Mitch Landrieu: “it is almost like the change of season around the Capitol when young people from all over the country descend on the…”

“it is almost like the change of season around the Capitol when young people from all over the country descend on the Capitol to learn about their Government. We all meet with groups of these students from our State. We take photos, we answer questions. But if you take the time to look at the badges the students and teachers are wearing, more likely than not, they will say Close Up. Like thousands of young people around this Nation, I got my first real taste of our Federal Government from a trip sponsored by the Close Up Foundation. Since 1972, more than 26,000 students from my State have learned about their Government through the auspices of this organization. Close Up has awarded some $3.7 million in fellowships for students in need and their teachers to encourage the broadest base of possible participation. Furthermore, this program was started by a legendary member of this body, who also hailed from Louisiana--Allen Ellender. Moreover, there has never been a greater need than now for young people to understand what our Democracy is all about. As we face enormous challenges at home and abroad, the better understanding our young people have about their Government, the brighter our future will be. Sadly, Mr. President, the Close Up Foundation, which has enjoyed the support of the Senate for several decades, did not receive any resources in this bill. They are seeking funding of $1.4 million, an amount equal to last year's level.”