SAFEGUARDING OUR DEMOCRACY
We need to make sure that our democracy is once again the envy of the world and a source of pride for our citizens. Our reputation in the world has suffered, and we need to establish or regain our position of the global leader innovation, economy, human rights, and happiness. This is not just through programs or initiatives, but through the way we interact with one another and the way that we emphasize our civil society to future generations. We sometimes forget that we are family, and a community that only grows when we are united. This means that we get back to having conversations with our neighbors and when we disagree, working on ways to move forward together. It means that we don’t respond to the whims of social media or the media, but instead respond to the needs and concerns of our communities and respond to those concerns in a way that takes all sides into consideration. This is not an impossible task, just one we have left behind in many respects. Let us get to that concept of the United States of America that looks out for one another, that is the global leader in every way, and values the way we speak to one another especially when we disagree. We cannot forget that the role of the U.S. Congress is to act as a co-equal branch of government, not rubber stamping everything the President does or says but questioning the office to ensure that it is in the best interests of the country – no matter what party is in power. We cannot forget that the role of a Representative is to make sure that the interests of the district work with the interests of the country and together, move forward. Where we can contribute to our country we must, and where we can benefit from the country we should. By forging a path forward together, and coming together to create sensible, efficient, and effective government, we can move to a point where we aren’t paying attention to the next media headline or government hearing, but to where we can focus on what matters – our families and communities. Let us show our children that we have a hopeful and better future ahead of us, and working towards that better future is not just in our interests, but our responsibility as citizens of the greatest country on Earth.