Ed has deep roots in the 7th Congressional District and has lived in Jefferson County his entire life. His grandfather and father ran a concrete business (in what is now the 7th District) for decades. Ed attended Jefferson County public schools and then worked construction with his father during the summers while in law school at the University of Colorado. He chose to raise his family in the district where his three daughters also attended Jefferson County Public Schools. Ed currently lives in Arvada with his wife Nancy, a public school teacher, who also has three children who attended Jeffco public schools.
Russia – In January 2017, the U.S. intelligence community confirmed the Russian government took steps to influence the 2016 U.S. presidential election. This action by a foreign nation is unprecedented and attempts to undermine the founding pillars of American democracy. Ed supports former FBI Director Robert Mueller's appointment as special counsel to investigate the full impact of Russia's influence in our election. Ed believes Americans deserve nothing less than an independent and thorough investigation.
ISIS - ISIS is a serious threat. The United States continues to take the fight to ISIS by destroying their capabilities and combating extremism abroad. We have the most robust and capable counterterrorism capabilities in the world and are working with our international allies to disrupt terrorist cells abroad and at home. Whether it is screening refugees, sustaining airstrikes in Iraq and Syria, utilizing U.S. Special Forces or cutting off revenue streams, the U.S. is working hard to degrade and destroy ISIS capabilities.
North Korea – Ed has serious concerns about escalating tensions with North Korea. North Korea's recent missile launches and nuclear tests pose a direct threat to our national and global security. The international community must be united in its approach in dealing with North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile program. Ed believes we need to enhance U.S. diplomatic efforts throughout East Asia by empowering the State Department to work with our partners in the region and throughout the world.
Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) – Ed supports the Iran Nuclear Nonproliferation Agreement negotiated by the United States, Germany, China, United Kingdom, France, Russia, the European Union, and Iran. The U.S. and its international partners have committed to a diplomatic solution that reduces and limits Iran’s ability to develop or manufacture nuclear weapons and is in America’s best interests. This Agreement has reduced nuclear tensions in the Middle East and made our friend and ally, Israel, safer and less prone to nuclear conflict with Iran. The International Atomic Energy Agency has confirmed Iran is complying with the terms of the JCPOA. Ed will continue to support this deal and will not support any legislation that could terminate the agreement.
Israel – Ed has always advocated for a strong U.S.-Israeli relationship and has supported full aid to Israel. Congress has taken measures to strengthen Israel's security from hostile regional players and provides Israel with annual FMF grants which represent about 21% of their annual defense budget. Ed has also long advocated for a two-state solution and for Israel and Palestine to co-exist peacefully. He believes the best way to advance a two-state solution is through direct, bilateral negotiations requiring willing partners on both sides.
Cuba Relations – Ed joined President Obama on his historic trip to Cuba in March of 2016 – the first visit by a sitting President in 88 years. Ed saw firsthand how Cuban citizens want to normalize relations with the U.S. As a relic of the Cold War, Ed continues to support lifting the trade embargo to begin the process of building trust and openness among our two countries because the current policy is outdated.