Columns
Blaine’s Bulletin: The Honor of a Lifetime
Washington,
December 13, 2024
Later this month, I will return home, back to St. Elizabeth, after 16 years of rewarding service in Washington. Representing Missouri’s Third District has been the honor of a lifetime. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of advocating for thousands of individual constituents navigating federal agencies. Whether it was helping veterans access their well-deserved benefits, assisting families with acquiring passports for long-awaited vacations, or ensuring our communities’ voices were heard on the national stage, serving you has been an unparalleled privilege. Throughout my time in Congress, I’ve fought to champion policies that improve the lives of Missourians and Americans alike. From funding life-saving cancer research to modernizing American housing policy, I’ve worked to rein in overzealous bureaucrats and ensure our incredible state receives the recognition and resources it deserves. I couldn’t have asked for a more fulfilling career in public service. Among the many moments I am proud of, a few stand out: Housing Reform and Opportunity In 2016, I introduced the Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act, which was signed into law that same year. This legislation cracked down on the abuse of housing subsidies, reduced regulatory burdens associated with the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and laid the groundwork for providing affordable housing to low-income individuals. This was a significant step toward ensuring every American has access to safe and affordable housing. Advancing Cancer Research Through dedicated advocacy, I helped secure critical funding for the nuclear reactor at the University of Missouri, known as NextGen MURR. Over the past 15 years, MURR has positioned Central Missouri at the forefront of cutting-edge cancer research, producing the most life-saving radiopharmaceuticals in the world. The impact of this facility extends far beyond our state—it has transformed lives globally and solidified Missouri’s role as a leader in medical innovation. Celebrating Missouri’s Legacy I’ve worked to honor Missouri’s rich history and contributions to our nation. This includes passing multiple resolutions that enshrine Missouri pride into American history. From recognizing the remarkable legacy of diplomat Carl Lutz to establishing the Winston Churchill Memorial and Library on the campus of Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, as America’s National Churchill Museum, I’ve sought to ensure that our state’s stories and achievements are celebrated and remembered. As I prepare to close this chapter of my career, I’m filled with gratitude for the trust you have placed in me to represent you. Together, we’ve navigated challenges and achieved milestones that will continue to benefit our communities for years to come. Thank you for allowing me to serve Missouri’s Third District. While I will no longer be in Washington as your voice in Congress, I will now be a constituent alongside you. I look forward to continuing to be a part of this incredible community, and working together to keep Missouri’s Third District thriving. Thank you for allowing me to serve you—it has been the honor of a lifetime. |