Hellenic and Orthodox
Champions in the US Congress
Ted Deutch (D-FL)

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Ted Deutch (D-FL)
District:He currently represents Florida’s
19th Congressional District but he is running
at Florida’s 21st Congressional District, located
in Miami-Dade County and including many of
the western suburbs of Miami such as Hialeah,
Olympia Heights, and Cutler
Committee/Leadership Assignments:House
Foreign Affairs Committee, including positions
on the Middle East Subcommittee and the Africa,
Global Health and Human Rights Subcommittee.
Contact: (202) 225-3001, (561) 988-6302

Regarding the state of the US economy, what are the prospects for recovery, and how soon?

The US economy can quickly recover so long as Congress works together after the election to achieve a comprehensive budget and deficit deal that cuts spending but also raises revenue. This will bring confidence and certainty to small and large businesses.

What are some of the particular challenges that you are facing in your district?

Too many families in my district are struggling to find work in this difficult economy. In addition, foreclosures are too common and homeowners are not being able to renegotiate their mortgages with banks as effectively as needed. In addition, seniors are struggling with rising costs but Social Security COLAs are not rising along with everyday prices.

What would you say is the state of our democracy in these challenging and unusually polarized times?

The American democracy is vibrant yet under attack from various threats including the flood of unregulated and secretive funds flooding our elections in the wake of the Citizens United Supreme Court decision. In order to protect our democracy we must enact a constitutional amendment overturning Citizens United to make certain our elections cannot be bought by corporations.

In various polls conducted throughout the U.S. Congress hasn't fared well with the American people. Why is that, in your opinion, and how do you address this issue as Congressman?

Our ratings are low because Congress is too polarized and Members are not willing to compromise with the opposing party. I take a different tact and actively seek to pass legislation with my Republican colleagues. I have succeeded in this regard by passing Iran Sanctions and Veterans legislation into law by working in a bi-partisan manner.

Would you encourage more active voter participation in your decision making as Congressman, using the advances of technology, like the Internet and other forms of communication?

I already do use such technology by keeping in touch with constituents via Facebook, Twitter, and through telephone town halls. The more communication, the better as far as I am concerned.

How did you become interested in the Greek-American community, and who introduced you to them?

My district is home to St. Marks Orthodox church which is community institution. I have been attending the Greek festivals for many years and I also meet with clergy and lay leaders from the parish.

What are your thoughts on the Cyprus issue and what are some of the things you've done to support settlement efforts?

I have encouraged negotiations between both parties as a settlement will only come through direct negotiations. I was pleased to see Cyprus take the EU presidency this summer. Cyprus has been a great friend and ally to the United States. I also strongly encourage oil and gas developments with Cyprus and our other American allies in the region.

Do you consider Turkish provocations in the Aegean a threat to regional stability and international peace? Also, what actions have you taken or do you plan to take to encourage the US to take a stronger stance against this kind of irresponsible behavior?

I have strongly spoken out against any provocations by Turkey against any U.S. allies including Cyprus. I have made it clear to Turkey that as a NATO ally, they must support and foster stability in the region.

Are you aware of the state persecution against the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Turkey and what have you done to address this issue in Congress?

s a Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I am proud to have supported several pieces of legislation in support of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Earlier this year, we passed legislation to ensure the protection of religious sites in Turkey. My colleagues and I have sent several letters urging the Turkish government to recognize the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s important and vital rights.

Since the Bush Administration recognized FYROM as "Macedonia", the country has become more intransigent when it comes to territorial and cultural irredentism against Greece who is a major financial supporter in the region. What kind of action on the part of the US would you promote in order for a mutually acceptable solution to be facilitated?

As FYROM seeks a path to NATO membership, we need to be clear that this issue needs to be resolved. I have supported efforts to include a geographical qualifier in the name.

Neo Magazine and the public policy/lobbying firm of Manatos & Manatos in Washington, DC have come together to present a monthly profile of “Hellenic and Orthodox Champions in the US Congress.
©2012 NEOCORP MEDIA





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