Marco on the Issues -- Policy for You_2f6486c8-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f7FamiliesStrong families are the core of American greatness: Without strong families, America’s strong values will not endure, and the American Dream will disappear. Being raised in a stable home by a mother and a father is an incredible privilege but, unfortunately, one that is increasingly rare. Too often in recent years, through both economic and social policy, Washington has tried to compete with families rather than support and defend them. It has left American families weaker than they once were, and the institutions that teach values and support families, such as churches and civil society groups, are ailing, too.FarmersAmerica's farmers and ranchers are an important source of our country’s prosperity. Marco will get government out of the way of agriculture so that American farmers and ranchers can build their businesses, compete as exporters, and create jobs.Gun OwnersThe Second Amendment right to bear arms is one of Americans' most fundamental rights. Indeed, it is a right that reflects our country’s founding values. Opponents of gun rights often maintain that it is outdated, but it is as important as ever, and no one knows that better than America’s law-abiding gun owners. Marco understands the threats facing gun owners in part because he’s a gun-owner himself.SeniorsAmerica's senior citizens deserve the best we can offer. However, outdated, big-government policies don't offer them the best opportunities for a healthy, prosperous retirement. For current seniors, Marco will enact reforms to improve their financial well-being and protect the promises we’ve made to them. For future retirees, Marco will modernize and strengthen our programs so they’re available for tomorrow’s seniors.Small BusinessesSmall businesses are the engines of the American economy, driving innovation and creating the bulk of new jobs. Entrepreneurs and family business owners need to be free from overbearing government policy to grow and innovate. Only in a place like America can employees go to being employers, and it’s a healthy culture of free enterprise and small business ownership that makes that possible.VeteransMen and women who have served our country deserve our everlasting gratitude, and better treatment than they’re getting right now. The VA system is outdated and broken, and far too many veterans are homeless, unemployed, or impoverished.American WorkersMen and women who have served our country deserve our everlasting gratitude, and better treatment than they’re getting right now. The VA system is outdated and broken, and far too many veterans are homeless, unemployed, or impoverished.... this century becomes a New American Century_2f648b32-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f7... to reclaim the American Dream_2f648d44-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f7Middle ClassThe lives of Marco's parents were forever changed in 1956 when they came to America from Cuba. Early on, Mario and Oria Rubio struggled being in the United States and wondered whether they had made the right decision. But in the decades that followed, America proved to be that shining city on the hill as they worked their way into the middle class and were able to provide opportunities for their children that had previously been out of reach.OpportunityThe American DreamRubio's parents came from a place where this would have never been possible. In Cuba, they were not born into the right privilege that so few in that country enjoyed. But in the United States, their story became part of the historic tale we all know as the American Dream.Hard WorkGrowing up in West Miami and Las Vegas, Marco saw all of this develop from an early age. He saw that hard work and sacrifice led to achievement. He knew, firsthand, what his parents did to succeed. He watched his mother, Oria, work as a maid, cashier and stock clerk. He saw his father, Mario, work as a bartender, only to come home from work so late at night.SacrificeAchievementFamilyAbove all, he saw how their hard work transformed his family and he knew that in America, anything was possible.Fiscal ResponsibilityUnfortunately, too many of our people doubt whether these stories of hard work and opportunity can still be possible in America. The grand idea of the American Dream is in peril. Washington politicians, in both parties, have spent decades borrowing and spending the U.S. into an $18 trillion debt.ModernizationThey refuse to modernize our economy and government institutions to reflect a changing world. All of this has created deep skepticism while people struggle to keep up with the rising cost of living.ConservatismAs a U.S. Senator, Marco has led a bold offensive to institute innovative, conservative ideas to address these fundamental issues and to restore hope in the American Dream.InnovationHis ideas are firmly rooted in this simple truth -- the American economy has changed significantly in recent decades and our policies must change with it. He has proposed conservative reforms to our nation's anti-poverty laws, tax code, regulatory policies, higher education system, vital senior safety net programs and national defense. All of these efforts are aimed squarely at one thing -- restoring the hope and promise that the American Dream is real and that every American can achieve their own unique version of that dream. He believes that with a smart, limited government approach, Americans can work together to revive the founding principles that made this country great. He wants to bring it into reach of more people than ever before, and usher in a New American Century even more brilliant and prosperous than the last. What drives Marco to do this?Public ServiceFor starters, he believes that America does not owe him. Rather, he believes that he owes America for the opportunities that this country has given him and his family. He believes that this great nation has provided so much. The chance to graduate from the University of Florida and then the University of Miami's law school. The chance to marry his wife Jeanette in 1998, with whom he is raising four children: Amanda, Daniella, Anthony and Dominick. And the chance for both of them to give back through public service as a West Miami city commissioner; a Florida state legislator that rose to become majority whip, majority leader and speaker of the house; and since 2011, as a U.S. Senator. For all the opportunities this country has provided Marco and his family, including all that Jeanette has accomplished through her charitable work, he is indebted to this great country.LeadershipAcross America today, too many people are wondering if the American Dream is still possible. Marco Rubio has no doubt that it is. But make no mistake: it will require new leadership and a bold conservative reform agenda built for the 21st century.ReformChinaRestore American strength and moral clarity in our relationship with China_2f648fa6-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f71ChinaChina: The Challenges And Opportunities In The New American Century -- The U.S.-China relationship holds enormous potential. But that potential will never be realized while President Xi insists on pursuing policies that increasingly threaten U.S. national security and prevent China's citizens from fulfilling their potential. President Obama seems to not understand this. As president, I will restore American strength and moral clarity in our relationship with China and convey American resolve on the issues facing the United States and China. How: * Restore American Strength to ensure the United States remains a Pacific power. * Protect the American economy. * We must stand on the side of freedom and human rights, both inside China and on its periphery In our international economy, the ability to trade is greater than it has ever been, the ability of students to travel abroad and learn is greater than it has ever been, the ability to innovate through cooperation as well as competition is greater than it has ever been. China and America are the largest economies on earth. If our people are allowed to cooperate on their economic futures, it can only change the world for the better.StrengthRestore American Strength to ensure the United States remains a Pacific power._2f6492c6-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f71.1EconomyProtect the American economy._2f6494b0-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f71.2Freedom & Human RightsStand on the side of freedom and human rights, both inside China and on its periphery_2f649636-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f71.3Common CoreStop the federal government from pushing Common Core on states and give states and localities control over education._2f6497f8-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f72ParentsLocal CommunitiesStatesLocal School BoardsState School BoardsLet's Stop Common Core and Send Education Decisions Back to the Local Level -- Common Core has been used by the Obama Administration to turn the Department of Education into a national school board. This effort to coerce states into adhering to national curriculum standards is the wrong way to help our children attain the best education, and it must be stopped. Empowering parents, local communities and individual states is the best approach. After all, if parents are unhappy with a local or state school board's decisions, they can go to their board and get it changed. No such option exists if decisions are being made about education in Washington. In the Senate, Marco has long raised concerns about Common Core: He began raising concerns about federal coercion of the adoption of Common Core in 2011, called federal education governance -- such as a mandate to adopt Common Core -- unconstitutional, and sponsored legislation to prohibit federal coercion regarding Common Core and ensure that the Department of Education cannot impose standards or curriculum on states. As President, Marco will stop the federal government from pushing Common Core on states and give states and localities control over education:Local ControlGive states and localities control over education._2f6499ce-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f72.1Marco will give states and local communities complete autonomy in education decisionmaking and get rid of Washington bureaucrats who impose education standards and curriculum on our nation's children.Interference & MandatesEnsure no federal education funding is tied to mandates and prohibit the federal government from forcing states or local districts to adhere to principles or interfere in local education._2f649b5e-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f72.2He will ensure no federal education funding is tied to mandates and prohibit the federal government from forcing states or local districts to adhere to principles or interfere in local education.Executive OrderDirect federal agencies to stop all activity related to implementing or enforcing Common Core._2f649d2a-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f72.3He will issue an executive order directing federal agencies to stop all activity related to implementing or enforcing Common Core.CubaRestore moral clarity to our Cuba policy_2f649f14-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73CubaHow Marco Will Restore Moral Clarity to Our Cuba Policy -- The Obama administration’s new policy toward Cuba has been nothing more than unilateral concessions from the United States that will strengthen the brutal Castro regime and do nothing to help free the Cuban people. The policy is based on the illusion that more commerce and access to money and goods will translate into political freedom for the Cuban people. This will not work: The Cuban people are not free because the regime -- just as it does with every aspect of life -- manipulates and controls to its own advantage all currency that flows into the island. More economic engagement with the U.S. means that the regime’s grip on power will be strengthened for decades to come, dashing the Cuban people’s hopes for freedom and democracy. We need a reversal of the Obama administrations irresponsible policy changes, and a new president that will promote freedom for the Cuban people and punish the Castro regime for its authoritarianism and cruelty. Marco has a long record of standing up for the Cuban people. He has:PublicityHighlight the suffering of the Cuban People and Democracy Activists_2f64a0a4-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.1Cuban PeopleCuban Democracy ActivistsHighlighted the Suffering of the Cuban People and Democracy Activists by:MeetingsMeet with democracy activists_2f64a27a-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.1.1Frequently meeting with democracy activists to call attention to their work and the Castro regimes unceasing repression;InternetSupport the expansion of Internet access in Cuba_2f64a46e-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.1.2Supporting the expansion of Internet access in Cuba and ...AssistanceProtect U.S. assistance to Cuban dissidents and civil society groups_2f64a612-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.1.3Cuban DissidentsCuban Civil Society Groupsfighting to protect U.S. assistance to Cuban dissidents and civil society groups.New Cuba PolicyOppose the Obama Administration's New Cuba Policy_2f64a842-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.2Opposed the Obama Administration's New Cuba Policy by:ConcessionsReject President Obama's unilateral concessions to Cuba_2f64aa68-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.2.1Rejecting President Obama’s unilateral concessions to Cuba andAmbassadorOppose the confirmation of a U.S. ambassador without significant reforms in Cuba_2f64ac34-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.2.2U.S. Ambassador to Cubapledged to oppose the confirmation of a U.S. ambassador without significant reforms in Cuba;HearingsHold hearings to challenge the Obama administration's lack of transparency and failure to uphold its promises about the deals claimed benefits_2f64ae46-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.2.3Holding hearings to challenge the Obama administration's lack of transparency and failure to uphold its promises about the deals claimed benefits;Military & Security ServicesDeny U.S. resources to Castro's military and security services_2f64b06c-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.2.4Sponsoring legislation to deny U.S. resources to Castro's military and security services.Democracy & Human RightsBack democracy and duman rights in Cuba_2f64b260-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.3As President, Marco will: Back Democracy and Human Rights in Cuba ...Pro-Democracy MovementSupport to Cuba's pro-democracy movement_2f64b490-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.3.1Provide unconditional support to Cuba's pro-democracy movement ...Information AccessPromote greater access to uncensored information for the Cuban people_2f64b7b0-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.3.2Cuban PeopleFundingDeprive the Castro regime of funding for its repressive security state_2f64bb3e-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.3.3Castro RegimeState Sponsor of Terrorism ListRestore Cuba to the State Sponsor of Terrorism List_2f64bd82-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.4U.N.North KoreaUnless Cuba stops helping North Korea evade U.N. sanctions, harboring fugitives from American justice, and supporting designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations, it should be restored to the State Sponsor of Terrorism List.Relations & SanctionsEnd diplomatic relations with the Castro Regime and modernize sanctions_2f64bfc6-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.5Castro RegimeNormalizationReverse President Obama's attempts to normalize relations_2f64c1a6-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.5.1Reverse President Obama's attempts to normalize relations and ...Human Rights, Fugitives, Claims & JudgmentsCondition any lessening of sanctions until Cuba engages in meaningful political and human rights reform, returns U.S. fugitives, and agrees to honor American property claims and outstanding judgments_2f64c3fe-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.5.2condition any further lessening of sanctions until Cuba engages in meaningful political and human rights reform, returns U.S. fugitives, and agrees to honor American property claims and outstanding judgments;SanctionsModernize U.S. sanctions against Cuba_2f64c64c-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f73.5.3Modernize U.S. sanctions against Cuba to restore leverage and encourage true improvements in the lives of the Cuban people.DebtGet Washington spending under control_2f64c840-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f74How Marco Will Finally Get Washington Spending Under Control -- Washington’s addiction to irresponsible spending is the result not of necessity but of a stubborn resistance to reform. Our $19 trillion debt is not just a problem for government; it is a problem for the American people. It is hurting our economy today and will shackle future generations. Our $19 trillion debt amounts to over $150,000 per taxpayer. Our families and our children are on the hook for this. The bill might not come in the mail, but if we do nothing to change course, it will come in the form of higher taxes, cuts to our safety net, fewer jobs, and fewer opportunities to achieve the American Dream. For those reasons, the federal government needs to cut its spending, now. As a Senator, Marco has fought to restrain spending to protect taxpayers: He successfully blocked the massive taxpayer-funded insurance bailouts in ObamaCare and voted against budget bills filled with wasteful spending and crony capitalist giveaways. He has been named a Taxpayer Super Hero by the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste and a Taxpayers’ Friend by the National Taxpayers Union. Some of Marco’s ideas to get spending under control:Balanced Budget AmendmentFight for a Balanced Budget Amendment_2f64caca-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f74.1TaxesForce Washington to live within its means without raising taxes_2f64cd40-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f74.2ObamaCareRepeal ObamaCare and cut trillions in spending on the job-destroying law_2f64cf48-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f74.3Line-Item VetoPush for line-item veto authority to cut wasteful spending_2f64d1d2-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f74.4EarmarksPermanently ban pork-barrel earmarks_2f64d43e-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f74.5Federal WorkforceReduce the size of the federal workforce in Washington_2f64d646-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f74.6Spending BillsPrevent massive, irresponsible spending bills_2f64d8e4-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f74.7Waste & DebtAllow states to use wasteful federal funds to pay down the national debt_2f64db6e-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f74.8Corporate WelfareOppose corporate welfare like the New Deal-era Export-Import Bank_2f64de5c-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f74.9Export-Import BankBudget RulesReform budget rules to provide taxpayers with the true costs of government spending and the benefits of pro-growth policies_2f64e104-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f74.10Medicare & Social SecurityReform and save Medicare and Social Security for future generations without impacting those in or near retirement_2f64e384-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f74.11Eminent DomainStop Eminent Domain abuse_2f64e596-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f75Property OwnersThe fundamental right to private property has been under assault for years through government's abuses of eminent domain. Eminent domain is the authority vested in government to force the sale of private property. While this authority can be a necessary evil in rare cases related to public development, such as the building of crucial infrastructure, its modern use far exceeds this limitation. Today, it is often wielded by crony capitalist politicians to benefit wealthy and powerful private developers. Like the defense of other crucial rights, conservative efforts to defend private property are grounded deep in the history of our nation. In fact, abuses of this right were one of the catalysts for the American Revolution. As the first Continental Congress declared, "[The colonists] are entitled to life, liberty and property: and they have never ceded to any foreign power . . . a right to dispose of either without their consent." After being founded, in part, to protect these rights, our government has strayed far from this purpose. Compromise after compromise from elected officials in both parties has resulted in a government that believes it has the power to seize your property and sell it to rent-seeking private interests.Property RightsFight to protect private property rights_2f64e848-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f75.1Supreme Court JusticesNominate conservative justices to the Supreme Court who will also fight to protect private property rights_2f64eb04-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f75.2Supreme CourtEnergyTake full advantage of our energy potential_2f64ed20-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76Powering the New American Century -- America is blessed with abundant energy resources. Thanks to new technology and innovation, our country is poised to become the world's energy superpower even as our emissions have been declining. If we harness our energy potential in the right way, and let innovation flourish, we will ensure that energy is affordable for consumers and families, help businesses grow and create jobs, protect our environment, strengthen our national security, and increase America's influence around the world. Affordable, reliable American energy has sparked a manufacturing renaissance, enabling America's small businesses to compete in the global economy. To make the 21st century a New American Century, we must take full advantage of our energy potential. Marco has long opposed big-government efforts to take over our energy economy, like a cap-and-trade program that would amount to a massive energy tax. On Day One in office, Marco will begin to undo the damage done by President Obama’s Environmental Protection Agency, and begin implementing his comprehensive energy plan... Nowhere is the disconnect between the potential of our people and the priorities of politicians as large as in energy. Plans pushed by many Democrats including Hillary Clinton are premised on the outdated and unrealistic notion that our energy potential can only be seized by the federal government handing out subsidies to favored companies and imposing new mandates and taxes on others. No matter which party is in power, Washington picking winners and losers is a recipe for failure. Rather than distort the market, the government should instead promote competition. Policies that expand access to oil, gas, and coal development can also expand access to the development of wind, solar, nuclear, and hydropower energy. Modernizing regulations and permitting processes will help develop both traditional and alternative energy sources and encourage energy diversity. Hillary Clinton’s energy vision is stuck in the past. Her plans would restrict consumer choice, grow the federal bureaucracy, and make energy more expensive for Americans — a burden that will fall heavily on seniors, minority communities, and the working poor. The Clinton-Obama approach has never worked, and never will. Government must focus on the kind of basic research it does well, and let innovators take care of the rest. To achieve our full energy potential in the 21st century, Marco will follow three guiding principles: optimizing America’s resources, minimizing government bureaucracy, and maximizing private innovation.ResourcesOptimize America's resources_2f64efdc-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76.1Onshore EnergyEmpower States and Tribes to Control Onshore Energy Development Within Their Borders_2f64f284-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76.1.1StatesTribesOffshore DrillingRewrite the Obama Administration's Flawed Five-Year Offshore Drilling Plan_2f64f4a0-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76.1.2Keystone PipelineImmediately Approve the Keystone XL Pipeline_2f64f766-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76.1.3Natural Gas ExportsExpedite Approval of American Natural Gas Exports_2f64f9f0-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76.1.4Climate NegotiationsDefend U.S. Interests in International Climate Negotiations_2f64fcca-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76.1.5Energy SecurityBolster the Energy Security of U.S. Allies_2f64ff22-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76.1.6U.S. AlliesTTIP NegotiationsConclude TTIP Negotiations Without Restrictions on Access to U.S. Energy Exports_2f650166-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76.1.7U.S. Energy ExportersBureaucracyMinimize Government Bureaucracy_2f650422-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76.2Regulatory BudgetCreate a National Regulatory Budget to Limit the Power of Unelected Regulators_2f6506a2-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76.2.1Carbon MandatesStop President Obama's Carbon Mandates_2f6508f0-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76.2.2Environmental LitigationExpose the True Costs of Environmental Litigation to Taxpayers_2f650af8-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76.2.3Taxpayers Environmental ReviewsSimplify and Improve the Environmental Review Process_2f650d82-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76.2.4InnovationMaximize Private Innovation_2f650fc6-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76.3Higher EducationReform Our Outdated Higher Education System to Support Energy Jobs of the Future_2f6511ce-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76.3.1Higher Education InstitutionsNew TechnologiesFacilitate Private-Sector-Led Development of New Technologies_2f651458-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76.3.2Technology SectorTaxesOverhaul the Tax Code and Cut Taxes for Business of All Sizes_2f6516b0-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f76.3.3BusinessesForeign PolicyPrevent war_2f6518ae-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f77What Will Guide Marco's Foreign Policy? American strength is a means of preventing war, not promoting it. Weakness, on the other hand, is the friend of danger and the enemy of peace. Since the end of the Cold War, the threats facing America have changed, but the need for American strength has not. It has only grown more pressing as the world has grown more interconnected. Today, as never before, foreign policy is domestic policy. It is up to our next president to right the wrongs done by our current one. It is up to our next president to properly fund and modernize our military. It is up to our next president to restore our people’s faith in the promise and power of the American ideal. Three Pillars of the Rubio Doctrine:American Strength_2f651b42-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f77.1SequestrationUndo the damage caused by sequestration by returning to Secretary Gates' fiscal year 2012 budget baseline._2f651d9a-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f77.1.1Force ModernizationModernize our forces to remain on the cutting edge of the land, sea, air, cyberspace, and outer space domains._2f651fac-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f77.1.2Patriot ActEmpower our intelligence community by permanently extending Section 215 of the Patriot Act._2f652222-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f77.1.3Intelligence CommunityAmerican Prosperity_2f65247a-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f77.2TPP & TTIPComplete the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP)._2f652678-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f77.2.1International ViolationsOppose any violations of international waters, airspace, cyberspace, or outer space._2f6528ee-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f77.2.2American Values_2f652c40-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f77.3ChinaDemand that China allow true freedom for its 1.3 billion people._2f652e52-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f77.3.1ChinaRadical IslamCall the source of atrocities in the Middle East by its real name: radical Islam._2f6530fa-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f77.3.2Middle EastHealth CareReform Health Care for the 21st Century_2f653352-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f78ObamaCare has revealed the painful consequences of placing our faith in big government. Government's ambitions may be limitless, but its abilities are not. The free market, when allowed to function as intended, has no such limitations. It has an inexhaustible ability to empower our people and meet their needs. America needs health care reform that will cut back government’s role and harness the forces of competition to keep health care prices low and spur innovation. That means not just repealing ObamaCare, but replacing it with a market-driven alternative and reforming Medicare and Medicaid for the 21st Century. Marco has a long record of fighting to repeal ObamaCare: * Marco is committed to fully repealing ObamaCare and to replacing it with consumer-centered health reforms that expand coverage and lower costs. Ending this failed law will be an urgent priority of his administration. * One of the first votes Marco took in the Senate was to repeal ObamaCare, and he has fought to replace the failed law ever since. * In addition to supporting the full repeal of ObamaCare, Marco has voted to specifically repeal harmful components of the law, including its devastating cuts to Medicare Advantage, the job-killing medical device tax, and restrictions on patient-centered care, including new taxes on FSAs and HSAs. * Marco was the first to warn of a taxpayer bailout of the insurance industry in ObamaCare, and succeeded in stopping it. His efforts have already saved taxpayers $2.5 billion.ObamaCareRepeal and Replace ObamaCare_2f653564-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f78.1Tax CreditExpand access to affordable, quality health coverage by providing every American with an advanceable, refundable tax credit that can be used to purchase insurance._2f65380c-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f78.1.1Costs, Innovation & AccessReduce health care costs, promote innovation, and ensure access for the most vulnerable ..._2f653a96-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f78.1.2Health PlansExpand access to consumer-centered health plans_2f653cb2-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f78.1.2.1RegulationsReform insurance regulations_2f653f5a-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f78.1.2.2Pre-Existing ConditionsPut protections in place to ensure those with pre-existing health conditions can get access to affordable coverage._2f6541d0-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f78.1.2.3MedicaidPromote innovation in the Medicaid program by giving states a per-capita block grant, which preserves funding for Medicaid's unique populations while freeing states from Washington mandates._2f6543f6-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f78.1.3StatesMedicaid RecipientsMedicareSave and Strengthen Medicare For The Seniors of Today and Tomorrow_2f654694-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f78.2SeniorsCurrent SeniorsStrongly defend traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage for current seniors._2f65490a-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f78.2.1SeniorsChoiceStrengthen Medicare for future seniors by providing them with choices between a variety of private plans and traditional, fee-for-service Medicare._2f654b30-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f78.2.2Future SeniorsCompetition & SustainabilityPlace Medicare on a pathway to fiscal sustainability by promoting market competition in the program._2f654e32-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f78.2.3This will ensure it is there for generations of seniors to come.Higher EducationOverhaul Our Higher Education System_2f6550b2-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79Here's How Marco Wants to Overhaul Our Outdated Higher Education System -- Our higher education system is outdated and broken in multiple ways. It is too expensive, too time consuming, and too inflexible for busy single parents and working adults. At a time when higher education is a requirement for most high-paying jobs, too many Americans do not have the time or money to earn a degree, and too many degrees do not lead to jobs. Democrats’ approach to fixing higher education is the same one that has been tried in Washington for decades: raise taxes and pour more money into the current outdated system rather than take the initiative to modernize it. Marco has a different approach. As President, he will:IncentivesSimplify Existing Incentives to Help Students Pursue Higher Education_2f6553c8-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.1Tax IncentivesConsolidate the tangled system of higher education tax incentives into one simple provision for post-secondary education._2f6556b6-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.1.1Financial AidReduce complexity of the federal financial aid application._2f65595e-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.1.2College DecisionsEquip Students and Families with Information Necessary to Make Informed College Decisions_2f655b8e-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.2InformationMake existing higher education information (including graduation rates for nontraditional students, transfers rates, student debt, post-graduation earnings, and likely employment outcomes) available online in an easily-accessible format to help students and families make well-informed decisions._2f655e5e-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.2.1Student Loan DebtReduce Burden of Student Loan Debt by Establishing Automatic IncomeBased Repayment_2f656110-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.3Income-Based RepaymentEstablish income-based repayment (IBR) as the universal repayment method for federal student loans_2f65635e-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.3.1Loan PaymentsEmpower new borrowers to make loan payments in proportion to what they earn _2f656656-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.3.2Loan ConsolidationGive graduates the option of consolidating existing loans into the new, simplified IBR system._2f6568f4-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.3.3AccreditationReform Outdated Accreditation System to Accommodate Non-traditional Education_2f656b2e-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.4Innovative LearningPromote innovative learning programs by establishing a new accrediting entity to ensure quality of these courses, review eligibility for financial aid, and make credits transferable into the traditional system._2f656e26-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.4.1Student SuccessInvest in Student Success_2f6570d8-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.5Student Investment PlansAllow students to apply for innovative "Student Investment Plans" from approved investors to help Americans finance postsecondary education without taking on the burden of student loans_2f65733a-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.5.1Repayment FrameworkEstablish legal, accountable framework for students to repay loans based on what they earn after college_2f657646-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.5.2ModernizationModernize Higher Education System to Fit 21st Century Economy_2f657a06-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.6Career & Vocational EducationIncrease access to career and vocational education_2f657c5e-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.6.1Apprenticeships & TrainingBetter utilize apprenticeships and valuable on-the-job training_2f657f88-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.6.2AccessEase access to state colleges and online educational opportunities_2f658262-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.6.3State CollegesHiringIncrease hiring of non-degree holding workers._2f6584ce-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f79.6.4Non-Degree Holding WorkersImmigrationFix America's immigration system_2f65880c-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f710How Marco Will Start Securing Our Border on Day One -- Marco has consistently advocated fixing America’s immigration system, beginning with securing our border, enforcing immigration laws in the workplace, and implementing effective visa tracking systems. Every sovereign nation has the right to set its immigration laws and enforce them, and Marco knows first-hand that enforcing our immigration laws is not anti-immigrant. Starting on Day One of his presidency, Marco will be focused on immigration security... These priorities have only become more important in light of the threat from sophisticated terrorist groups such as ISIS attempting to exploit our legal immigrant system or cross our borders illegally. That means, for instance, that the U.S. cannot and should not accept refugees from Syria unless it is possible to vet them. That principle will govern Marco's approach to immigration security more generally: if we do not know who you are and why you are coming, you are not getting into America. Of course, fixing America’s immigration system goes beyond just a serious, tough approach to border security.Executive OrdersCancel President Obama's unconstitutional executive orders_2f658afa-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f710.1Sanctuary CitiesEliminate federal funding for sanctuary cities_2f658d70-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f710.2Sanctuary CitiesCriminal Illegal AliensDeport criminal illegal aliens_2f6590a4-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f710.3Criminal Illegal AliensBorder Patrol AgentsHire 20,000 new Border Patrol agents_2f659360-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f710.4Border Patrol AgentsBorder WallsFinish all 700 miles of walls on our southern border_2f6595c2-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f710.5Visa TrackingImplement an entry-exit visa tracking system_2f6598ec-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f710.6eVerifyImplement a mandatory eVerify system_2f659ba8-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f710.7Cameras & SensorsInstall $4 billion in new cameras and sensors on the border_2f659e14-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f710.8InternetKeep the Internet Free and Innovative_2f65a29c-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f711Marco Will Fight to Keep the Internet Free and Innovative -- America and the global economy is going through a transformation of a scale and speed not seen since the Industrial Revolution. A major reason for that is the rise of the Internet. There is almost no corner of the economy untouched by what’s happening online — a development that has caused some disruption, but also huge increases in prosperity, choice, and convenience for all Americans. Building a New American Economy will require protecting the Internet as a conduit for innovation, not smothering it with new taxes and regulations. Marco will fight to protect a free Internet, strengthen our cyber security capabilities, block new taxes that will raise costs for consumers and businesses online, and protect innovations like the sharing economy from overzealous regulators. As President, Marco will:Internet FreedomVigorously Defend Internet Freedom_2f65a56c-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f711.1Net NeutralityRepeal President Obama's Net Neutrality takeover of the Internet, which will hamper innovation and raise costs for Internet users_2f65a7e2-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f711.1.1Internet GovernanceBuild off unanimous support of a resolution he introduced (adopted unanimously by the U.S. Senate) to fight proposals from foreign governments to gut current multi-stakeholder governance of the Internet._2f65ab3e-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f711.1.2Cyber AttacksStrengthen American Response to Cyber Attacks_2f65ae18-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f711.2Information SharingEncourage information sharing between the federal government and the private sector to adequately respond to cyber threats, while maintaining privacy protections_2f65b098-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f711.2.1Cyber AttacksUse American power to respond harshly to international cyber attacks on American citizens, businesses, and governments._2f65b408-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f711.2.2Wireless SpectrumReallocate Wireless Spectrum to Meet Commercial Needs_2f65b6ec-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f711.3Reallocate spectrum controlled by the federal government for commercial wireless services and increase transparency.Internet TaxesFight Threat of New Taxes on the Internet_2f65b96c-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f711.4Marketplace Fairness ActOppose the Marketplace Fairness Act, a massive, new Internet sales tax that will crush small and medium-sized businesses and kill jobs._2f65bcf0-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f711.4.1IranUndo the deal with Iran_2f65bfe8-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f712IranAs President, I'll Reimpose Sanctions On Iran On Day One -- As the vivid threats and evidence of chaos in Iran sows instability throughout the Middle East, President Obama and his enablers in the U.S. Senate continue to claim that their deal will not benefit Iran’s terrorism apparatus and that it is in our national interest. Despite the willingness of Democrats to provide cover for the White House, we still have an opportunity to put the Senate on record. Instead of just giving up and conceding defeat, I’ve argued that we need to try everything in our power to prevent a flawed deal that will have devastating consequences for American security from taking effect. It is so important that our next President be someone who understands the threats we face and who is willing to fight to defend our security and our interests. I have stated clearly that I will begin to undo the deal with Iran on day one: * Iran's leaders will have to choose between having a nuclear weapons program and having an economy. * I will back this up with a credible threat of military force if Iran decides to ramp up its program. * I will work with Congress to impose tougher sanctions on Iran for its support for terrorism and human rights abuses, rather than treating Congress as an afterthought as this administration has and as far too many Republicans have blindly accepted.Forced ChoiceRequire Iran's leaders to choose between having a nuclear weapons program and having an economy._2f65c272-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f712.1Threat of ForceBack up [the forced choice] with a credible threat of military force if Iran decides to ramp up its program._2f65c5e2-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f712.2SanctionsWork with Congress to impose tougher sanctions on Iran for its support for terrorism and human rights abuses_2f65c9ca-d8f3-11e5-afce-15fb842546f712.3ISIS_d316249f-da78-11e5-82a1-bff3b57b6f1013Marco's Plan to Defeat ISIS -- The chaos in Iraq and Syria over the last several years has allowed the terrorist group ISIS, also known as the Islamic State or ISIL, to become a threat of global proportions, with the capacity to inspire and carry out attacks here in the United States. The December 2015 mass shooting in San Bernardino, where the attackers were reportedly inspired by ISIS, demonstrates how quickly this threat has come to our shores. Meanwhile, overseas, ISIS has dealt untold suffering and cruelty to millions of innocents in Iraq and Syria, especially religious minorities. ISIS is now spreading its influence across the Middle East: in Egypt, Libya, Afghanistan, and elsewhere. Most worryingly, the attacks in Paris and the airliner bombing in November 2015 proved that ISIS has the ambitions and capabilities to execute large-scale attacks against the West and harm Americans here at home. President Obama’s proposals to fight ISIS, after his own disengagement from the Middle East allowed the group to rise in the first place, have been woefully insufficient. America cannot afford to let a transnational threat like ISIS survive, hold territory, and grow. Containment will not work. Instead, the U.S. needs to take the lead on a strategy, in conjunction with our local allies, that will destroy ISIS and deprive it and other terror groups of safe havens. This will require a larger number of American troops on the ground, working with the Kurds, Sunni tribes, and other partners. If America does not make this our fight, the West will not win it. The conflict is not just about ISIS, either: ISIS is only the most prominent manifestation of radical Islam, an ideology bent on destroying the West and eradicating its values. In this clash of civilizations, either we win, or they win. As Senator, Marco has repeatedly highlighted the threat that ISIS presents and called for greater efforts to defeat it. As President, Marco will set out to destroy ISIS, not hope it disappears or collapses of its own volition. He will:Iraq & SyriaConfront ISIS in Iraq and Syria_d3162bec-da78-11e5-82a1-bff3b57b6f1013.1That means establishing a coordinated political-military strategy against ISIS in tandem with Sunni Arab and local partners in the region.Military_d316325e-da78-11e5-82a1-bff3b57b6f1013.1.1On the military front, Marco will:CoalitionBuild a multinational coalition of countries willing to send troops into Iraq and Syria with embedded U.S. forces and U.S. logistical and intelligence support to aid local fighters on the ground in destroying ISIS safe havens_d316325f-da78-11e5-82a1-bff3b57b6f1013.1.1.1IraqSyriaAirstrikesExpand airstrikes in Syria and Iraq, deploying forward air controllers to call in air support_d31639d4-da78-11e5-82a1-bff3b57b6f1013.1.1.2SyriaIraqBashar al-AssadDevelop a plan to oust Bashar al-Assad from power, including ramping up training of Syrian rebels to fight both Assad and ISIS and to establish safe zones within Syria_d31639d5-da78-11e5-82a1-bff3b57b6f1013.1.1.3SyriaArmsProvide arms directly to Sunni tribal and Kurdish forces if Baghdad fails to support them._d3164118-da78-11e5-82a1-bff3b57b6f1013.1.1.4Sunni Tribal ForcesKurdish ForcesPolitics_d3164119-da78-11e5-82a1-bff3b57b6f1013.1.2On the political front:ISIS Recruitment & PropagandaCounter ISIS recruitment and propaganda by broadcasting U.S. victories, showing the world that ISIS is not invincible_d3164780-da78-11e5-82a1-bff3b57b6f1013.1.2.1SunnisWork with Baghdad to increase Sunni inclusion and autonomy for the provinces_d3164781-da78-11e5-82a1-bff3b57b6f1013.1.2.2Iranian InfluencePush back against Iranian influence in Iraq, which only stokes further conflict_d3164db6-da78-11e5-82a1-bff3b57b6f1013.1.2.3IraqIranCoordinationCoordinate with regional allies to plan for Assad's fall_d3164db7-da78-11e5-82a1-bff3b57b6f1013.1.2.4Ethnic & Religious MinoritiesAdvocate on behalf of and protect ethnic and religious minorities throughout the region_d3165392-da78-11e5-82a1-bff3b57b6f1013.1.2.5Middle EastStop the Spread of ISIS Across the Middle East_e9f0bf98-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1013.2Military & Diplomatic EffortsEnhance military and diplomatic efforts to prevent ISIS from further entrenching itself in Afghanistan and Libya, as well as take action to ensure ISIS does not spread to countries such as Jordan_e9f0c88a-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1013.2.1AfghanistanLibyaJordanISIS FinanceTarget ISIS's financial reserves with sanctions and asset freezes and continue to undermine ISIS's attempts to exploit oil resources_e9f0cc86-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1013.2.2Ideological PushbackEngage in global ideological pushback by exposing ISIS's war crimes and sex trafficking and recruiting disaffected former members to tell their stories. _e9f0cfba-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1013.2.3HomelandProtect the Homeland_e9f0d528-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1013.3Regional PartnershipsWork with regional partners to prevent foreign jihadists from traveling between their homes and the battlefields_e9f0d8a2-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1013.3.1Intelligence CapabilitiesStrengthen U.S. intelligence capabilities to ensure that the U.S. government has the capabilities to track terrorists plotting attacks inside the United States_e9f0db72-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1013.3.2Lone Wolf AttackersBoost domestic efforts to detect potential "lone wolf" attackers_e9f0e0ae-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1013.3.3PropagandaIncrease efforts to counter ISIS propaganda and recruitment of individuals inside the United States_e9f0e54a-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1013.3.4RefugeesHalt new admissions of refugees from Iraq and Syria, until they can be vetted effectively enough to filter out terrorist infiltrators_e9f0e856-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1013.3.5IraqSyriaVisa Waiver ProgramEnhance the security screening required of travelers coming to the U.S. through the Visa Waiver Program_e9f0ed4c-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1013.3.6IsraelSupport and safeguard Israel_e9f0f080-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1014IsraelWe have a national security interest in making sure Israel is strong, and we have a moral obligation to keep the promise made in the wake of the Holocaust for a safe and secure nation for the Jewish people. Sadly, even as Israelis are facing daily Palestinian terrorist attacks, that commitment to Israel has been lacking from the current administration. Israel deserves our support and respect. If we are perceived as not standing with Israel, what realistically could any of our other allies expect from us? It's time to reaffirm our commitment to Israel’s continued strength and prosperity. Marco will:Alliance & Self-DefenseStrengthen the U.S.-Israel Alliance and Israel's Self-Defense_e9f0f332-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1014.1Iran DealRevoke President Obama's Flawed Iran Deal_e9f0f7a6-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1014.2TerrorismDefend Israel's Efforts to Combat Terrorism_e9f0fae4-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1014.3Jewish StateFight Efforts to Delegitimize the Jewish State_e9f0fdbe-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1014.4U.S. EmbassyPush to Move the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem_e9f101f6-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1014.5JobsCreate jobs in the New American Century_e9f10552-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1015American CompaniesSmall BusinessesNational Federation of Independent BusinessSmall Business & Entrepreneurship CouncilTo build the most innovation-friendly economy in the world, we must build the most business-friendly economy in the world. Right now we have the exact opposite. The United States has the highest corporate tax rate in the developed world. We have a tax code that punishes American companies for competing in the global economy, and a regulatory system that prevents small businesses -- the primary engines of innovation and job creation -- from competing against established players. Marco has a 100 percent rating with both the National Federation of Independent Business and the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council.Executive OrdersReverse the damage President Obama has done by repealing his unconstitutional and illegal executive orders that are hurting job creation_e9f1098a-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1015.1Tax ReformEnact pro-growth, pro-family tax reform that cuts taxes for all businesses to 25 percent and allows all businesses to immediately expense every dollar that they invest in the economy._e9f10de0-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1015.2VAT & Internet TaxesResist calls to enact a European-style Value-Added Tax (VAT) and new taxes on the Internet._e9f1113c-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1015.3RegulationsPut a ceiling on the amount U.S. regulations can cost our economy, allowing businesses to grow without interference from Washington._e9f11402-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1015.4Higher EducationModernize higher education to equip workers with the skills they need in the 21st century._e9f11948-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1015.5EnergyFully utilize our energy resources and embrace the 21st century energy economy._e9f11d08-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1015.6Supreme Court NomineesStand Against Confirmation of Any Obama Supreme Court Nominee_e9f12000-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1016Supreme CourtNominating judges is one of the president's most important responsibilities, and in 2016 the question of whom the next president will choose to defend the Constitution is more important than ever. The next president will probably appoint at least two and perhaps as many as four Supreme Court justices, and these new justices may well serve through the year 2050. These appointments will shape the Court -- and our country -- for decades to come. The stakes rose even higher with the tragic passing of Justice Antonin Scalia, one of the finest judges in American history. President Obama’s two Supreme Court appointments have led a disturbing trend of liberal lawlessness, and Marco has made it clear that the Senate should not confirm any nominee to the Court for the rest of President Obama’s term. The next president will have the chance to set the balance of the Court for decades, and Marco will do so by appointing men and women in the mold of Justice Scalia. Limited government, religious liberty, the right to life, the Second Amendment, federalism, and other fundamental principles all depend in part on the composition of the Supreme Court in years to come. If a liberal Democrat -- or a careless Republican -- makes these next Supreme Court appointments, all of these principles will be in jeopardy. As president, Marco will:Justices & JudgesNominate Supreme Court justices and lower-court judges who will apply the Constitution as originally written and understood, and are committed to:_e9f1253c-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1016.1Separation of Powers & FederalismRestore the original constitutional structure of separation of powers and federalism_e9f12d34-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1016.1.1LimitationsKeep the federal government within its original, limited sphere_e9f13748-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1016.1.2Constitutional RightsEnforce the rights that actually appear in the constitutional text, rather than inventing rights that do not._e9f1382e-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1016.1.3Term LimitsFight for term limits on federal judges, to restrain the power of any one judge or president to shape law for decades._e9f13be4-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1016.2DOJ LawyersAppoint well regarded lawyers to lead the Department of Justice who respect these same principles, including a Solicitor General who will argue on behalf of these principles before the Supreme Court._e9f13e6e-da97-11e5-92a6-d470b67b6f1016.3Department of JusticeSolicitor GeneralK-12 EducationImprove K-12 Education Through School Choice_ba459d08-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1017K-12 SchoolsAmerica’s public education system is holding us back in the 21st Century. For millions of disadvantaged American children, the system is simply a disaster. For millions of others, American schools aren’t nearly as good as they could be. Much of the current system is outdated, it’s denying opportunity to those who need it most, and it’s holding back our economy. A quality education is more important than ever, because the jobs of tomorrow will require more education and skills than ever. We need to allow charter schools and other innovative schools to flourish, and the key to that is empowering parents. Parents should be the ultimate decision makers on where their children go to school. Promoting school choice will provide opportunity to poorer communities, help special needs children, and raise quality across the system. In the Senate, Marco has . . . Promoted Local Control by: * Supporting bills to give states flexibility and autonomy in their education plans * Opposing the Obama administration’s use of waivers to force Obama-preferred policies onto the states * Pushing legislation to block the use of new waivers not authorized by Congress. Boosted School Choice by supporting legislation to: * Create school-choice tax credits * Increase the availability of charter schools, * Expand the portability of school funding for low-income children, military children, and special-needs childrenSchool ChoiceInstitute School Choice Reforms_ba45a1a4-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1017.1Scholarship ProgramCreate a national school choice scholarship program_ba45a974-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1017.1.1Parent ChoiceEnsure parents have the ability to send their children to school that best suits their educational needs_ba45b28e-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1017.1.2ParentsK-12 Decision-MakingGet the Federal Government out of K-12 Decision-Making_ba45bdf6-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1017.2Federal MandatesProhibit federal mandates on curriculum or standards for states and local educational agencies_ba45c2ce-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1017.2.1StatesLocal Educational AgenciesStudent PrivacyProtect student privacy from misuse by third-party vendors or other non-education related entities_ba45c54e-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1017.2.2StudentsInnovationSupport Innovation in K-12 Education_ba45c9c2-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1017.3Alternative LearningSupport virtual learning, home schooling, and blended learning opportunities for K-12 education_ba45ce5e-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1017.3.1Students with DisabilitiesPromote better learning opportunities for students with disabilities_ba45d5f2-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1017.3.2Students with DisabilitiesLifeProtect Life at Every Stage_ba45da52-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1018Protecting life defines who we want to be as a society. All life is worthy of protection, and all life enjoys God’s love. Marco believes that Roe v. Wade was not only morally wrong, but it was a poorly decided legal precedent and should be overturned. Marco has a record of supporting pro-life policies, and will continue to do so in public and private life. Marco believes that as a nation we must always come down on the side of life. We must speak up for those who cannot speak up for themselves._ba45df02-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f10MilitaryRestore and Modernize American Strength_ba45e6c8-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019American strength is crucial to American national security, our economic prosperity, and the security and prosperity of the globe. No other nation can deter global conflict by its presence alone; no other nation can offer the security that America can. No other nation can be trusted to defend peace, protect global commerce, and advance liberty. That responsibility means that our men and women in uniform must be equipped to meet the growing and changing array of actors that never cease to threaten our people, our allies, and our sacred principles of freedom and opportunity for all. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case today: defense spending has fallen dramatically on President Obama’s watch and our forces have been reduced and suffered readiness challenges even as threats abroad increase. Our military therefore needs a serious program of reinvestment and modernization -- boosting the size of our forces to do the jobs we ask them to do, and modernizing them to meet the threats they will face so that when efforts to deter conflict fail, they are never sent into a fair fight. Marco has a long record of supporting the rebuilding and modernizing of our military: In the Senate, Marco has: Opposed President Obama's Massive Defense Cuts by supporting legislation to replace devastating defense cuts with smarter spending cuts. Specifically, he led the effort with Senator Tom Cotton to increase defense spending in FY16 to the level recommended by former Secretary of Defense Gates and the bipartisan National Defense Panel. Fought for Our Men and Women in Uniform by supporting efforts to increase military compensation and ensuring that off the battlefield veterans have the best possible care available, with greater accountability from the VA and more choices. Read more about Marco’s plans for the VA here.Military StrengthRestore Military Strength_ba45ec54-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.1BudgetWork to return to Secretary Gates' fiscal year 2012 budget baseline over the course of his first term and begin to undo the damage caused by $1 trillion in indiscriminate defense cuts._ba45f104-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.1.1Secretary GatesO&M, Readiness & ModernizationPlug critical operations and maintenance shortfalls, restore military readiness through accelerated training and exercises, and make targeted investments in urgent modernization priorities._ba45f8ca-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.1.2Full Spectrum ForceBuild a "full spectrum" force able to maintain security simultaneously in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East._ba45fd3e-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.1.3EuropeAsiaMiddle EastNavyRecapitalize the Navy_ba4602ca-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.2NavyFleetImmediately begin to increase the size of the Navy to a minimum of 323 ships by 2024._ba460a9a-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.2.1PacificWork with our allies in Asia to forward deploy a second aircraft carrier in the Pacific while increasing the carrier force from 10 to 12._ba460f22-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.2.2Allies in AsiaMediterranean SeaRestore continuous, credible naval combat power to the Mediterranean Sea._ba461490-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.2.3Ballistic SubmarinesBuild the new Ohio-class Replacement (ORP) ballistic submarine to ensure a credible and survivable 21st century strategic deterrent._ba461c6a-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.2.4Attack SubmarinesBuild at least two attack submarines every year to preserve America's undersea dominance amid intensifying naval competition._ba4620d4-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.2.5F-35B & Amphibious-AssaultFully integrate the F-35B and push ahead with development of a new amphibious-assault vehicle._ba462584-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.2.6Amphibious FleetBuild an amphibious fleet of 38 ships (from today's 30) to meet the Marine Corps wartime lift requirement._ba462d54-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.2.7Marine CorpsCruisersReverse reductions to the operating status of 11 of our 22 current cruisers._ba4631d2-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.2.8Munitions & MissilesReplenish depleted inventories of critical munitions while accelerating development and procurement of new advanced strike and anti-ship missiles._ba463682-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.2.9Maintenance & ModernizationFully fund Navy-Marine Corps maintenance and modernization accounts._ba463f60-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.2.10NavyMarine CorpsAir ForceModernize the Air Force_ba464410-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.3Air ForceIntelligence, Surveillance & ReconnaissanceInvest in better Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance capabilities at the theater and strategic levels._ba4648de-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.3.1ReadinessPrioritize returning Air Force readiness to pre-Obama levels._ba4650ea-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.3.2F-35AAccelerate F-35A procurement._ba465662-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.3.3Long Range Strike BomberDevelop and field the Long Range Strike Bomber capable of both conventional and nuclear missions to replace our current aging fleet of B-52, B-1, and B-2 bombers._ba466076-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.3.4ReposturingReposture the tactical Air Force for increased presence in Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Northeast Asia._ba4664ea-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.3.5EuropeMiddle EastSoutheast AsiaNortheast AsiaKC-46 TankersEnsure that the KC-46 tanker program stays on track to replace the aging KC-135 fleet._ba4669c2-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.3.6Long-Range Stand-OffEnsure development of the Long-Range Stand-Off weapon._ba4671ce-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.3.7Ground ForcesStrengthen the Ground Forces_ba46766a-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.4Military CutsReverse the current cuts and maintain the Marine Corps and the Army at their pre-9/11 end-strengths of 182,000 and 490,000 respectively._ba467b42-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.4.1Marine CorpsArmyInternational PartnershipsStrengthen international partnerships to reduce the need to deploy ground troops._ba468330-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.4.2EuropeWork to return a corps headquarters to Europe and station additional BCTs in Eastern Europe to deter Russian aggression._ba4688e4-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.4.3EuropeEastern EuropePacificReexamine the Army's mobility and prepositioning to respond to crises in the Pacific._ba469118-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.4.4ArmySpecial OperationsContinue to invest in Army Special Operations capabilities to remain at the cutting edge of the continuing war on terrorism._ba46980c-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.4.5ArmyProficiencyMaintain the Army's proficiency across the full spectrum of war in order to combat state actors, defeat non-state threats, and shape the security environment to America's advantage._ba469d48-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.4.6ArmyAcquisition, Vehicles & HelicoptersRevamp the Army's acquisition system and specifically look at options to modernize its aging vehicle and helicopter fleets._ba46a298-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.4.7ArmyPersonnel & BenefitsReform Military Personnel and Benefits_ba46ab8a-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.5Benefits & CareersReform the military benefit structure and military career paths and specializations to attract and retain high quality personnel to the military, while preserving a sustainable balance between training and procurement needs._ba46b17a-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.5.1Retirement, Education & HealthcareContinue recent efforts to reform military retirement, education, and healthcare on the basis of the recommendations of the Military Compensation and Retirement Modernization Commission._ba46b6d4-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.5.2Military Compensation and Retirement Modernization CommissionVeteransMilitary Service MembersDepartment of Veterans AffairsEnsure the Department of Veterans Affairs is accountable and that our veterans have access to the best treatment possible when they return from the battlefield._ba46bfc6-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.5.3VeteransDepartment of Veterans AffairsBureaucracyTransform the Pentagon Bureaucracy_ba46c6f6-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.6PentagonWorkforceOptimize the Pentagon workforce by shrinking the Pentagon bureaucracy and achieving the correct balance between uniformed personnel, civilians, and contractors._ba46cd22-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.6.1Agility & AdaptabilityFacilitate a more-technologically agile and adaptable workforce that can leverage technological evolution._ba46d7d6-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.6.2FellowshipsDevelop fellowship programs in the private sector for defense department personnel to renew skills to comport with industry standards._ba46df92-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.6.3Private SectorAcquisition ProcessOverhaul the Acquisition Process_ba46eab4-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.7StreamliningStreamline the acquisition process to prevent costly mistakes, hold private contractors accountable, and field top of the line technology to future warfighters._ba46f57c-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.7.1ContractorsWarfightersCutting Edge TechnologyRemove barriers and strengthen exemptions for commercial acquisitions allowing the Pentagon to leverage cutting edge commercial technology, such as data analytics, cloud computing, 3-D printing, and robotics._ba46fc2a-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.7.2Missile DefenseModernize Missile Defense for the 21st Century_ba4701f2-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.8InterceptorsExpand missile defense by speeding up deployment of interceptors in Europe, deploying a third site in the United States, and ensuring that advanced programs are adequately funded._ba470c9c-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.8.1EuropeMissile DefenseWork interoperably with allies on missile defense _ba4711f6-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.8.2We should encourage the spread of missile defense technology as a solution to the spread of ballistic and cruise missiles.R&DIncrease the Missile Defense Agency's Research & Development budget and create a rapid-fielding office to focus on fielding directed energy weapons, railguns, UAV-enabled defenses, and other means to defeat a threat missile across its entire flight trajectory._ba47173c-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.8.3Missile Defense AgencyStrategic AssetsModernize and Protect Strategic Assets_ba471fe8-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.9SpaceEnsure continued freedom of access to space in the face of a potential adversary's development of anti-satellite missiles._ba4725f6-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.9.1Nuclear ArsenalModernize the nuclear arsenal and stop the Obama administration's proposed cuts to the nuclear arsenal._ba472b32-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.9.2Arms ControlPursue arms control only when it is in America's interest and when prospective negotiating partners comply with their commitments to us._ba4733d4-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.9.3InnovationPromote Innovation for the 21st Century_ba473906-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.10Technological SuperiorityEnsure U.S. military technological superiority by prioritizing key areas of defense technology that will counter those adversaries and competitors seeking to undermine our military predominance._ba473e38-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.10.1SubmarinesImprove anti-submarine capabilities_ba4746da-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.10.1.1Air WarfareProcure advanced air warfare capabilities_ba474d2e-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.10.1.2Precision StrikesSustain our advantage in precision strike from land, air, and sea_ba475300-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.10.1.3Electronic WarfareInvest in electronic warfare capabilities._ba476322-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.10.1.4AcquisitionExpand the use of rapid acquisition processes for key innovative technologies._ba4768f4-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.10.2Cyber EraPosture the Force for the Cyber Era_ba476e4e-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.11Cyber DefenseImprove cyber defense capabilities by hardening DoD systems and examining the sourcing of our weapons components._ba477420-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.11.1Declaratory PolicyOutline a declaratory policy so our adversaries understand the consequences of attacking our computer systems._ba477862-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.11.2Cyber Capabilities, Tools & AuthoritiesImprove offensive cyber capabilities and ensure that Cyber Command cyber mission forces have the tools and authorities to perform the cyber offensive mission._ba477d8a-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.11.3Training, Doctrine & ExercisesBetter integrate cyber threats and cyber aspects of modern warfare in training, doctrine, and exercises across the combatant commands._ba478618-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.11.4Combatant CommandsCyber ThreatEnsure that the cyber threat is appropriately prioritized by all services_ba478afa-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.11.5Cyber ServiceStudy whether cyber should be its own service rather than a mission of the Army, Navy, Marines, and Air Force._ba479004-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1019.11.5.1ArmyNavyMarinesAir ForceNorth KoreaStand Up to North Korea_ba479928-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1020North KoreaMarco has been warning throughout the presidential campaign that North Korea is a rogue state run by a lunatic with a growing number of nuclear weapons. The Kim regime’s January 2016 nuclear test was just the latest reminder of its aggressive, dangerous ambitions. Meanwhile, its government ranks as possibly the world’s worst human rights abuser — jailing, torturing, and killing its people with abandon. President Obama and Hillary Clinton have stood idly by while Kim Jong-un has tortured his people and threatened his neighbors and the United States. When they have engaged on North Korea, they have only offered concession after concession in the hopes of cutting an Iran-style deal that would only empower the regime. Years of this behavior has allowed North Korea to test multiple nuclear weapons and build ballistic-missile technology capable of hitting the United States. Moreover, North Korea is more of a force for instability in the region, a crucial one with a number of close U.S. allies, than ever before. This failure must be replaced with a policy of strength and clarity: Stop the giveaways, ratchet up the pressure on North Korea’s leaders and their Chinese supporters, back up our allies in the region, restore critical funding to our missile defense programs, and promote human rights and access to outside information within North Korea.AggressionCounter North Korean Aggression_ba479e1e-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1020.1ConcessionsEnd the policy of rewarding North Korean provocations and nuclear blackmail with new rounds of concessions_ba47a33c-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1020.1.1ProliferationWork with allies to disrupt North Korean nuclear and missile proliferation by interdicting ships or aircraft suspected of carrying material related to North Korea's nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs_ba47abb6-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1020.1.2SanctionsImpose crushing new sanctions on the North Korean regime, including freezing the overseas assets of the North Korean leadership, sanctioning international entities and individuals that continue to do business with the regime, and disrupting illegal sources of income, from drug smuggling to counterfeiting and illicit arms sales_ba47b0a2-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1020.1.2ChinaPressure China to stop propping up the Kim family by demonstrating to Beijing that continuing to do so will result in greater U.S. and allied presence around the peninsula_ba47b5a2-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1020.1.3ChinaHacking & CyberattacksDeter North Korean hacking and cyberattacks against American companies and the government._ba47bf3e-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1020.1.4American CompaniesTerrorism ListRestore North Korea to the State Sponsor of Terrorism List_ba47c43e-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1020.2IranSyriaUnless it ceases supporting state sponsors of terror like Iran and Syria, including through such entities as the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, North Korea would be re-designated a State Sponsor of Terrorism.DeterrenceBolster Deterrence_ba47c966-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1020.3Deterrent & DefensesRebuild our nuclear deterrent and strengthen U.S. missile defenses and offensive capabilities in the region by coordinating with our allies to deploy the THAAD system to South Korea_ba47d1e0-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1020.3.1Missile DefenseReestablish missile defense, especially homeland missile defense, as a national priority by fielding more interceptors, providing additional radar, and leveraging new technologies to intercept the most sophisticated missile threats_ba47d6d6-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1020.3.2Regional AlliancesEnhance cooperation with and among regional allies, such as South Korea and Japan._ba47dbfe-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1020.3.3South KoreaJapanHuman Rights & DemocracyPromote Human Rights and Democracy_ba47e720-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1020.4SupportProvide support to North Koreans by helping them gain access to the outside world, bolstering counter-information efforts, and sanctioning North Korea for its brazen human rights violations_ba47ec34-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1020.4.1North KoreansRepression & AbusesDeclassify information about North Korea's apparatus of repression and highlight the specific North Korean leaders involved in human rights abuses_ba47f17a-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1020.4.2Human RightsEnsure that human rights no longer take a backseat to concerns about North Korea's nuclear program and militarism._ba47fa12-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1020.4.3RegulationRestore Sanity and Restraint to Regulation: A National Regulatory Budget_ba47ff08-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1021Competitive Enterprise InstituteNational Association of ManufacturersNational Small Business AssociationAvik RoyForbesFederal regulations are out of control. With hundreds of billions of dollars in new costs imposed under the Obama administration, we have a system of regulations and rules that strangles job creation, holds down take-home pay, and puts unelected bureaucrats in charge of huge sectors of our economy. In 2014, Marco proposed a National Regulatory Budget, which would set a cap on the costs federal regulations could impose on the economy. For every dollar in costs regulators want to impose, they have to find a dollar in existing costs that they’ll repeal. Marco’s proposal would also impose a cap on each agency, so that Congress would be able to limit new regulation unless agencies, like the EPA, were willing to provide dollar-for-dollar relief. The budget would limit the costs regulators can impose on the economy, boost wages and job creation, and limit unelected regulators’ power to interfere in the economy. Marco's proposal has received praise from conservatives and business organizations... A National Regulatory Budget -- a reform that other countries have successfully used to restrain regulatory overreach -- is exactly the kind of reform Marco will put in place to help the American economy compete in a global economy, and make this century a New American Century._ba480444-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f10RussiaCounter Russian aggression_ba480dea-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022The last few years' events in Ukraine, Russia, and elsewhere prove we are barreling toward a second Cold War. As the Obama-Clinton record has shown, the longer we wait to stand strong against Putin's Russia, the higher the price of our inaction will be. Strong American leadership is the only force capable of ensuring that peace and security once again prevail. For five years, Marco has been a leader on countering Russian aggression. As President, Marco will immediately begin to take action against Russia, drawing on the principles of the Rubio Doctrine. He will:UkraineDefend and Restore Ukrainian Sovereignty_ba4812f4-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.1UkrainiaCrimea & Eastern UkraineReject and work to reverse Russia's annexation of Crimea, help Kiev uphold Ukrainian control over Eastern Ukraine, and establish a long-term strategy to allow the Ukrainian people to fulfill their European aspirations._ba481830-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.1.1CrimeaAssistance, Training & IntelligenceProvide Kiev with lethal military assistance and increased training and intelligence sharing._ba4820f0-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.1.2SanctionsExpand sanctions on Russian entities, such as major state-owned corporations and their senior leadership, and impose additional visa bans and asset freezes against high-level Russian officials._ba4825fa-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.1.3Russian OfficialsEconomic ModernizationHelp Ukraine's leaders modernize their economy to safeguard independence from Moscow._ba482b36-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.1.4Diplomatic EngagementCease diplomatic engagement with Moscow on issues not related to resolving the Ukraine crisis._ba483536-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.1.5EuropeProtect Europe from Further Russian Aggression_ba483a72-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.2EuropeNATO AlliesBoost the capacity of our NATO allies by storing additional heavy weapons and vehicles in Central and Eastern Europe and permanently stationing U.S. troops in the region._ba483fd6-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.2.1NATO AlliesCentral EuropeEastern EuropeTraining & AssistanceProvide additional military training and assistance to non-NATO frontline states such as Georgia and Moldova._ba4848aa-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.2.2GeorgiaMoldovaNATO StrategyRevamp NATO strategy, updating military planning to defend the Baltic, updating its nuclear deterrence doctrine to respond to Russian nuclear threats, and ensuring open membership for all countries that meet the conditions with no Russian veto._ba484dc8-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.2.3Baltic StatesEnergy ExportsLift restrictions on U.S. energy exports, to blunt Russia's attempts to use trade and energy dependence as a weapon._ba485318-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.2.4SyriaReclaim Leadership on Syria_ba485dae-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.3SyriaISILMake clear that there will be no U.S.-Russia cooperation in the fight against ISIL until Russia brokers the departure of Bashar al-Assad from power._ba4862f4-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.3.1Airstrikes, Special Forces & IntelligenceReassure U.S. allies and partners in the region that the United States will recommit to working with them to destroy ISIL through more frequent and accurate airstrikes, the deployment of U.S. Special Forces, and additional intelligence sharing._ba4868b2-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1023.3.2U.S. AlliesArms ControlHighlight Russian Arms Control Violations_ba487226-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.4Military PresenceMake clear that the United States will respond to continued Russian violations of arms control agreements with a stronger military presence in Europe._ba487b9a-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.4.1EuropeCountermeasuresExplore countermeasures to new Russian systems that violate arms agreements and expedite deployment of missile defense interceptors to Eastern Europe._ba487fd2-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1024.4.3Eastern EuropeAdvocacyAdvocate for Russian Journalists, Dissidents, and Democracy Activists_ba488bbc-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.5Russian JournalistsRussian DissidentsRussian Democracy ActivistsPropagandaUndermine Russian propaganda at home and abroad by revitalizing U.S. broadcasting, funneling news past Russian filters, and supporting sidelined or jailed Russian journalists._ba4891ca-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.5.1Russian JournalistsCorruption & AbusesHighlight pervasive government corruption and human rights abuses and tie human rights to broader U.S.-Russian relations._ba48986e-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.5.2SanctionsImpose additional sanctions, including visa bans against Russian officials involved in human rights abuses._ba48a58e-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1022.5.3Russian OfficialsSanctuary CitiesCut Off Sanctuary Cities_ba48adea-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1023"Sanctuary cities" are local governments -- towns, cities, and counties -- that prevent or discourage their law enforcement officers from cooperating with federal immigration authorities. In hundreds of such jurisdictions across the country, illegal immigrants who commit crimes can often be released, free to endanger their communities again, without federal authorities ever having the chance to remove them from the country. Fortunately, the federal government can do something about it. Marco is fighting for legislation to end sanctuary cities that will:FundingCut off federal funding for sanctuary cities._ba48b722-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1023.1ReallocationAllocate those funds to local governments that do allow their law enforcement to work with federal immigration authorities._ba48c1b8-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1023.2Public ListingMandate that Department of Homeland Security publicly list which cities and towns are sanctuary jurisdictions and the number of federal law enforcement requests that have been ignored by each._ba48c79e-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1023.3Department of Homeland SecurityLocal Law EnforcementMake clear that local law enforcement has the right to cooperate with federal law enforcement, while also making it clear that this does not reduce individuals' constitutional protections._ba48cdb6-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1023.4Local Law Enforcement OfficialsPenaltiesIncrease the penalties for illegal immigrants who return to the U.S. after removal, and impose mandatory minimums for those who return after being convicted of an aggravated felony or being deported two or more times._ba48d8c4-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1023.5Second AmendmentExamine why people are taking violent action_ba48dfea-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1024Gun OwnersThe 2nd Amendment Is Foundational to Who We Are as a Country -- Marco believes that the Second Amendment is about much more than the right to bear arms. At its core, the Second Amendment is about the American Dream. The American Dream means having the opportunity to achieve happiness, which is possible, first and foremost, when you can start and raise a family in a home that is stable, safe and secure. The safety of our families is not something we should be forced to hope the government can provide -- it's a fundamental right that every American deserves. On Gun Control: We must examine why it is people are taking violent action, not what they're using to commit the violent act. We have two issues in this country: One is mental illness, which we need to begin to address more seriously, as opposed to stigmatizing or it in some cases trying to put it aside. That's a societal issue we must confront as a society and a country. The other of course is why have we become so violent as individuals. What is it that's leading people in this country who are not mentally ill to do the sort of drive-by shootings and things that we've seen? . . . The guns are what they're using to commit the violence. In many cases, the laws that are actually being proposed would not have prevented them. Dissenters try and stigmatize gun owners, but as we all know, responsibly exercising one's Second Amendment right could mean the difference between life and death._ba48e648-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f10Sharing EconomyBoost the Sharing Economy_ba48f69c-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1025InnovatorsConsumersUberAirbnbIf there’s one thing that matters in the 21st century economy, it’s innovation. In order to be the leading economy on earth, America must be the most innovative economy on earth. It’s that simple. And whenever we talk about innovation, what we’re talking about is problem solving. We’re talking about finding ways to do things more efficiently, more affordably, and more conveniently than ever. One innovation entrepreneurs have come up with in recent years is the so-called “sharing economy.” Companies like Uber and Airbnb enable workers and consumers to provide or purchase the goods and services when they want, how they want. How Marco Will Boost the Sharing Economy If there's one thing that matters in the 21st century economy, it's innovation. In order to be the leading economy on earth, America must be the most innovative economy on earth. It's that simple. And whenever we talk about innovation, what we're talking about is problem solving. We're talking about finding ways to do things more efficiently, more affordably, and more conveniently than ever. One innovation entrepreneurs have come up with in recent years is the so-called "sharing economy." Companies like Uber and Airbnb enable workers and consumers to provide or purchase the goods and services when they want, how they want. Unfortunately, government can get in the way, and outdated labor regulations, new taxes, and other harmful policies can prevent new, innovative businesses and technologies from ever being able to get off the ground. Here’s a few of Marco's proposals to protect innovators and consumers, and ensure that we can create a New American Century:InnovationProtect Innovation from Regulators_ba48f98a-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1025.1Federal regulators usually provide cost-benefit analyses for proposed regulations. But the status quo neglects the important question of whether the proposed rule will be an impediment to innovation, cause industries to consolidate into just a few firms, reduce consumer choice, or otherwise inhibit genuine competition. Agencies need to look at how their rules will affect the free-enterprise system. Marco will direct the agencies to issue a Competition and Innovation Analysis for all major rules. Any rules that will hurt the innovative, competitive system will be sent back for revision or rejected.Online Sales TaxesStop New Online Sales Taxes_ba49001a-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1025.2Online RetailersSmall BusinessesState GovernmentsLocal GovernmentsCurrently, state and local governments can tax only those businesses with a physical location, such as a storefront or warehouse, within their boundaries. Proposals such as the Marketplace Fairness Act would massively expand their taxing powers, potentially subjecting online retailers to thousands of different tax systems and audits from those jurisdictions. The Act would impose huge compliant costs and new taxes on online retailers, which would fall particularly hard on smaller businesses. The more resources online retailers have to put into mandates like this, the less they can devote to growing their businesses and creating jobs. Marco is opposed to the creation of an online sales tax and will veto any attempts to raise taxes on businesses.Digital Goods & ServicesPrevent Burdensome Taxation of Digital Goods and Services_ba490ac4-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1025.3ConsumersState Tax AuthoritiesLocal Tax AuthoritiesToday, if a consumer downloads a song or app while traveling in another state, the state the consumer is visiting, the state housing the server providing the song, and the consumer's home state could all claim the authority to tax the same transaction. Marco supports providing clarity for the taxation of digital goods and stopping multiple taxes from being imposed by numerous state and local tax authorities. Consumers shouldn't have to worry about incurring additional taxes based on server locations or where they are when they make their digital purchase, and sellers shouldn't be burdened with complex calculations about which jurisdictions they must collect taxes on behalf of. Marco supports limiting tax jurisdiction over digital goods to a single address.Wireless SpectrumReallocate Wireless Spectrum to Meet Commercial Needs_ba491104-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1025.4Wireless ServicesConsumersMarco supports reallocating wireless spectrum controlled by the federal government, to shift it toward commercial wireless services, and supports increasing transparency about how the resource is allocated and improving the federal government’s wireless infrastructure. Smarter use of the wireless spectrum will boost innovation, lower costs for consumers, and broaden the range of wireless services available.InternetVigorously Defend Internet Freedom_ba49173a-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1025.5President Obama's Net Neutrality takeover of the Internet, which subjects 21st-century technology to an early-20th century regulatory system, will hamper innovation and raise costs for Internet users. Marco will repeal it as president. The existing governance system for the Internet has allowed the technology to flourish and incredible innovation to occur. Marco will build off unanimous support of a resolution he passed in the U.S. Senate to fight proposals from foreign governments to gut current multi-stakeholder governance of the Internet.Social Security & MedicareStrengthen and Protect Social Security and Medicare_ba49227a-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1026ElderlySocial Security and Medicare are crucial pillars of America's social safety net. Our nation's elderly should be able to rely on them for financial security and peace of mind. However, both programs are on an unsustainable path, and if the next president isn't willing to undertake reforms that will modernize and strengthen them, they simply won’t be there for tomorrow’s seniors. Further, the programs should be reformed to work best in the 21st century, to meet the needs of Americans in a changing economy. The programs' current crises are partially attributable to our slow economic growth, and they should be reformed with a view toward reigniting growth and helping Americans prosper throughout their lives.ProtectionProtect Social Security and Medicare _ba49286a-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1026.1Retirees & Near-RetireesMake no changes for those in or near retirement_ba492ebe-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1026.1.1RetireesNear-RetireesMedicare & Medicare AdvantageStrongly defend Medicare and Medicare Advantage for current seniors_ba493940-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1026.1.2SeniorsSocial SecurityGradually increase the Social Security Retirement age to keep up with changes in life expectancy_ba493f4e-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1026.1.3Rate of GrowthReduce the rate of growth of benefits for upper-income seniors while making the program stronger for low-income seniors_ba49462e-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1026.1.4Upper-Income SeniorsLow-Income SeniorsMedicareTransition Medicare to a premium support system, which would give seniors a generous but fixed amount with which to purchase health insurance._ba49577c-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1026.1.5SeniorsHealth Insurance ProvidersSeniors would have the option of either Medicare or a private provider.Financial SecurityImprove the Financial Security of Retirees_ba495e16-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1026.2RetireesThrift Savings PlanAllow the American people to participate in the Thrift Savings Plan, which is now used by members of Congress and other federal employees_ba49600a-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1026.2.1American PeopleMembers of CongressFederal EmployeesPayroll TaxExempt seniors over 65 who wish to continue working from the payroll tax, strengthening the economy and seniors' nest eggs_ba496a5a-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1026.2.2Seniors over 65Retirement Earnings TestAbolish the Retirement Earnings Test, which discourages work and does nothing to help Social Security's long-term solvency_ba49720c-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1026.2.3Taxes_ba497860-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1027A Pro-Growth, Pro-Family Tax Plan for the New American Century -- See http://ambur.net/stratml/MRTPwStyle.xml _ba4982ba-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f10VAFix the VA_ba4988be-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1028VeteransU.S. Department of Veterans AffairsFix the VA NOW! -- The VA has failed our veterans, and is continuing to fail them every day. That’s why Marco led the fight in the Senate last year to pass the VA Management Accountability Act. It was based on a pretty simple premise from the private sector -- if someone isn’t doing their job at the VA, they should be fired. Nothing could be simpler. We need to make sure those directly responsible for the terrible performance of the VA can be held accountable._ba498ed6-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f10Transportation_ba499a48-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1029Marco’s Plan for Transportation in the New American Century -- America could not have flourished in the 20th Century without up-to-date transportation infrastructure. Unfortunately, our infrastructure needs have evolved dramatically over 60 years, but the transportation system -- and politicians in Washington -- have not changed with them. We successfully built a national highway system in the last century, but now we need local flexibility to address our diverse nation's many different needs and problems. The federal gas tax feeds Washington's overspending. Transportation dollars are taken from the states and funnelled through a Highway Trust Fund that is pillaged every year by Washington special interests. And decades-old federal red tape adds cost and stands in the way of innovative solutions. Today, the Highway Trust Fund is running out of money, and the political establishments of both parties are propping it up with the same stale policies of the past. We can't keep putting more money into this broken system. Marco will take a new approach in building the infrastructure for the next American century. As President, Marco will:Gas TaxesCut Outdated Gas Taxes_ba49a07e-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1029.1* Reduce the federal gasoline tax rate by 80 percent. * Veto any gas-tax increase.InnovationEmpower States to Innovate_ba49a6c8-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1029.2StatesHighwaysTurn back control of the highways to the states, stopping special interests in Washington from building "Bridges to Nowhere" and engaging in other wasteful spending._ba49b1a4-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1029.2.1Federal Funding StringsFree states from the strings that come attached to federal funding._ba49b7e4-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1029.2.2StatesPublic-Private PartnershipsRemove barriers to public-private partnerships._ba49bf46-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1029.2.3SavingsFind Common-Sense Savings_ba49ca04-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1029.3Davis-Bacon ActRepeal the Davis-Bacon Act that inflates government costs by billions every year and is a giveaway of taxpayer dollars to labor unions._ba49d210-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1029.3.1Labor UnionsMass Transit AccountPhase out the Mass Transit Account, which loots the Highway Trust Fund. Stop diverting highway funds to unnecessary pet projects._ba49d850-db60-11e5-8ce2-0670b67b6f1029.3.22016-02-24https://marcorubio.com/issues/OwenAmburOwen.Ambur@verizon.net