President Abraham Lincoln described our democracy as a government “by the people, of the people, and for the people.” Our founding fathers designed a government where the people are the source of power and elected officials serve in their trust. Our government was intended from the beginning to involve the American citizens. With the rise of the tools of the 21st century and ever-increasing online engagement, so should the voice of citizens rise to communicate with their government.
This week I had the chance to visit with many of you, and I always enjoy hearing your thoughts and concerns about the issues that affect us. Virginians want their voices heard in Washington, DC. An integral part of my job is to listen to you, and what your concerns are. It’s important that we have an exchange of ideas, and facilitate ways to debate and interact.
In order to bring reform and to transform government, we cannot simply watch and wait, but we must take action. That’s why I’m asking for your input.
Discussions about the direction of this nation should not happen behind closed doors but in an honest, transparent forum. Every American can make a difference in Washington, DC, and I encourage you to share your ideas on the economy, government spending, health care or other topics critical to the future of this nation.
Please be in touch. Here are a few ways to reach me and share ideas:
AmericaSpeakingOut.Com
This new effort, americaspeakingout.com, is an online portal engaging thousands of American people in the process of building a new policy agenda for America. This site serves both as an outlet and a listening portal. Through this site, the American people are given a voice in setting the priorities for a national agenda, and through this new communications tool, all Americans will have an opportunity to be a part of this effort. This is a national site, but I’ll be able to interact with those of you who take part in the discussion on AmericaSpeakingOut.Com.
E-mail my office
Send me an individual message in an email through the form on my website. Recently, I shared some of the e-mail opinions of constituents on the House Floor, who are concerned about out-of-control government spending.
Facebook, YouTube and Twitter
As the co-chair of the Republican New Media Caucus, I’m especially excited to hear from you on social media sites. Chances are you’re already on these sites. I hope you take a moment to stop by my Facebook page, send me a tweet, or tape a short video sharing your thoughts.
Folks, I hope you will take the opportunity to share your thoughts and concerns. I look forward to engaging with you on the issues that affect the future for our children, our communities, and our nation.
Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the Natural Resources Committee and the Armed Services Committee where he is the Ranking Member of the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee.
