Press Release

“The jobs report for June reaffirms that our economic recovery is continuing to move forward, even while manufacturers and other businesses still face uncertainty resulting from a lack of clear fiscal and job-growth policies set by Congress and as a consequence of the irrational sequester

"I was deeply saddened to learn of former Rep. William Gray's sudden passing. Bill was a dear friend and a trailblazer as the first African American Majority Whip.

“I’m pleased to announce that today marks the beginning of House Democrats’ fourth annual Online All-Star Competition, which encourages Members of the Democratic Caucus to strengthen online engagement with our constituents.

“As Co-Chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, I was deeply saddened to learn of the loss of nineteen courageous firefighters who rushed into harm’s way to protect their community from a devastating wildfire near Yarnell, Arizona.

“It is extremely disappointing that Congress has failed to act to keep student loan interest rates low.  It was no surprise that rates would double today from 3.4% to 6.8%, but partisan dysfunction in Congress continues to stand in the way of solving even the most predictable and easily preventable problems facing our country. 

“Today marks the 100^th day since the Senate passed its budget resolution, providing Speaker Boehner with the opportunity to follow regular order and appoint House Republican conferees to begin negotiations on a final version of the budget for FY2014. 

“I am encouraged that our manufacturing sector grew in June, but the uncertainty manufacturers continue to face as a result of the irrational sequester and Congress’s failure to achieve a big, balanced solution to deficits still hampers their ability to invest, expand, and create jobs.

“One year ago today, the Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, which will make quality, affordable health care accessible to millions of Americans.