This week we continue to mourn the tragedy in Arizona that took six precious lives and wounded many others, including my colleague Gabrielle Giffords. This tragedy has shaken so many, and yet it also provides a lesson for us. It was a senseless act of violence at a time and a place where there should be none. We cannot deny that there is evil in the world, but as the President said this week: "Heroism is here . . . just waiting to be summoned." While we saw an act of evil, we saw so many acts of courage. Heroes, like Daniel Hernandez, the intern who ran towards the scene, inspire us that while this evil exists, there are so many people in our communities ready to serve, and willing to sacrifice.
Too many have unfortunately focused on where to lay blame, and while it is important to understand what motivated this event and how to prevent it in the future, I believe we must also focus on what we should not do in the wake of this horrific tragedy. We must not allow this to isolate our lawmakers from their constituents. We must not allow this to stop the input of the citizens in their republic. And as a lawmaker, I believe we must not lose focus on why we are elected to Congress – and that is to represent you. An event such as “Congress on Your Corner” shows how our republic form of government works best – our representatives among the people, listening to them and talking with them about their concerns, priorities, and opinions. As I have done in my years in public service, I intend to talk with you, visit events, and continue to travel around America’s First District. Virginia’s strength was built upon the humble building blocks of our Founding Fathers, who each were, simply, one of us.
Soon Congress will resume business on legislation, bringing forward legislation to repeal and replace the health care overhaul in order to both improve the delivery of health care, increase access to affordable care, and lower health care costs. I believe we must ensure affordable, accessible health care, and that the current health overhaul law does not achieve those goals. In fact, it raises costs, and mandates government involvement in an area that is deeply personal. It is my hope that we can have a full debate the issues with the current law and pass legislation that will result in responsible health care reform.
As always, please continue to communicate with me your concerns, opinions or thoughts on legislation before the federal government by email on my website, www.wittman.house.gov, or by phone at 202-225-4261. May God continue to bless America.
