Press Releases

Pompeo Demonstrates Leadership During Debate

WICHITA, KS – Mike Pompeo’s leadership and comprehensive understanding of the core issues facing the country were showcased tonight as the five Republican candidates for the 4^th Kansas Congressional District gathered for a candidate forum

"My father taught me that the first thing you do when you are stuck in a hole is to quit digging," Pompeo said. "I want to go to Washington and throw away all the shovels."

Before a predominantly pro-Pompeo crowd of over 500 people, questions addressed a variety of topics including the global war on terror, the war in Afghanistan and the state of the U.S. economy.

Strongly advocating that less government control is the way to improve the economy, Pompeo said "The Federal government can’t create jobs, and don’t let anyone tell you that they can." He continued by saying, "Bailouts don’t save anything except the job of the CEO who messed up in the first place."

Pompeo also stressed the importance of reducing government intrusion when addressing the issue of jobs leaving Kansas and the U.S. for other countries. "It’s about competition. It’s about creating an environment where Kansans can compete."

Responding to a question about the current tax system, Pompeo said "Houston…Wichita…we’ve got a problem."

Specifically questioned about health care, Pompeo said that he had signed a national pledge to repeal any health care scheme similar to the one currently under consideration in Congress.

It was the first time all five Republican candidates had gathered together on the same stage to talk about the economic, domestic and international issues and problems currently facing Americans. The five candidates debated for more than 90 minutes on questions that were submitted by the public prior to the event.

Another candidate forum is scheduled for Friday, January 22nd in Belle Plaine in the high school auditorium. That debate will begin at 7:00p and it’s open to the public.