Hello Friend,

Welcome to my e-newsletter, the Ready Room. As a retired Naval Aviator, the Ready Room is special to me because it’s where fellow aviators meet to brief and debrief missions. This is my weekly briefing to you on my mission in Congress. Please follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for regular updates on how my team and I are working to serve you in Congress.

SECRETARY MAYORKAS FAILS TO UPHOLD HIS OATH 

The Drug Enforcement Agency seized 386 million deadly fentanyl doses last year. And, just last month, border patrol reported the highest ever recorded month of illegal immigrant crossings. Our open border and the fentanyl crisis that has emerged from it is out of control.  

Last week, the House Homeland Security Committee held their second and final impeachment inquiry hearing into Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas' dereliction of duty which has left our borders wide open for far too long. The hearing featured tragic testimony from victims of violent crime and the fentanyl crisis perpetuated by bad actors crossing illegally under Mayorkas' watch. His absence from the inquiry process also speaks volumes.

Some actions I took to secure our border include: 

✔ Voted for H.R. 2, the Secure our Borders Act, to finish the border wall/fence, hire more agents and fix the asylum system. 

✔ Cosponsored H.R. 661 to ensure criminal aliens are deported and cannot endanger our community.

✔ Voted to hire thousands of new border patrol agents and provide bonuses to retain the talent we have.

INVESTIGATING ALLEGATIONS OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT AT THE VA

Earlier this month, the House Veterans' Affairs Committee voted to further investigate sexual harassment allegations and other misconduct at the VA. After being stonewalled by the VA, credible whistleblowers turned to Congress to take action. The fact that the VA ignored certain cases reported in July 2022 until November 2023, is despicable. Congress must hold them accountable.

That's why I voted to subpoena the Department of Veterans Affairs to demand more documents and records from their internal investigations. Veterans who use VA services every day, and the devoted workers who provide these critical services, should never have to encounter such vile behavior.

CONSTITUENT CORNER

Are slowdowns at the Passport Agencies threatening your exciting spring break vacation? Our office can help you navigate delays or secure an update on your passport. If you need assistance with the State Department's Passport Office, or another federal agency, click here to submit your request or call (863) 644-8215.

Test Your Knowledge #CivicsWithScott!

What role did George Washington play in the 1787 Constitution Convention?

A. He did not attend
B. President of the convention
C. Delegate from New York
D. Secretary of the convention

Last Week's Question

Which city in Florida was the first in the state to debut the automobile in 1900?

A. Miami
B. Orlando
C. Tampa
D. Jacksonville - Correct answer

It is an honor and privilege to represent you in Congress. Please take a moment to fill out my latest constituent survey here. Your feedback helps me better represent you. For more information on constituent services, current legislation, and to sign up for my e-newsletter, please visit my website at franklin.house.gov. 

Best regards,

C. Scott Franklin
Member of Congress