Issues
Afghanistan
David believes that it is time to bring our troops home and that we must end our involvement in Afghanistan as expeditiously and responsibly as possible. The United States should reduce its troop level with a smaller footprint and a more effective and strategic counterinsurgency to combat al Qaeda and the Taliban. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the Afghan people to build and strengthen their civil institutions and military capacity, and this responsibility cannot be sustained by the United States indefinitely.
While engaged in combat, rules of engagement must be developed that put the well-being of our servicemen first.
Education
Every child has the right to a high-quality, public education. Access to good education is the single most effective way to give our young people the opportunity to realize the their full potential and to become fully contributing members of society. David believes strongly that we must do everything possible to provide students with strong public schools that prepare them to begin a career or to pursue higher education.
Energy
David believes we must address the ongoing energy and climate crises by ending our reliance on fossil fuels and developing new, alternative sources of energy at home – including wind, solar, and geothermal energy.
Ethics
Public service is both a great honor and a serious responsibility. Those who work in government have a duty to uphold the highest ethical standards and keep our political systems transparent, accountable, and honest. David will work to limit the influence of money and special interests on politics, elections, and the legislative process in order to guarantee that good decisions are made that advance the public interest.
Financial Services Regulatory Reform
David supports the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and will work for greater oversight of the financial services sector and stronger protections for consumers.
Health Care
David supports the historic health care reform legislation passed by the Congress and signed by the President. He believes strongly that every American should have access to quality, affordable health care. As the new health care bill is implemented, David believes we must ensure that it is working for Rhode Island families.
Homeland Security
Our government has no more basic responsibility than to provide for the safety and security of our citizens. Americans must have complete confidence that all levels of government are working collaboratively to provide the highest level of security and protection. In eight years as Mayor, David has worked relentlessly to enhance Providence’s emergency management and homeland security capabilities, and he will bring this experience with him when he gets to Washington.
Immigration Reform
David believes that we must enact comprehensive immigration reform in this country. This reform must begin with securing our border and ensuring that those who are here without proper documentation be required to “go to the end of the line,” pay a penalty, pay their taxes, and pass criminal background checks before receiving citizenship.
Jobs and Economic Growth
Good jobs strengthen families, build strong neighborhoods, and help to promote safe communities and healthy living. David believes that job creation and lasting economic growth in Rhode Island will depend on investment in manufacturing, small businesses, and the establishment of a strong, capable workforce for the 21st century.
Read More...LGBT Rights
Discrimination of any kind against a person based on their sexual orientation is wrong and should be prohibited by law. David believes that all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation, are entitled to equal treatment under the law.
Read More...Mental Health
David Cicilline believes we must make comprehensive mental health services available and move forward with full mental health parity. David Cicilline has identified six major priorities for the federal government that will help to end the stigma associated with mental health treatment, improve delivery of services, and promote mental health wellness in America
Read More...Seniors
We must provide our nation’s seniors with access to quality health care, affordable prescription drugs, quality housing, and transportation services. David will fight for our seniors and work to provide these services and opportunities to fully engage in their communities.
Read More...US-Israel Relationship
In Congress, David will work to support the longstanding United States-Israeli relationship and understands that it is an important alliance for building lasting peace in the Middle East region.
Read More...Veterans
For all they have given to our country, we owe our veterans an enormous debt of gratitude. Veterans must have access to all the services and support they need for their well-being, including health care, housing, mental health services, employment and career counseling, as well as other comprehensive services. We must provide adequate funding to meet the needs of our veterans.
Read More...Womens' Rights
Women deserve equal pay for equal work, protection from violence, including family violence, and the right to full reproductive freedom. In Congress, David will fiercely protect a woman’s right to make health care decisions, free from government intrusion and interference.
Workers' Rights
Working men and women deserve the right to organize, bargain collectively, and demand a safe work environment from their employer. David believes we must advocate for fair wages and benefits, retirement security, and safe work conditions on behalf of working people. In Congress, David will fight hard to advance the well-being of working families in Rhode Island.