Kansas Common Sense

Remembering President Jimmy Carter
This week, I paid my respects to former President Jimmy Carter as he lay in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. President Carter lived a life of service to his nation as a member of the U.S. Navy, the Governor of Georgia and the President of the United States. We mourn the loss of a leader and champion of human rights. Robba and I offer our continued prayers and condolences to the Carter family. 

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On Wednesday evening, I was able to take this photo after I paid my respects in the rotunda.

Meeting with President Trump's Cabinet Nominees
Brooke Rollins
On Wednesday, I met with Brooke Rollins, President Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Agriculture. Agriculture is the largest industry in Kansas, and we discussed the importance of strengthening agricultural policies that prioritize the needs of our farmers and ranchers and provide aid when natural disasters strike. We also discussed the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, the importance of passing a strong five-year Farm Bill, increasing renewables fuel production and the challenges our farmers and ranchers are facing. As a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, I look forward to her testimony before the committee.

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Lee Zeldin
On Thursday, I met with former Congressman Lee Zeldin, President Trump’s nominee to be Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. During our conversation, Rep. Zeldin stated his support for creating long-lasting, durable regulations that will unleash American energy sources while preserving a safe and clean environment. We also discussed the importance of critical programs for Kansas communities, including keeping the Renewable Fuel Standard in place and funding the State Revolving Fund for water infrastructure. Under the Biden administration, the EPA has pursued one-size-fits-all rulemakings that work better for California and New York than Kansas. I look forward to Rep. Zeldin’s confirmation hearing.

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Pete Hegseth
On Thursday, I also met with President Trump's nominee for Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth. We had a productive discussion regarding the need to fix the military recruitment crisis, how to rebuild our industrial base and the importance of utilizing Kansas as a major defense manufacturer. We also discussed our work together on the VA MISSION Act and the need to improve the transition from military service to the VA. I look forward to his testimony before the Senate Committee on Armed Services.

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Introducing Legislation to Stop Plea Deal for 9/11 Terrorist
This week, I reintroduced the Justice for 9/11 Act with Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.). This bill would prevent any plea deals from being agreed to that would preclude a trial, requires that terrorists are kept at Guantanamo Bay in solitary confinement and prohibits them from being extradited to another country. My colleagues and I are deeply concerned that a military judge would allow these plea agreements to proceed with no trial. These terrorists must stand trial and face justice for their horrific crimes. It is just as alarming that 11 dangerous Yemeni detainees are set to be released from Guantanamo Bay to Oman by the Biden administration as a part of their promise to wind down operations. This legislation is necessary to help prevent further threats to our nation.

Reforming Haskell University
On Thursday, I spoke on the Senate Floor to emphasize the pressing need for reform at Haskell Indian Nations University following serious wrongdoings by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Indian Education. As the sole Tribal Nations University in the country, Haskell University once provided Native American students the opportunity to receive a high-quality education in an environment that understood and prioritized indigenous heritage and culture. However, for the last few years, the university has been neglected and mismanaged by the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE). The bureau has failed to protect students, respond to my congressional inquiries or meet the basic infrastructure needs of the school. To address these concerns, I circulated draft legislation in December to provide a federal charter for Haskell. This legislation would remove Haskell from the purview of the BIE and give control of the university back to the Native American community, while continuing to provide federal support.

I am seeking feedback from the Native American, Lawrence and higher education communities on the proposed legislation to ensure the bill effectively addresses key issues at Haskell University. Please submit feedback to feedback@moran.senate.gov no later than February 1, 2025.

Text for the draft legislation can be found here. You can watch my floor speech here.

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Remembering Olen Mitchell
This week, I spoke on the Senate Floor to honor and remember the life of World War II veteran, Olen Mitchell. Olen served his country bravely during WWII, receiving a Purple Heart after he was shot just two weeks before D-Day in 1944. After recovering, he continued his service in the Military Police. Olen received the Bronze Star, the Combat Infantryman Badge and several other medals and service ribbons for his bravery. In June of last year, I had the opportunity to call Olen on the 80th anniversary of D-Day while he was visiting Normandy and the beaches of France. It was my honor to thank him for his service during World War II and to let him know how much of a privilege it was to know him and his story. The Greatest Generation has left a permanent impact on the world, and that is why the loss of another World War II veteran is cause for mourning in this nation and around the globe.

Olen, 103, died peacefully on December 24, 2024, at Hester Care Center, Hutchinson. He was a loving husband of 68 years. Olen was also an uncle, a great uncle, and a great-great uncle. Thank you for your life of service, your friendship and for being such a great member of a wonderful family.

See the full speech here.

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Recognizing National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day
Thursday marked National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. Thank you to the men and women who wear the uniform to protect our communities and put their life on the line to keep us and our loved ones safe. Thank you also to the nearly 25% of law enforcement members who have a military background. We appreciate your continued service to our country.

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Remembering John Peterson
This week, John C. Peterson, a former state lawmaker who founded one of the oldest contract lobbying firms in Kansas, passed away. John was a former member of the Kansas House of Representatives, and later went on to establish Capitol Strategies. He was instrumental in leading efforts for transportation programs and played a major role in many issues across the state. Robba and I are praying for his wife, Michelle, and their close friends and family during this time.

Congratulating National Educator Award Recipient Meredith Reid
This week, Girard High School music teacher Meredith Reid received the Milken Educator Award for her leadership in the school and community. Meredith attended Girard High School as a student when there was no choral program and returned to teach music there years later. The choral program has grown and now competes in regional and state music events, where the group and soloists receive top rankings.

Congratulations, Meredith, on receiving this award, and thank you for all you do for the Girard community. You can read more about Meredith and the award here.

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Capitol Tours

Christine Beck of Topeka

Terry Beck of Topeka

Daniel Halbleib, Jr. of Wichita

Adilae Hollister of Olathe

Hyacinthe Howen of Wichita

Ella Irwin of Olathe

Ivan Macias of Scott City

Jessica Methman of Wichita

Alexander Pickett of Wichita

Sergio Salinas of Wichita

Jacob Smith of Wichita

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