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Los Angeles Times Essential Politics Newsletter

January 4, 2016

Sarah Wire asked members of California's congressional delegation about goals for 2016.

They ranged from the professional — Rep. Ted Lieu (D-Torrance) said he has ideas about reining in the National Security Agency and Rep. Jerry McNerney (D-Stockton) is looking for bipartisanship — to the lighthearted — Rep. David Valadao (R-Hanford) wants to see more of his kids' swim meets and Rep. Ed Royce (R-Fullerton) hopes to see Cal State Fullerton win the College World Series.

Valadao wants to boost voter turnout in his Central Valley district. Rep. Scott Peters (D-San Diego) wants Congress to expand background checks to cover all gun purchases.

Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Los Angeles) wants to work on implementing consumer financial protections, boost funding to help curb homelessness and work on health issues like Alzheimer's.

With an eye toward leaving Congress in early 2017, Rep. Janice Hahn (D-Los Angeles) wants to pass legislation to honor the service of World War II Merchant Marine veterans.

Rep. Susan Davis (D-San Diego) wants to "Lean in. Lighten up. Live values."

This is Rep. Adam Schiff's daughter's last year at home before college. The Burbank Democrat said he is "keenly aware of how little time Eve and I have left with both kids under our roof" and he wants to spend as much time with his family as possible.

Rep. Mike Thompson (D-St. Helena) has simple goals: "Keep my diet and exercise program going for another year and try not to swear."

Rep. Brad Sherman (D-Sherman Oaks) resolved to "be more responsive to Los Angeles reporters," but also aims to "lose weight."