Listening to Kansas Commodity Groups
I met with members of Kansas commodity and farm groups to discuss challenges and opportunities created by tariffs and the current state of the farm economy. We discussed opportunities for Kansas farmers through bilateral trade agreements with new international trading partners that Kansas commodities have not historically had as customers or where there is opportunity for increased demand. In Kansas, we grow more crops than we can consume and foreign markets are an important income for farmers’ bottom line. The current economic situation faced by farmers is bleak. Input prices are at an all-time high while commodity prices have been sustainably low. This is occurring at the same time as record land prices, high interest rates and the constant challenge of droughts and extreme weather. I will continue to advocate for measures in Congress that ensure the survival of family farms in Kansas particularly during challenging times as they are currently facing.

Thank you to the producers and representatives from Kansas Farm Bureau, Kansas Corn, Kansas Grain Sorghum and Kansas Soybeans who took time out of their weekend to share their thoughts with me.

Non-tariff barriers and unfair trading practices by foreign countries harm our producers, workers and consumers. Congress and the administration must work to make certain American producers are competing on a level playing field and ensure that American jobs are not being undermined by other countries’ efforts to distort trade policies and trade agreements. However, American tariffs are often met with reciprocal tariffs, which are frequently aimed at our farmers and ranchers. Tariffs have in the past caused the loss of agricultural markets to other countries. I hopes these new tariffs serve their purpose quickly and, where appropriate, be lowered or eliminated.

Restoring Congress’ Constitutional Authority in Foreign Trade
I joined legislation introduced by Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) to restore Congress’ constitutionally authorized role in setting and approving U.S. trade policy. The Trade Review Act of 2025 would require Congress to approve any new tariffs levied by the executive branch within 60 days or the tariffs will expire. The Constitution gives Congress the authority to make decisions regarding foreign commerce, including tariffs. This legislation allows the President to use tariffs to respond to emergencies while permitting Congress to weigh the appropriateness of any tariffs that are imposed.

Non-tariff barriers and unfair trading practices by foreign countries harm our producers, workers and consumers. Congress and the administration must work to make certain American producers are competing on a level playing field and make certain that American jobs are not being undermined by other countries’ efforts to distort trade policies and trade agreements. However, American tariffs are often met with reciprocal tariffs, which are frequently aimed at our farmers. Tariffs have in the past caused the loss of agricultural markets to other countries. I hope these new tariffs serve their purpose quickly and, where appropriate, be lowered or eliminated.

Questioning the Boeing CEO on Spirit Acquisition
I questioned Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg about the steps the company is taking to make certain that its production and maintenance are safe and about the future of Boeing’s operations in Kansas. Mr. Ortberg’s testimony comes amidst Boeing’s pending acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems, Kansas’ largest private employer. Spirit AeroSystems produces fuselages and other airframe components of Boeing’s 737 jet, as well as other commercial and defense products for Boeing in addition to other aviation and defense customers.

During the hearing, I asked for and received an assurance from Mr. Ortberg that Boeing would not move operations out of Kansas and that the company would actively pursue additional manufacturing opportunities in Wichita, pending closure of the acquisition. Kansas is home to a skilled aviation workforce and an extensive manufacturing infrastructure. I will continue to work on behalf of that workforce to make certain that Kansas’ aviation and aerospace supply chain remains competitive across the industry.

You can watch my questions to Mr. Ortberg here.


Advancing Legislation to Strengthen our National Security
This week, I voted to pass a negotiated budget resolution – the next step in the process to bolster our national security and improve protections at the southern border. With this passage, the resolution will head to the House for further consideration. Implementing a budget that combats the crisis at the southern border is critical to addressing the national security risk posed by an unsecure border. I am committed to working with my colleagues in Congress, the Trump administration and Border Patrol leaders to make certain servicemembers are best prepared to protect our nation’s borders.

Meeting with President Trump’s Nominees
Jared Isaacman
On Tuesday, I met with President Trump’s nominee to lead NASA, Jared Isaacman. During our meeting, Mr. Isaacman and I discussed his vision for NASA, including strengthening America’s leadership in space exploration and beating our geopolitical adversaries in returning to the Moon. We also discussed the critical need for NASA to spur advancements in space science and technology, which are necessary conditions for America to build a robust space economy. Kansas suppliers contribute to many NASA programs, including Artemis, and were instrumental in the recent successful launch of Artemis I in November of 2022. If confirmed, I look forward to working with Mr. Isaacman to continue NASA’s relationship with Kansas.


Brian Quintenz
This week, I met with President Trump’s nominee to become the next Chairman of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, Brian Quintenz. In our meeting, we discussed the necessity of fairly regulated futures and options markets for our farmers in Kansas. Maintaining the ability for agricultural producers to manage risk is especially important during price volatility. He also outlined his vision for the future of cryptocurrency markets here in the United States. As the Senate Committee on Agriculture considers a market structure for digital assets this Congress, it is critical that the United States maintains its leadership in innovation, while making certain all customers are protected. I appreciate Brian for taking the time to meet with me and look forward to his confirmation process.

Protecting Medicaid
This week, I spoke on the Senate floor highlighting the importance of Medicaid to Kansans. Medicaid is a national component in the federal government’s role of providing health care in our state. While I agree that any flaws or abuse of government programs should be eliminated, Congress must also work to protect the programs that work to assist vulnerable Americans, low-income Kansans, and those with disabilities, and keep hospital doors open and make certain rural communities continue to survive.

You can watch my full floor speech here.


Continuing efforts for Haskell University
The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs held a hearing with Native American education leaders to discuss issues facing Haskell University. In December, I joined Rep. Tracey Mann (R-Kan.) in releasing draft legislation that would federally charter Haskell Indian Nations University and transfer governance of the university from the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) to the Haskell Board of Regents, while maintaining federal funding for the university.

I am grateful for the support of the American Indian Higher Education Consortium (AIHEC) and the National Indian Education Association (NIEA) in crafting this legislation and appreciated the opportunity to speak with Ms. Ahniwake Rose, President and CEO of AIHEC and Mr. Jason Dropik, Executive Director of NIEA during the hearing about their thoughts on the proposed bill. I look forward to continuing to work to refine this legislation and make certain the Haskell Indian Nations University Act will provide the best possible outcome for the university, it’s students and staff.

Chairing a Hearing on VA Nominations
As the chairman, I led the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs hearing where we questioned President Trump’s nominees for three critically important positions at the Department of Veterans Affairs - Captain Samuel Brown to be Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs, Lieutenant Colonel James Baehr to be General Counsel and Captain Richard Topping to be Chief Financial Officer. Each of the nominees have served in the military themselves and discussed the role that the VA plays in their civilian lives. I appreciated hearing what their goals are, if confirmed, and how they will best support veterans in Kansas and across the country while working with Secretary Collins to improve the VA.

Requesting the Year-Round Use of E15 Fuel
I joined several of my colleagues in requesting President Trump to permit the year-round sale of E15 fuel through the summer of 2025. I support an all-of-the-above energy strategy which includes leveraging domestic biofuels like E15. This bipartisan letter requests that President Trump use the nationwide temporary waivers provided under the Clean Air Act to extend the Reid vapor pressure (RVP) waiver through the 2025 summer driving season. Sales of higher blends of biofuels, such as E15, during the summer months helps support domestic fuel supply, reduces costs at the pump and bolsters American agriculture.

Bolstering Transportation for World Cup Host Cities
On Tuesday, I reintroduced legislation to provide federal funding and planning assistance for cities hosting major global sporting events, including Kansas City, which will serve as a host city during FIFA Men’s World Cup in 2026. The Transportation Assistance for Olympic and World Cup Cities Act seeks to support local efforts to meet the transportation demands associated with these events and assist in the successful movement of fans, workers and goods during the World Cup, the 2028 Summer Olympics and the 2034 Winter Olympics.

The bill would provide resources to host cities through grant funding for projects that improve transportation in the region during global sporting events, empower the Department of Transportation to provide technical and planning assistance to host cities and to facilitate sharing of public transportation equipment and direct the Department of Commerce to study economic impacts of hosting these major global sporting events. Thank you to FIFA World Cup 2026 Kansas City and the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority, whose input has been instrumental as this legislation was developed.

Meeting with Kansans
Dr. Mark and Lou Allen
On Wednesday, I met with Dr. Mark Allen, his wife Lou and their son Chad. Dr. Allen is the grandson of the late “Father of Basketball Coaching,” Phog Allen. We discussed the game of basketball’s deep roots in the state of Kansas and ways to improve the promotion of our state’s rich basketball history for the betterment of our travel and tourism industry across Kansas. I want to thank the Allen family for taking the time to visit with me in Washington.


All Rise
I met with representatives from All Rise, which is an organization that advocates for the utilization of treatment courts to combat substance abuse and mental health disorders to provide a path forward to health and recovery. Substance abuse affects many families across our state and around the country, and through my role as Chairman of the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Subcommittee on the Senate Appropriations Committee, I have secured funding for the opening of veterans’ treatment courts in Sedgwick County, Leavenworth County and Douglas County. I want to thank Judge Renee Henry of the 29th Judicial District of Kansas, Major General Butch Tate of All Rise and Assistant District Attorney of Wyandotte County Viet Le for traveling to Washington to advocate for paths to recovery for those who need our help the most.


Leavenworth-Lansing Area Chamber of Commerce
On Thursday, I met with Jen Anders, President and CEO of the Leavenworth-Lansing Area Chamber of Commerce. It was great to discuss the ways the chamber is working to support businesses in the region. We discussed the regions’ federal partners at the Bureau of Prisons and Ft. Leavenworth and ways in which the business community has stepped up to provide goods and services for the federal workers, servicemembers and their families who call Leavenworth home.


Kansas Dental Association
On Monday, I met with members of the Kansas Dental Association. We spoke about the challenges facing dentists across the country and the barriers dental residents face practicing in rural areas. I thank the Kansas Dental Association for their advocacy and work to make certain every Kansan has access to quality oral health care.


Kansas Beverage Association
On Tuesday, I met with representatives of the Kansas Beverage Association to discuss their priorities and how Congress can support the beverage industry. I’m grateful the folks at Heartland Coca-Cola Bottling Company make their home in Kansas, and I am working to make certain they and companies like them have the ability to grow and thrive.


Phil and Laura Hinger
This week, I had a chance to visit with Phil and Laura Hinger, residents of my hometown of Plainville, before their tour of the Capitol. Thank you for taking the time to visit with me and update me on the happenings in Plainville.


Congrats to Pittsburg State University on NCAA National Championships
Last month, the Pittsburg State University Men’s and Women’s track teams both clinched the 2025 NCAA Division II Indoor National Championship title. Congratulations Gorillas on your record-breaking season.

Now Accepting 2025 Service Academy Applications
Applications are now open for students to apply to a United States Service Academy for the Class of 2030. 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. All application materials are due to my Olathe office by Friday, October 4, 2025. After applications have been reviewed, applicants will be notified of interviews with my Service Academy Selection Board.

Kansans in the Office 
Capitol Tours
Emily Aversman of Shawnee

Denise Aversman of Concordia

Kerri Callaway of Clay Center

Darian Callaway of Clay Center

Dr. Mary Champion of Fairway

Maralee Clark of Garnett

Jeffrey Clark of Garnett

Isaac Clark of Garnett

Kyler Clark of Garnett

Laura Hinger of Plainville

Phil Hinger of Plainville

Sheli Johnson of Shawnee

Timothy Kutzberger of Olathe

 Shawn Magee of Kansas City

Zach Mitchell of Manhattan

Emily Mitchell of Manhattan

Debbi Naster of Olathe

Patricia Norman of Olathe

Linda C. Pope of Eureka

Amy Reese of McPherson

Merrill Reese of McPherson

Linda Reese of McPherson

Caroline Wingert of Ottawa

All Rise

Viet Q. Le of Kansas City

General Butch Tate of Leavenworth

Judge Renee Henry of Kansas City

American Academy of Ophthalmology

Mary Champion of Mission Hills

William Clifford of Garden City

Steven Cohen of Leawood

Dante Pennipede of Prairie Village

Ajay Singh of Prairie Village

Jackson Voss of Kansas City

Gary Weiner of Salina

Anne Wishna of Leawood

American Astronomical Society

Christian Argueta of Garden City

American College of Gastroenterology

Mojtaba Olyaee of Leawood

Salih Samo of Overland Park

American Frozen Food Institute

Laura McCready of Topeka

Sandy Gaudet of Garnett

Danielle Reid of Edwardsville

American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering

Amy Hite of Pittsburg

Ken Fischer of Mclouth

Jean Giddens of Westwood

American Society of Consultant Pharmacists

Jessica Anduff of Kansas City

Anna Meyer of Kansas City

Lindsay Seidel of Kansas City

American Traffic Safety Services Association

Brad Henry of Topeka

Kevin Shelton of Eudora

Council of Autism Service Providers

Dan Soliday of Wichita

Department of Aging and Human Services

Tim Wholf of Olathe

Kansas Diaper Banks

Susan Belger of Kansas City

Hannah Hummel of Topeka

Kansas Restaurant and Hospitality Association

Chris Arnold of Wichita

John Arnold of Wichita

Andrew Kneessey of Kansas City

Janez Lomsheck of Overland Park

Kelly Magee of Kansas City

Adam Mills of Wichita

Ron Oberg of Wichita

Hugh O’Reilly of Overland Park

Randy Priebes of Kansas City

Jennifer Ray of Wichita

Scott Schneider of Wichita

Kelly Hills Unmanned Systems

Lukas Koch of Seneca

Chad Tenpenny of Leawood

Leavenworth-Lansing Area Chamber of Commerce

Jen Anders of Leavenworth

Lumberman Association

Jim Bishop of Bonner Springs

Sue Bishop of Bonner Springs

National Association of Dental Plans

Cory Reynolds of Olathe

National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians

Chrissy Bartel of Norwich

Frank Williams of El Dorado

National Association of International Educators

Diana Carlin of Lawrence

Cindy Elliot of Hays

Mehran Shahidi of Hays

National Association of Workforce Boards

Joni Bolen of Salina

Debra Scheibler of Manhattan

Keely Schneider of Lenexa

Gail Schuetz of Kansas City

National Council on Severe Autism

Joan Kelly of Gardner

National Hydropower Association

Sarah Nelson of Lawrence

National Sorghum Producers

Amy France of Scott City

Phog Allen Family

Chad Allen of Mission Hills

Mark Allen of Mission Hills

Lou Allen of Mission Hills

Portland Cement Association

Brian Burmaster of Salina

Vince Martin of Overland Park

Russ Simonson of Overland Park

Travis Young of Salina

University of Kansas Astrophysics Department

Ian Crossfield of Lawrence

U.S. Travel Association

Alan Carr of Kansas City

Katie Walkley of Overland Park

Julie Roller Weeks of Abilene

Jim Zaleski of Parsons 

USCF Medical Students

Guled Abdi of Kansas City

340b Health

Tracy Gilmore of Parsons

Ashley Harlow of Parsons