Dear Friend,
This week, the Congressional Management Foundation (CMF) announced that I am a finalist for the first-ever “Life in Congress” Workplace Environment award as part of the Democracy Awards. This award highlights offices that have both formal policies and informal cultures that exhibit core office values and support the professional development of their staffs.
I am truly honored to be a finalist for this award. Since first being elected to Congress, serving the constituents of Washington’s Eighth District has been the number one priority for me and my team. It is about more than meeting the needs of my constituents; it is about doing so each day with the heart of a servant. This mentality develops leadership, integrity, service, and teamwork that is unrivaled. When I served as Sheriff of King County, I saw how these values created a strong team, which is why I established this as an office mission from the very beginning.”
Bradford Fitch, President and CEO of the Congressional Management Foundation shared why I was selected for the award. “As a finalist in "Life in Congress"-Workplace Environment for a Democracy Award, Rep. Reichert’s office is clearly one of the best in Congress. This designation demonstrates that Rep. Reichert has made a significant commitment to being the best public servant for his constituents in Washington. Rep. Reichert and his staff are to be congratulated for not only being a model for colleagues in Congress, but for helping to restore trust and faith that our democratic institutions can work.
“Representative Dave Reichert (R-WA-08) actively solicits opinions and ideas from his staff, fostering loyalty and a desire to work at their highest potential. Four of his employees have worked for him almost his entire tenure in Congress; the Chief of Staff has been with him for 25 years, dating back to his days in law enforcement. The office makes certain everyone knows what is expected of them and how to successfully carry out their duties through thorough, but easily understood, manuals. The 200+ page "8th District Guide" lists names and contact information for government offices at every level; Chambers of Congress and other business organizations by city; community and service groups; and all schools, hospitals, and first responders in the district. This extremely useful document gives staff vital information they need to excel in their positions and to represent the district at the highest level. The core values of the office – Leadership, Integrity, Service and Teamwork – are displayed on posters in each location as a reminder of how employees should approach service to their constituents.”
It is truly an honor to serve you, the constituents of Washington’s Eighth District. This nomination is only recognition that my team and I give everything we have to serving you - the best constituents in the country.
The Loss of an Icon
This week we lost one of the greatest and most influential men in the Christian faith. Having sparked conversations about faith around the world, Reverend Graham will be dearly missed by so many. Growing up, Reverend Graham was an icon that I admired and looked up to. My sincerest condolences are with the Graham family during this difficult time.
The Next Generation
I had the privilege of meeting with students in the AP Government class at Enumclaw High School. I always love having the chance to meet with students and talk about how our government works. Each time I leave encouraged by the bright young minds in Washington’s Eighth District.
Leading the Way in Medical Research
Earlier this week, I had the privilege of visiting the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at the University of Washington. It is one of thirty-two centers funded by the National Institutes of Health studying this devastating disease. I am grateful for the work these researchers are doing; helping us better diagnose, improve care and quality of life for those affected, and ultimately find a cure. I was excited to see firsthand the work being conducted here in Washington State and I remain committed to ensuring these researchers have the funding and resources they need to continue their important work.
Protecting Our Neighbors
I had the chance to sit down with a group of men and women that came to America with their spouses, who are here as highly skilled workers. They shared with me their concerns and fears about the possibility of losing their H-4 work authorization that helps them provide for their families and be a part of the local economy.
Bringing Beautiful Culture to Washington State
A highlight of the week was this Friday when I had the opportunity to meet with the Matsiko World Orphan Choir and hear them perform. This group has toured 35 states, performing everywhere from Disneyland in California to the Rhode Island Cliff Walk. The choir members come from Peru, Liberia, and India. My office had the privilege of helping them obtain their P-3 visas so they could come and experience a once in a lifetime trip around America performing for audiences across the country. I’m proud to have helped this sweet group of kids and wish them the best.
Supporting Those that Protect Us
While I was in Washington, DC, I was honored to speak with the Major County Sheriff’s Association at their annual conference about the great work they are doing around the country and how important it is that we continue to support them here in Congress. America’s law enforcement depend on critical funding from the COPS Office which I have fought for my entire career.
A Leader in Our Community
Sending my congratulations to my hometown mayor, Nancy Backus, on receiving the American Medical Association’s Dr. Nathan David Award for Outstanding Government Service for her leadership on the Healthy Auburn Task Force – it was certainly well deserved. It was a pleasure meeting with her and discussing the great work being done in Auburn on the opioid crisis and mental health. I am proud that Auburn is one of the leading cities in the country in combating these very serious problems.
Recognizing the Importance of Our Agriculture
With over 35,900 farms and 164,000 jobs in agriculture and food processing in Washington State, I am always glad to hear from groups like the Washington State Farm Bureau about their priorities. When I met with this group, we discussed the importance of trade and a reliable agricultural guestworker program. I look forward to our continued partnership in my final year.
Hope you all have a safe and warm weekend! Thanks for joining me!
