Attending the Inauguration with the Adjutant General of Indiana
Last week, I attended the Inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. This was the 59th Presidential Inauguration, marking the peaceful transfer of power as an essential component of the American experiment. Witnessing this uniquely American tradition once again reminded me of the immense responsibilities we have to protect this republic. I stand ready to work with the new administration to find common ground wherever possible, and to ensure every American has a fair shot at success.
I would also like to thank the Indiana National Guard members who were mobilized to our nation’s capital to help ensure a safe Inauguration, as well as their Commanding General, Brigadier General Lyles who joined the ceremony as my guest. From deployments around the globe to responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and now helping to ensure the peaceful transfer of power, the men and women of the National Guard continue to make Indiana proud.
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Saying Thank You to Capitol Police Officer Eugene Goodman
Capitol Police Officer Eugene Goodman exemplified immense courage and commitment to duty during the January 6th riots. He was able to divert rioters in the Capitol to help ensure the safe evacuation of many inside. I was proud to introduce legislation to award Officer Goodman the Congressional Gold Medal in honor of his heroic actions on January 6, 2021. His bravery on that day deserves recognition.
I thank him and all the Capitol Police Officers who were there that day for their service to our nation.
General Lloyd Austin’s Confirmation as Department of Defense Secretary
Our nation has an important tradition of placing civilian leaders in control of the Department of Defense. This is necessary to empower civilian voices within the military. As a Marine, I recognize the importance of protecting this long-held practice and am concerned about the precedent set by approving two waivers in a matter of just four years. For that reason, I voted against the waiver for General Lloyd Austin to serve as DoD Secretary. However, I do not question General Austin’s merits as a nominee or his commitment to our national security, so I voted in favor of his confirmation.
Keeping the Filibuster
Last week, I voiced my opinion on keeping the filibuster. When Republicans were in power, Democrats wanted to keep the filibuster in place. In fact, 28 Democratic Senators signed this letter in support of preserving this important tradition. Now that the Senate is split 50-50, some of my Democratic colleagues have changed their minds and are in favor of a power grab. But even President Biden has warned that “ending the filibuster is a very dangerous move."
I strongly urge Senator Chuck Schumer and my Democratic colleagues to seriously reconsider the long-term consequences of eliminating rules that would fundamentally change the way the Senate functions. What may benefit their party today, could make them powerless in the future.
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Combating Global Corruption
Global corruption is often at the root of conflict, humanitarian suffering, and political crises. In places like Afghanistan, Yemen, and Venezuela, corruption has undermined the rule of law and stood in the way of humanitarian aid reaching those in need. My bipartisan Combating Global Corruption Act aims to stop international corruption by standing with the world’s most vulnerable and holding those in power responsible for their actions.
Constituent Spotlight
For the last 31 years, Tipton resident Robert Peters, has worked at the local Pizza Hut dropping off pizzas all around the city. With more the 200,000 miles on his car, the community came together and bought him a brand new car to continue serving Hoosiers.
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Social Media Recap
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