The Hill News

I was incredibly saddened when I heard the announcement by Speaker Boehner (R-Ohio) and Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) that the House page program is to be completely eliminated.

In 1988, I had the unique opportunity to serve as a page in the United States Senate. Not only was I a page, but one for a legend in Robert Byrd. It was an experience that I will never forget. The program taught me life lessons and also provided an insight as to how our government works. I can remember bringing water to the podium for Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.), listening to historic debates, and learning from my fellow pages about their own varied life experiences.

Now, as a member of the House of Representatives, I can see the enthusiasm for our institutions in these young pages. It is an enthusiasm that some members of Congress often forget. We are able to serve in a historic place and these young people remind us of our responsibilities to the folks back ho! me.  

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