Friend,
Last week I flew to our nation's capital to vote on additional funding for PPP, hospitals and COVID-19 testing – all critical items that need to be adequately funded during this pandemic.
Earlier in the week, however, it looked like Speaker Pelosi was going to put a partisan bill on the floor that would allow proxy voting.
Let me be clear, I was elected to serve Kansas and it is an honor to represent my neighbors, friends and fellow Kansans in Washington. I feel that it is my responsibility to vote, just like countless other Americans are continuing to show up even in the face of adversity. And that's why I've continued to have briefings with federal agencies, virtual meetings with Kansans and phone conferences with elected officials. I'm committed to doing the work of the people of Kansas, just like you are committed to doing what's right for your family and your community.
Perhaps you stock shelves at a grocery store, ensuring that all of us can continue purchasing needed items. Or a medical professional on the front lines of this pandemic. Maybe you are a mother who is teaching your children at home since school buildings are closed. Or you are taking the responsibility of social distancing seriously and protecting your friends and family.
Like you, I take personal responsibility in my life and in my work.
While the proxy voting legislation didn't make it to the floor, the fact that we were so seriously close to voting on it is alarming. Had it made it to the House floor, I would have voted no, because serving the U.S. House of Representatives is a great responsibility – it's not something to pass off to someone else.
Times are challenging, but millions of Americans continue showing grit and determination. The least our Representatives can do is show up to vote.
Sincerely,
Rep. Ron Estes
SURVEY QUESTION:
Do you think proxy voting should not be an option for members of the House of Representatives?
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