Washington Update
Legislative Issues
Congressman Womack making remarks during House business.
ICYMI: A few weeks ago, I wrote about my work to stop the White House from stripping resources away from our veterans. After hearing the Biden Administration was considering using Veterans Affairs (VA) resources, doctors, and nurses to help care for the surge of illegal immigrants at our border, I immediately introduced the Veterans First Act, legislation prohibiting the Department of Veterans Affairs from prioritizing the needs of illegal immigrants over our nation’s heroes. My efforts—alongside those of Arkansas Senator John Boozman—paid off. Following the introduction and our sounding the alarm against this dangerous policy, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas testified that the VA “will not be allocating resources to the border.” This is important news, but I will continue tracking to ensure they don’t reverse course. I won’t stand for having the care of those who have proudly worn America’s uniform redirected to deal with the consequences of the White House’s disastrous immigration policies.
This type of oversight of the Executive Branch is a responsibility I take very seriously as your Congressman. It’s why I spent the majority of my week both in hearings and taking action against unwarranted policy. For example, I joined Congressman Scott Franklin (FL-15) and other lawmakers in demanding answers from the Department of Homeland Security regarding the establishment of its “Disinformation Governance Board.” We can see through this thinly veiled attempt for Washington Democrats to grant themselves authority to control free speech.
Congressman Womack asking questions.
First, I have ethical concerns about an organization charged with securing the homeland engaging in activities that could impact speech. Second, I think the Department is overstepping its authority as a domestically focused organization by creating a board that would distract from its existing missions—especially during the ongoing border crisis. Third, the appointment of Nina Jankowicz, a self-proclaimed “internationally-recognized expert on disinformation,” to head up the board is alarming. Ms. Jankowicz’s questionable judgment on matters of disinformation and freedom of speech is numerous. I have asked for DHS answers to the following questions within 30 days:
- Under what legal authority is DHS creating this Disinformation Governance Board?
- What is the Board’s specific directive and mission? What authorities will it have under the Department?
- How does this Board help DHS protect the homeland from threats? Why is DHS putting valuable resources toward a mission that it appears to have no equity in when there is an ongoing crisis at our southern border?
- Why was Ms. Jankowicz chosen to head this Board? Who were the other candidates considered for this position? What qualifications and vetting procedures did the Department utilize when determining who would head up the Disinformation Governance Board?
Read more here.
The defense of democracy is a cornerstone of America. As a senior defense appropriator—who saw the global security implications and urgency in the region firsthand—I also voted to support Ukraine’s fight against Putin. I helped pass critical legislation to protect our interests, build up the U.S. Department of Defense’s weapons stockpiles to ensure our nation’s readiness and lethality against all adversaries, and support freedom against dangerous communist occupiers.
Hearings
Congressman Womack during FSGG hearing.
I participated in a series of House Appropriations hearings throughout the week. On the Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Subcommittee side, I spoke with Roslynn R. Mauskopf, Director of the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts, and Judge Amy St. Eve, Chair of the Judicial Conference Committee on Budget, about the FY23 budget request for the judiciary.
As I said during my remarks, the rule of law is the bedrock of American society. Our Founders wisely designed our judicial branch to protect our constitutional rights and both faithfully and impartially uphold justice for all. An independent judiciary that holds the trust and respect of our citizens, and can resolve criminal, civil, and bankruptcy disputes in a fair and expeditious manner, is fundamental to our nation. In addition, each year the Judiciary’s probation and pretrial service officers perform a critical public safety mission by supervising over 200,000 offenders and defendants living in our communities.
Congressman Womack participates in questioning during House Appropriations hearing.
While this hearing wasn’t on the activities of the Supreme Court, I noted that the leaking of Justice Alito’s draft opinion is disappointing. I am glad that Chief Justice Roberts has ordered an investigation into the leak. I know the vast majority of Judiciary employees are dedicated and loyal public servants. I am hopeful that further leaks do not damage the work of the Supreme Court and all the Federal appellate and district courts.
Regarding the budget, the Judiciary has many funding requirements to keep up with growing court and probation workloads, and to address both physical and cybersecurity threats. However, their fiscal year 2023 request for a $655 million or 8 percent increase over the current year will be difficult to provide. With the national debt over $30 trillion and growing, I believe this Committee must take a careful look at all federal spending and responsibly reduce spending where we can. We have a moral obligation to future generations to get our fiscal house in order. That will certainly mean making tough choices and discerning between wants and needs.
Congressman Womack's view from the dais.
On the Defense Subcommittee, I questioned Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley, and other Department of Defense representatives on America's National Defense Strategy, China as a pacing threat, challenges in Eastern Europe, and the impacts of proposed end-strength cuts. Later in the week, I heard about Air Force readiness and future mission requirements from Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall, Chief of Staff of the Air Force C.Q. Brown, and Chief of Space Operations Jay Raymond. I also participated in a hearing with Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, where I brought up Arkansas transportation issues, 5G spectrum and its impact on the aviation industry and safety, and FAA workforce challenges.
Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce
Arkansas congressional delegation talking policy and legislative priorities to Arkansans from across the state.
The Arkansas presence was extra strong in the Capitol this week! It was great welcoming members of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce into town. Our chambers across the Natural State contribute so much to the economic vitality and strong business environments we boast. We discussed community development projects, supporting job creation, encouraging entrepreneurs, and policies that foster growth. Our priority remains building a stronger and even more vibrant future across our great state.
I also spoke on the House floor to honor the 48 graduating members of Leadership Arkansas Class XVI—many of whom were in Washington visiting with the Chamber. This unique program brings together the best and brightest from across Arkansas to encourage growth and opportunity throughout the Natural State. First introduced in 2005 by the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Arkansas, the initiative has continually grown.
Congressman Womack congratulates Leadership Arkansas Class 16 on House floor.
The 2022 graduates include: Duncan Bellingrath, John Burkhead, Randy Bynum, Chrissy Chatham, Kyle Coggins, Steve Crowell, Lisa Davis, Michelle Dodroe, Jennifer Douglas, Amy Fallon, Bert Finzer, Adam Flock, Mary Kate Harrison, Chad Hearne, Kelly Hellbusch, James Hopper, Katie Parsons, Andrew Huntsinger, Paul Jara, Harrison Johnson, Bruce Jones, Daveante Jones, Megan Lahay, Candice Lawrence, Justin Lieber, Neil Linebarier, Erin Marcussen, Shanna Mears, Nycole Oliver, Paul Parnell, Dillon Patterson, John Peterson, Rachael Potter, Tyson Reimer, Ava Roberts, DeWayne Rose, Clint Schaff, Carlos Silva, Elizabeth Small, Anita Smith, Sandy Starnes, Courtney Strickland, Heather Talley, Beau Walker, Kellie Wall, Matt Westbrook, Tandee White, and Keli Wylie.
To Leadership Arkansas Class 16, including my Chief of Staff, Beau Walker, congratulations! You join the distinguished alumni before you, and I look forward to seeing how you shape the future of our great state and nation!
Learn more here.
Some other pictures of the week:
Shoutout to my good friend and colleague Congressman Steve Scalise for joining the Arkansas State Chamber for breakfast and giving a Washington update. We appreciated your time, insights, and hospitality.
Met with Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall to discuss the Fort Smith FMS mission, Bridge Tanker program, future platforms, and current readiness.
From space to earth, our defense capabilities are critical. Chief of Space Operations General John Raymond and U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff General Charles Brown stopped in to talk about Fort Smith, national security, force modernization, satellite tech, and appropriations. Our total force must be prepared for all threats.
Capital Concerts holds events on Memorial Day and Independence Day to honor our men and women in uniform, their families at home, and all those who have given their lives for the U.S. Each year, I proudly volunteer to help with these programs. I sat down with Capital Concerts Executive Producer Michael Colbert to discuss upcoming events. We are blessed to have so many brave men and women willing and ready to serve our exceptional nation.
I was pleased to show Little Rock Chamber of Commerce members around my office and discuss regional economic development.
Great to have former Arkansas Congressman Mike Ross stop by my office. He got to meet a few of our nation’s defense leaders before our visit began!
Congressman Womack speaking to General Charles Brown, Chief of Staff of the Air Force, after a House Appropriations Defense Subcommittee hearing.
Congressman Womack introducing constituents to Rep. Kevin Hern (OK-1), a native of Russellville and graduate of Arkansas Tech University, during a tour!
Congressman Womack gives Riley one of his challenge coins while in the Capitol!
So happy to have Derek Naegle and Cassie Engelke of Fort Smith in D.C. for a tour of the Capitol! Safe travels back to the Natural State!
Appreciated having Clark Atkins stop in for a tour! We hope you enjoyed your visit and time in our nation's capital! Safe travels back to Siloam Springs!
I will be back in D.C. for legislative business next week. Wishing you a great weekend ahead. You can keep an eye on my website or check out my Twitter and Instagram pages to stay up-to-date with the latest news from my office. |