John,
It’s been a busy week in Washington: Democrats made a spectacle of themselves at President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress, President Trump issued a final warning to Hamas, and we are working to support our farmers. But through it all, I wanted to keep you updated on our critical work.
President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress was a historic moment. He outlined a bold, conservative vision to restore America to greatness while masterfully handling unruly Democrats. Their outbursts and refusal to stand, even for a young cancer patient or the family of slain Laken Riley, were nothing short of embarrassing. It’s unfortunate that they couldn’t put politics aside, even for a moment. The takeaway for the average viewer was that Democrats are not interested in finding common ground.
As President Trump touted his extraordinary wins—securing more than $1.7 trillion in manufacturing investments, dramatically reducing illegal border crossings, and cutting government waste and fraud—Democrats sat silent. These are achievements every American should celebrate, yet they chose partisanship over progress. President Trump also laid out a forward-looking vision to put the United States on the right track. He called on Congress to extend the 2017 tax cuts, pass a budget resolution prioritizing border security and defense, and advance his America-First energy policies. The contrast couldn’t be clearer: while Democrats sulk, President Trump leads, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance and pass his agenda.
President Trump issued a final, unequivocal warning to Hamas: release the hostages or face annihilation. This declaration came after he met with former hostages, who detailed the horrors of their captivity. The conflict in Israel has dragged on for far too long, and these innocent people must be brought home. It is shameful that this crisis escalated under the Biden administration, which failed to secure the hostages' release. President Trump understands that strength is needed if diplomacy fails. With his clear and decisive action, President Trump is committed to bringing Americans and Israelis home and ending this conflict. His leadership is a reminder that when our nation stands firm and strong, the world takes notice.
Family farms are the backbone of western Minnesota, built through generations of hard work, perseverance, and sacrifice. But Washington’s unfair Death Tax puts that legacy at risk. Unlike what the Democrats claim, this isn’t about protecting billionaires; it’s about ensuring that family-owned farms aren’t forced to sell off land to pay a crushing tax bill. With land values rising and farm income fluctuating, many farmers find themselves asset-rich but cash-poor. When the federal government demands up to 40% of an estate’s value, it can mean the difference between passing down the family farm or losing it forever. No farmer should have to break up their legacy because of an unfair tax on land their family already paid for and worked tirelessly to maintain. This is why I’m proud to cosponsor Congressman Randy Feenstra’s Repeal the Death Tax Act. Farmers already navigate unpredictable weather, volatile markets, and rising costs—Washington shouldn’t be another obstacle. Repealing this tax is about more than financial relief; it’s about protecting the heritage, livelihoods, and future of Minnesota’s farm families.
As always, thank you for your continued trust and support. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance with anything.
