One year ago today Americans sent a strong message for change in Washington.  This past January, Democrats took control of Congress committed to “New Direction” for America.  While many challenges remain – first and foremost among them, bringing the war in Iraq to an end – the New Direction Congress has made significant progress on our ambitious agenda. 

Within the first hours of the 110th Congress, the House took quick action to end business as usual in Washington and put in place tough new reforms to put our own House in order.  The Democratic-led Congress subsequently passed the Honest Government and Open Leadership Act, the toughest ethics reforms to be enacted in a generation.  This legislation ended lobbyist provided trips and meals and requires full disclosure for “earmarks” in bills.  It is a major reason the 110th Congress is the most open and honest Congress in history. 

The New Direction Congress also followed through on our promise to implement all recommendations made by the nonpartisan 9/11 Commission.  Thanks to this legislation we’re finally moving forward on major improvements in aviation, border, port, and infrastructure security.  It also provides first responders the equipment and training they need, strengthens efforts to prevent terrorists from acquiring weapons of mass destruction, and significantly expands diplomatic, economic, educational, and other strategies designed to counter terrorist threats.

I’m also proud of our work to help students pursue higher education.  Earlier this year the New Direction Congress passed delivered a historic increase in student aid, enacting the single largest investment in college financial assistance since the 1944 GI Bill.  By increasing Pell grants and cutting interest rates in half on subsidized student loans over the next four years, the College Cost Reduction and Access Act saves the average student $4,400 over the life of their loan.  Our bill makes college more affordable for our students and their families while additionally encouraging students to pursue careers in public service, like nursing and police work.  This sound investment in our students will also help ensure that America remains competitive in the global economy.

And last but certainly not least, for the first time in 10 years, American workers earning the Federal Minimum wage received a pay raise thanks to the New Direction Congress.   The Democratic-led Congress believes that Americans who work hard and play by the rules should earn enough to provide for their families and have an opportunity to share in the American dream.

While I am very proud of these wonderful accomplishments, I know that many challenges remain – the most pressing of which is ending the war in Iraq.  The New Direction Congress has voted for a definitive timeline to bring our troops home, a move supported by the American people.  Unfortunately, the President has turned a deaf ear to these calls and a blind eye to the reality of Iraq.  He has rejected our efforts to bring the war to an end and, tragically, has found nearly unanimous support for his failed policies among Republicans in Congress.

As we observe the one year anniversary of the American people’s demand for change in Washington, I am pleased with the progress the New Direction Congress has been able to make in the face of continued opposition from President Bush and the Republican Leadership in Congress.  Looking forward to the next year, I know that my Democratic colleagues and I are eager to tackle the many challenges that remain as we continue our efforts to deliver a New Direction for our country.

Pictured above: (center) Congresswoman Capps meets with Central Coast firefighters to discuss emergency preparedness.