Brad's Newsletter

This week, Congress is back in full swing working on the Build Back Better Act and continuing infrastructure negotiations, among other priorities. The Build Back Better Act is an unprecedented investment in America's fight against global climate change, invests in the competitiveness of American workers and businesses, enhances support for American families, and most importantly, lifts 3.6 million American children out of poverty.

I hope you and your families had a restful and enjoyable Labor Day weekend, and for those observing the holiday, a meaningful Rosh Hashanah.

With the week shortened by the holidays, I am not sending a full newsletter. Instead I wanted to focus on marking and remembering the the heinous attack on our nation twenty years ago tomorrow.

Thanks to everyone who participated in one of our many August events, programs or our over 70 constituent meetings who made it a truly remarkable month at home. Among the highlights, it was wonderful to hear from neighbors at one of four town halls about the issues they care about most. I enjoyed speaking with businesses large and small about how the pandemic was affecting them, and how the assistance passed by Congress was making a real difference.

I am writing this week's newsletter from my desk in Washington, having just returned to the office after voting to pass H.R. 4, The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. You may have heard me share that my office office was previously occupied by my colleague and American Hero of voting rights -- the late, great John Lewis. I feel a special responsibility to honor his legacy and ensure that every eligible citizen is able to confidently and safely cast their vote. We took an important step towards that vision today. (More on that below.)

I will be honest with you: With some of the things happening around the world this week, I've struggled tying off this newsletter issue to send to you. From the unfolding crisis in Afghanistan to the earthquake in Haiti and then yesterday's bomb scare at the Capitol, it's been hard to find the right words, or even the right tone. I hope you will forgive the late delivery of this week's update.

Dorothy was right: "There's no place like home." It was so good to be home and working in the district last week and I am looking forward to many more events throughout the month of August.

It's finally August, which means I will be working here in the district all month. I am excited to be home and looking forward to seeing people across our different communities. Over the next several weeks, I am sitting down with our local mayors and village presidents to better understand the specific issues they are focused on. I will be visiting local business and various social and civic service groups as well. And of course, with the new school year starting, I and excited to talk with students of all ages.

Better late than never, and hopefully well worth the wait, the 2020 Olympics are finally happening! These Games will likely always be remembered as the Pandemic Olympics with the year's long delay, empty stadiums and the images of too many athletes missing their chance to compete after testing positive for COVID-19. But beyond the hardships, we should focus on the stories of sportsmanship, the near superhuman discipline and perseverance and the competitors, and the honor of every athlete competing their hearts out on behalf of their country.