No Vacation From Responsibility

Letter to the Editor from U.S. Congressional Candidate Lee Zeldin

PATCHOGUE, NY (08/15/2008)(readMedia)-- To the Editor:

Americans typically view the summer as a time to relax and take a break. And knowing how hard many of our friends and neighbors work, I'd say that this time is often well deserved. However, as Congress enters a third week of a five-week vacation (thanks to my opponent, who cast the deciding vote for the break), I keep thinking of 535 elected officials who have done everything but earn a vacation and need to get back to work immediately.

Now is not the time for Congress to ignore their responsibilities, as their "to do" list is extensive:

  • Congress must pass energy reform immediately.
  • We must reduce our reliance on foreign oil for the sake of our national security and financial security.
  • It is important that we drill for oil in the coastal plain of Alaska and off shore.
  • Congress must cut red tape to boost the creation of refineries.
  • We should reward the group or individual capable of building a super fuel efficient vehicle (100 miles per gallon).
  • We must develop alternative energy sources such as wind, solar, hydroelectric and nuclear power. This will create American jobs, reduce our foreign trade deficit, and eliminate our dependence on foreign oil.
  • Congress should return to Washington immediately in order to pass the American Energy Act and reform our nation's energy policy.

To spread the word, I've worn out a couple pairs of shoes, knocking on doors and talking to folks about this issue and others. And the reality is that we are all concerned. That's why I'm astounded at the unwillingness of my opponent and his colleagues to do their job and support the American Energy Act.

I'm convinced Congress needs new leadership, and I'm ready to fill the void. It is time for a fundamental change of direction in Washington.

Ready to Serve,

Lee Zeldin

Zeldin served as an aide to State Senator Kenneth P. LaValle. The Shirley resident studied at the University at Albany, graduated from Albany Law School, and earned his commission through Army ROTC. He was a paratrooper, prosecutor and magistrate with the 82nd Airborne Division and XVIII Airborne Corps. In the summer of 2006, he was a JAG attorney deployed to Iraq. He is currently an attorney at Raiser & Kenniff on Long Island.

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