Grit -- May 24, 2013
A Note from Congressman Carson
Dear Friend:
This week, yet another community faced unthinkable tragedy as a tornado ripped through Moore, Oklahoma, killing more than 20 people and injuring over 200 others. My heart goes out to those who lost loved ones and all who were injured or lost their homes in Monday's devastating tornado. And I am grateful for the committed efforts of the first responders, who dug through the rubble to rescue survivors and provide emergency care.
While the tornado may have uprooted homes and schools and businesses, nothing can undermine the strength of our nation and our communities. In every town and city across this country, the American people have grit. We rally together in times of struggle, and we help one another rebuild. As we've seen time and time again, from Breezy Point to Boston, Americans will stand by their neighbors as long as it takes.
I will be working with my colleagues in Congress to make sure that state and local officials in Oklahoma have all the resources they need to recover and rebuild. To learn how you can help, please visit the Red Cross here.
As always, it's an honor to serve you.
Best,
André
The Inside Scoop
Legislative Update
The U.S. House of Representatives voted yesterday to approve partisan legislation that links student loan rates to the financial markets, creating a dangerous situation that many experts believe will cost borrowers significantly in the long term. Congressman Carson voted against the bill, citing reports that under the legislation, student debt will increase by $3.7 billion over the next 10 years and borrowers will be hit hard by continued rate increases. President Obama has threatened to veto the bill.
If Congress fails to reach a bipartisan agreement by July 1, the interest rates on subsidized Stafford student loans are slated to increase from 3.4% to 6.8%, doubling rates for more than 7.4 million students. Making higher education affordable for all Americans should be an issue both sides of the aisle can strongly agree on, as the development of a skilled and well-trained workforce is essential to the U.S. maintaining its global leadership role.
In the coming weeks, Congressman Carson will be working with his colleagues to tackle student loan interest rates in a way that makes sense for the American people.
To read more about Congressman Carson's views on education, click here.
Memorial Day
This weekend, Americans will come together to remember those who have sacrificed their lives in defense of this great nation. We owe these American heroes an immeasurable debt, and this day of recognition should serve as a reminder that each and every day we must pursue an America worthy of their service and commitment.
President Abraham Lincoln referred to this sacrifice as ‘the last full measure of devotion,' a bravery that has kept Americans safe and free for more than 230 years. As we remember those who served from the beaches of Normandy to the deserts of Iraq and Afghanistan, we are reminded that these men and women are the foundation of our democracy. On this Memorial Day, we honor these fallen heroes, as well as their families, who continue to carry the legacy of their loved ones with them every day.
BLUE COLLAR, GOLD SWAGGER
Our Indiana Pacers will take on the Miami Heat tonight in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Congressman Carson joins the entire city of Indianapolis in standing behind our team and wishing them the best of luck in pursuit of the NBA Championship.