Americans are struggling with a slowing economy, a housing market in crisis, and energy prices at all-time highs. We need a national economic policy that will re-energize our economy and create jobs. We need a tax policy aimed at providing relief to working families who need it, opportunities for business development and growth, and support for innovation, research and development.

Leading economic indicators and experts are predicting a continued downturn, or possibly even recession. Washington must be ready to move aggressively to bolster the economy and help working families. Any stimulus package considered should be timely, temporary and targeted.

I would have voted for the economic stimulus package presented in the Senate. I believe getting money in the hands of Nebraskans who will spend it can have a positive short-term effect on the economy. However, our long-term focus must be on creating jobs by investing in business and infrastructure, providing solutions to stabilize the housing market and increasing aid to states.

Over the years I have had the opportunity to work with both Republican and Democratic governors to create jobs and stimulate Nebraska’s economy. In order to fix our nation’s economic problems, we need leaders who are able to work together to find solutions. These issues are far too important to be caught up in partisan bickering. Everyone needs to come to the table, willing to give and take, and work on real solutions to these challenges.

Read Tony's plan to stimulate the economy.