On the Issues

Chris believes that the challenge of our time is building a strong economy with more shared prosperity. That conviction is behind so many of the big fights he’s waged and won on behalf of everyday people, and it’s what will drive his priorities as our next U.S. Senator. Chris is leading the charge for equal pay for equal work, fighting to hold Wall Street accountable, and working to level the playing field so all Marylanders can succeed, not just the wealthy few. Chris’s fight is for every citizen who’s working harder than ever but still feeling stuck in place.

Chris Van Hollen has always understood that there’s nothing more essential for our future success — as individuals, as families, and as a nation — than investing in a quality education for every child. For Chris, that’s the foundation of ensuring more and better economic opportunities, and it’s why he fights to expand educational opportunities from pre-K through affordable college and job training. As Maryland’s next U.S. Senator, that commitment to education will be unwavering.

Powerful special interests are standing in the way of proven policies to reduce gun violence in our country. But that has not stopped Chris before. Chris is committed to keeping up the fight to enact common sense measures to end the epidemic of gun violence until we prevail.

Chris believes that one of the most fundamental responsibilities of government is to promote access to affordable health care. Chris played a pivotal role in the passage of the Affordable Care Act and is continuing the fight to end health disparities that mostly impact women and minorities. He has been recognized for his leadership in this area by numerous state and national civic and health advocacy organizations.

Chris believes deeply in the promises we make to those who have earned the dignity of a secure retirement after paying into Medicare and Social security all their working lives. He has been a leader in protecting and strengthening benefits for seniors and he’ll never back down from that fight.

A grateful nation must support those who are willing to risk their lives for our safety and freedom. Chris honors those who serve by working hard to provide them with quality health care, education benefits, affordable housing, and opportunities to start businesses.

Protecting the environment is not just about the future of our planet — it’s about jobs today and tomorrow, and the quality of life for all Marylanders and Americans. As our Senator, Chris will continue to be a leading force working to protect the Chesapeake Bay, address climate change and preserve our air, land, and water resources.

Chris believes that the rules of our election system must empower voters over special interests and large money donors. For that reason, Chris has worked tirelessly to lift the toxic cloud of secret special interest spending that has flooded our election process and weakens our democracy.

Chris’s leadership on some of the biggest issues of our time — whether it’s protecting voting rights, advancing civil rights, reforming our criminal justice system, or fighting for gender and LGBT equality — stems from a deeply held belief in the values of equal rights and equal justice for all Americans.

From his first days in the Maryland legislature to his current time in Congress, Chris Van Hollen has been a recognized champion on issues vital for women and families.

America is a nation of immigrants, from our founding to today. Chris believes that enabling immigrants to become a strong and vital part of our country is not just consistent with our values, but is a proven path to strengthening our economic future.

Chris Van Hollen believes that America must continue to play its unique leadership role around the world and promote human rights, democracy and the rule of law. He believes that we can protect and promote our vital interests through a combination of a strong defense, smart diplomacy, and strategic international development programs.