June 6, 2025

Washington Update

Comment from the Capitol

In this week’s edition of Comment from the Capitol (CFTC), I provide an update on the FY26 appropriations process and discuss the recent dust-up between tech-mogul Elon Musk and the President of the United States, adding in my thoughts on what the feud could mean for the recently passed reconciliation package.

Listen HERE.

In the Hearing Room…

This week, I led the House Appropriations Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD) Subcommittee hearing on the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) fiscal year 2026 budget request with FAA Acting Administrator Chris Rocheleau serving as witness.

It’s fair to say that air travel has faced significant challenges this year, with a seeming surge in aviation accidents and airport complications. One of my priorities is to address these issues by providing robust funding for the FAA, helping them achieve their goal of ensuring a safer and more efficient airspace.

The reality is that the infrastructure supporting our increasingly crowded and complex airspace is outdated and must be modernized. A glaring example of this is the urgent need to transition from antiquated copper wire systems to fiber optics.

In my opening remarks and questions to the Acting Administrator, I asked how the FAA will utilize the funds appropriated by my committee to ensure timely aviation infrastructure upgrades and adequate staffing, while also sustaining and maintaining their current services across all departments.

Read and watch more HERE.

At a House Appropriations Financial Services and General Government Subcommittee hearing with Russell Vought, director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), I asked him how we can get our fiscal house in order by rightsizing our massive mandatory spending problem.

For those unfamiliar, OMB is one of the most influential offices within the executive branch and is responsible for ensuring the President’s vision is executed across the federal government, including preparing the annual budget request.

Watch HERE.

On the House Floor…

This week, the House passed several important bills which I proudly supported:

The American Entrepreneurs First Act, which ensures that taxpayer dollars from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are directed toward eligible American business owners, not illegal aliens.

The Save SBA from Sanctuary Cities Act, which mandates the relocation of SBA offices out of sanctuary jurisdictions where elected officials refuse to enforce federal law, jeopardizing public safety.

The SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act, which invests in opioid and fentanyl overdose prevention and community resources to combat substance use disorders.

Telephone Town Hall

This week, I hosted a telephone and virtual town hall to connect with constituents and answer questions on a wide range of issues, including the budget, the One Big Beautiful Bill, and much more. I always value the opportunity to hear directly from you as it strengthens my ability to serve and advocate for the needs of the district.

While I regularly meet with constituents both in Washington, D.C. and back home, town halls provide an additional platform for open dialogue and thoughtful discussion. Listening is where representation begins.

A huge thank you to everyone who joined, shared their perspectives, and asked insightful questions about the challenges and opportunities facing the Third District. Your input is invaluable, and I look forward to continuing these conversations.

If you couldn't join us live, no worries—catch up now by listening HERE.

Photo Highlights

Back in the district, I had the privilege of celebrating the Harris family for being named the 2025 Benton County Farm Family of the Year. Their dedication to farming and community service strengthens the county, boosts the local economy, and provides homegrown food.

I ran into the Arkansas Realtors who were in town to discuss the growth of the Northwest Arkansas region, the need for increased housing inventory and supply, and the importance of tax relief to help prospective homeowners and realtors.

I met with Arkansas Highway Commissioners Keith Gibson and Philip Taldo, along with ArDOT Director Jared Wiley, to discuss the ongoing need for investment in major roadways across Northwest Arkansas. As the region experiences rapid growth, infrastructure improvements to key routes like I-49, Highway 112, and Highway 412 remain a priority. We also discussed the upcoming Surface Reauthorization bill.

I met with representatives from Cox Enterprises to discuss their wide range of business operations in addition to the critical role of Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program funding in supporting Arkansas's connectivity.

Have a great weekend ahead, and I hope to see you around! Be sure to check out my website, X, and Instagram pages in the meantime.

From the front...

Congressman Steve Womack
Arkansas Third District