On Tuesday, I met with Pasco Police Chief, Ken Roske, Richland Interim Chief of Police, Craig Meidl, and Franklin County Sherriff, Jim Raymond.

We discussed crime rates as well as the efforts to fight the fentanyl crisis in our communities. These are the people on the frontlines, keeping our communities safe and helping me advocate for law enforcement in Washington, D.C.

I'm grateful for the relationships we have built over the years, and look forward to our continued efforts.

On Thursday, I met with the Port of Moses Lake to discuss the urgent need for more power and infrastructure throughout the entire region.

We also discussed the importance of protecting the Lower Snake River Dams, because without the base-load, clean energy provided by hydropower, it will impossible for them to keep pace with the expansion of the area.

The Port of Moses Lake is a job-creator, and ensuring they can continue their efforts is of the utmost importance to our economy.

Thank you for having me!

On Tuesday, I visited the Benton REA to get an update on the Retreat wildfire, which is currently affecting the region and impacting service in our neighborhoods.

We also spoke about the critical need for federal support in order to rebuild and improve systems after wildfires, as well as ongoing mitigation efforts.

Thank you, Benton REA, for your continued efforts to deliver reliable electricity to our communities.

On Thursday, I met with the Grant County PUD and Bureau of Reclamation to offer my full support to bring cutting-edge nuclear technology Central Washington. 

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) provide safe, reliable, and carbon-free energy, and by harnessing nuclear power, we have the chance to be true leaders in making our affordable, clean-energy future a reality.

On Friday, I met with Mayor Estrada, Police Chief Janis, and Commissioner Curtis to discuss the ongoing efforts to make our communities safer.

We spoke about the high levels of homelessness, the fentanyl crisis, and opportunities for the federal government to provide resources to combat these ongoing issues.

I look forward to our continued collaboration and remain committed to ensuring the safety of our region.

This week, my staff traveled to Okanogan for mobile office hours.

Mobile office hours are a great opportunity for folks to come out and let my office know how I can better serve you.

If you are having an issue with a federal agency or want to come ask a question, I urge you to stop by!

Missed this week's session? Don't worry, mobile office hours will occur on a weekly basis.

Next week, join my office on Wednesday, August 7 at Quincy Public Market, 1004 F St NW, Quincy, 98848 from 10 AM -12 PM and North Dam Park, Grand Coulee, 99133 from 1 - 3 PM.

*Due to ongoing wildfires, please check my Facebook page for any updates.

I am pleased to announce the launch of the annual Central Washington App Challenge!

The App Challenge is open to all middle and high school students who reside in or attend a school in Washington’s 4th Congressional District. Students may participate individually or in a team of students up to four. 

The Congressional App Challenge is an event I look forward to every year and a wonderful opportunity for students in Central Washington to demonstrate their technical skills.

I strongly encourage any student with an interest in STEM or computer science to get creative, build an app, and show off your skills on the national stage!

The competition will run until October 24, 2024, and applicants are welcome to submit their application any time during this period. The winning app 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 also be invited to the #HouseofCode reception on Capitol Hill and may be awarded additional prizes, to be announced later.