Dear John,

In this week's newsletter, honoring the heroes of D-Day, combating the opioid crisis, and my meetings in D.C. If you need help with federal agencies, please reach out to one of my offices listed at the bottom of the newsletter.

Honoring the Heroes of D-Day

On Friday, we honored America's Greatest Generation who stormed the beaches of Normandy to defend freedom and democracy around the world.

I will always honor the courage and sacrifice of our service members. Their bravery and determination changed the course of history.

Unleashing America's Economic Potential

I enjoyed sitting down with Stuart Varney on Fox Business' Varney & Co. to discuss the One Big Beautiful Bill and remind the public that CBO estimates should not be treated as gospel – for instance, they underestimated the economic growth for the 2017 Trump Tax Cuts by $1.7 trillion. 

This bill will strengthen America's economy with pro-growth and pro-family provisions to deliver real economic relief to the American people at a time when they need it most.

Watch here: My Interview on Varney & Co.

Ending Reliance on the CCP

Relying on CCP-build drones for our first responders is unacceptable.

That's why I joined Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership Elise Stefanik, Select Committee on China Chairman John Moolenaar, and Congressman Rob Wittman to reintroduce the Drones for First Responders Act to strengthen U.S. National Security and support our first responders.

Read more here: LaHood Joins Colleagues in Reintroducing Legislation to Support First Responders and end Reliance on CCP

Meeting with Students out in D.C.

It was great to visit with a group of students from Bloomington-Normal! The future of our government starts with engaged, informed students.

Their class trips are critical in understanding the role Congress plays in democracy and the importance of civic engagement.

Meeting with ISU's Special Education Department

Special educations teachers provide integral support and expertise to our students and I appreciate the critical role thy play in our community.

It was great to meet with Illinois Sate University's Special Education Department in DC to discuss the issues they are facing and how I can continue to advocate for them in Congress.

Highlighting the Benefits of Republicans' One Big Beautiful Bill

Earlier this week, I joined CNBC's Squawk Box to discuss how the One Big Beautiful Bill will give rocket fuel to the United States' economy and drive investment throughout communities across the country.

House Republicans are working around the clock to deliver historic tax cuts for the American people.

Watch here: My CNBC Squawk Box Interview

We Must Continue to Secure our Borders

As a member of the House Intelligence Committee, I've warned of the dangers posed by the Biden Administration's open border policies.

Democrats' failure to act has put Americans in harm’s way. Sunday's attack in Colorado is a reminder that the terror threats facing our nation are real.

Read more here: FLASHBACK: US lawmakers, officials warned about terrorist attacks from foreign nationals long before Boulder

Creating more Affordable Housing

I was honored to speak at the Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition to discuss the impact that the expansion of the Affordable Housing Tax Credit will have in the 16th District.

This improved housing credit prioritizes rural development and increases resources for communities across the country.

Combating the Opioid Crisis in Illinois

To help those affected by the opioid crisis and substance use disorders, Congress must continue to invest and bolster addiction treatment services.

I voted for the SUPPORT Act of 2025 to embrace prevention and strengthen the 16th District's response to the opioid crisis by expanding access to key public health programs on prevention, treatment, and recovery support services.

Read more here: LaHood Votes to Provide Resources to Fight the Opioid Crisis and Substance Use Disorders

Visiting with Former East Peoria Fire Chief John Knapp

 Firefighters and first responders in the 16th District are on the frontlines working to protect our communities.

I appreciate former East Peoria Fire Chief John Knapp and his son for taking the time to chat with me in DC! I will continue to be a strong voice for first responders across the 16th District.

One More Thing: Protecting Peoria's Ag Lab

Since I was elected to Congress, I have been one of the Peoria Ag Lab’s staunchest supporters.

I will continue to work with President Trump, Secretary Brooke Rollins, and state and local leaders to ensure the Ag Lab remains open to protect agriculture innovation, the future of our farming communities, and support public health sectors.

Read more here: Two local politicians announce possible growth – not cuts – for the Peoria Ag Lab

It is a privilege to serve the constituents of Illinois' 16th Congressional District. Thank you for subscribing to my newsletter. Please do not hesitate to reach out to one of my offices if we can ever be of assistance.

Sincerely,

Darin LaHood
Member of Congress