Brad's Newsletter
It's the home stretch of the holiday season and, if you are like me, I suspect you are rushing to wrap up many projects before 2021 ends. Besides working on the debt limit, the 2022 defense bill, and hopefully the Build Back Better Act, I am excited to send out our annual holiday card.
Winter has clearly arrived, but at least we can all enjoy the holidays. First, I hope those who celebrated Hanukkah had a nice time with family and friends. I am looking forward to hopefully seeing many more of you at holiday gatherings in the weeks ahead. My prayer for this holiday season is that the spirit of the season brings us all together in health, happiness and peace.
With the holiday season officially upon us, I wish you and your loved ones a Happy Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is a uniquely American tradition that brings everyone together to celebrate the blessings and opportunities we have in this nation.
By now you probably know that on Friday night, at 11:24 pm to be more precise, Congress passed the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, a once-in-a-generation investment to rebuild, and in many ways, reimagine, our nation's base infrastructure.
The big news last week was the announcement of a compromise agreement between the House, Senate and Administration on a $1.75 billion national investment in our young people, our seniors and our communities. The agreed-to framework will be the largest investment ever in addressing climate change, and continues our efforts to ensure every American has quality, affordable healthcare.
Congratulations to the Chicago Sky for winning their first ever WNBA title!
Last week ended on a high note with the Sox, Sky and Bears all winning. Of course, the baseball season in Chicago came to an end on Tuesday but, as we know too well, there's always next year. Meanwhile, the Sky are tied in the WNBA Finals with the series now in Chicago for games Friday and Sunday. And it looks like Justin Fields is starting for the Bears on Sunday.
Before I get to the business of government, let me first wish both the Chicago Sky and the Chicago White Sox success in the playoffs! In case you missed it, last night the Sky defeated the Connecticut Sun to advance to the WNBA Finals for the first time. And this afternoon the White Sox will meet the Houston Astros in the MLB Divisional Playoffs.
The entire nation is looking to Congress as several critical pieces of legislation work their way through the House and Senate this week. Last week the House passed a bill to both prevent a government shut down on October 1 and ensure the U.S. won't default on our past obligations two weeks later. The Senate must now act with similar urgency.
It's now officially fall! Our first fall weekend brought beautiful weather and also quite a few local events around the district. I hope you had a chance to get out and enjoy some of what our communities have to offer.