Kicking Off the 119th Congress
Happy New Year! I hope you had a wonderful holiday with your friends and loved ones.
The 119th Congress kicked off on Friday, January 3rd with the Speaker of the House Election and the swearing in of all new members. I thank you for the trust and confidence you have placed in me to continue serving as your representative. Each day I come to work with one focus in mind: how can I help my constituents and solve problems facing our district. As the first Black woman to represent Virginia in Congress, I also feel a deep responsibility to share my unique perspective, advocate for policies that address disparities disproportionately impacting historically marginalized communities, and break down barriers keeping everyone from experiencing the promise of liberty and justice for all embodied in America’s founding documents.
Yesterday, Congress fulfilled one of its most sacred duties during a joint session: the certification of the 2024 presidential election results. This process occurred peacefully and with bipartisan commitment to the principles that unite us as Americans, in stark contrast to January 6th, 2021, when Donald Trump and a violent mob tried to take by force what they could not win at the ballot box. The fulfillment of this constitutional duty reaffirms the resilience of our democratic institutions and Democrats’ commitment to the rule of law and the will of the people.
The 119th Congress poses both pressing challenges and exciting opportunities for progress. From lowering costs for hardworking Americans, addressing economic inequality, expanding access to affordable and quality childcare, tackling climate change and ensuring affordable healthcare for all, I remain committed to advancing legislation that reflects the priorities of our district.
In the months ahead, I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to deliver results for our communities. I will continue to advocate for the issues that matter most to you, and I encourage you to stay engaged. Together, we can build a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
President Biden Signs My First Standalone Bill into Law
Over the weekend, President Joe Biden signed my legislation, H.R. 7385, into law! This bill renames the Petersburg Post Office as the “John Mercer Langston Post Office Building.” Mr. Langston led an impressive life of service, as an abolitionist, attorney, diplomat, voting rights advocate, educational administrator, community leader, and the first Black man to represent Virginia in Congress – also from Virginia’s Fourth. He had a profound impact on Petersburg, in particular, as President of the Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute – what is now Virginia State University.
As a young girl, I used to accompany my father to the Petersburg Post Office. Now as a Member of Congress, I have the incredible opportunity to rename it and honor the life and legacy of one of my predecessors. It’s a wonderful full circle moment that I will treasure. I hope young children visiting the Post Office will see John Mercer Langston’s name and learn more about his invaluable contributions to our community, Commonwealth, and country.
You can watch my floor remarks from when it passed the House here:
As always, I want to hear from you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office to share your thoughts, ask questions, or seek assistance. Your voice is vital to our work in Washington and here at home. Make sure to follow along on my social media at @RepMcClellan on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, BlueSky, and YouTube.
Thank you for the privilege of serving you. Here's to a productive and promising year ahead!