In the aftermath of the heinous attacks on Israel orchestrated by the Iran-backed terrorist organization, Hamas, it is crucial to acknowledge Israel's right to defend itself against a repressive regime. Over the past weekend, Israel witnessed unimaginable horrors and faced multiple attempted infiltrations.

Soldiers were brutally attacked, entire families were tragically slaughtered in their homes, and parents lost their lives while shielding their infants from these unspeakable atrocities. The scenes were nothing short of abject horror, and as the lone democracy in the Middle East, we must support them in their fight for freedom.

As a staunch supporter of Israel, I was a primary co-sponsor for the Standing with Israel as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists resolution. This resolution formally denounces Hamas’ brutal war against Israel, reaffirms Israel’s right to self-defense, and re-confirms the United States’ commitment to Israel’s safety and security.

This marked one of the deadliest days in their nation's history, akin to the scale of casualties seen on 9/11. It was a deliberate and calculated attack designed to maximize civilian casualties, which further underscores the need for United States intervention. In Israel’s fight to defend itself, and its citizens, we have an obligation to stand with them.

As our strongest ally in the Middle East, we must stand with Israel unequivocally and fiercely condemn Hamas. The Iranian-backed terror cell must be neutralized—for the sake of national security and democracy.

Our nation has consistently upheld the values of democracy and stood firmly against terrorism, and this situation is no exception. We must extend our prayers for the safety of Israeli citizens and unite our efforts to prevent a repeat of such an attack on their soil.

This week, I introduced legislation which would withdraw the National Park Service (NPS) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) proposed 10(j) rule and the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on the Draft Grizzly Bear Restoration Plan.

Central Washingtonians have consistently voiced their concerns and opposition over the introduction of grizzly bears into the North Cascades Ecosystem, yet unelected bureaucrats from the National Park Service and the Fish and Wildlife Service continue to try to force these predators upon our communities.

These agencies should listen to the people who would be most impacted by these actions and immediately withdraw their proposed rule and draft EIS statement so members of the region can rest safely knowing that an 800 pound apex predator is not going to enter into their backyard.

Grizzly bears possess a bite force capable of devastating a human body within seconds and are infamous for breaking into homes and inflicting fatal maulings. This concern was reaffirmed recently when a grizzly bear, after breaking into a chicken coop north of Colville, was captured, underscoring the real and immediate risk they pose to the safety of people in the area. Not to mention, undermines the need to artificially introduce them into the region in the first place!

Since being elected to Congress, I have consistently advocated on behalf of the people of Central Washington against introducing grizzly bears to our communities; however, it appears the Biden Administration is determined to push forward with this reckless proposal.

As I continue using all means at my disposal to put a stop to this ill-advised plan in Congress, I would encourage my fellow residents to participate in both the virtual and in-person meetings to ensure your voices are heard.

There will be one virtual meeting for this public comment period to present information and provide opportunity for questions on October 17, 2023, from 7:00-8:30 PM PST and one in-person meetings on October 30, 2023, from 5:30-8:30 PM PST at the Okanogan County Fairgrounds.

Don't forget, the Central Washington Congressional App Challenge is still accepting submissions!

This competition is open to all middle and high school students who reside in or attend a school in Washington's 4th Congressional District, is a wonderful opportunity for all students from Central Washington to represent our region and demonstrate their ingenuity and creativity. Students may participate individually or in teams of up to four.

The Congressional App Challenge is now open and will run through November 1, 2023. The winning apps will be featured in the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., on house.gov, and on the Congressional App Challenge Website. Winning students will be invited to the #HouseofCode reception on Capitol Hill and will be awarded additional prizes, to be announced later.

I strongly encourage any student with a STEM background or who is interested in STEM to create an app and show your skills to the country!