Media

This week brought an opportunity to visit with and attend an array of events around America's First District.

This week I visited local businesses, discussing job creation and speaking with many local employers from America's First District. Their message was clear that what's coming out of Washington, DC, is not helping the atmosphere for small businesses looking to expand and create jobs.

This week I had a chance to sit down with my Seniors' Advisory Councils in the upper and lower parts of the district to give them an update on issues before Congress of interest to them, and discuss their concerns and questions. The First District Seniors' Advisory Councils were created to provide constituents with a discussion forum on issues of interest to the senior community, with topics such as economic security, improving the communities in which seniors live and work, health care and other issues.

Last week brought a stunning announcement from Defense Secretary Robert Gates that he intends to close Joint Forces Command in Norfolk. This Command ensures that all of our forces work together in the most efficient way possible to combat the threats our nation faces. This announcement came as a shock to the Commonwealth. I joined with Governor McDonnell and Congressmen Forbes, Scott, and Nye on Monday to share the frustrations and concerns about the quick decision, and the strategic implications for our nation.

Last week came to a great close as I visited with the Hampton VA Medical Center on Friday and spoke with the men and women in uniform who have sacrificed for our nation. They are a true inspiration, as we all recognize their service and sacrifice to defend our nation and their efforts past and present in locations across the world to keep us safe. I was pleased to have the opportunity to spend time with them to talk about their experience at the Hampton Center.