Hi there,
With Thanksgiving around the corner, I found myself reflective this week upon the many blessings we have. I am especially grateful for my health, the love and support of my family, those who serve overseas, and the opportunity to serve you in the United States Senate.
Click here or the image below to learn more about an exciting project that will result in improved internet connections across rural West Virginia. And keep scrolling for more updates from this week.
Facebook in Southern West Virginia
On Monday, I joined representatives from Facebook and other state officials for a ceremonial groundbreaking for a major broadband project in southern West Virginia. The project is expected to result in an approximately 275-mile route in West Virginia, providing the state with enhanced fiber optic connectivity. As a result of the project, broadband providers will be able to expand middle-mile networks into communities along the route, and it will establish West Virginia as a preferred route for fiber backbone construction.
I’ve worked for more than a year to make this project a reality, including discussing the issue directly with Facebook Founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg during a Senate Commerce Committee hearing. Watch that exchange here or click on the video below.
Check out this Beckley Register-Herald story for more details on Facebook’s investment.
Lunch with President Trump
On Thursday, I was invited to lunch at the White House with a handful of other senators. Our meeting with President Trump and Vice President Pence focused primarily on several policy issues, including USMCA, trade with China, prescription drug prices, and ways we can continue improving our economy. I made it a point to speak directly with President Trump again about miners’ pensions and the importance of securing our southern border. Learn more my meeting with President Trump here or click on the video below:
Advocating for Our Miners
On Thursday, I took to the Senate floor to speak about the Bipartisan American Miners Act and the importance of passing this critical legislation soon. This is a top priority for me because it impacts so many mining families and communities throughout West Virginia. For thousands of West Virginia miners depending on these pension and health care plans, this bipartisan legislation is the answer. This is a permanent remedy for the pension and health care dilemma miners across Appalachia have unfairly had to face. Our miners worked for these pensions, and I’m committed to making sure we get this done. Click here or the image below to watch my full floor speech.
In Case You Missed It
Click through the links below to learn more about other highlights and Senate efforts from the week:
How Can We Help?
Whether you need help with a casework issue or have a question about scheduling a meeting at one of my offices, my staff and I are ready to assist you. Learn more about the services we offer at www.capito.senate.gov.
You can also submit your feedback and share your stories with me by visiting my “Share Your Stories” webpage here: www.capito.senate.gov/ShareYourStories.
Calling All Students!
My internship applications for spring 2020 are open! If you want a hands-on experience in public service, check it out! Applications are due December 6. More details on my website here: https://bit.ly/1Tpe563
Social Media Recap
Join me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for regular updates and photos.
Sincerely,
Shelley Moore Capito
United States Senator
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