I was in the White House in early December for discussions regarding the federal budget and sequestration. These issues will have a significant impact on the national economy and on San Diego. I was reminded that San Diego needs a stronger voice in our nation’s capital on issues that impact our region.

San Diego is home to one of the most vibrant economies in the country and part of what makes our region so prosperous is its proximity to the Mexican border. Yet this is not what people outside the region often hear about. Instead, they hear tales of drug cartel kidnapping, robbery and other crimes.