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Dear Friend:

I am honored to represent California’s 13th Congressional District.

This was a historic session of Congress.  With the leadership of President Obama, we enacted health reform -- guaranteeing every American the right to quality, affordable health care.  Health reform is also a big win for senior citizens as it will close the Republican Medicare prescription drug donut hole, extend Medicare solvency, and eliminate cost sharing on preventive benefits.

Here at home, we've received money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, bringing millions of dollars into our community to create green jobs, invest in energy efficiency, conservation projects, support our schools, hire additional law enforcement officers, restore the bay, and much more. 

We’ve made great progress this Congress, but there is still more to do.  I am anxious to return next year to implement health care reform.  Already, Republicans are appealing to the far right by calling for repeal of the law.  Congress will be working closely with the Administration to assure that we’re able to properly implement health reform, inform the public of their new rights and opportunities, and combat Republican efforts to derail that progress.  As Chairman of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Health, I will assist in this vital effort.

As our economy continues to improve, we must make sure that we have laws in place to assist the recovery and prevent future economic disasters.  Holding Wall Street accountable, enacting strong consumer banking protections, and investing in jobs are all ongoing priorities.

I will also continue working to strengthen our schools, pass sound environmental policies, promote peace, and protect civil rights and civil liberties.

Again, thank you for the honor to represent you.  I ask for your support in my re-election and that of other Democratic candidates in our community who share our commitment to peace, health and prosperity for all.

Sincerely,

Notable News

REP. STARK STATEMENT IN OPPOSITION TO BAILOUT LEGISLATION
There is no denying that we are facing an economic crisis of enormous proportions, but this bailout was not the right approach. Today’s vote is a clear signal that we must work together to provide a solution that is more focused on the families and homeowners who are being hurt by this recession.

San Francisco Chronicle :: Unpopular bailout plan on track in Congress
Democratic Rep. Pete Stark of Fremont, a former banker, said he probably will not support it, calling dire warnings of a credit meltdown "grossly overrated."

"I think we are being railroaded in the same manner we were to vote for Iraq," Stark said. "The banks of the Bay Area are in good shape, and they're bailing out Wall Street for $700 billion. It's irresponsible and reckless."

(Pete's Op-Ed) The Argus :: My Word: A call to end poverty
FOR MOST AMERICANS, the last seven years have not been kind. This was illustrated recently by the U.S. Census Bureau's annual report on poverty, income and health insurance coverage. It showed the need for plans to fight poverty, strengthen the safety net, and build ladders into the middle class.

(Pete's Op-Ed) The Hill :: We must resuscitate the system in order to expand coverage, lower cost
Many people claim the United States has the best medical care in the world. Unfortunately the facts show otherwise. We spend more than any modern nation and have the poorest health outcomes.

Stark Slams Bush, Wows Encinal
Notorious for his spirited elocution, Rep. Fortney "Pete" Stark (D-Fremont) enthralled students of Encinal High School with his witty criticisms of President George W. Bush while addressing their more serious political concerns.

Pete Stark endorses Obama
The Fremont Democratic superdelegate says it's time to unify the party.

Los Angeles Times :: Congressman Revels in His Ultra Liberal Rating
"Others might shun the liberal label, which is about as politically fashionable these days as Earth Shoes and woolly sideburns. Not Stark..."

(Pete's Op-Ed) The Argus :: It's time to close book on Iraq debacle
"On the war's third anniversary, Americans should reflect on the tale of how we got into this mess — and why we must immediately get out..."

(Pete's Op-Ed) The Nation :: Medicare for All
"Medicare has lower administrative costs than any private plan on the market. It enjoys one of the highest approval ratings of any government program. But the most important reason Medicare is the best model for an expansion of healthcare benefits is that the program focuses on patients, not profits..."

Pete speaks to UAW

Pete at anti-war protest

Pete with students