This Week in Washington 2/13/15

Statement

THE DAVIS DOCKET

"I remain committed to serve the 7th District of Illinois in this new Congress"

Top issues of the week

Keystone XL Pipeline

Immigration Reform and DHS funding

Affordable Care Act

Click here for my voting records

Dear 7thDistrict Constituent,

As we enter the month of February, there are many reasons for us to be optimistic. The President has laid out his Budget Proposal that stresses the importance of middle class economics that will address the livelihood of many Americans. February is also the month we commemorate the history and great achievements of African Americans. It shows that we have come a long way as a nation and it is crucial, while moving forward, that we do not forget to appreciate what we have succeeded.

This week in Washington…

Earlier this week, the Members of Congressional Black Caucus, including myself, had a meeting with the President, to discuss our interests on various legislative agendas. Moreover, I participated actively in the Committee Ways & Means to protect your interests with regard to charitable tax breaks and work colleges. I introduced amendments that will ensure that our young people have access to higher education. Moreover, to commemorate the Black History Month, I led a Town Hall Forum at Howard University to address the State of African American Male. The event was a success and overwhelmingly attended by students as well as the public.

Education is Key

In January, the President outlined his vision to improve our nation
and lives of all Americans in his State of the Union address. I can
only agree with him that we can not put security of American families
at risk by jeopardizing their access to healthcare, education, or occupation.
It is here in Washington where I have been working tirelessly on legislations
that will advance the access to higher education for young people as well
as supporting young families. Like the President, I believe we have to
do more for the people by investing in their education, as this will open
the door of opportunities for them and for our future as a nation

I advocate fiscal responsibility. At the same time, I cannot accept policies
that will only adhere to the requests of influential corporations and neglect
the needs of many poor and needy Americans. Recently, the majority party
has taken up the agenda to authorize many tax breaks that only add to the
deficits of our nation and lack of long-term benefits for hardworking Americans.
I will stand strongly with my democratic colleagues to ensure that we speak on
your behalf.

One important issue Congress is to approve the funding of the Department of
Homeland Security which is due on February 27. My democratic colleagues
convey the message to the other side of the aisle that the funding of a government
agency is and never should be a partisan issue or political ball game. The reluctance
of the majority party in Congress to pass a clean bill to fund DHS only jeopardizes
the security of millions of Americans. I would like to reassure you that I am following
the development closely and I will do everything in my capacity to protect your best interest.

Congress will be in recess for the week of Presidents' day and I will dedicate my time to our District. I believe in that a problem shared is a problem halved. Our communities will need all your helping hands, reach out, help caring for each other, and we can create a better place for all. Happy Valentine's Day.

As your representative, I very much appreciate your calls, emails and feedback. Your comments are important and valuable to help me improving our District. I am more than happy to hear more of your ideas on what we can do.

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