Week in Review
America’s Foundational Privilege
The cornerstone of democracy is the ability to freely and fairly choose leaders. The right to vote is part of what makes America the greatest country in the world, where each citizen can make their voice heard. As election night quickly approaches, I know that upholding this sacred right has been top of mind for many Arkansans.
As a reminder, my House Republican colleagues and I voted to promote safe and fair elections by passing the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. While the National Voter Registration Act only allows U.S. citizens to vote in federal elections, that provision is impossible to enforce because there is no requirement to prove a voter is a U.S. citizen. This loophole provides ample opportunity for noncitizens, including illegal aliens, to illegally register to vote by using driver’s licenses and other benefits. Evidence has proven that this loophole has been taken advantage of in previous elections.
A 2014 study that analyzed the 2008 and 2010 elections concluded that not only had noncitizens illegally voted in U.S. elections but also that the votes of noncitizens likely determined the outcome in certain races. In states like Massachusetts, Ohio, and Virginia, noncitizens have recently been removed from the voting rolls, and many of those noncitizens had previously voted. We saw this happen this week, when the Supreme Court reinstated Virginia’s removal of 1,600 noncitizens from voter rolls.
The SAVE Act fixes this problem by strengthening current law and requiring states to obtain documented proof of citizenship in person to register to vote in federal elections. It’s commonsense—only American citizens should vote in American elections.
Although the Senate has yet to act on this bill, rest assured I will continue to advocate for policies to uphold the integrity of federal elections. Voting in U.S. elections is a sacred privilege held by American citizens, and it must be protected.
With that, if you haven’t voted yet, you may learn more about how to exercise your constitutional right by visiting the Arkansas Secretary of State’s website here.
Visiting our Nation’s Future Army Leaders
In my role as Chairman of the West Point Board of Visitors (BOV), it’s my duty to help ensure cadets are ready to lead the U.S. Army to fight and win our nation’s future battles. I do this by hosting BOV meetings, visiting the campus, and frequently meeting with West Point leadership. The success of West Point is essential to America’s national security. It’s an honor to serve as the Chairman of the BOV to aid in strengthening the future of the U.S. Army.
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This week, I was privileged to visit West Point alongside Chief Justice John Roberts! I attended his lecture with Major General (Retired) Joseph Nardotti Jr. and celebrated the 150th anniversary of the Department of Law and Philosophy over dinner with faculty and cadets.
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I congratulated Army’s football coach, Jeff Monken, on his undefeated season so far. The Black Knights are #21 in the nation and looking forward to their game against Air Force this weekend. As always, go Army!
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The highlight of the visit was seeing Carlee Casteel—a star on the Army women’s basketball team who hails from Rogers! I’m proud to see her representing Arkansas’ Third District well at West Point. Hardworking cadets like Carlee are what drives my work as Chairman of the BOV.
Recent Visits Around the District
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Congratulations to Gene and Cheryl Long and the whole team at Sassafras Springs on their brand-new production facility! This is the latest addition to their expansive and beautiful vineyard and winery, and I’m glad I got to see it firsthand. During the tour, Gene and Cheryl talked to me about building their business over the last 10 years, how rising costs are currently impacting their business, and the process of developing their new bottling machine that produces 700 bottles in one hour. It’s clear to me Sassafras Springs is more than just winemaking—although good wine at that—this family-run business prioritizes making people feel at home. Places like this are what make our corner of the state so special!
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It was an honor to be surrounded by the dedicated men and women who have served and continue to serve our great nation at the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) NWA Chapter meeting. As a member of Congress and proud veteran of the Arkansas Army National Guard, I am acutely aware of the challenges and responsibilities that rest upon the shoulders of our servicemembers, both past and present. I shared with MOAA members legislation I’ve introduced to help deliver the care that our veterans have earned, and they presented me with a Certificate of Appreciation for my work. I’m grateful for all these members do to foster camaraderie, advocate for the welfare of our servicemen and women, and ensure that their voices are heard within the halls of Congress.
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Have a great weekend ahead, and I hope to see you around! Be sure to check out my website, Twitter, and Instagram pages in the meantime.
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