Honoring America's Veterans
Freedom is not free. We get to live in the greatest nation on earth because of all the courageous men and women who put their own lives on the line to defend that freedom. They are our heroes. Today—and every day—we honor them.
I had the honor of delivering the keynote speech at the LSU Salutes Commandant's Luncheon on Friday as part of LSU's Veterans Day weekend ceremonies. This event recognizes the outstanding LSU alumni who stepped forward to offer their time, talent, and in some instances their lives, in service to our great nation.
Eight LSU alumni were inducted into the Hall of Honor for LSU Distinguished Military Alumni this weekend, and I have deepest respect for them and for all our veterans who selflessly fought to protect the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. LSU has alumni in every branch of the military, and the Long Purple Line of the LSU family stretches back to the days of LSU's origins as a military academy. It was an honor to be a part of this special event.
Celebrating LA Highway 1 Elevation Achievements
I met with members of the LA 1 Coalition this week to celebrate the progress we've made in the elevation of LA Highway 1, which has long been a top priority of mine in Congress. In June 2020, I helped secure $135 million from the Department of Transportation (DOT) in federal Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant funding to build 8.3 miles of elevated highway from Golden Meadow to Leeville. Construction bids for the project started last month, and construction on the project should begin next year.
This project is not only essential for the protection of Louisiana families, but it is absolutely vital for achieving American energy dominance and safeguarding access to our nation's oil and natural gas supply.
Applauding the Secure Equipment Act Being Signed Into Law
Earlier this week, my bipartisan Secure Equipment Act of 2021 was signed into law. This law prevents China from infiltrating America's telecommunications network and threatening the safety and national security of the American people when sending data across the internet. I was proud to work with Rep. Anna G. Eshoo (D-Calif.) and Senators Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.) to usher this important legislation through Congress to add an extra layer of protection for the privacy and security of American citizens.
With this bill being signed into law, we have sent a strong signal to the Chinese Communist Party that America is committed to protecting our telecommunications networks and the data security of our Nation.
It is an honor to represent you in Congress. For more information, please visit my website, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook pages.
