Weekly Columns

In 1986, then President Ronald Reagan introduced a sweeping plan to reform our nation's tax system, and it worked. It simplified the outdated tax code which opened the door for individual prosperity and spurred economic growth. It also became one of the highlights of his presidency. Since then, our society has grown and the value of the U.S. dollar has changed. The working middle-class taxpayer today probably does not have the same priorities as they did in 1986.

In his first appearance to the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, President Trump delivered one of his most consequential and effective speeches since he assumed the presidency. The world had been exposed to the firm rhetoric that President Trump has used in the past, and it is partly the reason why he was elected President of the United States. He is not afraid to speak his mind and has always been dedicated to his message to put America first.

Each year, millions of Americans rely on numerous federal agencies and the government for assistance on a wide range of priorities. Farmers need support for food safety programs. Veterans rely on VA hospitals for medical attention. Researchers need funds to continue programs that range from finding cures for cancer to preventing the next disease epidemic. Through the Constitution, Congress has held the role to authorize and appropriate funds for the variety of programs that the government runs.

There is a rampant health crisis that is destroying families and communities across our nation. Opioid addiction and drug overdoses have turned into a shocking epidemic that impacts people from all walks of life and every corner of our nation. We cannot stand idly by while this scourge steals the hopes and aspirations of our fellow citizens while simultaneously destroying entire communities.

For sixteen years, the United States has been engaged in military conflict in Afghanistan and has maintained a presence there to prevent terrorists from taking over the country and recreating the conditions that led to 9/11. Throughout our time there, our men and women in uniform have diligently eliminated terrorist threats, protected local civilians and supported rebuilding the Afghan defense forces. But as terrorism across the globe changes and grows, we still are facing the challenges of preventing another attack from occurring on our soil.

The August district work period has always been a time that I dedicate to holding town hall and constituent meetings throughout the Fourth District. Last week, I held the first town hall in Ada, and throughout the remainder of the month there will be more in Norman, Midwest City and Lawton. Unlike many other town hall meetings in other parts of the country, my experience has been that Oklahomans – many of whom have diametrically opposing political views – have been civil, respectful and polite.