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Text transcript of 1/9/09 radio actuality.

This is Congressman Ike Skelton.

In the coming weeks, the House of Representatives is expected to consider economic recovery legislation - a bold effort intended to create jobs and strengthen the middle class.

As the House prepares to draft this legislation, I sent a letter to the Speaker of the House. And in it, I urged the House to include funds for rural America in the economic recovery legislation.

As someone who has been privileged to represent small town Missouri, I have come to appreciate how the rural economy helps to drive our national economic engine. That is why I am particularly hopeful that funds will be directed toward meaningful rural priorities.

Without question, times are tough for Americans right now. But, American optimism, ingenuity, and dedication have seen us through many difficult times in our nation's history. I am confident that together we will fight hard to restore the American Dream and overcome the challenges our nation faces.

This is Congressman Ike Skelton.