Rep. Wasserman Schultz Statement on 2016 Election

As we move forward after a hard-fought election, I am deeply grateful and appreciative to my constituents for the privilege of once again representing them in Washington and I will continue to champion the values and issues that matter most in our community – high quality, affordable health care and education, fighting to keep the promise we made to our seniors to protect and preserve Social Security and Medicare, and creating an economy that lifts up working families. These policies and values motivate me every day as I represent the people of South Florida, no matter which party holds the Presidency. In the 115th Congress, we must not allow the progress we have made under President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden to be rolled backwards, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure we build on those achievements.

While many of us are deeply disappointed in the outcome of the election, as Floridians and Americans we must do everything in our power to put our country before politics and move forward. The peaceful transition of power is what sets us apart and helps us serve as a light to the rest of the world. We cannot simply pay lip service to this ideal – we must live it and work with the President-Elect for the good of our country. But most assuredly, we must also work to prevent the implementation of policies that will undo our hard fought victories and ensure we protect all Americans from harmful policies that fly in the face of our values.

I commend Secretary Hillary Clinton – a hero, champion and role model for all of us, but particularly our daughters – for her valiant, uplifting and courageous campaign. She gave voice to millions of people who want America to remain an inclusive and big-hearted nation that welcomes everyone, and she deserves our highest praise. She is a tireless public servant who has been a trailblazer for women around the world and I know she will continue that service in many forms.