With the re-election of five Greek-Americans to the House of Representatives with the addition of one newcomer totaling six, there is hope that Greek-American interests will only be strengthened. The re-elected members include Democrats, John Sarbanes from Maryland, Dina Titus from Nevada, Charlie Crist from Florida, Chris Pappas from New Hampshire, Republican Gus Bilirakis from Florida, and the newly elected Republican Nicole Malliotakis from New York. This unifying force of Greek-Americans in congress will not only help express our concerns as Greek-Americans but concerns facing Greece, Cyprus, and the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
It is more important than ever that we stand united and create an atmosphere of awareness of our Greek national issues and issues of importance to the Greek-American community. It is not enough for only our community to be educated on these matters. American society should also be made aware. It is our civic duty to make sure that our politicians locally and nationwide are made aware of our issues. Additionally, it is our civic duty and responsibility to support our Greek-American legislators, regardless of their party, get appointed to office, and support their efforts while in office.
Many Hellenes and Philhellenes elected to office are supporting the Hellenic Caucus which was founded by Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) and former Rep. Michael Bilirakis (R-FL). It is now co-chaired by Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and Rep Maloney, as Rep. Michael Bilirakis retired in 2006. The Hellenic Caucus focuses on Hellenic issues and strives to advance diplomatic relations between the United States and Greece.
Let’s continue to support our elected Greek-American officials in office and help those that are striving to achieve to make to office. Let’s continue to make our voices heard. Together, we can do much more.
Here is what the Greek-American politicians had to say on their election:
Congressman John Sarbanes (D-MD):
“Democracy wins. Love wins. Equality wins. Justice wins.
Looking forward to working with President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris as we fight #COVID19, rebuild our economy, clean up corruption in Washington, #ActOnClimate, advance racial justice and end police brutality, lower the cost of health care and prescription drugs, improve gun safety and deliver the kind of positive and empowering change that the American people want to see.
I am deeply grateful to the voters for re-electing me to Maryland’s 3rd Congressional District. As our country continues to face major challenges, I will work my hardest to ensure we have a government of, by and for the people that advances fairness, justice and a decent quality of life for every family and every community.”
Congressman Gus Bilirakis, (R-FL):
“Serving as your voice in Washington, D.C. is one of the greatest honors of my life. Thank you for giving me the privilege of representing you for another term. You have my solemn commitment that I will do everything in my power to fight for you and our community. I am proud to live in a nation where civil discourse is encouraged. It has been a challenging year with people on all sides of the political spectrum vigorously advocating for their vision of how we can best solve our nation’s challenges.
Now more than ever, it is important for us to remember that we are all Americans. We must continue to work together to find common ground and chart a course that restores our way of life, rebuilds our economy and renews the American dream.”
Congresswoman Dina Titus, (D-NV):
“As I return to serve the constituents of Nevada’s First Congressional District in Congress, I keep the Hellenic values taught to me by my grandfather close to my heart. I will continue to oppose the conversion of Hagia Sophia from a museum to a mosque, stand up for human rights and religious freedom around the world, and bolster security in the East Mediterranean.”
Congressman Charlie Crist, (D-FL):
“I am honored to serve the 13th Congressional District for another term! Regardless of your party affiliation or who you voted for on Tuesday, I am committed to working for you, the people of Pinellas County. Thank you!”
Congressman Chris Pappas, (D-NH):
“I send my sincere congratulations to President-Elect Joe Biden and Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris. Our country needs to unite with common purpose, and I am confident that these two leaders can bring Americans together and move us forward. There is critical work ahead including defeating COVID-19 and bringing our economy back from the brink – and we all have a role to play. This work begins by coming together as a nation, and I look forward to working with the incoming administration and leaders in both parties to solve these challenges.”
Congresswoman-Elect Nicole Malliotakis, (R-NY):
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Without your support, this wouldn’t have been possible… I want to thank each and every one of you for your commitment and support throughout my campaign.”
