Update From My Office

Hello, friends!

The past two weeks have been a full sprint! From advancing key priorities in committee hearings and standing firm on national security, to meeting with local leaders, veterans, and community members, I’ve been focused on delivering results and staying connected to the people I’m proud to represent. I am also excited that we passed the 2026 Farm Bill.

I've also been getting up at the crack of dawn almost every morning to go to baseball practice. I'm sore but am also really excited to participate in the Congressional Baseball Game this upcoming June. We recently had a scrimmage match against Capitol Hill Police, which was a great experience!

And this upcoming week, I look forward to making my way around the district! I've visited all 14 counties once and now I am going to start the rounds again!

Assassination Attempt Against President Trump

I am appalled by the act of political violence that took place at the White House Correspondents Association Dinner. I am dismayed that political rhetoric has become so heated and divisive that anyone believes it is acceptable to attempt to assassinate President Trump or his cabinet. This must change—now.

There have been three assassination attempts against President Trump’s life. There is no question that a secure ballroom is a national security imperative. Protecting the leader of the free world and our Commander-In-Chief should not be a partisan issue. The Left’s objection to the construction of this ballroom isn’t only nonsensical, it is hypocritical and dangerous. It is time for the National Trust to drop this lawsuit and for this ballroom to be built.

Read more of the Republican Study Committee's press release advocating for the building of a White House Ballroom here.

Listen to my interview with Matt Murphy on SuperTalk 99.7 WTN about the assassination attempt and why I think it's time to build the White House ballroom, chill the divisive rhetoric, and of course, fully fund DHS.

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The Truth About the Democrat DHS Shutdown

This week, I voted to fund DHS and ensure our homeland security agencies have the resources they need to protect our country. It is absolutely appalling that Congressional Democrats have stood in the way of funding our Homeland Security agencies.

For over two months, Democrats asked the men and women responsible for protecting this country to work without funding—this was unacceptable. Funding lapses don’t just create inconvenience—they create vulnerability. The same agents who put themselves in harm’s way during the recent assassination attempt have been operating without the proper resources. Here are just some of the consequences that have resulted from DHS' 76-day shutdown:

DHS personnel reimbursements have been delayed for months.
CISA is operating at 40% staffing.
45,000 EMTs and Firefighters a week are missing critical emergency training.
Over 780 TSA Officers have resigned.
500+ Utility bills are unpaid for the U.S. Coast Guard.

Read my press release here.

Watch my remarks on the House Floor below:

One America News Network

I was happy to join David Pollack on OANN to talk about Democrats’ nonsensical and dangerous DHS shutdown.

We must fully fund DHS to include CBP and ICE. The Department of Homeland Security was formed to protect the Homeland after September 11th. The ten agencies under DHS operate together and leaving out even one piece of that creates a security gap.

The Farm Bill

I voted YES on the 2026 Farm Bill, also known as the Farm, Food, and National Security Act. This legislation puts our nation’s farmers and ranchers first.

Agriculture is the backbone of Tennessee’s economy—we cannot survive without our farmers.

That’s why I am pleased that this legislation focuses on strengthening agricultural production, rural infrastructure, and domestic food supply chains. I know that Tennessee’s cattle operators, row crop producers, poultry growers, and specialty crop farmers will greatly benefit from stronger risk management tools, expanded market access, and rural infrastructure investments.

I am pleased that Tennessee Farm Bureau, Tennessee Soybean Association, Tennessee Wildlife Federation, the Tennessee Cattlemen, and National Pork Producers all supported this legislation.

Read my press release here.

House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology

During a House Science, Space, and Technology Committee FY27 Budget request hearing, I had the privilege of questioning NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman about NASA’s priorities.

Americans are looking to the stars! We are building a moon base—moving beyond exploration to establishing a sustained lunar presence. Transitioning to commercial space stations—fostering a vibrant space economy in low Earth orbit. Developing advanced nuclear propulsion technologies—propelling us to Mars.

Click below to watch my comments and questions.

In an Environment Subcommittee Hearing, we reviewed President Trump's FY27 Budget Request for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

From facilitating a thriving ocean economy, to unleashing offshore critical mineral collection–NOAA plays a crucial role in sustaining American maritime dominance. More importantly, NOAA serves everyday Americans by providing notice of severe storm warnings, ensuring local governments can take necessary precautions to protect their communities.

Click below to watch my comments and questions.

Markup of the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act

My amendment to the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act aligns with the exciting contributions Tennessee's 7th district has made in Quantum. Recently, Vanderbilt University partnered with EPB of Chattanooga to launch the Institute for Quantum Innovation. This institute will provide Vanderbilt’s leading quantum research programs access to the EPB Quantum Center, the nation’s first facility to provide commercial access to a trapped-ion quantum computer and a photonics-based local quantum network.

Vanderbilt’s efforts prove the U.S. is ready to move from the lab to real work application for Quantum, and with Tennessee leading the way.

Click below to watch my full remarks on my amendment.

King Charles

I was pleased to attend the Joint Session of Congress to hear from King Charles III. His visit underscores the special and unique relationship the United States and the United Kingdom share. From our shared values and shared heritage to our history fighting on behalf of freedom and against tyranny and terror—I am confident that the United Kingdom and the United States of America will continue as close allies and partners.

CHS AI Demonstration

Thank you, House Homeland Committee, for hosting this demonstration. It was concerning to see how “jailbroken” AI models with disabled guardrails can generate detailed guidance for dangerous and illegal activities. The speed, accessibility, and depth of plans the AI models produced underscore a rapidly evolving threat landscape that we cannot afford to ignore. It is crucial that we harness AI capabilities to defend Americans against those who would use this powerful technology for harm.

Read more about this by clicking here.

Nashville VA Visit

We owe our veterans more than just our gratitude—we owe them action, accountability, and access to the care they’ve earned. Thank you to the dedicated professionals at the Nashville VA for showing me around and allowing me to see how you serve our veterans every day.

Dan Mandis Interview

I was happy to join the the Dan Mandis Show on Supertalk 99.7. The one thing I know about the conflict in Iran is that the United States holds all of the cards and is operating from a place of strength.

Republican Study Committee Media Row

Thank you to the Republican Study Committee for hosting media row! Enjoyed speaking with Florida's Voice News, The Daily Signal, Newsmax, and Americans for Prosperity.

Americans For Prosperity

Thank you for having me on to discuss what drives me. I look to my dad and brother’s example constantly, and their commitment to service reminds me that this work is bigger than any one person—it’s about honoring those who came before us and doing our part to leave this country stronger for the next generation.

To watch a clip from my AFP interview, click below.

Florida's Voice

Thank you Florida's Voice for having me on! Tennessee is one of the best places to live, work, and raise a family in the country, and we want to keep it that way!

Thank You Dickson City Fire Department

Dickson Firefighters Terrence Darden, Cole Bone, and Heath Crabtree were awarded their department’s Medal of Valor for rescuing a resident from a March 19 house fire. Their courage and teamwork saved a life.

We’re grateful for their service and for the entire Dickson Fire Department for protecting the community every day.

Read more about these firefighters by clicking below.

Recognizing Courage and Service

These Marines stood their ground in one of the most dangerous moments of the Afghanistan evacuation, facing chaos, uncertainty, and direct enemy threat at Abbey Gate. Their actions saved lives, and their courage never wavered.

We owe our service members more than gratitude—we owe them accuracy in how their sacrifice is recorded and remembered. This is a correction that matters.

Click below to read more about these brave warriors.

Month of the Military Child

In Tennessee, we are blessed to be home to a vibrant and resilient community of military-connected youth. These children embody the true Volunteer Spirit, demonstrating a level of adaptability and courage that inspires us all. From the Great Smoky Mountains to the banks of the Mississippi, their presence is felt in every corner of our state.

To the military children of Tennessee’s Seventh District and across this nation, we see your sacrifice, we thank you for your bravery, and we remain committed to ensuring you have the support and resources you deserve.

We have a responsibility to stand with these families not just in words, but through meaningful action. Through the month of April, I encouraged Tennesseans to honor the service of our military and the sacrifices made by the families and children who stand beside them. Read more from my blog on the Month of the Military Child here.

Read about Clarksville's recognition of the Month of the Military Child by clicking below.

Thank you, General Ross, for reading my Congressional Record at The Tennessee National Guard Month of the Military Child Celebration. Our brave military children deserve recognition for the sacrifices they make alongside their families every single day. Their resilience, strength, and unwavering support on the home front are a vital part of our nation’s security, and we are grateful for all they do.

You can read my congressional record here.

Tennessee Cattlemen's Association

Great to have members of the Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association stop by the office. Always appreciate the chance to hear directly from those who help keep our agricultural traditions strong and our rural communities thriving.

Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association

I appreciate the important work the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association does each day to help keep our communities powered and connected. Thank you for stopping by for a great meeting!

The Nashville Kats Are Back

Glad to see the Nashville Kats back in action, kicking off their season in front of a packed home crowd and coming away with a big win. What an exciting time for the city of Clarksville. Read more about the return of the Kats by clicking below.

Happy Birthday Army Reserve

For generations, the United States Army Reserve has strengthened our nation with skill, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment. Their service is a true force multiplier and a critical part of our national defense. Thank you to all who have served and continue to serve.