Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, issued the following statement today after being sworn in to the 113th Congress.

“My focus in the 113th Congress will not waver: we need to create jobs and invest in long-term economic growth in Northwest Washington,” Larsen said.

“I am pleased to now represent a diverse new constituency in south Snohomish County and look forward to working with these communities to support local initiatives that create jobs, advance innovation and expand education and training opportunities. Throughout the Second District I will continue supporting investments in roads, bridges, highways and ferries, and helping businesses export their products, not their jobs, overseas.

“The last Congress left too much work incomplete. We must come together to cut the deficit by acting on a balanced plan that puts us on a path to fiscal sustainability. We must pass a strong new version of the Violence Against Women Act to help prevent domestic violence and prosecute offenders. And Congress needs to pass comprehensive immigration reform that includes the DREAM Act to make sure students brought to the United States through no fault of their own are able to stay and contribute to their country.

“I understand why so many people are frustrated with Congress. My commitment to my constituents is that I will work in a bipartisan manner to produce results that create jobs and move the country forward. That is what I did in the last Congress, passing legislation to help businesses export, improve pipeline safety and help veterans get jobs. As a leader of the New Democrat Coalition, I will continue working across the aisle to produce legislation that responsibly invests in our people and in our future.”