“Though my district is diverse in demographics and landscape, I believe that all of my constituents from Pontiac to Eldorado have common interests,” said Johnson.  “We want to see job growth, a flourishing ag economy, quality and affordable education for our children from Kindergarten through college, and a health-care system that an average, working salary can afford.”

 Rep. Johnson listed five broad legislative initiatives on which he will focus during the 108th Congress: 

1. Job Creation/Economic Development – This is achieved by creative entrepreneurs, public and private partnerships, bipartisan and intergovernmental collaborations, and most importantly consumers who are not overtaxed.  Much of the 15th District is experiencing economic hardships and in recent years we have seen numerous employers close their doors.  At the federal level, we have the ability to cut taxes and promote increased consumer spending.  At the same time, we can ease the burdens that the government has placed on small business and industry.  It is critical that with every legislative move we make, we take into account the economic challenges that exist in Illinois and other places around the country.
2. Education – Making federal dollars available to local school districts, without strings attached, is the backbone of President Bush’s bipartisan bill, No Child Left Behind. It also puts in place a system of accountability, which enables students to learn in an environment where administrators, faculty and staff are driven toward excellence.  Community colleges and four-year universities must continue to receive the federal help that enables them to grow and prosper.
3. Federal Farm Policy – With a new farm bill in place, we must continue to refine the programs so they are helpful and friendly to our American producers.  At the same time, we will push for expansion of biofuels markets and promote U.S.- grown products worldwide.
4. Prescription Medication – In coming months, we must create a plan that will allow seniors and hard-working American families alike to buy necessary and sometimes life-saving prescription medication without sacrificing their entire checking accounts.  It is not acceptable to allow drug companies to post record profits at the expense of ailing Americans.  I believe we can create this program under Medicare.
5. Constituent Service – The unwelcome issues that people encounter everyday, like an IRS underpayment, a late check for a student’s financial aid, or a crumbling overpass in Anytown, IL are extremely important to me as I strive to be a responsible public servant.  I maintain several district offices, I coordinate a mobile office program and I have staff members experienced in constituent casework.  It remains a top priority to me that I respond to my constituents in a timely and effective manner.

“I look forward to continuing my service to Illinois’ 15th District,” added Johnson.  “The people in Illinois have given me a big job to do in Washington, and I intend to deliver results to the best of my ability.  I look forward to visiting with my constituents over the next two years.