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Dear Neighbor,
After spending several weeks in the district gathering constituent input, I returned to DC last week determined to push for measures that will lead to economic relief for all Americans. Unfortunately, the House Democrat leadership appears determined to continue down the same path of higher taxes and more government spending which has created our current crisis. I understand how important this issue is to many in our community, and I will keep fighting. I was saddened to see the new report on inflation indicating that inflationary pressures remain higher than economists projected, at 8.3%. Even more troubling are new reports showing that families are now paying more than ever for basic necessities like rent and utilities, including a 13.5% hike in food prices compared to last year. This is the largest one-year jump since 1979. And, a recent survey indicates that at least 40 percent of American domestic workers were unable to make their rent or mortgage payments last month with more than ¾ of Americans report being unsure if they would be able to afford food in the next two weeks.
These alarming survey results align with the dire feedback I received from many neighbors during my August listening sessions. Americans are hurting and need Washington to stop the reckless spending that is fueling their pain! Instead of acknowledging the damage being caused by their massive spending and taking commonsense measures to reverse the pain Americans are experiencing, President Biden and Congressional Democrats held a party at the White House last week to celebrate recent passage of their "Inflation Reduction Act." Despite its misleading name, the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) confirms that the new law will do nothing to address inflation and could actually lead to increased inflation in 2023. However, the new law does raise taxes on Middle Class Americans and small businesses, which will only compound the pain. Be assured that I will continue to fight back on this important issue. Continue reading to learn about my work on your behalf last week!
Restoring American Energy Independence
Spain has become the latest European country to ration energy use. This should be alarming to every American since the policies supported by President Biden and Congressional Democrats seek to replicate the failing European energy model. Our energy problems are the direct result of this Administration’s anti-energy policies. As noted in this article, the Biden Administration has leased fewer acres for oil and gas drilling offshore and on federal land than any other administration in its early stages dating back to the end of World War II. The CBO has also recently confirmed that the new natural gas tax pass passed by Democrats will lead to even higher energy prices for all Americans. In his pursuit of radical environmental goals, President Biden is hurting American consumers. The answer to our energy crisis is to restore American energy independence.
Protecting Your Privacy
Americans deserve for Congress to finally deliver on the promise of national data privacy protections, especially when it comes to the information Big Tech has been collecting on our children. I’ve led bipartisan legislation in the House to accomplish these goals, however, Speaker Pelosi is now raising objections because some in her home state of California object to the bill. We have come too far on this important bill to let it be derailed by California special interests.
Empowering Parents
The Big Tech Task Force, which I help lead, is working to hold social media platforms accountable for doing a better job protecting child users and empowering parents with the tools they need to make informed decisions. Click here to learn more about our proposal.
Also, new national test scores prove the pandemic and prolonged lock downs in some states had a harmful impact on children’s learning. It is important that we ensure children and parents have the resources needed to make gains again.
Modernizing our Communication Infrastructure
Technology has changed rapidly over the course of the past two decades, however, our nation’s policies governing our telecommunications infrastructure remain stuck in the past. Click here to learn more about the work I am doing to modernize the nation’s telecommunications policies.
Raising Awareness
If piling on to the national debt wasn’t enough, we’re now seeing more consequences to President Biden’s reckless student loan debt transfer plan. Click here to read a warning by the FTC about the newest scams targeting borrowers.
Demanding Transparency
Big Tech continues to censor conservative voices, even comedic ones, under the guise of protecting the community from harm. In reality, it is engaged in protecting its political allies from criticism and hindering free speech. My colleagues and I are demanding accountability and transparency.
Celebrating Success
According to U.S. News, Florida is the top state in the nation for students to pursue higher education. I appreciate our Governor and Florida Legislature’s leadership in strengthening quality while keeping the cost of public universities and colleges affordable.
Also, congratulations to Billy Brown, CEO of Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative, on receiving a well-deserved honor from the Pasco Economic Development Council for his lifetime of service to our community.
Constituent Corner
My office recently received the following message from a constituent.
I want to compliment Joanne in your New Port Richey office. I stopped into your office last month seeking help with several problems. She was very kind and patient with me. She was also very knowledgeable about who I could contact to resolve each of my concerns. And, she was able to help me get copies of my husband's military service records, which I need to apply for his VA benefits. I am so grateful for all her help. You are very fortunate to have such a remarkable young woman working for you!
This is just one example of the work we do each day. Constituent services are a critical element of our congressional office. The federal government is a massive operation, and my office is available if you ever need assistance in navigating the bureaucracy or cutting through red tape. We are here to serve you! |
