By Cory True '09
Kevin Harrington Student Ambassador
In Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter's Report Home, the recently elected United States Representative for New Hampshire's first congressional district, addressed a sizeable gathering of constituents and Saint Anselm College students, updating them on the inner workings of Congress from the perspective of a freshman lawmaker. Shea-Porter spoke candidly on a plethora of issues, taking questions from the audience in an informal style.
Beginning her talk by pointing out several peculiarities of negotiating the halls of Congress as a freshman member, Shea-Porter described her position as "the ultimate advocate's job." She reminded the audience about the importance of contacting their representatives because ultimately, "we're asking the questions that you are asking of us."
A cosponsor of 43 Congressional bills to date, Shea-Porter spoke passionately about "moving forward together" and seeking a spirit of bipartisanship in her ongoing work. Mentioning that the debate is "long overdue" on issues ranging from Iraq to lowering interest rates on student loans, she completed her thought by telling the audience that it has been a privilege to be a part of the ongoing dialogue in Congress.
Focusing much of her discussion on Iraq, Shea-Porter described her aspirations to cut funding for the war, but to ensure the ongoing protection of the troops already deployed. It is her hope that the United States will begin to withdraw troops within six months.
"Please continue to contact me," Shea-Porter said as she wrapped up the evening. "New Hampshire is a state of retail politics," she added and said that the most enjoyable part of her job is meeting with constituents. "We are listening" she concluded.