Weekly Columns
This week’s polar vortex brought snow and ice to many portions of the Fourth District. Many were advised to stay home, stay warm, and stay safe. However, in these moments, there are always the few who must sacrifice their own warmth and safety to keep our communities safe. These men and women are well-deserving of all of our thanks for the tireless hours and selfless work they have contributed in the past week.
From some of our earliest years of education, we were introduced to the words our forefathers wrote as they envisioned what the future of the United States might be. In a small room in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, these words were written onto one of the most pivotal documents in history: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."
The United States is one of the only nations in the world that allows child victims of sex trafficking and abuse who retaliate against their abusers to grow up in prison with no chance at parole or rehabilitation. Because of this, I was proud to introduce the Sara's Law and Preventing Unfair Sentencing Act of 2026 earlier this week.
A big topic of discussion across Congress as of late is the upcoming deadline on the Continuing Resolution that was passed in November which reopened the government after the historic shutdown. As January 31st looms closer and closer, it is incredibly important to work efficiently in order to pass the remaining appropriations packages so that Congress can get back to funding the government through the regular order process.
A new year always sparks excitement for what lies ahead in the months to come. Goals are set, aspirations are made, and lots of people hit the gym. However, one can’t help but also look back on the previous year to celebrate the various wins and challenges that were overcome.
The holiday season is a special time of year – not only to reflect on the greatest gift we have received through the birth of our Savior, but also the time to reflect on the past year and all we have to be grateful for.
With this year’s temperatures, we certainly have no trouble making this Christmas season warm and inviting. Through holiday festivities and time spent with friends and family, this really is the most wonderful time of the year.
Over the past several months, the House Natural Resources Committee has been tirelessly at work to introduce, and ultimately pass, a once-in-a-generation piece of legislation called the Standardizing Permitting and Expediting Economic Development (SPEED) Act. As this is such a notable bill, it has been a great honor to lead the charge in getting this legislation across the finish line that will cut burdensome federal red tape and get America – and Arkansas – building again.
In a time where countries like China, Russia, and other bad actors stand at the ready for any opportunity to undermine our nation’s democracy – or democracy across the globe – it is crucial that our nation’s defense stands ready and prepared. This week, the House voted to pass the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026, and it was a privilege to vote for this legislation that was not only a win for our national security but our own Arkansas communities.
As we reflect on this year, I’d like to take a moment to recognize our Arkansas National Guard and the exceptional discipline and dedication they have brought to their service not only for the Natural State, but nationwide.
As we celebrate a holiday centered on our gratitude and thankfulness for all the blessings we have been given, we must also reflect on our nation’s history and the significance behind Thanksgiving Day.