Mark Takai on Homeland Security

Tax credits for companies that hire veterans

I created the Hawaii Medal of Honor and established a task force to help non-profit providers get homeless vets off the streets--building a network of care to help these vets.

I helped create the Veterans Court, which focuses exclusively on vets by bringing together state social services and the VA to help these vets adjust back into society and navigate the courts.

Our vets went to bat for us; let's go to bat for them. They are our new "greatest generation," so let's give them a chance to build our future. I also think it is wrong that some in Congress have proposed cutting critical services like assistance to homeless vets, suicide prevention programs and job training assistance.

Cut defense responsibly, not across-the-board

I will work with both sides of the aisle to develop a sensible plan to balance the budget. I will work to protect those in our society who are most vulnerable.

We must make responsible, reasonable cuts to defense spending like unchecked defense contracts for weapons and other equipment the military does not need. As a member of the military, I have the first-hand knowledge needed to ask the right questions and push for better oversight of waste in runaway military contracts, while still protecting our military men and women and making sure they are well equipped and supported.