WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins released the following statement after voting against H.R. 3726, the Castle Nugent National Historic Site Establishment Act of 2009.

“Despite double-digit unemployment and a skyrocketing deficit, Speaker Pelosi called the House of Representatives back yesterday afternoon for three votes to congratulate a university on its 150th anniversary and two universities for winning NCAA Championships. While these schools should be commended, congratulating them did not reduce the deficit or create any jobs.

“At the same time, voters in Massachusetts went to the polls and sent a signal they were not going stand for the status quo in Washington. By electing Republican Scott Brown, Massachusetts voters said they are tired of the out-of-touch policies coming out of Washington and that they want a Senator to fight for the issues affecting their daily lives.

“Speaker Pelosi, unfortunately, didn’t hear their call because today she had the House vote on the Castle Nugent National Historic Site Establishment Act of 2009, legislation to spend nearly $50 million to buy beachfront property on a Caribbean Island. I opposed this bill because it does not address the challenges facing our nation. Kansans sent me to Washington to represent their needs, and I will continue fighting for responsible solutions to create jobs and grow the economy.”