Dear Mr. xxxxxx:

Good morning! It’s a beautiful Saturday here in the Fourth District, but with storms in the forecast this afternoon, be sure to stay weather-aware. I hope you’ll join me with a cup of coffee this morning as I share an update on what we’ve been working on this month in Washington and back here in the District.

House Votes to Pass the “One Big Beautiful Bill” 

Here in Congress, the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” landmark legislation passed through the U.S. House of Representatives. This bill delivers critical wins for American families, strengthens national security, and ensures responsible government spending.  
I voted yes because hardworking families deserve tax relief, a secure border, and a government that lives within its means. This bill delivers real results while continuing to support our most vulnerable.  

I am proud to have championed a provision in this piece of legislation that adds a new $5,000 adoption credit to ease the financial burden for families who open their homes and hearts to children in need. This provision will provide meaningful relief to adoptive families and reflects our commitment to protecting life.  

There has been a lot of disinformation about Medicaid in this bill. We are not reducing the program—we’re strengthening it. By addressing the widespread fraud, waste, and abuse within Medicaid, we’re ensuring that this critical program remains available for the most vulnerable populations it was designed to serve in the first place—such as low-income pregnant women, individuals with disabilities, and the elderly.

Right now, it's estimated that 62% of able-bodied adults without children who are on Medicaid are choosing not to work, relying on a program intended for the most vulnerable—diverting critical resources away from those who genuinely need it. Our reforms aim to preserve the integrity and sustainability of the program, not dismantle it. These changes are thoughtful and necessary to prevent insolvency and protect Medicaid’s future.

Strengthening American Health: HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy 

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. testified before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies. I’m encouraged by his willingness to bring fresh perspectives to a system that spends nearly $2 trillion annually yet still delivers unacceptable health outcomes.

It's become clear that just spending huge amounts of money on healthcare is not making Americans healthier. Bold reforms are especially urgent in rural Alabama, where communities face high rates of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. I remain committed to working with Secretary Kennedy to protect access to care, support rural hospitals, and find practical solutions for those we serve.

As a strong supporter of the right to life, I also commend Secretary Kennedy’s commitment to protecting the sanctity of life and the conscience rights of medical professionals. Reforming Washington isn’t easy, but Congress stands ready to partner with the Administration to deliver meaningful, lasting improvements to our health care system, rather than just doing the same thing and expecting different outcomes.

Return to Core Learning: Secretary of Education Linda McMahon 

 
I had the privilege of welcoming the newly appointed Secretary of Education, Linda McMahon, to testify before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies.  
Secretary McMahon swiftly got to work on implementing President Trump’s bold education agenda. She understands that despite record levels of federal spending, student outcomes have declined, and it’s time to reassess our approach to education. 

 
Our students deserve better, and classrooms need to return to core subjects, such as reading, writing, and mathematics, rather than divisive social advocacy. Due to the ongoing crisis in the federal student loan system, millions of borrowers are in default or at risk of default. The student loan program is in disarray, and I am hopeful that Secretary McMahon can bring clarity and responsibility back to this vital area of higher education.  

I applaud Secretary McMahon and President Trump for restoring the original intent of Title IX and defending the rights of female athletes. This ensures our campuses are safe and welcoming for all students.  

Gulf of America 

The Gulf of America Act codifies an executive order issued by President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, which initiated the renaming process. I voted in favor of this legislation that passed through the U.S. House of Representatives 211-206.  
As a representative of Alabama, a state with a proud and vital coastline along the Gulf of America, I believe this renaming is both appropriate and timely.

The Gulf is integral to our national economy, energy independence, and security.  
Alabama’s coastal communities, from Mobile to Orange Beach, rely on the Gulf for jobs, tourism, and natural resources, which in turn is vital to our entire state. This legislation is a reaffirmation of our stewardship and sovereignty over these waters. 

Airport Funding for Cullman and Albertville Airports 

Over $1.9 million in federal Airport Infrastructure Grants (AIG) have been awarded by the Federal Aviation Administration to support vital improvements at two regional airports in Alabama’s 4th Congressional District. Cullman Regional Airport – Folsom Field will receive $1,011,708 to fund the construction phase of a new 600-foot Midfield Taxiway, which will accommodate growing aircraft activity. Meanwhile, Albertville Regional Airport – Thomas J. Brumlik Field has been awarded $939,038 to reconstruct runway and taxiway lighting on Runway 5/23 and Taxiway A, addressing infrastructure that has reached the end of its service life.

Federal investment in local aviation infrastructure is essential to public safety and economic growth. These grants will help ensure that both airports can continue to meet modern standards, support increased operations, and serve the needs of their surrounding communities well into the future. I’m pleased to see these critical improvements moving forward in Cullman and Albertville.

New Jasper Head Start Facility

I was honored to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Jasper Head Start Center in Walker County. This state-of-the-art facility will serve over 140 children, providing them with a strong foundation in early childhood education. Head Start plays a critical role in preparing our youngest citizens for success in school and beyond, and I was proud to support the federal funding that helped make this project a reality.

Investing in early education is one of the most effective ways we can strengthen families and communities, especially in rural areas like ours.  It was a privilege to celebrate this milestone with them, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact the Jasper Head Start Center will have for years to come.

Global Down Syndrome Foundation Gala 

It was a privilege to attend and speak at the Global Down Syndrome Foundation’s AcceptAbility Gala, where I was honored with the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award. This event shines a much-needed spotlight on the importance of inclusion, research, and legislative support for individuals with Down syndrome. I’ve long believed that every life has value and purpose, and I remain committed to championing policies that uphold the dignity and rights of individuals with disabilities.

Joining me at the gala was my intern, Julia Greene, who has been an incredible addition to our team. Her presence underscored the very mission of the evening—demonstrating the capabilities and contributions of individuals with Down syndrome. It was an unforgettable night celebrating the amazing individuals and families at the heart of this movement.

Fourth District Feel Good News

Students at Henagar Junior High in DeKalb County were featured on the NBC Nightly News Kids Edition a few weeks ago. They were in the spotlight because of an innovative way they are teaching kids how to learn math, which can sometimes be a struggle for all of us. You can watch the story above.

Happy Father's Day

May God bless you and your loved ones.

Sincerely,


Robert B. Aderholt