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June 4, 2009 – U.S. Representative Ed Whitfield (KY-01) released the following statement today, announcing his intention to run for re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2010.
“Representing the First Congressional District of Kentucky in the U.S. House of Representatives for the past 15 years has been an honor and a privilege. During that time, I have been fortunate to meet with thousands of constituents and vote on important legislation which has made a positive impact on the everyday lives of Kentucky residents. With our economy still reeling and controversial energy and healthcare legislation being pushed forward that will have an enormous impact on Kentuckians, a strong voice to represent the First District in Washington is more important than ever. That is why I intend to run for re-election to the House of Representatives in 2010. During these tough times, my experience and seniority in the House will help ensure the needs and values of First District residents are best served. With their support, it is my hope I will be able to continue to serve the First Congressional District of Kentucky in the House of Representatives.”
Whitfield Files Papers to Seek Reelection in 2010
Warning of the dangers of a sky-high national debt, soaring unemployment and unaffordable healthcare and climate change legislation currently being considered in the U.S. Congress, U.S. Representative Ed Whitfield (KY-01) affirmed his plans today to continue his efforts on behalf of residents of the First Congressional District in Congress. The Congressman filed papers with the Kentucky State Board of Elections yesterday to run for reelection to the U.S. House of Representatives.
“With our national debt at a record high and legislation pending before Congress which has the potential to impact nearly every facet of our economy and every single American, our nation is truly at a crossroads,” Whitfield said. “The healthcare and climate change bills currently being considered are among the most far-reaching and controversial pieces of legislation ever considered by the United States Congress. During this critical time, it is essential Kentuckians have a strong voice to represent their best interests in Congress. With continued support from Democrats, Republicans and Independents alike, I hope to continue to serve residents of the First Congressional District in the House of Representatives.”
Whitfield, who announced his plans to run for reelection to the House of Representatives in June, is currently serving his eighth term representing the First Congressional District of Kentucky. The Congressman expressed gratitude for the strong support he continues to receive in the First District. He was reelected in 2008 with nearly 65% of the vote, having won all 34 counties in the District, and has $1 million in the bank going into the next campaign.
Whitfield has been a staunch opponent of climate change and healthcare legislation currently being championed by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. The climate change bill passed by the House earlier this year, H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009, could force Kentuckians to pay sky high energy costs during an economic crunch while crippling the Commonwealth’s coal industry with unrealistic mandates. The healthcare bill, H.R. 3962, The Affordable Health Care for America Act, was passed by the House two weeks ago and could decrease the quality of care many Americans receive, hurt small business owners and bury future generations under a mountain of debt. Both measures are awaiting further consideration in the Senate.
“I believe we can find solutions to all of the problems facing our country, but it is essential we work together in a nonpartisan way,” Whitfield said. “As I enter this campaign for reelection to Congress, I am optimistic we will find equitable solutions and adopt policies to stimulate our economy and create new jobs, jobs that we so desperately need.”