Recent updates on my work for you
Dear Neighbor,
I want to share a few updates on my recent work for you, including an exciting report that my office has saved constituents more than $5 million so far this year! Remember, if you’re having trouble with a federal agency, please reach out so we can get to work on your behalf. Please scroll down for more.
Latest on Situation in Afghanistan
After nearly two decades, the last servicemembers left Afghanistan this week. First and foremost, I want to ask everyone to take a moment to send their thoughts to the families and friends of the Marines and sailor from Camp Pendleton who were killed in the terrorist attack in Kabul. These servicemembers are heroes who were saving lives and protecting their fellow Americans and Afghan allies. Their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Let’s also recommit to supporting the post-9/11 veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, and making sure they have all of the health and economic benefits they have earned and deserve. I also believe we have a moral responsibility to welcome our Afghan allies with open arms, and I look forward to doing that as these refugees arrive.
It is clear that a comprehensive investigation is needed of the strategic decisions made with regard to Afghanistan from the Bush-Cheney Administration onward. I welcome Congressional hearings on the events of the last several months, as well as the many decisions over the last 20 years that brought us to this point. The American people deserve answers and accountability from their leadership, and I intend to help provide that.
Legislative Updates
- Build Back Better Plan: Last week, the House passed a budget resolution to advance President Biden’s Build Back Better Act. With this legislation, we can finally take the bold action needed to address the climate crisis and strengthen our country's infrastructure. The devastating destruction by Hurricane Ida shows how important it is that we act now.
- John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (H.R. 4): Also last week, I was proud to vote for the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to #RestoreTheVote and uphold the most sacred part of our democracy. For our democracy to thrive we need to make it easier, not harder, for eligible voters to cast their ballot.
Significant Constituent
I am thrilled to announced that my office has secured more than $5 million for constituents through casework services so far this year. The services include successful efforts to resolve issues with Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funding and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), as well as cases involving the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Social Security Administration (SSA), and other federal agencies. The total amount secured for constituents so far this year is $5,430,888. The median receipt is $5,862, and 27 constituents received more than $20,000.
While my name may be on the door, this office belongs to the people I serve, which is why I believe one of my most important responsibilities is providing excellent constituent services. I’m glad many of my constituents have received significant savings as a result of these services, and that important work will continue to be a priority as long as I have the honor of serving. I encourage anyone in North County San Diego or South Orange County to reach out if they’re having any issues with a federal agency so we can get to work on their behalf.
- As you may know, California will be conducting a recall election on September 14th. This election will determine who our governor will be through 2022 and will cost the state of California $276 million, according to the State Finance Department, so I strongly encourage you to participate. Find out more on voting locations here.
- With the Delta Variant on the rise, I urge you to get the COVID-19 vaccine if you haven’t already. More than 80 percent of eligible Californians have received at least one dose of the vaccine, but I know we can do better! Find locations on where to get yours here. These vaccines save lives.
