,000 to Barlettas campaign committee. [mcall.com, 7/14/11]

Crime & Public Safety Issues

Praised Government Support for Disaster Relief

In January 2012, Barletta expressed his satisfaction with the federal governments initiative to improve roads and repair bridges affected by natural disasters. Barletta said he was pleased and proud that the federal government was taking steps to provide disaster relief funding for the people who live in, work in and travel through his district. This funding is vitally needed, and it will help restore some of the roads that were damaged during Tropical Storm Lee and Hurricane Irene, he said. These funds are awarded to a state after the president or the governor issues a formal emergency declaration and the state files a request for the cost of damages to its eligible highways. [Times Leader, 1/10/12] Barletta Supported Spending on COPS Program In February 2011, Barletta supported an amendment which would allocate millions of dollars to the COPS program. In a phone interview, Mr. Barletta said it's crucial funding to keep communities safe. [The TimesTribune.com, 2/18/11]

Economic and Financial Issues

Office Visited by Occupy Protestors In December 2011, members of the Take Back the Capital protest visited Barlettas office to ask for an extension of long-term unemployment benefits. Barletta met briefly with the protestors and said he would look very closely at unemployment benefits and all that. The protestors asked Barletta if he would continue to support and take money from the 99 percent. Barletta said, I always put the constituents fist, its about people not politics. I stand for 100% of Americans. He also said, Its very important to get everybody back to work to get them a job and hopefully get them on the right track again. [politicspa.com, 12/8/11] Standard-Speaker/Times-Tribune: Barletta More Interested in Stopping Obama Than Creating Jobs In December 2011, the Standard-Speaker/Times-Tribune editorial board criticized Barletta for being a [member] of the hard-right House Republican freshman class that is as much interested in stymieing Obama as in helping to create jobs. The paper encouraged Barletta to support the presidents jobs plan for the good of his district, regardless of his partys politics. [Times-Tribune, 11/30/11; Standard Speaker,
12/4/11]

NEPA Needs Jobs Group Rallied for American Jobs Act In November 2011, the NEPA Needs Jobs coalition rallied support for the American Jobs Act, which Barletta opposed, by suggesting that infrastructure repairs would create and save jobs. The group pointed specifically to the Water Street Bridge in Pittston.

10

Barletta referred to the American Jobs Act as another stimulus bill and said that it would not create any more jobs than the last stimulus bill did. [Times-Leader, 11/15/11]

Education Issues
Cosponsored ACE Act, Altering Public School Funding In July 2011, Barletta cosponsored the All Children Are Equal (ACE) Act. The legislation fixes a gross inequity in the way formulas are calculated under Title 1 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, which provides funds to local school districts in order to improve the education of disadvantaged students. The current formula has the perverse effect of diverting funding from higher poverty school districts to more populous school districts, regardless of the actual poverty rates. [gantdaily.com, 7/14/11] Supported the Revival of a School Voucher System in the District of Columbia In 2011, Barletta voted in support of legislation that would revive a school voucher system in DC that would provide more students with scholarships of $8,000 to $12,000 annually for tuition costs at private elementary and secondary schools in the D.C. area. The legislation is estimated to cost $100 million over five years in deficit spending. [goerie.com, 4/04/11] Said Spending Cuts Were the Way to Give Students in College a Better Future In 2011, during a hearing on funding cuts to Luzerne County Community College, Barletta said that cuts were necessary to giving students a better future. "If we really want to provide a future for students, it is imperative that we cut spending," Barletta said. "America is broke. It's as simple as that." LCCC had already cut $700,000 from the college's administrative budget at the time of the hearing.
[citizensvoice.com, 3/22/11]

Energy Issues
Criticized Obama for Delaying Decision on Keystone Pipeline In November 2011, Barletta said that Obama was putting politics ahead of job creation and energy policy by delaying a decision on whether to approve the Keystone pipeline, which would carry oil from Alberta through Nebraska down to Texas. Barletta said that the pipeline would create thousands of jobs and lower dependence on Middle Eastern oil. He said, I am very disappointed by the presidents decision to punt on the Keystone XL pipeline project. The extended pipeline and expanded volume of energy that would move through this new system

11

would create jobs and lower the price of energy. President Obama has put political considerations ahead of the needs of the American people and the security of the American economy. [Times Leader, 11/18/11] Supported Stimulus $24 Million Stimulus Grant to Now Bankrupt Energy-Storage Company In October 2011, Beacon Power filed for bankruptcy after receiving a $43 million Department of Energy loan guarantee. In 2009, Beacon Power won a $24 million Smart Grid stimulus grant to build a flywheel facility in Hazle Township. In addition, Beacon Power received a $5 million grant from Pennsylvania Republican Gov. Tom Corbett. Regarding the grants, Barletta said, Projects like this will bring significant economic, environmental and efficiency benefits to Pennsylvania's power grid. It will also create new jobs and boost the local economy. [USA Today, 10/31/11] Supported Now Bankrupt Power Company In November 2011, Beacon Power, which Barletta once supported, declared bankruptcy and needed more money from investors to build a $53 million flywheel plant in Hazleton. Barletta supported Beacon Powers decision to build a plant near Hazleton and his spokesman said, He hopes the company's restructuring is successful and the project is saved because it has the potential of creating jobs and lowering the cost of electricity to consumers. [standardspeaker.com,
11/04/11]

NEPA Tea Party Launched Robocall Campaign Against Energy Policies In October 2011, the Northeast Pennsylvania Tea Party launched a campaign against Barletta for his support of legislation that created tax incentives and subsidies to encourage the use and production of natural gas vehicles. NEPA Tea Party Leader Orbin said its disappointing to see them backing these types of plans whey they say they back the free market. The bill would provide $5 billion in subsidies over a 5 year period. A Barletta spokesman wrote that Rep. Barletta supports efforts to reduce Americas dependency on foreign oil, and he supports the sensible, responsible use of natural resources here in Pennsylvania. Barletta was supposed to meet with the NEPA Tea Party about their concerns but could not do so due to flooding from Tropical Storm Lee. [politicspa.com, 10/01/11] Tea and Gas Dont Mix Well In October 2011, the Northeast Pennsylvania Tea Party launched a campaign against Barletta for his support of legislation that created tax incentives and subsidies to encourage the use and production of natural gas vehicles. [dailyitem.com, 10/3/11] Barletta, Gas Prices

12

"It's the single most subject that people talk about to me," said Rep. Lou Barletta, a Republican freshman from eastern Pennsylvania. "If every member went home and got beat up over gas prices as a group in Washington, we might have more serious talks about what to do." [Politico, 5/02/11] Supported an An All of the Above Energy Policy In 2011, Barletta supported an energy policy that included coal and the drilling of domestic oil as a solution to American energy costs. I want to pursue an All of the Above energy strategy that includes domestically produced oil, natural gas, clean coal, wind, solar, and geothermal sources to meet our growing demands. [Barletta Newsletter,
03/16/11]

Environmental Issues
Criticized Obama for Delaying Decision on Keystone Pipeline In November 2011, Barletta said that Obama was putting politics ahead of job creation and energy policy by delaying a decision on whether to approve the Keystone pipeline, which would carry oil from Alberta through Nebraska down to Texas. Barletta said that the pipeline would create thousands of jobs and lower dependence on Middle Eastern oil. He said, I am very disappointed by the presidents decision to punt on the Keystone XL pipeline project. The extended pipeline and expanded volume of energy that would move through this new system would create jobs and lower the price of energy. President Obama has put political considerations ahead of the needs of the American people and the security of the American economy. [Times Leader, 11/18/11] Targeted by TV Ads From Environmentalists In October 2011, the NRDC launched a $100,000 media attack on Barletta for his affiliation with polluters after Barletta voted for the TRAIN Act, which would delay compliance to certain Clean Air Act regulations. The TV ads showed images of children swimming underwater with masks on and were set to appear in Harrisburg and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. The NRDC plans to spend several hundreds of thousands of dollars on the ads. A spokesman for Barletta said, Claims that Rep. Barletta is attacking the Clean Air Act are completely false. Not one of the roll call votes cited (#86, #140, #147, and #741) alters the Clean Air Act in any way. Every single vote cited keeps current EPA regulations in place and allows the EPA to continue to regulate pollutants. The roll call votes in question do not weaken or remove any EPA regulation currently in effect. This is a horrible attack ad that attempts to mislead and scare voters by making false claims about the health of children. Its repugnant. These roll call votes will save thousands of jobs of people who work in the American cement industry. Votes against these bills are votes to kill at least 20 percent of the

13

American cement industry, and to move more American manufacturing jobs to countries like China.
[politicspa.com, 10/13/11]

Sponsored Legislation Giving States Final Approval On Clean Water Regulations Over EPA In July 2011, Barletta sponsored legislation giving states final approval over an array of clean water regulations affecting everything from rivers and streams to mountain-top mining operations. The EPA charged that the legislation would overturn almost 40 years of federal legislation by preventing the EPA from protecting public health and water qualityThe bill would significantly undermine the EPAs longstanding role under the CWA to ensure that state water quality standards protect clean water and public health and comply with the law. Barletta commented, Everyone has the same goal of protecting the health of citizens and preserving the environment, and this bill will help to restore a more healthy balance between states rights and the federal interest by brining back the regulatory partnership between state and federal agencies. [The Times
Leader, 7/03/11]

Called on EPA to Address Cancer Cluster at Superfund Site In July 2011, Barletta said he would continue to press the EPA and work with state lawmakers to address the alleged cancer cluster produced by the Butler Mine Tunnel, a superfund site. The EPA announced in May that it had no plans to conduct additional testing at the site. [The Times Leader, 7/03/11] Barletta EPA Request Called Con Job Of The Day By MSNBC Host In May 2011, MSNBC host Cenk Uygur called Barlettas request that the EPA conduct more tests related to the Butler mine tunnel Uygurs con job of the day. Uygur said, In February, Barletta voted for the GOP budget to cut the EPA`s funding by about a third. He also voted to ban funding for the EPA to enforce any regulations related to greenhouse gas emissions. []You know what might have helped them do their job? If you didn`t try to cut their budget, but that is the things that get me about these guys, how can you be outraged the EPA is not doing enough when you just voted to make sure they could do as little as possible. [MSNBC Live with Cenk Uygur, 5/31/11] EPA Told Pittston Residents The Agency Would Not Consider Additional Testing In May 2011, The Citizens Voice reported that EPA officials told dozens of residents gathered at Martin L. Mattei Middle School in Pittston that the agency would not consider additional testing around Mill and Carroll streets. Mitch Cron, the EPA's remedial project manager for the Butler Mine Tunnel Superfund Site, repeatedly told residents that they are not exposed to contaminants from the mine tunnel and that the water running through it is generally very clean. [The Citizens Voice, 5/26/11] Barletta Asked For More EPA Testing In Potential Cancer Cluster In May 2011, Barletta sent a letter to the EPA requesting further investigation into a Pittston neighborhood where residents say dozens of people have been diagnosed with or died of cancer. Barletta wants additional testing for hazardous materials in the soil, air and water around Mill and Carroll streets, located near the mouth of the Butler Mine Tunnel. Residents have wondered if the rash of cancer stems

14

from the mine drainage tunnel, once illegally filled with millions of gallons of oil waste and chemicals. Barletta wrote of the EPAs refusal to conduct more testing in the area, Frankly, this is unacceptable. [] The EPA's own website indicates that one of the agency's primary reasons for existence is to ensure that 'all Americans are protected from significant risks to human health and the environment where they live, learn and work. [The Citizens Voice, 5/26/11]

Ethics Issues
Hired Former Lobbyist to Work on Official Staff In March 2011, the Center for Responsive Politics released a database showing that Barletta had hired Patrick Rothwell to be their chief of staff. According to CRP, Rothwell had previously lobbied for Van Scoyoc Associates. [Center for Responsive Politics, accessed 3/08/11]

Foreign Policy Issues Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran, North Korea

Supported Proposal to Cut Funding for International Family Planning Program In October 2011, Barletta supported a proposal to cut a UN family planning program that operates in developing countries. Barletta signed a letter to Obama calling for a halt of U.S. contributions to the fund. A spokesman for Barletta said that he strongly disagrees with paying for international family planning while people in Northeastern Pennsylvania are struggling to recover from epic flooding. Rep. Barletta believes we should help Americans recover from disasters first. Barletta also backed a bill that would strip funding from Planned Parenthood, eliminate funding for a national family planning program, cut funding to a teen pregnancy prevention initiative, and direct money to abstinence only education programs. [Times-Leader, 10/9/11] Supported Decision to Remove Troops from Afghanistan if Military Leaders Agreed In June 2011, Barletta commented on Obamas decision to remove troops from Afghanistan by 2012 and said, The president needs to listen to what they say they need in terms of troop levels in order to do the job. I have faith in our commanders in Afghanistan, so if Gen. Petreaus and the others agree with this decision, then I believe its the right decision. [The Times Leader, 6/23/11]

Gay and Lesbian Issues

15

Gun Issues Health Care Issues

Nothing Will Change If Youre Under 55 Well, that's absolutely correct. You know, anyone that's 55 years or older nothing will change. The fact is, is that in nine years, Medicare will be bankrupt for those who are younger than 55 and if we do nothing, there won't be any Medicare. [CNN, 5/04/11] Barletta Said Medicare Beneficiaries Would Have Same Options As Members of Congress. IN April 2011, in an address to a Westmoreland County Republican dinner, Barletta said of the Ryan budgets Medicare reforms, "Nothing will change for seniors, and by offering younger Americans the same (medical insurance) plan members of Congress have, it will save money, balance the budget and pay off debt. [Tribune-Review, 4/30/11] Liked the Idea of Privatizing Medicare In April 2011, Barletta said that he liked the idea of privatizing Medicare namely because it doesn't affect senior citizens or anyone 55 years or older. The plan would gradually raise the retirement age for access to Medicare from 65 to 67 years old for people younger than 55. Starting in 2022, new retirees would get up to $8,000 in premium support to buy health insurance from private insurers rather than have Medicare pay all the bills now. Wealthier retirees would get less money. The Congressional Budget Office, Congress' chief independent research agency, says that will likely mean the new retirees pay more out of pocket. [standardspeaker.com, 4/07/11] Said Privatized Medicare Was the Same Health Care as Congress Barletta said starting in 2022 the new Medicare recipients will be getting the same health care program that members of Congress have. [standardspeaker.com, 4/07/11]

Immigration and Border Issues

Announced Illegal Immigration Forum In November 2011, Barletta announced that he would hold a forum on illegal immigration with a retired immigration agent in Wilkes-Barre.

16

When Barletta was Mayor of Hazleton, the city council adopted the Illegal Immigration Relief Act that punished landlords and businesses for hiring and employing undocumented immigrants. [Standard Speaker,
11/18/11]

Opposed E-Verify Immigration Bill In November 2011, Barletta opposed an immigration bill that would mandate employers to use the EVerify system to check their employees legal work status because it would take away power from state and local laws. Barletta as the Mayor of Hazleton cracked down on employees who hired illegal workers, and claimed that the E-Verify bill would prevent places with already strict immigration laws to enforce those laws. He said, I have no faith that the federal government is serious about enforcing our immigration laws. They havent, I dont believe they will. And the Supreme Court agrees that the states have the right why would we come along now and take that away from them? And the United States Chamber gets solidly behind this preemption which raises all sorts of red flags for me this is a wolf in sheeps clothing, this bill. [The Hill, 11/03/11] Opposed Bill Mandating National Use of E-Verify In June 2011, Barletta came out against a bill mandating the use of E-Verify, putting him in the unusual position of opposing a bill that would do nationally what he sought to do in Hazleton when he was mayor. Barletta opposed the bill because businesses that hire illegal immigrants only could lose licenses after a federal finding is reached, pre-empting the enforcement power of states and municipalities.
[Citizens Voice, 6/21/11]

Barletta: Extension of E-Verify Makes Local Governments Powerless In June 2011, Barletta opposed the Legal Workforce Act, legislation that extends the federal E-Verify program. Barletta commented, If this bill becomes law, states and municipalities will be powerless without the federal government acting first. Waiting for the federal government to enforce its own immigration laws is how we got into this mess in the first place. [Office of Congressman Barletta, 6/15/11] Praised Supreme Court Decision to Order Re-Examination of Hazleton Immigration Law In June 2011, the Supreme Court ordered Philadelphias Third Circuit Court of Appeals to re-examine the Hazleton Illegal Immigration Relief Act. The law was modeled on the law Representative Barletta spearheaded when he was mayor of Hazleton in 2006. Barletta commented that Hazleton paved the way for all other cities and states to enact similar laws. [Office of Congressman Barletta, 6/06/11] Introduced Bill to Eliminate Federal Funding for Sanctuary Cities In June 2011, introduced the Mobilizing Against Sanctuary Cities Act, to stop federal funds from going to the more than 100 local and state governments that offer havens by preventing police and other public servants from telling federal authorities about immigrants with illegal status.

17

Barletta said that the sanctuaries are not punished. They are rewarded with billions of dollars each and every year.[Hazleton Standard-Speaker, 6/01/11] Barletta Spoke About Oswaldo Tlalmis-Perez On House Floor, Said Millions Of Americans Deserve An Answer About What Happened In May 2011, Barletta spoke on the House floor about the arrest and release of an illegal immigrant, Oswaldo Tlalmis-Perez, in Beaver Meadows. Tlalmis-Perez was arrested but later released at the request of federal officials. Barletta said, The man had been in the United States for six years. He had been arrested before. He had no job. He didn't know where he lived. He had $3,000 cash in his pockets, and he had two public benefit access cards. When the police chief called Immigration and Customs Enforcement, ICE said, Let him go. [] Mr. Speaker, 3 weeks ago I asked ICE to explain this decision and put in writing the policy regarding the detention of illegal aliens found by local law enforcement. Why was this man let go? Three weeks later and I am still waiting. I demand an answer. My constituents deserve an answer, and millions of Americans deserve an answer. We're all still waiting. [Congressional Record: Waiting
for ICE, 5/26/11]

Barletta Applauded Supreme Court Ruling That Upheld Arizona Law Requiring Businesses To Use E-Verify In May 2011, Barlettas congressional office issued a press release which applauded the decision by the United States Supreme Court that upheld a Hazleton-style illegal immigration law. Barletta said, The law upheld by the United States Supreme Court is a dead ringer for the business portion of Hazleton's Illegal Immigration Relief Act. Both require businesses to use the federal E-Verify program to check the immigration status of their employees. Both punish businesses - not the illegal aliens - through actions taken against their permits and licenses. Both laws use the exact same language, and the Supreme Court decision explicitly cites whole sentences of both laws and upholds them. [Office of Congressman Barletta,
5/26/11]

Rasmussen Poll Found 59 Percent Of Americans Supported Cutting Off Funding To Sanctuary Cities According to Pennsylvania Avenue, in May 2011, Rasmussun Reports conducted a poll on Barletta's legislation and found that 59 percent favor cutting off funding to sanctuary cities, 28 percent were opposed and 13 percent were unsure. [Pennsylvania Avenue, 5/11/11] Barletta: Americans Are Looking For Enforcement, Not Immigration Reform In May 2011, Barletta said that he did not watch President Obama's immigration speech Tuesday, he said he heard enough to know it's not what the American people want to hear. Barletta said, The American people aren't looking for reform, they are looking for enforcement. [Pennsylvania Avenue, 5/11/11] Philadelphia Classified As Sanctuary City Because Police Do Not Release Immigration Status Of Witnesses Or Victims Of Crimes To ICE

18

According to Morning Call, in May 2011, the cities that Barletta would target in his bill have adopted a policy that, to varying degrees, says local law enforcement won't turn over illegal immigrants to federal authorities. Philadelphia, although it does not consider itself one, is deemed a sanctuary city by some because Mayor Michael Nutter decided last summer to no longer release the immigration status of witnesses or victims of crimes to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. [Morning Call, 5/05/11] Barletta Introduced Bill To Withhold Federal Funding From Sanctuary Cities Barletta introduced a bill that would withhold all federal funding from sanctuary cities, those that do not fully enforce federal immigration laws. More than 100 cities have forbidden their police from asking someone's immigration status or providing information on illegal immigration to the federal government. They include Philadelphia, New York, San Diego, San Francisco, Chi-cago, Baltimore, New Orleans and New Haven, Conn. In some cases, mayors have said do not want police spending their time on a federal matter, illegal immigration, when other crimes are more important. In others, mayors have backed the desire of large Latino populations who do not want relatives ensnared in immigration raids. [The TimesTribune, 5/05/11]

Barletta Announced Freshmen Immigration Reform Caucus In May 2011, Barletta announced the creation of the 112th Congress Immigration Reform Caucus. Barletta said, I'm putting together a group of freshman members to address the problem of illegal immigration in this country. I'm optimistic that other new members of Congress who are concerned about our flawed immigration system will join this caucus so we can devise some real solutions. According to the Standard Speaker, Barletta said he has not signed up anyone to join his caucus and acknowledged that Congress already has an immigration caucus. But he said his caucus is exclusively for freshmen. This is going to give freshmen a platform and bring some fresh ideas, [Office of Congressman Barletta, 5/04/11;
Standard Speaker, 5/05/11]

Cosponsored Legislation to Help Local Police Enforce Immigration Laws In 2011, Barletta cosponsored legislation that would strengthen provisions to the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996. Provisions of the legislation are:

Recognize the inherent authority of states and localities to enforce immigration law; Improve information sharing between state and local governments and the federal government; Mandate the federal government to expeditiously remove criminal aliens being detained by states and localities; and Increase federal resources for local governments that choose to assist in immigration enforcement.
[numbersusa.com, 03/09/11]

Barletta Co-Sponsored Birthright Citizenship Act In February 2011, Barletta co-sponsored the Birthright Citizenship Act, which would add to the existing federal code a provision that requires at least one parent of a new born to be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident in order for the new born to receive automatic citizenship. [NumbersUSA.com, 2/14/11]

19

Israel
Barletta Said Obama Israel Plan Advocates The Appeasement Of Hardline Terrorists In a May 2011 statement on Obamas Israeli two-state solution proposal, Barletta said, With the speech he delivered last Thursday, the president reversed decades of American foreign policy and appeared to embrace a new stance that advocates the appeasement of hardline terrorists - in exchange for nothing in return from the Palestinian Authority. The president should understand that a trading land for peace will never work because hardline terrorists don't just want land - they want to wipe Israel off the map. Israel has the right to defend itself as it pursues peace for its people through a viable, two-state solution. [Office
of Congressman Barletta, 5/24/11]

Labor and Working Family Issues

Announced Low-Income Families Will Receive Grant to Rehabilitate Homes In February 2012, Barletta announced that a Lackawanna County agency that helped homeowners avoid foreclosure and low-income families rehabilitate their homes will get a $77,500 federal grant. Scranton-based Neighborhood Housing Services of Lackawanna County will receive the grant, which will allow the agency to continue its important work in foreclosure prevention, homeownership promotion and housing rehabilitation, she said. [thetimes-tribune.com, 2/08/12] Rally Held to Urge Barletta to Vote for American Jobs Act In October 2011, labor activists gathered in Public Square to urge Barletta to vote for the American Jobs Act. One protestor said that he had been trying to schedule a meeting with Barletta for over a year and was told he could meet with Barletta in January. Barlettas communications director blamed Senate Democrats for reusing to vote on the Jobs Act. He said, So far this year, Rep. Barletta voted for at least 16 serious and substantial bills that would create jobs and grow the economy. Most of those bills are still sitting in the Senates lap. [Times-Leader, 10/11/11] Barletta Op-Ed: Legal Workforce Act Undermines States Rights, Must Be Defeated In October 2011, Barletta wrote an op-ed speaking out against HR 2885, the Legal Workforce Act. The bill would make the federal E-Verify system that lets businesses determine eligibility of employees to work in the U.S. mandatory for businesses in all 50 states. Barletta wrote, But the Legal Workforce Act is a good bill gone bad. That's because it guts the rights of states and local municipalitiesAs someone at the forefront of the illegal-immigration battle, I don't trust the federal government to do its duty and enforce a new immigration law In a decision to uphold the Legal Arizona Workers Act of 2007, the United States Supreme Court ruled that Arizona is allowed to

20

revoke the business licenses of employers who hire illegal aliens. This landmark decision opens the door for other states and local jurisdictions that want to protect their budgets and make sure legal residents can find jobs. The Legal Workforce Act could be salvaged. If the pre-emption language is removed, the proposal could be an incredibly effective tool in the fight against illegal immigration -- but only if the preemption language is removed. [washingtonexaminer.com, 10/16/11] Supported Propping Up Cheap Foreign Labor In September 2011, Barletta, along with 48 other members of Congress, wrote a letter to Labor Secretary Solis stating that business owners should be able to continue importing cheap, foreign labor at current wages. Employers want the Obama administration to abandon an October 1st wage increase determined by the H2B visa program designed to discourage employers from using foreign labor. While Barletta normally criticizes permissive immigration, his spokesman said that he wants to protect small businesses in his area because he believes that raising wages of foreign employers would cause businesses to shut down. A District Judge in Philadelphia found current wages by the H-2B visa program too low and said employers could use the program to exploit low-paid foreign labor. [philly.com, 09/20/11] WPA Not the Solution For Unemployment In September 2011, Barletta said that he cannot support a modern day version of the Works Progress Administration, because he cant trust the federal government to create a new WPA. Barletta claimed that the WPA would squander more taxpayer money likethe stimulus bill. Instead, Barletta called for GOP approved bills that would cut spending and reduce federal regulations. [TimesLeader, 09/04/11]

Unemployment Group Wanted to Talk to Barletta About Job Creation In 2011, a group protested Barletta to ask where the jobs were. In a written statement, Barletta said that he has voted for at least 15 measures that will cut, burdensome over-regulation, reduce federal overspending that leads to uncertainty among job creators, encourage entrepreneurship and fix the tax code." Protestors targeted Barletta because he had been unreachable by phone and e-mail. [citizensvoice.com, 08/16/11]

Senior Issues
Pushed Medicare Reform Plan In August 2011, Barletta pushed a new Medicare reform plan where beneficiaries would choose from a variety of coverage options each with varying premiums.

21

Regarding his plan, Barletta said that, My answer is simple: I'm not going to end Medicare. Medicare is going to end on its own, if we don't do something about it. Washington has just kept pushing this off because nobody wants to go back and say, 'Listen, we're going to have to do something or the program is not going to be there. [citizensvoice.com, 8/23/11] Introduced Legislation For COLA Calculation Changes In 2011, Barletta co-sponsored legislation that would change the formula used to calculate Social Security cost-of-living adjustments by creating a formula that only examined senior citizens cost of living expenses. [Times Leader, 09/01/11] Barletta: Obama Using Scare Tactics on American Senior Citizens In July 2011, Barletta said President Obama was using scare tactics on American senior citizens, military families, veterans and those who rely on checks from the federal government in order to push the administrations agenda for tax increases. Barletta said, The president is the one who decides what gets paid and what does not if revenues are limited. He is the one choosing to withhold the checks from senior citizens, soldiers and their families, veterans and all those who rely on a government benefit check. If these folks dont get paid, its the presidents faultThe president can choose to keep making those payments, even if the debt ceiling is reached because the federal government raises about $185 billion in tax revenue every month.
[citizensvoice.com, 7/28/11]

Called for Recalculation of Cost of Living Adjustment for Social Security In March 2011, Barletta suggested that the way cost of living for Social Security was calculated needs changed. Congress has to take a look at the calculation and figure out a way to correct it, Barletta said. Any increase in Social Security will be eaten up by an increase in Medicare, and that just shouldnt be, he said Barletta said he learned that energy costs are not a part of the COLA calculation. Over the last two years, energy costs have skyrocketed, he said. [The Times Leader, 4/01/11] Called Social Security and Medicare So Unsustainable In 2011, Barletta pointed to big entitlement programs - Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid as reasons for the debt problem . They have grown "out of control and become so unsustainable," said Barletta. He did not address any specific proposals for reining in entitlement spending. [standardspeaker.com, 3/24/11] Supported Chairman Ryans Proposed Cuts to Social Security

22

In 2011, the DCCC attacked Barletta on supporting Paul Ryans plans to cut Social Security and Medicare, which could be potentially harmful to seniors. [DCCC Press Release, 3/22/11]

Stem Cells Tax Issues

Citizens Voice: Barletta Voted to Impose Major Tax Increase and Eliminate Benefits In December 2011, the Citizens Voice criticized Barletta for opposing a two-month extension of the payroll tax cut and unemployment benefits. The paper accused him of not practicing what he preached by voting to impose a major tax increase on over 160 million working Americans. The editorial urged Barletta to forgo rigid ideology for the benefit of the people in the future. [citizensvoice.com, 12/22/11] Backed Extension of Social Security Payroll Tax Cut; Criticized Obama for Playing Politics In November 2011, Barletta said that he supported an extension of the Social Security payroll tax cut, but criticized Obama when he visited Scranton to make a pitch for the payroll tax cut extension. Regarding the tax cut, Barletta said, I believe that money is better staying in the pockets of American citizens than it is in the coffers of the federal government. Barletta then added that Obama should have stayed in Washington to work with Senate Democrats to pass some of the 20-plus job-creating bills that we in the House passed, and that are now sitting in the Senate. He also added that, The people of Scranton would rather have a job than a visit, especially a visit at taxpayers expense. [Times Leader,
11/30/11]

Favored Payroll Tax Cut In December 2011, Barletta said that he favored an extension to cut Social Security payroll taxes and said he would consider an expansion and the proposed surcharge, but said his preference was to not raise any taxes. Barletta said, I think we should keep all ideas on the table if we can pay for it. I wouldn't rule anything out at this point. I'm open to leaving everything on the table and let's get the best idea. This (not passing the extension) would be a tax hike at a time you want to keep more money in people's pockets. There's many ways that we could find to pay for these ideas. ... Hopefully, we'll be able to put something together in the House before the year ends. [Times-Tribune, 12/3/11] Said Obama was Using Scare Tactics to Push for Tax Increases In July 2011, Barletta accused President Obama of using scare tactics on American senior citizens, military families, veterans, and those who rely on checks from the federal government in order to push the administrations agenda for tax increases.

23

Barletta said, The president is the one who decides what gets paid and what does not if revenues are limited. He is the one choosing to withhold the checks from senior citizens, soldiers and their families, veterans, and all those who rely on a government benefit check. If these folks dont get paid, its the presidents faultThe president can choose to keep making those payments, even if the debt ceiling is reached, because the federal government raises about $185 billion in tax revenue every month.
[pocononews.com, 7/13/11]

Barletta: Raising TaxesNot an Option In March, 2011, Barletta claimed that raising taxes was not an option in finding ways to end the federal deficit. Do you know what the alternatives to spending cuts are? Raising taxes. Thats precisely what the Democrats who are attacking me would rather do. Thats not an option. [Lou Barletta Newsletter, 3/30/11]

Tea Party
Barletta Announced to be Inductee for Patriot Program In June 2011, Politico reported that Barletta would be one of the first inductees for the National Republican Congressional Committees Patriot Program, designed to assist freshman and a few longerserving lawmakers expected to face difficult paths to reelection. [Politico, 6/01/11] Barletta Said Town Hall Anger Was Manufactured In April 2011, Barletta dismissed opposition from constituents at his town-hall meetings during April, saying, This is not genuine anger over Medicare; it's manufactured political anger that's causing the disturbances. [The Seattle Times, 4/29/11] Barletta Repeated Manufactured Anger Charge On CNN In a May 2011 interview on CNN, Barletta said, Well, I think there's a big difference between the Tea Party, which average Americans coming there because they were angry at government. They didn't get an e-mail to tell them what questions to ask and what to be angry about. So I believe this is manufactured anger. [CNN, 5/04/11] Barletta Said U.S. Would Have Been Damaged Beyond Repair If GOP Hadnt Taken House In 2010. In April 2011, in an address to a Westmoreland County Republican dinner, said, This is an important time in America. If we didn't take the House last year, this country would have been damaged beyond repair. We need more help. We need the Senate. We need the White House. [Tribune-Review, 4/30/11]

Transportation Issues
24

Womens Issues
Supported Third Continuing Resolution Because it Eliminated Funding for Abortion In April 2011, Barletta said that he would vote for the stopgap deal which averted a potential government shutdown because namely because the resolution eliminated funding for abortions in Washington, DC. I will vote for this deal. It funds the government through the end of the fiscal year and cuts billions of dollars in wasteful Washington spending. More importantly, it eliminates funding for abortions in Washington, DC, and it calls for up or down votes in the Senate on taxpayer funding for Planned Parenthood and sections of the government takeover of healthcare. [PoconoNews.Net, 4/09/11]

Miscellaneous
Vinsko Received Labor Endorsements In February 2012, Bill Vinsko, a Democratic candidate for Congress in the 11th district, received endorsements from the Plumbers, Pipefitters, and HVACR Technicians Local 520 and the Northeastern Pennsylvania Building and Construction Trades Council. I am honored to be endorsed by such a respected group of hard-working individuals and organizations, Vinsko said. Pennsylvania needs jobs, and Congress needs to get things done. [politicspa.com, 2/09/12] Criticized State of the Union Address In January 2012, Barletta criticized President Obamas State of the Union address. Barletta said the president gave a great speech, but facts speak louder than words. However, Barletta believed he could work with the President on a transportation funding bill recently unveiled by Republicans. [thetimes-tribune.com, 1/25/12] Criticized Senate for Not Passing House Bills In January 2012, Barletta criticized the Senate for refusing to act on a series of bills passed by the House. And that's where the system is broken, he said. In a perfect world, if you and I were trying to negotiate on something, that's exactly what we would do. If I gave you something and said, 'Take a look at this' and you don't like it, well, then change it, amend it, send me something back, give me another opportunity to find the common ground where we could pass something. But if you're going to take it and throw it a drawer, we're not going to get anywhere. [Standard Speaker, 1/17/12] Endorsed Santorum for President

25

In January 2012, Barletta announced his support for Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum. In a statement released by the Santorum campaign, Barletta said, Rick Santorum has been a good friend of mine for many years. He was always supportive, especially when I was mayor of Hazleton and during my campaigns. He is a great leader and an incredibly hard worker. In 2010, Santorum gave $2,000 to Barletta's campaign. [Morning Call, 1/12/12] Toured Town Flooded by Tropical Storm Lee with Boehner In November 2011, Barletta and Boehner toured the town of Bloomsburg, which had been hit hard by flooding of Tropical Storm Lee. Bloomsburg residents spoke to Boehner and Barletta about slow insurance payouts and the need for better flood protection. [wtrf.com, 11/15/11] Toured Flood Devastated Towns with Boehner In November 2011, Barletta organized a tour with Boehner to view flood devastated towns, and Boehner promised to work with Barletta and federal agencies to make sure that the federal government met its responsibility for flood relief. Boehner said that he did not see disaster relief being put on the chopping block during Super Committee negotiations. Barletta said that he talked to Boehner about flood devastation and said, It's important, I think, for the speaker to be here. [standardspeaker.com, 11/15/11] Wanted More Funding for LIHEAP In November 2011, Barletta signed a bipartisan letter with 87 other House members asking for $4.7 billion in LIHEAP funding as opposed to the $3.4 billion recommended by the House. Although Barletta often supports cuts in federal spending, he did not believe in cutting home heating assistance. He said, Were barely into November, and weve already had unseasonably cold temperatures and a heavy snowfall. [Times-Leader, 11/08/11] Said He Spent Most of His Time in Washington In November 2011, Barletta said that he spends most of his time in Washington and he returns to his district once a month to schedule time with constituents. [Citizens Voice, 11/07/11] Spent $538.01 on Bottled Water From July-September 2011, Barletta spent $538.01 on water from Glen Summit Springs Water Co., Deer Park, and Highland Estates Coffee. [2011 3nd Quarter Statements of Disbursement, 10/5/11] Spent $25,720.93 on Printing
26

From July-September 2011, Barletta spent $25,720.93 on printing and reproduction, including a one time cost of $16,191.13 from Capitol Direct. [2011 3nd Quarter Statements of Disbursement, 10/5/11] Spent $24,073.30 on Franked Mail From July-September 2011, Barletta spent $24,073.30 on franked mail distributed via the U.S. Postal Service. [2011 3nd Quarter Statements of Disbursement, 10/5/11] Reimbursed Himself $2,185.42 in Travel Expenses From July-September 2011, Barletta was reimbursed $2,185.42 in private auto mileage, taxis, parking, and tolls. [2011 3nd Quarter Statements of Disbursement, 10/5/11] Faced Rough Crowd at Town Hall Meeting In October 2011, Barletta held a town hall meeting in the Hazleton City Hall where he talked about a variety of issues and where questioners got a little unruly. When asked about Social Security and Medicare and raising the retirement age, Barletta said he would support the Medicare plan where those under 55 were given a government subsidy to buy a governmentapproved health care policy, but he said he would also be open to looking at other proposals. When Barletta said rolling back tax cuts on every American would only pay for 28 minutes of increasing debt, an audience member said that was a lie. Barlettas town hall meeting came two months after he announced that he was suspending town hall meetings because they were often unruly and counterproductive. [Times-Leader, 10/17/11] Constituent: Stop Treating Us Like Dogs, Lou! In October 2011, Barletta faced a tough audience during a town hall meeting in Hazleton. At a particularly contentious moment, an attendee said, You're not doing your job, Mr. Lou. Stop treating people like we're the dogs waiting under the table for some scraps. During the meeting, Barletta said he supported a balanced budget amendment and a zero-based approach to balancing the budget, which he said would eliminate duplication. In addition, Barletta spoke of his support for the Ryan plan despite opposite views from meeting attendees. He also said that taxing the wealthy would do little to help the economy and unemployment.
[standardspeaker.com, 10/17/11]

Group Protested Outside Barlettas CEO-to-CEO Breakfast, Barred From Attending In 2011, a group of community activists protested outside a breakfast hosted by the Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business and Industry for CEOs where Barletta was the guest speaker.

27

Protestors tried to register online to attend the breakfast for $30 but were turned away as they were not chamber members or CEOs. While a computer glitch allowed outsiders to register online, they were later informed they could not attend. The press was also bared from attending the event. [citizensvoice.com,
08/09/11]

Praised $5 Million Beacon Power State Grant In 2011, Barletta praised a $5 million State Grant for Beacon Power for a Flywheel Plant in Hazelton Township, Pennsylvania. The plant also received a $24 million stimulus grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. Barletta said, "This is remarkable new technology that will help lower the cost of electricity in the long run. Storing energy and putting it back into the grid when it's needed could be a game-changer as we try to reduce the cost of energy. Additionally, projects like this will bring significant economic, environmental, and efficiency benefits to Pennsylvania's power grid. It will also create new jobs and boost the local economy." [globalenergywatch.com, 08/10/11] Asked for Irene Disaster Declaration In August 2011, Pennsylvania Governor Corbett, along with other state officials, wrote to President Obama to request a federal disaster declaration in the aftermath of Hurricane Irene. Barletta agreed with Corbetts assessment and pledged to send a letter to Obama immediately. He said, I want to extend my condolences to the families of those who were killed here in Northeastern Pennsylvania during this storm. They and their families will be in my thoughts and prayers. [Politics PA,
08/29/11]

Took Credit for State-Funded Pittston Project Grant In August 2011, Barletta took credit for a Pittson Project grant funded by the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program a state program. On his role in getting the RACP money, Barletta said, The part about RACP money is getting it released. Its not getting it appropriated, its getting it released. I believe I helped by being a pain in the back, calling, telling (Corbett) how important it is as a mayor. I felt in my heart that my assistance played a role. However, an August 4th letter from the Office of the Budget said that the money had been released 10 months earlier. [Times-Leader, 8/25/11] Refuted Statement That He is No Longer Holding Town Halls In August 2011, Barlettas spokesman fought back against claims that Barletta would no longer be holding town halls. A spokesman for Barletta said that, We will continue to meet with constituents in a variety of different formats, were not ruling out town hall meetings. Well continue to meet in roundtables, tele-townhalls,

28

we may hold town halls. Barletta held town hall meetings in the spring that faced disruptions and had previously criticized incumbent Paul Kanjorski for not holding town hall meetings. [themorningcall.com,
8/24/11]

Times-Leader: Barletta Should Keep His Promise on Town Halls In August 2011, the Times-Leader editorial board criticized Barletta for faulting an opponent with ending town halls while stopping town halls himself once he entered office. The Times-Leader wrote that, But Barletta cant have it both ways, chiding an election foe for ending town hall meets, then stopping them himself, for the same reason. Barletta made a promise. He should work harder to keep it, finding ways to hold town hall meetings that are open and productive. Because, quite simply, he said he would. [Times-Leader, 8/24/11] Received 49% Score From Heritage Action for America In August 2011, Heritage Action released a scorecard that encompassed 30 key votes and 5 cosponsorships. Barletta received a 49 percent score from Heritage Action for America in 2011. [Heritage
Action for America, accessed 8/29/11]

Spent $18,358 on Mailings after Calling on Congress to Roll Back Franking Privilege In July 2011, citizensvoice.com reported that Barletta spent $18,358 on mailings during the previous three months. Last year, Barletta said that then-Rep. Paul Kanjorski should pay for mailings with his campaign money. Barletta also called on Congress to roll back its privilege to send mail for free. Barlettas office said, Where Mr. Kanjorski used taxpayer funds to generate full-color, glossy, slick mailers right up to the deadline before the election, Rep. Barlettas mailer was printed in black-and-white and using a more inexpensive paper stock option-saving taxpayers about 30-40 percent, according to the vendor. [citizensvoice.com, 7/19/11] On Track to Spend Half of What Predecessor Spent on Staff Salaries In July 2011, The Pocono Record reported that Barletta was on track to spend half of what his Democratic predecessor spent on staff salaries. Barletta spent $123,547 in staff salaries for the first quarter this year, a pace that would total just under $500,000 for the entire year. Barlettas Democratic predecessor, Paul Kanjorski, spent a little more than $1 million on staffing during 2010. [The Pocono Record, 7/24/11] Barletta: Regardless of Federal Declaration, Floods in Pennsylvania Were a Disaster In July 2011, Barletta said that estimates that place flood damage in Pennsylvania at $1 million cant be right. He commented that regardless of whether the estimated damage reaches the $16 million level

29

necessary for a federal disaster declaration, the situation we have here is a disaster. [The Times Leader,
7/06/11]

Pledged to Help Victims of Flash Flood In July 2011, Barletta pledged to help Pennsylvania residents hit by a flash flood. Barletta said, We are going to fight for them. I can visually see these folks, this is their home, this is where they live, many of it, total value of everything they own has been destroyed here. [wnep.com, 7/05/11] Supported Funding for Fisheries In June 2011, Barletta said he will support the reauthorization of funding for the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund when it comes up for a vote later this year. Barletta, a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said Our committee is one of the few that still gets to decide how to allocate the funding we receiveThere was some talk about taking that power away from the committee, but we are fortunate to still be able to allocate our own funds. This is a good use of funding and I will vote to reauthorize. [The Times Leader, 6/29/11] Benefited from NRCC Patriot Program Fundraiser In June 2011, the GOP house leadership raised $1.5 million at a fundraiser for endangered incumbents, including Barletta, recently named to the NRCCs Patriot Program. [Roll Call, 6/22/11] Skipped Obamas Jobs Speech In September 2011, Barletta skipped Obamas address to a joint session of Congress on jobs to return to Pennsylvania to deal with issues related to unprecedented flooding in the Northeastern and Central regions of the state. [CNN Political Ticker, 09/08/11] Barletta: Did Not Really Suspend Town Hall Meetings In September 2011, Barletta defended himself against claims that he had suspended town hall meetings, as well as claims by the Pocono Record that accused him of agreeing to functions where those attending must pay to attend. Of the Pocono Records claims, Barletta wrote, This is an outrageous lie, and dozens of senior citizens, representatives of the media who attended, and even the protesters can prove it. I have never refused to meet in free, open forums. I do not charge constituents to hear me speak. He also blamed radical liberal group MoveOn.org for targeting his events and wrote that the antics of this radical liberal group will not deter me from meeting with my constituents. He said that he was currently planning his next town hall meeting. [poconorecord.com, 09/06/2010] Signed Letter Against Recess Appointments

30

In June 2011, Barletta signed a letter to House leadership requesting all appropriate measures be taken to prevent any recess appointment by the President for the remainder of the 112th Congress. The coalition signing the letter offered to man the floor in order to prevent either body of Congress to go into recess.
[Office of Congressman Landry, 6/16/11]

Barletta Blamed Missed Vote on Inoperable Blackberries and Pagers In January 2011, Lou Barletta missed a procedural vote on the House floor. According to his chief of staff, Patrick Rothwell, Barletta missed the vote because the blackberries and pagers given to Congressmen werent operational at that time. [Standard Speaker, 1/08/11] Barletta Banned Video And Audio Recording At Town Halls According to the Associated Press, in May 2011, members of the media may still record public meetings held by Republican Rep. Lou Barletta, but no one else is permitted to use video or audio recording devices. Barletta spokesman Shawn Kelly said that constituents, should be able to go to these meetings without worrying about whether a video of them will (circulate) far and wide. [] It's not a public meeting. It's a meeting held to give the congressman an opportunity to meet with the public and we will set the ground rules. ... I think this is something we are doing to help people out. [Associated Press, 5/25/11] Supported Veterinary Public Health Act In 2011, Barletta voted fore the Veterinary Public Health Amendments Act of 2011, which revises a public health workforce grant program to include a health professions school or program of veterinary public health. Barletta called the legislation a cost-effective means of supporting our farmers, protecting our livestock, and working to improve public health in Northeastern, PA. [govtrack.us, 2/08/11, The State Column, 3/13/11]10]

2012 Campaign
Received $1,000 from American Banker Association On December 27, 2011, Barletta received $1,000 from the American Bankers Association PAC. This contribution brings Barlettas total from American Bankers Association to $9,000 year-to-date. [Lou
Barletta for Congress, 2011 Year-End FEC Report, Filed 1/31/12]

Received $2,365 from Honeywell International On December 22 and December 30, 2011, Barletta received $1,365.62 and $1,000, respectively, from the Honeywell International PAC. This contribution brings Barlettas total from Honeywell International to $11,000 year-to-date. [Lou Barletta for Congress, 2011 Year-End FEC Report, Filed 1/31/12] Received $2,000 from Koch Industries

31

On December 20, 2011, Barletta received $2,000 from Koch Industries PAC. This contribution brings Barlettas total from Koch PAC to $5,000 year-to-date. [Barletta for Congress, 2011 Year-End FEC Report, Filed
1/31/12]

Received $1,000 from National Rifle Association On December 19, 2011, Barletta received $1,000 from the National Rifle Association Political Victory Fund. This contribution brings Barlettas total from the NRA to $4,500 year-to-date. [Barletta for Congress,
2011 Year-End FEC Report, Filed 1/31/12]

Democrat Announced Run Against Barletta In January 2012, Ted Gumina announced his intention to run against Barletta. Weve come to the conclusion that the only way that people of the middle class are going to have an opportunity to actually make an impact is if people from the middle class take action, he said. Gumina said job creation is the main issue in his campaign. [Times Leader, 1/27/12] Activist Announced Challenge Against Barletta In January 2012, political activist Gene Stilp announced his intent to seek the Democratic nomination to challenge Barletta. [pennlive.com, 1/09/12] Former Rep. Chris Carney Explored Comeback Bid In December 2011, former Rep. Chris Carney told supporters he planed to explore a comeback bid depending on Pennsylvanias new congressional map; Carney met with Pennsylvania political fundraisers, donors, and organized labor representatives to discuss a 2012 campaign. Carney said he would not make a decision about running until a map was released and he said that he would not challenge another Democrat. He could potentially run against Barletta. [Roll Call,
12/6/11]

Supported by National Federation of Independent Business in TV and Radio Ad Campaign In November 2011, the National Federation of Independent Business released an ad campaign thanking Barletta for fighting to block regulations that would cost small businesses. The director of Pennsylvanias NFIB Chapter said, Every politician claims to be a friend of small business. Lou Barletta has been the walking the walk. On behalf of Pennsylvanias job creators, NFIB would like to thank him for his steady support. Barletta said, Ive been working to dismantle some of the overregulation that has been crushing small businesses, like the 1099 requirement that we repealed earlier in the year. Small business is the backbone of the country. Its how were going to create jobs and grow the economy. Im glad that the NFIB -- one

32

of the nations strongest small business advocates -- recognizes the work were doing in Washington.
[Times Leader, 11/24/11]

Favored By Republican-Written Redistricting Map In November 2011, Pennsylvanias redistricting map would favor Barlettas seat by removing Democratic Scranton from his district and adding all of Luzerne County. A spokesman for Barletta said, As he has said before, all he hopes is that the new district is fair. Obviously, congressional redistricting is a fluid situation, with many different rumors and many different maps. We are waiting to see what the state legislators propose. Representative Barletta is focused on representing everyone in the current 11th district, and he will continue to work hard for all of his constituents. [Citizens Voice, 11/20/11] Partnership to Protect Medicare Released Ad in Support In November 2011, Partnership to Protect Medicare released an ad in support of Barlettas opposition to more cuts to Medicare Part B. [YouTube, 11/03/11]

33