WASHINGTON — A rare moment on the House floor is delivering inspiration. U.S. Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton, who represents Virginia, used a text-to-speech app to deliver a speech on Monday.
Last year, Wexton was diagnosed with a degenerative brain disorder called progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), which affects her ability to speak, hear and move. On Monday, using an assistive app, she introduced legislation to rename the Purcellville post office after former secretary of state Madeleine Albright.
“PSP makes it very difficult for me to speak, and I use an assistive app so that you and our colleagues can understand me,” she said. "I am proud to be here today speaking in support of my bill to rename the Purcellville, Virginia, post office in honor of my former constituent."
Wexton, a Democrat, was first elected to the House in 2018. She represents Virginia's 10th Congressional District, which includes Leesburg, Manassas and Warrenton. Shortly after he diagnosis, she announced she would not be seeking reelection.
Her use of an assistive device received high praise from her colleagues on social media.
Texas Democratic House candidate Isaiah Martin wrote on X, "Congresswoman Wexton is such a fighter man; even in the face of illness that’s robbed her ability to speak, she’s still fighting every day for the folks she represents. Truly an inspiration we all can learn from."
Rip Sullivan, a member of the Virginia House of Delegates wrote, "Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton gets more inspiring each day. With remarkable courage and grace, she continues to dedicate herself to the 10th district. Her constituents are lucky to have her fighting for them."
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