FOR RELEASE: November 15, 2006

In the wake of last week’s Congressional elections, the House of Representatives will be reorganized under Democratic control. I hope that the 110th Congress, which convenes in January will produce bi-partisan consensus on the important issues facing the United States.

It appears that for the first time in history, a woman will chosen Speaker of the House. Nancy Pelosi has represented the San Francisco area of California since 1987, and she has been the minority leader in the House for the past four years. When the results of the election were known, Ms. Pelosi said that she is prepared to work in a bi-partisan way to move the country forward.

The way that the House organizes every two years is for each party to nominate a leader. The members of the House vote, and the nominee of the party with the majority of the 435 seats prevails and is named Speaker. Following the election of the Speaker, members of the House are assigned to serve on committees.

In the House of Delegates in the Virginia General Assembly, the Speaker makes the committee assignments. However, in the House of Representatives, the assignments are made by the leadership of the two political parties. I have been serving on the Appropriations Committee, and, because of the seniority that I have built in my ten years in the House, it appears that I will continue to serve on that committee.

In the 110th Congress, I will continue to focus on the issues that are most important to residents of the Fifth District. It is important that we further our work to build an even stronger economy across Southside Virginia. Economic development is generated mostly in each of the cities and counties, and I will work to bring federal investment to the initiatives that localities develop to attract new industries and help existing companies stay strong and expand.

The security of the United States also remains of paramount importance. The terrorists who struck on 9/11 remain committed to destroying the United States and all other freedom-loving countries. A critical part of security is stopping illegal immigration. Evidence has shown that we have would-be terrorists, gun-runners and drug smugglers coming across our borders daily. In addition to posing a security risk, the illegals are over-burdening hospitals, social service programs and public education facilities. Last month, the President signed legislation to build a double-walled fence along parts of the southern border. I believe that we must not let up in our work to secure our borders to prevent the entry of illegals and curb the illegal activities of those who are here already.

Please keep in touch with me on issues that are important to you. You may write Congressman Virgil Goode, 70 East Court Street, Room 215, Rocky Mount, VA 24151; or fax to 1-540-484-1459; or call toll-free to the Danville office, 1-800-535-4008.