Sixth District Perspectives
with Congressman Ben Cline

      As we gathered with family and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving, we reflected on the abundance of blessings that God has bestowed upon us and remember those this season who are less fortunate. Additionally, we were grateful that some of the hostages being held captive by Hamas terrorists are being released and reaffirmed our support for Israel in this war. We also celebrated America's small businesses and awarded a Vietnam War Veteran in Harrisonburg with a well-deserved Purple Heart. With Congress set to return this week and continue the appropriations process, I will continue fighting to rein in out-of-control government spending that has wreaked havoc on our economy for far too long.

Giving Thanks

    For many Americans, Thanksgiving is a favorite holiday - full of good food and family and loved ones around the table. But it is also a time to remember that, despite the hardships we may often face in our lives, we are so fortunate to wake each morning in the greatest country in the world. 

      Each and every day, I give God thanks for my family and friends, our brave servicemembers, our Veterans, the freedoms we hold so dear, and the opportunity to serve the people of Virginia's Sixth District in the People's House. It is truly the greatest honor of a lifetime.

Hamas’ War on Israel: Agreement to Release 50 Hostages Reached

      This past week, Israel agreed to a deal to free 50 women and children being held hostage by Hamas, and we are glad these people will be coming home. In exchange for the release of these hostages, there is now a multi-day pause in fighting. However, America’s unwavering support for Israel and its right to defend itself in this war doesn’t stop. Every hostage needs to be released and Hamas must be defeated.

Supporting America's Small Businesses

      As we celebrated Small Business Saturday, we are also reminded that Big Government must not hinder but promote economic growth, especially for small businesses - the engine that drives the economy of our local communities. Unfortunately, Washington bureaucrats continue to impose new costly and unnecessary regulations that only make it harder for America's small business owners to thrive. 

      That is why earlier this year, I introduced the Small Business Regulatory Flexibility Improvements Act to ensure that federal agencies consider the actual economic impact that new rules might have on small businesses, rather than impose one-size-fits-all mandates. I will keep working to support our small businesses and ensure they can succeed.

District Travels

 Over 50 years ago, while serving in Vietnam, U.S. Army Sergeant John C. Rakes was struck by enemy sniper fire and was wounded in the left knee. It was a privilege to award Sergeant Rakes with his long overdue recognition, the Purple Heart Medal, after waiting 53 years and thank him for his service. Read more about how my team helped Sergeant Rakes receive his Purple Heart Medal in WHSV here.

I was honored to recognize members of the Berryville Police Department, the Winchester Police Department, the Clarke County Sheriff's Office, the Frederick County Sheriff's Office, and the Mount Weather Security Force for their service to our communities at the Horseshoe Curve Benevolent Association event in Clarke County.

Since 1973, Martha's Meals on Wheels has selflessly served thousands of Staunton residents in need. I was pleased to present the founder, Martha Wilkerson, with a plaque in honor of the organization's 50th anniversary.

I enjoyed speaking with Government students at James Wood High School in Winchester recently about the functions of Congress and the importance of civic service.

     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. 

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