Sammy’s Mom

Let me clear the air on some of these stories swirling around. The FEC has stated that childcare may be reimbursed. There is a simple reason: we want Congress to look like America. Not just people without children, those with grown children, or those from wealthy backgrounds. It is no news that I am a father of 3 young children and have a blended family. In fact, I'm one of the few members of Congress with young children. And it is no secret that, as part of being a senator, I have to fundraise. It’s the nature of politics, and it is a topic of much debate. But nonetheless, it’s part of the job. Because I’m not a millionaire (I’m one of the least wealthy members of Congress), every month is a game of childcare, travel, and scheduling balancing. I’m not special—it’s what millions of Americans who don’t have the advantages of serving in Congress deal with every day. Most have it even harder than I do. And because of my schedule and the laws passed that allow for it, I will at times bring my wife and children with me to these retreats and fundraisers. Are these at nice venues? Yes, it’s where the donors are, and it’s part of campaigning. I know people have opinions on that, but that’s the nature of the campaign system we have in our country. So these pieces swirling around are accusing me of this: fundraising as all politicians do, but doing it as the father of children under 10. That’s it.

Five years ago, professional athletes were wearing BLM masks on the field. Now, packed stadiums are singing “Country Roads” after Team USA advances in the World Cup. The revolution is actually being televised. Welcome to the Golden Age.