Working to Fund the Government
This week, Senate Democrats voted down a clean, short-term continuing resolution passed by the U.S. House of Representatives, which would have extended current government funding levels until November 21, 2025. This temporary funding package would make certain the government stays open to provide more time for congressional appropriators to negotiate the passage of full appropriations bills for FY2026. As a senior appropriator and Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, I have long been a supporter of working to pass all 12 individual government funding bills to allow Congress to perform its constitutional duty of directing how taxpayer dollars should be spent in a fiscally responsible manner. I am committed to working with the White House and my colleagues to accomplish these goals and do our job for the American people.

Welcoming NASA Crew 72 to the Capitol
It was great to welcome the NASA Expedition Crew 72 to Capitol Hill this week for NASA Day on the Hill. The crew members included native Kansan Nick Hagu, Suni Williams, Butch Wilmore, Don Pettit, Alexey Ovchinin, Ivan Vagner and Aleksandr Gorbunov. I appreciated hearing about their mission and discussing how Congress can continue to support American space exploration. Thank you, Crew 72, for your dedicated service to our country.

Under Acting Administrator Sean Duffy’s leadership, NASA is poised to return to the Moon and beyond. As Chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space and Innovation and Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee that funds NASA, I will continue to support America’s leadership in space and the manufacturers in Kansas who help pave the way in space exploration.


Leading a Hearing on Supporting Veterans with Spinal Cord Injuries
This week, I led a Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs hearing on strengthening support services for veterans with spinal cord injury and disorder (SCI-D) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The committee heard testimonies from witnesses from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), the Elizabeth Dole Foundation and from veteran advocates and veterans themselves. The witnesses for the first panel of the hearing were Shelly Hoover – a Navy veteran who has been living with ALS since 2013 and testified using a Tobii Dynavax Speech Generation Device with eye gazing technology; Mandi Bailey – an ALS advocate, who lost her Army veteran stepfather to ALS; Mary Ward – a spouse and caregiver to her Marine corps veteran husband, who has been living with ALS for 15 years and Robert Thomas – an Army veteran and the National President for Paralyzed Veterans of America. I am grateful to each one of them for taking the time to appear before the committee and helping identify how we can better serve other veterans like them.

Watch my questioning of the witnesses here and here.


Receiving the PVA Gordon H. Mansfield Congressional Leadership Award
After the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs hearing on Wednesday, Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) presented me with the 2025 Gordon H. Mansfield Congressional Leadership Award. This award has a special meaning for me as it was first presented to Kansas Sen. Bob Dole in 2015. I am grateful to PVA for the work that they do to empower veterans with spinal cord injury and disorder and support some of the most vulnerable veterans and their families, and I am eager to continue working alongside them to improve services and accessibility for veterans in Kansas and across the country.


Addressing U.S. Workforce Development Challenges
This week, I wrote a letter to the editor of the Wall Street Journal highlighting the need for Congress to address challenges facing U.S. workforce development and domestic manufacturing. Meeting that demand will require common-sense immigration reform and expanding short-term work visas to make certain we are able to attract and retain workers in key industries. In Kansas, investments in technical training, including at WSU Tech, have created a pipeline of skilled manufacturers in aviation that continues to attract aerospace companies to our state.

You can read my full letter to the editor in the Wall Street Journal here.

Celebrating Passage of the SUPPORT Act
This week, the Senate passed the SUPPORT ACT, legislation that includes improvements to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder (FASD) education and prevention and increases access to services for individuals impacted by FASD. In 2022, I met Kathy White, a Kansas mom on a mission to raise public awareness for children with FASD, like her adopted son, Zachary. Thanks to Kathy’s tireless advocacy, this bill is now on its way to the President’s desk and will improve the lives of children like Zachary.


Meeting with Textron Aviation President & CEO
On Wednesday, I met with Ron Draper, President and CEO of Textron Aviation, to speak about their work to bolster Kansas’ leadership in aviation and defense fields. Wichita is recognized across the globe as the Air Capital of the World because it is home to a skilled workforce, strong talent and experienced aircraft manufacturers like Textron Aviation. We discussed the importance of keeping aviation, defense and manufacturing jobs in Kansas, as well as how tariffs are affecting the aviation industry and our state’s economy. I appreciated our conversation and look forward to continuing our partnership to make certain Kansas remains a place of opportunity and a leader in aviation.


Celebrating Constitution Day with Students Nationwide
On Wednesday, September 17, our nation celebrated Constitution Day to remember our founding principles and honor those who have sworn an oath to protect and defend our Constitution and the rights and liberties enshrined within it. I was grateful to participate in a nationwide celebration comprised of over 17,000 students from across 13 different states to speak on the importance of continuing to uphold the ideals of our country’s founding document. Thank you to Udall School for capturing this photo!


Meeting with NSF Director Brian Stone
This week, I met with the Acting Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) Brian Stone. We discussed the important work the NSF does to fund research and education in science, engineering and mathematics to advance discovery, innovation and learning across the U.S. In particular, we discussed the relocation of NSF’s headquarters and the need to make certain the NSF is focused on funding high quality research, especially in places that have not historically received much federal research investment. I look forward to working with Acting Director Stone to make certain the U.S. can out compete our adversaries in research and development.


Opening Applications for the Rural Health Transformation Program
This week, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that applications are now open for states to access funding through the new $50 billion Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program. I worked with my colleagues to establish this critical fund through the Reconciliation Bill, which directs CMS to partner with states to identify the challenges facing rural health providers and invest in solutions to strengthen rural health care. Kansas providers are estimated to receive approximately $1 billion over the next five years through this program. The RHT Program represents a significant investment in rural health care and will provide resources to support providers, invest in new technology and improve health outcomes in rural communities.

For more information about the RHT Program, click here.

Meeting with Kansans
Gold Star Families
This week, I met with members of Gold Star families from Kansas, ahead of Gold Star Families Remembrance Week, to hear their concerns and find ways to improve the lives of surviving families across the country. Under current law, most benefits from the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are terminated for surviving spouses of fallen servicemembers who remarry before age 55. My legislation, the Love Lives On Act, would allow surviving spouses to retain these benefits upon remarriage regardless of age. A survivor who marries is still a survivor, regardless of when they remarry, and they should not have to choose between getting married again or keeping the survivor benefits that they rely on to support their family. Last year, part of the Love Lives On Act was passed to allow surviving spouses to retain access to commissaries and exchanges on U.S. military bases even if they remarry. I will continue to work to make certain the full legislation is considered by the Senate.


Kansas Bankers Association
This week, I met with the Kansas Bankers Association to discuss the strength of Kansas’ financial institutions. Amongst a host of issues, we discussed the need to reform deposit insurance for Kansas banks of all sizes to protect the families and businesses that bank with them. The community bankers also highlighted importance of reexamining outdated regulatory thresholds that have constrained their lending. Updating these regulations is crucial to expanding their impact in Kansas communities. We also spoke about the need to advance a modernized Farm Bill that addresses the needs of agricultural producers and allows them to keep farming and ranching. 

Thank you to KBA President and CEO Doug Wareham, Executive Vice President and General Counsel Kathy Taylor and the members of KBA for taking the time to visit with me.


Kansas Mental Health Centers
On Tuesday, I met with Kathy Shepard and Lori Bishop to receive an update on the important work of the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). RSVP volunteers provide valuable services to Kansans, including medical transportation, meal delivery to homebound seniors and education on suicide awareness. I am grateful for the dedication of RSVP volunteers who give their time and talents to support their neighbors and strengthen communities across our state.

University of Kansas Cancer Center
On Thursday, I met with leaders from the University of Kansas Cancer Center who were in Washington, D.C. for the Rally for Medical Research. During our meeting, we discussed the progress being made on the new KU Cancer Center facility and the importance of continued support for the National Institutes of Health (NIH). As a strong advocate for robust NIH funding, I was pleased that the Senate Appropriations bill includes $48.7 billion for NIH, including a $150 million increase for the National Cancer Institute. This federal support will aid the new KU Cancer Center facility, which will include space for oncology outpatient services as well as dedicated space for 48 researchers. I am grateful for the important role KU Cancer Center plays in advancing cancer research and improving health outcomes for Kansans.


Kansas Wheat Commission
This week, I spoke with members of the Kansas Wheat Commission about the current challenges facing the agriculture industry and the importance of trade and market access around the world. We also spoke about government funding and the importance of Congress working to pass a full five-year Farm Bill. I want to thank the Kansas Wheat Commission for advocating on behalf of Kansas wheat growers, and I appreciate their help moving Kansas agriculture priorities forward.


Geary County Schools
On Tuesday, I met with representatives from Geary County Schools USD 475, including Superintendent Dr. Reginald Eggleston. I received an update on the district and appreciated learning about the progress being made on the new Early Childhood Care Center. We also discussed the importance of federal Impact Aid, which provides critical support to school districts that serve military installations, Indian Trust and Treaty Lands, Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) Lands and other federal properties. Through the appropriations process, I will continue working to make certain school districts like Geary County have the resources they need to meet the needs of their students.


Announcing 2025 Service Academy Selection Board
This week, I announced the members of my 2025 Service Academy Selection Board. The board is tasked with reviewing applications and interviewing candidates who are applying for admission to the U.S. Service Academies. Nominating Kansas students for service academies is one of my greatest honors as a United States Senator. I appreciate this year’s Service Academy Selection Board for their dedication to investing in the next generation of leaders who are stepping up to defend and serve our nation.

You can read more about my 2025 Service Academy Selection Board from the Hays Post here.

Rosh Hashanah
Shana Tova to all the Jewish communities in Kansas and across the world celebrating Rosh Hashanah over the coming days. May the new year bring peace and prosperity.


National POW/MIA Recognition Day
On Friday, September 19, our nation recognizes National POW/MIA Recognition Day to honor and remember the American servicemembers held captive as prisoners of war and those who are still missing. On this day, and every day, we reaffirm our commitment to never forget their service and make certain our nation's heroes come home.


Celebrating the U.S. Air Force’s 78th Anniversary
For 78 years, the men and women of the United States Air Force have protected our nation in both air and space. I extend a special thanks to the brave Kansans at McConnell Air Force Base and the 190th Air Refueling Wing of the Kansas Air National Guard whose dedicated service helps keep America safe. Aim high!


Now Accepting Spring 2026 Internship Applications
My own interest in public service was sparked by an internship for Kansas First District Congressman Keith Sebelius in 1974. As an intern, I had the chance to learn firsthand how a Congressional office operates and how the legislative process works. I am glad to be able to offer this same opportunity in my Senate office today, where I have interns year-round working closely with my staff to serve Kansans.

Applications for internships in my Washington, D.C. and Kansas offices for the spring 2026 session are due Sunday, October 19. Congressional internships are open to qualified undergraduate and graduate students who have an interest in public service and have achieved academic excellence. Click here for more information and to apply.

Now Accepting Spring 2026 Page Applications
Applications are now open for the Spring 2026 Senate Page Program. High school students are afforded a unique opportunity to work in the Senate and learn about Congress and the legislative process. Summer Page eligibility is limited to students who have completed their sophomore year of high school and who will be 16 or 17 years old on or before the date of appointment. The deadline to apply is Sunday, October 19. You can learn more about the Senate Page Program here.

Kansans in the Office 

Capitol Tour

Marshal Alshouse of Overland Park

Susan Brown of Wamego

Chris Haugsness of Topeka

Vinecia Haugsness of Topeka

Kallen Leak of Overland Park

Mackenzie Leak of Overland Park

Hector Martinez of Topeka

Ron Mason of Andover

Treena Mason of Andover

Sunee Mickle of Lawrence

Sally Stanton of Overland Park

American Academy of PAs

Hillary Lewia of Maize

Stephen Lewia of Maize

American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons

Randall Hildebrand of Great Bend

Chris Roy of Hutchinson

American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network

Stephanie Barr of Prairie Village

Christina Cowart of Lawrence

Patrick Doran of Topeka

Tami Portela of Derby

Kristy Reynolds of Roeland Park

Jerome Tang of Manhattan

Anne Zajic of Topeka

American Car Rental Association

Josh Dover of Overland Park

American Pharmacists Association

Tessa Schnelle of Louisburg

American Planning Association

Lauren Driscoll of Salina

Advent Health

Molly Haase of Shawnee

Alliance for Pharmacy Compounding

Arden Andersen of Mission

Lisa Everett-Anderson of Mission

Nick Love of Olathe

Association of Equipment Manufacturers

David Disberger of Salina

Mark Lamboley of Sabetha

Yannick Montagano of Edgerton

Auto Care Association

Matt Hellman of Overland Park

Aviation Technician Education Council

James Hall of Wichita

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kansas

Ron Mason of Wichita

Teresa Mason of Wichita

Sharee Mitchell of Topeka

Boys and Girls Club of America

Lacie Maltbie of Lawrence

Central Christian School of Hutchinson

John Walker of Hutchinson

Farm Credit

John Booze of Hays

Jon Hornug of Colby

Four County Mental Health Center

Lori Bishop of Manhattan

Kathy Shepard of Independence

Freeman Health System

Matt Fry of Fort Scott

Paula Lanier of Fort Scott

Geary County Schools USD 475

Tom Brungardt of Junction City

Aaric Davis of Hoyt

Reginald Eggleston of Junction City

Keith Mispagel of Fort Leavenworth

Gold Star Families

Sylvia Pierson of Andover

Marcie Robertson of Wamego

Nelson Lancour of Wamego

Sarah Berry of Fort Riley

International Franchise Association

Melinda Kinders of De Soto

Jeff Ports of Chanute

Sharla Ports of Chanute

Kansas City Hospice and Palliative Care

Paul Weddle of Overland Park

David Wiley of Overland Park

Kansas Corn

Brett Grauerholz of Republic

Taylor Williamson of Manhattan

Kansas Head Start

Kim Sill of Olathe

Kathy Hess of Olathe

Megan Cook of Kansas City

Michelle Taylor of Kansas City

Kwamea Smith of Kansas City

Lindsay Knapp of Girard

James Whating of Girard

Kansas Respiratory Therapists

Teresa Lesser of Topeka

Lacey Nihemer of Lenexa

Kansas Wheat Commission

Shayna Jensen of Manhattan

Clay Schemm of Sharon Springs

Literacy KC

Netty Doyle of Kansas City

Wendy Kline of Kansas City

Love LifeSciences

Bradley Hopper of Topeka

Nick Lee of Olathe

Sutal Shon of Lawrence

Mid Kansas Cooperative

David Spears of Moundridge

Municipal Art Commission

Branden Haralson of Topeka

Evie Craig of Lenexa

Anna Pauscher of Salina

National Bison Association

Dick Gehring of Moundridge

National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association

Robert Bunting of Newton

Brian Burmaster of Salina

Brendan Devereaux of Lawrence

Rich Evangelista of Newton

Amanda Mohr of Olathe

Steve Sloan of Pittsburg

Colten Von Lintel of Salina

North American Millers’ Association

Jason Creed of Salina

Pet Advocacy Network

Michelle Russell of Erie

PrairieStar Health Center

Bryant Anderson of Hutchinson

Professional Insurance Agents Kansas

Vonda Copeland of Manhattan

Robin Langton of Manhattan

Searles Valley Minerals

Dennis Cruise of Overland Park

Spring Venture Group

Tyler Dickerson of Kansas City

St. Luke’s Health System

Jake Vance of Overland Park

Textron Aviation

Ron Draper of Wichita

Thrive Foster Care Ministry

Kathy White of Kansas City

Tree Care Industry Association

Patrick Turley of Shawnee

United Academics of KU

Tara Marriage of Lawrence

Kristi Nufeld of Lawrence

University of Kansas Cancer Center

Ronald Chen of Overland Park

Roy Jensen of Gardner