Diane Watson: “thank you, Mr. Issa, for introducing this bill, and for allowing me to speak in support of naming a post office after…”

“thank you, Mr. Issa, for introducing this bill, and for allowing me to speak in support of naming a post office after Congressman Ron Packard. Ron Packard has been a fixture in California politics for as long as I can remember. When most people think of the responsibilities of a Member of Congress, they think of our work here in Washington, shaping policy and passing legislation. But much of the job we do is focused on our own communities back home, serving as advocates for our hometowns and neighborhoods. Over the two decades that he served in Congress, Ron Packard excelled in both these roles. In the House he rose to become an Appropriations subcommittee chairman, one of the so-called 'Cardinals' who have a special responsibility for shaping our government's spending policy. But he was always focused on finding ways to help out his constituents and neighbors back home. Congressman Packard started out in local politics, as director of the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce. Strengthening the economy of his community and his state was his overriding passion. Like many Californians, Ron Packard was a pioneer, moving to California to serve in the United States Navy. After his service he settled here, and helped to build our state, as a dentist and local businessman.”