26th Congressional District: October 2008 Archives

On our regular telephone town hall meetings, I've heard from families throughout the Foothills on the things that matter most - getting the economy back on track, getting American-made energy now, ending illegal immigration and tackling day-to-day challenges like reducing traffic and maintaining a clean, safe water supply.
The economy is clearly first and foremost on everyone's mind. In this difficult climate, small businesses are struggling to secure credit to meet payroll. Consumers are struggling to get loans to buy a car or home, or even pay for college. People's retirements are on the line. I believe we need to take careful steps to prevent this downturn from worsening, while protecting all taxpayers.
In order to promote economic growth and create jobs, I have consistently voted to keep taxes low, keep spending in check, and provide benefits to those who are struggling to find work. I have also supported housing legislation designed to assist families facing the loss of their home. Also key to our economic recovery is establishing an American-made energy supply with American resources and American jobs, something I have voted to achieve.
National security has been another constant topic of discussion. I have always voted to fully fund our troops and border patrol agents.
I have also strongly supported our veterans by voting to expand benefits like improved health care and enhancing the G.I. Bill of Rights.
On the local front, I believe working in a bipartisan way is key to results. As a result of a true federal-state-local partnership, my Democratic colleagues and I have brought home over $70 million to get perchlorate contamination out of our drinking water in the San Gabriel Valley. We are also increasing our local water supplies in the western Inland Empire with 100,000 new acre feet of clean recycled water annually.
Another challenge is reducing traffic congestion. My Democratic colleagues and I, working closely with local leaders, have helped secure nearly $30 million to bring the Gold Line Foothill Extension through the Valley to Montclair and build a strong relationship with the Federal Transit Administration to recognize its value.
Challenges remain, specifically getting the support of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, but this is a fight worth waging together.
We're in tough times and we need a bipartisan approach to solving the challenges facing our country and communities. I will continue fighting for you and I look forward to serving you in the next Congress.