Today I gave my first speech on the Senate floor. In this great legislative body, Senators across the political spectrum have a long history of coming together to keep our nation safe, to ensure our children, seniors, and veterans are cared for, and to promote policies that create American jobs. In that tradition, we should use the opportunity of a new year and a new Congress to focus on issues that bring the American people together and make our nation and economy stronger.

Unfortunately, on the first day of this session, the GOP leadership chose not to focus on issues that unite us, but instead launched a process that tramples on the rights of Marylanders and is designed to dismantle the Affordable Care Act without presenting any alternative. This isn’t only irresponsible, it’s downright dangerous for those who would lose their access to health coverage. And it would hurt every taxpayer by adding trillions to the deficit.

So I implore my Senate colleagues to examine their conscience and carefully consider the impact of putting their constituents at risk.

I am honored by the faith Marylanders have placed in me to represent them in this great body. I pledge to them – and to all Americans – that I will strive every day to work for the common good of all people.