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December 21, 2007
At the end of November, I had the opportunity to travel with several of my colleagues in the House of Representatives and Senate to India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. During our travels, we met with leaders from each country – including Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf. We had the unique opportunity to meet with President Musharraf on the day after he stepped down as leader of the Pakistani military and assumed a completely civilian leadership role.
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December 05, 2007
As we enter December, the final month of the first session of the 110th Congress is upon us. Deadlines are fast approaching on several important issues that must be addressed. Perhaps the most pressing of these are the 11 appropriations bills that have yet to be signed into law.
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November 22, 2007
Today, Americans all across this great nation will join with family and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving. As we enjoy the warmth and comfort of our loved ones, we are reminded of how blessed our nation is for the many opportunities it provides.
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November 06, 2007
Throughout October, Congress has engaged in an ongoing debate regarding reauthorization of the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). This bipartisan program was created in 1997 by a Republican Congress and a Democrat-led Administration. Their intent was to provide children from low-income families with health insurance. This program was narrowly tailored to assist children who are not eligible for Medicaid and cannot afford private insurance. Despite our many differences on the direction of health care in America, we all agree that children deserve access to affordable health insurance. I support reauthorization of SCHIP, and I support the substantial $5 billion increase proposed by President Bush. The Democrat proposal is budget-busting and irresponsible.
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October 03, 2007
September was a significant month for the Global War on Terrorism. Following months of anticipation and speculation, General David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker submitted their reports on the successes of the surge and new counter-insurgency strategy we are pursuing. Their testimony before a joint-hearing of the House Armed Services Committee and the House Committee on Foreign Affairs was a candid and genuine account of what they believe is the best course of action for the United States to succeed in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Following their presentation before Congress, I was grateful to have the opportunity to visit our troops in both Iraq and Afghanistan at the end of September to see for myself what progress was being made.
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September 12, 2007
At the end of August, I embarked on my Sixth Annual District Bus Tour. My wife Roxanne, our dedicated staff members, and community leaders made 42 stops over five days, hitting all ten counties and meeting local leaders, touring local businesses, and speaking with the citizens of South Carolina’s Second Congressional District. As in years past, it was truly an honor to have this opportunity.
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