On January 4, 2007, I was sworn in to Congress. It is an honor and a privilege for me to now represent Florida’s 13th Congressional District in Congress. I am grateful to those of you who supported my election, but whether you voted for me or not, I will listen to your concerns and be a strong advocate on your behalf. I will also remember the lessons of the November elections and work to restore trust and faith in Congress and confidence in our electoral process.

With the swearing in of the 110th Congress, we begin to address the needs of the people. Americans are expecting a new path toward victory in Iraq and I will work in a bipartisan manner to achieve that goal. I will address the deficit by working to advance a balanced budget amendment and line item veto to control federal spending. I will also work to keep our promises to the many veterans and seniors in my District by providing the health care and retirement benefits they have been promised. Furthermore, I will fight for our region by demanding our fair share of federal transportation dollars and working to make property insurance more affordable.

I am humbled by the confidence that has been placed in me by the voters of Florida’s 13th Congressional District and I welcome this opportunity to give back to a country that has allowed me, a blue collar kid from a working class family, to put myself through college, be successful in business, get married, and raise two wonderful sons. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if I can be of assistance with any federal matter.