Email Newsletter
Statement
Dear Neighbor:
This month marked a historic moment for Congress, as the 112th Congress was sworn into office and Republicans gained control as the Majority.
Last September, I joined my House Republican colleagues in introducing the Pledge to America, a governing blueprint that outlined how the new majority intended to translate ideas and principles into action. One of the proposals in the Pledge, that the House Rules now include, requires that legislation introduced in Congress be accompanied by a statement of Constitutional authority.
The Constitution grants the federal government a limited role in the lives of America's citizens and specifically protects states rights. However, for too long, Congress has ignored the proper limits imposed by the Constitution on the federal government. Failing to use the Constitution as the guiding government document has been detrimental to the legislative process and to the freedoms and rights of American citizens.
Last November, the American people sent a message to Washington: they are tired of Congress blatantly ignoring the will of the people. According to the 112th Congress' House Rules adopted this month, every Member of Congress is required to cite the authority granted under the U.S. Constitution for any bill they introduce. Every bill considered by the House should be judged against the small-government principles enshrined in the Constitution.
In addition, and as a demonstration of our commitment to the U.S. Constitution, the House leadership kicked off the second day of the 112th Congress by reading the Constitution on the House floor in its entirety -- an unprecedented event which gave members of both parties the opportunity to participate.
I am proud to serve as a member of the 112th Congress and as stated in my oath, will uphold the Constitution of the United States as I represent the people of the 44th District of California. I welcome your thoughts on this issue, so please take this quick survey and let me know your opinion.
Sincerely,
KEN CALVERT
Member of Congress
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