I know it’s been an incredibly challenging year for families in Colorado and across the country with the lawlessness, cruelty, and chaos caused by the Trump administration. But it’s people in our community rolling up their sleeves to support one another that continue to give me hope. Despite the dysfunction and chaos in Washington, I’m proud of everything we’ve been able to accomplish together:
I delivered rare bipartisan wins in the minority. Two of my bills were signed into law – one to provide treatment and support for people struggling with substance use disorder. The other makes sure that parents traveling with their babies aren’t forced to throw out their formula or breastmilk.
I introduced legislation to lower skyrocketing costs for families – including health care costs – rein in reckless trade war policies, and strengthen the programs Coloradans depend on.
I partnered with local leaders to secure millions in federal funding for community projects that expand access to affordable child care, support our local economy, enhance public safety, and more.
I’ve been fighting back against the lawlessness of this administration in the Courts, in Congress, and in the community, while also working to find common ground and deliver for working families in Colorado.
We have been out in the community hosting town halls, constituent meetings and events, resource fairs, and more. It’s so critical that I hear from YOU – your priorities guide so much of my work in Washington.
Photo credit: CPR
Rep. Pettersen with Coloradans in Chaffee & Across CO-07
Fighting to Lower Costs Amid Federal Cuts
As I traveled across our community, I consistently heard from families that skyrocketing costs are crushing their budgets – unfortunately, we have a long road ahead of us with the cuts coming from the congressional Republicans and this administration. In Congress, I’ve been working to bring down costs, expand affordable housing and child care, and lower the cost of health care. I’m hopeful for the future because I met with local leaders from Fremont who stepped up to fill in the gaps, including supporting our veterans in the face of federal cuts to VA, maintaining our trails on public lands amid the shutdown, and supporting rural communities with the health care they deserve.
Rep. Pettersen at a food pantry in CO-07
Delivering for Fremont County
One of my most important jobs is making sure our government works for you. My team and I worked around the clock, including throughout the government shutdown, and returned over $6 million in federal benefits back in the pockets of over 1,300 Coloradans. We’re here to help you if you need assistance with a backlogged Social Security check, veterans’ benefits, the IRS, or other federal casework.
Just check out what Chris and Tammy from Cañon City had to say about their experience working with my office:
“For the past nearly 2 years we have been trying to appeal a pending business civil penalty with the IRS to no avail. We'd also had help from our CPA's in addressing the situation, but still no resolution. We felt that part of the problem with this was the fact that the postal service has not been delivering mail timely and we believe that was part of the challenge with our case. We contacted Representative Pettersen's office and we have had the most excellent support and help that resulted in our being able to get this IRS claim solved and in our favor. As small business owners, having them positively resolved has lifted a great stressful and potential financial burden off of our shoulders and that is really huge!”
Rep. Pettersen with CO-7 constituents
Investing In Our Community
I also worked alongside local leaders in Fremont County to deliver $1.5 million to help rehabilitate a closed childcare facility at the Colorado Department of Corrections in Cañon City. I’m grateful for the local leaders and advocates in Fremont County who have been pushing for this project for years. Investing in child care is the best investment we can make in the next generation.
Rep. Pettersen Visits the Boys and Girls Club in Salida
These are difficult times but we are here to support you in any way we can and we will get through this together. I’ll never stop fighting for you and your family. Please stay connected with my team and me. Sign up for updates, get help with a federal agency, or learn more atPettersen.house.gov, and follow along on social media.
I hope you get some time to enjoy your loved ones and rest through this holiday season and look forward to a productive year ahead.
