Sixth District Perspectives
with Congressman Ben Cline

     It was great to be back home in the Valley this week and provide folks with an update on what’s been happening in Washington. As I traveled around, I consistently heard story after story of how the current economic situation has negatively impacted people’s lives. Higher prices for food, gas, energy, and nearly everything else have stressed paychecks to the breaking point, and still the Biden Administration seems content to double down on failed economic policies that have led to this calamity. Additionally, as we enter the spring and summer travel seasons, I wanted to let folks know that my office can help in dealing with passport services through the State Department. Finally, I continued my "Coffee With Your Congressman" town hall tour in Botetourt County, and presented a Bronze Star to a late Veteran’s family. In returning to Washington next week, House Republicans will continue to deliver on our Commitment to America. 

So Much for the "Inflation Reduction Act"

     This week, the American people were sadly reminded that the so-called “Inflation Reduction Act” was a failure in name and in policy -- and the last thing the America people needed. Inflation rose 6% from a year ago, yet another reflection of the failed policies and the multi-trillion-dollar deficit spending agenda of the Biden Administration.

X Bread costs 15.8% more

X Eggs cost 55.4% more

X Chicken costs 8.8% more

X Butter costs 20.7% more

X Electricity costs 12.9% more 

     The Biden Administration has inflicted serious damage to the American economy, causing 15 consecutive months of 40-year high inflation. Meanwhile, the President proposed a bloated $6.9 trillion budget that doubles down on the same failed policies that put America on the brink of fiscal ruin. Rest assured, House Republicans are committed to finding sensible, reasonable, and responsible solutions to this inflation crisis, and getting our country’s finances in order so that the promise of the American dream stays intact for current and future generations.

Joining Fox Across America

     This week I joined Jimmy Failla on Fox Across America on Fox News Radio, where we discussed Biden's bloated and inflationary budget proposal, as well as Biden’s latest executive order to increase background checks on Americans seeking to purchase a firearm. Hear the full segment here.

Casework Highlight: Department of State: U.S. Passports

     Since early February, Passport Services' processing times have risen due to a seasonal increase in applications. Processing times can be 8-11 weeks for routine processing and 5-7 weeks for expedited processing. These times do not include mail delivery service estimates.  

     Does your family have plans to travel out of the country this summer and need passport assistance? My office is here to help. For general questions, please visit the Department of State’s website for more information. If you need help securing your passport, or expediting its renewal or processing in emergency circumstances, please call any of my district offices listed below and on my website at Cline.House.Gov.  

"Coffee With Your Congressman" Town Halls Continued

     As always, I enjoyed another great “Coffee with Your Congressman” town hall event in Botetourt County -- my eight one this year. It was a pleasure engaging in conversation, meeting new folks, and hearing the issues most important to them and their families. Sincere thanks to all who came out. Stay tuned for an event coming near you.

A Grateful Nation Recognizes Military Service 

     One of my greatest gifts in serving as your Congressman is the opportunity I have to present medals my office has obtained to the individual or family member who earned these awards through service to their country. Therefore, it was an honor to present medals to Dorothy Dean in commemoration of the honorable service of her late husband, Gary Dean (U.S. Army 1955-73). Along with earning a Bronze Star, Dean was also awarded campaign medals for his service in both the Korean and Vietnam wars. Upon his exit from the Armed Services, Dean continued serving his community in local law enforcement.   

VA-06 Business Tour and Government Students Assembly

dun& bradstreet has been a leading global provider of business decision data and analytics for nearly 200 years, and I was pleased to visit the Novozymes Biologicals, Inc. plant in Salem that focuses on pharmaceutical and medicine innovation and manufacturing.

   I was pleased to speak with government students at Salem High School about the legislative process and encourage them to become engaged in civic affairs. I found their questions and insights informative and refreshing. 

     Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your Congressman. If my office can ever be of assistance, please contact my Washington office at (202) 225-5431. 

     For the latest updates from Washington and across the Sixth District, please follow my Facebook and Twitter pages.