What a week it has been! After a whirlwind campaign that lasted only one month, my family and I found ourselves up in our nation's capitol last Thursday where I was sworn in as Virginia's newest Congressman. Congressman Frank Wolf, the Dean of the Virginia Delegation, introduced me to the rest of the Representatives and was very gracious in his comments. Later, when the Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, asked me to raise my right hand and take the oath of office, I was truly humbled to be in such a wonderful place, surrounded by so much history and tradition.
After the ceremony, friends and family got together and surprised me with a very nice "Welcome to Congress" reception. It was fun to see so many smiling faces and to be able to enjoy the moment with my wife and kids (and granddaughter too!). But as soon as the party was over, I got right to work. I was able to cast my first vote the same day that I was sworn in. My first vote, in case you were curious, was on the Continuing Resolution, which provided funding for our Federal Government so it could continue to operate. Without a Continuing Resolution, the Government would have shut down, so I was pleased to vote yes so that we could keep doing all that you expect from us.
Since those first memorable moments, we have been hard at work. The first thing I did was re-hire all of Jo Ann's staff. In the few days since my swearing in, they have been a great tool and have been a tremendous asset to me. I also added a few new faces to the team and got the offices in Washington and the District set-up and ready for business.
I have already been able to cast votes on important bills that deal with health care, taxes, safe toys for our kids, and on a bill that makes sure we give our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan the resources they need to win the war on terror. I was proud to be sworn in so soon after the election and go to work on behalf of the fine folks in America's First Congressional District.
Overall, it has been a very rewarding experience so far. Driving around Washington can be a bit confusing, and all those tunnels underneath the Capitol can give you headaches, but the people here have been very accepting and gracious to my family and me, sharing their own personal experiences and survival tips with us.
And, of course, like I said during the campaign, my door is always open. If you need to get a hold of me, don't hesitate to call us in Washington. Our office phone number is 202-225-4261. And if you're in Washington, stop by and say hello, we're in room 1123 in the Longworth House Office Building. You can also go to our website http://wittman.house.gov
Finally, from my family to yours, let me wish you all Happy Holidays and a wonderful New Year!
