Congressional Representative Update

U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell and Fred Upton visited the Detroit Economic Club and talked about bi-partisan collaboration to address policy issues. In a discussion moderated by WXYZ-TV Channel 7’s Chuck Stokes, Dingell and Upton highlighted initiatives where Republicans and Democrats are working together to improve the lives of Americans. Upton discussed the Problem Solvers Caucus, a bi-partisan group that works together on key policy topics. “The Problem Solvers Caucus is a valuable group for many reasons,” said Upton. “It is equally divided [between] Republicans and Democrats. We meet every week. In fact, we’re going to meet during this recess. There are several issues we can take credit for together. We had this awful thing called the government shutdown for 35 days. Our group was the glue to bring things back together.” Dingell also emphasized the need for more bi-partisanship and described how various Democratic and Republican leaders came together to work on Great Lakes protection. For example, bi-partisan solutions now exist to smart water management including the reduction of invasive species entering the lakes. “We are all very committed to doing what it takes to protect Michigan,” said Dingell. “We do not look at ourselves as Republicans or Democrats. We may be Michiganders and Michiganians, but we are united in protecting our Great Lakes. Even with our colleagues in the other Great Lakes states.” -- Speakers: The Honorable Debbie Dingell U.S. Representative Michigan - 12th District   The Honorable Fred Upton U.S. Representative Michigan - 6th District   Moderator: Chuck Stokes Director, Editorial & Public Affairs WXYZ-TV Channel 7   Presiding Officer: The Honorable Sandy Baruah President & CEO Detroit Regional Chamber