Chet Edwards For Congress

November 1, 2006
Endorsement for U.S. Representative, District 17
By W. Leon Smith|CLIFTON RECORD

Perhaps no other candidate in the state is as attuned to his district than Congressman Chet Edwards (D), who is being challenged by Guillermo Acosta (L) and Van Taylor (R). And perhaps no other elected Congressman has focused more on issues and his constituency, with the willingness to forego party alliances, than Edwards. Very much an independent thinker and doer, his votes have reflected the sentiments that have been espoused by both major parties, largely depending upon what he hears from the people he represents.

But beyond that, Edwards has spent abundant time in the district, getting to know his constituents on a first-name basis, and helping local citizens access important federal government programs. He has fought tirelessly to save the Waco VA hospital. In Bosque County, he played a crucial role in a recent water pipeline project for the Cities of Clifton and Meridian that will provide for future water needs, and he has fought to better enable regional healthcare on behalf of Goodall-Witcher Healthcare Foundation, as just a couple of examples that could be multiplied many times over in this region of Texas.

Edwards has a solid track record of service and is considered an icon when it comes to fighting for the needs of veterans. If only there were more like him in Congress, returning veterans would more fully see their post-service needs answered.

Edwards genuinely cares about the people of his district and has proved it many times over. He says he likes being a U.S. Representative because at this level you don’t tend to lose touch with the people you serve, you can listen to their needs or concerns and help them, and you can make their voices heard in Washington.

Congressman Edwards has earned our respect, our thanks, and our vote.