Hi Neighbors,
I hope you had a joyous and restorative Fourth of July. I spent last weekend surrounded by friends and family celebrating this one-of-a-kind country and reflecting on all we must do to protect the good that it stands for. Freedom is fragile, and as we navigate unprecedented challenges and address historic injustices, we must remember that our shared love for America transcends our political divisions. There is nothing more powerful than a house united!
Those core values – unity and patriotism – guide all of my work on behalf of Minnesota’s Third District. Last week, I had the opportunity to share my principles and my vision for a more united Congress with the Star Tribune. My mission is to inspire a new era of collaboration in Washington, and I hope that the spirit of Independence Day will inspire others to do the same.
Investing in Minnesota
Last week, the House of Representatives passed the INVEST in America Act, a transformational surface transportation and infrastructure package that would modernize our roads and bridges, strengthen our public transportation networks, and repair our crumbling water systems. After working with local leaders in our community, I was proud to secure $30.8 million to fund three MN-03 priority projects, including $20 million to jump-start construction on the Bottineau Light Rail that would connect our district to the heart of downtown Minneapolis. If we continue to collaborate and advocate, I am confident that we can move these important provisions through the Senate and to the President’s desk.
Americans expect their leaders to pursue common ground for the common good. Investing in 21st century infrastructure is a rare opportunity to bring more federal tax dollars back our state, create jobs, and build more sustainable, resilient communities. After years of obstruction and partisan brinkmanship, it’s time to stop slinging mud and start shoveling dirt.
And Investing More…
It was an outstanding week for advocates of safer, stronger Minnesota roads and bridges. Thanks to vocal leadership from myself, my colleagues in the Minnesota delegation, and a diverse coalition of county commissioners, mayors, Chambers of Commerce, and business leaders, the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded our state $60 million for the Interstate 494 Corridor that connects Eden Prairie, Edina, and Bloomington.
With this long-awaited funding, the I-494 project will make critical investments in safety improvements, traffic mitigation, and environmental protection, benefiting thousands of Minnesotans who travel the stretch of highway each day and local businesses who rely on the I-494 thoroughfare to move freight. I am honored to have worked with so many principled Minnesotans equally committed to the well-being of our state, and I look forward to continuing our partnership in the months to come.
What Our Country Needs
Last week, I solemnly – but proudly – voted to establish a special, bipartisan House committee to investigate the January 6 attack on our nation’s capitol. The committee will have 13 members, five of which will be appointed after consultation with Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy.
I was dismayed and disappointed when the Senate refused to consider an independent, 9/11-style commission to investigate the January 6 insurrection. And I was saddened to see so many of my House colleagues oppose our new bipartisan committee dedicated to that purpose. But, as someone who was in the House Chamber on January 6 and walked where blood was spilled and lives were lost, I know that we owe it to future generations to fully investigate the events of that dark day and to prevent history from ever repeating itself.
Keep the faith and keep in touch,
Dean Phillips
Member of Congress