Dear Neighbor,
Last week was another frustrating one in D.C. Unfortunately, there is still no consensus on broader budgetary issues for the remainder of the year; however, the House and Senate did vote to send the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to the President. While there were provisions within the NDAA that I have personally championed, such as the long-overdue repeal of the Biden Administration’s unconscionable military vaccine mandate, and increased pay and housing allowances for active duty military, other provisions in the bill prompted my no vote. Poison pills contained within the package include: increased funding for Ukraine without strong measures to ensure transparency or accountability, further erosion of Americans’ 2nd Amendment rights, and overall increased spending levels without appropriate offsets.
Americans are suffering from devastating inflation and Congress cannot keep writing checks that fuel this problem. In many instances the NDAA simply didn’t go far enough. For example, to fully rectify the harm that originated from the military COVID vaccine mandate, we must correct the military records and allow re-enlistment of the 3,300 Marines, 1,800 soldiers, 1,800 sailors, and 900 airmen who were terminated simply for exercising their right to make individual healthcare decisions. Despite concerns about military readiness and staffing levels, this year’s NDAA did not address this important issue. Please be assured that as we continue to discuss fiscal matters over the coming weeks, I remain committed to advocating for our community and the families who are hurting this holiday season.
In another frustrating matter, I was appalled that President Biden opted to release a dangerous arms dealer in exchange for one American celebrity while leaving a United States Marine who has been wrongfully held in Russia for many years in captivity. Don’t get me wrong, I am happy to see all American citizens who have been wrongfully accused return home safely, but this type of appeasement and capitulation to a terrorist regime sets a dangerous precedent and allows the “Merchant of Death” to continue his original aim of killing Americans. Please continue to read for a brief overview of my efforts on your behalf last week.
Combatting Inflation
A new study shows that more than 25% of all seniors in America report spending more than they can afford in retirement due to the rising cost of basic goods and services. Also, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Americans’ credit card balances have increased 15% since last year, which is the largest increase in two decades. This is a glaring sign of the harmful toll that inflation, caused by reckless government spending, is having on everyone. We need to provide relief by creating an economy that is strong – and that starts with reining in government spending--including my NO vote on the NDAA! ! Additionally, multiple reports indicate that Americans are spending more to buy less this holiday season as a result of record inflation. We can help by fighting inflation, lowering the cost of living, fixing supply chain disruptions and ending our reliance on foreign countries.
Restoring American Energy Independence
The national average for a gallon of gas is $3.40. This is more than one dollar more per gallon than when President Biden took office. It is clear his failed energy policies are hurting Americans. To address this crisis, we need to restore American energy independence. The first step in doing so is cutting the permitting process time in half. This will help reduce reliance on foreign countries, prevent rolling blackouts, and lower the cost of gas and utilities.
Strengthening Families
I was proud to vote in favor of the Jackie Walorski Maternal and Child Home Reauthorization Act of 2022 which will increase support to mothers, children and families across the nation. This legislation is named after my friend and late colleague in honor of her dedication to helping the most vulnerable among us. I’m proud this important legislation is one step closer to becoming law.
Recognizing and Remembering our Heroes
I was proud to join the American Red Cross this week to send messages of hope and gratitude to members of our Armed Forces and their families this Holiday season.
My team was also honored to attend last weekend’s Christmas Concert at River Ridge High School featuring the Ardennes March composed by my constituent, Fred Faulkner. Fred is a 97-year old WWII survivor. We appreciated the chance to recognize Mr. Faulkner for his service to our country during this beautiful concert!
Last week also marked the 81st anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. We must never forget the Greatest Generation for their service and sacrifice.
Protecting Recreational and Commercial Fishing Industries
ICYMI- My colleagues and I want to make sure the decisions being implemented with respect to the recreational and commercial fishing industries are based on good, scientific data. These industries are vital to our economy and the Florida way of life. They need to be protected. Click here to read more about our efforts.
Facilitating the Development of Better Treatments and Cures
I enjoyed attending the Spinal Muscular Atrophy’s Cure SMA event in Washington, DC last week. As I spoke with these rare disease patients and advocates, I promised to continue fighting for measures, like my STAT Act, which is designed to spur innovation and streamline the regulatory process for the development of treatments and cures to help the millions of Americans suffering with a rare disease.
Community Connection
I am fortunate to have a team of dedicated staff who regularly attend events throughout our community, especially when I am required to be in Washington, DC. Through their collective efforts, I am better able to stay connected to the issues that matter most to my constituents. Here are a couple highlights of their interactions last week!
My team appreciated the opportunity to support the Sunrise Domestic Violence’s annual PEACE breakfast. We are so grateful for the incredible staff and volunteers for their efforts to raise awareness about the prevalence of domestic violence in our community and the support they offer to victims.
My team always enjoys attending the Council of Neighborhood Association (CONA)’s annual Holiday brunch, which was just held last week. CONA does so much to help keep our community connected and to advocate for the needs of residents and homeowners throughout Pasco!
Constituent Corner
My office recently received this constituent email after helping out a local Veteran.
I just wanted to thank you for your help last week and to let you know that my eye appointment is scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, 12/9/22. After months and weeks of my trying to contact “Community Care” with no success, your involvement generated four VA employee to call me- two on a Saturday and two more on Monday morning. So, Thank You again!
This is just one example of the work we do each day. Constituent services are a critical element of our congressional office. The federal government is a massive operation, and my office is available if you ever need assistance in navigating the bureaucracy or cutting through red tape. We are here to serve you!
