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For too long, the voices of the American people have been ignored in Washington. While Americans have been speaking out, the current leadership in Washington has carried out a job-killing, big-spending agenda that doesn't reflect the priorities of the people.

This week my conservative colleagues and I put forth a new governing agenda. It's called "A Pledge to America," and it was developed by listening to the American people – something that hasn't been happening in Washington recently. The agenda emphasizes job creation, ending the federal spending spree and reforming Congress.

It's no secret illegal immigration is an ongoing problem in the United States and that the federal government has thus far failed to stem the tide of illegal aliens entering our country. Thousands of immigrants continue to cross our southern border and remain here unlawfully, proving the so-called "virtual fence" has not worked.

This House was back in session following an extended six week long summer recess period. Unfortunately, Congressional leadership did not use this week to address what I believe is the most important issue currently facing every American taxpayer: the coming expiration of the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts.

For months during the run-up to the health care bill vote the American public was repeatedly told the proposed overhaul would save money and decrease overall health care costs. This became known as "bending the cost curve down," and it was used as a key justification for increased government involvement in our health care system.

This weekend we celebrated the annual Labor Day holiday. While the day off was a welcome break for many and a reminder of how hard Americans work, my goal is to ensure our agricultural and manufacturing sectors are kept in mind every day.

We know by now that government cannot create or save jobs; that is what the private sector does. Therefore, I believe the federal government should be pursing policies that help create opportunities for our farmers and small businesses to grow.

Classes are once again back in session across Northwest Missouri. While some students may be wishing they were still on summer break, many teachers are worried about how their newest classes will score on upcoming standardized tests.

This past Thursday was "Cost of Government Day." Each year, the Americans for Tax Reform Foundation and the Center for Fiscal Accountability calculate the day on which the average American has earned enough gross income to pay off his or her share of the spending and regulatory burdens imposed by government at the federal, state and local levels.