Last weekend, I stayed in Washington to ensure a deal to reopen the federal government, and we succeeded on January 22. As the shutdown began, I authored a letter to the House of Representatives Chief Administrative Officer asking him to withhold my pay until the government reopens. I believe that if our troops and other government employees aren’t getting paid, Members of Congress shouldn’t receive pay.
I am happy that my colleagues and I were able to reach a deal so quickly. Our servicemen and women, elderly, children and the disabled all deserve their pay and benefits without having to worry that the government will be shut down indefinitely. The continuing resolution (CR) signed into law on January 22 will also ensure that the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is extended for the next six years. There are more than 170,000 children in Wisconsin who rely on CHIP and I am proud to have reached an agreement to keep our kids happy, healthy and safe.
My reason for coming to Washington is to work for the people of Wisconsin. Distractions, like a government shutdown, do not interest me. That is why I refused pay and worked overtime to fix it. We have so much more to accomplish this year and I am excited to get back to the work you sent me here to do.
|
