Iowa has become a Border State Under the Biden Administration

The current surge in illegal immigration and the trafficking of dangerous substances such as fentanyl has become a national emergency that has directly impacted Iowa. The numbers are startling; Iowa currently houses more than 50,000 illegal immigrants, and since President Biden took office, over 9 million individuals, including 1.8 million "got-aways," have crossed our borders. This influx surpasses the population of 36 different states, including our own.

However, the crisis extends beyond just numbers. Alongside the surge in illegal immigration, we've witnessed a disturbing increase in crime, particularly the trafficking of fentanyl. In just the first four months of 2024, the DEA has seized a staggering 17.9 million fentanyl pills (even more went undetected) - enough to potentially eliminate every Iowan five times over.

The impact of this deadly drug has already been devastating. In 2023 alone, over 112,000 Americans, including nearly 500 Iowans, fell victim to fentanyl. These numbers are expected to rise in 2024. Every death represents a family shattered, a community grieving, and a future extinguished. This is why we need to take urgent action. Fentanyl has plagued our state for far too long.

I grew up near the border; I know firsthand that illegal immigration is a challenge that our country has long faced. However, the scale at which it is happening today is unprecedented. President Obama's Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson once said that 1,000 people coming across our border in a day is a crisis. We now have over 5,000 people coming across our border daily. Many of them have a criminal record or even contagious diseases, but we process them without knowing their background. Under President Trump, we used to have strong policies such as ‘Remain in Mexico’, which required migrants seeking asylum to remain in Mexico until their immigration court date, but President Biden revoked it.

Fortunately, House Republicans have taken action to address this crisis by introducing and passing H.R. 2 - a landmark border and immigration bill. This comprehensive legislation allocates resources to strengthen border security, including the construction of 200 miles of additional border wall and the expansion of Border Patrol personnel to 22,000 agents. Moreover, it enhances screening protocols to prevent individuals from exploiting our immigration system and bolsters enforcement measures to uphold the rule of law.

These provisions are not merely symbolic; they are essential for our safety and security. By fortifying our borders and empowering law enforcement, we can slow down illegal crossings and disrupt the flow of illicit drugs into our communities. The passage of H.R. 2 represents a critical step forward in addressing the Biden Border Crisis and protecting all Americans. I urge the Senate to bring H.R. 2 back to the table so we can begin securing our border, stopping the influx of fentanyl and preventing people on the terror watch list from entering our country.

Weekly Wrap Up

My statement on FISA reforms and protecting Americans

Iowans in D.C.

It is always great to meet with Iowans while they are in Washington! It truly is my favorite part of serving in Congress. Speaking to residents of the First District allows me to stay informed of what is going on in their communities and what I can do to help.

I met with Iowa members of the American Dental Association to discuss medical service costs and the REDI Act, which defers student loans for medical students until they've completed their residency.

I met with LyondellBasell, a cornerstone employer in Iowa's 1st District. We discussed my Recycling Infrastructure and Accessibility Act, regulations impacting the American plastics and chemical sector, and crucial workforce development.

It was great meeting with Iowa Pork to discuss Farm Bill priorities as well as animal disease prevention. Currently, Iowa ranks as the top pork-producing state in the country!

Had a productive meeting with the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. We discussed the shortage of Veterinarians and medicine faculty as well as the National Animal Health Laboratory Network.

I met with Dasia Taylor, Iowa City's impressive STEMBassador. Iowa is home to over 125,000 students who are interested in pursuing careers in a STEM field. It's crucial we continue providing these students with the resources they need to succeed.

It was great meeting with the Infusion Providers Alliance to discuss how the Inflation Reduction Act is hindering access to essential medications in Iowa and nationwide.

Congressional App Challenge

Congratulations to the 2024 Congressional App Challenge winners, Ishika Desai and Nishita Gudipat from Pleasant Valley HS! Ishika & Nishita created an app called Orbit that manages the productivity of their fellow students. I’m incredibly proud of these young ladies and what they’ve accomplished at such a young age.

Healthcare Hero Award

I am proud to have received the Healthcare Hero Award from Aeroflow Health for my work on the DMEPOS Relief Act. This bill would provide payment relief to increase patient access to durable medical equipment such as oxygen tanks and wheelchairs. As a doctor, I will always fight for better healthcare access in Iowa and around the country.

Champion of Biogas Award

Honored to have received the Champion of Biogas award from the American Biogas Council! Iowa ranks 5th out of 50 states for its biogas production potential. We must consider all sources of renewable energy to reduce emissions.

Committee Hearings

This week, the House Veterans Affair Committee held a hearing to discuss the Veterans Affair budget for 2025 and 2026 with Secretary Denis McDonough.

The Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health held a legislative hearing to discuss proposals to support patient access to telehealth services.

The Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy held a hearing to discuss nuclear energy expansion. I believe nuclear energy plays a key role in the future of American energy and am proud to support it.

Floor Speeches

I recognized the University of Iowa Women's Wrestling Team following their historic season. They finished with six collegiate champions and 12 All-Americans as well as the team title for most total points.

I was happy to celebrate Iowa City High School student, Jaxon Robertson's recent honorable mention win in the C-SPAN annual StudentCam competition.

I honored a local hero whose selfless act exemplifies the very essence of courage and sacrifice. Wegayewu Faris, an immigrant from Ethiopia who settled in Coralville, Iowa, displayed remarkable bravery when he risked his life to save an 8-year-old boy from drowning back in 2022.

I celebrated the Iowa Hawkeyes Women’s Basketball Team’s incredible season. Against all odds, this team made it to the National Championship and in doing so, inspired a generation of young girls and boys.

I had the privilege of honoring an Iowa Gold Star Spouse on the House Floor. Erin McSween’s commitment to her daughters and her advocacy, even in the face of loss, epitomizes the resilience of Gold Star families and the enduring spirit of service. May God bless the family of Adam McSween.

I celebrated Camryn Sattler, a standout athlete from Clinton High School. Camryn broke another school record in the 3000-meter run with a time of 10:20.34, showcasing her exceptional talent and dedication.

Sincerely,