DIXON, CA (MPG) - When Congressman Mike Thompson D-Solano introduced his staff to a group of people in downtown Dixon recently, one may have been surprised at how many things his staff can help with.

The Congressman, who has been the Napa representative for ten years, went on a meet-and-greet tour of the towns added to his representation through the newly redrawn districts. They are Vacaville, Dixon, and Rio Vista. He wanted people to put a face to the name, he said.

“We’re here to work for you,” he said before beginning introductions. “We are the bridge between an agency and the constituent. Agencies are required by law to respond to a Congressman. We are here for you guys.” Many of the staff were born and raised in Northern California including his Chief of Staff, Melanie Rhinehart Van Tassell who has been with him for 12 years now. She is a legislator correspondent and grew up in Napa. Emma Tomaszewski, who schedules the Congressman’s time, is from Marin and went to college in DC. Karina Giudice is from Santa Rosa and handles the military service academy recommendations.

There are at least six specific areas his staff can help with although other areas of concern may also be addressed.

As a Vietnam combat veteran, Congressman Thompson’s office can help with recovering benefits and pension payments, assist with claims, and survivor benefits. He can help with requests for burials and give assistance to active service members. The office can also help secure appointments with their VA doctors.

In talking about youth programs, the Congressman spoke of a “prestigious art program” that students can apply for, and Herb Cross from the Dixon Chamber of Commerce Business Education Committee inquired about getting students more involved in the Congressional Student Leadership Council. After touting another “worthwhile program,” he encouraged Cross to connect with Field Representative Brendan Sweeney.

“We want people to learn about public service and have outstanding opportunities for students. I think it really helps to understand the issues in public and the private sector,” the Congressman said.

Immigration and naturalization assistance flag requests, academy nominations, as well as social security and Medicare benefits are also concerns that his staff can usually help with.

The Congressman then fielded a variety of questions including the manufacturing of computer chips and bipartisanship.

“I go to Washington to get things done,” responded Thompson. “I’m as bipartisan as I can be. I will work with anybody. But I’m not a compromiser on social security. It is the most successful system America’s ever had and kept millions out of poverty. It is a lifesaver and to take it away would take one leg of a stool. It would be devastating,” he said. He reported that social security checks are spent at home and “serves as an incredible economic driver in the community.” When Cross asked if there was anything the democratic party could do to get a healthy conversation going with republicans, the Congressman said, “There are extremists in both parties. We don’t need extreme. We need people who will get the job done.”

After the meeting, the Congressman posted on social media, “Dixon is a new part of our district after redistricting, and community gatherings like these help my staff better connect with the new constituents and communities for which they are working. We enjoyed hearing about their issues and look forward to continuing our work on their behalf.”

The nearest office is the Woodland District Office at 622 Main St., Suite 106, Woodland 95695 and phone is (530) 753-5301. He also has offices in Napa, Santa Rosa, and Washington, DC.