One Year Later: The U.S. Still Stands with Israel
On this first anniversary of Hamas’ terrorist attack against Israel, we remember the 1,200 innocent lives murdered, including 40 Americans. This unprovoked assault had no justification, and we support Israel in its ongoing efforts to prevent this from happening again. We also remember our fellow citizens who are held hostage by Hamas alongside nearly 100 others awaiting their freedom. All efforts must be made to bring them home alive.

This past year has also resulted in enormous suffering among innocent Palestinians and Lebanese as terrorists who control Gaza and Lebanon are allowing mass civilian casualties as Hamas and Hezbollah use schools, hospitals and apartment buildings for protection. I am deeply concerned about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and implore the timely passage of food and medicine into the territory.

As Israel continues to defend itself against terrorists including Hamas, Hezbollah and Houthis – all backed by Iran, which has also attacked Israel twice in the last year – this day is a reminder that these enemies of Israel also pose direct threats to Americans in the Middle East and around the world. Shortly after the attack, I traveled to Israel and met with Prime Minister Netanyahu and other Israeli leaders to show the United States’ support of our ally. The United States must be consistent in its support for Israel and work to achieve an enduring peace which safeguards the Jewish state’s security and lasting existence and brings long-term peace in the Middle East.



Urging Action to Keep our Ports Open
This week, I called on the Biden administration to address the national maritime port strikes following the contract expiration between the International Longshoreman (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance. I am pleased to see a short-term resolution, and I will continuing urging the administration to find a long-term solution to keep our ports open. Kansas, like many other states depends on imports so that our farmers and ranchers receive critical inputs like fertilizer and crop management tools that allow growers to produce the highest quality food, fiber and fuels.

You can read more about the strikes in the High Plains Journal, here.

Visits Across Kansas
Retirement Reception for Becky Kiser
I recently attended a retirement reception for Becky Kiser. Becky has worked at Eagle Communications since 2005 and previously worked at the Hays Post, taught at Fort Hays State University and sits on the board of United Way and Women Who Lead. Thank you, Becky, for all the work you have done for the Hays community, and I wish you a happy and well-deserved retirement!



Ransom
I stopped by Ransom to meet with members of the community. During my visit, I went to Grisell Memorial Hospital, Western Plains High School, Frontier Ag and Deines Manufacturing. I also stopped by Holly’s Service, which provides a variety of automobile services. On my way out of town, I went to First State Bank for a visit and met with Andrew Flax, Holly Link, Jacky Roths, Amanda Wick and Mia Kraus.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to visit with me.



Mankato
During my visit to Mankato, I toured Rock Hills High School. It was great to meet with students, faculty and staff and hear about the classes and extracurriculars offered at Rock Hills. Thanks to students Meili Ost, Colin Wirth, Ally Beck, Dacey Beck, Hallee Mizner, and Alivia Lindberg for the tour.