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Dear friend,
The events that unfolded this week in Washington, D.C. mark a dark and heartbreaking chapter in American history.
On January 6th, our constitutional role as members of Congress was to certify Joe Biden and Kamala Harris' victory. Our role wasn't to change election results or entertain false claims of widespread voter fraud on the House and Senate floors.
As this process was taking place, a mob of rioters sought to directly interfere with our democracy. They were incited and encouraged by the president's lies and conspiracies surrounding the election. In total, five people lost their lives due to this insurrection, including a Capitol Police officer.
This was a sad and humiliating day for Americans here at home and on the world stage. Countries around the world look to us as a model of a stable government fortified by a peaceful transfer of power. They did not recognize the United States of America as they watched the violence escalate inside and outside the U.S. Capitol.
Our democracy has survived many assaults in the past, and this event was no different. Our institutions and democratic traditions were put to the test this week. They proved their strength once again, but it’s clear that the president is a grave threat to this nation. The Vice President and cabinet should invoke the 25th Amendment to immediately remove President Trump from office. It’s time for the members of this administration who’ve enabled the president to stop the destruction they’ve helped cause.
I want to thank my constituents for their concern during these past few days. I stand with my fellow members of Congress and assure you that we will not be intimidated as we continue to defend our democracy. It's an honor to serve you. Let's get to work.
Click here to read my recent Op-Ed on this insurrection in the Union Tribune.
Information on vaccine administration in San Diego
The county is following state and federal guidelines as vaccines are being given in phases based on priority groups. To determine the groups, the county is working with the community through its COVID-19 Vaccine Clinical Advisory Group.
Click here for more on the clinical advisory group, COVID-19 vaccine phases, details on the authorized Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines and important information for healthcare professionals.
Vaccines give us hope in the fight against COVID-19, but cases continue rising and ICUs in Southern California are reaching capacity. Please continue to wash your hands frequently, wear a mask and practice social distance. Everyone's health and well-being depend on our willingness to do our part.
To support our state's small business sector during this pandemic, the deadline for relief through a state-run grant program is extended until next Wednesday, January 13th. The amount of grant funding ranges from $5,000 to $25,000 and businesses are eligible based on their annual revenue as documented in their most recent tax return. You can apply for relief here.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that the Paycheck Protection Program will re-open the week of January 11 for new borrowers and certain existing PPP borrowers.
This round of the PPP continues to prioritize millions of Americans employed by small businesses by authorizing up to $284 billion toward job retention and other expenses through March 31, 2021, and by allowing certain existing PPP borrowers to apply for a second draw PPP Loan. For more information on SBA’s assistance to small businesses, visit sba.gov/ppp or treasury.gov/cares.
To stay up to date on my work throughout the week, you can follow me on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or need assistance with a federal agency, reach out to us through our website or by calling the district office at 858-455-5550.
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