Dear Lucas,
On today, Labor Day, I am reminded of all the sacrifices made by workers here in Upstate New York. I am proud to come from the first state to celebrate Labor Day, back in 1882, and the first state to introduce a bill to make the first Monday in September a workers' holiday.
Our country has changed a lot since that first workers' parade in New York City, but the challenges that working people face remain the same. We all want to be paid a decent wage so we can support ourselves and our families and still have a little extra to save for a rainy day.
I remember what it was like when I started my law practice out of school, making sure I could pay my employees before paying myself. That is why I have worked so hard over the years, both as a district attorney and now in Congress, to make sure that I am always considering the needs of working people.
I'm proud of my record fighting to create an environment where businesses can thrive, grow and create jobs without government standing in their way - businesses like Remington Arms in Ilion, which employs over 900 people. Remington Arms recently announced they will hire 200 more people after I secured $5.6 million in funding for the US Army to upgrade over 3,000 M24 sniper rifles.
Sabrina and I wish you all the best. We hope that you and your family are enjoying this holiday weekend.
Mike Arcuri