For the last 50 years, the 4th Congressional District has been represented by people who live(d) in Newton — Congressmen Robert Drinan (who passed away in 2007), Barney Frank, Joe Kennedy III, and currently, Jake Auchincloss. Frank, Kennedy and Auchincloss are joining me tomorrow night for a discussion about representing the district in a forum presented by the League of Women Voters of Newton. You can register here.
I hope to facilitate a discussion about how both the district and Congress have changed over the years, the challenges of legislating in 2021, how residents in the southern part of district differ from the typical Newton voter, and more. If there’s something you want to know, leave your question here or email me at gailspector1 at gmail.
Rep. Auchincloss: For the first time ever, there is a realistic path towards marijuana legalization at the federal level. While serving as a city councilor, you publicly opposed legalization and later licensing. How do you plan to vote when this comes to the house floor?
Is there any chance at all at building bipartisan support for generally acknowledged needs in the country, e.g., infrastructure upgrades?
There seems to be an inordinate amount of pressure today to vote as a unified democratic caucus. This isn’t a new phenomenon, but how has each of these leaders established themselves separate from the rest, yet close enough to be considered a team player. Is it done in committee, in personal discussion, or via amendments? Given you all have strong convictions and do not always achieve your ultimate goals in legislation, I imagine you play the long game, but I’m hoping to hear your thoughts.
David, is that question for Jake about the Newton City Council or the US House?
Hmm, V14 edited out my joking emoticon.
For anyone:
Why aren’t government programs (say from the latest Covid relief program) indexed to the cost of living in any area?
The US Government and most employers do this all the time. If you travel to NYC you’re eligible for higher reimbursements than if you travel to St. Louis. A military family gets a larger housing allowance if they’re located in the Northeast vs. the South.
By not accounting for different regional costs the higher income, higher cost states get excluded from many programs that benefit the South and Midwest. How is this fair? Why does it never seem to get raised as an issue?
Best breakfast joint in DC….and why?
Best breakfast in DC is Ebbitt Grill.