News

Press Releases

Smith Statement in Commemoration of Black History Month

February 1, 2012

Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09) made the following statement in commemoration of Black History Month:

“As we celebrate Black History Month this February, let us honor the significant contributions and achievements African-Americans have made to our nation. The legacy of African-American trailblazers serves as an example of the leadership and commitment necessary to overcome insurmountable obstacles.

“As our country continues to face difficult economic times, we must also acknowledge that people of color are still disproportionately affected by unemployment and by discriminatory practices that must be addressed.

“There is still more work to do to realize a society that grants everyone a fair chance to succeed. No matter their race, creed, or background, we must ensure all people have an equal opportunity in our country to reach their highest potential, and to achieve their dreams.”

 ###

Smith Statement on the President's State of the Union Address

January 25, 2012

Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09) made the following statement regarding the President’s State of the Union Address:

“The most important issue facing our country is creating broad-based economic opportunity for every American. Returning our society to a place where every American has an equal chance to succeed has been slow, and there is much more to be done.

“The President outlined steps we must take to continue moving forward. By focusing on bringing jobs back to America through tax breaks to companies that keep them here, investing in community colleges to train and prepare our workforce with skills needed to compete in a 21st century global economy, by making higher education more accessible and affordable for anyone who wants to attend, and by monitoring unfair trade practices that ensure American workers and our products compete fairly within the global marketplace, we can do what is necessary to get our economy back on track.

“The Administration has also put together a significant string of foreign policy successes, including the death of Osama bin Laden, the elimination of much of al Qaeda's leadership, the end of the war in Iraq and by supporting the people of the Middle East and North Africa in their pursuit of a more representative government. Most recently, the President laid out a strategy to enable the United States to build on those successes and confront the threats of today and of the future, wherever they may emerge.

“There is still much work to do. Too many people working hard, being responsible and playing by the rules only to realize that opportunities that once existed are no longer there. I look forward to working with the President and my colleagues in Congress to support initiatives and policies that level the playing field, rebuild our economy and prepare us to meet the challenges of the future."

###

Smith Statement on the Departure of Gabby Giffords from Congress

January 22, 2012

Congressman Smith (WA-09) today released the following statement after Congresswoman Gabby Giffords announced she will resign from Congress:

"Congresswoman Gabby Giffords is a true friend, and a dynamic and dedicated public servant. Over the last year, she and her family have experienced very difficult and life changing events, but her courage and determination in the face of these challenges has truly been inspiring.

"Gabby has been an extraordinary Member of Congress and an outstanding member of the House Armed Services Committee. Her top priority has always been to serve and work hard to advocate for the people of southern Arizona and the impact she’s had in Congress will be felt for years to come.

"While Gabby will be deeply missed, the speed of her recovery has been remarkable.  I respect her decision to step down from Congress to continue focusing on her health. I have no doubt she will continue making a positive impact on the lives of those around her

"I wish Gabby and her family nothing but the best, and I will continue to do whatever I can to support her recovery."

Smith Statement on the Stop Online Piracy Act

January 18, 2012

Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09) today released the following statement regarding his opposition to the Stop Online Piracy Act:

“I am committed to finding ways to more effectively protect American innovation that helps drive our economy, but I do not support the Stop Online Piracy Act as it currently stands. Intellectual property theft and piracy undermines our competitive advantage within the global economy, negatively impacts multiple sectors within Washington State and the national economy, and costs individuals and U.S. - based businesses of all sizes billions of dollars each year.

“It is vitally important that we protect the intellectual property of content providers in the United States from serious threats posed by online piracy, but it is also important to ensure innovators have the ability to continue creating, producing and sharing new ideas. SOPA, as it stands, would significantly prevent that from happening.

“Though intellectual property protection is critical, the policies proposed by the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and the PROTECT IP Act (PIPA) are troubling. There is great concern among technology professionals and Internet users that these measures, if enacted, would place unacceptable limitations on the accessibility of online information and content, impose undue burdens on small and innovative websites and applications, and would not be the most effective way to curtail overseas illegal piracy and theft of intellectual property.

“I appreciate the attention this issue has received and the focus on finding better ways to protect American innovation and creativity without impeding the historic strengths and benefits of the Internet. I look forward to working with my colleagues to balance these important priorities in future legislation.”

###

Smith Statement in Observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

January 16, 2012

Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09) today released the following statement in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day:

"Let us celebrate the 29th Anniversary of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day by honoring the principles Dr. King used to inspire millions towards justice, equality, and civil rights for all people regardless of ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or economic status.

"His legacy challenges us to remember that through compassion and service to our communities, we can have a society that provides equal opportunity for all individuals ready to achieve their dreams.

"The impact of Dr. King’s work will never be forgotten. His commitment to a more just society continues to inspire us all."
###
« First < Prev Next > Last »