| As we turn the page to August, that means there are just over three months to go until Election Day. And while we might have wrapped up our week-long tour of the 7th district, our conversation with the voters is just beginning.
On Thursday, we started in Edison, where Robert Riedinger showed me around his independent community pharmacy on Oak Tree Road. Upon entering Devine's Pharmacy, I was greeted with an official sign welcoming me, which was an incredibly kind gesture I very much appreciated. Our independent pharmacists serve an important role in our communities, as millions of Americans rely upon their health care services. It was very helpful to hear about the issues facing pharmacies like Devine's, and it reminds us all why we need real reforms in our healthcare system. Together, we must work together to guarantee every American access to quality, affordable health coverage.
Next it was on to Woodbridge, where I joined local supporters at the famous Reo Diner. It's always nice to stop in and visit with old friends (and as I'm sure you all know, no campaign tour would be complete without a trip to the Reo). Like everywhere I've traveled around the 7th District, families are struggling in Woodbridge. They're struggling to afford the rising cost of everything, from gas to food to healthcare. And they need a leader in Washington who will fight for them, and bring the change they so desperately need. I'm running for Congress to bring that change. With your help, I'll work to get us back on the right track.
The afternoon took me to Summit, where I toured Overlook Hospital. There are some great new facilities which were very exciting to explore and learn more about. Again, I was reminded why our healthcare system needs real reform. Rising costs are a disaster for the middle class, as premiums are skyrocketing and the out-of-pocket expenses are growing everyday.
Meanwhile, healthcare providers are hurting and trying to make ends meet. We need reforms that let us keep our doctors and guarantees choice in coverage, while creating a healthcare system of shared responsibility in which individuals, business, and government must all contribute. In Washington, I'll work to make sure every American has access to quality, affordable healthcare.
I ended the day and the tour at the Summit Democrats' Picnic. Summit is lucky to have the strong leadership of Mayor Jordan Glatt, a terrific Democrat and a good friend. Thank you to Chairman Paul Dillon for organizing a wonderful event, full of energized Democrats who are hungry for change. It wonderful to end my tour of the district surrounded by so many passionate supporters!
Americans are ready for change, and it starts here in New Jersey's 7th District. I know I felt the energy, passion and momentum building behind our campaign for change this past week. And just because the "official week-long tour" has ended, that doesn't mean we are slowing down by any stretch of the imagination.
This weekend I will be at the Carpenters Local 715 Annual Picnic in Clark to meet supporters and talk more about all these important issues. Next week, I will also be making stops at the Hot Summer Nights Concert Series in Summit, Seafood Fest in Flemington, the India Day Parade in Edison. I hope to see you there! |
