[img_assist|nid=1372|title=Donna Edwards|desc= |link=none|align=right|width=83|height=124]It should be hard to keep up with Fourth district U.S. Rep. Donna Edwards (D-Fort Washington), given how active she is. Yet her office works tirelessly at communicating the latest accomplishments of Congress’s newest addition.

This morning, Edwards released a statement celebrating Independence Day and the latest legislation passed by the House Democratic majority.

“For 232 years, our great nation has celebrated its independence each fourth day of July,” she said. “And while this time offers us a wonderful opportunity to enjoy barbecues and fireworks in the company of friends and family, it is also a time to reflect, honor and cherish our rich history as a nation – not always perfect but ever growing and learning from our experiment with governance.”

“As I look back at the progress we have made and the obstacles we have overcome, I am filled with pride and longing for even greater achievements.”

Quoting John F. Kennedy’s 1946 Independence Day message that "eternal vigilance is the price of liberty," Edwards runs through the litany of “unique and daunting challenges” facing the nation today, “such as skyrocketing energy costs, a faltering economy, and the continuing war in Iraq.”

She then cites some of the actions Congress has approved in her first two weeks: extending unemployment benefits by 13 additional weeks, providing $1.7 billion dollars for public transportation, a new GI Bill to restore the promise of a full, four-year college education for veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, and legislation to regulate oil speculation markets.

While unemployment-insurance was signed into law, the others bills will have a much harder time getting past the Senate and White House.

“But,” Edwards says, “I know there is a lot more we can do.”

“We must be vigilant in the pursuit of an energy policy that is tied to economic development, so that we can create 21st Century jobs with industries that strengthen our economy, better our environment, and put an end to high energy costs. We must be vigilant when it comes to providing affordable, quality healthcare to every American, and we must be vigilant in bringing our troops home from Iraq safely and re-engaging in diplomacy throughout the world.”

She concludes with a message “to all who serve throughout the world.”

“Thank you for keeping watch for us.”