Four years ago, a vicious attack in Tucson struck at a cornerstone of American democracy and killed 6 innocent people while injuring 13 others, including my dear friend and colleague, Gabby Giffords. In the aftermath, and after many other horrific shootings, we've struggled as a nation and accomplished far too little in the fight to enact comprehensive gun control measures. Read more »
Representing this culturally and geographically diverse community is an incredible honor and responsibility, and I reiterate to my constituents what I hope they already know, that I am here to serve them and to ensure that their voice is heard in Washington. Read more »
This is a momentous and moving day in Florida history. Today, we proudly turn the page on marriage discrimination and look toward a future that is more loving and closer to our ideals as a state. We're not going back. We're going forward. And I am so happy that my children are witnessing this chapter in our history and will grow up in a state where marriage is available for all loving couples. Read more »
I am deeply concerned and frankly quite frustrated that Palestinian officials have now formally submitted their bid to join the International Criminal Court. Unilateral and aggressive moves such as this do nothing to advance the cause of peace in the region. To the contrary, they exacerbate tensions and put a lasting, two-state solution even further out of reach. Read more »
Like the President, I too envision a bright future for the Cuban people where their basic human rights are respected and they can access information freely. While I have always been opposed to unearned changes in the status of our relationship with Cuba, I will continue to work with the Administration, my colleagues, and community activists to support policies that benefit the Cuban people and do not further entrench the Castro regime." Read more »
I am thrilled that Alan Gross is coming home today after five long, difficult years for him and his family. The Castro regime's detention of Alan put his health and life at unnecessary risk for shameful political purposes. I thank everyone who has worked tirelessly on his release, and I am particularly moved by the fact that Alan will be home to celebrate Chanukah and the New Year with his family. Read more »
WASHINGTON – The Breast Health Education and Awareness Requires Learning Young Act, or the EARLY Act, was reauthorized for five years today by the Senate by Unanimous Consent. H.R. 5185 was introduced by Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) and Rep. Renee Ellmers (R-N.C.) in the House and Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and David Vitter (R-LA). Read more »
Along with Jewish families across the country and the world, my family will gather tonight to light the first Chanukah candle. We will recall the great miracle that happened in Jerusalem more than two thousand years ago, and the power of a few against many. As we light another candle each night, we will think about the ways in which we, too, can be shining examples of hope and righteousness in the face of tumult and darkness. Read more »
As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I know that House and Senate appropriators worked hard on a spending package to fund our government for the rest of the fiscal year. As in any difficult compromise, the parties involved will find some items hard to accept, but I am proud of Democratic efforts to keep dozens of additional extreme GOP measures out of this bill. Faced with the alternative of a government shutdown and the reality of a Republican majority in the next Congress, I voted to ensure that the values of my constituents are more fully reflected in this budget that passed with Democratic input. Read more »
Through our action here today, we signify the determination of the American people to stand for freedom and democracy and this bill reinforces the sentiments and actions of the U.S. Congress and the Obama Administration. Along with my colleagues, I stand in solidarity with those brave Venezuelans continuing to advocate for their rights. I look forward to this measure's passage, and working with the Obama Administration and our allies to hold these perpetrators of injustice accountable for their crimes. Read more »
