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SCOTT RIGELL (VA-02)

Top Headlines

• With $11 million in assets, Rigell is region's wealthiest congressman [Daily Press, 6/15/11]

Editorials

• Going overboard in quest for oil [Virginia Pilot, editorial, 5/10/11]

Budget Issues

Urged Colleagues To Give Up Their Retirement Pensions Until the Deficit is Reduced

In March 2011, Rigell sent a Dear Colleague letter to fellow Representatives, urging them to support TheLead By Example Act, which would prohibit Members of congress from receiving matched contributionsto their Thrift Savings Plans until Congress passes a concurrent budget resolution that reduces the deficitfrom the previous fiscal year. [Rigell Dear Colleague Letter, 3/15/11; Virginian-Pilot, 3/22/11]

Rigell Supported $100 Billion Dollar Budget Cuts

In July 2011, Rigell said that was studying the bill closely.

Rigell’s spokesman explained that he was "studying the Boehner bill really closely and is hopeful that hecan come to the decision that it does in fact, move us in the direction of a better fiscal path. He hasconsistently said that default is not an option. He has also said the nation's spending trajectory is not anoption."

According to the Daily Press, “Rep. Scott Rigell, R-Virginia Beach, was a proponent of the ‘Cut, Cap andBalance Act,’ but has said that defaulting on the nation's debt is not an option.” [Daily Press, 7/26/2011]

Rigell Supported Boehner Plan

In July 2011, Rigell announced that he would vote in favor of the Boehner bill."I've given this careful consideration, and I've decided this is what's best for our country," freshmen Rep.

Scott Rigell, Republican of Virginia, said. "I respect the process the leadership went through."[Washington Post. 7/28/2011]said, “We’re borrowing more than 40 percent of what we’re spending… to say that our spending is simplyunsustainable, that doesn’t quite capture in my mind the gravity of our situation. To meet the deepobligation that we have to pass on to the future generations the blessings of liberty and freedom, we mustact now and act decisively.” [Rigell Floor Remarks, 2/11/11]

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Claimed US Debt Could Hit $99 Trillion This Year

In June 2011, Rigell claimed that the US debt could hit as high as $99 trillion just this year.

Rigell was quoted as saying that "When $14.3 trillion is cited as the total of our national debt, that is only

taking into account one part of the equation. When the unfunded liabilities of mandatory entitlementspending are accounted for, the debt really added up to $75 trillion in 2010 and is on track to hit $99trillion this year."

But Politifact rebuked his statements, arguing that “his numbers are not based on actual totals of entitlement spending and the debt in any given year. His figures are based on pessimistic 75-year  projections of what it would cost to continue entitlement programs under present-day conditions. A lotcan change over 75 years.”

Politifact concluded by saying that “We rate his claim False.” [Politifact, 06/03/2011]

Not Afraid to Vote Against Leadership

In July 2011, Rigell said in an interview that "I've had no problem with voting against leadership."

Rigell also explained that "’I don't lose sleep over that, but as I look at where we are and the alternatives before us I think it's critical that we have given the president not one but two options,’ he said, referring to both the cut cap and balance measure and the debt-ceiling measure being rewritten by Boehner.” [Nasdaq,7/29/2011]

Said Tax Reform On Table Even After Deal

In July 2011, Rigell said that tax reform still needs to be worked on, even after a debt ceiling deal.

Riegll explained that “I'm a businessman. I'm a job creator, a first-time elected official, still own amedium-sized business in our district. So I think the key is that we can still continue to work on taxreform, even after this bill is passed.” [Bloomberg News, 7/30/2011]

Rigell Voted in Support of Boehner Budget Control Act

In July 2011, Rigell released a statement of his support for the Boehner Budget Control Act of 2011.

Rigell explained that “I cast my vote in support of the Budget Control Act of 2011 and was pleased withthe changes made to it. There has been spirited debate on this plan, and I started out the week undecided

on this bill.”

He continued by saying “I’ve been a business man all my life. And one thing I’ve learned is that the bestindicator of future performance is past performance…I have very little confidence that Congress or thePresident -- unless forced to send a Balanced Budget Amendment to the States -- will do what isnecessary to meet the obligation we have to the next generation of Americans.”

“Now some will argue this bill doesn’t cut spending enough. Frankly, I don’t disagree; we need to

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continue to press our colleagues in Washington to cut more federal spending.” [Rigell Press Release,

7/29/2011]

Voted in favor of final Budget Control Act of 2011

In August 2011, Rigell voted in favor of the final debt ceiling compromise.

Rigell explained that “As fellow Americans we face a debt of more than $14.5 trillion, which is a directresult of this city’s addiction to over-promising and over-spending. That debt, which increases byapproximately $4 billion per day, threatens the very fabric of our society. Because of my commitment to job creation and to bring fiscal discipline to Washington, I supported the Budget Control Act of 2011.This agreement provides a fundamental change of direction for Washington; for the second year in a row,we are decreasing discretionary spending […] This legislation requires that we cut spending more than weincrease the debt limit.” [Rigell Press Release, 8/1/11]

He continued, “Some express frustration at how long it took us to agree on a solution. I understand andshare that frustration! But given that we have moved this debate from how much we can spend to how

much we can cut, I believe the fight was worth it.” [Rigell Press Release, 8/1/11]

He concluded by saying that “As a businessman, I understand well the repercussions that America wouldinevitably face if we failed to meet our financial obligations. Rising interest rates because of our damagedcredit rating would hurt every family and make it even more difficult for our smaller business owners tocreate jobs.” [Rigell Press Release, 8/1/11]

Does Not Expect Debt Deal to Hurt Constituents

In August 2011, Rigell said that he didn’t expect his district to be harmed by the cuts.

Rigell explained that “I’m just convinced we can keep the American people safe and also set our countryon a better fiscal path…I believe that when you see the trends of where we’ve been and where we’regoing, that our region will navigate through this satisfactorily.” [Virginian-Pilot, 8/2/2011]

Rigell’s Response to President Obama’s Joint Address on Jobs

In September 2011, Rep. Rigell’s office issued the following response to President Obama’s joint addresson jobs

“I appreciate the President’s renewed focus on job creation. Far too many Americans are hurting becauseour economy is stagnant. Entrepreneurs are afraid to invest and grow jobs; those with a job are fearful of 

 being laid off; and those searching for jobs too often hear these words […] the President and I certainlyagree on this priority: creating job opportunities for our veterans.” [Rigell Press Release, 09/08/11].

Business and Consumer Issues

Voted Against Providing Competitive Grants To Small Businesses For Commercializing Research

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In 2011, Rigell voted in the Science, Space and Technology Committee against an amendment that wouldauthorize $538 million for fiscal 2012 for the National Institutes of Health to issue competitive grants tohelp small businesses commercialize the research they produced as a result of Phase II awards.

The amendment failed, 13-15, on a party line vote. [Tonko Amendment to HR 1425, 5/04/11]

Voted Against Extending Competitive Small Business R&D Grants Through 2016

In 2011, Rigell voted in the Science, Space and Technology Committee against an amendment that wouldextend the Small Business Innovation and Research (SBIR) and the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs through fiscal 2016. [Wu Amendment to HR 1425, 5/04/11]

The amendment failed, 8-15, on a party line vote. [Wu Amendment to HR 1425, 5/04/11]

Voted To Bar Foreign-Owned Companies From Participating in Small Business Grant Program

 

In 2011, Rigell voted in the Science, Space and Technology Committee for an amendment that would bar large and foreign-owned companies from participating in the SBIR and STTR programs.

The amendment failed, 10-19. [Tonko Amendment to HR 1425, 5/04/11]

Rigell A “No” Vote on Debt Ceiling

In May 2011, Scott Rigell voted against raising the debt ceiling saying that “We simply cannot afford acontinued reckless spending agenda with yet another blind increase in the debt limit.” [Scott Rigell Press

Release, 05/31/2011]

Defended Ryan Budget Plan

In May 2011, Rigell strongly defended all aspects of Paul Ryan’s budget plan. According to theChincoteague Beacon, Rigell said that “he has signed the "Path to Prosperity" plan as a part of controllingspending, saying the plan addresses in a responsible way some challenges including some entitlements ”and ensuring that “the plan changes ‘absolutely nothing’ for those age 55 or older and if 54 or younger changes would be in a ‘most graduated way’ to increase age of eligibility to 67.” [Chincoteague Beacon,

05/26/2011]

Rigell: Received 70% from Heritage Action for America

Based on 30 key votes from January-August 2011, Rigell received a 70% score from the Heritage Actionfor America. [Heritage Action for America, accessed 9/6/11]

Campaign Finance Issues

Rigell Sponsored Legislation to Eliminate Matching Contributions to TSP

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In March 2011, Rep. Scott Rigell “sponsored legislation that would prohibit members of Congress fromreceiving matching contributions to their Thrift Savings Plan accounts, a benefit also available to federalemployees, in the absence of a budget resolution that reduces the deficit from the previous year.”[Govexec.com, 8/24/2011]

Crime & Public Safety Issues

Defense Issues

Pledged to Push to Block Navy from Moving Carrier from Norfolk 

Rigell he would fight the Navy’s attempt to move carriers out of Norfolk. [Virginian Pilot, 2/01/11]

Suggested Troop Presence in Afghanistan Has Not Been “Necessary”

In June 2011, Rigell suggested Troop Presence in Afghanistan Has Not Been “Necessary.”

“We should, in the shortest time that we can reasonably and wisely do so, extricate ourselves from thatcountry [Afghanistan] and go into a different form—a different method—to disrupt and dismantle Al-Qaeda.” [CSPAN Washington Journal, 6/23/11]

“This larger effort [troops on the ground as opposed to long-range warfare] that we’re apart of I don’tthink is necessary. [… The armed services’ efforts have] not been in vain. We have been safe for almost10 years now from a terrorist attack. And we will not declare victory in the traditional sense [as inWWII].” [CSPAN Washington Journal, 6/23/11]

“I think this is unwise [excessive spending to build “good will” between the Afghan people and the US],

and I don’t think it’s necessary. To believe that we can change the hearts and minds of the Afghan people, an ancient society, is—it’s quite a stretch for me. I’m not sure it’s required to protect theAmerican people.” [CSPAN Washington Journal, 6/23/11]

Disagreed with Senator McCain’s Position on a more Cautious Withdrawal

In June 2011, Rigell responded to John McCain’s position statement, which explained that our position inAfghanistan is too tenuous and critical to “give up the fight and walk away.”

Rigell maintained, “I do hold a different view than the Senator and I’ve made my position clear on thatand I would go back again to what we do agree on—that Afghanistan cannot be a place where Al-Qaedacan plan and train for and execute a terrorist attack…. We need a lighter footprint in Afghanistan…andcontinuously disrupt Al-Qaeda and other trans-national terrorists.” [CSPAN Washington Journal, 6/23/11]

Economic and Financial Issues

Rigell Supported Virginia Beach Funding

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In May 2011, the US Government, with the help of Rigell, “announced that it would pay $9 million of the$14 million cost of building up the [Virginia] Beach.”

According to the Virginian-Pilot, “the federal government, facing astronomical deficits and criticism that

government should not be paying for such luxuries, said last year it would no longer be in the beachwidening business.” But the Virginian-Pilot reports that “Rep. Scott Rigell, a freshman congressman fromVirginia Beach elected on his pledge to cut federal spending, worked to find the money for his district.”[The Virginian-Pilot, 05/29/2011]

Rigell Defended Vote Against Bill To Stop Government Shutdown

In April 2011, Rigell defended his vote to shutdown the government by saying that the deal cut did notadequately address the nation’s financial problems.

According to the Virginian-Pilot, “Rigell said Monday that the severity of the nation's large federal deficitoutweighs his desire to keep funding the government. The measure approved Friday and a companion bill being discussed this week to make cuts in federal spending don't go far enough, he said.”

Rigell said that the deficit "threatens the foundation of our country…I have a deep resolve that it needs to be addressed now. It needs to be this Congress, this year." [Virginian-Pilot, 04/18/2011]

Wanted Cuts Immediately, Not Down the Road

In July 2011, Rigell said that he would be looking for cuts to 2012 since he did not believe that Congresscan be trusted to implement them in the future.

“Rigell said that he will be looking closely at the level of discretionary cuts for 2012 since he does nottrust promises that more cuts will be made down the road. He signaled that he would be open to onlyrequiring a vote on a balanced-budget amendment rather than full passage.” [The Hill, 7/26/2011]

Rigell: On Congressional Perks and Privileges

In November 2010, Rep. Rigell discussed the 10 point proposal to limiting Congressional perks.

According to the Virginian Pilot, “Rigell rolled out a 10-point proposal for scaling back congressional perks and privileges and vowed to adhere to it himself regardless of whether it becomes law. Rigellacknowledged his proposals won't make steep cuts in federal spending but argued they would signal to the public that lawmakers want to set a good example .Congress has developed ‘a culture of privilege, a

culture of unaccountability.’” [Virginian Pilot, 11/4/2010]

Rigell: Long Term Debt a Greater Concern Than $600 Billion in Defense Cuts

In September 2011, Rep. Rigell discussed the his concern over the nation’s debt.

Business Week reported, “Nearly half of the economy in the coastal region known as Hampton Roads,which spans the state’s southeast, is generated by military bases and contracts, making it vulnerable

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should the stalemate in Congress prevail. Nevertheless, Rigell, […]said the threat of a national fiscal crisisfrom the spiraling debt was a greater concern. ‘It’s putting the foundation of our country at risk,’ he said.‘If each and every person brings to Washington a parochial mindset that never, never in my district shouldwe experience any pain, then we’re in for a very difficult time.’ [Business Week, 9/19/11]

Rigell: Oil Subsidies on the Table

In August 2011, Rep. Rigell commented about oil subsidies being cut.

The New York Times reported, “Mr. Rigell – who invited the other three House members for his meeting,which was focused on health care because they are medical doctors – said that he thought at least a fewforms of tax subsidies provided to oil companies should be on the table. Government should not subsidizeone industry over another, Mr. Rigell said.” [New York Times, 8/9/11]

Rigell: “We Are Using a Tone That is Far Less Harsh” and “Rely Upon Facts”

In August 2011, Rep. Rigell held a town hall chat forum.

The Daily Press reported, “John Fredericks asked Rep. Rigell, ‘Do you support repealing Obama - Care,Dodd-Frank, and Sarbanes-Oxley?’ Rigell replied, ‘I was sent to Congress in part to change the culture,and I believe in our own office that we are serving in a way that would lead to a more effective Congress.We are using a tone that is far less harsh; we search out – and rely upon – facts to guide our decisions; andI have been deliberate in not questioning the motives of those who disagree with me.  The answer is: yes,with the goal of replacing each with lighter, smarter regulations that protect consumers and would lead toa stronger, healthier economy and increased job opportunities.’” [Daily Press, 8/12/11]

Rigell Agrees with Obama on Creating Job Opportunities for Veterans

In September 2011, Rigell said he agrees with Obama on creating job opportunities for veterans.

"I look forward to studying the specific legislation the President referred to tonight. I will look for areas of agreement – those proposals that I know from my more than 25 years of entrepreneurial experience willcreate the right environment for our small business owners to again want to start a business or grow anexisting business. The President and I certainly agree on this priority: creating job opportunities for our veterans.” [Rigell Press Release, 9/8/11]

Claimed that Reducing Federal Spending is in and of Itself an Act of Job Creation

In June 2011, Rigell claimed that reducing federal spending in itself an act of job creation.

“I truly believe that reducing federal spending is in and of itself an act of job creation. […] I know as an

entrpreneur that these [jobs] bills [originating in the House and awaiting action from the Senate] wouldmove America forward.” [CSPAN Washington Journal, , 6/23/11]

Education Issues

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Energy Issues

Co-Sponsored Legislation to End Federal Moratorium on Off-Shore Drilling

In March 2011, Rigell co-sponsored a bill that would end the federal moratorium on off-shore drilling

along much of the East Coast including federal waters off Virginia’s coast. [Virginian-Pilot, 3/30/11]

Rigell Expressed Support for Off Shore Drilling in VA

According to the Virginia Pilot, “both U.S. Reps. Scott Rigell and Rob Wittman - who representVirginia's coast - have joined a push by a Washington state congressman to open Virginia's ocean to oilcompanies.” [Virginia Pilot, 4/20/11]

Environmental Issues

Environmentalists Criticized Rigell’s Vote to Cut EPA Budget

In 2011, Rigell faced criticism for supporting funding cuts to the EPA as well as funds to restore theChesapeake Bay. Rigell, who represents the Virginia Beach area, has faced criticism from The NaturalResource Defense Council as well as Chesapeake Bay Boosters.

The Natural Resource Defense Council released a poll showing that “66 percent of Rigell’s constituentsopposed the vote” to cut EPA funding. [Daily Press, 02/28/11]

Suggested that We Open Up American Lands for harvesting Natural Resources

In June 2011, Rigell suggested that we “harvest the natural resources that we have in America.”

“We want to open up in … an environmentally responsible way the natural resources—to harvest thenatural resources that we have here in America. $500 billion a year is flowing outside of our country toother countries that don’t, oftentimes, share our values. And I connect the dots: some of that $500 billiongoes to Saudi Arabia, some of that money goes to Pakistan to fund these madrassas. That’s indisputable.”[CSPAN Washington Journal, 6/23/11]

Ethics Issues

Promised No More than Two Pieces of Franked Mail Per Year

In February 2011, Scott Rigell promised to reduce the amount of franked mail sent to constituents. Hesaid, “ No more than two pieces per year. Plain recycled paper. I think it’s wrong to use taxpayer money to build name identification.” [Washington Post, 2/14/11]

Promised to Return 15 Percent of Salary to Government

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In February 2011, Scott Rigell promised to return 15 percent of his salary back to the government.[Washington Post, 2/14/11] 

Wanted to turn Fort Monroe into National Park 

In August 2011, Rigell introduced a bill that would turn Fort Monroe into a national park, a move thatwould “probably cost close to $600,000 annually.”

The examiner explained that “It just goes to show that not every Republican congressional representativeis innately opposed to federal spending.” [The Examiner, 8/2/2011]

Foreign Policy Issues

Criticized President for Consulting UN instead of Congress

In March 2011, Rigell criticized the President for consulting the UN instead of Congress before ordering

the Libyan mission. “It’s troubling to me that the President found it necessary to go and get United Nations approval for this, yet did not come to the United States Congress,” Rigell said. “There wascertainly time. He had time to go to the United Nations, so he should have had the time to take councilfrom our Congress.” [WAVY-TV, 3/22/11]

Supported Delay in Dismantling Joint Forces Command

In 2011, Rigell supported an amendment that would delay the dismantling of Joint Forces CommandAmendment. While encouraging his colleagues to support the amendment, Rigell claimed it was “costneutral.”

However, according to the Association of Defense Communities, the closure was “expected to save about430 million a year.” [Association of Defense Communities, 2/22/11; Rigell Floor Remarks on Forbes Amendment 145 to

HR1, 2/17/11]

Opposed to Continued Participation in Libya

In May 2011, Rigell introduced legislation that would prohibit spending any more federal dollars on theLibyan Campaign. According to the Virginian-Pilot, “Rigell said Friday that he wants American forces toend their participation in United Nations military actions against Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafiimmediately.”

The Pilot also noted that “Rigell said his bill is meant to force the issue by challenging the president'sauthority to act without first seeking the support of Congress and whether the United States should beinvolved in another country's internal conflict.” [The Virginian-Pilot, 05/07/2011]

Against Libyan Occupation

In June 2011, Rigell released a statement about his feelings towards Libyan involvement.

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Rigell said that “I have been against our involvement in that country since day one of operations.”

He continued by explaining that “An egregious, ongoing breach of the Separation of Powers is taking place, specifically the usurpation of a power given only to Congress, found in Article 1, Section 8, of theConstitution: only Congress can declare war.

A careful review of the Administration's case for support of actions in Libya leads me to this sobering, butfirm conclusion: the President’s use of force in Libya is UNCONSTITUTIONAL and UNWISE.” [RigellReport, 7/08/2011]

Gay and Lesbian Issues

Voted for Defense Authorization Bill and Anti-Gay Provision

In May 2011, Rigell voted for a provision that would make it so the military would, according to the

Virginian-Pilot, “only recognize marriages between a man and a woman” and “would effectively prohibitmilitary installations from hosting same-sex weddings and would bar Defense Department chaplains or civilians from performing such ceremonies as part of their official duties.”

Rigell said that the provision keeps with his personal beliefs, stating that “When it comes to the institutionof marriage, I hold the view that human history teaches us and what I’ve learned … is that marriage between one man and one woman is best.” [The Virginian-Pilot, 06/01/2011] 

Gun Issues

Health Care IssuesPolitifact Rated Statement About Medicare “Barely True”

In June 2011, Rigell said that the GOP Medicare plan offered those under 55 the same options enjoyed byCongress.

Politifact disagreed, rating this statement “barely true.”

Politifact explained that “At a minimum, the premium supports of the Medicare plan would not keep pacewith the historic record of rapidly increasing health care costs. Additionally, seniors make significantly

less income than members of Congress and would not likely have the same options to buy more expensive plans. And, finally, they would not receive the same protection against rising costs that "Fair Share" provides members of Congress.” [Politifact, 6/23/2011]

Added to American Action Network Vulnerable Freshman list

In August 2011, the American Action Network added ten vulnerable freshman House Republicans to itscampaign defending Republicans on Medicare. Rigell was among the 10. [The Hill, 8/3/2011]

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Immigration and Border Issues

IsraelLabor and Working Family Issues

Rigell’s Office was Scene of Postal Rally

In September 2011, postal workers gathered outside Rigell’s office to urge him vote for HR 1351, whichwould release $6.9 billion in pension obligations to replenish USPS coffers. Some of the affected postalcenters would be in Rigell’s VA district. Rigell acknowledged he would study their arguments, but added"The numbers out there in the general press are different from what you're [the postal workers] showingme here. […] I'll go where the facts lead me as best as I understand them." [Virginian-Pilot, 9/28/11]

Other Social Issues

Personal Finance

Region’s Richest Congressman

In June 2011, the Daily Press reported that Rigell is the region’s richest Congressman.

According to the Daily Press, “Rigell reported assets of at least $11 million, including several car dealerships, bank accounts, real estate holdings, insurance policies and stock investments scatteredthroughout the United States.

The Virginia Beach Republican, who ousted Rep. Glenn Nye, D-Norfolk, netted at least $1 million after selling the Lincoln franchise of the Freedom Lincoln Mercury dealership he owns in Chesapeake. He alsomade $500,000 selling vacant land in Chesapeake.

He listed liabilities of $500,001 to $1 million for a line of credit for ATTAP LLC, a Virginia Beach-basedreal estate company that he manages. He also reported up to $50,000 in credit card debt.

Rigell, who rode a wave of turnout from Hampton Roads' conservative voters to beat Nye, invested atleast $2 million of his own money, including loans, in the campaign. He also spent more than $1 million,including money from donors, in the Republican primary.” [Daily Press, 06/15/2011]

Filed 2011 Financial Disclosure

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In 2011, Scott Rigell reported earnings between $1.89 million - $12.5 million for calendar year 2010. ScotRigell holds assets valued between $11,066,003 - $44,568,000. Scott Rigell reported liabilities werevalued between $515,000-$1,050,000.

In 2010, He received $9,361 in earned income from Freedom Ford for vehicle use.

Under earned income, Rigell reported his assets are from Freedom Ford Norfolk LLC and FreedomInvestments which is valued at a combined value of $5,566,000-$26,165,000. Rigell sold part of hisFreedom Lincoln Mercury dealership valued at $1,000,000-$5,000,000. Rigell receives at least $472,500-$4,170,000 in income from properties that he rents. Rigell has between $200,000 and $778,000 in 401K and IRA assets. In 2009, his income he received from assets ranged from $675K-$4.73 million. As of April 30, 2010, he also held assets valued between $12.17 million and $52.24 million.

Rigell reported $15,000-$50,000 for Credit Card Debt under liabilities. He also had $500,000-$1,000,000for ATTAP LP.

Rigell reported that he was President and Director of Rigell Investments (uncompensated), Manager andTax Partner at various positions and Chairman, Secretary and Director at Freedom Automotive, FreedomFord and Freedom Lincoln Mercury. [Scott Rigell Financial Disclosure, Filed 05/13/2011]

Rigell Had At Least $50,000 in Credit Card Debt

“He listed liabilities of $500,001 to $1 million for a line of credit for ATTAP LLC, a Virginia Beach- based real estate company that he manages. He also reported up to $50,000 in credit card debt.” [DailyPress, 6/15/11]

Rigell is 24th Richest Member of Congress

In August 2011, Rep. Rigell was listed as the 24 th richest member in Congress.

According to Roll Call, Rigell has 11.21 million in assets and 0.52 million in liabilities, this ranks him asthe 24th richest member in Congress. [Roll Call, 8/19/11]

Rigell: His Summer Break 

In August 2011, a spokeswoman for Rep. Rigell discussed what Rigell would be likely doing over theAugust recess.

The National Journal reported, “’I’ve never known Scott Rigell to relax or have a vacation, so I’m notexpecting him to take one this August,’ said Kim Mosser, a spokeswoman for the Republican Housemember from Virginia.” [National Journal 8/16/11]

Stem Cells

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Tax Issues

Supported the Fair Tax

Rigell said “The fair tax represents a viable alternative for us as a country,” when asked if he supported a

national sales tax. [Virginian Pilot, 2/01/11]

Supported Replacing Federal Income Tax With National Sales Tax

During a January 2011 town hall meeting, Rigell spoke about his support of replacing the federal incometax with a national sales tax. An idea that is called the fair tax by supporters. “The fair tax represents aviable alternative for us as a country,” he said. [The Virginia-Pilot, 2/01/11]

Tea Party

Rigell Said He Shouldn’t Be Singled Out to Pay More Taxes

In October 2011, Rigell agreed with Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.) who said "I am unapologetic in sayingwe, who make a large income ... should be paying their fair share," but Rigell maintained that the real problem was reforming the tax code, not taxing the rich specifically. Rigell said, "To the extent that thereare loopholes, or provisions, that are available to some taxpayers and not to others, I have a real problemwith that. […] I [hope] that Congress, both parties, can come together and simplify our tax code. That isan effort that every one of us must embrace regardless of political party affiliation." Rigell was one of 12Congressmen who would be affected by the proposed Buffet Rule to tax capital gains at a higher rate thanmiddle class income. [Roll call, 10/11/11]

Rigell’s 3rd Quarter 2011 FEC Report

In October 2011, Scott Rigell for Congress filed its October 2011 Quarterly FEC Report. Rigell raised$313,281.22 in the 3rd quarter of 2011, has $ 618,318.35 cash on hand and spent $87,386.16. Rigell received $142,865.62 from PACs. [Scott Rigell for Congress, filed 10/15/11] Contributions of Note: 

Contributed $25,000 to His Campaign. In September 2011, Rigell made a personal contributionof $25,000 to his campaign. Rigell still has $324,500 of personal loans owed to himself. His totalraised without personal contribution is $288,281.22. 

Received a $10,000 personal contribution From Congressman Mike Kelly and Wife. OnSeptember 29, 2011, Mr. George J. ‘Mike’ Kelly Jr. and wife, Victoria Kelly contributed $5,000each to Rigell for Congress. Congressman Mike Kelly lists his occupation as President of MikeKelley Automobile. Additionally, three days before Rigell and his wife, Terri, contributed $5,000each to Mike Kelly For Congress. Rigell lists his occupation and an “automobile dealer” atFreedom Automotive. [Mike Kelly for Congress 2011 October Quarterly, filed 10/15/11]

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 Received $5,000 for Cantor’s Leadership PAC. In September 2011, Rigell received $5,000from Every Republican is Crucial (ERIC PAC). His cycle total is $10,000 from Cantor. Received $5,000 from Paul Ryan’s Prosperity PAC. In September 2011, Rigell received $5000

from Ryan’s Prosperity PAC. 

Received $14,000 from Speaker John Boehner. In September 2011, Rigell received $10,000from Boehner’s Freedom Project PAC. In September 2011, Rigell received $4000 from Friends of John Boehner.

Received $500 from One of CREW’s Most Corrupt Congressman, Vern Buchanan. InSeptember 2011, Rigell received $500 from Vern Buchanan’s PAC Vote to Elect Republicans Now. Received $8037 from Patriot Day II Joint Fundraising Committee. In October 2011, Rigell

received $8037 from the Patriot Day Joint Fundraising Committee. Received $7,057.22 in Media Credits from On Message Inc. In September 2011, Rigellreceived $7057.22 in media credits from On Message Inc. Received $1,000 from NRA Pac. In September 2011, Rigell received $1000 from the NRA PAC. Received $5,000 from Ford Motor Action Fund. In September 2011, Rigell received $5000from the Ford Motor Company Civic Action Fund. Received $2500 from the McCarthy’s Leadership PAC. In September 2011, Rigell received$2500 from the Majority Committee PAC. Received $10,000 from the Family Research Council Action PAC. In July 2011, Received$10000 from the Family Research Council Action PAC.

 Expenditures of Note: 

Paid $1,500 to Own Company for Rent. From July-September 2011, Rigell paid $500 a monthto Freedom Properties in Norfolk, VA. Paid Over $45,000 for Consultations. From July-September 2011, Rigell paid over $45,000 tofundraising, political and compliance consultants.

Rigell’s Formed Leadership PAC

In October 2011, Scott Rigell formed a leadership PAC, Better Leadership – Better America. [Statement of 

Organization, filed 10/12/11]

Rigell Used Taxpayer Money to Purchase Google Ads

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In September 2011, a Google ad appeared that linked to Rigell’s official website.

[google.com, 9/27/11]

Transportation Issues

Campaign 2012

Rigell: “I Didn't Say I Can Fix Everything”

Rigell promised to focus on promoting job creation and making government smaller, but acknowledged “Ididn't say I can fix everything.” [Virginian Pilot, 2/01/11]

Veteran Issues

Supported Free Health Care for Retired Veterans

In February 2011, Rigell criticized Defense Secretary Robert Gates’ plan to increase by $5 a month thefee retired working-age military personnel pay for family health-care coverage known as TRICARE.Rigell told Gates that based on his conversations with retirees who had enlisted with the expectation thatthey would get free health care for life, the proposed increase was “a breach of trust to change the deal.”

Gates said that it was Congress in 1995 that approved a $460 annual fee for retiree TRICARE familycoverage and added that Congress never said the fee would stay the same. [Washington Post, 2/17/11]

Women’s Issues

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