5 Things That Most Concern Congressman McGovern

US Congressman James P. "Jim" McGovern currently represents the 3rd Congressional District, but is campaigning for the 2nd Congressional District due to redistricting.

If he should win, McGovern will add Northborough; retain Shrewsbury, Westborough, and Grafton; and lose Marlborough, Holliston and Hopkinton.

Congressman McGovern shared with Patch the "five things that concern him the most," politically speaking. 

1. Jobs: We need to continue to build on our strengths in Massachusetts, work to grow small businesses, and pursue long-term job growth in the innovation-economy. 

2. : Enough is enough. The US has spent hundreds of billions of dollars on military operations in Afghanistan, and over 5,500 Americans were wounded or killed in Afghanistan last year alone. Like the majority of Americans, I want a safe and orderly withdrawal from Afghanistan as quickly as possible, in a manner that generates confidence in what the next day will bring for Afghanistan and the region.

3. : Currently, commuters who drive to work and park are eligible for up to $240 in pre-tax benefits per month from their employer while commuters who take mass transit such as commuter rail, subways, buses or vanpools are only eligible for up to $125 a month. At a time of high gas prices and when many families are still struggling financially from the recession, it makes no sense to penalize commuters who utilize mass transit.

4. Preventing student loan rates from doubling: Obtaining a college degree is one of the most important accomplishments needed to secure a well-paying and high-skill job in the increasingly global marketplace. The notion that Congress would allow interest rates on Stafford loans to double is unconscionable.

5.  Healthcare: We must continue to improve our nation’s healthcare system, including finding ways to substantially reduce the cost of care, while increasing access to affordable care for families and small businesses.