S erving friends and neighbors across the Fourth District of Arkansas in the halls of Congress through drafting and voting on legislation is a great honor, and certainly a major role that Members of Congress play as elected officials. However, there is an equally important role to play while elected to such a position: taking care of the needs of the people represented back home in their everyday lives, through casework and other needed assistance.
The impacts of Federal issues such as Social Security matters, Veterans’ affairs, passports and more don’t take a break for the legislative process in Washington D.C. This is why there are offices spanning the Fourth District staffed with caseworkers who stand ready to help with any questions or tackle any issues constituents may face. No matter what your federal issue may be, these caseworkers are experts in their area, and all constituents are encouraged to seek them out for assistance.
Throughout the months of January and February, our district offices will be hosting casework-specific office hours directly related to Veterans’ affairs, Social Security, Medicare, the IRS, citizenship and immigration services and passports. Every week, representatives will be visiting each district office, including a location in Texarkana, to help constituents directly with their specific needs as they relate to the issue areas previously mentioned. You can find information on the dates and times of these locations at Westerman.house.gov.
I cannot express enough that representing the Fourth District of Arkansas — friends, family and neighbors — is the honor of a lifetime. Because it truly is. Taking care of constituents is a responsibility not taken lightly, and it is encouraging to know that representatives across the Fourth District are well-equipped to serve and assist in any way possible.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
The 119th Congress is in session
As we open the first session of the 119th Congress, returning and new Members of Congress must all be sworn in following the election of the Speaker of the House. As with most everything within our government, the swearing in ceremony and oath of office is rooted in deep history. The very first bill passed by the very first Congress in 1789, which was ultimately signed into law by President George Washington, was “An Act to Regulate the Time and Manner of Administering Certain Oaths.” This bill prescribed the first version of what we know the oath of office to be, and also included the procedure by which the oath of office would be administered. Through the turmoil of the Civil War, the language for the oath was ratified, creating a portion of the oath to swear that the oath-taker would not only support the Constitution in the future, but that the Constitution had also been upheld in the past by said person. Eventually, this oath was repealed in 1884, and changed to the oath we are all familiar with today.
Arkansas makes list for best state to move to in 2024
I’ve been proud to call the state of Arkansas home my whole life. And it seems as though others from across the country are eager to call the Natural State their home, too. In a Fox News article, Arkansas proudly sits at the top of the list for the most popular state to move to in 2024. It’s no secret that our state boasts some of the most stunning natural beauty in all of the United States, and Americans are moving to the state in droves to have better access to the numerous outdoor recreation opportunities offered, in addition to more job opportunities and more affordable cost of living. From the Buffalo National River, to the stunning views at Hawksbill Crag at Whitaker Point, and the scenic state Highway 7, Arkansas is certainly not lacking in beauty and outdoor opportunities. I look forward to welcoming more friends and neighbors to our great state as we enter into the new year.
How can we assist you?
Constituent services remain my top priority as your Congressman. If you are ever in need of assistance with a federal agency, have questions about your passport application, know a student interested in our internship program, would like to visit the U.S. Capitol, and more, you may contact my office at any time. Visit westerman.house.gov/services to learn more about how my team may be able to assist you. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact us by visiting westerman.house.gov/contact to leave a message, or call (202) 225-3772.
Bruce Westerman represents Arkansas’ Fourth District in the U.S. House of Representatives.