Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, was sworn in today for his eighth term in the U.S. House of Representatives, and he underscored his commitment to efforts that create jobs and opportunity for the people of Northwest Washington.

“Creating jobs and investing in long-term economic growth in Northwest Washington remain my top priorities for the 114th Congress. The best way to achieve these goals is to invest in our roads, bridges, highways and ferries. We cannot have a big league economy with little league infrastructure.

“As a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I will be working hard to address several pressing transportation issues, including sustainable ways to fund our roads, bridges, highways and transit. And since about 40 percent of jobs in Washington state are tied to trade, I also will continue to champion initiatives that help businesses export their products, not their jobs, overseas.

“In the Pacific Northwest, we know protecting our environment is essential to our way of life. I was pleased to lead efforts to preserve some of our open spaces during the last Congress, including Illabot Creek and the historic Green Mountain Lookout. My commitment to our lands, waters and wildlife will stay steadfast, and I will continue working to protect Washington state’s environment.

“The success of our economy and our democracy depend on all Americans’ participation. Congress has a lot of work to do to break down barriers to protect people’s fundamental right to vote, reform our country’s broken immigration system, and make sure elections give power to the people, not to money. Making progress on these priorities will not be easy, but I will continue working to move them forward for people in the Pacific Northwest and across the country.

“Congress is not winning any popularity contests lately with the partisan gridlock that has stalled progress on many important issues. But my commitment to producing results for my constituents remains strong. Just as I have worked in a bipartisan way to help businesses grow to new markets, ensure funding for ferries, and push for stronger safety standards for trains carrying crude oil, I will continue working across the aisle to make changes that responsibly invest in our people and in our future,” Larsen said.

Larsen will focus on job-creating transportation and other projects that are growing the local economy during his time in the Second Congressional District next week.

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