Hi Neighbors,
From meeting with constituents to advocating for Minnesota small businesses to supporting accelerated COVID-19 vaccine distribution, it’s another busy week in Washington. Here’s what I’ve been up to:
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| I had a great meeting with Climate Generation about the importance of combatting climate change in the 117th Congress |
Saving Our Restaurants
Minnesota chefs got some love during the Super Bowl, but the COVID-19 pandemic is putting the survival of America’s 500,000 independent restaurants and their 11 million employees in jeopardy. As a new member of the House Small Business Committee, I helped lead my colleagues in calling for immediate support for restaurants, which are uniquely impacted by the pandemic. Restaurants are the heart of our communities, and a targeted grant program should be a top priority in our relief negotiations.
Accelerating Vaccine Distribution
We are living through one of the worst public health emergencies and economic downturns in American history. As Vice Chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus (PSC), I helped lead our 58 members in calling for an immediate vote on a $160 billion “Defeating COVID-19” vaccine distribution package. This proposal includes new federal investment in the national distribution and administration of the COVID-19 vaccine and supports expanded testing programs, PPE purchases, and other initiatives needed to beat this virus.
Last year, we proved that thoughtful Democrats and Republicans can come together to deliver bipartisan solutions. We can and will continue that work, but the COVID-19 virus won’t wait for us to compromise. A well-funded, better coordinated federal vaccine distribution program will save lives and livelihoods if we act now. This is a crisis, and we must urgently meet the moment as the more complete package moves through Congress and to the President’s desk.
Appealing to Our Better Angels
| The January 6th insurrection affirmed that the greatest threat to America is ourselves – and the path to peace is through justice. For all. |
Last week I spoke on the floor of the House and shared reflections about the January 6th insurrection, a lightning bolt moment, and an apology many years in the making. That day changed me forever – and for the better. I ask that, if that day changed you as well, I hope that you will not allow it to change you for the worse. Instead, I hope that together we might find something from that day to improve yourself, to improve our country, and to improve our world.
Honoring Rep. Jim Ramstad
n that same spirit, I joined Senator Amy Klobuchar in reintroducing legislation to rename the Wayzata post office after former Congressman Jim Ramstad. Jim Ramstad served the people of Minnesota’s Third District – first as a citizen, then as a state Senator, then as a U.S. Congressman – for three decades. I remain humbled to serve the very same community as he once did, and continue to look to his example for inspiration. Renaming Jim’s hometown post office in his honor is a small gesture, but one I hope will add to the growing symphony of affection for the man who left a remarkable legacy in our community, our state, and our country.
Keep the faith and keep in touch, 
Dean Phillips
Member of Congress