Stivers, Wenstrup address issues in local visit

CHILLICOTHE — U.S. Congressmen Steve Stivers and Brad Wenstrup made a joint appearance Monday during an hourlong visit to the Chillicothe Country Club and discussed a number of issues ranging from the Affordable Care Act, opioid addiction and workforce development.

Stivers and Wenstrup, who spoke to the Rotary Club, briefly shared their military background with those in attendance before shifting their focus to the importance of serving others and being able to give back whenever possible. Stivers also addressed ongoing problems with opioid addiction across the country, saying the issue is one that won't be solved quickly.

"We've got a lot of work to do to fix this crisis in our country," Stivers said.

He said there needs to be a way to deal with treatment while attempting to reduce the demand, adding that there needs to be "a complete approach" to the issue that will involve collaborating with multiple parties.

"It's going to take a lot of effort, and it won't be easy," he said. "We've got to have a coordinated approach and work together."

Meanwhile, Stivers and Wenstrup also weighed in with their thoughts on the Affordable Care Act, commonly known as Obamacare, during a question-and-answer session with attendees. Stivers said he is in favor of repealing the ACA and replacing it "with something that can get people access to care at an affordable rate."

Both men also said they were in favor of helping more people get jobs while lifting them out of poverty, while Stivers also noted that he supports having young people go into the skilled trades industry.

He said the country needs to do a better job in terms of workforce development, noting that it will be important because of retirees leaving the workforce, meaning that there will still be a need across the country.

"We got to make sure we replace them and train them," Stivers said.