This post originally appeared at https://www.wisconsinrightnow.com/derrick-van-orden-3/
New conservative Wisconsin Congressman Derrick Van Orden has had a very productive first 100 days in office, introducing bills to help military veterans and their families, meeting with constituents and more.
“Today marks 100 days since the 118th Congress convened in Washington, DC on January 3, 2023. Since then, Rep. Van Orden has led a constituent services-first office and delivered results for the people of Wisconsin’s Third Congressional District,” his office says in a press release.
A former Navy SEAL, Van Orden flipped a seat in western Wisconsin that Democrats had held for more than 20 years.
“On my 100th day in Congress, I’m proud of the results our team has achieved on behalf of my constituents,” said Van Orden in the release. “I look forward to continuing to advocate for the farmers, veterans, families, and working men and women who make up the Third District. We are here to help in any way we can.”
In the first 100 days, Rep. Van Orden’s office says he:
- Introduced five bills, including three during his first two weeks in office. In one example. he introduced “two bills designed to expand opportunities for veterans and protect military families – the Ensure Military Personnel Learn Opportunities Yielding Vocations that Employ Transitioning Servicemembers (EMPLOY VETS) Act and Protect Military Dependents Act.” His office says, “The EMPLOY VETS Act improves the process transitioning servicemembers go through as they move from active duty to veteran by ensuring they receive information about employment opportunities. The Protect Military Dependents Act ensures that dependents who receive educational benefits aren’t penalized when a servicemember loses benefits.”
- Sent over 40,000 letters to constituents.
- Closed over 200 cases for Wisconsinites seeking assistance with federal agencies.
- Organized over 100 Washington, DC tours to over 400 constituents.
- Participated in over 70 interviews with local and national media.
- Joined over 25 hearings on the Agriculture, Transportation and Infrastructure, and Veterans’ Affairs Committees.