-- Randy’s Roundup --

A Weekly Newsletter from Congressman Randy Neugebauer

February 16, 2009

If American families are tightening their belts, their government should as well

Last week, I voted against the so-called stimulus bill because I questioned much of the spending in this legislation. I believe a stimulus package should be about spurring growth and preserving long-term job creation, not increasing the national debt and placing more burdens on hard-working families.  So do hundreds of you who called and emailed me to express your opposition to this massive spending bill.

We all agree that Americans are hurting. I understand many people in the 19th District are anxious about their jobs, the cost of their mortgage and putting food on the table. Now more than ever, families and employers need their leaders in Washington to work together to create a plan that will help support long-term job creation and strengthen our economy.  I believe a plan that included broad tax relief for families and employers would do far more to support than the economy than this spending package, and many economists agree.

Instead, the Majority decided to once again pull out the Congressional credit card, expand our national debt and further leverage our children and grandchildren’s future. I believe the people of the West Texas and the Big Country deserved a better plan from the federal government than more borrowing, spending and debt.

Since this $787 billion bill is set to become law with President Obama's signature expected tomorrow, Congress must take renewed responsibility for ensuring money is not wasted.  Billions of dollars will be allocated to states and through federal programs for roads, water infrastructure and other projects.  As agencies and states decide how to use this money, they must be fully accountable to the taxpayers.  While I did not support this new spending we can't afford, I will do all I can to make sure it is not used irresponsibly.

Celebrating Black History Month

In February, we recognize the many contributions and influences of the African Americans. We remember such brave men and women as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman and Rosa Parks. Their contributions to society have played an integral part in our country’s history. This Black History Month, we also recognize the historic inauguration of Barack Obama, the first African American president.

Black History Week, the precursor to Black History Month, was originally started in 1926 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson. The “Father of Black History” helped lay the foundation for the way Americans’ view the positive contributions of African Americans to our society.

In honor of Black History Month, I have donated copies of Black Americans in Congress to schools in Lubbock and Abilene. My hope is that these books remind children to recognize the great sacrifices those before them made so that we may all pursue the American dream.

YouTube and Facebook

In an effort to update the constituents of the 19th Congressional District and keep them informed of my actions in Washington, I have created my own YouTube and Facebook pages. Please visit both sites as a way to learn more about what I am doing in Washington on your behalf.   For example, you can watch a video I recorded last Friday following the House vote on the economic package here.

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As always, when events unfold in Washington, I will be sure to update you. In the meantime, do not hesitate to visit my website or call my office toll free district wide at (888) 763-1611 or my Washington, DC office at 202-225-4005.