“I am proud to represent the people of rural Colorado. For me, the right choice has never been about politics – the right choice is what rings best with rural values. We need to work together and do what’s best for our communities.” – Congressman John Salazar
A veteran and lifelong farmer, John Salazar has put his natural understanding of rural values to work as rural Colorado’s voice in Congress. Congressman Salazar was first elected to the US Congress in 2004, and won his first re-election with a convincing victory in November 2006.
Putting the principles of hard work, honesty, integrity ahead of partisanship, Congressman Salazar has been an effective advocate for rural communities. He is one of only four active farmers in the House of Representatives, and each weekend he returns home to work the land his family has been farming for six generations.
With his seat on the Agriculture Committee, Congressman Salazar is working on the 2007 Farm Bill to protect the interests of family farmers. In Congressman Salazar, local producers have found a strong advocate who understands their needs firsthand.
As the only Coloradoan on the powerful Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Congressman Salazar has been in a unique position to make sure the rural Colorado receives its fair share of federal tax dollars.
Congressman Salazar secured a record $50 million for much needed highway development in rural Colorado. Rural development has been ignored for years, and Congressman Salazar remains dedicated to securing federal funding for local water and development projects
Congressman Salazar is also the only veteran from the Colorado delegation. With a father who served in World War II and a son who served in the National Guard, Congressman Salazar has been committed to keeping the promises our nation made to veterans, service members, and their families.
In December 2006, Congressman Salazar’s Stolen Valor Act was written into law, making it a federal crime for people to wear false military combat medals, or to falsely represent themselves as recipients of such awards.
The Colorado State Board of Veteran’s Affairs recently awarded Congressman Salazar the title “Outstanding Colorado Legislator”. Congressman Salazar’s efforts on behalf of our veterans have been recognized nationally as well, earning him a much coveted seat on the Veteran’s Affairs Committee.
Congressman Salazar and his wife, Mary Lou, have been married for nearly 30 years. The couple has three sons, Jesus, Esteban and Miguel, and one grandson, Charlie.
