Happy New Year to the residents of the 1st District!
As we look fondly back on 2007 and begin to look ahead to 2008, I am excited to continue my role as your voice and vote in the U.S. Congress. I can't wait to get to work on January 15th, when the Congress starts back to work. In the meantime, I am out, traveling the District listening to constituents, figuring out what needs to be done in the coming year to make your government work better for you.
I have heard from a number of folks who are concerned about Veteran's care. I think that our government has a responsibility to take care of our fine men and women who put their lives on the line in defense of our freedom. That is why I will make it a priority in the coming year to do everything in my power to make sure our veterans receive the proper care and treatment they deserve.
I have also heard from a number of folks that we need to do something about illegal immigration. I think that we need to stop arguing back and forth about this problem and sit down, democrats and republicans, and come up with a solution that works. You don't send us to Washington to argue, you send us there to get things done, and on the issue of illegal immigration that is what I intend to do.
Many of the people I have had an opportunity to speak with have said that they are frustrated with the lack of progress by Congress in solving the problems faced by our nation. We need to get to work in solving these problems. Most of the time the best ideas for how to make our government work best do not come from politicians - they come from you - the fine folks who deal with these issues on a daily basis. I ask that you let me know your thoughts on the issues we face and how you believe we can best address them.
Of course, this time of the year also reminds me of all that we have. The holidays reminded me of the simple joy of friends and family.With voters in Iowa, New Hampshire and other states about to begin the process of choosing our next president, I am reminded of our great democracy and the freedom it represents. And, as I travel around the First District, I am reminded of why I got involved in public service, because of the fine folks that I am privileged to serve.
And so as we start the New Year, I am hopeful that the lessons learned this past year will serve me well and that my optimism moving forward will allow me to be a strong voice for America's First Congressional District.
My door is always open so if there is anything I can do for you, please do not hesitate to contact me. You can reach me at 202-225-4261. My staff and I are here for you, so let us know what's on your mind, what issues are important to you, and how we can best serve you in 2008.
