Renewing the American Dream

As a nation, we face incredible challenges right now. People are struggling to find jobs, pay their bills and make a better life for their children. When folks tell me about struggling to put food on the table, I understand because I've been there.
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As a nation, we face incredible challenges right now. People are struggling to find jobs, pay their bills and make a better life for their children. When folks tell me about struggling to put food on the table, I understand because I've been there.

My dad, a Vietnam Veteran, put himself through college on the GI bill and had a good job. Then at age 55, he suddenly lost his job and the bottom fell out for our family. It took him years to find another job. Ultimately, we all had to pitch in -- my mom took in sewing and I found an after-school job. With hard work and a bit of help, we rolled up our sleeves and rebuilt our lives.

The American Dream I believe in is one that provides anyone willing to work hard enough with the opportunity to succeed. Life isn't fair and it isn't government's job to make life fair. But if you're not willing to give up on yourself, then we shouldn't give up on you either. That shared appreciation for hard work and the opportunity to build a future for yourself and your family is the American Dream.

I'm running for Congress to make sure that the programs that helped me and my family get back on our feet are there for others who are working hard to achieve the American Dream. That's why this week I'm launching the American Dream Tour. I'll be meeting with residents across the 8th District to hear about what the American Dream means to them and how we can get this country back on track so that every person has a chance to achieve it.

I'll be hearing from moms and dads, small business owners, students, seniors and homeowners. I'll be listening to people who want to share their hopes and dreams for the future and finding ways to support their goals as a member of Congress.

At my core, I know that the American Dream is about the opportunity to work hard to make your future. I look forward to this tour and hearing about the dreams of my neighbors in the 8th District and doing what I can to ensure they have a shot at it. I hope you'll join me and tell me what matters most to you.

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