Update from Washington
I just cast my final vote of the year and 118th Congress—a vote to keep the government operating for Americans, provide disaster relief for Arkansans, and support Arkansas’ farmers and producers. This was to advance a continuing resolution, or CR, to extend government funding through March 14, 2025, which passed the House and will likely pass the Senate tonight to officially avoid a government shutdown.
I want to be clear that kicking the can down the road through a CR is never ideal. We were in this mess because we didn't complete the appropriations process. I’ve long advocated for reforming the budget process, returning to regular order, and avoiding this chaos. However, I supported the CR because it’s better than the original proposal and better than a government shutdown, which would have only harmed the American public and kneecapped President Trump as he is about to take office.
This package also received my support because it addresses the immediate needs of Third District Arkansans and includes provisions I’ve advocated for. Under my Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Subcommittee’s jurisdiction, there’s $122 million included in disaster relief directly for Arkansans who are recovering and rebuilding from the devastating Memorial Day weekend storms. Additionally, it provides much-needed resources to Arkansas' agriculture industry dealing with crop loss, government overregulation, and high inflation.
I hope through a unified government beginning in the new year, Republicans will focus on righting our nation's financial ship and passing full-year appropriations as we advance President Trump's agenda.
ICYMI: Telephone Town Hall
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Thank you to those who joined my Telephone Town Hall on Monday evening! It’s always great to get a pulse on what’s on the hearts and minds of Third District Arkansans. It was a great and productive conversation. In case you missed it, you can listen to the recording here. Stay tuned for more Telephone Town Halls in the new year!
Picture Highlights from the Week:
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Team Womack cheered on Army at the Army vs. Navy game on Saturday! As Chairman of the West Point Board of Visitors, I was sad to see the Black Knights lose. However, each year, win or lose, we’re reminded that we are one team united in defense of our great country.
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My good friend BG Chad Bridges, Arkansas National Guard Adjutant General was in D.C. this week. We discussed Arkansas National Guard Priorities for the upcoming year. I’m grateful for BG Bridges’ stellar leadership and steadfast dedication to the Natural State and our nation.
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I was honored to receive the Distinguished Public Service Medal from the Secretary of the Army for my work in Congress to support the Army and the American people. Even more special was that my former Defense Fellow, Jess Burkett, presented me the award!
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I joined both CNN and KNWA this week to provide updates on the government funding situation and explain the detrimental impacts of government shutdowns on Arkansans. You can listen to the CNN interview here and the KNWA interview here.
Wishing you and yours a Merry Christmas!
Christmas allows us to pause and reflect on the true reason for the season. We rejoice together as we celebrate the birth of the Christ Child, our Savior Jesus Christ. We embrace the greatness and miracles of God, and we spread words of grace and the spirit of giving.
Although this time of year brings great joy and gratitude for many, we must acknowledge the longing and sadness it brings some—especially those who can’t be home for the holidays. A special thank you to our hardworking men and women in uniform, law enforcement officers, firefighters, doctors, nurses, first responders, and all those on duty throughout this season while protecting and serving their fellow Americans. Please join me in saying a prayer for their safety and in appreciation of their service.
God bless Arkansas and America. From my family to yours, wishing you a day filled with blessings of health and happiness. Merry Christmas!
Have a great weekend ahead, and I hope to see you around! Please check out my website, Twitter, and Instagram pages in the meantime.
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