News Release - Etheridge Named Chair of Rural Working Group

News Release
Congressman Bob Etheridge
North Carolina

May 9, 2005

Contact: Sara Lang
Phone: (202) 225-4531

Etheridge Named Chair of Democratic Rural Working Group

WASHINGTON - U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge (D-Lillington) has been named a co-chair of the Democratic Rural Working Group. The group's 46 members work with rural constituents, experts and national organizations to develop Democratic rural policy priorities.

"I am honored to chair the Rural Working Group, and I look forward to working on behalf of our rural communities," Etheridge said. "From education to the economy and from agriculture to health care, Democrats are committed to providing hope and opportunity for the hard-working, God-fearing people of rural America."

Etheridge will lead the Rural Working Group along with Rep. Stephanie Herseth (D-SD). One of the first issues that the group will tackle is the impact of rising gas prices on rural families, who must commuter longer distances, and farmers, who depend on gas to keep their farm equipment running. Etheridge and Herseth will examine policies to promote and develop alternative fuels, like ethanol and biodiesel.

Throughout the year, the lawmakers will focus on Democrats' priorities to make rural communities and the nation stronger. They will advocate for a return to the values of balanced budgets and common-sense solutions. The Rural Working Group will formulate policies to create jobs in rural communities by supporting small businesses and family farmers. They will support the building of critical infrastructure, like roads, airports and information systems, so that rural communities are not left behind. They will work to strengthen our families by improving education, health care and housing, and they will keep nation's commitments and honor its values by honoring the men and women serving in the military today and the veterans who have served in the past.