Biden Weak on Iran & Supporting Israel

The United States once stood as a beacon of hope, offering unwavering support to our allies in their darkest hours. However, under President Biden's leadership, we've abandoned that norm, first in Afghanistan and now in Israel. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the Biden Administration's handling of the recent attacks on our closest ally in the Middle East: Israel.

On Sunday, April 14th, the skies over Israel were filled with the sounds of booms and air raid sirens as Iran launched over 300 missiles and drones in an unprecedented attack aimed at further destabilizing the region. Despite this onslaught, Israel's Iron Dome intercepted 99% of them. But the threat didn't stop there; Israel faced additional attacks from Hezbollah missiles fired from Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq, as well as from the Yemeni Houthis, all backed by Iran. Hezbollah alone is reported to possess 150,000 missiles, with the actual number potentially even higher. Israel has rightfully vowed to defend itself against these attacks and retaliate accordingly.

In response to this brazen aggression, President Biden's stance has been disheartening. Rather than unequivocally supporting Israel's right to self-defense, the U.S. has remained passive, urging Israel not to strike back. Iran launched a barrage of missiles and drones with the intent to kill innocent Israelis (and Palestinians), yet President Biden asks that Israel refrain from fighting back as if they are the aggressors. By asking Israel not to fight back, President Biden is enabling bad actors such as Iran and its proxy Hamas to continue attacking Israel because they know America is wavering.

Iran is no friend to the United States. Ranking amongst the worst countries in the world for human rights abuses and the rule of law, Iran has consistently undermined and threatened not only the United States but also the United Nations and its own citizens in its pursuit of a nuclear arsenal and dominance in the region.

Yet instead of maintaining maximum sanctions against Iran, last September, on the 22^nd anniversary of the September 11^th attacks, the Biden Administration unfroze $6 billion in Iranian assets. President Biden gave a country that is funding anti-Israel, anti-American terrorist groups access to $6 BILLION.

Additionally, he reissued sanction waivers that gave Iran access to $10 billon and allowed sanctions on Iranian drone and missiles to expire. And, by limiting American oil and natural gas, the price of a barrel of oil has risen dramatically which further enriches Iran and Russia. 

President Biden cannot continue to play both ends against the middle, funding Israel's defense while enabling Iran's aggression. We must unequivocally stand with Israel in the face of Iranian threats and take decisive actions such as imposing stricter sanctions and passing legislation that limits Iran’s ability to finance terrorism. Only by doing so can we uphold our principles and ensure the safety and security of America, our allies in the Middle East and beyond.

Weekly Wrap Up

It was great meeting with the American Academy of Pediatrics to discuss child and adolescent online safety. It's imperative that we work together to ensure the internet becomes a safe and supportive environment for all.

I met with the National Beer Wholesalers Associations to discuss Iowa beer distributors, effective state-based regulations, and ways we can help family-owned businesses create jobs and stimulate the economy. Iowa is the proud home of over 115 breweries that contribute more than $457 million to our economy.

I had a productive meeting with the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry where we delved into important topics like online safety and workforce shortages.

I met with the America College of Emergency Physicians to discuss the patient boarding issues in Iowa. Every Iowan should be able to receive the care they need in a timely manner.

I joined former Chief Patrol Agent of the U.S. Border Patrol in Yuma, AZ, Chris Clem, for an update on the border crisis. Since President Biden took office, over 9 million illegal immigrants have crossed into the US.

I met with leaders from the Iowa Hospital Association to discuss pressing issues such as the recent cyberattacks on healthcare systems and staff shortages in the industry.

I met with the Iowa representatives of the American Academy of Ophthalmology to discuss eye care in the VA, step therapy and reducing prior authorization.

I met with Iowa members of Growth Energy to discuss access to renewable, lower carbon E15 fuel year round.

I met with McCord Research to discuss wound care options and ways to decrease delays in care. McCord Research is headquartered in Iowa where we have a large active military and veteran population benefiting greatly from the excellent work done by McCord.

I met with the American Osteopathic Association to discuss the challenges rural areas face in accessing quality care. Over 1.1 million Iowans live in rural areas. I’m determined to increase access to the care they need.

Committee Hearings

I questioned Secretary of Health and Human Services, Xavier Becerra, in a key Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Health Hearing.

The Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic held a hearing to explore any potential inappropriate influence exerted by the federal government related to COVID-19 over research publications.

The E&C Subcommittee on Health held a hearing to discuss efforts to expand our investigation into sexual harassment at the NIH.

I joined the E&C Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations to examine how improper payments cost taxpayers billions and weaken Medicare and Medicaid.

Floor Speeches

On April 16th, I celebrated National Librarian Day on the House Floor! I am grateful for our librarians and thank them for all they do.

I congratulated Ishika Desai & Nishita Gudipat from Pleasant Valley High School on winning the 2024 Congressional App Challenge! Ishika & Nishita created an app called Orbit that manages the productivity of their fellow students.

I celebrated Iowa’s very own Modern Woodmen Park for once again being ranked the number one minor league ballpark in the country!

I congratulated Caitlin Clark, the University of Iowa’s superstar player, for being selected first overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft by the Indiana Fever! 

I condemned Iran's attack on Israel and expressed my unwavering support for our closest ally in the Middle East as they confront forces of evil.

Constituent Casework

Since assuming office, my team has been busy assisting constituents with issues like veterans seeking VA care, travelers needing urgent passport help, taxpayers dealing with the IRS, and seniors facing problems with Social Security or Medicare. If you need assistance, don't hesitate to contact us. We've helped over 695 people and returned over $2.9 million to constituents. If you're having trouble with a federal agency, reach out, and we'll be glad to assist.

Here are some successful casework stories from this week:

• My office was contacted by a constituent who was experiencing difficulties reaching the IRS regarding their 2022 tax return. In response, we promptly intervened and successfully facilitated the processing of their tax return amounting to $9,254.55, all within 30-days of initial outreach.

• A concerned constituent reached out to my office seeking assistance with their daughter's passport, which was urgently needed for an upcoming trip. Despite initial worries and doubts about the timeline, our swift intervention proved effective. Within just one week of initial contact, we successfully facilitated the issuance of their daughter's passport.

Sincerely,