In his weekly column, Fourth District Congressman Bruce Westerman said capitol feels like it’s getting back to normal.

This week in D.C. was the first in a long time that felt close to normal. As you may know, Speaker Pelosi has slow-rolled the re-opening of the United States Capitol, contrary to what science has proven is safe. Because of this, tours have been closed to the public and visitors have had to take extra steps to enter the office buildings to attend a meeting with their representative. Petitioning your government is a First Amendment right, and these hurdles in place make it more difficult to do so. The threats of the pandemic have lessened, and it’s time for Congress to acknowledge that.

Just because it’s a little harder doesn’t mean it’s impossible. I was excited to welcome Melrita Johnson and Shaina Harvey from Pine Bluff into my office this week to discuss their work with Reform Arkansas, a group that assists at-risk foster children in Arkansas. This was the first in-person constituent meeting in my DC office since March 2020! I am grateful they were willing to go through the extra steps in place to come by. If you are in DC this summer, whether for vacation or for business, please give my office a call. We would love to see you and help make your visit the best it can be.