WASHINGTON – The Senate is back in session after the August work period.
Last month, I had the opportunity to travel throughout West Virginia and hear about the issues that are most important to you.
While back in the state, I heard an overwhelming amount of opposition to the president’s nuclear deal with Iran.
I, too, am deeply concerned with the Iran deal, and will be voting against it.
My specific concerns with the president’s agreement include:
* The weak inspections and little enforcement mechanisms in the deal.
* The windfall of cash that will flow to Iran, the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism, once sanctions are lifted.
* And the argument that our only option is this agreement or war. This narrative is simply wrong.
This is just one of several challenging issues the Senate will tackle this fall.
We are also working to fund the government before the new fiscal year begins in October, and to reauthorize critical federal highway programs that are set to expire next month.
I am proud that the Senate was able to pass a bipartisan, six-year transportation funding bill this summer, and I’m hopeful that we can reach an agreement with the House on a long-term bill that will benefit West Virginia’s roads and bridges.
I am also continuing to lead the charge against President Obama’s destructive Clean Power Plan.
In July, the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee passed my bill to roll back this clean power grab.
I am optimistic about the bill’s prospects and will be working to build more support in the coming weeks.
This fall we will also work on a Congressional Review Act resolution, which would permanently block the Clean Power Plan. I will be leading this effort on the Senate floor.
On a lighter note, I would also like to update you on a few housekeeping items.
My Charleston office has recently moved to new office space, which will provide greater accessibility and convenience for constituents.
My website has also been updated in order to better serve West Virginians.
Please visit www.capito.senate.gov to view the new website, learn more about my new Charleston office and sign up for our newsletter.
Capito, a Republican, is West Virginia's junior U.S. Senator.