Congressional Liaision Report | 01.27.2010

The past few weeks have been crazy. Nothing compared to what I was used to with the comforting aura of the holidays filling the Capitol. A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to receive the first draft of the new Immigration Reform Bill (H.R. 4321). One that my Congressman was able to co-sponsor. However, last week with the election of Republican Scott Brown, I’m afraid the news are not as exciting. The fact that we have lost the 60th vote in the Senate only means that progressive reforms like this one will take all our effort and dedication to go through, and at this time I’m afraid in D.C the economy and job creation have taken the front seat. Especially because a lot of the blame on the lost seat is geared towards Martha Coakley's (Democrat opponent) focus on amnesty for undocumented immigrants. It was one of the most hurtful things I have heard this year, but we need to keep fighting!

We still have a lot to find out and I think tomorrow’s State of the Union will be an interesting way to see what’s going on, so make sure to tune in. Obama is probably going to take about an hour to explain a plan that is really going to be a bit painful. Reports say there will be a freeze on domestic spending and this will put a halt to any type of immigration reform. A few weeks ago I read an article in a magazine called Congress Daily that explained that even if Congress and the Senate are ready to talk reform, the only people that will actually get it moving are in the White House. If Obama is not willing to make it a priority, then no one else can.

I would like to add that elections are coming up. Latinos and Latinas give Democrats an incredible boost, and we need to make them aware how much our vote will count on this election year (for those of you who can vote!). If you can't vote don't hesitate and become part of a campaign that shares your ideals. Campaign for them using your Spanish and reach out to the Latino community who is documented, but needs information. Be your community liaison.

On a more positive note, I am posting a couple of videos from a great think-tank in D.C called the Center for American Progress (CAP). Enjoy!

English version:
http://www.americanprogress.org/issues/2010/01/kelley_video.html

Spanish version:
http://www.americanprogress.org/issues/2010/01/cardenas_video.html

*Visit Center for American Progress for more information*