A Reminder That Ours is a Government of the People, By the People, For the People

Congressman Keith Rothfus [PA-12] released the following video reflecting on our nation's challenges and blessings ahead of Independence Day. The video was recorded on the Speaker's Porch at the United States House of Representatives.

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On the Fourth of July, we celebrate our nation's birthday. The Declaration of Independence articulated a new system of government based on the consent of the governed and the recognition of God-given, unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

It's an incredible privilege for me to greet you from the United States Capitol to reflect on both our blessings and the challenges we face.

Our nation grew from thirteen colonies to fifty states and became a place where people from all over the world and all walks of life could develop their talents and provide a better life for themselves and their families.

I've witnessed that promise over the last eighteen months as I've visited countless workplaces, non-profits, and community events across Pennsylvania's Twelfth Congressional District.

Whether it's been in steel mills, coal mines, power plants, hospital operating rooms, medical device manufacturing plants, technology companies, schools, colleges, elder care centers, restaurants, community banks, veterans' groups, sportsmen's clubs, fire departments, faith-based community organizations, or main street shops, I've heard about the hopes and aspirations of thousands of Western Pennsylvanians.

I've also heard from many of you unease about where our country is, and concern about whether the next generation will be better off than the last.

Many people sense that government is out of control. That it no longer exists to serve the people but instead to serve itself. Scandals at the VA. The broken promises of the President's health care law. A failure to follow immigration laws that has generated a humanitarian crisis on our southern border. A resurgent Al Qaeda. Job killing regulations. Rising food and energy prices. An abusive and arrogant IRS that violated fundamental precepts of public service by targeting political opponents. All are evidence of an out-of-touch Washington, D.C.

This wasn't what our Founders envisioned. The federal government is supposed to serve you -- the American people.

We as Americans yearn to be free, just like the individuals who signed our Declaration.

Independence Day should serve as a reminder that ours is a government of the people, by the people, for the people. That those in positions of authority are not above the law, and that the call to public service is to serve, not control.

This Fourth of July let us reflect on the vision of the Founders and the sacrifices of so many throughout our history who have fought and died for our freedom. We still have tremendous opportunity in our land; let us work with and encourage each other as we set out to relight the American promise first conceived by the Founders, even in these troubled times.

For those who are deployed in the military, you are in our thoughts and prayers -- thank you for your service. May God keep you safe and bring you home soon.

I hope that all of you enjoy this Fourth of July holiday.

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