Media

With millions out of work, Americans want to know if Congress has a plan to rebuild American industry and create jobs. Democrats do have a plan.

Throughout its 28 years, National Night Out has experienced great growth and developed a strong following, both around the nation and here in the Fifth Congressional District.

Today, the Senate passed legislation ensuring that our nation will pay the bills it has incurred and avoid a default on its debt, which would have been an economic catastrophe.

Throughout negotiations on the debt limit, I fought to ensure that federal employees were not expected to pay more than their fair share, and I think it is appropriate that the agreement reached between President Obama and Congressional leaders does not disproportionately impact federal employees.

We have missed, in my opinion, a wonderful opportunity. An opportunity to make a grand bargain, as the Speaker wanted to do, as Leader Pelosi wanted to do, as Leader Reid wanted to do, as the president wanted to do, and as the Vice President wanted to do.

I am pleased that the U.S. Postal Service has decided against closing the Charlotte Hall Post Office which has served this community since 1797.

Mr. Speaker, ladies and gentlemen of this House, I am pleased to rise with my colleague and dear friend, Barbara Lee, to focus on an issue that all too frequently is ignored. I rise to speak as we are engaged in an extraordinarily important discussion, debate, and responsibility.