Opinion Pieces by Rob
Over the last few months, I have traveled across the First Congressional District, speaking with Virginians, small business owners, city and county government officials, and so many others. I hosted town halls, met with many of my First District Advisory Councils, and even visited schools as the new school year began. The input and the feedback I receive from constituents are critical, as I remain a public servant of this community and the Commonwealth. Overwhelmingly, the unsustainable growth of government and concern for lost jobs remain the top issue.
The announcement by Defense Secretary Robert Gates to make cuts at the Defense Department, specifically the decision to eliminate the Joint Forces Command, is shortsighted, devoid of strategic decision-making and could harm national security.
The Gulf oil spill and the resulting environmental impact have made big headlines these last several months. We've watched with deep concern over oiled birds and ruined marshes. To many Virginians, the damage in the Gulf has turned attention towards our backyard and the health of the Chesapeake Bay.