DeGette Statement on Leadership Decision to End the House Page Program

Statement

U.S. Rep Diana DeGette (CO-1) issued the following statement regarding Speaker Boehner and Leader Pelosi's decision to end the House page program.

"As a long-serving member of the Page Board, I am deeply saddened Speaker Boehner and Leader Pelosi have chosen to end the House page program. For nearly 200 years, the page program has brought young people from around the country into the highest levels of our nation's government, allowing them to see the process of democracy up close. As a result, many of these young leaders have been inspired into a life of public service, launching generations of Americans who embrace the service of our democracy as a calling.

"However, in these difficult fiscal times, I certainly agree that we must review spending programs carefully to determine their value to our institution and to our country. As technology has changed the way we govern, the role of pages in the House has certainly been altered and the formal review of this program made sense. Given the $5 million price tag of the program, it is sadly not a surprise that at this time it has fallen victim to budget cuts as we in Congress work to get our fiscal house in order.

"As Americans' faith in their Congress reaches an all-time low, involving young people in the true process of governing can only help to remind citizens of the ideals that we still strive to achieve. That's why I am encouraged by my conversations with the Leadership about the fact that, despite the end of this historical program, we will continue to work together to develop ways to encourage young Americans to become involved in our nation's highest institutions."

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