A letter from Congressman Lynch to the residents of the 9th Congressional District:

Thank you for taking the time to visit my site and to consider me for re-election to Congress, representing you and your families. Since I was first elected in the Democratic Primary on that fateful day of September 11, 2001 I have never lost sight of the reasons you sent me to Washington. I promised you then that I would do everything in my power to represent the hard working people of my district - to reflect your views, echo your concerns, and roll up my sleeves to get things done on your behalf. And I have spent every day of my time in Congress trying to do just that. I try to bring a common sense approach to my work - to not get caught up in the partisan bickering and the pettiness that sometimes rules the day in Washington - but rather to work with like-minded individuals in Congress to get things accomplished for my district and for America.

Washington can be a funny place, and sometimes common sense is the first thing to go when the race is on to pass a piece of legislation. My first consideration, and my last consideration, is always how any piece of legislation will affect you - the people of my district who have sent me here to do a job. Sometimes, I am surrounded by legislators who share my views, and sometimes I find myself alone on a vote - but all the while, I have a firm belief that I am making the right decision for the people I represent. I have never been afraid to stand alone in Washington when I know I am standing up for all of you back home.

We have a lot of serious work ahead in Congress. Our country is facing one of the most challenging times in our nation's history. People are out of work, overburdened by an ever-increasing national debt and we are still a country at war. Since I began in public service, I have worked hard to tackle the tough issues that we face as a country. I have tried to represent all of my constituents, to listen and be respectful of all points of view - regardless of party affiliation or political persuasion. That is a tradition I hope to continue as your Congressman in the future.