To support the highest number of good jobs for our district and our state, I have led initiatives to help our largest job creators like Alabama Power, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, International Paper, Westrock and the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) grow, thrive and expand.

I have used my position on the Ways and Means Committee to drive new economic development in underserved parts of our district with tax incentives, smart federal investments, favorable trade policies and small business support. Since I was first elected, I have helped cut the average unemployment rate in Alabama’s 7^th District by more than half, from 13.9% in 2011 to 6.6% in 2017.

It is essential that we begin preparing our workforce for the jobs of tomorrow. I have led efforts on rural broadband investment and measures to encourage greater private investment in apprenticeships and our workforce development pipeline.

I will continue to work to expand technology deployment to close the digital divide in our rural areas and increase investment in workforce development so Alabamians will be prepared to take advantage of new economic opportunities.