Friends,

Thank you for taking time to read my weekly update. Below you'll learn more about what I'm doing in Washington to support Iowans in the first district.

International Holocaust Remembrance Day

This week we remembered the millions of innocent lives lost during the Holocaust. We must never forget these atrocities and must reaffirm our commitment to stand against antisemitism.

School Choice Column

As a mother of two, I understand how important it is for children receive the best education possible tailored to their needs and wants and which is why expanding school choice is a priority. Every child should be provided with the opportunity to succeed, and that starts at school. However, even though both my husband and I and our two children went to public schools, that system may not be best suited to the learning needs of every child. 

This week, I joined Representative John Moolenaar (MI-02) on his resolution to designate this week as National School Choice Week. While it’s important to expand school choice, it’s equally as important to educate students and parents on what “school choice” really means. School choice isn’t about taking funding away from public schools—it’s about providing students with access to learning environments better suited for their needs. This may include smaller class sizes, more physical activity, one on one mentoring, or specialized programs for children with learning disabilities. 

I’m also excited to reintroduce the CHOICE Act with Senator Tim Scott (R-SC), which would expand school choice programs for elementary and secondary school children. In doing so, children with learning disabilities, children of military families, and children in low-income families would have access to schools and programs specifically tailored to their needs. 

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed flaws within our education system and made it clear that parents should play the lead role in decisions about their children’s education. Unfortunately, Democrats would rather remove parents from the classroom and force all children into a “one size fits all” learning environment. Our children deserve better, and parents know their children best. 

Thankfully, in Iowa we prioritize our children and value the opinion of our parents. Just this week, Governor Reynolds signed the “Students First Act” into law, which will give parents a seat at the table and expand access to alternative forms of education. Whether it’s at a private school, charter school, public school, or even at home, every child and their parent(s) deserves the ability to choose which environment will best meet their learning needs. 

Every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, and their success starts in the classroom.  The time for school choice is here and I will continue fighting to improve our education system.

Iowans in DC

It is always great to meet with Iowans while they are in Washington! It truly is my favorite part of serving in Congress. Speaking to residents of the First District allows me to stay informed of what is going on in their communities and what I can do to help.

This week, folks from the National Association of Chemical Distributors stopped by to talk about the effects of inflation and supply chain challenges.

20 County Tour

It is always great to meet with Iowans as I travel across the first 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.

Last week, I stopped by the Eaton Corporation in Davenport to learn about their fueling process and pilot safety training.

Floor Speeches

On Tuesday I spoke on the Floor of the House of Representatives to recognize National School Choice Week. As a mother of two, I understand how important it is to ensure that our children receive the best education possible. I will continue to fight for school choice so every child in America has the chance to succeed in the learning environment best suited to their needs. Our children deserve nothing less.

I also recognized Iowa Biodiesel Board for receiving the Initiative Award from Clean Fuels Alliance America. In order to leave a healthier planet for our children and grandchildren, we must enact a variety of clean energy policies where they work best.

To watch my speeches click HERE.

Legislative Roundup

This week I joined Representative Elise Stefanik (NY-21) in introducing the Promoting Agriculture Safeguards and Security Act of 2023. This legislation would prohibit China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea from acquiring farmland in the United States.

Additionally, I joined Representative Dan Newhouse (WA-04) in introducing the Prohibition of Agricultural Land for the People's Republic of China Act. This legislation would direct the President of the United States to take action against the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) or foreign nationals affiliated with the CCP from purchasing public or private agricultural land.

I also joined Representative Dan Newhouse (WA-04) in a letter to the Biden Administration for their reckless "Waters of the United States" (WOTUS) rule. The Biden administration’s ‘improved’ WOTUS rule is anything but, and it will have drastic consequences for farmers, producers, and landowners in Iowa and across the country. These burdensome regulations are unnecessary, confusing, and will ultimately result in delays or cancellations of new infrastructure projects. Any clean water initiatives by the federal government should be focused on clearly defined bodies of water—not privately owned land.

I also voted in favor of the following bills:

• H.R. 159 - "To implement merit-based reforms to the civil service hiring system that replace degree-based hiring with skills- and competency-based hiring, and for other purposes."
• H.R. 300 - "To amend Chapter 3 of Title 5, United States Code, to require the publication of settlement agreements, and for other purposes."
• H.R. 225 - "To amend the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 to develop a study regarding streamlining and consolidating information collection and preliminary damage assessments."
• H.R. 259 - "To provide for an online repository for certain reporting requirements for recipients of Federal disaster assistance."
• H.R. 388 - "To amend Title 40, United States Code, to eliminate the leasing authority of the Securities and Exchange Commission."
• H.R. 346 - "To establish a task force on improvements for notices to air missions."
• H.R. 399 - "To clarify the primary functions and duties of the office of Advocacy of the Small Business Administration."
• H.R. 449 - "To amend the Small Business Act to increase transparency."
• H.R. 400 - "To amend the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to increase the amount that may be invested in small business investment companies."
• H.Con.Res 7 - "Commending the bravery, courage, and resolve of the women and men of Iran demonstrating in more than 133 cities and risking their safety to speak out against the Iranian regime's human rights abuses."
• H.R. 21 - Strategic Production Response Act

In the News

On Wednesday, I joined Spicer & Co. to discuss my appointment to the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic. I look forward to working with Chairman Wenstrup (OH-02) to understand the origins of COVID-19 and how to better prepare for future pandemics.

To watch my NEWSMAX Interview click HERE.

I also joined Fox & Friends First to discuss the latest National Institute of Health (NIH) report that revealed the NIH failed to monitor research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

To watch my Fox & Friends First Interview click HERE.

Floor Debate

This week I spoke in favor of H.R. 21, the Strategic Production Response Act. In less than two years, President Biden has drained our Strategic Petroleum Reserve, putting American energy security at risk. Thankfully, House Republicans introduced and passed a plan to address the issue, replenish our reserve, and unleash American energy. Energy security is national security, and failing to increase energy production and replenish the Strategic Petroleum Reserve puts our country at risk.

To watch my full remarks click HERE.

Committee News

I was honored to be appointed to the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic. This committee will hold oversight and investigate hearings to ensure we are adequately prepared for any future pandemics.

I was also appointed to serve on two subcommittees on the House Energy and Commerce Committee. I'm excited to join the Subcommittee on Health and the Subcommittee on the Environment, Manufacturing, and Critical Minerals.

The Committee held two roundtables this week, one to discuss the role of big tech in the ongoing fentanyl crisis and the other on American energy security.

To view my remarks click HERE.