Congresswoman Lee Sworn in As Member of Democratic Leadership in the 116th Congress
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Barbara Lee released the following statement after being sworn in to represent California’s 13th Congressional District in the 116th Congress:
“It is a profound honor to be sworn in as a member of Democratic leadership in the 116th Congress. This is the most diverse and dynamic Congress in American history, and it is a privilege to serve alongside so many dedicated public servants. I am grateful for the trust that my constituents have placed in me to represent them and fight for progressive values in Washington.
“In our new Democratic majority, I am eager to hit the ground running to enact policies that work for the people, including raising wages, lowering health care costs, and cleaning up the corruption in Washington. In addition, I am committed to advancing progressive priorities including rebuilding our infrastructure, addressing the crisis of climate change, funding debt-free college, and re-establishing congressional oversight on matters of war and peace.
“While I strongly disagree with the inclusion of PAYGO in the Democratic rules package, I am pleased that the rules package contains many provisions to make Congress more transparent, inclusive, and responsive to the will of the people. I will continue to work with the Progressive Caucus to end PAYGO in the underlying statute and advance forward-looking legislation that empowers the American people.
“It is fitting that, for the first vote of the new Democratic majority, we will cast our ballots to reopen the federal government. The 116th Congress will work for the people – not for billionaires or special interests.”
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