Dear John,
It was a busy week, but I’m back to keep you in the loop on how I am fighting for our conservative values.
Once again, our nation narrowly avoided a devastating tragedy that could have shaken the very foundation of our Republic. For the second time this summer, there was an attempt on President Trump’s life. Thankfully, the gunman did not injure or kill any innocent bystanders this time. I am deeply grateful for the swift actions of the Secret Service and law enforcement, who protected former President Trump and apprehended the suspect quickly.
This near-tragic incident should remind us all of the dangerous rhetoric that is fueling division in our country. While Democrats continue to portray President Trump and Republicans as existential threats to “democracy,” we must question the true threat when such violent acts target our leaders and the language that enables them.
I had the opportunity to join a panel of agricultural leaders and members of Congress at the Western Caucus Foundation's forum in Boise to discuss the challenges facing our farmers and ranchers. We focused on the burdensome regulations impacting the industry, the critical need for workforce and immigration reforms, and the importance of passing the 2024 Farm Bill. As a representative from one of the most rural districts in our country, I am proud to advocate for solutions that would support farmers, producers, agribusinesses and our communities as a whole, ensuring they have the tools and flexibility they need to thrive in today's challenging marketplace.
I am pleased to see action on one of my key issues this week: the House Committee on Energy and Commerce passed H.Res.139, a Congressional Review Act resolution that would overturn the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' minimum staffing requirement for nursing homes. This Biden administration's one-size-fits-all staffing mandate is likely to result in more nursing homes being forced to downsize or close their doors, potentially displacing more than 290,000 residents nationwide. In the last year, skilled facilities in Benson and Arlington have closed, creating immense stress and hardship for families trying to find alternatives for their loved ones. I will continue to work for common-sense regulations that protect residents and keep these important facilities operating in the communities that rely on them.