Wednesday, February 15, 2023

Congressman Auchincloss: Update from the last 2 weeks

LAST 2 WEEKS IN REVIEW

I'm your representative in Congress and I write to keep you informed.

On the Hill

State of the Union: I attended the President's State of the Union address on Tuesday night, where he spoke of the progress we've made, from infrastructure to gun safety, and of the work still ahead. He proclaimed that our democracy, though bruised, remains unbowed and unbroken. Now, we must finish the job and deliver results for the American people.

I was joined by Dr. Xiaoyan Qin, an independent pharmacist, as my guest of honor. I recently visited Union Pharmacy and spoke to Dr. Qin about being a small business owner and how rising healthcare costs affect Americans every day. She has made a name for herself with top-notch patient service in our district. We also discussed her experiences as an immigrant from China who has witnessed the opportunities America provides firsthand. As a small business owner and advocate for better drug-pricing policy, she represents how immigrants enrich our communities.

China: I was honored to be appointed as a Member of the Select Committee on Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and the Chinese Communist Party. This committee will assess the myriad military, economic, and technological challenges posed by China. As underscored by China's recent surveillance of U.S. sites, the relationship between the two greatest powers in the world is deteriorating.

This Congress, and my generation, have an opportunity to rise above politics to chart a course for sound strategy. Americans' own cultivation of freedom, democracy, and science will be the hallmarks of a winning strategy. If Americans allow this heritage to wither, then no plan can save us. If we re-invigorate these strengths, then no nation can outcompete us. I am ready to chart that course.

Regulating Social Media: We must bring social media companies before Congress and hold them accountable for the experiment they are running on our children for profit. As a father of two, I am deeply concerned about the impact social media has on children's mental health. It is unacceptable that these companies are targeting children as young as 8 years old. By setting a verifiable age of at least 16 for social media, Congress could empower parents as the gatekeepers of healthy online experiences for their children. I am committed to supporting legislation that will keep our children safe online.

Make your voice heard → Are you concerned about the impact of social media on our children?

Do you support setting an age limit for social media?

Around the Fourth

WinterFEST: I went to the Hyde Community Center in Newton for the second annual WinterFEST, hosted by Newton Community Pride. I enjoyed the hot soup and great company with my friends and neighbors.

New Additions to the District: In the first month of the 118th Congress, I've been traveling to the towns added to the Massachusetts Fourth as part of redistricting. Recently, I had terrific conversations with officials and residents in Millville and Sherborn. I heard about issues ranging from water to housing to internet access. I am committed to advocating for these communities in Congress.

Onwards,