Recognizing National Police Week
This week, our nation observed National Police Week, a time to honor the dedication and sacrifices of the law enforcement officers who protect our communities in Kansas and across the country. We also remember those who have lost their lives in the line of duty – including Undersheriff Brandon Gaede, Deputy Elijah Ming, Officer Hunter Simoncic and Sergeant Scott Heimann, Kansans who gave the ultimate sacrifice protecting their communities this past year. We will never forget their service and sacrifice, and my prayers remain with their loved ones.

To all the Kansas law enforcement officers – thank you. May God bless and protect you as you faithfully serve and protect us.


Leading Hearing to Review FY27 Budget Request for Federal Law Enforcement
During National Police Week, I chaired a Commerce, Justice and Science Senate Appropriations Subcommittee hearing reviewing the President’s FY27 budget request for the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), U.S. Marshals Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The committee heard testimony from FBI Director Kash Patel, DEA Administrator Terrance Cole, U.S. Marshals Service Director Gadyaces Serralta and ATF Director Robert Cekada.

During the hearing, I highlighted the important role federal law enforcement agencies play in supporting Kansas communities, including ATF’s expanding partnership with Wichita State University, DEA’s work combating fentanyl trafficking and supporting rural law enforcement, the FBI’s coordination efforts ahead of the FIFA 2026 World Cup in Kansas City and the U.S. Marshals Service’s fugitive task force operations across Kansas. Making certain that federal law enforcement officers have the resources, staffing and technology necessary to protect Kansans and combat violent crime is my priority, and I will continue working to make certain our law enforcement has the resources it needs.

You can watch my opening statement here and my questioning of the witnesses here and here.


Chairing Hearing to Examine VA Police Operations
Also during National Police Week, I led a Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing to discuss the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) police operations. The committee heard from VA employees, the Government Accountability Office (GAO), and Kansan Chad Allan, who is the Chief of Police at the Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas.

During the hearing, members of the committee discussed the importance of appropriate police staffing, campus security measures and how the VA can improve its overall support of its law enforcement officers. Close to 90% of the VA police workforce is made up of veterans. By combining their personal experience with advanced crisis intervention training, VA police are uniquely equipped to manage difficult situations with veterans in crisis and make certain that VA campuses are safe and secure.

Thank you to all of the VA police officers in Kansas and across the country for the work that they do every day to keep veterans, their families and VA staff safe. A special thank you to Dole VA Police Chief Chad Allan for his hard work and dedication to protecting Kansas veterans and to his wife Beth for traveling with him to D.C. for his testimony before the committee.

You can watch my opening statement here and my questioning of the witnesses here and here.


Questioning Ag Leaders on Impact of Fertilizer Prices for Farmers
The Senate Committee on Agriculture held a hearing on Tuesday to examine the state of the fertilizer industry. Kansas farmers are feeling the strain of persistently high fertilizer prices, compounded by low commodity prices. During the hearing, I raised questions about the global fertilizer supply chain and the issues with sourcing fertilizer ingredients, such as ammonia, phosphate and potash. As the U.S. is a net importer of fertilizer, supply chain disruptions can affect availability and costs for farmers.

I also emphasized that, while tariffs could be well-intentioned to protect the domestic industry and increase production, they may also affect access to components needed to manufacture fertilizer at the scale producers rely on. Our producers are facing difficult circumstances without the financial security they need to weather the next challenge. But even as they confront high input costs, Kansas farmers continue working to grow the food, fuel and fiber our nation depends on. I will continue to work with my colleagues to find solutions that provide accessible, affordable fertilizer to farmers and support policies that provide certainty to our producers.

You can watch my questioning of the witnesses here.


Reviewing the President’s FY27 Budget Request for the Department of Defense
This week, during a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense hearing to review the Department of Defense’s (DOD) FY27 budget request, I questioned Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on the growing threats posed by China, Russia and Iran. I emphasized the importance of strong alliances and capable partners as the U.S. responds to challenges across multiple theaters simultaneously. As NATO allies increase defense spending and Europe assumes a greater role supporting Ukraine, it is critical the defense budget reflects the need to strengthen allied integration, maintain readiness and sustain American leadership abroad.

During the hearing, I also questioned Secretary Hegseth regarding the DOD’s reversal of support on the bipartisan ROTOR Act, legislation I introduced with Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) that passed unanimously in the Senate following the tragic January 29, 2025, midair collision near Reagan National Airport. The legislation was negotiated with the Pentagon over several months and included language requested by the DOD to protect sensitive national security operations. I pressed the department to explain why, after previously supporting the legislation, it came out in opposition on the day before it was voted on by the House. I also asked Secretary Hegseth how the DOD and Congress can continue working together to make certain this important aviation safety legislation can move forward.

You can watch my questioning of Secretary Hegseth here.


Update on U.S. Military Operation in Iran
The ceasefire with Iran continues to hold, and the blockade of Iranian shipping remains in place. While there are indications the blockade is beginning to impact Iran’s economy, the regime’s leadership remains unwilling to meet President Trump’s demands regarding their nuclear program or reopening the Strait of Hormuz to all traffic. A breakthrough does not appear imminent, but proposals continue to be exchanged. The President’s waiver on sanctions of certain Russian oil sales expired on Saturday, and I am deeply disappointed by the decision to renew the waiver for yet another 30 days. The waiver provides little tangible benefit to American consumers but enables Russia to acquire billions of dollars in revenue to sustain its war in Ukraine and support for Iran. This waiver harms our national interests, and I will continue to urge the full enforcement of sanctions imposed by the President last year.

Discussing NTSB Investigation into DCA Midair Collision with Chairwoman Homendy
On Tuesday, I met with National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy to discuss its investigation into the mid-air collision at DCA and how the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has responded to the NTSB’s aviation safety recommendations. The findings revealed that years of ignored warnings and unaddressed risks contributed to the tragic crash. We discussed the next steps that FAA needs to implement to prevent another tragedy. Thank you to Chairwoman Homendy for her work to strengthen the U.S. aviation system.


Speaking with CMS Administrator Oz
This week, I spoke with Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Mehmet Oz about the latest benefits to Kansas as a result of last year’s Reconciliation Bill process. A recent RAND study shows that Kansas is projected to take in increased Medicaid revenue as a result of reconciliation. During the reconciliation process, I worked to make certain the legislation included an increased hospital provider assessment rate, which is expected to generate $1 billion annually for Kansas providers. We also spoke about a pending application that would increase payments to Critical Access Hospitals and Rural Emergency Hospitals by $72 million annually, which is currently under review by CMS. Ensuring this application could be considered favorably by CMS was one of my priorities in last year’s Reconciliation Bill process. Finally, we discussed Kansas’ implementation of the $222M Rural Health Transformation program award over the course of this year. I will continue to work with the Administrator to ensure Kansas health care providers have the federal supports needed to provide quality, accessible care to Kansans.

Introducing Legislation to Improve Access to ABLE Accounts
This week, I introduced a bipartisan package of legislation with Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) to strengthen and improve access to the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) accounts. ABLE accounts provide people with disabilities the opportunity to open tax-advantaged savings accounts for qualified disability-related expenses without the risk of losing eligibility for certain benefits.

As an original sponsor of the legislation that created ABLE accounts in 2014, I have long supported efforts to help individuals with disabilities and their families achieve greater financial security and independence. These bills would build on the success of the ABLE program by expanding access, improving awareness and making it easier for individuals to save for the future without jeopardizing eligibility for important federal programs.

This legislation would also help increase participation in ABLE accounts among eligible individuals and provide additional tools to support individuals with disabilities as they plan for education, housing, transportation and other essential needs. Through my role as the co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Down Syndrome, I will continue working to support policies that expand opportunities and improve quality of life for Kansans with disabilities and their families.

You can read more about my legislation here.

Urging Administration to Reinstate Title X Protect Life Rule
This week, I joined my colleagues in urging President Trump and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kennedy to reinstate the Title X Protect Life Rule. Title X is a federal grant program administered by HHS that provides funding for family planning and preventive health services.

The Protect Life Rule issued by the first Trump administration helped restore important safeguards within the Title X program by preventing federal family planning funds from being used to subsidize abortion providers and eliminating requirements that Title X recipients provide abortion referrals.

I remain committed to supporting efforts to uphold the dignity of life and, consistent with federal law, prevent taxpayer dollars from being used to support abortion services.

Judiciary Committee Approves Kansas Federal Judge Nominees
On Thursday, the Senate Judiciary Committee advanced three Kansas federal judicial nominees, Jeffrey Kuhlman, The Honorable Anthony Powell and Tony Mattivi. I am pleased the committee advanced their nominations to fill vacant positions on the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas. Their personal expertise, commitment to serving Kansans and our country and upholding the rule of law make these nominees highly qualified to serve as federal judges.

I had the opportunity to introduce them during their nomination hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, and I supported their selection by President Trump after a lengthy process where we considered many qualified candidates to fill the positions. I look forward to supporting their confirmations by the full Senate and urging my colleagues to vote in favor of their nominations.

Meeting with Kansans
Association of American Cancer Institutes and American Association for Cancer Research
On Thursday, I met with Dr. Roy Jensen, Director of the University of Kansas Cancer Center, and Jason Hale, Chair of the Community Advisory Board at the Cancer Center, who were advocating on behalf of the Association of American Cancer Institutes and the American Association for Cancer Research. We discussed the importance of sustained federal investment in biomedical research and the lifesaving work being conducted at cancer centers across the country, including in Kansas.

I have helped secure more than $105 million in federal resources for the University of Kansas Cancer Center since 2022 to support the construction and equipment needs of the new, state-of-the-art cancer research facility. This facility will bring researchers together under one roof, strengthen collaboration and expand access to innovative treatments and clinical trials for patients across Kansas and the region.

For more than a decade, I have worked to support the Cancer Center’s mission, including its achievement of National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center status. More broadly, I have also supported increased funding for the National Institutes of Health and the National Cancer Institute which is conducting research today that is leading to the treatments and cures of tomorrow.

The University of Kansas Cancer Center continues to be a national leader in cancer research and patient care, and I appreciate the continued leadership of Dr. Jensen and Jason Hale in this important work.


National Volunteer Fire Council
On Thursday, I met with Steve Hirsch of Sheridan County, the current Chairman of the National Volunteer Fire Council, to discuss support for volunteer fire departments and emergency responders across Kansas and the country. I’m grateful for Steve’s leadership and for the service and sacrifice of firefighters across our state who work every day to keep Kansans safe. I will continue working to make certain our fire departments and first responders have the resources, training and support necessary to carry out their mission and protect our communities.


Dwight D. Eisenhower Excellence in Public Service Series
I appreciated the opportunity to meet with members of this year’s Dwight D. Eisenhower Excellence in Public Service Series during their annual trip to Washington, D.C. This program allows women from across Kansas to participate in leadership and professional development opportunities in government and public policy. We discussed their involvement in their communities and the importance of supporting our law enforcement officers. Thank you to the Eisenhower Series class for their efforts to invest in our state and for meeting with me.


Owens Corning
On Wednesday, I appreciated meeting with Jose Canovas, President of Owens Corning’s Insulation business, to discuss the company’s $200 million expansion of its Kansas City, Kansas fiberglass insulation plant. Owens Corning announced this major investment in September 2025, and the new production line is expected to come online in 2027. Insulation is essential to creating energy-efficient homes, and Owens Corning’s ongoing investment supports the broader need for affordable, efficient housing. We also discussed the importance of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, critical housing legislation that passed the Senate earlier this year with overwhelming support and is designed to increase housing supply, reduce costs and expand homeownership opportunities. I appreciate Owens Corning’s long-term commitment to Kansas, including through its Kansas City and Pittsburg facilities.


City of Olathe
On Wednesday, I met with Olathe leaders and members of the Olathe Chamber of Commerce to discuss priorities for the community, including my efforts to urge the U.S. Postal Service to relocate the local U.S. Post Office and construct a new, efficient and modern facility. We also discussed infrastructure and transportation issues facing the Olathe community and how I can support these efforts on the federal level. Thank you to Olathe Mayor John Bacon; Mayor Pro Tem Dean Vakas; City Councilmember & State Representative Robyn Essex, City Councilmembers LeEtta Felter, Kevin Deneault and Jeff Creighton; City Manager Susan Sherman; Olathe Assistant Attorney Amanda Stanley; Olathe Fire Chief Jeff DeGraffenreid; and Olathe Chamber President Tim McKee for meeting with me.


Fuel True
On Thursday, I met with members of Fuel True, which represents Kansas independent energy marketers and convenience store operators. We discussed different policies affecting Kansas convenience stores, including the Credit Card Competition Act and the availability of pennies following the U.S. Mint’s decision to end the production of pennies late last year. We also spoke about the House of Representatives’ recent passage of legislation that would allow the year-round sale of E15, a policy I have long supported that would grow the market for Kansas corn producers and lower prices at the gas pump, as well as how USDA nutrition policies and the Farm Bill affect convenience stores. Thank you to Fuel True Executive Director Brian Polsler, Marvin Spees and Chris Johnson of Fleet Fuels, Scott Barkley of Mid-Kansas Coop of McPherson, Chandler Brass of John E. Jones Oil of Stockton, and Scott Zaremba of Zarco USA of Lawrence. Their input was valuable as the Senate works to reauthorize the Farm Bill, and I appreciate their time and conversation.


Participating in Groundbreaking Ceremony for New Eisenhower Education Center
On Friday, I participated in the groundbreaking for the new Eisenhower Education Center in Abilene, that will be built on the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum grounds. The center will give students a place to learn through immersive environments like the Oval Office Classroom, where they step into the role of decision-makers; the Command Center, modeled on real-world crisis rooms; and the Learning Lab, designed for hands-on science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM) exploration. The center will also provide technology-ready rooms for schools in the community. It’s fitting that the new education center will stand in Abilene, the hometown of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. President Eisenhower understood that education was essential not only to individual success, but for the strength of the country. This center will help carry on his legacy and equip the next generation of American leaders and engaged citizens. Thank you to Eisenhower Foundation Executive Director Meredith Sleichter for the invitation.

I’d like to extend a special thank you to President Eisenhower’s granddaughter Mary Jean Eisenhower for joining us for the event. Thank you to Eisenhower Foundation Board President Kyle Campbell, Acting Executive for Presidential Libraries for the National Archives Tamara Martin, Abilene Mayor Brandon Rein, Sen. Roger Marshall, State Sen. Scott Hill and State Reps. Greg Wilson, Dawn Wolf, and Mike King. Thank you also to Dickinson County Commissioner Lynn Peterson, Dickinson County Economic Development Corporation CEO Natalie Muruato, Abilene Director of Tourism Julie Roller-Weeks, Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Perry Wiggins and Dr. Michael Whitechair for joining to celebrate this extraordinary event.


Visiting with Kansans in Sylvan Grove
I traveled to Sylvan Grove this week to visit with members of the community. During my visit, I stopped by City Hall, Sylvan-Lucas USD 299 and Bennington State Bank. I also visited with folks at Sylvan Grove City Library, John Thaemert Farms and Feedlot Bar and Grill. Thank you to the entire Sylvan Grove community and all those who took the time to meet with me.


Remembering Charlie Meade of Dodge City
I was saddened to hear of the passing of Dodge City native Charlie Meade. Becoming a U.S. Marshal for Dodge City in 1965, Charlie was known by many in his community simply as The Marshal and dedicated much of his life to protecting the community he loved. Charlie was a devoted member of the Trail of Fame and Ford County Historical society, serving as a spirited ambassador for Dodge City history and the western tradition. Charlie’s passion for sharing stories of the Old West brought a smile to all who knew him, and he will forever be part of Dodge City history. My prayers are with his wife, Vicki, his family, friends and the entire Dodge City community.

You can read more about Charlie’s life from KSN here.



Recognizing Kansas Farmer Jacquelyne Leffler
In March, 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 during this International Year of the Woman Farmer. I especially want to recognize Lyon County farmer Jacquelyne Leffler. Jacquelyne grew up in Kansas agriculture and carries on that legacy by working with her dad on their fourth-generation farm and ranch. From managing the operation in Americus to fostering connections through her leadership in ag organizations, Jacquelyne is making a significant impact in her community and state. Thank you, Jacquelyne, for your tireless efforts to support Kansas agriculture.


Now Accepting Fall 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 fall 2026 session are due Sunday, May 31, 2026. 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 Fall 2026 Page Applications
Applications are now open for the fall 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. Fall 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, May 31, 2026.

Click here for more information and to apply.

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. 

Beth and Chad Allan of Douglass

Alan and Teresa Doty of Overland Park

Thomas Doty of Olathe

Lance and Nicole Fisher of Hays

Brandon, Kelly, Lawson, Leyton and Lillia Fischer of Olathe

Derrek, Heidi, Jackson and Samuel Hogan of Gardner

Beth and James Kornegay of Shawnee

Johnson, Josiah, Liz, and Titus Lee of Edgerton

Dakota and Rosa Reese of Hays

American College of Physicians Services

Abebe Abebe of Shawnee

Isaac Opole of Overland Park

Rebecca Opole of Leawood

Benjamin Quick of Leawood

Ky Stoltzfus of Kansas City

Donna Sweet of Wichita

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Audrey Bonn of Shawnee

Kristen Bray of Lenexa

Angela Hommertzheim of Merriam

American Land Title Association

Elizabeth Daniel of Lawrence

Amber McDowell of Paola

Chris St. John of Topeka

Candi Slobodnik of Spring Hill

John Stauffer of Leawood

Association of American Cancer Institutes & the American Association for Cancer Research

Joaquina Baranda of Fairway

Jason Hale of Kansas City

Roy Jensen of Kansas City

Beef Alliance

Jerrod Westfahl of Manhattan

City of Olathe and Olathe Chamber of Commerce

John Bacon of Olathe

Desiree Baus of Wichita

Robert Bisterfeldt of Whitewater

Emily Borberg of Lindsborg

Jeff Creighton of Olathe

Jeff DeGraffenreid of Olathe

Kevin Deneault of Olathe

Robyn Essex of Olathe

LeEtta Felter of Olathe

Bryan Heilman of Wichita

Tim McKee of Olathe

Derick Nordell of Hays

Susan Sherman of Olathe

Amanda Stanley of Olathe

CRH Americas

Paul Davis of Lawrence

Aaron Fouts of Lenexa

Chad Girard of Olathe

Shawn Riley of Wichita

Edward Jones Grassroots Task Force

Kate Thompson of Leawood

Emily Stewart of Newton

Eisenhower Series

Desiree Baus of Wichita

Robby Bisterfeldt of Wichita

Cathy Boote of Derby

Maria Brungardt of Wichita

Chelsea Chaney of Leawood

Lanell Griffith of Topeka

Kylie B. Hicken of Abilene

Jamie Kissinger of Wichita

Pennie Kloss of Berryton

Sara Larson of Randolph

Betty Mattingly-Ebert of Manhattan

Donna Rhodes of Derby

Mary Scharfe of Manhattan

Emily Wellman of Alden

Karla Woods of Wichita

Kenty Zehring of Derby

H&R Block Franchisee Leadership Council

Jeremy Stohs of Lake Quivira

National Association of Music Merchants

Amanda Rueter of Shawnee