Floor Speeches

This week I spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

81 years ago, our nation endured a tragic loss when Pearl Harbor was targeted in a surprise attack resulting in over 2,000 military and civilian casualties and more than 1,000 injuries.

The attack on Pearl Harbor was intended to cripple the United States, but it did the opposite. Men and women across the country rallied together to support our country as it entered World War II, from enlisting in the military to volunteering for the war effort. This tragedy united our country against a common enemy.

This week we honored those who lost their lives in the attack on Pearl Harbor. May we never forget their sacrifice and service to our great nation.

I also recognized Odee Shtefanchuk, a foreign exchange student from Ukraine studying at WACO Community High School. Growing up Odee heard of American football and when he enrolled at WACO Community High School his friends convinced him to tryout for the football team.

Even though Odee is still learning the rules and procedures, he has been instrumental in leading the Warriors in an undefeated season and an appearance in the state title game.

To watch my floor speeches click HERE.

'Tis the Season

This month, Iowans across the state will come together and celebrate the holiday season. The holiday season in Iowa is something that warms the heart even as the temperatures drop. From festive town squares and main street parades to midnight mass, I am grateful to celebrate the holidays in southeastern Iowa. 

This holiday season, I am especially looking forward to spending time with my husband and our two children. While we are together, I am excited to participate in typical holiday traditions like decorating our tree, driving around to see houses and farms aglow with Christmas lights, enjoying holiday meals as a family and our own unique activity of baking and bringing cinnamon rolls to friends, police, firefighters and healthcare workers. 

I want to suggest everyone to take advantage of the many holiday events happening across southeastern Iowa this December. Activities such as DeWitt's Hometown Christmas, the Quad Cities Clarinet Christmas in Davenport, and Holiday Nights 'N Lights in Ottumwa are just some of the unique local events that your family can enjoy while supporting your local community. Buying local is equally important. 

I also want to encourage you to volunteer your time or gifts to local charities. Volunteering at your local soup kitchen or food bank or donating toys to organizations like Toys for Tots are great ways to make the holidays special for everyone. Additionally, many churches allow you to “adopt a kid” for the holiday season and purchase gifts for children in need. 

Lastly, our men and women in uniform should be in our thoughts this holiday season while they are away from their loved ones. Recently, I participated in the Red Cross Holiday for Heroes, which was created to send cards to our servicemembers overseas during the holiday season. If you would like to participate in this program, you should contact your local Red Cross to see how you can get involved. 

This December, I hope that everyone has a wonderful holiday season with their loved ones and a happy and healthy New Year!

24 County Tour

It is always great to meet with Iowans as I travel across the second district! It truly is my favorite part of serving in Congress. Speaking to Iowans allows me to stay informed about what is happening in their communities and what I can do to help.

This week I toured Tipton Middle School, met with students and faculty, and was shown why Iowa's schools are top-notch!

I finished my week by visiting Plastic Products Company to learn more about their production process and meet with the staff behind the operation.

Legislative Roundup

This week I cosponsored Representative Christopher Smith's (NJ-4) H.R. 7570 Protect Servicemembers who Refuse the COVID Vaccine which would reinstate our men and women in uniform that were removed from the Armed Forces because of refusing the COVID-19 vaccine.

Other News

This week I was grateful for the opportunity to write holiday cards to veterans in Iowa wishing them a happy holiday season and thanking them for their service.