Border Battle Continues

Border Battle Continues
The House of Representatives delivered articles of impeachment against Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas to the Senate. Instead of having a trial, Senate Democrats took the unprecedented step to, without debate, deem the impeachment articles unconstitutional. It is the Senate’s unique responsibility to hear the charges brought against the secretary and determine if he should be removed from his cabinet position.

The crisis at our southern border threatens our national security and endangers the lives of Americans and migrants. As the chief enforcer of border security, Secretary Mayorkas bears responsibility for the disastrous policies that have incentivized more than 9 million people from 160 countries to unlawfully enter the U.S., including members on the terrorist watch list. As a result of ignoring the articles, the Senate has failed to fulfill one of its fundamental duties required by the Constitution. Our borders remain open, the humanitarian crisis continues and American lives are still being put at risk.

Discussing National Security Supplemental with Bret Baier
I joined Fox News Special Report with Bret Baier to discuss the pressing need for Congress to pass the National Security Supplemental. In February, the Senate passed a bill to replenish our military assets and to supply our partners and allies in Israel, Ukraine and the Indo-Pacific with the resources they need to defend themselves against adversaries, including Iran, Russia and China.

Iran’s unprecedented attack on Israel, makes it even more critical for Congress to pass legislation to equip our partners and allies to respond to these attacks. This is also vital for our own national security. We are at a consequential moment in history, and the U.S. must be a steadfast and reliable ally amid so many dangers that threaten our national security.

You can watch my interview with Sen. Michael Bennett (D-Colo.) and Bret Baier on Fox News here.

Addressing President Biden’s Energy Policies
On Thursday, I joined my Republican colleagues to address the national security implications of the Biden administration’s energy policies. Kansans produce a significant amount energy that create jobs and help families. The administration’s decision to pause the export of liquified natural gas inhibits us from providing vital resources to our allies and instead enables our enemies.

Iran is the largest exporter of terrorism in the world, and they afford this by producing and selling oil. While the administration announced more sanctions on Iran, this administration fails to support the bipartisan sanctions that are already in place. As a result, Iran’s oil exports and production have increased at alarming rates and is at a five-year high. In addition, Iran sells 90 percent of its oil to China at discounted rates – freeing up money for China to further their aggression in the South China Sea and around the world.

We should be the energy leader of the world, producing our own energy and protecting our allies.

You can watch my remarks here.

Recognizing Jake LaTurner’s Time in Congress
I am sad to know that come January, Kansans in the second district will no longer be represented by Congressman Jake LaTurner. Jake cares so much about the wellbeing of Kansans and has worked to do what is right for them and all Americans. I appreciate his desire to be with Suzanne and his young family, and I wish him the very best. Between now and the end of his term, I look forward to working with Jake for a better America.

Questioning Attorney General Merrick Garland
This week, as the Ranking Member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, I lead a hearing alongside Chair Jeanne Shaheen to discuss the President’s Budget Request for the Department of Justice. The committee hosted Attorney General Merrick Garland as the lead witness, and we discussed topics including providing the necessary support our law enforcement officials need to keep our communities safe, the dangers that currently face our communities in Kansas and across the country and steps the Department of Justice is doing to dismantle these threats to the public.

Our state and nation face unprecedented challenges, including the deadly flow of fentanyl through our porous southern border, threats from foreign terrorist organizations due to increased tensions overseas and growing adversaries including China and Russia. I will continue to support the needs of law enforcement in Kansas and across the country, and I will work with the Department of Justice to fund initiatives that will make our nation a safer place.

Additionally, I used this opportunity to check on the status of operations of USP Leavenworth with General Garland, who promised to swiftly provide an update on the status of the prison. I will continue to monitor this situation and look forward to hearing from the Bureau of Prisons.

You can watch my questioning here.

Mitigating AI Security Risks
This week, I joined my colleagues in the Senate to highlight the potential national security risks associated with the development of AI systems. The evolution of artificial intelligence is an opportunity for U.S. innovation, efficiency and strategic advantage. However, we must responsibly harness the power of AI and make certain we are mitigating extreme risks that would threaten our national security. My colleagues and I developed a framework to begin discussions regarding how the U.S. can mitigate national security risks in a manner that ensures innovators are still able to secure a competitive edge over our adversaries in this critical technology area.

Meeting with Bombardier
On Monday evening, I met with Bombardier's CEO Eric Martel to discuss their ongoing work to support the Department of Defense and their commercial customers. Bombardier previously announced the establishment of its U.S. and defense headquarters in Wichita which specialize in designing, testing and modifying commercial aircraft for military applications. Some key Bombardier programs led by the Wichita facility include the Air Force's Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) and the High Accuracy Detection Exploitation System (HADES). BACN provides the Air Force with a long-range, airborne command and control system, and the HADES program provides the Army with necessary deep-sensing targeting and surveillance capability to support combat operations.

Thank you to Mr. Martel for his continued commitment to supporting our national security needs and his company's investment in Kansas.

Analyzing the Navy and Marine Corps Budgets
This week, I also attended a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense hearing to discuss the President's budget request for the United States Navy and Marine Corps. I appreciate Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, Admiral Lisa Franchetti and General Eric Smith testifying before the committee. I asked General Smith about the significance of the CH-53K King Stallion, a heavy-lift helicopter that supports organic mobility in contested environments, whose cabin is produced in Wichita. During the hearing, I also had the opportunity to discuss the role of the commercial industry in providing Artificial Intelligence with Admiral Franchetti. The Navy's Disruptive Capabilities Office plays a pivotal role in developing technologies that enhance our defense capabilities.

I also asked Secretary Del Toro about the Navy's management of the 190,000 Camp Lejeune claims. I look forward to having the Navy more rapidly process administrative claims, ensuring veterans receive fair settlements. We discussed the multitude of threats the U.S. faces globally. As we heard from the Navy about the need for funding for various military capabilities, I appreciate the emphasis on the National Security Supplemental. This funding is essential for rebuilding our readiness, sending an important warning to our adversaries and supporting our allies.

You can watch my questioning here.

Discussing NIL Legislation
On Wednesday, I met with SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey and Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti to discuss my efforts to enact a federal law that would ensure college athletes are able to exercise their name, image and likeness (NIL) rights. I have continued to work with my Senate colleagues on legislation that would establish a national standard for NIL on the college level and give athletes economic and educational opportunities. We discussed recent events that have made it more difficult for conferences and the NCAA to enforce their own rules and the importance of having a federal law that protects college athletes and the future of college athletics.

Urging Passage of the Farm Bill to the Ag Secretary
On Tuesday, the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture hosted the United States Secretary of Agriculture, Secretary Tom Vilsack, to hear his testimony on the President’s FY25 budget request. I took this opportunity to express my frustration with the failures of the Senate Democratic Agriculture Committee leadership to pursue reauthorization of the farm bill. The inaction will result in further uncertainty for farmers and ranchers as they head into planting this year’s crops. I also asked the secretary for a status update on the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) transition in Manhattan. I’m pleased to hear activities are moving and that the facility is on target to operate by the end of this year. It is critically important to have this facility operational, given the current dispersion of H5N1 – the bird flu currently infecting dairy cows and poultry flocks around the nation.

Secretary Vilsack also provided an update on H5N1. I encouraged USDA to partner with land grant universities, like K-State, to help develop vaccines and therapies to combat the spread of the disease within livestock and other mammals. Currently, USDA expects to have these tools ready and available in 15-18 months. I appreciate the Secretary’s update and look forward to working together to find viable solutions against H5N1.

You can watch my questioning here.

Addressing VA Staffing Shortages
On Monday, I joined my colleague Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.) to demand answers from VA Secretary Denis McDonough regarding the department’s plans to pause hiring and cut 10,000 full-time jobs despite increases in health care enrollment, eligibility and long wait times. Last year saw unprecedented enrollment growth due to eligibility expansions, and VA was able to provide more clinical appointments than any previous year. It was surprising to learn that VHA was implementing a policy of “zero growth” in the remainder of FY24 and cut nearly 10,000 full-time employees considering great demand.

This decision could have long-term impacts on VA’s ability to deliver timely, high-quality care to our nation’s veterans, but also can negatively impact VA and VHA’s ability to recruit and retain health care professionals. VA should create a hiring strategy in coordination with Congress and local facilities that prioritizes providing care to the increasing number of veterans who are seeking the health care services they have not only earned but deserve. I look forward to the department’s response and explanation of its management, hiring and personnel decisions at VHA to best support our nation’s veterans.

You can read the full letter here.

Visiting with Dr. Bob Ballard
This week, I had the opportunity to meet with renowned oceanographer, Dr. Bob Ballard. A native Kansan, Dr. Ballard is well known for his discovery of the Titanic and his efforts to uncover Amelia Earhart’s aircraft in the Pacific Ocean. Dr. Ballard updated me on the ongoing work to uncover Amelia Earhart’s aircraft and his work providing educational opportunities to young students. I remain grateful for Dr. Ballard’s work and his commitment to uncovering the mystery surrounding Amelia Earhart’s aircraft.

Discussing Leavenworth Penitentiary with Bureau of Prisons Director
After learning about increased security measures being put in place at USP Leavenworth, I called the Director of the Bureau of Prisons Collette Peters to request an update. She and I discussed the status of the prison and the events that led them to enforce stricter security measures. I will continue to monitor the activity of the prison and ensure the safety of corrections officers and inmates alike.

Meetings with Kansans
Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce
This week, the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce visited Washington, D.C. for their annual meetings. This was an opportunity for the KC Chamber to highlight the exciting growth of the Kansas City area and recent projects that have contributed to the local economy. This includes the expansion of The University of Kansas Health System, new research at KU Cancer Center, Panasonic’s arrival, the federal Tech Hub designation and preparations for the World Cup. It was also great to see Fahteema Parrish, founder of Parrish & Sons Construction which won the Greater KC Chamber Small Business of the Year Award for 2023.

Thank you to Chamber President and CEO Joe Reardon and members of the chamber for visiting with me and for all the work you do to make Kansas City a great place to live and work.

Eagle Picher
This week, I met with Eagle Picher, the largest manufacturer of thermal batteries in the United States. Thermal batteries are non-rechargeable electric batteries that support various capabilities in our military. I had the opportunity to visit their location in Pittsburg earlier this year to witness their work in materials research needed to maintain domestic control of the thermal battery supply chain.

Thanks to CEO Steve Westfall and Vice President Ron Nowlin for meeting with me, and I look forward to seeing all that Eagle Picher will accomplish.

Kansas Hospital Association
On Tuesday, I met with members of the Kansas Hospital Association to hear updates on issues facing Kansas health care facilities, health care professionals and patients. We discussed my efforts to sustain rural hospitals in the state and our shared desire to protect the ability of rural Kansans to access care in their communities. Over the past few decades, rural hospitals and health care facilities have closed at an alarming rate, and I am determined to protect the federal programs that offer Kansas’ rural hospitals much-needed assistance to continue their services. I provided updates on legislation to make technical improvements to the Rural Emergency Hospital Designation and on the bipartisan Senate 340B Working Group in developing comprehensive reforms to the 340B Drug Pricing Program.

Thank you to Chad Austin, Bobbly Olm-Shipman, Carrie Lutz, George Stover, Landon Fulmer, Niki Buesing, Kiley Floyd, Dennis George, Molly Haase, Ashley Hutchinson, Nicole Milo, Dallas Polen, Cindy Samuelson, Courtney Schmelzle, Curt Sudbeck, Larry Van De Wege, Tim Van Zandt, Jake Vance and Kenny Wilk for meeting with me.

Jim Remar
This week, I had the opportunity to meet with Jim Remar, President and CEO of the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson. He shared that the Cosmosphere welcomed approximately 110,000 visitors from across the world last year. Mr. Remar also shared the new exhibits and renovation plans for the museum aided in part by NASA funding I helped secure. I am grateful to the Cosmosphere which helps inspire the next generation of workers within the aerospace realm. I look forward to continuing to support the “best space museum on planet Earth,” as recognized by NASA’s Artemis II crew.

Lawrence Chamber of Commerce
On Wednesday, I met with representatives from the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce to receive an update on developments within the city, Douglas County and surrounding areas. We discussed an array of issues, including Lawrence’s ongoing efforts to support the bi-state approach in preparation for the World Cup, the Lawrence Regional Airport and the push to expand the runway and continue investing in the airport, as well as several transportation initiatives Lawrence is considering. Thank you to Bonnie Lowe, Evie Lazzarino, Kristin Eldridge, Paul Davis, Brandon McGuire, and Karen Willey for making the trip to Washington, D.C. to visit with me on issues important to Lawrence and the Douglas County area.

Chancellor Doug Girod
This week, I met with University of Kansas Chancellor Doug Girod. During his visit, we discussed the great work happening at the university and how I can better support the school and its training of our next generation of leaders. We spoke about KU’s efforts to bolster their hydrogen research programs. I look forward to working with the University and the Department of Energy to ensure that KU becomes a leader in the hydrogen energy space.

Thank you to Chancellor Girod for meeting with me and for hosting KU’s annual reception in the U.S. Capitol.

Kansas Livestock Association
On Thursday, I met with the Kansas Livestock Association to discuss their priorities in the farm bill and the critical need for maintaining voluntary conservation programs and adequate funding. We also discussed the challenges with year-round labor, including in the dairy industry, which needs a legal and reliable workforce. Thank you, KLA President Philip Weltmer and your team, for visiting with me.

Capitol Tour
Sarah Ables of Olathe

Tamarah Ables of Lawrence

Elmer Abels of Topeka

David Suvak of Westwood

Kelly Jensen of Olathe

Eric Martinez of Lawrence

Kristy Franco of Wichita

Elizabeth Rutschman of Wichita

Eva Rutschman of Wichita

Joy Rutschman of Wichita

Kyle Rutschman of Wichita

Macquarie
Derek Hamilton of Olathe

America Orthotic and Prosthetic Association
Bill Brimblecom, Jr. of Lenexa

American Coalition for Ukraine
Danylo Lylo of Lawrence

Eagle Picher
Ron Nowlin of Pittsburg

Steve Westfall of Pittsburg

Rob Gitz of Pittsburg

Online Lenders Association
Gene Hermreck of Spring Hill

Eddie Khamphilay of Shawnee

Americans United for Separation of Church and State
Laurel Burchfield of Shawnee

Michael Poppa of Roeland Park

American Academy of Pediatrics
Denise Cyzman of Lawrence

Dena Hubbard of Lawrence

Kansas Cosmosphere
Jim Remar of Hutchinson

American Optometric Association
Stacy Clark of Salina

Jeremy Durham of Goddard

Todd Fleischer of Topeka

Steven Miller of Hutchinson

Jonathan Reddell of Leavenworth

Brandon Smith of Salina

Andy Stephens of Wichita

Harvard University
Luke Chen of Overland Park

American College of Surgeons
Tyler Hughes of McPherson

Land O’Lakes
Stan Stark of Pratt

Ross Plumberg of Seneca

American Physical Therapy Association
Chris Deck of Wichita

Jennifer Caswell of Overland Park

Marsha Lawrence of Stilwell

National Beer Wholesalers Association
Matt Michener of Hutchinson

Ann Bush of Hutchinson

Rick Albrecht of Wichita

American College of Emergency Physicians
Trevor Mattox of Wichita

John McMaster of Wichita

College of American Pathologists
Jessica Kozel of Leawood

University of Kansas Chancellor
Doug Girod of Lawrence

Kansas Radiological Society
Mary Mitchell of Leawood

Leading Age
Rachel Monger of Topeka

Kylee Childs of Topeka

The Chamber of Lawrence Kansas
Kristen Eldridge of Lawrence

Bonnie Lowe of Lawrence

Paul Davis of Lawrence

Karen Willy of Lawrence

MOAA Jayhawk Chapter
Mike Kelly of Lawrence

Joel Feder of Leawood

BioKansas
Kevin Mills of Kansas City

Janae Bell of Shawnee

Dennis Ridenour of Kansas City

Chad Grittman of Kansas City

Melissa Roberts Chapman of Kansas City

Kansas Land Trust
Kaitlin Stanley of Overland Park

Kansas State University
Rachel Johnson of Manhattan

Roselle Barretto of Manhattan

National Association of Mortgage Brokers
A.W. Pickel III of Olathe

Kansas Emergency Nurses Association
Elizabeth Gerhardt of Holton

Julie Miller of Manhattan

Association for Clinical Oncology
Ronald Chen of Overland Park

Lauren Nye of Leawood

National Association of Therapeutic Schools
Moniqueka Holloway of Wichita

National Community Pharmacists Association
Dared Price of Winfield

Nathan Wiehl Garnett

Barbara Shaffer of Caldwell

Linn Shaffer of Caldwell

Matthew Hayden of Topeka

Jessica Satterfield of Overland Park

Tyler Woods Kansas City

Brain Caswall of Baxter Springs

U.S. Hemp Roundtable
Vince Sanders of Mission

Association of Zoos and Aquariums
Fred Patton of Topeka

Home Care Association of America
JD Hagedorn of Wichita

Federation of Exchange Accommodators
Carmine DiFuloio of Wichita

Pittsburg State University
Ed McKechnie

American College of Gastroenterology
Mojtaba Olayee of Leawood

American Osteopathic Association
Shahroz Khan of Wichita

Frank Kutilek of Wichita

Alexandra Palacios of Wichita

Ilham Shoja of Wichita

Avi Patal of Wichita

Shamirah Johnson of Shawnee

Christina Baum of Wichita

Loretta Liu of Wichita

Kansas Livestock Association
Daniel Mushrush of Strong City

Jessica Weltmer of Smith Center

Philip Weltmer of Smith Center

Cole Sjeklocha Silver Lake

Ole Johnson of Sharon Springs

Aaron Popelka of Maple Hill

American Academy of Ophthalmology
Mary Champion of Prairie Village

William Clifford of Garden City

Matt Pfannenstiel of Lawrence

Gary Weiner of Salina

EMS on the Hill
Kevin Joles of Lawrence

Con Olson of Osage City

Dave Johnston of Hutchinson

David Adams of Manhattan

Craig Isom of Winfield

Kansas Common Sense

Border Battle Continues

Apr 22 2024

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