Raised in the Washington, DC area you might think I would be a political junkie.
However, with the exception of a firm commitment to vote and an occasional peek at CSPAN, I steer clear of everything politics. It’s simply too divisive and bureaucratic for my taste.
My disdain for politics is matched by my passion for private equity, venture capital and angel investing. Access to funding plays a critical role in economic development, job growth and innovation. It’s what has made this country a global powerhouse.
These two worlds collided in September at an event hosted by ACG National Capital. I’ve been a member of this exceptional group for nearly 10 years and Strategic Communications Group (Strategic) produces and manages the organization’s well read and respected blog: Corporate Growth…Capital Style.
On September 21, ACG National Capital hosted George Allen, the Republican US Senate Candidate in the State of Virginia, at an executive networking event at the Ritz Carlton in Tysons Corner.
Allen shared his perspectives on US competitiveness, innovation, energy policy, social programs and the federal government’s role in our daily lives to a packed room of executive leaders, investors, bankers and corporate advisors.
Here is a selection of Allen’s most compelling comments:
“This organization (ACG National Capital) is why I am running for the US Senate. This group is about corporate growth and job growth. We need to remind the world that America is open business.”
“Energy is a good news story. If we unleashed America’s energy resources it would create hundreds of thousands of jobs, reduce the cost of energy, food and other commodities, and make our country more secure and competitive.”
“We need to make the US the world capital of innovation. We need more scientists, engineers and technologists. Education funding is critical. Immigration needs to attract the brightest minds.”
“Sequestration is stunningly irresponsible. Leadership has to make tough decisions based on priorities; not use the military as a bargain chip to push through an agenda to increase taxes.”
“There needs to be a pay check penalty in Congress. If they don’t get budget bills completed on time, then they do not get paid.”
“The most important social program of all is a job.”