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Dear Friend,
Last week was a district work period- one week out of every month, in which there are no committee hearings or votes in DC. Instead, we are able to be in the communities we serve, hearing directly from our constituents about the issues impact their families. I was grateful for the chance to meet with many of our neighbors and appreciated their input. Continue reading to learn more about my efforts on your behalf last week.
Learning from You: As we work to restore fiscal sanity and reduce reckless government spending, I'm proud to support President Trump's newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). I'm also a member of the Congressional DOGE Caucus, and together we are committed to cutting waste and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly. We can't keeping the can down the road and adding to a crippling debt that will hurt future generations. Last week, I hosted budget workshops to facilitate community conversations about federal spending. My goal was to promote fiscal responsibility and transparency. During my DOGE workshops in Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties, I received thoughtful input about the areas of the federal budget that constituents would like to see Congress cut. Thank you to the almost 600 neighbors who took the time to participate! I look forward to sharing your ideas with my colleagues. Click here to learn more about the discussion.
I also enjoyed attending the Starkey Cares Gala. This dedicated group of community leaders are raising funds to help address unmet needs throughout Pasco County.
It was great to give a legislative update at last week's Nature Coast Kiwanis Club. This is another group of compassionate citizens who give of their talents and time to strengthen our community.
I also had a productive discussion with Citrus County’s newest Commissioner, Janet Barek, to brainstorm ways we can work together to benefit our mutual constituents. Everyone wins when leaders at all levels work together to solve problems and I look forward to working with her and her fellow commissioners.
During my visit with members of the Citrus County Agriculture Alliance, I learned more about the needs of local farmers and promised to continue advocating on their behalf. One of the issues they raised was the difficulty many families have preserving farm land for future agricultural purposes as it passes from generation to generation due to the tax implications. In response to these concerns, I was proud to cosponsor the Death Tax Repeal Act. The death tax is an egregious double tax that unfairly targets American family farms and small businesses. We must Axe The Death Tax for good! Click here to learn more about our bill.
Community Connection
I am fortunate to have a team of dedicated staff who regularly attend events throughout our community, especially when I am required to be in Washington, DC. Through their collective efforts, I am better able to stay connected to the issues that matter most to my constituents. As part of my commitment to developing a better understanding of the issues facing constituents in Citrus, Hernando and Pasco counties, members of my team attended several events last week. Here are a few highlights.
My team spoke at a Citrus Veteran Service Organization about the services that we provide to Veterans and provided a brief legislative update on the work I am doing in Washington to help our nation's heroes.
My team also attended the dedication of a Habitat for Humanity home in Port Richey. Our hope is that the Wesley Family will be very comfortable in their new home.
Additionally, my team joined with other volunteers to make Valentines Day cards for local seniors in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. It was great to share a little joy in this season!
Constituent Corner
My team recently received this message after helping to resolve a problem she was having with a mail order pharmacy.
I just want to thank you for your quick response to my email. The situation has been resolved and I know I couldn’t have done it without your help. I’m truly grateful for all you do for us. Again , thank you!
This is just one example of the work we do each day. Constituent services are a critical element of our congressional office. The federal government is a massive operation, and my office is available if you ever need assistance in navigating the bureaucracy or cutting through red tape. We are here to serve you! |