Congress
Terry Lierman has been a key part of the success of this office for over four and a half years,” said Hoyer. “When he came to our office, he brought unparalleled experience and a passion for helping people. I have worked closely with him for over 30 years to promote and support Democratic ideals, and I am pleased that he will continue to work with me by serving as the Treasurer of Hoyer for Congress and the Chair of AMERIPAC, my leadership PAC. I am very appreciative of all that Terry has done to assure the success of our efforts and look forward to working closely with him in the coming years.
I was pleased to learn that Paul Irving will be nominated to serve as the new Sergeant at Arms of the House of Representatives. He brings to the position a long and distinguished career with the U.S. Secret Service and a wealth of experience in federal law enforcement. I want to thank Bill Livingood once again for his service, and I look forward to working with his successor to ensure that the Capitol Police and the Office of the Sergeant at Arms have the resources they needs to protect the House, its members, staff, and visitors.
The Republican Leader and I may debate vigorously on many issues, but one area where we strongly agree is on making Congress more transparent and accessible. Recently, Congress took steps to open up the Capitol building, this Visitor’s Center, so citizens can meet with their Representatives and see the home of their legislature. In the same way, Congress is now taking steps to update how it connects with the American people online.
“America, and the principles for which it stands, have been well-served by Congressman Barney Frank during his over three decades of service in the Congress. He has brought an exceptional intellect, political courage, common sense, a wonderful wit, and a love of country and of the People’s House to his service. He will be greatly missed...
"It has been a honor to serve with my good friend Charlie Gonzalez for over a decade and I am saddened by his retirement. The U.S. Congress and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus will be losing a dedicated public servant who has been a leader on voting rights issues...
This year’s Floor schedule has prevented the House from getting anything done to create jobs and help Americans who are out of work, and next year’s schedule is more of the same. While Members appreciate having more time in their districts, the House has struggled to get even its most basic work done. We’ve conducted legislative business a mere 111 days this year - nearly equal to the 104 days spent either in recess or in pro forma business. And the schedule has been out of sync with the Senate, making it nearly impossible to coordinate. As a result, this Congress has seen only a small number of bills signed into law. I hope that next year, in spite of the lack of days in session, Republicans will put partisanship aside and work with us to address the challenges facing our nation and get Americans back to work.
I’m sad to learn that the House of Representatives will be losing a dedicated public servant at the end of this Congress. John Olver has been a tireless fighter for the people of Western Massachusetts since he was first elected to the House in 1991. Having served with him on the Appropriations Committee, I know he has always put the interests of his constituents first and has consistently fought for the most disadvantaged among us. I join in wishing him and his wife, Rose, well in whatever lies ahead.
“I have had the privilege of serving with Dennis Cardoza in Congress for eight years, and I have come to know him both as an effective advocate for the people of California’s 18th district and as a friend. From his studies at the University of Maryland and work running a small business to his time serving in California’s legislature, Dennis brought great experience to Congress that helped him quickly become a leader in the House on issues important to farmers and ranchers as well as on the home mortgage crisis that has hit California families hard...
Since Jerry Costello came to Congress in 1988, he has been a tireless advocate for the people of Southwestern Illinois. In his service on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee he has been a leader on aviation issues and has been a strong advocate for revitalizing roads, rails, and bridges in our communities, a proven method for creating jobs and bringing new economic opportunities. Having served with him for over twenty years, I have come to know him not only as a skilled legislator but also as a friend. When Jerry’s term comes to an end next year he will surely be missed, and I wish him all the best as he embarks on the next phase of his career.
I am saddened at the news that Congressman Kildee is going to retire, but I certainly understand his decision. Dale Kildee is a man of great integrity and faith. He has a deep concern for the people he represents, for those who are less fortunate, and for the principles and priorities that have made our country strong. He is a legislator who is both conscientious and faithful to his conscience. His work on education issues will have a positive and lasting effect in expanding opportunities for our nation’s children. America, the state of Michigan, and the people of the 5th district have been greatly advantaged by his service. I wish him the very best in the future, and he will be sorely missed in the 113th Congress.