Today I attended the Conservative Bloggers’ Briefing at the Heritage Foundation to unveil policies that are important to me. They are collectively called the Middle Class Bill of Rights. I believe that it is time to recognize the hard-work and sacrifice that so many Americans endure in paying taxes, fighting for our country and contributing to the overall well-being of our society. The six pillars of the Middle Class Bill of Rights aim to:

• Bring down gas prices
• Bring down the cost of food
• Make paychecks go further
• More jobs and safer retirements
• Health care coverage for families
• Simple, honest and fair tax code

I intend to campaign intensely for the passing of this crucial bill so keep an eye out for more news and events on this topic.

Joining me at the Heritage Foundation today was John Fund, editor of the Wall Street Journal. John had an interesting take on the upcoming election based on his new book “Stealing Elections: How Voter Fraud Threatens Our Democracy.” You can read more about it on The Foundry – the Heritage Foundation Blog.

Also, in local news, Richmond-based Altria announced today its plans to acquire UST Inc., the top producer of smokeless tobacco and famous for its Skoal and Copenhagen brands. And for those of you in Northern VA, John McCain and Sarah Palin will be hosting a Road to Victory Rally in Fairfax tomorrow morning. If you are interested in seeing our next President and Vide-President in person, please check their website to RSVP.