Hi Neighbor–

The turkey is brining, the pies are baking, the beans are trimmed, and the kids are doing chores to prepare for guests. As we prepare to pause and give thanks, I wanted to take a minute to jot down the top 10 things I’m most thankful for this year as your representative.

#1: My Team


Every day, Team Scholten serves the people in West Michigan with unmatched excellence. Whether it is doing challenging legislative work in D.C., serving our constituents back home in the district, or working hard to prepare our town halls and communicate what we’re up to, this team is the reason we can deliver so well for all of you, and I’m so grateful. 

#2: Serving Those Who Served


We’re the home of the free because of the brave. I’m so grateful to all those who served our country, now living in MI-03. It’s the honor of my lifetime not just to thank you, but to serve you.

#3: A Cleaner, Greener West Michigan


As the first mom to serve West Michigan in Congress and a *relatively* young member of Congress myself (I can hear my kids snickering at the thought of their mom being *YOUNG*), creating a sustainable environment where all can thrive is a top priority for me. I’m so grateful to have been able to deliver over 10 million dollars to the district to help plant trees and make sure our public transit meets its low/now emissions standards.

#4: The Promise of the Next Generation


I’ve spent HOURS visiting schools in my first year in office. I can tell you, I'm incredibly grateful for the next generation of West Michiganders. Our best days are still ahead with these young scholars!

#5: A Growing West Michigan Small Business Economy


I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve on the House Small Business Committee. I’ve visited DOZENS of small businesses since I've been elected, started a Small Business Advisory Board comprised of local business leaders and entrepreneurs, and it’s not an exaggeration to say–THEY are what makes West Michigan so unique and so special–make sure you support a small business this holiday season!

#6: Breaking Barriers

It is the honor of my lifetime to be the first woman and mother in history to serve West Michigan in Congress. Thank you for choosing me. Thank you for trusting me.

#7: Transportation & Infrastructure 

Serving on the T&I Committee was a top choice for me when I was elected. I’m humbled to have been chosen to fill one of a few select seats. From building up our airports, to improving our water lines, I’m helping build something that will last here in West Michigan.

#8: Healthcare Heroes


West Michigan is a growing hub of health innovation, and I am so proud to support Michigan’s universities and health leaders in this work. Whether it’s researching groundbreaking new treatments to improve patient outcomes or teaching the next generation of medical leaders, our community is well on its way to leading the nation in the healthcare space.

#9: The Boring Stuff

These days in Congress, things seem out of control and you’re only relevant if you’re going viral on Twitter. I have a different view of service, and I often joke around Congress that “I’m bringing boring back” (many times sung to a similarly named, but very different, song by Justin Timberlake). In the hours and hours when the cameras aren’t rolling, and we’re not taking another controversial vote for Speaker, I'm hard at work in committees, visiting businesses in the district, listening to constituents and serving you. This is what matters. 

#10: All of YOU


I saved the best for last. I’m so grateful to each and every one of you who engages with our office. The future of our democracy depends on engaged constituents and responsive representatives. I can’t serve you, without hearing from you–thanks for reading and engaging.

As always, it’s an honor to serve you, West Michigan. Wishing you and your loved ones a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!

Sincerely,

Hillary Scholten
Member of Congress