My Washington Office is a Resource for You

As folks from the 19th District look forward to 2008 and plan family and business trips, I want to remind you that my office in Washington, DC can be a valuable resource to ensure your visit to our nation’s capital is fulfilling and enjoyable.

With advance notice, my office can arrange tours of the U.S. Capitol, the White House and the Library of Congress, as well as provide other useful information for visiting some of the greatest monuments in our nation’s capital. Additionally, my office can arrange to have a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol to mark any occasion. The flag is flown over the Capitol and is presented with a certificate of authenticity which can include a special inscription.

Additionally, I can assist with military academy nominations, send certificates for the fine young men who have reached Eagle Scout, as well as arrange greeting cards from the President marking certain special occasions such as a 50th wedding anniversary or 100th birthday. For more information on visiting Washington, DC and how my office can help, you can call my Washington office directly at (202) 225-4005 or visit my website at www.randy.house.gov.

As always, I also encourage all residents of the 19th District to contact me if you need any assistance with a federal agency or would like to share any comments, thoughts and recommendations on legislation the House may be considering.

Sobering Reminder of the Global War on Terror and Enemies of Freedom

On December 27, 2007, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, Benazir Bhutto, was assassinated during a campaign rally. Her assassination was brutal, and is yet another ugly reminder that in today’s world, no one is safe from the evil of radical Islamic terrorism.  Benazir Bhutto was a leading advocate and powerful voice for democracy and reform in Pakistan. She believed in hope and a brighter future for the people of her country. She returned to Pakistan, knowing full well of the threats, but she faced them with steadfast courage to defend the principles she believed in.

This barbaric action is a reminder of the importance to continue to fight against terrorists and enemies of freedom. As a nuclear power, the stability of Pakistan is of the utmost importance to not only the Middle East, but the entire global community. We must continue to monitor the developments there and help ensure a stable Pakistan, as it moves forward to free and democratic elections.

Veto of Defense Authorization Bill

On December 28, 2007, President Bush vetoed the National Defense Authorization Act. Because this legislation provides the authority to spend money already approved in the defense funding bill, we now must move quickly to ensure a quick remedy.

The National Defense Authorization Act passed the House of Representatives nearly unanimously, but President Bush vetoed this legislation because one specific provision that would cause undue harm on the political and economic progress in Iraq requires modification. I remain confident in the administration’s commitment to work with Congress promptly to assure that all of the programs included in this bill will not be jeopardized. Among the highest priority is the anticipated pay increase and benefit improvements for the men and women in uniform. The President has made it clear that once the bill is acceptable, he will make sure the pay raise for troops will be retroactive, starting January 1, 2008.  I support his call for this action.

It is my sincere hope that the Congressional leadership will work expeditiously with the President to correct this one provision. We need to finalize the National Defense Authorization Bill to secure important programs and make sure our troops receive the money they have earned.

--Randy