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CAOCHELLA VALLEY-- Freshman Congressman Raul Ruiz says he doesn't plan to vote on every bill that comes across his desk. In fact, senior house members advised him against trying. Tonight, the U.S. Representative of California's 36th District shares where he stands on important issues, and how he plans to implement changes that will make a difference in your life.

Representative Raul Ruiz is settling into life on Capitol Hill. He's only been a Congressman for 41 days. Tonight, we take a look at his views on some of the hot button issues in Washington, and what Ruiz says is the most important one, here in the valley.

Ruiz certainly has his opinions on the issues plaguing America.

Thalia Hayden: Gun control-- that's in the forefront right now because of the whole Sandy Hook tragedy. Can you share your stance on that?

Ruiz: It's interesting Thalia- I've been going around the district speaking with law enforcement and the police chiefs. If we cannot enforce what we already have in place, then you can add whatever new law and its not going to work. So, we need to find ways to enforce and support our law enforcement, against bad people who want to do harm, and that should be the priority.

And here in Riverside County, Sheriff Stan Sniff says he opposes an assault weapons ban set forth by California Senator Diane Fienstein.

"We also have to take a more holistic look at how we want to prevent the culture of violence in our communities and also support the mental health portions of gun violence prevention programs, and teach at an early age- conflict resolution," says Ruiz.

Thalia: How about we move on to immigration laws. Is the country going in the right direction? What needs to be done in your opinion?

Ruiz: Well we all know that our current immigration system is broken. Comprehensive Immigration Reform is one of the most important issues here in our district. We need to have laws that clearly state that there is an earned path to citizenship.

Ruiz says that path includes making sure those who enter the country legally get expedited, those who become newly registered pay a certain fee, and ensure that employers only hire documented and registered immigrants.

Thalia: What about those who aren't registered?

Ruiz: Well, thats the part of the law where we want them to come out of the shadows and register and participate in this earned path to citizenship.

And what about our national debt? The former E.R. doctor has a prescription to help balance the budget.

"We absolutely need to stop the partisanship, come together, and create some bipartisan support to reduce our debt- the number one thing that we can do -- is create jobs," says Ruiz.

Ruiz says the Coachella Valley is poised to take a leadership role in job creation with new opportunities happing in the renewable energy and healthcare industries here in the valley.

"Right now I'm meeting with industry leaders in both these industries to figure out what we can do that is strategic to make sure that this district can get get the most milage from any policy that we work to create. That is my priority. That is my focus.

So you heard it.  Job creation here in the valley is what the congressman says he is focused on in Washington. It's a top priority. He's back in D.C. this week for hearings and meetings. Ruiz has two years to show voters what he can do.