Senator Rob Portman delivered the keynote address at the 88th Lincoln Day Banquet on Tuesday. The banquet is organized by the Scioto County Republican Party and is heavily attended by the party faithful.
Before he delivered his address Portman spoke exclusively to the Daily Times.
Portman said coming back to this part of the state was a great experience.
Before the banquet he was able to visit the 14th Street Community Center, which he helped secure funding for, when he represented the area as a congressman.
“It was really fun to see the kids there,” he said.
While at the center Portman was able to ask center leaders why places like that are so important to the community.
“I asked if this center was keeping kids off drugs and they (14th Street Community Center Leadership) said yes, because they (kids) have something to do after school,” Portman said. “One of the problems we have in our country right now is too many kids are getting involved with drugs. It’s ruining their lives and hurting all of us.”
Portman has made combating drug abuse and misuse a top priority for his work in the United States Senate.
Portman has stressed the importance of addressing the drug abuse and misuse through the Comprehensive Addiction & Recovery Act.
He calls the legislation “a comprehensive approach to combating this epidemic and helping those suffering from addiction recover, get their life back on track, and fulfill their God-given potential.”
Portman said while in Portsmouth he was also able to visit the Scioto County Welcome Center. While a member of congress, Portman was able to secure some funding that made the center a reality.
Portman was also able to stop by the murals and attend a political fundraiser.
Portman said the Lincoln Day event gave him the opportunity to reconnect with some old friends.
“It’s just like being home,” Portman said. “I represent 88 counties, but this is one I consider special because I was the congressman here.”
During his address Portman talked about, why the upcoming election is important.
“I think this is an opportunity for the country to get back on its feet and on track, in terms of the economy, in terms of protecting us from terrorism. I think if we don’t get back on track in this election, then the America all of us grew up in will be very different,” Portman said.
Portman is currently seeking reelection to the senate.
The format of the Lincoln Day Banquet also allowed for local party office holders to address those in attendance. Those who addressed the crowd included Brad Wenstrup, Ohio’s 2nd District Congressman; Joe Uecker, 14th District Ohio State Senator; Dr. Terry Johnson, 90th District State Representative along with many others.
For more information about Rob Portman visit www.robportman.com.
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