Laying Out the Case for the Chinese Communist Party's Threat to America

This week, the House Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party held its first hearing which provided incredibly important insight into the relationship between the United States and the CCP, as well as details regarding the CCP's threat to our national security, economy, and values.

I questioned General McMaster about the threat CCP purchases of American farmland near strategic military installations and critical infrastructure poses to our country. I also questioned Ms. Tong, a Chinese human rights advocate, regarding the “White Paper” protests last fall and the similarities to previous dissident movements in China.

This hearing set the table for the American public about the specific threats the CCP poses as a global competitor and why that competition will impact the daily lives of Americans.

This Committee will continue to uncover more of the CCP’s aggressions and atrocities so we can prepare for the future.

2023 Veterans Service Fair

I am proud to announce the 2023 Veterans Service Fair for all Central Washington veterans and their families!

As your representative in Congress, I have worked hard to be an advocate for our veterans.

Every year, I host a Veterans Service Fair so Central Washington's veterans can explore the resources available to them throughout our region; it is the least we can do to thank them for their service to our country.

This year's Veterans Service Fair will take place on April 22nd from 10 AM - 2 PM at the Yakima Convention and Event Center.

There will be space for vendors, so be sure to click the button below for more information and to RSVP.

Advocating for American Energy Independence

This week, I spoke to the American Public Power Association (APPA). As Chairman of the Western Caucus, I understand the importance not-for-profit, community-owned utilities play to produce energy for communities.

I also met with the Washington Public Utility Districts Association (WPUDA) about the Snake River Dams and important infrastructure that will continue to power Central Washington. I look forward to the continued work we can accomplish with APPA and the WPUDA for a strong energy future in Central Washington.

I will continue to support initiatives that will revolutionize our grid security. Paving the path towards American energy independence, resilience, and dominance is of the utmost importance to me.

Meeting with the Former Kennewick Chief of Police

It was so good catching up with former Kennewick Chief of Police Ken Hohenberg and his wife, Trish.

Ken's hard work, courage, and decades of service have not gone unnoticed, and the Kennewick community is incredibly fortunate to have a leader so dedicated to public safety.

Thank you, Ken!

Western Caucus Agriculture Tour and Farm Bill Summit

This week, I led members of the Congressional Western Caucus to Fort Worth to listen to producers about what works for them and the concerns they have for this year's Farm Bill. The bottom line is: no matter where you are in the country rural communities are dealing with the same set of issues. As Chairman of the Western Caucus, I have always and will continue to support initiatives that benefit our agricultural sector.

While visiting, I met with various groups and organizations to learn more about innovative agricultural research.

This included a tour of a high-tech hydroponic greenhouse which grows hundreds of thousands of plants every month.

We also hosted a Farm Bill Summit on the Cowboy Channel to discuss challenges producers currently face due to trade imbalances, high input costs, and WOTUS, and how Western Caucus members are committed to providing a regulatory environment that is beneficial for our nation's farmers.

I had the opportunity to listen to farmers, which helps our Members better represent the agricultural community in Congress, and I look forward to continuing this important work.

Agriculture Open House

Community members interested in learning about a career in agriculture are invited to an Agriculture Open House with Yakima Valley College.

Local representatives will be there to cover a vast range of topics, including winemaking, crop sensor technology, and more.

Those interested are welcome to join on March 21st.