Washington Update
Comment from the Capitol
In this week’s edition of Comment from the Capitol, I provide an update on the status of the appropriations process, despite the absence of a complete budget proposal from the White House. I also discuss developments regarding the reconciliation bill, or the 'big, beautiful bill,' and President Trump's rescissions requests.
Listen HERE.
Protecting our National Flag
In anticipation of Flag Day tomorrow, I reintroduced a joint resolution with Sen. Daines proposing an amendment to the Constitution granting Congress the power to prohibit the physical desecration of the American flag.
The introduction of this resolution could not be more timely, given the utter contempt shown toward the flag this week in Los Angeles, where rioters spit on an American flag as it lay burning on the ground.
Unfortunately, due to a Supreme Court ruling in 1989, Congress does not have the Constitutional authority to protect our flag, and as a result, these individuals cannot be held accountable for their egregious acts.
My proposal reinstates the American people’s power to protect our most important national symbol of freedom, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Read more HERE.
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Appropriations Update
The appropriations process is in full swing, and this week we marked up two of the twelve appropriations bills: Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Defense. Each bill delivers significant wins for the country and the Third District. Here are some of the highlights:
The Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill allocates $152.091 billion in discretionary funding—an increase of nearly $5 billion over the Fiscal Year 2025 enacted level. It includes critical investments in military infrastructure that support readiness and the military families that utilize them, specifically by including funding for construction projects in the Indo-Pacific region and veterans’ health care programs and benefits.
The Defense Appropriations bill provides $831.5 billion in discretionary funding to advance America's military superiority and protect the homeland. As a member of the House Appropriations Defense Subcommittee, I am proud to have helped secure key investments that strengthen national security, including a pay raise for service members, funding for critical munitions programs, and support for research, development, and training initiatives in Northwest Arkansas.
Read more about the bill 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 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Fiscal Year 2026 budget request with Secretary Scott Turner serving as witness. Our conversation centered on strategic budgetary decisions aimed at strengthening HUD’s key programs, ensuring they operate more effectively for the American people now and in the years ahead.
Read and watch more HERE.
Additionally, during a House Appropriations Defense Subcommittee hearing with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine, I questioned them on the importance of equipping the National Guard with the resources needed to meet both current operational demands and future challenges.
The National Guard is an invaluable asset for our armed forces, particularly in situations requiring rapid deployment. We must continue to prioritize its readiness to ensure it remains a strong component of our national defense.
Watch HERE.
On the House Floor…
House leadership brought H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act of 2025, to the floor for a vote. The bill aims to codify the Trump Administration's rescissions request.
For those unfamiliar, President Trump asked Congress to approve a “rescissions” package, which would claw back funding for discretionary spending programs that have already been approved by Congress. As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee—and a firm believer that the power of the purse belongs to Congress—this was a difficult decision. Ultimately, I decided to support the measure as it is a step towards addressing our debt crisis.
Read my full statement HERE.
Additionally, with my support, the House passed the Halt All Lethal Trafficking (HALT) of Fentanyl Act to permanently classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs. This legislation strengthens law enforcement's ability to keep these lethal drugs off our streets and out of our communities.
Photo Highlights
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I had the opportunity to meet with the Alzheimer's Association Arkansas Chapter, where we discussed how federal investments in research can lead to scientific breakthroughs and medical treatments that improve the quality of life for individuals battling Alzheimer’s disease.
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The Community Oncology Alliance met with me to discuss key issues affecting cancer care. Our conversation highlighted the need for policy reforms that would allow doctors to provide more closely coordinated care, ensuring that patients receive the effective treatments necessary in their fight against cancer.
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Additionally, I met with Susan Harper, Consul General of Canada, who closely tracks issues in Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. We discussed her recent visit to Northwest Arkansas and the historically strong partnership between the United States and Canada. She also presented me with an award recognizing jobs created and the strength of our North American partnership.
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Kaden Nguyen, winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for the Third District, and his family attended an award ceremony this week at the Capitol to celebrate his talent. His painting will be on display in the U.S. Capitol for the next year.
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I also had the opportunity to meet the Cox family from Greenwood and their three-year-old son, Dean, who has Cystic Fibrosis (CF). Thanks to advancements in CF treatment and the excellent care he receives at Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Dean is able to enjoy everyday activities and embrace his role as a big brother.
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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. |