This week, I launched the Central Washington Fentanyl Task Force—a vital initiative aimed at combatting the escalating fentanyl crisis plaguing our communities across Central Washington and the U.S.   Taking a Bold Step Forward in Our Fight Against Fentanyl This week, I launched the Central Washington Fentanyl Task Force—a vital initiative aimed at combatting the escalating fentanyl crisis plaguing our communities across Central Washington and the United States. This task force will be a powerful force for change, bringing together the best minds and resources to tackle the growing threat of fentanyl in our region—local law enforcement, addiction treatment groups, medical professionals, drug court officials, school resource officers, tribal leaders, elected officials, and community leaders. The group will address the entire spectrum of issues tied to the fentanyl crisis, focusing on enforcement, education, prevention, and treatment. We cannot stand idly by while this deadly drug ravages our communities, claiming lives and tearing families apart. The devastating impact of the fentanyl crisis requires an all-hands-on-deck approach, and I am confident this group will be a powerful force for change when joining forces to solve this complex issue. Read More on KOMO News   Honoring Our Nation's Heroes On this Memorial Day, it is of utmost importance that we reflect on the profound debt our great nation owes to our soldiers. Throughout our history, over one million Americans have selflessly given their lives in service to the United States, and today, we gather to honor each and every one of them. In the words of Eleanor Roosevelt, “Freedom makes a huge requirement of every human being. With freedom comes responsibility.” This powerful quote resonates deeply as we reflect upon our American soldiers on this significant day. Throughout generations, courageous young men and women have selflessly offered their lives in service to the United States, and we must honor their sacrifice. Memorial Day serves as a reminder for us to reaffirm our commitment to supporting our living veterans and their families. After serving valiantly, our veterans deserve to come home and receive the benefits promised to them, which is why my office makes it a priority to assist with any veterans’ issues. If you or a loved one needs assistance with receiving VA benefits, lost service records, hard-earned war medals, or any other veterans-related issues, we are here to help. Please don't hesitate to reach out to any of my District offices if you or a loved one requires assistance in these matters. Freedom is not free—we must honor those who paid for it with their lives. I thank God for those who served, and I extend my heartfelt salute to those who continue to fight for the United States of America.   Addressing the International Threat from the Chinese Communist Party Last week, I traveled with other members of the House Select Committee on the CCP to the United Kingdom, where we had discussions with U.K. government ministers, officials, and Members of Parliament about how ot deal with hostile activities by the CCP. Over the past few months, the United States has unmasked some of the countless acts of aggression from the CCP. While the threats from the CCP continue to target us right here at home, it’s important to note their aggression is global. They target free nations around the world, and we must work together with our allies to strategically compete against the CCP’s repressive efforts. It's clear that the United States, the United Kingdom, and free democracies across the globe face common economic, military, and ideaological threats posed by this repressive regime, and we must work together to mitigate its threats. The CCP’s Orwellian model of totalitarian control is not confined to the approximately twelve million Uyghur Muslims trapped in an open-air prison or the nearly one-and-a-half billion Chinese citizens. Rather, it is an insidious ideology that seeks to infiltrate and manipulate free societies worldwide. We must recognize the urgency of the situation and stand united against the CCP's transnational repression and malign influence. We must remain resolute, adaptable, and committed to defending the values that define us. By protecting our citizens, supporting those oppressed by the CCP, and fostering international cooperation, we can build a world where freedom and dignity prevail over oppression and authoritarianism. The challenge is great, but the cause is just, and we must rise to meet it together. Read My Column Here   Continuing the Fight for the Debt Limit The United States has a debt addiction problem. Our national debt is over $31 trillion, which is about $94,000 for every single American. Since President Biden took office in January 2021, he and House Democrats have increased the 10-year spending trajectory by $10 trillion. This kind of reckless spending is unacceptable, and we simply cannot afford it. For the last 100 days, Speaker McCarthy has tried to get President Biden to come to the negotiating table, but he has stalled up until recently. While House Republicans are busy working, President Biden is attempting to skirt his responsibilities and force a bad deal. House Republicans are the only ones who have passed legislation that raises the debt ceiling in a reasonable, responsible, and sensible way while simultaneously addressing our nation's debt crisis by limiting Washington's irresponsible spending, saving taxpayer dollars, and growing the American economy. Make no mistake, if an agreement is not reached and we default on the debt, it will be no one's fault other than President Biden.     National Wine Day This past Thursday was National Wine Day, and I'd like to take a moment to commend the Central Washington winegrape growers. The Columbia Valley American Viticultural Area is one of the nation's most productive, and I know I'll be toasting this success with a glass of delicious Central Washington wine! A Night of Music This Sunday, the Yakima Valley Big Band will be performing at Central Lutheran Church at 6:00 PM. The band plays everything from classic swing songs to modern hits, and band members range from middle school students to retirees. Read More in the Yakima Herald-Republic   It is an honor and a privilege to serve you in Congress. To stay up to date on how I am working to represent Central Washington, I encourage you to follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You can also find regular updates on my website. Sincerely, Dan Newhouse Contact Me     Rep. Newhouse | 504 Cannon House Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20515 Unsubscribe [email protected] Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by [email protected]