July 9, 2022

Thank you for subscribing to my District Download, a weekly update on what's happening in Washington, D.C. and across Eastern and Southeastern Ohio. I hope you enjoyed your 4th of July holiday. 

A Blast From the Not So Recent Past 

On Wednesday, I stopped at Morgan Oil in Poland (Mahoning County) where gas prices were temporarily lowered to $2.38 a gallon, the average price that it was in January of 2021, before Joe Biden took office. Of course, President Biden and his Administration immediately made a lot of intentional decisions that have resulted in skyrocketing prices at the pump...decisions that have really hurt working Americans. Turn out was massive, and I spoke with many people both getting gas and waiting in line…they were very grateful to be able to fill up at a reasonable price. The event was graciously sponsored by Americans for Prosperity...they are holding these events around the state and country, and were in Steubenville on Thursday.

Outside Morgan Oil in Poland on July 6, where gas prices were lowered to $2.38 / gallon.

Good News for Noble County 

Thursday was a big day for Noble County as Charter Communications (Spectrum) announced and broke ground on a significant investment in the county to expand rural broadband access and services to residents and business customers. Having access to high-speed, reliable broadband internet service is essential in today’s digital world. Reliable internet connectivity isn’t a luxury, it’s a must.

Rural broadband expansion announcement on July 7.

The funding for this project comes from the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF), a $20.4 billion allotment aimed to bring high speed fixed broadband to unserved rural homes and small businesses. Importantly, RDOF ensures that networks stand the test of time by prioritizing higher speeds and reliable connectivity, so those benefiting from these networks will have access to tomorrow’s technologies as well as today’s. Phase 1 of the auction took place in 2020. Prior to the auction, I brought FCC commissioners and former Chairman Ajit Pai to various parts of the region to highlight the lack of broadband service so many face.

Thursday was certainly a good day, and I’m thankful for what Charter is doing – but we need a lot more of these “good days,” and quickly...to ensure the urban-rural digital divide is resolved.

Around the District 

At the Barker House in Marietta with Senator Portman on July 7.

In Youngstown on July 6 at an event highlighting the spiraling costs of energy and commodities.  

On July 7 I visited the Willow island Locks and Dam, which is located on the Ohio / West Virginia border in Newport. 

In Senecaville in Guernsey County on July 7 at the old Seneca Lake Baptist Assembly Camp. A local developer is looking to turn the facility into a tourist and event center.

Congressional Internships 

Have you ever wanted to intern in Washington, D.C. and see firsthand how Congress works? I have an opportunity for you! My office is looking to hire interns for the upcoming fall - and school credit is available. Check out my website for more information on our internship program. 

Thank you again for subscribing to my weekly District Download. If you have something on your mind, you can contact me at one of the numbers below, or send me an email by clicking on this link here to contact me. It is my pleasure to serve you, and I hope to see you around Eastern and Southeastern Ohio soon. 

Click Here to Unsubscribe