Danville, CA  – During the South San Joaquin Republicans CD-11 Congressional Candidate Forum on Monday, January 11th, in Manteca, Elizabeth Emken addressed negative impact to the economy from Democratic policies such as Cap and Trade and the recent stimulus packages.

"The Democrats believe that we can spend our way to prosperity. This is simply an unsound economic policy that the Democrats have been employing. We need to keep our federal agencies accountable - they should have goals and deliverables which they are reporting to Congress, and Congress should not be avoiding responsibility for this oversight as they have been under Nancy Pelosi and her follower Jerry McNerney.” said Emken. Ms. Emken detailed her background in economics and financial management, and her 13 years at IBM Corporation.

Elizabeth Emken is a first time candidate for political office, yet her policy and legislative experience far exceeds that of any other candidate in the race.
“I am experienced in Washington, but I am not a professional politician,” said Emken. “There is no one who will seek your vote here tonight that has participated in the passage of more legislation - that has helped more people - including the incumbent Congressman, than I have.”

As an advocate for autism research over the last decade, Ms. Emken has been instrumental in the passage of the Children’s Health Act of 2000, the Combating Autism Act of 2006, and numerous state insurance marketplace reform initiatives. These laws have radically transformed federal and state policy to confront the epidemic of autism, which now affects one percent of American children.

Elizabeth’s legislative track record for more than a decade demonstrates the kind of leadership we need in Washington. As a Congresswoman, Elizabeth will bring the perspective of an engaged citizen - not a professional politician - in championing causes which will improve the quality of life in the 11th District.