My Favorite Time of Year

Each year the Senate adjourns for an extended home state work period during most of August. This tradition gives me a chance to travel throughout Wisconsin, a practice which holds enormous importance for me. Every year I’m impressed by the creative and innovative work taking place in our state. This year was no exception as I visited a small business that specializes in protecting our food supply, a local bank that offers small business loans to spur job creation, and Rotary clubs that highlighted manufacturing success stories.  And – of course – I always look forward to spending time at the Wisconsin State Fair.

In cities from Ashland to Superior, Rhinelander to Milwaukee, Madison to Eau Claire, and Hudson to Wisconsin Rapids, I had a chance to chat with people from around our state and hear what’s on their minds. People are troubled by the current state of our economy and unacceptably high unemployment, and dismayed by the intense partisanship that divides our government.

I want you to know that I am listening to these concerns and am working across the aisle to do my best for the people of Wisconsin. The opportunity to get home and spend time with the people I have the honor of representing in the U.S. Senate is a breath of fresh air and a joy I deeply appreciate. When it’s time to return to Washington each year, I am grateful to bring with me the energy that builds after a few weeks at home and the desire to work hard every day to help move our country in the right direction.