We all know someone out of work.  Unemployment has been stuck above 9 percent for too long and small businesses are struggling to stay afloat.  That’s why job creation must be Washington’s number one priority.

I’ve always said that it’s not government that creates jobs – it’s the private sector.  But Washington has to reduce the uncertainty that is standing in the way of small business growth.

My Jobs Plan is straightforward.

First, Washington has to get out of the way.  We have to cut the red tape and eliminate the unnecessary regulations and mandates that are strangling businesses.

Second, we must pass the pending free trade agreements that will lower foreign barriers to our U.S.-made exports and create hundreds of thousands of jobs right here at home.

Third, we can reduce the tax burden on our job creators and simplify the tax code so businesses can stay competitive and begin hiring again.

Finally, we can restore private-sector confidence in our economy by paying down our debt and forcing Washington to live within its means.

Rest assured that I’ll continue to fight against taxpayer-funded stimulus plans that have a failed track record of long-term job creation.  Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy.  I’m committed to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to create an economic climate where our small businesses can succeed and get people back to work.