For too long, Americans have fallen victim to financial abuses at the hands of predatory lenders that operate in the shadows.

For too long, Americans have fallen victim to financial abuses at the hands of predatory lenders that operate in the shadows.

North Carolina is home to some of the largest financial institutions in the country, and a vibrant network of community banks. We're a banking state, and we're proud of that distinction. But we also understand that responsible financial regulation protects consumers and businesses.

We in Congress need to do everything possible to encourage and cultivate small businesses, so that they can expand and create jobs. Far too often, however, U.S. small businesses are impeded by government paperwork and bureaucratic red tape.

The Small Business 'common app' would function much like the one that students complete to apply to multiple colleges and universities simultaneously. It would ensure that small businesses across the country can concentrate on growing and creating jobs - not wasting time, filling out mountains of repetitive paperwork.

I need to be looking at what's important in North Carolina, and you better believe that's what I will do.

I'm up for re-election in 2014, and yes I do plan to run for re-election.