Weekly Columns
July 10, 2018
It is often said that the United States is a nation of immigrants. Indeed, other than our Native American population, that is true. Historically, the United States has been one of the most generous countries in terms of allowing people born in other parts of the world to legally enter the country and live the American dream. The U.S. currently accepts over a million immigrants a year legally. Despite this generous policy, many people continue to enter the country illegally.
The U.S.
Issues:Immigration
July 2, 2018
As the leader on the global stage, the United States is re-entering an era of military preeminence. Our nation's military needs to be restored to advance America's competitive military advantage to rival those of nation's like China and Russia, as stated in the recent National Defense Strategy. We now believe that the greatest threat to America is not terrorism, but the reemergence of great power rivals like China and Russia.
June 25, 2018
It has been quite a busy week in Washington, D.C., and despite the fervor and fireworks on Capitol Hill, Congress has accomplished a number of legislative items amongst the debate on immigration. Although that debate is still occurring, some of the fundamental work that Congress is obligated to complete has progressed. Each year, Congress is required by law to produce and present a budget that responsibly spends outlines federal spending. However, Congress has been faced with the challenge on how to control and reform excessive spending.
June 19, 2018
What seemed to be once impossible, has finally come to fruition. The President of the United States, Donald Trump, met with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un last week. For the first time in history, a U.S. President and a North Korean leader met in an official capacity in an effort to strengthen ties and reach a peace agreement. President Trump has achieved something previous Administrations have not been able to do.
Issues:Foreign Affairs
June 12, 2018
Our economy is witnessing an exciting change that is affecting millions. With thousands of new jobs and a reformed, working tax system, Americans everywhere are benefitting from the recent economic boost that is bound to deliver continued long-term results. But in just a few short months, our nation's economy has seen the immediate effects of healthy economic and tax policies.
Since President Trump was elected, the stock market has displayed enormous confidence and has repeatedly closed at record numbers.
Issues:Economy & Small Business
June 6, 2018
Our Declaration of Independence boldly states that each of us is endowed by our Creator with certain unalienable rights, and first among these is the right to life itself. I have always read that powerful statement to include the right of the unborn to life, and throughout my many years of political service, I have striven to be a champion for unborn children and vulnerable minors.
Issues:Life
June 4, 2018
In recent years, our country has been ravaged by a deadly epidemic that is destroying communities and families alike. The opioid crisis has been a devastating battle for Americans young and old, and combatting this epidemic has become one of the most significant challenges facing families and communities across the nation.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 115 American die each day from an opiate overdose. That is one American every 13 minutes. In fact, drug overdoses are the leading cause of death among Americans under 50.
May 30, 2018
With global threats from our near competitors and great-state adversaries, improving our military's readiness could not come at a more critical time. Congress is committed to funding improved maintenance, readiness, and personnel accounts while providing key oversight on near and long-term procurement programs to build a modern force. After years of budgetary dysfunction, we must recapitalize our military and ensure it remains a superior and effective fighting force across all domains anywhere in the world.
May 21, 2018
Our nation's veterans, who serve during times of war and peace, have sacrificed a great deal to keep our nation safe and protect our freedoms. It is our duty in Congress to ensure that veterans receive the care they have earned for their service to our country. Although the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has the responsibility to provide a variety of services for veterans, it is also Congress' responsibility to oversee the VA and ensure they operate in the most transparent and efficient manner possible.
Issues:Veterans & Military Retirees
May 16, 2018
Every year, Congress is responsible for establishing legislation through its Appropriations Committees that will fund the federal government for the fiscal year. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I know that the committee is diligent to ensure that taxpayer dollars are used responsibly and for good purposes. Reducing excessive spending and finding places where cuts can be made remains a goal of mine every year, which is critical to addressing the federal debt and long-term spending problems.