Visiting Kansas Communities Impacted by Tornados
On Monday night, three confirmed tornados touched down and caused severe damage across areas of northeast Kansas. While the storms caused significant physical damage to homes and buildings, thankfully there were no lives lost and few reported injuries. I traveled to Hillsdale on Friday morning to assess the damage and speak with folks in the area about how the federal government can assist them in rebuilding. I walked through the community with Kansas State Rep. Chip VanHouden, State Sen. Doug Shane, Miami County Sheriff Frank Kelly and Miami County Commissioners George Pretz and Tyler Vaughan, and they provided an update on the ongoing relief efforts and how the community is coming together to clean up and rebuild following this devastating storm.


Later on Friday, I also traveled to Ottawa, where I saw the damage caused by the storm and met with community leaders and residents at Ottawa City Hall who came out to lend a hand to their fellow Kansans. I also appreciated speaking with Kansas State Rep. Rebecca Schmoe, County Commissioner Sabrina Meador, City Commissioner Mike Skidmore, City Manager Thatcher Moddie, Mayor Zach Clayton, Ottawa Chief of Police Adam Weingartner, Ottawa Police Department Lt. Brian Luft and his wife, Jessica, and Ottawa Public Schools teacher Jason Circle to discuss the work ahead and how I can support these efforts.

I want to thank the many volunteers and first responders across our state that are continuing to aid their fellow Kansans during this difficult time. I will continue to work closely with state and local leaders to make certain residents receive the resources and support necessary to recover.


Chairing Joint Hearing on FIFA World Cup 2026 Security Preparations
On Wednesday, in my role as Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science, I led a joint hearing with Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.) to examine federal security preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026. We heard from officials at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the FBI and the Department of Commerce on coordination efforts to protect the safety of fans, athletes and host communities. The World Cup presents an important opportunity to demonstrate the strength of our federal, state and local partnerships and to showcase the U.S. on the world stage, but the success of the event will depend on strong coordination across all levels of government.

Over the past two years, I have worked to make certain Kansas is prepared for this global event. In 2024, I led a bipartisan effort calling on the administration to establish a White House Task Force to coordinate federal planning for the World Cup. I also helped secure $59.5 million for the Kansas City region through the Reconciliation Bill to assist state and local partners with World Cup-related safety and security costs. In March, I also requested an update from DHS on federal planning efforts and coordination with host cities. I will continue working with federal agencies and local partners to make certain Kansas is ready to safely and successfully welcome visitors from around the world.

You can watch my opening remarks here and learn more about efforts to prepare for a safe and successful World Cup here.



Leading a Hearing on Supporting Justice-Involved Veterans
On Wednesday afternoon, I led a Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs hearing with veterans from Kansas, advocates from the Veterans Justice Commission and All Rise, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) about federal, state and local programs for justice-involved veterans. We also discussed the importance of Veteran Treatment Courts (VTC) and the DOJ’s plans to establish a National Center for Veterans Justice. During the hearing, we heard from three Kansans: former Kansas Supreme Court Chief Justice Lawton Nuss, U.S. Army Major General (Ret.) Clyde “Butch” Tate and U.S. Army veteran Corey Schramm from Gardner.

The core premise of VTCs is that many justice-involved veterans are better served by an accountability-and-treatment model, particularly where military service, trauma, PTSD, substance use or related conditions are contributing factors. Since the Johnson County Veterans Treatment Court opened in 2016, five more VTCs have opened across Kansas. Corey Schramm graduated from the Johnson County VTC in 2022, and he shared his story at the hearing. He testified that “behind every statistic is a veteran like myself, who struggled and who, with the right combination of support, can find their way back.” Since his graduation from the VTC, Corey has earned an associate’s degree in addiction counseling, and he now works as an adult care manager at the Johnson County Mental Health Center.

Corey and the other witnesses at this hearing provided clear examples of why Congress works to support veterans as they transition out of the military, and they highlighted the value that veterans bring to our communities and country. In January, Congress passed my legislation to fully fund Veterans Treatment Courts, including $4 million for the DOJ to establish a National Center for Veterans Justice. These investments reflect a welcome focus on justice-involved veterans, not only in Kansas but across the country.

Learn more about VTCs and watch my questioning of the witnesses here. 

Update on U.S. Military Operation in Iran
While the two-week ceasefire with Iran continues to be largely upheld, it is due to expire in the coming days unless it is extended. The situation remains tense with the United States Navy maintaining a blockade of Iranian-related shipping in and out of the Persian Gulf, and Iran has reversed its announcement of permitting traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. As a result, the Strait effectively remains closed, impacting oil supplies and other goods. Last week I followed up on my floor remarks in March to once more urge the White House to resume sanctions on Russian oil, and I believe the decision to renew the sanctions waiver for another month goes against our national interests and does little to ease pressure on American consumers.

Instead of ineffective waivers, prices will depend on a resolution in the Persian Gulf. I continue to call on the administration to provide Congress and the American people with an update on where the conflict currently stands and what the strategy is to reach a successful conclusion. It is my hope that offensive operations can be concluded before the end of the month and our troops begin returning home.

You can read more about this from Bloomberg Government here.

Introducing Kansas Federal Judicial Nominees During Committee Hearing
This week, I had the opportunity to introduce three highly qualified Kansans: Jeffrey Kuhlman, The Honorable Anthony Powell and Tony Mattivi, during their nomination hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee regarding their appointments to serve on the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas. Each of these nominees brings a strong record of public service, legal experience and integrity, and I was grateful to offer my support for their nominations. Jeffrey Kuhlman brings extensive experience in private practice and previously served as a federal judicial law clerk in Kansas. Hon. Anthony Powell has served Kansans for decades, including as Kansas Solicitor General, a judge in the Eighteenth Judicial District and on the Kansas Court of Appeals. Tony Mattivi most recently led the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and previously served as a federal prosecutor, handling complex and high-profile cases. Following a thorough review process earlier this year where I met with many qualified candidates, I was pleased to support their nominations and will continue working with my colleagues as the Senate considers them for confirmation.

You can watch my introduction of the nominees here.



PASSED: Committee Approves Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Airport Security
On Tuesday, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation passed my legislation, the SAFEGUARDS Act. For more than a decade, the $5.60 9/11 security fee that passengers pay when they purchase an airline ticket has been diverted to non-security purposes. My legislation would make certain this security fee is returned to its original intent of investing in new technology to help bolster the safety and efficiency of U.S. air travel. I look forward to the passage of this important aviation safety legislation by the full Senate.

You can learn more about my legislation from KSN here.

Continuing to Advocate for Stronger Aviation Security Requirements
This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed an aviation safety bill, the ALERT Act. While the ALERT Act includes many aviation reforms, it does not go far enough in mandating the use of ADS-B In for aircraft flying in mixed airspace as recommended more than a dozen times by the National Transportation Safety Board. The Senate unanimously passed the ROTOR Act in December to address the failures that led to the disastrous crash involving Flight 5342 and a military helicopter, including mandating the use of ADS-B technology. Without stricter requirements for ADS-B In, our aviation system is still vulnerable to future collisions. There is broad bipartisan support in both the House and the Senate for rigorous ADS-B In requirements. Passing the ROTOR Act as a standalone bill or as part of the ALERT Act is the only way to ensure support in both the House and Senate and protect the safety of our skies. I will continue working with my colleagues to pass this critical policy and make certain it is enacted into law.

Discussing Cheyenne II Army Helicopter with Textron CEO
On Tuesday, I met with Lisa Atherton, President and CEO of Textron Inc., to discuss the Cheyenne II Army helicopter, which the Army officially named earlier this week. The Cheyenne II is currently being manufactured at Bell Textron’s plant in Wichita, the Air Capital of the World. This next-generation aircraft will not only bolster our nation’s military preparedness but also support Kansas workers and reinforce the strength of our state’s aerospace industry. Thank you to Lisa for meeting with me and for Textron’s continued investment in our state.

Discussing Kansas Transportation Infrastructure with GFT CEO Mike Orth
Earlier this week, I met with Mike Orth, the CEO of civil engineering company GFT. As a senior member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, I discussed with Mike the upcoming surface reauthorization bill, which is set to expire on September 30, 2026. This legislation is critical to making certain we continue a strong and consistent pipeline of infrastructure funding. That means continuing to invest in the roads and bridges Kansans rely on every day. For Kansas, these investments are essential – not just for maintaining our state’s infrastructure, but for supporting economic growth, improving safety and keeping our communities connected. Thank you to Mike and the entire GFT team for their investment in maintaining safe and secure transportation in Kansas.

Receiving an Update from SOUTHCOM Commander General Francis Donovan
This week, I met with the Commander of U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), General Francis Donovan, to receive an update on national security issues and military readiness within the region. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, I remain committed to making certain our servicemen and women have the resources necessary to safeguard the freedom and security our great nation.



Meeting with the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce
I met with members of the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday to speak about the latest updates on critical issues facing the Kansas City area. During the meeting, we discussed the upcoming FIFA World Cup that will be held in Kansas City, including my work securing nearly $60 million for World Cup security investments for the Kansas City region. We also discussed current workforce development efforts to bolster job opportunities and bolster economic growth.



Later in the week, I appreciated speaking with members of the Greater Kansas City Chamber during their annual MOKAN-KC Chamber breakfast. I spoke with members about updates on the U.S. military operation in Iran, and my support of the Chips and Science Act, legislation that was signed into law in 2022 to improve domestic semiconductor research, bolster U.S. manufacturing and workforce development and strengthen U.S. supply chains. I also spoke about the Kansas City Inclusive Biologics and Biomanufacturing Tech Hub (KC BioHub) and how its successes in accelerating vaccine production and pharmaceutical development have helped lead to Kansas City being designated as a federal Tech Hub by the U.S. Economic Development Administration.

Thank you to Greater Kansas City Chamber President & CEO Joe Reardo, Counsel for Husch Blackwell Russell Orban, who helped organize the MOKAN breakfast, and to the Chamber’s Board of Directors and members for their efforts to invest in our state.



Recognizing Kansas Farmer Lindy McMillen
The United Nations has designated 2026 the “International Year of the Woman Farmer” to celebrate the contributions women make to the agricultural sector each and every day. Last month, I joined my colleagues in cosponsoring a resolution that unanimously passed the Senate, recognizing and thanking all women in agriculture for their hard work and dedication to preserving our rural way of life for the next generation.

I especially want to recognize Lane County farmer Lindy McMillen. Women like Lindy are the backbone of Kansas agriculture, operating family farms, navigating market demands and teaching the next generation of farmers. Through working at the Garden City Co-Op, managing McMillen Farms with her husband, Matt, and raising their son in the family industry, Lindy plays an important role in helping to feed Kansans and the world.



Remembering Kansas’ “Rosie the Riveter” Connie Palacioz
I was saddened to hear of the passing of Connie Palacioz, Kansas’s own “Rosie the Riveter.” At 17, she went to work at Boeing in Wichita, helping build B-29 Superfortress bombers during World War II and bolstering America’s war effort. As we mourn her passing, we honor her sacrifice, patriotism and enduring legacy of service to our nation.

You can read more about Connie’s life from KWCH here.



Photo from: Doc's Friends, Inc.

Now Accepting 2026 Service Academy Applications
Applications are now open for students to apply to a United States Service Academy for the Class of 2031. One of my favorite duties as a U.S. Senator is appointing Kansans to the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York; the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York.

For the list of requirements and to apply, you can visit my website here. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CT on September 18, 2026. After applications have been reviewed, applicants will be notified of interviews with my Service Academy Selection Board. 

Capitol Tour

Jodi and Macey Boise of Leavenworth

Kerry and Stephanie Breon of Phillipsburg

Trenton Heinen of Valley Center

Bridget and Tim Lewallen of Paola

Hope, Julia, Mary, Matthew and Tony Mattivi of Topeka

Tom Oltjen of Overland Park

Paul Parks of Overland Park

Ed Phillips of Olathe

Jordan Schmeidler of Olathe

Corey and Rachel Schramm of Gardner

Amber and Brian Shrader of Phillipsburg

Guy and Nancy Snowdy of Lenexa

Brenda Todd of Seneca

Michelle Zautner of Olathe

Great Alliance

Ryan Northup of Kansas City

American Academy of Pediatrics

Bahar Barani of Overland Park

Dena Hubbard of Kansas City

Erin McCann of Olathe

GuideTech

James Cook of Lenexa

Historic Jayhawk Theatre

Joanne Morrell of Topeka

National Society of Professional Surveyors

Trenton Heinen of Valley Center

Christopher Idhe of Olathe

Nurses United

Katherine Cass of Overland Park

Mary Warriner of Wichita

Greater Kansas City Chamber

Ron Achepohl of Kansas City

Erik Bergrud of Kansas City

Erin Brower of Kansas City

Reagan Cussimanio of Kansas City

Ava Delsemme of Kansas City

Branden Haralson of Kansas City

Matt Haase of Kansas City

Zach Helder of Kansas City

Audrey Hill of Kansas City

Beau Jackson of Kansas City

Courtney Kawelaske of Kansas City

Erica Logan of Kansas City

Cullen Maxey of Kansas City

Robert McCormack of Kansas City

Joe Reardon of Kansas City

Larry Rideaux of Kansas City

Dennis Ridenour of Kansas City

Julie Sailors of Kansas City

Miles Sandler of Kansas City

Mary Shannon of Kansas City

Carrie Sherer of Kansas City

Kevin Wallace of Kansas City

Bridgette Williams of Kansas City

Kansas City Area Transportation Authority

Terr Barr-Moore of Kansas City

Chuck Ferguson of Kansas City

Chris Whiting of Kansas City

UNICEF USA

Kiana Flores-Delgado of Emporia

Hailey Gant of Olathe

American Water Works Association

Steven Craig of Lawrence

Fred Jones of Garden City

Steve Nirchl of Kansas City

Cathy Tucker-Vogel of Topeka

Michelle Wirth of Overland Park

American Association of Career Schools

Kristi Cole of Wichita

Greg Kellogg of Overland Park

Ted Wise of Overland Park

KC Tech Council

Stephen Cosentino of Overland Park

Aaron Deacon of Mission

Shawn Knaebel of Olathe

Growth Energy

Kyle Adams of Lyons

Cyril Koniski of Russell

Ron Seeber of Topeka

Brian Wittenborn of Fairway

U.S. Travel Association

Marlee Carpenter of Topeka

Alan Carr of Kansas City

Sean Dixon of Topeka

Julie Roller Weeks of Abilene

Megan Welsh of Dodge City

Miliary Officers Association of America

Michael Kelly of Lawrence

Roy Yenchesky of Wichita

Bunting Magnetics Co.

Robert Bunting of Newton

Kansas Water Environment Association

Dillan Curtis of Derby

Alex Darby of Topeka

Susan Pekarek of Olathe

Tami Lorenzen of Olathe

Jamie Payne of Kansas City

Fraternal Government Relations Coalition

Cooper Hillman of Manhattan

Andrew Murga of Lawrence

American Veterinary Medical Education

Chris Blevins of Manhattan

Elizabeth Davis of Manhattan

AdAstra BIO

Kevin Mills of Shawnee  

Dennis Ridenour of Shawnee  

Plastics Industry Association

Shane Barber of Salina

Robert Bunting of Newton

Paul Goodwin of McPherson

Michael Hodges of De Soto

Barry Voorhees of Newton

Kansas State University

Dean Afsar of Manhattan

Kaden Spencer of Manhattan

Robinhood Money Drills

Kate Mielitz of Manhattan

American Traffic Safety Services Association

Melissa Cillessen of Kechi

Robert Cillessen of Kechi

Preston Green of Kansas City

Bradley Henry of Topeka

Kevin Shelton of Eudora

American Clean Power Association

Garth Griffith of Atwood

Marlon Mendez of Wichita

Marty Sneath of Salina

Owen Watson of Dodge City

American College of Gastroenterology

Mojtaba Olyaee of Leawood

National Funeral Directors Association

Jennifer Dawson of Parsons

Tiffany Fisher of Silver Lake

Christopher Holland of Olathe

Martin Mendicki of Parsons

Joshua Meyer of Concordia

Sydney Stephens of Garnett

United Motorcoach Association Bus and Motorcoach Industry Fly-In

James Blain of Overland Park

Association of Professional Rental Organizations

Josh Hogg of Hutchinson

Cody Karst of Lawrence

Michael Strong of Wichita

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Jordan Chen of Manhattan

Steph Wagner of Overland Park

American Academy of Ophthalmology

Mary Champion of Mission

William Clifford of Garden City

Aaron Veenis of Lenexa

Sara Walden of Prairie Village

Gary Weiner of Salina

Topeka Chamber of Commerce

Bob Ross of Topeka

National Community Pharmacists Association

Clair Batchelder of Lawrence

Brian Caswell of Baxter Springs

Van Coble of Moline

Allison Creek of Lawrence

Sabrina Flint of Goddard

Matthew Hayde of Topeka

Matthew Morrison of Dodge City

Dared Price of Winfield

Jordan Schmidt of Lawrence

Tyler Woods of Kansas City