Chelsea American Legion. Facebook
Congressman Tim Walberg, R-Mich, placed 10th among his colleagues in both the House and Senate for holding 66 town hall meetings since January 1st, 2015. He held one of the most recent meetings at the Hillsdale City Hall on March 3rd.
In response to the recognition for holding so many town halls, he answers with gratitude.
“I always appreciate the opportunity to have meaningful dialogue with my constituents and search for common ground whenever possible to move America forward,” Walberg said.
Walberg said he seeks to communicate with his constituents as often as possible. The large and diverse 7th congressional district requires the congressman to utilize a variety of different ways to hear from his constituents.
“Since I have the privilege of representing a large district with seven counties, it’s a priority to communicate with my constituents on issues that matter to them and in a way that is convenient for them,” Walberg said. “That communication takes a variety of forms, including in-person town halls and coffee hours, tele-town halls, email, social media, and many other media outlets.”
Republicans make up 39 of the top 50 congressional legislators who have held the most in-person town hall meetings over the last two years. Walberg is the only U.S. congressman from Michigan on that list.
Recently, town hall meetings across the country have been filled with angry constituents. Last month, Rep. Jason Chaffetz, R-Utah, and Senator Tom Cotton, R-Ark., were both taken by surprise at the amount of disgruntled constituents, while Rep. Tom McClintock, R-Calif., had to be escorted out for his protection by local police.
Similarly, Walberg faced disgruntled constituents at last month’s town hall in Hillsdale, but not to the same intensity. Many held signs concerning the Republican replacement plan for Obamacare, Russia’s alleged involvement in the 2016 presidential election, and future plans for federal agencies like the Department of Education. He addressed each of the concerns and listened to opinions of those in attendance.
Walberg welcomes the diverse thoughts and opinions at his town halls but hopes they do not turn into shouting matches like those around the country.
“Even when we disagree, I hope we can express our ideas in a civil and respectful way and not turn to disruptive behavior that hinders a peaceful exchange of ideas,” Walberg said.
