Lower Bucks Today

Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania's First Congressional District was sworn in as a member of the 119th Congress. On this occasion, he introduced a comprehensive legislative package aimed at restoring trust in government and reforming Congress to strengthen American democracy.

"Our nation stands at a pivotal moment," Fitzpatrick stated. "The American people deserve a government that serves them with integrity and accountability. These reforms transcend partisan divides and strike at the core of what our country needs: leaders who are accountable, institutions that are transparent, and a renewed trust in our democracy. By working together—Republicans and Democrats alike—we can rebuild faith in our government and set a stronger course for our future."

Fitzpatrick's reform package is informed by his experience as an FBI Special Agent leading the Political Corruption Unit. It includes four Constitutional amendments and seven bills focusing on congressional accountability, fiscal responsibility, and election integrity.

Key elements of the package include preserving the Senate filibuster through a Constitutional amendment to ensure bipartisan cooperation. Another proposed amendment seeks to limit congressional terms to twelve years across both chambers.

The CLEAN Congress Act requires single-issue legislation from Congress and ensures laws apply equally to its members. The CLEAN Public Service Act aims to end Congressional pensions.

In terms of fiscal responsibility, Fitzpatrick proposes a "No Budget, No Pay" amendment preventing pay if Congress fails to pass a budget. Additionally, he suggests adopting a balanced budget similar to those required by many states.

For electoral integrity, the Let America Vote Act would open political party primaries to Independents or non-affiliated voters while prohibiting non-citizens from voting. The CLEAN Elections Act proposes independent commissions for redistricting to address gerrymandering issues.

Further measures include establishing uniform standards for absentee voting through the Restoring Faith In Elections Act and creating consistent photo ID requirements with the Securing Our Elections Act. The Election Day Act proposes making Election Day a federal holiday.

"This package isn’t about politics—it’s about restoring trust and safeguarding the foundations of our democracy," said Fitzpatrick. "Every leader at the federal, state, and local levels must take a stand: do they support these practical, common-sense reforms or will they defend the broken status quo? If they oppose these solutions, they owe the American people a clear explanation why."

Fitzpatrick has previously served as an FBI Special Agent fighting domestic and international political corruption before representing Pennsylvania's First Congressional District. He has been recognized for his efforts in restoring governmental integrity during his tenure with various committees including Ways and Means Committee and House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.