Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor America's brave wildland firefighters and first responders. In Oregon and across the West, we are seeing deadly wildfires on the rise. They are starting earlier and growing larger than in previous years. Throughout this fire season, I have spent a lot of time attending interagency briefings, visiting fire camps, and talking with first responders on the ground. Just last week, I visited a camp near Mount Hood where wildland firefighters are battling through a heat wave to contain the Sandstone fire. These heroes put their lives on the line to keep us safe. In return, we must provide them with the resources and support they need to continue doing their jobs and protecting our communities. I have introduced legislation to do just that, including a bipartisan bill to help the U.S. Forest Service recruit, train, and place wildland firefighters in our communities to expand their firefighting capacity. Understandably, fighting these blazes and being separated from home and family for weeks on end can be emotionally taxing. Another bill of mine would actually connect more firefighters with mental health services and help them cope with the trauma they face on a daily basis. To our brave heroes: Thank you for your sacrifices. I will keep working to deliver the pay, benefits, and support you rightfully deserve. ____________________”