Update from Washington
Comment from the Capitol
In this week’s audio recap, I explain the importance of passing full-year appropriations bills and the negative impacts continuing resolutions and government shutdowns have on Third District Arkansans. As a reminder, the government's funding deadline is next Friday! We certainly have our work cut out for us in Congress next week.
I also recap the chaos Democrats displayed on the House floor during President Trump’s Joint Address, which resulted in the House censuring Rep. Al Green.
Listen here!
President Trump’s Joint Address
I had the honor of attending President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress this week. In case you missed it, here was my reaction:
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Censuring Rep. Al Green
If you also watched the Joint Address, I’m sure you noticed the disturbance from my colleague on the other side of the aisle, Rep. Al Green. As mentioned in my Comment from the Capitol, the House voted to censure him, which is essentially a formal reprimand of a member of the House, a step below a full removal from the body.
Not only did I vote YES on the censure resolution, but I was a cosponsor of the resolution, signaling my strong support. I’ve had the honor of presiding over the House floor many times, particularly during contentious votes and heightened emotions. It’s a duty I take very seriously due to my deep respect for the institution. I believe it’s one thing to be cautioned by the Speaker—as I have often reminded people to heed the gavel—but it’s another thing to completely disregard the authority of the Speaker and the decorum of the People’s House. This behavior has no place in the halls of Congress. Mr. Green deserves the consequences of his actions.
House-passed Legislation
Besides the censure resolution, we also voted on legislation to reverse harmful regulations from the Biden Administration, both of which passed with my support:
- S.J. Res. 11: Disapproves the Biden Bureau of Ocean Energy Management’s (BOEM) rule requiring oil and gas lessees and operators to submit an archaeological report for certain exploration or development activities on the Outer Continental Shelf to protect marine archeological resources like shipwrecks and so-called "cultural resources," blocking increases in domestic energy production, weakening energy independence, and raising costs for consumers.
- H.J. Res. 61: Overturns the Biden Environment Protection Agency’s (EPA) harmful “NESHAP for Rubber Tire Manufacturing” rule that establishes new emissions standards for rubber tire manufacturing. This resolution prevents the EPA from increasing compliance costs for the industry and placing a heavier financial burden on smaller businesses, which would result in higher prices for consumers.
Picture highlights from the week:
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My good friend Scotty Bolding, a top-tier oral surgeon in Rogers, was my guest for the president's Joint Address! Thanks for coming, Scotty.
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In a special moment for the Natural State, each member of the Arkansas Congressional Delegation holds a gavel for the 119th Congress! With each of us having the title of "Chairman," we can be frontrunners on policy decisions to benefit Arkansas and our nation. I look forward to our continued work to deliver for our fellow Arkansans!
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It was an honor to meet with members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars from the Third District and across the Natural State. They shared with me their priorities focused on veteran healthcare and benefits, including several legislative priorities focused on continuing support for new studies under the PACT Act, cracking down on unaccredited claims consultants, and continuing different research initiatives for PTSD and cancer treatments. Taking care of those who’ve worn America’s uniform remains a top priority for me.
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I met with Joe Bollinger who is a Benton County Justice of the Peace to discuss Benton County operations and ongoing recovery from the devasting Memorial Day storms. A lot of progress has been made, but I know Arkansas will continue to become stronger than ever before!
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Thank you to Leslie Bland—from the Third District—and Justin Flores of Breakthrough T1D for coming in to discuss the importance of research for type 1 diabetes. They shared scientific breakthroughs that are a product of research investments that can improve the quality of life for people living with type 1 diabetes. It was special to hear stories directly from Leslie and Justin, who are parents of children with type 1 diabetes. I stand strong in my support for medical research to find cures and enhance the lives of Americans.
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Arkansas doctors from the American Urological Association stopped by to talk about the need for more doctors in the state, particularly in NWA. As the population continues to grow, the physician workforce must have the ability to meet our healthcare needs. They also spoke about the administrative burdens that doctors face when it comes to helping patients receive the right treatment in a timely fashion. I will continue to partner with doctors in the district to find ways to ensure they can do their jobs of taking care of Arkansans to the best of their abilities.
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It was an honor to visit with Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner this week! We discussed how to best optimize HUD operations to serve the most vulnerable citizens in Arkansas’ Third and across the nation while protecting taxpayer dollars. As Chairman of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Subcommittee on Appropriations, I will work hand in hand with Secretary Turner on this mission.
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Arkansans from the American Diabetes Association came to discuss the need for research funding for diabetes as well as the importance of prevention and awareness. These meetings are critical to fully understanding what everyday life is like for those living with diabetes and finding ways my colleagues and I in Congress can help.
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I enjoyed having members of the Arkansas Broadcasters Association come to my office to discuss my strong support of broadcasters. I’m a cosponsor of the AM for Every Vehicle Act and the sponsor of the Supporting the Local Radio Freedom Act. Protecting local radio that many Arkansans and Americans rely on remains important to me.
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Public transportation serves communities small and large across the nation by connecting them to people and places. I met with members of the American Public Transportation Association to discuss ways to support our public transportation systems.
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The Boys and Girls Club does important work in Fort Smith and across the Natural State to support youth in the community. The group spoke about how they provide our bright young minds with recreational activities and teach them life skills, such as eating healthy foods and exposing them to potential career paths, all while keeping it fun outside of the classroom. Thank you for all you do!
Announcement!
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Are you a high schooler interested in military service? Come to my 2025 Academy Day! I look forward to hosting high schoolers interested in pursuing Service Academies or ROTC.
Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Location: Har-Ber High School, Marsha Jones Performing Arts Center (Springdale, AR)
Time: 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. CT
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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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