Oct. 6--VIRGIL GOODE (Republican)

Q.What is the first, best thing a Congress member can do about high gas prices?

Congress should focus on weaning the United States from foreign fossil fuels. We cannot allow foreign countries to control our fuel supply. In my opinion, the United States should be drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and the Outer Continental Shelf. We should also be focusing on alternative fuel sources. I am supportive of bio-fuels made from switch grass, miscanthus or hybrid poplar trees. I had the opportunity to drive an electric and a fuel-cell vehicle. I would like to see the cost of these types of vehicles come down and fuel sources more readily available so that more citizens can take advantage of those technologies. I voted for tax incentives for persons who purchase hybrid vehicles.

Q.If the United States had an energy policy, what are the first three issues it should address?

Energy policies of the United States should focus on cutting the cost of gasoline and diesel fuel. First, the United States should focus on drilling in ANWR, in the Outer Continental Shelf and across our country. Second, the United States should develop alternative energy sources. I am pleased to have sponsored legislation that has brought millions to the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research in Southern Virginia for a project that includes deriving bio-fuel from switch grass, miscanthus and hybrid poplars. The results of this program could significantly enhance agriculture and forest products throughout the Fifth District of Virginia. Third, we must support tax credits for solar, wind and other renewable energy sources.

Q.What can, or should, Congress do about illegal immigration?

Illegal immigration must stop. Our borders must be secure. I have supported and cosponsored legislation to stop illegal aliens, terrorists, drug smugglers and other criminals from coming across our southern border. We need to utilize troops, fences, and other measures to stop the invasion from Mexico. I was the first to sponsor legislation providing for a fence along the southern border. Although fence legislation has now passed, we must continue the fight for funding and the continual construction of the fence. Illegal immigration costs the United States billions every year through increased health care costs, social service utilizations, emergency room fees, and in other areas. I am against allowing illegal immigrants having services meant for Americans. Amnesty encourages more illegal entry into America.

Q. How should the U.S. deal with the expected growth in demand for electric power?

A.The United States needs to work with existing electric and utility companies and cooperatives to ensure that they continue to have the ability to cover our electric energy needs. They should be encouraged to utilize renewable energy sources but they shouldn't be places at a competitive disadvantage by forcing unreasonable and unattainable government standards upon them that would greatly increase electric bills of citizens across America. We must continue our efforts to make coal usage cleaner and to allow more hydropower and nuclear power when it can be done safely and compatible with the environment.

Q. Do you see an expanding role for nuclear power plants, and if so, what risks should be guarded against?

A.I do see an expanding role for nuclear power in the United States. We must address the disposal of nuclear waste issues. I believe such can be done and that any safety concerns can be addressed. Nuclear power can be cheaper and would be part of the solution to our dependence on foreign fuel.

Q.What can, or should, Congress do about the kind of investment practices that led to the current housing crisis?

A.Congress needs to rethink encouraging persons who have little chance of repaying loans for homes to get them. Those who made false statements and encouraged persons who likely could not repay these loans should be investigated and pursued.

Q.What, if anything, needs to be done about Social Security?

A. I want Social Security preserved and protected for our seniors and disabled. We need legislation that I have supported to place Social Security funds in a lock-box. An immediate concern for Social Security should be the proposed Social Security Totalization Agreement between the United States and Mexico. Those who truly want to protect the Social Security Trust Fund need to exclaim a resounding "no" to the proposed Totalization Agreement with Mexico. Estimates vary, but the Totalization Agreement with Mexico will cost the Social Security Trust Fund billions, not millions. My resolution blocking this agreement needs to be adopted.

Q. What changes should be made in the U.S. health care system, and does Congress have the ability and political will to make them?

A.I support increased funding for research aimed at combating and curing illnesses such as diabetes, lupus, cancer, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, ALS, MS and heart disease.