Scott Brown drew national attention — and some national dollars — for the sole fact that, if elected, he would be Republican’s 41st vote against President Barack Obama’s health-care bill. A look at the newest Massachusetts senator’s positions on other hot issues:
Abortion
Brown supports abortion rights, though he said the government has the responsibility to regulate through parental consent and notification requirements. He opposes partial-birth abortion.
Death penalty
Brown supports capital punishment.
Marriage
Brown says he believes marriage is between a man and a woman, yet says states should be able to make their own decision on the matter.
Economy
Brown says he is “a free enterprise advocate who believes that lower taxes can encourage economic growth.”
Energy and Environment
Brown supports the development of alternative energy sources such as wind, solar, nuclear, geothermal and improved hydroelectric facilities and opposes a national cap and trade program.
Education
Brown supports school choice through charter schools and having a graduation requirement for high school students.
Immigration
Brown is against providing driver’s licenses and in-state tuition to illegal immigrant families. He is for strengthening border enforcement and instituting an employment verification system with penalties for companies that hire illegal immigrants.
Gun issues
Brown supports the right of citizens to keep and bear arms.
Israel
Brown supports a two-state solution that reaffirms Israel’s right to exist and provides the Palestinians with a place of their own where both sides can live in peace and security.
Afghanistan and Iraq
Brown — who does not list positions on the two wars on his campaign Web site — supports Obama’s decision to send the additional 30,000 troops to Afghanistan. He said the surge of troops also worked in Iraq.