Headlines

Headline: A pyramid scheme? Congressmans comments show GOPs real intent for Social Security Heck calls Social Security a pyramid scheme [Editorial, Las Vegas Sun, 6/10/11] After Calling Social Security a Pyramid Scheme Heck Claimed He Wanted to Protect the Program In 2011, Heck said it was a mistake to call Social Security a pyramid scheme that isnt working. In the video footage of Heck making the comment to constituents he didnt apologize for making the comment, despite audience disapproval. He claimed in a statement that he wanted to protect Social Security.
[Associated Press, 6/3/11]

Called Social Security a Pyramid Scheme at a Town Hall In 2011, at a town hall event, Heck said You know, when we talk about social security and the retirement age, for future generations, again were talking about if there are going to be changes, its not going to be the person who is 55 and now were going to say you have to work until 70, because people have made a lifes plan based on when they thought they would be collecting social security. Now, the kid who is 18 years old, should that kid have to work until age 70, I dont know but that could be a possibility to try and make this program work. He continued, Thats one of the reasons why this pyramid scheme isnt working [inaudible] thats why we have to look at every possible [inaudible]. [Politico, 6/3/11] Criticized by Columnist for Calling Social Security a Pyramid Scheme When People Depended on Aid In 2011, a columnist wrote that Heck exposed his primitive feelings when he called Social Security a pyramid scheme. The columnist wrote that Heck admitted he made a poor choice of words and then failed to correct a caller who described Social Security as a pyramid scheme. The columnist wrote Social Security is easy to demagogue by those who dont rely on it for survival. For the millions of Americans, Democrats and Republicans alike, who depend on their monthly checks, its no Ponzi scheme. And its irresponsible for anyone to characterize it that way. The columnist continued Calling it a pyramid scheme gins up fears of falling skies and also makes Heck look like a pawn of his party at a time Republicans in safer congressional districts are calling for radical

revisions to the federal budget. Those who drink Rep. Paul Ryans budget Kool-Aid do so at their own political perilUsing ill-advised hyperbole to describe Social Security might score points with his new friends in Washington, but it could ruin him back home. Heck threatens to be consumed by a fire he started and flames he fanned. [Columnist, John L. Smith, Las Vegas Review Journal, 6/12/11] Claimed He Meant to Call Social Security an Inverted Pyramid Not a Pyramid Scheme In 2011, Heck clarified his Social Security comments and changed pyramid scheme to inverted pyramid. He claimed that he wanted to create a visual that related to the decreasing ratio between people that paid into the system and the people who collected benefits. Obviously, the way the statement came out, was it a poor choice of words? Probably, he said. But everything I said around it was factual. Heck called Social Security a pyramid scheme during a May 2011 town hall while discussing the sustainability of continuing to pay benefits to people as they lived longer. The full retirement age is 67 and the lifespan is 80, so when they first conceived Social Security, they didnt think they were going to be paying benefits for 13-15 years, Heck said at the time. Thats one of the reasons why this pyramid scheme isnt working. [Associated Press, 6/9/11] Was in Lock Step with Tea Party on Issues Such as Republican Budget, Medicare and Oil Subsidies In 2011, the Las Vegas Sun wrote that Heck walked a tightrope when it came to the Tea Party. The Tea Party in Nevada said Heck had not left his roots. Although the paper pointed out that Heck did not picket for a government shutdown, he did serve the Tea Party agenda. But Democrats warn that appearances can be deceiving: Just because Heck doesnt proudly bear the Tea Party banner doesnt mean he isnt serving its agenda. The Tea Party took credit for Hecks victory. Hecks no liberal, and hasnt gone totally rogue on the GOP. When it comes to the big, national issues, like health care, Medicare, and oil subsidies, hes in lock step with the party and the Tea Party lineAdded Gabriela Domenzain, a spokeswoman for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee: Rep. Joe Hecks extreme positions to end Medicare and protect subsidies for Big Oil, privatize Social Security and abolish the Department of Education are out of touch with Nevadans. The Tea Party was with Heck on the Republican Ryan budget. [Las Vegas
Sun, 5/20/11]

Key Clips
Cut $6 Billion from Affordable Housing Programs In February 2011 Heck was criticized by the DCCC for cutting almost $6 billion from affordable housing programs, cutting more than $700 million from programs that subsidize rent checks for seniors and the disabled, and eliminating housing counseling services for families facing foreclosure. Hecks Congressional District was described by the Las Vegas Sun as ground zero for the foreclosure crisis. [Las Vegas Sun, 2/23/11] Defended Taking Government Health Care Saying He had to Pay a Premium
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In February 2011, Heck defended the fact that he has government health care, despite opposing the health reform law. He said he still had to pay a premium on the government healthcare. Actually, the employer health care that I had at my previous job was better and cheaper than the one that I have now, Heck said. [Fox5 News, 2/2/11] Heck was critical of the health care coverage he received as a member of Congress, saying the health insurance provided under his former job as an emergency room physician was better and cheaper. [Associated Press, 2/4/11] Did Not Strongly Oppose Yucca; Said Yucca Could Be Used as Reprocessing Facility In February 2011, the Las Vegas Sun reported Heck was an exception to Nevadas delegation members who opposed Yucca Mountain. Current freshman Republican Rep. Joe Heck is the first exception to that rule -- he maintains that Yucca could be used as some sort of reprocessing facility in the future. [Las
Vegas Sun, 2/14/11]

Backed Plan to Cut Social Security and Medicare; Spokesperson Said Proposed Changes Wouldnt Impact Current Recipients In March 2011, Heck was targeted by national Democrats that focused on cuts to Social Security and Medicare. Democrats said Heck backed a plan to cut Social Security and Medicare, Hecks spokesperson, said the proposed changes wouldnt impact current recipients of those programs. [The Republic, 3/23/11] Criticized for Voting to Cut Program that Helped Seniors Stay in Own Homes, Saving State Over a Billion Dollars a Year In March 2011, the President of the Nevada Senior Corps Association voiced her disappointment that Heck voted for H.R. because it cut funding for many volunteer programs. She wrote that the bill eliminated the Corporation for National and Community Service, which funded the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, the Foster Grandparent and the Senior Companion Programs. She wrote In Nevada, we have three RSVP Programs; two Foster Grandparent Programs and two Senior Companion Programs that collectively have around 4,000 volunteers who provide free services to thousands of seniors to keep them safe and at home as long as possible, saving the state over a billion dollars a year in institutional care costs. [Op-ed, President, Nevada Senior Corps Association, Nevada Appeal,
3/22/11]

Defended Paul Ryan Plan to Reform Medicaid In April 2011, Heck defended the Republican budget plan, saying The Medicaid block grant program allows states to design whatever type of programs they want to. He went on to say, And people 54 and younger, once theyre 65, will be able to have a patient-centered, more personalized approach to their health care. Theyll be able to have the same type of insurance that members of Congress do. [Las Vegas
Sun, 4/7/11]

Made Two Votes that Hurt Unions In March 2011, Heck voted for the Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill. The House approved a Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill that President Barack Obama has threatened to veto over labor and safety issues, and subsidies for flights to remote communities. The Obama administration said the bill was anti-labor. Heck also voted against an amendment that would have made it easier for railroad and airline workers to unionize. [Las Vegas Review Journal, 4/3/11] Endorsed Romneys Massachusetts Health Care Plan Heck was asked about his support for Romneys universal healthcare. Heck said Well, you know thats not a concern for me because the fact is that what the governor did was do what all governors should do and look at whats going to work best for their state, not take some one-size-fits-all government mandate and run it through the entire country. You know, he looked at what he thought would work for his state. He went on to say Well, you know, theres a lot more insured people in the state of Massachusetts, but the important thing was it was a program designed by the state for the state, not a federal program thats being rammed down the states. [Topline, ABC News, 3/29/11] Joe Heck: I am Committed To Protecting Medicare; As a Physician, It Doesnt Make Sense to Privatize Medicare On June 16, 2010, Joe Heck was interviewed by John Ralston on Face to Face. During the program, Heck was asked if he is for privatizing or phasing out Social Security or Medicare. Heck responded: I am committed to making sure our seniors have the benefits they are entitled to and that theyve earned, whether its Social Security of Medicare. And its ludicrous on its face to think that me, as a physician, would want to see Medicare dissolved [] I am saying for me to think that we would want tothat I would want toprivatize or to dissolve Medicare just doesnt make sense as a physician. Its critically important for seniors to have that coverage, to receive the health care that they receive once they reach the age of 65. [Face to Face with Jon Ralston, 6/16/10 around seg. 2 @ 2:00] Voted to Cut Renewable Projects in Nevada Estimated to Create Thousands of Jobs Heck voted to cut the Department of Energys loan guarantee program for renewable projects in February 2011. The removal of the program jeopardized five renewable projects in Nevada. The five projects were estimated to create 1,749 construction jobs and 314 permanent jobs, according to the DOE. Sen. Harry Reid pushed to get the program back in the budget in March 2011. [HR 1, Vote #147; Las Vegas Review-Journal,
4/15/11]

Refuted that 2012 Republican Budget Would Turn Medicare into Voucher Program Heck said he fought in Washington, but there were certain things he couldnt get done. Heck was asked about his vote to change Medicare. He said the fact is there is no future in Medicare if we continue on the same path. So the proposed budget protects seniors, most seniors will not see changes. People 55 or older, the program will remain exactly the same. The program changes to a voucher program, but Medicare D.
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There is premium support, a subsidy goes directly to the insurer. Its guaranteed issue. The amount of premium support will be the same and roughly what we pay for Medicare now. If you get sicker you get more premium support and there will be health savings accounts. We have to have generational change. For future generations we will say you get a patient centered plan. [Heidi Harris, KDWN 720 AM, Summary,
4/28/11]

Claimed Republican Budget Would Not Affect Anyone 55 or Older In 2011, on Face to Face Jon Ralston asked Heck about the Republican budget. He said, Newt Gingrich, he says youre not allowed to use this quote now because hes changed his position since then, but last week on Meet the Press called it right-wing social engineering, do you agree with that? Heck said Medicare is just one of the issues contained within that budget package, and of course, that was the area that brought up the most concern last evening, and you know I was surprised at how many seniors were present that thought this was still going to affect them not realizing that this does nothing to anybody who is 55 or more. If youre 55 or older you will see no change to the current Medicare system. Yet theyre all still clamoring about what it is going to do to Medicare. [Face to Face with Jon Ralston, Block 2, 3:57,
5/19/11]

Said Republican Budget was Not a Voucher System; Claimed Seniors Would Receive Same Amount of Benefits In 2011, on Face to Face Jon Ralston asked Heck about the Republican budget. He said, You know, its interesting because even you dont seem that enthusiastic about it at the time. Revamped Medicare, and people know, it turns into a voucher-like program, I know you dont like calling it vouchers, and it has these tax breaks in there. Let me show you what you said about it at the town hall meeting, I referred to earlier, last night: Im not saying its the best idea, but its the only one and the best being proposed now, Heck said, emphasizing that the government needs to cut back spending to reasonable, sustainable levels. [Las Vegas Review-Journal]. Ralston went on to say, Seniors are scared. And almost seniors are scared. This is going to take away guarantee that has existed since when, 1965, and youre willing to do that? Heck replied Its not taking away any guarantee John. What its doing is saying look, were going to give you premium support, its not a voucher. Youll be able to pick a plan that is going to have to have a guaranteed issue, there is no pre-existing condition exclusions. You will get the same amount that, on average every Medicare beneficiary receives now. Itll be indexed for inflation. And in addition, the poorer and the sicker get additional support. Very low income seniors will get a funded health savings account for further assistance in out-of-pocket expenses. [Face to Face with Jon Ralston, Block 3, 5/19/11] Claimed the Republican Budget Took Away Tax Loopholes In 2011, on Face to Face Jon Ralston asked Heck about tax breaks in the Republican budget. He asked What about the tax breaks in there? Because thats what you were talking about at thatI mean obviously thats going to be unpopular with a lot of peopleas is changing Medicare because people are viscerally afraid. Heck said You know, you hear it from both sides. You hear the left saying weve got to take away the deductions, the subsidies, and the loopholes. Great. Well, in the budget, it does that. It lowers the tax rate, it broadens the base, and it takes away the deductions, the loopholes, and the subsidies so that folks are paying a fair share of tax. I dont know why anybody would be opposed to lower rates, a

broader base, and getting rid of the deductions, subsidies, and loopholes. [Face to Face with Jon Ralston, Block
3, 5/19/11]

On Republican Budget Heck Said So In Essence This Is Going ToDoes It Fundamentally Change Medicare? Yes, It Does. In 2011, on Face to Face Jon Ralston asked Heck why he supported the Ryan Budget which put additional Medicare costs on seniors. Heck said, Its not putting it on Medicare recipients because, again, the Medicare recipient is going to continue to receive the same amount in premium support that already goes into Medicare on their behalf. And unlike Medicare now, if youre poorer or sicker, youll get additional support. If youre very low income, youll get even more support. So in essence this is going todoes it fundamentally change Medicare? Yes, it does. [Face to Face with Jon Ralston, Block 3, 5/19/11] Claimed the Republican Budget Wouldnt Turn Medicare into a Voucher Program In 2011, Heck wrote an op-ed claiming that the Republican budget did not affect Medicare for those 55 years and older or make Medicare a voucher system. He wrote First, every person 55 years old, or older, is completely exempt from any changes to Medicare in this proposal. Second, changes in this proposal do not make Medicare a voucher system. In fact, they implement patient-centered solutions and make Medicare just like Medicare Part D, the only government health program ever to come in under budget. Third, even President Obama said Medicare will be bankrupt in 2029 if left unchanged from how it is today. That is just 18 years from now, and a bankrupt program cannot serve the taxpayers who paid into it. Fourth, the changes in this proposal provide greater benefits to individuals who are poorer and sicker, and fewer benefits to individuals who are richer and healthier. [Op-ed, Rep. Heck, Las Vegas Review-Journal,
5/15/11]

Claimed the Republican Budget Wouldnt Keep Tax Breaks for Corporations in Place In 2011, Heck wrote an op-ed defending the Republican budget. He claimed the budget didnt keep special tax breaks for big companies. The second most common piece of misinformation I hear is: This budget keeps special tax breaks for big companies. That is also completely false. This proposal calls for fundamental corporate tax reform that scales back the deductions, loopholes and carve-outs that are distorting the corporate tax code. The job-killing economic uncertainty created by Washingtons wasteful spending is amassing a debt our children and grandchildren simply cant afford. This budget proposal is a bold starting point to change that by returning government spending to responsible levels, saving programs bound for bankruptcy and eliminating tax loopholes. [Op-ed, Rep. Heck, Las Vegas Review-Journal,
5/15/11]

GOP Budget Would Gut DOE Loan Guarantees For Renewable Energy Projects In April 2011 the Reno Gazette-Journal wrote, One of the casualties for H.R 1 is the Department of Energys loan guarantee program for renewable energy projects. Created with bipartisan support as part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the loan guarantee program helps encourage private financing for clean energy technology by mitigating some of the risks that might discourage investors and lenders. [Reno
Gazette-Journal, 4/3/11]

Flagship Project Expected To Power About 75,000 NV Energy Customers And Create 600 Jobs On-Site In March 2011 the Las Vegas Sun wrote, Since it was officially announced in late 2009, the Crescent Dunes Solar Energy Project in Tonopah has been one of Nevadas flagship commercial renewable energy projects. The planned 110-megawatt energy storage facility nearly twice the capacity of the states next largest solar plant is expected to power about 75,000 NV Energy customers and create 600 jobs on-site. [Las Vegas Sun, 3/3/11] Funding Loss Would Put Over 1,700 Nevada Jobs At Risk, Reduce State Revenue In April 2011 the Reno Gazette-Journal wrote, The projects are even more important given Nevadas struggle with unemployment. The DOE estimates the five projects in Nevada will create 1,749 construction jobs and 314 permanent jobs. The facilities also are expected to generate extra economic activity for other businesses along with additional revenue for the state. Solar Reserve alone projects to pay about $10 million a year in total salaries and generate $40 million in local tax revenue for the first 10 years of the project [Reno Gazette-Journal, 4/3/11] Voted for 2012 Republican Budget with Money for Yucca and Cuts for Renewable Energy In 2011, Heck voted for the 2012 Republican budget which contained money for Yucca mountain. The Ryan bill also made cuts to funding for renewable energy Heck said renewable energy efficiency programs were critical to Nevada jobs. [Las Vegas Sun, 7/15/11]

Election Issues
Said Sharron Angle Hadnt Said Whether She Would Run in Special Heck said since the 2010 cycle Sharron Angle has lost some support. She tapped into her national database and raised a lot of money. She didnt say whether she would run in the special. She still has a significant base in rural counties. We definitely want that seat in the red column. We need to start getting that majority in both houses. We need to control spending. [Heidi Harris, KDWN 720 AM, Summary, 4/28/11] Hoped for a Fair Decision in Special Election I am glad to see that Dean was appointed. There are so many important issues going on. He is a solid Conservative vote for Nevada. When asked about the special election Heck said I hope we come to a fair decision. Unfortunately the law is nebulous. You could wind up with a ballot as long as the Las Vegas Mayors race, which is not beneficial. The Governor needs to set the date and then the Secretary of State needs to decide. When you look at the voter registration in District 2 and the suburbs of Clark County there is a conservative majority, we dont want to minority Democrat to be able to win. If the parties were able to do it through caucus and central committee appointment, I agree we dont want an anointment. [Heidi
Harris, KDWN 720 AM, Summary, 4/28/11]

Headline: Karl Rove group to run radio ads defending Rep. Joe Heck Heck was defended against DCCC attacks by Roves political group Crossroads GPS. The ad claimed Democrats nearly bankrupted American and blamed Pelosis gang for economic problems. Crossroads GPS did not have to disclosure its donors. [Las Vegas Sun, 2/3/11] Hecks District Could Shrink After Redistricting According to the Washington Post, redistricting could shrink the size of Hecks district. Currently, Hecks is the biggest population wise in the country. It is estimated to be the first congressional district to reach one million residents. Hecks district is next to Shelley Berkleys. The two districts could be turned into three. Taking the Democratic parts of Hecks district and adding in parts of Berkleys could create 2 Democratic districts and 1 Republican district. [The Washington Post, 1/21/11]

Choice
Voted to Defund Planned Parenthood; Criticized by Local Gynecologist A retired obstetrician/gynecologist and medical educator expressed his disappointment with Hecks vote to defund Planned Parenthood. Saying his vote showed a lack of understanding of the important role that Planned Parenthood plays in womens health. [LTE, Las Vegas Sun, 2/25/11]

Budget Issues
Claimed the Republican Budget Wouldnt Keep Tax Breaks for Corporations in Place

In 2011, Heck wrote an op-ed defending the Republican budget. He claimed the budget didnt keep special tax breaks for big companies. The second most common piece of misinformation I hear is: This budget keeps special tax breaks for big companies. That is also completely false. This proposal calls for fundamental corporate tax reform that scales back the deductions, loopholes and carve-outs that are distorting the corporate tax code. The job-killing economic uncertainty created by Washingtons wasteful spending is amassing a debt our children and grandchildren simply cant afford. This budget proposal is a bold starting point to change that by returning government spending to responsible levels, saving programs bound for bankruptcy and eliminating tax loopholes. [Op-ed, Rep. Heck, Las Vegas Review-Journal,
5/15/11] Opposed to Increasing Debt Ceiling Without Budget Reductions

In 2011, it was reported that Heck remained largely opposed to increasing the debt ceiling unless Congress instituted reductions to the budget. [Las Vegas Sun, 5/16/11]
Claimed the Republican Budget Eliminated Tax Loopholes

In 2011, Heck wrote an op-ed defending the Republican budget. He wrote The Republican budget proposal addresses the debt problem by returning government spending to responsible levels, strengthening programs bound for bankruptcy, and eliminating tax loopholes. [Op-ed, Rep. Heck, Las Vegas
Review-Journal, 5/15/11]

Editorial Criticized Secrecy of House Majority PAC Which Attacked Heck for Voting for Republican Budget A 2011 editorial criticized the secrecy of the House Majority PAC which attacked Heck for voting for the Republican budget. The article read Rep. Joe Heck, the Republican from Nevadas 3rd Congressional District, has a bulls-eye on his backLocal radio listeners may have heard recent ads accusing Rep. Heck of voting for budgets that will destroy health care for the elderly and favor the rich over American families. Its stock stuff, straight out of the most elementary Democratic Party playbook. But even close listeners might not be able to determine whos responsible for the attack ads. [Editorial, Las Vegas Review
Journal, 4/28/11]

Said 2011 Budget Fight Forced Senators to Vote on Important Campaign Issues When asked who won and who lost in the 2011 budget negotiations Heck said Republicans didnt have complete control of the process. Heck said we passed a bill to cut $100 billion and it didnt go anywhere. Heck said the Republicans were cutting $2 billion a week. He said we cut $40 billion, which will be $314 billion over the decade. He said what was important was two up or down votes on health care and planned parenthood, which means Senators will be on record for that vote. [Heidi Harris, KDWN 720 AM, Summary, 4/28/11]
Heck Applauded Governors Budget Proposal

In 2011, Heck said he applauded the Governor for his budget. In 2011, Hecks prepared remarks read, I applaud Governor Sandoval for having the courage to put forward a balanced budget that doesnt raise taxes and I applaud those of you who have agreed to stand with him. And Senator Horsford and Speaker Oceguera, I thank you for your willingness to work with Governor Sandoval and Lt. Governor Krolicki to further enhance Nevadas economic development efforts. I want each of you to know that I will do all I can to help you make Nevada the most business-friendly state in America. The Nevada News Bureau also reported that Heck praised Governor Sandoval for proposing a budget that didnt raise taxes. [Las Vegas TSG Business News, remarks as prepared, assessed 4/28/11; Nevada News Bureau, 4/25/11] Ad Attacked Heck for Voting for Republican Budget: Our Congressman Joe Heck has Gone Way too far, Risking the Future of the Middle Class In 2011, the House Majority PAC launched an attack on Heck for voting fort the Republican budget plan. The ad read Nevada is known as a place where people come to have fun and even take a little risk, the radio spot says. But now our Congressman Joe Heck has gone way too far, risking the future of the middle class. House Republicans like Joe Heck have no problem asking Nevada seniors, middle-class families and veterans to make sacrifices, yet refuse to do the same for big corporations and millionaires who would
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receive trillions in new tax breaks, House Majority Executive Director Alixandria Lapp said. [Las Vegas
Sun, 4/21/11]

Voted to Pass Final 2011 Continuing Resolution and Against a Government Shutdown In 2011, Heck voted for the final 2011 continuing resolution and against a government shutdown. The legislation cut an estimated $40 billion in spending. The compromise cleared the House, 260-167. Im pleased that we finally got it done and that we wont be shutting down the government, Heck said last week after the budget deal was struck. Were reducing spending by historic amounts...We can turn our attention to the fiscal year 2012 budget, where the cuts will be measures in trillions, not billions.
[Editorial, Las Vegas Sun, 4/16/11; Las Vegas Review Journal, 4/17/11]

Supported Republican Paul Ryans Budget Proposal In April 2011, Heck said he didnt see anything risky about voting for Paul Ryans Republican budget proposal. He said This is a sensible way to rein in spending, and it does that through a myriad of different approaches. He defended the Medicaid plan outlined in the budget saying governors would be given the opportunity to use their federal dollars in a way they think is best to take care of their poor and working poor medical needs without a lot of strings attached. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 4/5/11] Said Ryan Budget Allowed States to Design Own Programs In 2011, Heck supported the Ryan Budget proposal which privatized Medicare and converted Medicaid into block grants. [It] allows states to design whatever type of programs they want to, Heck said. [Las
Vegas Sun, 4/12/11]

Defended Paul Ryan Plan to Reform Medicaid In April 2011, Heck defended the Republican budget plan, saying The Medicaid block grant program allows states to design whatever type of programs they want to. He went on to say, And people 54 and younger, once theyre 65, will be able to have a patient-centered, more personalized approach to their health care. Theyll be able to have the same type of insurance that members of Congress do. [Las Vegas
Sun, 4/7/11]

Said His Goals was to Cut Spending, not to Shutdown the Government In April 2011, Heck said he his goal was to cut spending, not to shutdown the government. Ive said all along that my goal is to cut government spending, not shut down the government. Today, I voted to cut spending another $12 billion, ensure our troops get paid through the end of the year, and keep the government open. I will continue working to ensure we cut spending, and keep the government running. [Rep. Heck, press release, 4/7/11] Said He Would Not Take Paycheck in Event of Government Shutdown In April 2011, Heck said I will not get paid if we shut down. I will not take my pay. [Las Vegas Sun,
4/8/11]

Said He was Satisfied with Deal Speaker Boehner Struck to Avoid a Government Shutdown
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In 2011, Heck said he was satisfied with the deal Speaker Boehner struck to avoid a government shutdown. He said We got in with getting as large a spending cut as we could, which is what we wanted This was not about shutting down the government. This was about decreasing the spending. Heck said Boehner was given a standing ovation after he outlined the deal to the rest of the GOP members. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 4/9/11] Questions Were Raised Over Whether Heck Supported Paul Ryans Budget Proposal In January 2011, the DCCC questioned whether Heck would follow his partys agenda and support Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryans budget proposal which would privatize social security and dismantle Medicare. [DCCC Press Release, 1/24/11] Said Government Shutdown Would Have Hurt People in District In 2011, Heck said he expected to vote for the continuing resolution on the 2011 budget. Heck made a plea to drop riders if necessary to avoid a government shutdown. We certainly have so many people hurting in District 3, whether its foreclosure, unemployment, bankruptcies, Heck said shortly after hearing the deal was struck, so Im glad those services will remain available for those folks. [Las Vegas Sun, 4/12/11] Said He was Trying to Avoid Pointing Fingers during Negations to Avoid Government Shutdown During budget negotiations to avoid a government shutdown Heck refused to sign a letter that demanded Reid Step down. We want to keep government functioning, we want to control spending -- theres got to be a way to support both of those goals. Im trying to stay above the fray, and not point fingers, Heck said. [Las Vegas Sun, 4/7/11] On Government Shutdown: Nobody Wants to Hold Social Security Checks Hostage, but We do Need to Rein in Spending When asked about his position on a government shutdown Heck said, Im hoping that the next continuing resolution will be the last one. We need put fiscal year 11 behind us and turn our attention to the fiscal year 12 budget process. He went on to say Nobody wants to hold Social Security checks hostage, but we do need to rein in spendingWe need to get our wasteful spending under control.
[Topline, ABC News, 6:00 3/29/11]

Was Accused of Hurting Nevada Residents in Vote for CR In February 2011 Heck was criticized by the DCCC for cutting almost $6 billion from affordable housing programs, cutting more than $700 million from programs that subsidize rent checks for seniors and the disabled, and eliminating housing counseling services for families facing foreclosure. Hecks Congressional District was described by the Las Vegas Sun as ground zero for the foreclosure crisis. [Las Vegas Sun, 2/23/11]

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Was Accused of Hurting Nevada Residents in Vote for CR; Defunding Grant for Sahara Avenue Americans United for Change targeted Heck for voting for the continuing resolution in February 2011. The group said Hecks vote cut funding for a $34 million grant to convert breakdown lanes on Sahara Avenue into bus lanes. Americans United executive director accused Heck of making cuts at the expense of people who are just trying to get to work. Heck responded by saying, Our countrys staggering debt is a key contributor to the uncertainty and instability. Reclaiming unspent stimulus money is one way to drive down the debt and begin addressing our governments spending problem, he said. We need to foster job-creating economic stability first, then we can address traffic congestion. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 2/24/11] Voted to Continue to Fund Government In March 2011, Heck voted to continue to fund the government. The bill passed 271-158. [Las Vegas
Review-Journal, 3/20/11]

Introduced Legislation to Avoid Duplication in Government In March 2011, Heck introduced legislation to mandate that committees file an official paper every time they voted on an new imitative to make sure it was duplicative. Hecks bill would not keep the program from going through if it was duplicative. His spokesman said Were trying to tackle this problem one step at a time. [Las Vegas Sun, 3/17/11]

Business and Consumer Issues

Said Small Businesses Backed Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act In March 2011, floor remarks Heck said local and national small businesses backed the plan to repeal the1099 provision. He said, I also rise in support of H.R. 4, the Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act of 2011. There is no doubt this job killing 1099 hidden tax deserves repeal. Nevadas unemployment rate is a Nation- high 14.5 percent. We need to create jobs. Eighty percent of Nevadas employees work for small businesses. [Heck Floor Remarks on HRes 129 (Rule to HR 4), 3/3/11] Said Regulations Stifled Growth and Contributed to Nevada Unemployment In March 2011, Heck spoke in favor of House Resolution 72 to review federal regulations that stifled job creation. He said economic uncertainty was causing Nevada to continue to suffer from high unemployment rates. He accused health care reform of creating additional regulations. We are only beginning to scratch Obamacares overly burdensome, regulatory riddled surface, and what weve found is alarming.

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He said regulations stifled economic stability a growth, but said I do believe smart regulations are a necessary and important part of the Federal Governments role in keeping us safe. [Heck Floor Remarks on H
Res 72, 2/11/11]

Campaign Finance Issues

Received $10,000 from Sheldon and Miriam Adelson Heck received a total of $10,000 from Sheldon and Miriam Adelson on March 31, 2011. Sheldon reported his occupation as owner of the Venetian Hotel while Miriam claimed to be a self employed physician. [Friends of Joe Heck, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11] Received $5,000 from Las Vegas Sands Corp PAC Heck received $5,000 from Las Vegas Sands Corp PAC on March 31, 2011. [Friends of Joe Heck, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11] Received $1,000 from HCA PAC Heck received $1,000 from HCA Good Government Fund PAC on March 31, 2011. [Friends of Joe Heck, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11] Received $1,000 from Metlife Inc. Employees PAC Heck received $1,000 from Metlife Inc. Employees PAC on March 30, 2011. [Friends of Joe Heck, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11] Received $1,000 from Humana Inc. PAC Heck received $1,000 from Humana Inc. PAC on March 31, 2011. [Friends of Joe Heck, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11] Received $2,000 from General Electric PAC Heck received a total of $2,000 from General Electric PAC. [Friends of Joe Heck, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11] Note: Heck marked one of the $1,000 contributions as a transfer memo item due to limits. However GE does not appear to have reached a PAC contribution limit. Further research will be necessary to determine his meaning. Received $384.62 from Blue Cross Blue Shield of SC PAC Heck received $384.62 from Blue Cross Blue Shield of SC PAC on February 28, 2011. [Friends of Joe Heck, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11] Received $1,000 from Sallie Mae Inc. PAC Heck received $1,000 from Sallie Mae Inc. PAC on March 21, 2011. [Friends of Joe Heck, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11] Received Over $30,000 from Health Care and Insurance Related PACs Heck received $33,884 from various health related PACs. The table below summarizes these contributions:

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Political Action Committee Amount ACSPA - Surgeons PAC $2,500 American Academy Of Ophthalmology PAC $5,000 American Assoc. of Clinical Urologists $1,000 American Healthcare Assoc. PAC $1,000 American Osteopathic Info. Association $5,000 Americas Health Insurance Plans PAC $1,000 Blue Cross Blue Shield of SC PAC $384 HCA Good Government Fund PAC $1,000 Humana Inc. PAC $1,000 Metlife Inc. Employees PAC $1,000 National Assoc Of Health UnderwritersPAC $3,000 National Emergency Medicine PAC $1,000 Neurosurgery PAC $2,500 PathPAC (College of American Pathologists) $5,000 American Assoc.of Orthopaedic Surg PAC $2,500 American Assoc.of Orthopaedic Surg PAC $1,000 Total $33,884 [Friends of Joe Heck, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11] Received Over $30,000 from Gaming and Gambling Related PACs Heck received $32,750 from various gaming and gabling related PACs. The table below summarizes these contributions: Political Action Committee Amount Caesars Entertainment PAC $5,000 International Game Technology PAC $3,750 Las Vegas Sands Corp PAC $5,000 MGM Resorts International PAC $5,000 MGM Resorts International PAC $5,000 Poker Players Alliance PAC $1,500 Station Casinos Inc. PAC $5,000 Wynn Resorts Ltd. PAC $2,500 Total $32,750 [Friends of Joe Heck, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11] Received $14,000 from Mining Related PACs Heck received $14,000 from various mining related PACs. The table below summarizes these contributions: Political Action Committee Arch Coal Inc. PAC Barrick Gold Of North America Inc. PAC Barrick Gold Of North America Inc. PAC Amount $1,000 $2,500 $2,500

14

COALPAC $1,000 Mednax Inc. Federal PAC $2,000 MINEPAC $2,000 Newmont Employees PAC $3,000 Total $14,000 [Friends of Joe Heck, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11] Received $7,250 from the Washington DC Area Heck received $7,250 from individuals located in the Washington, DC area. The table below summarizes these contributions: Last Name Faust King Nichols Olson Pickering Pieper Sliz Browder Laxalt McGinness Rosen Scofield First Name Marcus W. Russell William Sydney J. Elise Michael Deborah Kervin Paul Ryan Dean John State Amount Employer VA $1,000 Self Employed VA $1,000 .Information Requested VA $500 The Potomac Advocates VA $250 American Osteopathic Assoc. VA $500 Mehlman Vogel Castagnetti Inc. VA $1,000 R & R Partners VA $500 Morgan MeGuire DC $500 Furman Group Inc. DC $500 The Paul Laxalt Group DC $500 District Strategies DC $500 Mehlman Vogel Castagnetti Inc. DC $500 Podesta Group Total $7,250 [Friends of Joe Heck, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11] City Oakton Mc Lean Fairfax Station Alexandria Alexandria Lovettsville Arlington Washington Washington Washington Washington Washington Occupation Attorney .Information Requested Partner Executive Government Relations Government Relations President & CEO Government Relations Sole Proprietorship Government Affairs Executive Principal

Friends Of Joe Heck Campaign Account April Quarterly Report Analysis Total Raised: $223,954.94 Raised from PACs: $ 124,384.38 Cash on Hand: $ 147,360.14 Debt: $0
[Friends Of Joe Heck, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11]

Was in Debt After 2010 Campaign In February 2011, Heck reported that he was $203,000 in debt after his 2010 campaign. [The Hill, 2/6/11]

Crime & Public Safety Issues

Heck and Heller Opposed Republican Budget Cuts to COPs Program

15

In February 2011, Representative Heck and Representative Heller voted to spare the Community Oriented Policing Services program from the originally proposed $600 million in cuts. They voted to restore part of the funding back to provide grants to police departments. 70 Republicans in total voted to reject the termination of the program included in the GOP bill. Heck said, I understand how vital programs like COPS are to keeping our families and communities safe. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 2/17/11] Pressured by Police to Oppose Cuts to COPS Program In February 2011, the COPS program was put in jeopardy with the huge GOP budget cuts. Heck was pressured by police in his district to not vote for the cuts so their program, which aided them with computers and communication equipment, would not be cut as well. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 2/9/11]

Economic and Financial Issues

Advocate for Studying Problem of Airman Being Upside-Down in Mortgages

In 2011, Heck released survey results showing some 740 airmen are upside down on their mortgages but dont qualify for a Pentagon mortgage aid program. This is nearly 1,200 service members just at Nellis Air Force Base who are impacted by the declining real estate market, Heck said. Heck said the figures did not surprise him We have people who are being forced to move, not because theyve decided it is time to move or sell their homes, but because the military has said it is time to move, Heck said. They dont have the option to ride out the market and hope their home values return, he said. Any major base in a region with depressed housing -- which is about anywhere there is a base -has experienced the problem to a degree, but we have seen it much more in Southern Nevada, Heck said.
[Las Vegas Review-Journal, 5/12/11]

Added Provision into 2012 Defense Policy Bill to Study Mortgage Issues at Nellis and Creech Air Force Bases In 2011, Heck added a provision into the 2012 defense policy bill to study of the problem at Nellis and Creech Air Force bases, including possible solutions. Heck said the mortgage crisis is creating a readiness problem in the military. Service members become distracted by personal and financial issues, rather than focusing on their mission, he said. Lawmakers in the defense bill called on the Department of Defense to put together a plan to divert unnecessary military construction spending to make up a $400 million shortfall in the housing aid program. [Las Vegas Review-Journal,
5/12/11]

Said Both Parties Sinned on Spending In 2011, Heck said that he blamed both parties for overspending. His prepared remarks read, Both parties have been guilty of overspending and politicians from both sides have failed to prioritize, demand accountability, and make difficult decisions theyve failed to lead. To pretend otherwise simply perpetuates the status quo and guarantees an America defined by debt instead of by Greatness.

16

His prepared remarks went on to read, Both sides have sinned. We dont have to agree on everything, but we must view each idea and each piece of legislation with an eye toward the future of our nation instead of its impact on the next election. The hundreds of constituents Ive met with since being sworn in told me that they want to get back on their path to the American dream, and that path begins with a good job. They know that if they have a job and work hard, they can live the American dream. Heck, said both parties were guilty of failed leadership, and both sides have sinned. [Las Vegas TSG
Business News, remarks as prepared, assessed 4/28/11; Associated Press, 4/25/11]

Voted to Save Foreclosure Programs; Said Government Had Role in Helping People Heck explained his vote to save housing programs that helped families in foreclosure. He said government has a limited role in helping people. His prepared remarks read, Two months ago, just a few weeks into my term, two votes came up on the House Floor of whether or not to terminate certain housing programs. The programs were very unpopular among many conservatives. I received information telling me how terrible these programs were and that they hadnt live up to their potential. The truth is they havent. His prepared remarks went on to read, I knew that many of the people who voted for me in November probably wanted me to vote to terminate the programs. I believe in cutting government waste and I have been a vocal advocate of eliminating programs that have outlived their purpose or have lost sight of their original mission. I also know that government does have a limited role in helping people help themselves Those two housing programs have helped more than 17,000 Nevadans stay in their homes. They help the very people the government should be helping. [Las Vegas TSG Business News, remarks as
prepared, assessed 4/28/11]

Said Federal Government Caused Economic Crisis In 2011, Heck asserted that the economic crisis was due to the Federal Government. That lack of leadership seeped into our daily lives and rotted Americas economic foundations to the core. [Las Vegas
TSG Business News, remarks as prepared, assessed 4/28/11]

Education Issues
Said Economic Potential was Good Education In 2011, Heck said despite the recession education would ensure economic success. Hecks prepared remarks read, These are todays challenges. Despite the challenges, we have an opportunity to remake Nevada for the future. That future is through education. You cant cure an illness until you understand the cause. We will not fulfill our economic potential as a state or a nation unless we fix our educational system. We will not successfully recruit high tech industries and research and development opportunities to Nevada without providing a world-class education to our children. Education will ensure our children have the tools they need to compete in todays global economy. Heck said education spending was necessary to diversify the economy. He also acknowledged that it was difficult to grow the economy and attract high end businesses without a good educational system. Youve got to concentrate on what generates a result, he said. That is why career and technical

17

education needs to be funded and funded well. [Las Vegas TSG Business News, remarks as prepared, assessed
4/28/11; Nevada News Bureau, 4/25/11] Called on by DCCC to Oppose Plan to Cut education and Research by 40 Percent

The DCCC launched ad against Heck because he won his district by less than 2,000 votes. Heck said his highest priority was job creation. The ad said Tell Congressman Joe Heck to oppose the partisan plan to cut education and research by 40 percent. It will cost hundreds of thousands of jobs and make America less competitive. [Las Vegas Sun,
1/31/11]

Energy Issues
GOP Budget Would Gut DOE Loan Guarantees For Renewable Energy Projects
In April 2011 the Reno Gazette-Journal wrote, One of the casualties for H.R 1 is the Department of Energys loan guarantee program for renewable energy projects. Created with bipartisan support as part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the loan guarantee program helps encourage private financing for clean energy technology by mitigating some of the risks that might discourage investors and lenders. [Reno Gazette-Journal, 4/3/11] Flagship Project Expected To Power About 75,000 NV Energy Customers And Create 600 Jobs On-Site In March 2011 the Las Vegas Sun wrote, Since it was officially announced in late 2009, the Crescent Dunes Solar Energy Project in Tonopah has been one of Nevadas flagship commercial renewable energy projects. The planned 110-megawatt energy storage facility nearly twice the capacity of the states next largest solar plant is expected to power about 75,000 NV Energy customers and create 600 jobs on-site. [Las Vegas Sun, 3/3/11] Funding Loss Would Put Over 1,700 Nevada Jobs At Risk, Reduce State Revenue In April 2011 the Reno Gazette-Journal wrote, The projects are even more important given Nevadas struggle with unemployment. The DOE estimates the five projects in Nevada will create 1,749 construction jobs and 314 permanent jobs. The facilities also are expected to generate extra economic activity for other businesses along with additional revenue for the state. Solar Reserve alone projects to pay about $10 million a year in total salaries and generate $40 million in local tax revenue for the first 10 years of the project [Reno Gazette-Journal, 4/3/11]

Hosted a Town Hall Meeting at an American Legion Post After He Called Social Security a Pyramid Scheme In 2011, Heck hosted his first town hall with constituents in June at an American Legion post since he called Social Security a pyramid scheme. Heck focused on veterans issues. Heck made the Social Security comment at his last town hall in May. He was discussing the sustainability of continuing to pay benefits to people as they live longer. He did not apologize when the comment was met with disapproval from his audience in May. [RGJ, 6/08/11] Protected Tax Credits for Top Oil Companies

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Heck voted against taking away billions of dollars in tax credit from the top five oil companies. [Las Vegas
Review-Journal, 5/8/11]

Voted To Speed Up Drilling Leases In Gulf Hurting Safety of Drilling In May 2011, Heck voted for a bill to speed up and set deadlines for four drilling leases in the Gulf of Mexico put on hold or canceled because of the BP oil spill. Democrats also argued that the relatively quick auction deadlines in the bill would undercut safety reviews put in place following last years oil spill disaster in the Gulf of Mexico. The bill passed 266-149. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 5/8/11] Said Domestic Drilling Would Help Long-Term Gas Prices; Hybrid Vehicles Not Cost Effective Heck was asked why the price of gas was so high. He said people want to know what we are going to do about gas prices. These prices are a result of our failed energy policies for decades, a failure to exploit our energy resources at home. As we did a layover in Belgium it was $10 per gallon. Heck said drilling now will prevent spikes in 10 years, it wont help immediately. The single largest driver of the cost of gas is the price of barrel for oil. We are at 10 dollars per barrel. We have a lot taxes on energy. With the push for hybrid vehicles, the initial cost of the hybrid doesnt pencil out. You are not going to save money on these types of vehicles. [Heidi Harris, KDWN 720 AM, Summary, 4/28/11] Flip: Bragged that He Voted for Continuation of Federal Loan Guarantees for Renewable Energy In 2011, Heck said he supported the continuation of federal loan guarantees for renewable energy. But we must also look past the energy production side of the equation, he said. We must have serious discussions about bringing the research and development as well as the manufacturing components of this industry to Nevada. That is where the sustainable, good-paying jobs will materialize. I will continue to support research and development tax credits, work to streamline the bureaucracy to access Nevadas lands that remain under federal control, and expedite the federal permitting process while protecting the environment and maintaining safety. [Nevada News Bureau, 4/25/11] Flop: Voted to Cut Renewable Projects in Nevada Estimated to Create Thousands of Jobs Heck voted to cut the Department of Energys loan guarantee program for renewable projects in February 2011. The removal of the program jeopardized five renewable projects in Nevada. The five projects were estimated to create 1,749 construction jobs and 314 permanent jobs, according to the DOE. Sen. Harry Reid pushed to get the program back in the budget in March 2011. [HR 1, Vote #147; Las Vegas Review-Journal,
4/15/11]

Did Not Strongly Oppose Yucca; Said Yucca Could Be Used as Reprocessing Facility In February 2011, the Las Vegas Sun reported Heck was an exception to Nevadas delegation members who opposed Yucca Mountain. Current freshman Republican Rep. Joe Heck is the first exception to that rule -- he maintains that Yucca could be used as some sort of reprocessing facility in the future. [Las
Vegas Sun, 2/14/11]

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Republicans Push to Ax Loan Program for Solar Energy Project In March 2011, Heck was called on to go against his fellow Republicans who considering axing a loan program for the Crescent Dunes Solar Energy Project. The project was planned was estimated to create 600 on-site jobs in Nevada and be a great source renewable energy for the state. The loan was used to get the project started. [Las Vegas Sun, 3/7/11] Favored Drilling for Oil in U.S. and Ending Burdensome Government Regulations Rep. Heck said the economy was the most important issue. He said he would remove uncertainty and barriers to success. He said government regulations burdened job creation and used a swimming analogy. He also said that he favored an all of the above energy approach, including drilling for oil. [Joe Heck
Responds to Constituent Mail, Summary, 3/17/11]

Suggested Using Yucca Mountain as a Nuclear Re-Processing Site In March 2011, The Las Vegas Sun reported that Heck had previously suggested the use of Yucca Mountain as a potential nuclear reprocessing facility. [Las Vegas Sun, 3/30/11] Favored Cuts for Nuclear Energy Safety Even After Japan In 2011, Heck said he wouldnt reconsider his vote to cut Department of Energys nuclear energy safety programs, even after the nuclear crisis in Japan. I would not reconsider the nuclear cuts, Rep. Heck said. The appropriations committee did due process in looking at where there was the ability to cut some spending and thats what we did and now its time to look forward to fiscal year 12. [The Note, ABC News, 3/29/11] Heck Introduced Bill to Renew and Expand Contracts for Electricity from Hoover Dam In January 2011, Heck introduced his first piece of legislation, a bill to renew and expand contracts for electricity from the Hoover Dam. Certainty about the future is what our economy needs right now in order to get people back to work, Heck said. This bipartisan bill ensures Nevadas businesses and individuals have a reliable and clean energy source for years to come. [Las Vegas Review Journal, 1/27/11]

Environmental Issues Ethics Issues Foreign Policy Issues Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran, North Korea Gambling Issues
20

Opposed Obamas Position on Israel Negotiating over 1967 Lines

Heck was asked about President Obamas position on Israel negotiating over 1967 lines Heck said that is a difficult position to put Israel in. He said the statement that was made was not the right policy and it was not the best thing for Israel. Heck said the U.S. needed to take care of debt before investing in other countries. [Face to Face with Jon
Ralston, Summary, Part 1, 5/19/11]

Did Not Want To Cut Aid To Pakistan In May 2011 after finding our bin Laden had been hiding in Pakistan, Heck believed it was not the right time to cut aid to the country. I dont think we need to cut off aid just yet. We need to further clarify our relationship with Pakistan ... but they are still a critical asset and ally in the fight against terror, and we need to continue that relationship, he said. [ABC News, 5/3/11] Said He was Concerned About Amount of Foreign Aid Being Given Out Heck was asked why America was giving foreign aid to China on the Heidi Harris. He said were revisiting all of the foreign aid packages. All of the foreign financial aid is being re-visited. Certainly, there will be countries that we have to give foreign aid to. The issue with Pakistan is its our only route to get troops into Iraq. Were all very concerned about the amount of foreign aid. [Heidi Harris, KDWN 720 AM,
Summary, 6/8/11]

Wanted More Information from President on Libya Heck was asked about Libya on the Heidi Harris. He said he was waiting 14 days and Obama needed to give Congress the information or money would be withheld. [Heidi Harris, KDWN 720 AM, Summary, 6/8/11] Criticized U.S for Involvement in Libya, However Did Not Vote for Immediate Withdrawal In 2011, Heck was one of the most vocal critics of U.S military involvement in Libya, but when given the opportunity to vote on a legislation that required an almost-immediate U.S withdrawal from the mission, he voted against it. Heck voted against legislation that called for a U.S pullout within 15 days and voted for a more modest resolution that gave Obama two weeks to tell Congress details of United States security interests and objectives in Libya. Heck voted against withdrawing from Libya because he thinks 15 days is not enough time to give our allies a chance to adjust their operational strategy to continue operations over there, his spokesman Darren Littell said. [Las Vegas Review Journal, 6/03/11] Traveled to Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iraq

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In April 2011, Heck toured U.S. war zones in Afghanistan. He traveled with a delegation that spent time in Pakistan and Iraq as well. [Las Vegas Review Journal, 4/20/11] April 2011: Visited Iraq In April 2011 Heck joined a delegation headed by Speak Boehner in a visit to Iraq. Heck spent a twoweek recess in Iraq as part of a six-member tour led by House Speaker John Boehner. Heck wore fatigues on a previous stint in Iraq, when he was deployed as a U.S. Army reservist for three months in 2008. [Las
Vegas Review Journal, 4/18/11; USA Today, 4/18/11]

Co-Sponsored Legislation to Amend Rule for Computer-Based Gambling Machines

Heck co-sponsored H.R. 427 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a 5-year recovery period for computerbased gambling machines. [Official Press Release, Dean Heller, 1/27/11] Heck said if President Obama was serious about his economic promises in his State of the Union address he looked forward to working with him. I applauded the president's commitment to demonstrating fiscal restraint.

Gay and Lesbian Issues Gun Issues Health Care Issues

Refused to Criticized Romney for Supporting Healthcare in Massachusetts Heck was asked about Romneys speech on health care. Heck said healthcare was one issue. Heck said he did what any governor would do to try to find a solution for the state. The fact is he did what a Governor should do. I do not support the individual mandate, but that was what he thought would be the best thing for his state at a specific point in time. [Face to Face with Jon Ralston, Summary, Part 2, 5/19/11] Said Only Exception on Obamacare was for Religious Purposes Heck was asked how a constituent could avoid participating in Obamacare. Heck said there was a provision for religious exceptions, but there were no exceptions. He said there is no exception for members of Congress. But the only individual exception is for religious purposes. [Heidi Harris, KDWN 720
AM, Summary, 6/8/11]

Backed Plan to Cut Social Security and Medicare; Spokesperson Said Proposed Changes Wouldnt Impact Current Recipients In March 2011, Heck was targeted by national Democrats that focused on cuts to Social Security and Medicare. Democrats said Heck backed a plan to cut Social Security and Medicare, Hecks spokesperson, said the proposed changes wouldnt impact current recipients of those programs. [The Republic, 3/23/11] Endorsed Romneys Massachusetts Health Care Plan

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Heck was asked about his support for Romneys universal healthcare. Heck said Well, you know thats not a concern for me because the fact is that what the governor did was do what all governors should do and look at whats going to work best for their state, not take some one-size-fits-all government mandate and run it through the entire country. You know, he looked at what he thought would work for his state. He went on to say Well, you know, theres a lot more insured people in the state of Massachusetts, but the important thing was it was a program designed by the state for the state, not a federal program thats being rammed down the states. [Topline, ABC News, 3/29/11] Accused Logistics Health Incorporated of Driving Up Costs for Army In March 2011, Heck accused Logistics Health Incorporated (LHI) of driving up costs and reducing the readiness of medics and reserve units. He said the company put up barriers to care and cut training opportunities. It doesnt really accomplish that in a timely, cost-effective manner, he said. [Gazette, 3/29/11; Daily Press,
3/27/11]

Questioned LHI Parameter for Rendering Reservists Non-Deployable In March 2011, Heck questioned LHIs standard for rendering reservists, non-deployable. He pointed out that many medical professionals used through the company were not deployable. Heck estimated that 10,000 Army Reservists had aP-3 profile from LHI, that rendered them medically non-deployable. And most of those, I am sure, will be adjudicated not valid. [Gazette,
3/29/11; Daily Press, 3/27/11]

Favored Dismantling Healthcare Reform and Allowing Insurance to be Purchased Across State Lines In 2010 Heck campaigned on healthcare, saying he would repeal, repair, replace. He used his experience as an emergency room physician and commander of an Army hospital to tout his knowledge of the healthcare system. He said that he wanted to replace healthcare reform and touted his vote for the repeal of the law. He said The approach I have is patient-centered, its not the requirement to buy a certain package from a certain vender and youre dictated what kind of coverage you must have. [The Hill, 4/4/11] Said He Agreed with President on Preexisting Condition Exclusions and Goals of Healthcare Reform Heck said he agreed with the President in that healthcare reform should secure insurance for people who already have it, provide an option for people without it and bring down healthcare costs.

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No preexisting condition exclusions have merit, Heck said. Same things with no lifetime caps, not being kicked off the day after you get sick and extensions of coverage for dependents.
[The Hill, 4/4/11]

Favored Allowing Insurance to Be Purchased Across State Lines In 2011, Heck said Americans should be able to purchase insurance across state lines and supported regional insurance pools to reduce costs. He also favored high-risk pools rather than exchanges. [The Hill, 4/4/11] Defended Taking Government Health Care Saying He had to Pay a Premium In February 2011, Heck defended the fact that he has government health care, despite opposing the health reform law. He said he still had to pay a premium on the government healthcare. Actually, the employer health care that I had at my previous job was better and cheaper than the one that I have now, Heck said. [Fox5 News, 2/2/11] Heck was critical of the health care coverage he received as a member of Congress, saying the health insurance provided under his former job as an emergency room physician was better and cheaper. [Associated Press, 2/4/11] Opposed Provisions in Healthcare Law that Required Minimum Package of Benefits In 2011, Heck said that he opposed provisions in healthcare law that required that insurers provide a minimum package of benefits. I've often talked about single males having to pay for mammograms and single females having to pay for prostate cancer checks, he said. Let people buy the product that they need. [kaiserhealthnews.com, 1/19/11] Said He Couldnt Guarantee Vote for Healthcare Repeal Unless He Had Firm Grasp of Replacement In 2011, Heck said that he could not guarantee his vote for repeal unless he had a firm grasp of what the GOPs replacement legislation would look like. [kaiserhealthnews.com, 1/19/11] Shifted Rhetoric to Explain His Position on Healthcare Repeal Since March 2010, Hecks rhetoric to explain his position on healthcare repeal has shifted. In March 2010, the day that Congress approved healthcare reform, Heck wrote on his campaign website, You have my word that when Im in Congress I will do everything possible to repeal this horrible bill. But two weeks later, Heck said during an interview, I dont think youve ever heard me say lets repeal the whole bill.

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Then after Heck won his 2010 election, he complimented parts of the bill, saying, I think there are things in the bill that need to be fixed, things that need to be done away with and things that we need to preserve. Three of the four points Heck stressed should be in healthcare reform were already part of the Democratic-supported healthcare law. [Las Vegas Sun, 1/20/11]

Housing Issues
Voted to Cut Neighborhood Stabilization Program In March 2011, Heck voted in favor of the Neighborhood Stabilization Program Termination Act. The program provided grants to states and local governments to redevelop foreclosed properties. Clark County received $45.8 million in grants. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 3/14/11; HR 861, Vote #188, 3/16/11] Criticized for Voting to Cut Program that Helped Seniors Stay in Own Homes, Saving State Over a Billion Dollars a Year In March 2011, the President of the Nevada Senior Corps Association voiced her disappointment that Heck voted for H.R. because it cut funding for many volunteer programs. She wrote that the bill eliminated the Corporation for National and Community Service, which funded the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, the Foster Grandparent and the Senior Companion Programs. She wrote In Nevada, we have three RSVP Programs; two Foster Grandparent Programs and two Senior Companion Programs that collectively have around 4,000 volunteers who provide free services to thousands of seniors to keep them safe and at home as long as possible, saving the state over a billion dollars a year in institutional care costs. [Op-ed, President, Nevada Senior Corps Association, Nevada Appeal,
3/22/11]

Voted Against Cutting Aid to Assist Homeowners in Underwater Loans In March 2011, Heck voted against a bill to defund a Federal Housing Administration program to assist homeowners with underwater loans because his district had more foreclosures than any other in the county. I agree that people need a paycheck, not a government check, he said on the House floor prior to the vote. But we must help individuals who are trying to do the right thing. Heck called his district ground zero for Americas housing crisis, with 390,192 underwater mortgages statewide. [Las Vegas Sun, 3/10/11] Editorial from Las Vegas Review Journal Said Nevada Would Not Miss Program to Help Underwater Homeowners In March 2011, the Las Vegas Review Journal editorialized on Hecks vote to help underwater homeowners in Nevada. They wrote We understand why Rep. Heck thinks the program might be worth saving. It's administered by lenders, not the government. And about three-quarters of valley homeowners are underwater. If each of them could refinance to a lower interest rate, they could either spend that extra

25

money at struggling businesses or more quickly pay down their principal. The paper said Southern Nevadans won't miss something that never helped in the first place. [Las Vegas Review Journal, 3/25/11] Voted Against Reducing Mortgage Relief Program In March 2011, Heck voted against a Republican piece of legislation intended to reduce the costs associated with mortgage payments for homeowners in danger of losing their homes to foreclosure. Today, I voted to keep a program that helps Nevadans stay in their homes. Programs like HAMP offer Nevadas families a landing softer than a hard crash, until market forces ultimately do their work and our economy recovers, Heck said. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 3/30/11] Voted Against Eliminating Mortgage Relief Program to Help Homeowners Avoid Foreclosure In March 2011, Heck voted against eliminating a mortgage relief program the Obama administration established to help homeowners avoid foreclosure. According to the Congressional Budget Office, 550,000 modifications have been completed at a cost of $840 million. [Las Vegas Review Journal, 4/3/11] Defended Votes Against Terminating Federal Housing Authority Refinancing and Home Affordable Modification Program In 2011, Heck said he voted against terminating the Federal Housing Authority Refinancing program and the Home Affordable Modification Program because hundreds of thousands of homeowners in Nevada were underwater. There is an opportunity for them to refinance their mortgage and get a lower payment, were not looking at giving them a principal reduction, nothing crazy, just doing a refi[nance] so they can get a lower payment due to a lower interest rate and save $400-$500 dollars a month, Heck said. To me thats the kind of program that does make sense. [The Hill, 4/4/11] Faced Vote on Cuts to Two Housing Programs that Helped His District In March 2011, Heck faced two votes on programs to help struggling homeowners. Heck was the only Republican to vote to save a Federal Housing Administration refinancing program. He had yet to vote on the Home Affordable Modification Program and the Neighborhood Stabilization Program. The programs provided millions in funding to help Nevada homeowners, including $45.8 million in grants to 3rd district Clark County. [The Hill, 3/14/11] Voted for the Emergency Mortgage Relief Termination Act; Nevada was not Eligible for Aid Under the Program In March 2011, Heck voted for H.R. 836, Emergency Mortgage Relief Termination Act to Eliminate the mortgage relief program which gave unemployed homeowners the ability to pay their mortgage for up to 12 months. Nevada was not eligible for the program because the state was helped Department of Treasury's Hardest Hit program. [H.R. 836, Vote #174, 3/11/11; Las Vegas Sun, 3/9/11]

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Voted Against FHA Refinance Program Termination Act Because Homeowners in District Needed Help On March 10, 2011 Heck said he voted against H.R. 830, the FHA Refinance Program Termination Act because he represented a district where hundreds of thousands of families were under water with their mortgages. He said I represent the district that is truly ground zero for Americas housing crisis; 390,192 mortgages in Nevada are underwater. Let me say that again: 390,192 families in Nevada are underwater. He went on to say that the program helped Nevadans the ability to refinance their loans and a failed PR job was not a good enough reason to vote against it. [Heck Floor Remarks on HR 830, 3/10/11] Was Expected to Vote for FHA Program to Help Homeowners Refinance; District Had Highest Foreclosure Rate in Nation In March 2011, Heck was expected to vote to save the Federal Housing Administration program that helped homeowners refinance with underwater loans. Thus far $50 million of that $8 billion available for the program had been given out. Hecks district ranked the highest in the nation in 2010 for foreclosures.
[Las Vegas Sun, 3/9/11]

Voted Against Cutting Federal Housing Administration Refinancing Program In March 2011, Heck faced difficult votes on housing in Congress because Nevada was devastated by the foreclosure crisis. He was the only Republican to vote to save the Federal Housing Administration refinancing program. Heck voted to end an Urban Development program, but it did not effect Nevada. In a video explaining his vote Heck said some will probably see this as an opportunity to score political points and say I dont care about Nevada families who are struggling with housing issues, he says. Nothing could be further from the truth. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 3/14/11]

Immigration and Border Issues

Opposed Going into Libya from Beginning When asked about Libyans and Syria Heck said I was very vocal about operations in Libya saying we cant be the worlds 911. It concerns me that Congress wasnt involved in the process. In the Ivory Coast thousands of people are being slaughtered. There was no clearly articulated reason to go into Libya. [Heidi
Harris, KDWN 720 AM, Summary, 4/28/11]

Talked About Progress Being Made in Afghanistan The Department of Defense from a national security perspective, you have to have an all of the above energy approach. We were over there last week, we visited Iraq and Pakistan. We attended a funeral and the issue with the Afghan national who gunned down our military folks. We are worried about terrorists getting uniforms to infiltrate. Our forces are making incredible progress on joint missions with NATO and Afghanis are motivated to provide security for their nation.

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The goal is to make sure the terrorists dont get back into power. The Taliban is on the run. When asked how long America should stay in Afghanistan Heck said weve got to make sure they are set up for success. I think we are on that path. The timeline is 2014 we are out of Afghanistan. Will they be able to provide for external security? I dont know. I think we are making gains. The NATO training mission is doing incredible work. [Heidi Harris, KDWN 720 AM, Summary, 4/28/11]
Said 14th Amendment Should Be Interpreted Differently: No Birth Right Citizenship

In February 2011, Heck said he did not believe in automatic birth right citizenship. He said he wouldnt change the 14th amendment, but he would interpret it differently. I dont necessarily believe that you should have automatic birth right citizenship, he said. I believe that if youre born to somebody that is a citizen, that you should have birth right citizenship. [Fox5 News,
2/2/11]

Heck said citizenship should not be automatically granted to U.S.-born children. He told constituents that the 14th Amendment needed to be reinterpreted. [Associated Press, 2/4/11]

Jobs
Was Working to Bring New Technology Jobs to Nevada Heck was asked about the new jobs being created in Nevada. He said we need to attack the problem from both sides, brining in new jobs. We have lost 60% of our construction jobs, we need to maintain the service industry and those are the types of things we are working on. Look-it we are first in last out like the Marines. We are working on bringing those new technologies. We have to get away from mining and tourism as our main revenue. [Heidi Harris, KDWN 720 AM, Summary, 4/28/11] Was Focused on Bringing Research and Development Jobs to State In 2011, Heck said he wanted to discuss bringing research and development to Nevada to create good paying jobs. Hecks prepared remarks read, But we must also look past the energy production side of the equation. We must have serious discussions about bringing the research and development as well as the manufacturing components of this industry to Nevada. That is where the sustainable, good-paying jobs will materialize. I will continue to support research and development tax credits, work to streamline the bureaucracy to access Nevadas lands that remain under federal control, and expedite the federal permitting process while protecting the environment and maintaining safety. [Las Vegas TSG Business News,
remarks as prepared, assessed 4/28/11]

Said Cutting Federal Government Would Create Jobs In remarks to the press after his speech to the legislature Heck said We need the jobs, he said. And burdening businesses, burdening individuals with higher taxes, is not going to create jobs. I think youve got to exhaust every possible opportunity to rein in those programs that have lost sight of their original mission, or arent accomplishing what they were intended to accomplish and that means cutting, he said. Every program means something to somebody. [Nevada News Bureau, 4/25/11]

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Voted to Cut Renewable Projects in Nevada Estimated to Create Thousands of Jobs Heck voted to cut the Department of Energys loan guarantee program for renewable projects in February 2011. The removal of the program jeopardized five renewable projects in Nevada. The five projects were estimated to create 1,749 construction jobs and 314 permanent jobs, according to the DOE. Sen. Harry Reid pushed to get the program back in the budget in March 2011. [HR 1, Vote #147; Las Vegas Review-Journal,
4/15/11]

Said He Would Continue to Work to Get Nevadans Back to Work In a March, 2011statement on the unemployment figures Heck said he would continue to work to get Nevadans back to work. He said, unemployment numbers show there is still a lot to do to get Nevadans back to work. Im hopeful these latest numbers signal small-business owners are starting to feel the certainty they need to create jobs, but this is just a small step in the right direction. Nevadas unemployment rate is still too high. I will continue working to help create jobs until Nevadas economy is vibrant again. [Rep. Heck, press
release, 3/4/11]

Did Not Respond to Requests Comment on Vote to Cut Jobs Funds Which Helped the Unemployed In 2011, Heck voted to cut $30 million in job training funds. The spending bill passed by the House cut Workforce Investment Act funds, which could hurt the unemployed in Nevada. The program funded job training programs across Nevada and served 8,800 people last fiscal year, a 295 percent increase from the two previous years. Nevadas unemployment rate raced a record 14.5 percent in December. Headline: U.S. House bill to slash job funds Heck did not respond to requests to comment on his vote. [Nevada Appeal, 3/10/11; Gannett, 3/10/11]

Israel Labor and Working Family Issues

Voted for Two Bills that Hurt Unions In March 2011, Heck voted for the Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill. The House approved a Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill that President Barack Obama has threatened to veto over labor and safety issues, and subsidies for flights to remote communities. The Obama administration said the bill was anti-labor. Heck also voted against an amendment that would have made it easier for railroad and airline workers to unionize. [Las Vegas Review Journal, 4/3/11] Talked About Importance of Creating Jobs after Ford Announced Closure Affecting 200 Workers

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As of January 2011, Ford Motor Credit company announced it would close in Henderson, NV, leaving 200 people without a job. Heck said Ford was doing everything it could to reduce the impact to employees. It underscores the need to focus on creating jobs, said Heck. The road to recovery is not easy, but I believe we can get on the right path and I will be there every step of the way. Ford laid off half of its 700 employees in 2009. Employees salaries started at $25,000 and came with medical benefits as well as profit sharing, a retirement plan and bonus pay. [Las Vegas Review-Journal,
1/20/11]

Land Issues
Opposed Gravel Quarry in Sloan Hills In 2011, Heck said he supported legislation backed by Reid and Ensign to oppose a gravel quarry at Sloan Hills outside Henderson. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 3/2/11]

Military Issues
Praised House Armed Services Committee for Bipartisanship In May 2011, Heck praised the House Armed Services Committee for remaining bipartisan to get the military what they needed. It continues to be very bipartisan, even with an influx of freshmen to that committee. When it comes to defense, its one area everyone seems to rally around and make sure troops have the tools they need to do what they have to do, he said. [Politico, 5/9/11] Voted Against Resolution to Withdraw Troops from Afghanistan In March 2011, Heck against a resolution calling for U.S. troops to be withdrawn from Afghanistan by years end. The bill passed 321-93. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 3/20/11] Named Chairman of a House Subcommittee That Monitored Intelligence Gathering In March 2011, Heck was named chairman of the House subcommittee that monitored the governments technical intelligence gathering. I intend to work closely with other members to provide thorough oversight and meaningful reforms to keep our families and communities safe, Heck said. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 3/4/11] Said He Had Reservations Over U.S. Participating in Libya

30

Republican Rep. Joe Heck said he had serious reservations about the U.S. participating in a no-fly zone in Libya. One, the president bypassed Congress. Two, theres no clear-cut national security objective thats been clearly articulated, Heck said. There may be a moral imperative to go in and try to help the Libyans, but there are moral imperatives to go into many other countries around the world and help those people as well. [Las Vegas Review Journal, 3/24/11] Did Not Feel Obama Made Case to Go into Libya Heck said he still had many questions to ask President Obama on Libya and said the budget battles put the Department of Defense in a rough spot. [The Note, ABC News, 3/29/11] Did Not Believe Democracy was Possible in Afghanistan and Iraq and Opposed Public Timetable In 2011, Heck said Democracy in Afghanistan and Iraq would never happen. He said it was worth fighting to give the people a people-centered, not ruler-centered government. If success was instilling a democracy, I dont think well ever be successful, Heck said. I dont believe youre going to instill democracy in places that have millennia of tribal fighting. [The Hill, 4/4/11] In 2011, Heck said the President should not make a public timetable for withdrawal from Afghanistan and Iraq. I dont believe the civilian power should have the timeline for withdrawal, Heck said. I think that when a general says I can let a brigade go home, thats when the brigade goes home, not because somebody says this month so many brigades are coming out, next month so many brigades are coming out. [The Hill, 4/4/11] Opposed Military Action in Libya; Worried About Gas Prices As a member of the Education and the Workforce and Armed Services committees Heck was focused on protests in the Middle East and their effect on oil prices. He did not believe the United States should have gotten involved in Libya. I think were still prosecuting military activities on two fronts, Heck said. I dont believe our military can sustain another front. [The Hill, 4/4/11] Visited Guantanamo Bay Detention Center; Favored Keeping it Open In April 2011, Heck took a one-day trip to the Guantanamo Bay detention center. He touted the facilities along with other members of the House Armed Services Committee. Obama reversed his decision to transfer top terrorist suspects to America for trial. Heck said he agreed with the decision to keep the detention center open.

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Heck agreed with the administration's decision to keep open the detention camp, a spokesman said, but other details of the tour were not immediately available.
[Las Vegas Review Journal, 4/12/11]

Personal Issues
Said Releasing Birth Certificate was Way for Obama to Get News Heck was asked about the birther conspiracy. Heck said there was some controversy over his birth certificate, but it was a way to keep Obamas name in the news. Heck was asked about Presidential candidates for 2012. He said Tim Pawlenty had great ideas and Mitt Romney will always be a viable candidate. I dont necessarily think Trump is a viable candidate. He said Chris Christie was a dynamite speaker. [Heidi Harris, KDWN 720 AM, Summary, 4/28/11] Said Shaping Policy was Best Part of Being Congressman Heck said being able to shape policy to make things better is the best thing about being a Congressman. We did a town hall a few weeks back where people were very energized about a vote I made. When you explain the vote people have a light bulb on. [Heidi Harris, KDWN 720 AM, Summary, 4/28/11] Titus was Attacked by UNLV Republicans Run by 36-Year Old Former Employee of Hecks and the Republican National Committee In 2011, Mark Ciavola, a 36 year old former employee of Hecks and the Republican National Committee, was elected head of the College Republicans at UNLV. He has continued the campaign against Dina Titus. The Republican group, full of former Heck employees, continued to send emails blasting Titus to a list of 500 followers. The group attacked Titus for her course load and campus radio show at womanwithout-integrity.com. Dina Titus isnt the problem, shes a symptom of the problem, which is how UNLV spends money, said Ciavola, describing administrators as hypocritical for paying Titus almost $108,000 to teach one class while crying poverty and threatening to cut classes and raise tuition. Titus said I think they see me as a potential opponent, thats why they are continuing to do this. What disturbs me is Im not a candidate. Im not an elected official. Im a faculty member. [Las Vegas Sun,
4/4/11]

Said He Slept in Washington, D.C. Office Heck took a CBS News survey and said he was sleeping in his Washington, D.C. office. [Marketwire.
1/27/11]

Personally Laid off Entire Staff of Small Business Before Being Sworn into Office Five days before his 2011 swearing into office, Heck dissolved his consulting business, Specialized Medical Operations, and laid off its staff.
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There was no way we could figure out how to have personnel run it without me being integrally involved, Heck said, adding that his employees are in in varying degrees of unemployment. [Las Vegas
Sun, 1/10/10]

Despite Saying Jobs Was His Top Priority According to the Las Vegas Sun, Heck said jobs were his highest priority. [Las Vegas Sun, 1/10/10] Heck Said He Will Take Congressional Health Care In 2011, Hecks aides reported that Heck will take advantage of the Congressional health insurance plan. Just like millions of Americans, Dr. Heck will be receiving his insurance through his employer -- in this case the House of Representatives, Grant Hewitt, Hecks transition director said. [Las Vegas Sun, 1/06/11] And Voted Against Measure Disclose Whether Members Will Accept Government Health Care In January 2011, in one of his first moves in Congress, Heck opposed a measure that would have required members of Congress to disclose whether they will accept government health care. [Las
Vegas Sun, 1/06/11]

Political Issues
Said Photos of Obama Should be Released
Heck said the pictures of Obama needed to be released. [Face to Face with Jon Ralston, Summary, Part 3, 5/19/11]

Spoke at Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery on Memorial Day In 2011, Heck spoke on Memorial Day at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City. The graves around us, at Arlington and at cemeteries around the world serve to remind us that freedom isnt free, it has a cost, and I cant talk about that cost without also asking you to remember our gold star families who stood strong through adversity We will never truly know the depths of their pain but we should all share in their grief, Heck said. [Las Vegas Sun, 5/30/11]
In NRCC Patriot Program for Incumbent Protection

In 2011, it was announced that Heck was in the Patriot Program, The National Republican Congressional
Committeewill launch the Patriot Program, a tough-love incumbent protection effort designed to assist freshmen and a few longer-serving lawmakers expected to face difficult paths to reelection. [Politico, 6/1/11]
Took Over Legislation from Heller to Block Development of Gravel Quarry at Sloan Hills

33

In 2011, Heck took the lead on legislation to block development of a gravel quarry at Sloan Hills after Heller became a Senator. We had cosponsored it and have been following up on that so it wasnt going to fall in the cracks, Heck spokesman Darren Littell said. On March 1, Heller, with Heck and Berkley reintroduced a bill that would declare mining off limits on 800 acres overseen by the Bureau of Land Management at Sloan Hills outside Henderson. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 5/10/11] Protected Tax Credits for Top Oil Companies Heck voted against taking away billions of dollars in tax credit from the top five oil companies. [Las Vegas
Review-Journal, 5/8/11]

Said Republicans Were the Party of No Heck was asked about his speech to the legislature. He said he was glad he was not in the legislature. We are the ones who are the party of no. The election in November has consequences, so we are trying to bring about change. People dont want higher taxes, they want predictability. We are getting stonewalled.
[Heidi Harris, KDWN 720 AM, Summary, 4/28/11]

Headline: Congressman Heck Collects $224,000 in First Quarter In 2011, Heck raised $224,000 to his re-election fund in the first quarter of 2011. He had a joint fundraiser with other military-oriented freshman Republicans. He raised $124,400 from political action committees and another $91,300 from individuals from January through the end of March. Heck also raised $6,639 through a joint fundraiser through the House Armed Services Committee. Heck received donations through the event from PACs including those for General Electric ($1,000); Accenture ($385); Rolls Royce ($1,000); the Parsons Corp. ($1,000). He also received donations through the event from McKeon ($1,000) and fellow lawmakers Mike Conaway, R-Texas, and Mike Coffman, R-Colo., who gave $1,000 apiece. [Las Vegas Review Journal, 4/18/11] Endorsed Romney for President In March 2011, Heck endorsed likely presidential candidate Mitt Romney. Romney campaigned for Heck in 2010. [Roll Call, 2/22/11] Practice of Sleeping in House Office Under Fire In February 2011, a probe into Congressman who sleep in their offices was started and Heck was a target. Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington was looking into whether it violated any house rules or tax benefit regulations. If the ethics committee rules that members can no longer sleep in their offices, then I won't, Heck said. I'll find a new place to sleep and come to work the next day still focused on creating jobs for Nevadans.
[Las Vegas Review-Journal, 2/11/11]

Other Social Issues

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Voted to Defund National Public Radio In March 2011, Heck voted to block federal funding to National Public Radio. The bill passed 228-192.
[Las Vegas Review-Journal, 3/20/11]

Potentially Failed to Check with Outgoing Congresswoman About Transfer of Constituent Case Files According to a 2011 story in the Las Vegas Sun, Hecks office they reached out to outgoing Representative Dina Titus office to get looped in on constituent case files shortly after Heck beat Titus in the November election. However, by December, Titus and her staff claimed that they had never been contacted by Hecks staff for anything other than queries about office space. [Las Vegas Sun, 1/18/11] NOTE: The Sun reported that constituent case portfolios are typically transferred up to the senator of the outgoing members party, which occurred in Titus situation.

Senior Issues
Claimed Seniors 55 and Older Wouldnt Experience Any Changes Under 2012 Republican Budget Plan

In 2011, Heck experienced a vocal crowd at a town hall. It was reported that he corrected audience members who claimed senior citizens would lose Medicare benefits under the Republican plan. He said those 55 and older wouldnt experience any changes whatsoever. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 5/19/11] Said 2012 Republican Budget Provided Reasonable Reform to Protect Seniors Heck said we dont accept the premise of health care exchanges. Heidi Harris said she was worried that health care insurers would go bankrupt. Heck said the reform was a reasonable way to protect seniors. Heck said doctors were starting to stop taking Medicare reimbursements and it took forever to get reimbursements. [Heidi Harris, KDWN 720 AM, Summary, 4/28/11]

Security Issues
Opposed Homeland Security Grant Cuts to Most Threatened Cities

In 2011, Heck joined the Nevada delegation in opposition to Homeland Security grant cuts to most threatened cities. According to the Department of Homeland Security we have 221 elements of critical infrastructure and key resources, Including the Hoover Dam and the new dam bypass bridge the second highest in bridge in the United States and the world-famous Las Vegas Strip, Heck said. The Las Vegas area is also home to 17 of the worlds 20 largest hotels, with almost 149,000 hotel rooms. Heck proposed a separate amendment that would have expanded eligibility to 25 cities, but it was killed by voice vote after little discussion. A spokesman said Heck agreed not to push for a full debate and recorded vote after he learned that Clarke was gathering backing for the broader amendment. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 6/2/11]

35

Said He was Working to Maintain Local and National Security Hecks prepared remarks to the legislature read As a member of the House Armed Services Committee and a member of the House Intelligence Committee, I am working to make sure our local and national security is maintained, and that our military men and women have the tools they need to get the job done. [Las Vegas TSG Business News, remarks as prepared, assessed 4/28/11]

Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid

Said He Would Like to See Senate Act on Republican Budget
In 2011, on Face to Face Jon Ralston asked Heck about the Republican budget plan. Heck said You know, I would like to see the Senate take some action because, I think as of today its 750 days since the Senate has passed a budget. So why not put a different proposal? If youve got a better answer, put it out there. We have yet to see anything come from across the campus. [Face to Face with Jon Ralston, Block 3, 5/19/11]

Claimed Republican Budget Would Not Affect Anyone 55 or Older

In 2011, on Face to Face Jon Ralston asked Heck about the Republican budget. He said, Newt Gingrich, he says youre not allowed to use this quote now because hes changed his position since then, but last week on Meet the Press called it right-wing social engineering, do you agree with that? Heck said Medicare is just one of the issues contained within that budget package, and of course, that was the area that brought up the most concern last evening, and you know I was surprised at how many seniors were present that thought this was still going to affect them not realizing that this does nothing to anybody who is 55 or more. If youre 55 or older you will see no change to the current Medicare system. Yet theyre all still clamoring about what it is going to do to Medicare. [Face to Face with Jon Ralston, Block 2, 3:57, 5/19/11]

Said Republican Budget was Not a Voucher System; Claimed Seniors Would Receive Same Amount of Benefits
In 2011, on Face to Face Jon Ralston asked Heck about the Republican budget. He said, You know, its interesting because even you dont seem that enthusiastic about it at the time. Revamped Medicare, and people know, it turns into a voucher-like program, I know you dont like calling it vouchers, and it has these tax breaks in there. Let me show you what you said about it at the town hall meeting, I referred to earlier, last night: Im not saying its the best idea, but its the only one and the best being proposed now, Heck said, emphasizing that the government needs to cut back spending to reasonable, sustainable levels. [Las Vegas Review-Journal]. Ralston went on to say, Seniors are scared. And almost seniors are scared. This is going to take away guarantee that has existed since when, 1965, and youre willing to do that?

Heck replied Its not taking away any guarantee John. What its doing is saying look, were going to give you premium support, its not a voucher. Youll be able to pick a plan that is going to have to have a guaranteed issue, there is no pre-existing condition exclusions. You will get the same amount that, on average every Medicare beneficiary receives now. Itll be indexed for inflation. And in addition, the poorer and the sicker get additional support. Very low income seniors will get a funded health savings account for further assistance in out-of-pocket expenses. [Face to Face with Jon Ralston, Block 3, 5/19/11] Claimed the Republican Budget Took Away Tax Loopholes
In 2011, on Face to Face Jon Ralston asked Heck about tax breaks in the Republican budget. He asked What about the tax breaks in there? Because thats what you were talking about at thatI mean obviously thats going to be unpopular with a lot of peopleas is changing Medicare because people are viscerally afraid. Heck said You know, you hear it from both sides. You hear the left saying weve got to take away the deductions, the subsidies, and the loopholes. Great. Well, in the budget, it

36

does that. It lowers the tax rate, it broadens the base, and it takes away the deductions, the loopholes, and the subsidies so that folks are paying a fair share of tax. I dont know why anybody would be opposed to lower rates, a broader base, and getting rid of the deductions, subsidies, and loopholes. [Face to Face with Jon Ralston, Block 3, 5/19/11]

On Republican Budget Heck Said, So In Essence This Is Going ToDoes It Fundamentally Change
Medicare? Yes, It Does.
In 2011, on Face to Face Jon Ralston asked Heck why he supported the Ryan Budget which put additional Medicare costs on seniors. Heck said, Its not putting it on Medicare recipients because, again, the Medicare recipient is going to continue to receive the same amount in premium support that already goes into Medicare on their behalf. And unlike Medicare now, if youre poorer or sicker, youll get additional support. If youre very low income, youll get even more support. So in essence this is going todoes it fundamentally change Medicare? Yes, it does. [Face to Face with Jon Ralston, Block 3, 5/19/11] After Calling Social Security a Pyramid Scheme Heck Claimed He Wanted to Protect the Program In 2011, Heck said it was a mistake to call Social Security a pyramid scheme that isnt working. In the video footage of Heck making the comment to constituents he didnt apologize for making the comment, despite audience disapproval. He claimed in a statement that he wanted to protect Social Security. [Associated Press, 6/3/11] Called Social Security a Pyramid Scheme at a Town Hall In 2011, at a town hall event, Heck said You know, when we talk about social security and the retirement age, for future generations, again were talking about if there are going to be changes, its not going to be the person who is 55 and now were going to say you have to work until 70, because people have made a lifes plan based on when they thought they would be collecting social security. Now, the kid who is 18 years old, should that kid have to work until age 70, I dont know but that could be a possibility to try and make this program work. He continued, Thats one of the reasons why this pyramid scheme isnt working [inaudible] thats why we have to look at every possible [inaudible]. [Politico, 6/3/11] Supported Privatizing Social Security When asked in an interview with Nevada News and Views How would you propose to reform the Social Security program?, Heck replied: I believe that any individual should have the right to voluntarily take their portion of Social Security withholding and invest it as they deem appropriate. [Nevada News and Views, 5/4/10] Claimed the Republican Budget Wouldnt Turn Medicare into a Voucher Program

In 2011, Heck wrote an op-ed claiming that the Republican budget did not affect Medicare for those 55 years and older or make Medicare a voucher system. He wrote, First, every person 55 years old, or older, is completely exempt from any changes to Medicare in this proposal. Second, changes in this proposal do not make Medicare a voucher system. In fact, they implement patient-centered solutions and make Medicare just like Medicare Part D, the only government health program ever to come in under budget. Third, even President Obama said Medicare will be bankrupt in 2029 if left unchanged from how it is today. That is just 18 years from now, and a bankrupt program cannot serve the taxpayers who paid into it. Fourth, the changes in this proposal provide greater benefits to individuals who are poorer and sicker, and fewer benefits to individuals who are richer and healthier. [Op-ed, Rep. Heck, Las Vegas Review-Journal,
5/15/11]

Hosted a Town Hall Meeting at an American Legion Post After He Called Social Security a Pyramid Scheme

37

In 2011, Heck hosted his first town hall with constituents in June at an American Legion post since he called Social Security a pyramid scheme. Heck focused on veterans issues. Heck made the Social Security comment at his last town hall in May. He was discussing the sustainability of continuing to pay benefits to people as they live longer. He did not apologize when the comment was met with disapproval from his audience in May. [RGJ, 6/08/11] Told 14 Year Air Force Veteran He Would Preserve Medicare and Social Security Benefits Question: I just want to know, where do you stand on protecting our benefits as far as social security, for those who will need it and those who are getting it now, and Medicare, sir? asked the veteran, who served 14 years in the Air Force. Hecks Lie: The fact is, Im committed to preserving both benefits, said the Nevada lawmaker. But for future generations, there may need to be changes for long-term sustainability. [Politics Blog, FOX, 6/9/11] On the Campaign Trail Heck Called Social Security a Sacred Trust; Now He Calls it a Pyramid Scheme
THEN. Heck calls Social Security a sacred trust [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 10/14/10] NOW. Heck calls Social Security a pyramid scheme [Editorial, Las Vegas Sun, 6/10/11]

On the Campaign Trail in 2010, Heck Pledged Protect Seniors Social Security and Medicare
Heck was asked, Are you for privatizing/phasing out Social Security and Medicare? Heck said, I am committed to making sure that our seniors have the benefits that theyre entitled to and that theyve earned, whether its Social Security or Medicare. I mean its ludicrous on its face to think that me, as a physician, would want to see Medicare dissolved.... He went on to say, Im saying for me to think that I would want to privatize or to dissolve Medicare just doesnt make sense as a physician. I mean, its critically important for seniors to have that coverage, to receive the health care that they receive once they reach the age of 65. [Face to Face with Jon Ralston, Part 2, 6/16/10]

In 2011 at a Town Hall Heck Called Social Security a Pyramid Scheme. At a town hall, Heck said, The kid whos 18 years old should that kid have to work to age 70? I dont know but that could be a possibility to try to make this program work. Because look Social Security started in 1935Full retirement age is 67 and the life span is 80. So when they first conceived Social Security they didnt think they were going to be paying benefits for 13, 15 years. Thats one of the reasons why this pyramid scheme isnt working. [Think Progress, 6/3/11] Headline: Heck Agrees with Caller who Describes Social Security as Pyramid Scheme
In 2011, Heck was asked by a caller on KXNT why more people werent talking about the fact that Social Security is a pyramid scheme. Heck replied Yeah, its a great question Robert and youre exactly right. You know back in 1955 there were nine people paying in for every person collecting. By 1975 that dropped down to three to one. Its projected that over the next 20 years it will be down to two to one. You know and its already said that Social Security is probably going to be insolvent in about 20 years. So we can wait until 20 years from now to take action, or we can take action now. And like you

38

Ive been paying into Social Security for almost 32 years and want to make sure that theres a benefit there when I retire. [Alan Stock, KXNT 840 AM, 6/7/11; Las Vegas Sun, 6/8/11]

Heck Supported Privatizing Social Security When asked in an interview with Nevada News and Views How would you propose to reform the Social Security program?, Heck replied: I believe that any individual should have the right to voluntarily take their portion of Social Security withholding and invest it as they deem appropriate. [Nevada News and
Views, 5/4/10]

Said Physicians Wouldnt Take Medicare Under Obamacare Heck was asked about Obamacare on the Heidi Harris. Heck said if youre discharged from the hospital and you have to be readmitted they are looking to decrease the readmittence rate. He said physicians and hospitals will stop participating in Medicare when Obama occurs in full force. They can lower their overhead by just taking cash. [Heidi Harris, KDWN 720 AM, Summary, 6/8/11] Hosted a Town Hall Meeting at an American Legion Post After He Called Social Security a Pyramid Scheme In 2011, Heck hosted his first town hall with constituents in June at an American Legion post since he called Social Security a pyramid scheme. Heck focused on veterans issues. Heck made the Social Security comment at his last town hall in May. He was discussing the sustainability of continuing to pay benefits to people as they live longer. He did not apologize when the comment was met with disapproval from his audience in May. [RGJ, 6/08/11] Criticized by Columnist for Calling Social Security a Pyramid Scheme When People Depended on Aid In 2011, a columnist wrote that Heck exposed his primitive feelings when he called Social Security a pyramid scheme. The columnist wrote that Heck admitted he made a poor choice of words and then failed to correct a caller who described Social Security as a pyramid scheme. The columnist wrote Social Security is easy to demagogue by those who dont rely on it for survival. For the millions of Americans, Democrats and Republicans alike, who depend on their monthly checks, its no Ponzi scheme. And its irresponsible for anyone to characterize it that way. The columnist continued Calling it a pyramid scheme gins up fears of falling skies and also makes Heck look like a pawn of his party at a time Republicans in safer congressional districts are calling for radical revisions to the federal budget. Those who drink Rep. Paul Ryans budget Kool-Aid do so at their own political perilUsing ill-advised hyperbole to describe Social Security might score points with his new friends in Washington, but it could ruin him back home. Heck threatens to be consumed by a fire he started and flames he fanned. [Columnist, John L. Smith, Las Vegas Review Journal, 6/12/11]

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Claimed He Meant to Call Social Security an Inverted Pyramid Not a Pyramid Scheme In 2011, Heck clarified his Social Security comments and changed pyramid scheme to inverted pyramid. He claimed that he wanted to create a visual that related to the decreasing ratio between people that paid into the system and the people who collected benefits. Obviously, the way the statement came out, was it a poor choice of words? Probably, he said. But everything I said around it was factual. Heck called Social Security a pyramid scheme during a May 2011 town hall while discussing the sustainability of continuing to pay benefits to people as they lived longer. The full retirement age is 67 and the lifespan is 80, so when they first conceived Social Security, they didnt think they were going to be paying benefits for 13-15 years, Heck said at the time. Thats one of the reasons why this pyramid scheme isnt working. [Associated Press, 6/9/11] When Radio Called Social Security a Pyramid Scheme and Heck Agreed Heck reopened the debate over whether he had called Social Security a pyramid scheme when he agreed during a local radio interview with a caller who insisted Social Security was a pyramid scheme. Heck claimed his comment that the caller was exactly right did not refer to the scheme comment. The Associated Press reported a review of the program shows listeners could interpret Hecks agreement with the caller as an obtuse validation of any of the commenters remarks. [Associated Press, 6/9/11] Heck Flip Flopped on Calling Social Security a Pyramid Scheme In 2011, Heck could not hold a firm position on his comment that Social security was a pyramid scheme. His name made headlines when he called a Social Security a pyramid scheme at a town hall. He retracted the statement and said he misspoke, and went so far as to distribute fliers explaining his nuanced apology. But Heck appeared on CBS Radios The Alan Stock Show, and told a caller who described Social Security as a pyramid scheme that he was exactly right. Then Heck again went on damage control claiming that his pyramid scheme comment was a poor choice of words. According to the Las Vegas Sun Heck did not directly correct the callers characterization of Social Security as a pyramid structure. [Las Vegas Sun, 6/8/11] Refuted that 2012 Republican Budget Would Turn Medicare into Voucher Program Heck said he fought in Washington, but there were certain things he couldnt get done. Heck was asked about his vote to change Medicare. He said the fact is there is no future in Medicare if we continue on the same path. So the proposed budget protects seniors, most seniors will not see changes. People 55 or older, the program will remain exactly the same. The program changes to a voucher program, but Medicare D. There is premium support, a subsidy goes directly to the insurer. It is a guaranteed issue. The amount of premium support will be the same and roughly what we pay for Medicare now. If you get sicker you get more premium support and there will be health savings accounts. We have to have generational change. For future generations we will say you get a patient centered plan. [Heidi Harris, KDWN 720 AM, Summary,
4/28/11]

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Said Certainly Some People Would Receive Less in Social Security and Medicare in Republican Budget Plan In 2011, Heck acknowledged complaints that the Republican budget would reduce Social Security and Medicare benefits. The Las Vegas Review-Journal reported Heck said Certainly some people would receive less in Social Security and Medicare. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 4/25/11] Joe Heck: I am Committed To Protecting Medicare; As a Physician, It Doesnt Make Sense To Privatize Medicare On June 16, 2010, Joe Heck was interviewed by John Ralston on Face to Face. During the program, Heck was asked if he is for privatizing or phasing out Social Security or Medicare. Heck responded: I am committed to making sure our seniors have the benefits they are entitled to and that theyve earned, whether its Social Security of Medicare. And its ludicrous on its face to think that me, as a physician, would want to see Medicare dissolved [] I am saying for me to think that we would want tothat I would want toprivatize or to dissolve Medicare just doesnt make sense as a physician. Its critically important for seniors to have that coverage, to receive the health care that they receive once they reach the age of 65. [Face to Face with Jon Ralston, 6/16/10 around seg. 2 @ 2:00]

Stem Cells Tax Issues

2012 Republican Budget Plan Proposed Tax Breaks For Wealthy Heck Said Im Not Saying its the Best Idea

In 201l, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported that the 2012 Republican budget plan proposes tax breaks for the wealthy. Heck said, Im not saying its the best idea, but its the only one and the best being proposed now. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 5/19/11]

Tea Party
Was in Lock Step with Tea Party on Issues Such as Republican Budget, Medicare and Oil Subsidies In 2011, the Las Vegas Sun wrote that Heck walked a tightrope when it came to the Tea Party. The Tea Party in Nevada said Heck had not left his roots. Although the paper pointed out that Heck did not picket for a government shutdown, he did serve the Tea Party agenda. But Democrats warn that appearances can be deceiving: Just because Heck doesnt proudly bear the Tea Party banner doesnt mean he isnt serving its agenda. The Tea Party took credit for Hecks victory. Hecks no liberal, and hasnt gone totally rogue on the GOP. When it comes to the big, national issues, like health care, Medicare, and oil subsidies, hes in lock step with the party and the Tea Party lineAdded Gabriela Domenzain, a spokeswoman for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee: Rep. Joe Hecks extreme positions to end Medicare and protect subsidies for Big Oil, privatize Social Security and abolish the Department of Education are

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out of touch with Nevadans. The Tea Party was with Heck on the Republican Ryan budget. [Las Vegas
Sun, 5/20/11]

Said He Felt No Pressure from Tea Party Heck was asked if he felt pressure from the tea party he said no. He said his district was the most populous district in the country. [Heidi Harris, KDWN 720 AM, Summary, 4/28/11]

Terrorism
Wanted Bin Laden Photos Released In May 2011, Heck was adamant about releasing photos of bin Laden post-mortem. The photos have to be released most definitely, to make sure we get rid of any conspiracy theorists that think we did not take care of bin Laden, he said. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 5/4/11]

Transportation Issues

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