Hello, my name is Jason Kassel, PhD. I am a Democratic candidate for Congress who is challenging Rep. Tom McClintock. I am sure this seems early to you for a challenger to reach out, but there are approximately 59 weeks before the primary. I want to let you know a bit about my governing beliefs well before then.
When it comes to the District’s vintners, I support the goals and objectives of WineAmerica and the Wine Institute. I also fully support the Democratic Congress’ and President Biden’s 2023 Omnibus Appropriations bill.
The Wine Institute supported the following Omnibus provisions:
● $4.3 billion – Wildfire suppression operations
● $148.8 million – Technology upgrades for Craft Beverage
Modernization Act
● $5 million – U.S.D.A. research into winegrape smoke exposure
● $500,000 – Eradication of the spotted lanternfly
● Extension of the Emergency Relief Program (formerly known as the WHIP+ Program) to cover financial losses suffered by winegrape growers due to natural disasters in 2022.
Additionally, the Omnibus “encourages” the National Agricultural Statistics Service to conduct a national vineyard acreage survey, something it hasn’t done for over a decade. This survey is one of WineAmerica’s top policy priorities. If elected, I will work closely with local and national vintner associations and immediately advocate for new or continued funding to execute the NASS survey.
If you send out newsletters, I would love to be able to communicate with your membership. If you ask Rep. McClintock for comments on legislation, I would also appreciate the opportunity to add my voice. It is difficult for a challenger to establish himself because most people won’t think about elections until election year. I believe it is important to introduce myself and let your members know that I am asking for their vote and I care about their federal needs.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Jason Kassel
(559) 696-7153
jason@kasselforcongress.com
www.KasselforCongress.com