Weekly Columns

Last week the nation's Capitol was probably one of the safest places in the country. It received an extra measure of safety because thousands of law enforcement officials from across the United States came to lobby Congress, honor fallen heroes and participate in other activities that mark the annual National Police Week.

Last week the President urged Congress to pass legislation to help curb the rising costs of food worldwide. For months, Africa, Asia and other parts of the developing world have been experiencing waves of discontent and widespread hunger because of food shortages.

Earlier this week I spoke with constituents from the Fourth District about a number of national issues that are heavy on the minds of Oklahomans. There is no doubt that two of the most pressing issues are the price of gasoline and its relation to the overall state of the economy.

Memorial Day and summer vacations are just around the corner for many families. But this year, Oklahomans may find themselves forced to cut down on their drive time to their favorite vacation destinations.

Over seven months ago General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker each delivered first-hand accounts of the status of the mission in Iraq. Last week those men returned to Congress to give another report to the American people.

Last week I had the opportunity to join several of my colleagues in a meeting with Federal Reserve Board Chairman Ben Bernanke. During that meeting Chairman Bernanke discussed the importance of the government taking responsible and timely actions to address the problems facing our housing market.

It's that time of year again - time for individuals and families to file their yearly tax returns. Those who finished their taxes early are ahead of the curve, but those who have not are scrambling to get their taxes ready to file.

As we reflect on the past five years since the beginning of the conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan, it is important to recognize the progress that has been made, as well as the enormous sacrifices that were required to make that progress possible.