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Democratic Unity Leads to Strengthening Partnership between Governors and Capitol Hill

Manchin, O’Malley, Culver, Richardson Address House Democratic Caucus in Williamsburg

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Governors Association (DGA) Chair Gov. Joe Manchin III of West Virginia, Finance Chair Gov. Martin O’Malley of Maryland, Federal Liaison Gov. Chet Culver of Iowa, and Gov. Bill Richardson of New Mexico renewed their partnership today with the U.S. House Democratic Caucus in Williamsburg, Virginia.

With so much at stake in the coming year, Democrats are uniting to strengthen the state-federal partnership. “As you know, a strong relationship between federal and state governments is critical as we work to move our nation forward and improve the quality of life for our constituents,” Gov. Manchin said. “By working closely together, we have the unprecedented opportunity to make progress on some of America’s most pressing issues – such as strengthening our economy, increasing our energy security, and expanding access to affordable health care.”

The governors discussed initiatives they are pursuing in their states to create jobs and improve state economies as they work to make America more competitive in the global marketplace.

Gov. Manchin and his colleagues will continue to work with leaders on Capitol Hill throughout the year, focusing on federal legislation particularly important to states. “We hope to be able to provide you with an unvarnished perspective of the implications – both positive and negative – federal policy decisions will have in our states,” Gov. Manchin said at the annual retreat. “We look forward to building on the existing relationship and establishing new avenues of collaboration in the year ahead.”

Democrats hold a majority of governorships (28) and are poised to expand that majority this year. In 2007, the DGA raised a record amount of money. It has $7.2 million cash on hand, more than seven times more than the DGA’s all-time cash on hand record. “The DGA is positioned well to make policy and political gains this year,” Gov. Manchin said. “More and more Americans are embracing the kind of common-sense, results-oriented leadership Democratic governors have to offer.”

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