Sixth District Perspectives with Congressman Ben Cline: June 1, 2019

Since taking office in January, I have found the federal government to be a tangled web filled with bureaucrats who often know little about places in Virginia like Amherst, Vinton, Monterey, or Woodstock. For the average citizen, it can feel overwhelming when they need to receive assistance or simply get questions answered by someone in a distant federal agency. It can be infuriating.

The government is supposed to work for the people, not the other way around.

I have been fighting in Washington to restore control of the government to its citizens, and as I work to bring accountability back to our federal bureaucracy, I am also available to help you break through the red tape of the federal government. I have established four offices in the Sixth District and staffed them with folks from the area who are ready to assist you in navigating the federal bureaucracy.

Common issues brought to my attention often deal with the Veterans Administration and Social Security, as well as passport renewals through the State Department. Veterans and retirees deserve the benefits they have earned. Travelers vacationing or working out of the country need to have a valid passport that will not expire within six months of their travel dates. We can not only find the right people to talk to in the VA, Social Security, and the State Department, but we are ready to go to bat and file inquiries or appeals on your behalf. Since January, my office has already handled 677 constituent cases. I can’t promise favorable outcomes every time, but we will work tirelessly toward a final resolution to the challenges you are facing with the federal bureaucracy.

It is not just the VA, Social Security, and State Department with which people struggle. I often hear from people who are in a struggle the IRS, need assistance with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, or need assistance in finding or applying for a grant. Even if it’s not a problem with the federal government, we can help give you directions about who to call. You can contact me at the district office that’s most convenient for you:

• Harrisonburg – (540) 432-2391
• Lynchburg – (434) 845-8306
• Roanoke – (540) 857-2672
• Staunton – (540) 885-3861

Town Halls
Last Wednesday night, I hosted my ninth town hall meeting in Virginia’s Sixth Congressional District. More than 30 residents from across Amherst County and surrounding areas came out to bring their concerns to my attention and ask questions about legislation making its way through Congress. I enjoy meeting with constituents, and I value the relationships I develop with each of you. I am humbled by the trust you place in me to take your thoughts and concerns to Washington each week, and I consider them each time I vote on a bill in committee and on the floor of the House.

The next opportunity to meet with you is Monday at 8 a.m. at American Legion Post 199, 411 South Muhlenberg Street, Woodstock, VA 22664. To register, please click here.

If you cannot attend a town hall or would like to express yourself on a specific bill coming before the House, I encourage you to call my Washington office at (202) 225-3772.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your Congressman.