Originally published in the Daily Local

WEST GROVE — U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, D-6th of Easttown, discussed a wide range of issues with constituents in the borough on Monday.

There were approximately 50 people in attendance, including the lawmaker’s staff. The Southern Chester County Regional Police Department also was present to provide security at the event, held for nearly one hour at the Avon Grove Library on Rosehill Avenue.

Houlahan shared updates on recent actions taken in Congress, including the founding of an inflation working group by the New Democrat Coalition, a progressive, centrist and pro-business caucus within the U.S. House of Representatives.

Houlahan said her office, which has a staff of 18 people, receives approximately 10,000 calls each month from constituents.

“I know this is a difficult time for many Pennsylvanians, and we’re working hard to address inflation, gun violence, and other issues that are top of mind for our community,” Houlahan said prior to the event in West Grove.

West Grove Borough Manager Greg McCummings moderated the event, presenting questions to Houlahan from members of the audience, who were asked to write them down for consideration at the onset of the event. Questions ranged from inflation to infrastructure.

Also discussed was Roe v. Wade, which was overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court on Friday, sparking national, and in some places violent, protests in cities across America.

While Houlahan said she is pro-choice on abortion, she also told audience members, “I very much respect the position everyone has.”

Further, “We are empowered,” Houlahan said.

“The Court does not make the laws, the people we elect make the laws,” Houlahan said.

Due to the Supreme Court ruling to overturn Roe v. Wade, in a decision that cited the 10th Amendment, the matter was then immediately turned back over to the states. Each state can now decide to either allow, restrict or outlaw abortions.

“Our community and country, by and large, want many of the same things — a sense of security in their job and in their home, a place for their kids to learn and grow, and a balance between responsible government and personal accountability,” Houlahan said after departing from the event in West Grove on Monday afternoon.

“Despite the many challenges in front of us, I’m hopeful of what we are able to achieve together, such as the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, and I remain committed to that work,” she said. “At the end of the day, staying rooted in our community — like we are here in southeastern Pennsylvania — is how we overcome the divisive rhetoric some people are pushing today.”

As previously reported, Houlahan is up for re-election in November where she is vying to keep her seat against Republican newcomer Guy Ciarrocchi, outgoing president and chief executive officer of the Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry.

Pennsylvania’s 6th Congressional District spans all Chester County and some of Berks County including the City of Reading.