New Year, New Opportunities
The 20th Amendment to the Constitution requires that Congress convene at least once a year on January 3rd. Missouri became the 36th state to ratify the Amendment on January 23rd, 1933. All 48 states would ultimately ratify it within the next four months.
January 3rd will be the first meeting of the 113th Congress. At that time, the Sixth Congressional District of Missouri will officially represent all or parts of 36 counties. This North Missouri district will be bigger than 9 states in total square miles.
North Missouri has played an integral part in our nation's history. Along Highway 36 alone, you will find historical markers for Mark Twain, Walt Disney, General John "Black Jack" Pershing, J.C. Penney and Jesse James. It is bordered by two of our nation's greatest rivers- the Missouri and the Mississippi. Bowling Green was the home of the only Missourian to be Speaker of the House-Champ Clark.
This is a great opportunity for North Missouri to speak with one voice in Washington. I will continue to represent the Sixth Congressional District to Washington, not the other way around. I believe the best ideas often come from outside Washington.
I am excited and honored to be your voice in Washington. Once again, I will also serve as the Chairman of the Small Business Committee.
I'm optimistic about the next Congress. However that is for another day. For now, I want to wish you and your family a Happy New Year and a prosperous 2013.
Sincerely,
Sam Graves