The bailout bill does not address the fundamental root causes of the economic crisis or the concerns I have consistently expressed. After assisting hundreds of Tampa Bay area families at my foreclosure workshops this summer, I could not in good conscience vote for a $700 billion Wall Street bailout that does not help middle-class families. They need mandatory “workout” provisions that require refinancing so they can achieve a little breathing room, keep paying mortgages and remain in their homes. Keeping families in their homes in our community means that our neighborhoods will not deteriorate and our property values will not fall. Read more »

After thoughtful consideration and review, I voted against President Bush’s $700 billion bailout. The Bush plan does not provide sufficient help to middle-class families in the housing squeeze or taxpayer protections. I assisted hundreds of Tampa Bay families at my foreclosure workshops this summer and I understand the need for direct, immediate action. The Bush plan failed to provide such action. I will work to ensure that this freewheeling deregulation that has brought our great country to this serious day does not happen again. I strongly support the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee investigations which begin this week, and will push for accountability for those responsible for the damage to our communities. Congress should go back to the drawing board as soon as possible this week to tackle the issue. Read more »