It was a bit of a long shot, but I convinced them that more rural Americans and smaller metropolitan areas, in the context of the entire nation, needed a voice. I was fortunate and, I believe, Mississippi businesses and financial institutions will be well served by this appointment. Our businesses and financial institutions can anticipate a more focused look at financial concerns, especially with our economy in flux. Recently, I had lunch with a representative from the Bond Markets Association and shared with him some views I have concerning fair competition across the board between private businesses and government supported entities. You ve also mentioned that funding resources for affordable housing will be a priority along with rental vouchers, greater access to home-ownership, homelessness prevention, housing preservation and elderly housing.
Affordable housing is essential for our citizens, a strong business climate and our economy.
A home is part of the American dream and we have specific issues in Mississippi that I want to advance on the housing front. One of my goals is to meet regularly with Mississippi s financial and business community and advance their interests on the committee. We have strong financial institutions in Mississippi that can benefit from continued reform of international policy. Consumer protection and the privacy rights of all Mississippians and Americans must be a focus of this committee as well. And, new and stronger deductions for property and equipment must be passed to shore up the strength of our small businesses.