As Congress works to wrap up its work for this year and prepares for Republican control of the House and Senate next year, you can guarantee there will be new and refreshed leadership on many of the issues folks are most concerned about.

Over the past several years, so many important pieces of legislation that would have helped hard-working families just collected dust in the Senate, such as H.R. 3, the Northern Route Approval Act, which would approve construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline

Soon, it’s going to be time for conservatives to work to make things happen on issues folks care about. As I made my way across East Alabama late this fall, I kept hearing the same concerns:  for example, folks are worried about Obamacare and how it will affect their small businesses and their families.

I also heard a lot of folks ask about immigration reform. People are concerned that not enough good-paying jobs are being created.

Many folks are also uncertain about America’s leadership around the world, including how the terrorist group known as the Islamic State or ISIL continues to threaten Americans and our allies. I also hear ongoing concerns about the constant threats toward Israel, one of our strongest allies.

These issues, like so many others that weigh on the minds of folks across the Third District, have only been made worse by the lack of leadership.

I don’t blame them for worrying one bit, but I am optimistic about our future.

With renewed opportunities to bring about real change and a stronger than ever desire from Americans for a leaner, more efficient and effective Federal government, I plan to continue to fight for the interests of East Alabamians – all East Alabamians, even if we don’t agree, just as I always have.

Earlier this month on November 11th, we honored our nation’s brave men and women who have served our country in uniform.  Veterans Day is an example of what makes this country great – supporting and working on behalf of the Veterans across East Alabama is something we all believe in. We all want to ensure our Veterans receive the care they need and deserve.

Making sure our Veterans receive that care, like so many of these other concerns, is about leadership. That’s what’s been lacking from the very top in Washington. And that’s why our Constitution guarantees our right to vote, so Americans can make their voices heard.

America is the greatest country on earth and we are lucky to be its citizens. I am deeply grateful for the honor to continue to fight for your interests, and look forward as always to hearing from you.

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