By REP. PHIL ROE
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
I think often about these powerful words that paved the way for the United States. All these years later, they still ring true. You cannot govern without the consent and trust of the governed, and every citizen should play a role in our democracy. We’re blessed to live in the best country in the world, and we must remain diligent to look at the country through the eyes of great patriots like Thomas Jefferson and John Adams — and hold tight to the liberty they fought so hard to earn.
This week we celebrated the birth of American independence by remembering our country’s founding 242 years ago. On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted to officially declare independence from Great Britain. Thereafter, on July 4, delegates of the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, drafted by Thomas Jefferson. This document displayed the true grit and determination of this great nation; and we commemorate this moment in history on the Fourth of July.
I believe one of my most important duties is to protect and preserve our Constitution. As Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I also believe it is my responsibility to take care of those who have fought to preserve the ideals and liberties that our Founding Fathers established. Just as independence from Great Britain cost many men their lives during the Revolutionary War, the men and women in our Armed Forces are making sacrifices today to protect our freedom. I take these responsibilities very seriously, and I will continue to prioritize these duties as long as I have the great privilege of representing the First District.
It is the duty of Congress and the president to abide by our Constitution and stand by our guiding principles. I’m proud of the strides we have made this Congress towards creating an entrepreneurial spirit in every corner of this great country. I hope that sometime this week you will pause to remember the sacrifices it took for us to enjoy the freedoms we have today.
As always, feel free to contact my office if I can be of assistance to you or your family.