Politics

By Marie Brown

WASHINGTON, DC (OBSNews.com) – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-05) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives in support of H.Res. 32, honoring the victims of the Tucson shooting. Her remarks, as prepared for delivery, are below:

“I rise today in support of H.Res. 32, a resolution to honor the victims of the Tucson shooting, including our colleague, and my friend, Gabby Giffords.

“I have seen Gabby’s commitment and dedication to her constituents firsthand. I have had the pleasure to work with her to promote efforts to restore our nation’s competitiveness in manufacturing, and specifically to help create clean energy jobs.

“Gabby is smart, courageous, disciplined, and effective, and, as we have all seen over the last few days, her strength is unwavering. Moreover, she is a dedicated public servant for the people of Arizona.

By Mara Lee

WASHINGTON, D.C. (OBSNews.com) – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-Sacramento) voted in favor of H.R. 2695, the Don’t Ask Don’t Tell Repeal Act of 2010, which would eliminate the discriminatory policy that allows for dishonorable discharge of service members who are either openly gay or perceived to be. The bipartisan legislation to repeal the United States military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) policy has earned broad support among America’s military, and passed the House today as a stand-alone bill by a 250-175 vote.

“The House of Representatives voted again today to repeal the discriminatory and misguided Don’t Ask Don’t Tell policy,” stated Congresswoman Matsui, “Because America’s dedicated military members should be able to serve with honor and with dignity no matter their race, color, gender, creed, or sexual orientation. Our diversity is our strength; and our country is strongest when those who defend it reflect its diversity.”

By Marie Brown

WASHINGTON, DC (OBSNews.com) – Rep. Daniel E. Lungren (R-CA) was recently named Chairman of the Committee on House Administration for the 112th Congress. Mr. Lungren was the Ranking Member of that committee in the 111th Congress.

Rep. Lungren intends to focus his efforts in his term as Chairman on reducing spending and protecting voter rights. He also serves on the House Judiciary and Homeland Security committees.

“It has been a privilege to serve as Ranking Member alongside Mr. Brady and I am honored to serve all Americans as Chairman of the Committee on House Administration. With the largest incoming class of new members in 60 years, I am looking forward to continuing their transition into the 112th Congress. The Committee will also do its part in finding ways to reduce spending in Washington D.C. and bring a more efficient, responsible government back to the people," commented Lungren in a released statement.