Along the way, with your help and support we had some amazing legislative successes, improved Ventura County’s infrastructure and even witnessed history making events in other parts of the world.
The world has certainly changed since I first went to Washington, D.C. in 1986, from the Berlin Wall coming down to 9/11 to the Arab Spring and other world-changing events. But I hope that when supporters and critics review my record in Congress they will agree that I remained true to the values I brought to Washington on that very first trip and never forgot who I worked for.
Now, as I begin my last year I am deeply grateful for the many close friends and supporters, including Republicans, Democrats and Independents, who Janice and I have had the honor and privilege to know and work with during more than 30 years of public service. Without your support, none of this would have been possible. For the next year, I will work as hard as I ever have. My first priority is to work with my colleagues to help the private sector create jobs - including passing E-Verify, the largest jobs bill now before Congress - and to continue to shore up our defenses against our enemies, foreign and domestic.
I believe in a great future for our country and I know that all Americans share this belief. We must continue to work together with unwavering determination to ensure that America remains a beacon of liberty, freedom and opportunity.
When I return home next year to begin the next chapter, that belief and energy will remain a part of me, as it will for my many friends. I know I won’t be alone in my future pursuits. And I will be forever grateful for that.
