Dear [firstname] [lastname],
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Hey folks. My team and I have had a busy two weeks in Washington and in MO-04!
We wanted to break down some of the things we are working on and what's been happening in Washington:
This week is National FFA Week-- a time to recognize the impact FFA has on growing the next generation of agriculturists. Agriculture is vital to our state, and seeing young people lead in this field is truly inspiring.
As a member of the Congressional FFA Caucus, we are committed to uplifting and supporting the next generation of farmers, business owners, scientists, lawyers, and other industry professionals. Hosting FFA chapter leaders from Missouri in our D.C. office has been a highlight, especially seeing those iconic blue corduroy jackets.
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Last week, Congress voted to impeach the Secretary of Homeland Security, Alejandro Mayorkas. Under Mayorkas's policies we have seen over 8 million people to enter our sovereign nation.
Folks, it’s simple: a nation without a border is not a nation. The House took the right step to remedy his failed policies by the impeachment process. We held his feet to the fire; we impeached him.
In the Agriculture Committee, I had the opportunity to hear from and ask questions of Agriculture Secretary Vilsack. I devoted questions to the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP). Each day in America, there are $30 million in overpayments in SNAP - $11 billion a year. Every 5 years, the Farm Bill is reviewed and potentially updated, which can affect how SNAP operates, including eligibility criteria and benefit levels.
My colleagues and I also held a hearing in the Small Business Committee, examining the burdensome regulations of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). I've seen the EPA impose burdensome regulations on small businesses that hinder their ability to grow and prosper. Folks, let's be clear: America needs less regulation, not more. Congress must support policies that empower main street America. That’s my position, and I promise I will be using my voice in Washington to help shape the conversation.
Lastly, I want to share with everyone that I host a syndicated radio show/podcast in DC with various members of congress every week. This offers a unique opportunity for you to meet the fantastic people I'm working with daily to shape America's policies. It gives you a look into the behind-the-scenes action, sharing the stories, news, and legislation that helps you better understand day-to-day operations in DC. Check out one of our recent episodes with Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee: Congressman Kevin Hern here.
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This week I want to tell you about the American Land and Property Protection Act (H.R. 7246). I introduced this legislation to protect against foreign adversaries purchasing American land.
You see, it's a simple concept: I believe that anyone associated with the governments of our adversaries has no business owning an inch of American real estate.
If we, as Americans, wanted to travel to Moscow, Beijing, or Tehran to buy property, their governments would not allow it. Yet, as we speak, companies backed by our adversaries are attempting to buy land across our great nation.
Why, in turn, should we allow them this golden opportunity to conduct espionage on our soil?
What the bill does: In an ever-changing global landscape, we must take the necessary steps to secure our homeland. Over 20,000 Chinese nationals have entered through our southern border since October 2023. It's time for America to wake up! Our bill is a crucial first step in accomplishing that.
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Fox Business
I spoke on Fox Business about the recent Special Counsel report. Some of Robert Hur's findings were deeply concerning.
Watch here.
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Real America's Voice
I joined Real America's Voice to discuss our new bill, the American Land and Private Property Protection Act. This bill prohibits citizens from China, Russia, Iran, and other adversarial nations from purchasing any land in the U.S.
Watch here.
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CNN
I talked with Boris on CNN about Biden's Border policy failures: 8.5 million illegal aliens and 20k Chinese Nationals have been encountered at our southern border. This is no time to play games with the American people. It's time to prioritize our national security.
Watch here.
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Speaking on the EPA's Burdensome Regulations
America has seen the EPA impose burdensome regulations on small businesses that hinder their ability to grow and prosper.
Folks, let's be clear: small businesses need less regulation, not more. Congress needs to support policies that enable the growth and prosperity of small businesses.
That's our position, and that's how I'm using my voice in Washington to help shape the conversation.
Watch here.
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Reminder: Telephone Town Hall on 2/28/2024
Join us for our February telephone town hall for #MO04, coming up NEXT WEEK: on Tuesday, February 28th, at 6 pm CT.
Call in for an update on our work in Congress and to share your questions, concerns, and thoughts – we hope to talk to you on Tuesday!
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Alewel's Meats
We stopped at Alewel's Meats in Warrensburg. This 4th generation family run business is a staple in mid Missouri's community. We were able to chat about policies in Washington and how those initiatives impact their company on a day-to-day basis. Businesses like these are exactly what my team and I are fighting for in Washington.
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Borgman's
We got to visit Borgman's. Chatting with Janet and Connie about their goat farm was great! The farm was started in 1935 and is still going strong. I enjoyed learning how what we do in Washington is affecting main street America. It is important for Congress to support policies that allow these businesses to thrive.
These individuals and businesses are what make MO-04 the best district!
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Energy Transport Solutions
We had a wonderful time visiting Glenn Kolkmeyer and friends at Energy Transport Solutions! ETS is a family-owned business in Bates City, MO--serving over 50 states. My team and I will continue to push policies that allow trucking companies like this to support America.
We are so blessed to have them in our district.
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VFW Awards Banquet
Our team attended the VFW Awards Banquet this weekend and shared remarks with the winner of the Voice of Democracy Scholarship competition, Katelyn Wright!
We are so excited for Katelyn to represent Missouri at the National Voice of Democracy competition in D.C.
It was a great night of awarding hard working individuals and honoring the next generation of future leaders. Night's like these are why I came to Washington. I always cherish the opportunity to provide policy updates and give back to future generations.
We are excited to continue working with them in the future!
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Columbia REDI Meeting
Our team attended the Columbia REDI meeting.We heard from Commerce Bank, discussed REDI’s strategic plan for the fiscal year, and listened to updates from various stakeholders. We are excited to continue these conversations that strengthen the Boone County community!
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Sedalia Chamber Breakfast
It was great for our team to attend the Sedalia Chamber breakfast! We got to give an update and hear presentations from chamber members regarding upcoming events and programs.
Thank you for having us!
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If anyone you know needs assistance with any agency of the federal government, please contact my team in Raymore, Columbia, or Lebanon. Whether it's the IRS, Social Security, passports, veterans’ affairs, or anything else related to the federal government, please give us a call at one of the following numbers: - Raymore: 816-441-6318
- Columbia: 573-540-6600
- Lebanon: 417-532-5582
Meanwhile, if you have questions about legislation going through Congress, my office in Washington, D.C. can take care of you. My team in D.C. can be reached at 202-225-2876.
My number one job in Congress is to help folks here in Missouri. Please do not ever hesitate to call my offices at the numbers listed above.
I truly care about and will always be working for you.
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