Brad's Newsletter
Last week was a productive one legislatively in Washington. A provision I first introduced to help communities dealing with stranded nuclear waste passed both chambers of Congress, and is now awaiting the President's signature. Additionally, the House passed a bipartisan bill I helped introduce to elevate the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism, and the Judiciary Committee accepted an amendment I introduced to help veterans access patent protections for their intellectual property.
Seventeen years ago today, 19 attackers struck the heart of our nation, killing nearly 3,000 Americans. Every year, we pause to remember those who died in New York, Pennsylvania, and at the Pentagon, and to honor the brave first responders who selflessly rushed into danger to save others. And we reflect on the countless people who have served in the years since, in ways known and unknown, to protect our nation. We will never forget their sacrifice and will forever honor their memory.
Our nation lost a true American hero on Saturday when Senator John McCain passed away after a courageous fight against aggressive brain cancer. He brought to this last battle the same dignity and grace with which he lived his entire life, a life dedicated to service to his country and his fellow Americans. As a Prisoner of War in Vietnam, as a US Senator, as a candidate for President, he always put service to others before himself. We are a stronger nation because of his service, and he leaves behind a worthy legacy of courage, honor and devotion.
Our summer events series is continuing this week on Thursday as we hold a Consumer Protection event to help constituents identify and prevent scams targeting our communities. Then on Friday, I'm hosting an open house at our District Office – come by to share what's on your mind, meet our team, and learn more about the services our office can provide.
Next week, we're teeing up a Alzheimer's Awareness Information Panel, as well as a screening of a documentary about the opioid crisis. Learn more below and sign-up to attend some of these great upcoming events!
August is my favorite month of summer. The days are still long and there's an excitement in the air as kids get busy preparing for a new school year. Last week was also a busy week across the district, including hosting a job fair in Round Lake, a health care fair in Waukegan, and a "Commuter Town Hall" on the Pace Suburban Bus from Golf Mill Mall in Niles to Hawthorne Mall in Vernon Hills.
I've heard from many constituents concerned about the potential release of online blueprints that would allow individuals to use a 3D-printer to manufacture a firearm. While a court order has temporarily delayed the release, legislation is needed to ensure the threat of 3D printed guns does not become a reality for our communities. Last week, I partnered with three of my colleagues to introduce new legislation that would keep these plans off the internet.
As Congress prepared to recess until after Labor Day, things were busy last week in Washington. We had hearings in all three of my committees (Small Business, Judiciary and Foreign Affairs), meetings with constituents, a telephone town hall, and put the finishing touches on our August calendar.
It was another busy week at home, in Washington and around the world. First and foremost, I extend my thoughts to all those affected by the devastating apartment fire in Prospect Heights. I have been impressed, but certainly not surprised, by the incredible outpouring of support from throughout our community. From the more than 150 firefighters who battled the blaze, to the countless people from across the region who continue to lend a hand, we are grateful.
Like many of you, I closely followed President Trump's travel to Europe and meeting today with Russian President Vladimir Putin. I continue to be alarmed and astonished that President Trump is willing to forgive Russia's transgressions, while threatening our close NATO allies.
First, I want to reflect on the remarkable rescue of eight young soccer players from a flooded cave in Thailand. I continue to pray for those remaining trapped and for their rescuers. I also extend my sympathies to the family of the rescue diver who died in the process.