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During Access! Week—a series of events before, during and after AAM’s annual conference—we hosted a fireside chat with Representative Ann McLane Kuster (D-NH). In addition to serving on the House Committee on Energy and Commerce and House Agriculture Committee, Rep. Kuster is an advocate for strengthening bipartisan cooperation, combating the opioid epidemic and improving access to affordable health care, among other issues. She is co-author of The Last Dance: Facing Alzheimer’s with Love and Laughter. OZY has called her the most wanted woman in Rhode Island.
Read more: What It’s Like to Be a Woman in Congress (Washingtonian March 2019)
Rep. Kuster and AAM Senior Vice President, Policy & Strategic Alliances Christine Simmon discussed a range of topics, including the Ensuring Access to Lower-Cost Medicines for Seniors Act. Sponsored by Representatives Annie Kuster (D-NH) and David McKinley (R-WV), the legislation has the potential to save seniors more than $4 billion annually.
Reflecting on her career, Rep. Kuster highlighted the importance of mentorship and of friends and colleagues supporting each other.
Rep. Kuster said she strives to model a respectful style of leadership
and to demonstrate the value of diversity and inclusion.
She praised male and female politicians alike who are willing to share personal stories in the service of connecting with voters.
Rep. Kuster’s advice for women aspiring to political office: Stay in touch with people. You never know when your college roommate will come through for you.
If you were unable to attend the event, you can watch the recording here.
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By Kristin Murphy, AAM Director of Federal Affairs
Published on June 7, 2021