Herrera Beutler’s community coffee
Jaime Herrera Beutler
The first question U.S. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Camas, fielded at her “community coffee” gathering at the Camas Library on Tuesday afternoon was, “How is your daughter?”
“I get that question everywhere, it doesn’t matter where I am,” Herrera Beutler said as she poured herself a cup of coffee, explaining that Abigail, her 9 month old daughter, woke up at 4 a.m.
Despite the early wake up call, Abigail is a “true miracle,” the Congresswoman said.
“What’s the prognosis?” someone from the gathering of about 20 people yelled out.
The little girl, who was diagnosed with Potter’s Syndrome, is expected to have a normal adult life expectancy.
From there, the questions quickly went to topics ranging from gun control (Herrera Beutler is not in favor of expanded background checks) to Edward Snowden (“he is not a hero … the damage he did to the defense of our nation is unparalleled) to how to create jobs (more local control, less regulatory hoops).
Rep. Paul Harris, R-Vancouver, fired off a question about Affordable Care Act.
Herrera Beutler said she’s worried about small businesses who have stopped hiring because of the health care costs that could come with new employees.
But, she said, Republicans “fell asleep at the wheel” when it came to health care reform. They had a shot, before U.S. President Barack Obama was in office and they failed to solve the problem.
“It’s time to put a (Republican) plan in writing,” she said, rather than simply voting to repeal the law.
Herrera Beutler is hosting community coffees for local residents through the district. Her office sends out phone alerts to those who live in the surrounding community.
Details can be found on her website at jaimehb.house.gov
Lauren Dake
Lauren Dake covers politics for The Columbian. You can reach her at 360-735-4534 or lauren.dake@columbian.com. Follow her on Twitter .