Hi Friends,
I’m dropping a line before my town hall meeting tomorrow to tell you a little more about my week. Here are the highlights…
LEADING ON CLIMATE ACTION
On Thursday, I helped to introduce the 100% Clean Economy Act of 2019 as an original co-sponsor. This science-based legislation sets a nationwide goal of achieving a 100% clean energy economy by 2050, an urgent deadline to avoid the most disastrous effects of climate change as outlined by the Fourth National Climate Assessment, the 2018 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPPC), and the Paris Climate Accords. The bill, which already has the support of more than 150 members of Congress, directs all federal agencies to immediately use their existing authorities to put the United States on a path towards a 100% clean energy economy, defined as net-zero climate pollution across all sectors. We must swiftly and justly transition to a clean energy economy that benefits all communities, creates good-paying jobs, and is in line with what the science demands, and this important legislation sets us on the right path.
CALLING FOR INNOVATION IN CONGRESS
I also had the opportunity to testify in front of the House Committee on Administration about why we must take every opportunity today to improve the House of Representatives for tomorrow. Sometimes it seems like Congress was designed to make collaboration and innovation difficult. That’s why I believe the technology, processes, and spaces in the House must be updated to inspire teamwork, keep up with innovations of the 21st century, and better serve the American people.
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| Click here to watch my full testimony about pushing Congress into the 21st century |
RESPONSIBLE OVERSIGHT
Speaking of Congress, it was an important week for the Constitution. I attended the historic public hearings in Washington, and as a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I’ve also attended several secure depositions. The process has been principled. I want you to know that Democrats and Republicans have access to the same information, the same witnesses, and members from both parties have been allowed to participate fully. We live in an era where too many people just read the headlines and not the articles – it is my responsibility to bear witness with my own eyes, to honor my oath to the Constitution, and to pursue the truth, no matter where it leads.
KICKING OFF A THANKFUL WEEK
I’m back in Minnesota for Thanksgiving and one of my first stops was to visit a kindergarten classroom at Success Academy in Bloomington this morning. Whether it’s the high schoolers who visit my office in Washington, or smiling kids in classrooms in Minnesota, nothing makes me happier than a conversation with the next generation of leaders. I encourage you to take some inspiration from these extraordinary kids about respect, inclusiveness, and the joy of learning.
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| Click here for more photos of my visit to Success Academy today |
I’m looking forward hearing questions and ideas from Minnesotans at my town hall meeting in Brooklyn Park tomorrow. I hope you can make it, and I challenge you to bring a family member, friend or neighbor who is new to the conversation!
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| Click here to sign in early and get all the details on tomorrow’s town hall |
Keep the faith and keep in touch,
Dean Phillips
Member of Congress