U.S. Representative Phil Hare took time to speak to Tobias Gibson’s, assistant professor in the department of political science, Congress class on Monday, Dec. 3. Hare discussed the role of the United States in Iraq and his concern over the state of the economy. Because the political science class had discussed much about the workings of Congress, Hare also discussed the importance of the committees that he serves on: Veteran’s Affairs and Education and Labor. As a veteran himself, Hare is very concerned about the treatment of veterans after they return from the Iraqi front. Additionally, due in large part to his background in the labor movement, Hare noted the impact that he can have over national labor policy by serving on that committee.

Hare took several questions from students related to his reelection goals, the caucus membership and who he endorsed for the presidency.Hare has announced that he will seek reelection and stated that he doubted the Republicans would let him run uncontested. He is a member of several caucuses, including the Alternative Energy caucus, because he believes that his membership benefits his constituents. And, Barack Obama has received Hare’s endorsement. Hare closed by noting that the students might consider an internship in his office, and that the party membership of the student was not important to him.

In a later discussion, most of the students said that they felt like Hare’s attendance was very interesting. Senior Ben Sauer said that although he does not share the congressman’s politics, he felt that Hare’s discussion was well worth the time of the class. Likewise, many in the class enjoyed seeing much of the class’s work this semester illustrated in the stories that Hare shared.

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