Newsletter: A Progress Report to Iowa Taxpayers

Statement

Friends,

Even when there is gridlock in Washington, D.C., the federal government, by law, must be funded to remain operating. The House Appropriations Committee, the committee I am assigned to, plays a pivotal role in how hardworking taxpayer dollars are allocated at the federal level. I thought Iowans should have a seat at the table during this process; and I am proud to be that voice.

As of this week the U.S. House of Representatives has passed six of the twelve annual funding bills needed to keep our federal spending on a smart, balanced, and fiscally efficient track. Iowans believe in a principled approach to spending - do not spend more than you make. Government too must follow the example set by Iowa families and live within our means. And, the majority of the House Appropriations Committee is working hard to advance commonsense funding bills that save money.

COFFEE WITH MY CONGRESSMAN COMES TO CORNING

On Saturday, June 20, I was in Adams County for my "Coffee With My Congressman" series. Hardworking taxpayers deserve a government that is not only accountable, but also one that listens. This series is an easy way to come over and just share what's on your mind.

We discussed affordable health care, specifically people just want less hoops from health care providers. We also talked about social security sustainability, reliable and affordable energy, how the tax code is unmanageable, federal DOT standards/federal building standards and my vote on Trade Promotion Authority. Most of the folks in attendance were supportive of the vote. They also talked about education money for career tech programs for rural Iowa. 18 were in attendance.

TOURED THE MONTGOMERY COUNTY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

On Monday, June 22, I met with the Board of Directors from Montgomery County Memorial Hospital in Red Oak. We toured the facility and then discussed mental health service needs and telemedicine.

PANCREATIC ACTION CANCER NETWORK

Megan was in Washington, DC, on Tuesday, June 23; we talked about Pancreatic Cancer research funding and I shared what Congress is doing to help cure diseases - like H.R. 6: the 21st Century Cures Act.

IOWA NATIONAL HISTORY DAY

Met with an impressive group of Iowa students, including this wonderful family. These kids were in Washington, DC, competing at the University of Maryland's National History Day. Sen. Grassley, Ernst and Congressman Loebsack and I met with nearly 100 Iowan students to talk about the importance of service.

RURAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES' YOUTH TOUR

Rural Electric Cooperatives' Youth Tour was in Washington, DC, on Wednesday, June 17. I met with John, Josh and Blake - all from Iowa's Third Congressional District. We talked about government, TPA, marriage, and taxes.

HOLDING OUR FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS ACCOUNTABLE

I gave a speech from the House Floor on Tuesday, June 17, calling on Assistant Secretary Sarah Saldaña, the Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to answer a letter four of my colleagues and I sent to her on May 15. I should note we asked for a response by June 5, and yet we have still not seen a response from the Assistant Secretary.

This delay is unacceptable, just as what she said was unacceptable. We need to investigate her statement and philosophy further, and I eagerly await a response.

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