On January 5, 2011, John Hoeven was sworn in as North Dakota’s 22nd U.S. Senator, following ten years of service as the state’s governor.
Senator Hoeven’s priorities in the Senate include working to implement national policies similar to the ones driving North Dakota’s economic success. He is committed to creating a business climate that fosters job growth and robust economic activity. Equally important to the senator are measures to reduce the nation’s budget deficits and debt. He believes a commonsense approach that fosters free enterprise and empowers people to innovate and invest will strengthen our national economy and create jobs for our country in a sustainable, ongoing way.
Our country faces considerable health challenges. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) public health emergency has placed a significant burden on our health care system, and now more than ever, it is important to thank our nurses, doctors and health care professionals whose tireless work throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has helped save lives. In the Senate, I have worked to provide additional resources for the health and safety of our medical professionals, as well as for those who have been impacted by the pandemic. With my support, Congress passed several pieces of legislation to provide support for our nation to combat this public health emergency.
Also, we need to continue to work to improve access to quality, affordable health care. Unfortunately, health care costs have risen dramatically under Obamacare, with families facing increased premiums and higher deductibles, as well as limited health insurance options. We need patient-centered health care that provides individuals and families with greater choice and competition in order to lower costs. That includes policies to lower the cost of prescription drugs and ensuring coverage for those with pre-existing conditions.