Introducing Major Veterans Legislation: Take Care of America’s Veterans Act
This week, I introduced the Take Care of Americas Veterans Act with Rep. Mike Bost (R-Ill.), chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. This comprehensive legislation would deliver long-awaited improvements to the health care, benefits and services relied on by millions of veterans, servicemembers, survivors, caregivers and military family members. The package includes numerous bipartisan, bicameral bills to support veterans, including the Major Richard Star Act, the Veterans’ ACCESS Act and the Love Lives On Act.

The Major Richard Star Act was first introduced in 2020 but has failed to pass under both Democratic and Republican majorities in the House and Senate because there has not been a way to pay for it. After another failed unanimous consent attempt to pass the legislation last week, I went to the Senate floor to discuss my commitment to passing this legislation this year and to announce that Chairman Bost and I have found a viable path forward that addresses the policy and cost concerns that have prevented this bill from passing the House or Senate despite widespread, bipartisan support.

The Take Care of America’s Veterans Act delivers real solutions for bipartisan priorities that veterans, servicemembers, survivors and their families have been waiting on for far too long. The legislation is supported by Major Richard Star’s surviving brother, David Star, and I am grateful to him for his advocacy on behalf of America’s veterans. I thank Chairman Bost for his partnership and encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to work with me to pass this legislation and provide veterans the benefits and care they deserve.

The legislation is also endorsed by Tragedy Assistance Programs for Survivors (TAPS), AMVETS, Gold Star Spouses of America, Elizabeth Dole Foundation, Fisher House Foundation, Jewish Federations of North America, Concerned Veterans for America and the Vietnam Veterans of America.

You can learn more about the Take Care of America’s Veterans Act here and can watch my floor speech here.


Good News: New VA Outpatient Clinic Coming to Junction City
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recently announced it has signed a lease to open a new 40,000-square-foot VA Outpatient Clinic in Junction City, which is expected to serve 165,000 veterans. Once completed, the facility will be the largest Outpatient Clinic in the VA Eastern Kansas Health System. Veterans in rural communities should not be forced to travel long distances from home to access the care and services they need. This new state-of-the-art facility will expand primary and specialty care, mental health resources and supporting services for rural veterans. This is a significant investment in the well-being of rural veterans, and I look forward to the difference this facility will make for Kansas veterans, their families and the surrounding communities.

Monitoring Kansas Communities Affected by Severe Weather
On Wednesday night, a confirmed tornado touched down southwest of Woodbine. Thankfully, no lives were lost, and no injuries have been reported. Jaryth Barton, a member of my staff and a Woodbine-native, arrived in Woodbine the next morning and surveyed damage alongside Mayor Mary Sue Roller and spoke with Assistant Fire Chief Casey Riedy and Brian Shippy who oversees public works in Woodbine. Thank you to Mayor Roller, Chief Riedy, Mr. Shippy and city council members Grag Acheson, Stephanie Fewin, Jennifer Davis and Richard Hagerman for their service and support in the community.

Local businesses, community groups and surrounding communities have already shown up in full force with volunteers and equipment to support cleanup, including KVK Inc., Agri Trails Co-op, K&R Propane, the City of White City, residents of Hope, Herington and Abilene and the local Lions Club, which has a trailer with free clean up supplies still parked downtown. Thank you to the many volunteers and first responders across our state that are continuing to aid their fellow Kansans. I continue to be in contact with local leaders on the recovery efforts.


Confirming Kansas Federal Judges Tony Mattivi & Anthony Powell
This week, the Senate voted to confirm the Honorable Anthony Powell and Tony Mattivi to serve as United States District Judges for the District of Kansas. I have often said that one of the most important responsibilities given to the U.S. Senate is that of providing advice and consent on judicial nominations, and I was pleased to vote in favor of confirming both these nominees to the federal bench in Kansas. Prior to their confirmations, I spoke on the Senate floor to urge my colleagues to join me in supporting their nominations.

Over many years, I have had the opportunity to get to know Mr. Mattivi well, and I have seen firsthand his dedication to public service, to our justice system and to our country. During law school orientation, he met his wife, Mary, who now serves as a Shawnee County District Judge, a state judge, and they have three children. Mr. Mattivi has provided strong leadership as Director of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, and I know his experience in the courtroom and in law enforcement will aid him well on the federal bench.

Judge Powell most recently served as the Kansas Solicitor General, and I appreciate his commitment to public service, devotion to our Constitution and respect for the people of Kansas. Judge Powell and his wife, Betty, have four children, and I am grateful to the entire family for their dedication to this service.

Congratulations to Judge Powell and Mr. Mattivi on their confirmations. I was pleased to support their nominations during the White House’s selection process, and I am confident they will serve Kansans well in their new roles.

You can watch my full remarks on the Senate floor in support of Mr. Mattivi here and Judge Powell here.


Honoring 30th Anniversary of Sen. Dole’s Retirement from the U.S. Senate
I spoke on the Senate floor on Wednesday to recognize a date that is significant to the history of the U.S. Senate and to Kansas. Thirty years ago, on June 11, 1996, Sen. Bob Dole gave his farewell speech on the floor of the Senate, leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication and compassion. He cared deeply about representing the people of Kansas, and he had a profound respect for the institution of the Senate. He left his country, nation and state in better shape than when he arrived, and he always knew that brighter days were yet to come.

This week, we honor Sen. Dole’s legacy that shows the difference one person can make – regardless of their background, birthplace or education. Kansans and Americans hold him in the highest regard – and he lived a life worthy of that respect.

You can watch my full remarks on the Senate floor here.


Questioning USDA Secretary Rollins on Kansas Agriculture Priorities
This week, I questioned U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins about priorities for Kansas agriculture during her appearance before the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry. I highlighted the recent announcement that 400,000 bushels of grain sorghum were loaded at a grain elevator in Hugoton to be used in Food for Peace – one of the first shipments of grain since the program restarted under USDA’s management. Thank you to The Andersons, Inc. and Skyland Grain, which own and operate the grain elevator, as well as National Sorghum Producers board members Amy France and Jim Sipes who were on site for the loading and shipping of the grain. The partnership of farmers and agricultural businesses has helped Food for Peace continue its successful mission of feeding the hungry around the globe.

During the hearing, I also discussed USDA’s ability to respond to pests and diseases that threaten the livestock industry. As Secretary Rollins is dedicating resources to keeping New World screwworm from spreading in the U.S., I emphasized the need for USDA to continue monitoring for and treating existing threats, such as the spread of the Asian longhorned tick, and the important role the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) can play in understanding and responding to threats to livestock health. Finally, I highlighted the importance of allowing haying and grazing on Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) land. The CRP Flexibility and Improvement Act, which I introduced with Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.), would provide that flexibility, and I am working to include these provisions in the Farm Bill. Being able to better manage CRP lands would allow Kansas ranchers opportunities to mitigate wildfire risk. I appreciate Secretary Rollins’ commitment to agriculture and her willingness to work collaboratively with Congress to respond to the needs of the agricultural industry.

You can watch my questioning of Secretary Rollins here.


NASA Announces Astronauts for Artemis III Mission
On Tuesday, the journey back to the Moon continued with NASA’s announcement of the Artemis III Crew: Commander Randy Bresnik, Pilot Luca Parmitano, Mission Specialist Andre Douglas and Mission Specialist Frank Rubio.

The next phase of NASA’s Artemis project is set to launch in late 2027, and it aims to test docking capabilities in low-Earth orbit to prepare for a future lunar landing. This mission represents a critical step toward returning Americans to the Moon.

As Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds NASA, I am grateful for the dedication and bravery of the Artemis III astronauts as they build on the progress of the crew of Artemis II in furthering this new era of exploration. I look forward to inviting them all to Kansas for a tour of the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson.


Meeting with Kansans
Topeka Partnership
On Tuesday, I met with members of the Topeka Partnership to discuss priorities for the community, including efforts to support the Kansas Air National Guard. We also discussed infrastructure and transportation issues, and how I can support these capabilities on the federal level.

Thank you to Molly Howey, Sean Dixon, Bob Ross, Rhiannon Friedman, Joe Caldwell, Natalie Haag, John Federico, Kevin Holland, David Kesinger, Amanda Chavez Thompson, Robert Perez, Kevin Cook, Curtis Sneden, Eric Johnson, John Koop, Nick Xidis, Rich Ecker and Chad Gerhardt for taking the time to meet with me.


Textron Aviation
This week, I met with Textron Aviation President & CEO Ron Draper to discuss their priorities and hear updates on their manufacturing presence and workforce in Wichita. We discussed how the aviation manufacturing workforce is bolstering the Wichita community, as well as the importance of continued partnerships with Beechcraft and Cessna Aircraft. Thank you to Ron Draper for meeting with me and for supporting Textron’s continued investment in Wichita, the Air Capital of the World.

Kansas Home Building Groups
On Wednesday, I met with members of the Kansas Building Industry Association and the Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City to discuss the urgent need to reduce barriers to homeownership as prices continue to rise and housing supply remains stagnant. We discussed the importance of advancing the comprehensive, bipartisan housing legislation, the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act. This package includes the Streamlining Rural Housing Act, legislation I introduced to support rural housing development by simplifying the regulatory process for builders. It also includes two bills I cosponsored to expand housing access in rural communities and cut unnecessary bureaucracy within federal housing programs. I remain committed to working with my colleagues to pass this historic housing package to help address the need for affordable housing in Kansas and across the country.



We also discussed the importance of supporting access to affordable, reliable and diverse energy sources. I have long supported an all-of-the-above energy approach to make certain Americans have the most affordable and efficient energy options available. Finally, we emphasized the importance of strengthening the workforce through expanded career and technical education programs in high schools, as well as increased access to trade school pathways. While developing a strong domestic workforce is a top priority, maintaining access to the H-2B program is also essential to making certain the construction industry has the labor needed to meet demand.

Thank you to Tyler York, Derek Claassen, Tanner Cole, Owen Shigley, Tim Shigley, Tom Baalmann, Keely Carney, Sean Miller and Carl Harris of the Kansas Building Industry Association; and to Mark Hoffman, Cole Griggs and Will Ruder of Home Builders Associations of Greater Kansas City for meeting with me and for their continued work to support homeownership and economic growth across Kansas.



Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation
I met with Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Chairman Zeke Rupnick and Haskell Board of Regents Counsel Rob Porter this week to discuss the future of Haskell Indian Nations University. Haskell is a nationally recognized institution with a unique mission of serving Native American students from Tribal Nations across the country. We discussed the challenges facing the university, including leadership stability, governance and the need to make certain Haskell has the resources and support necessary to thrive for generations to come.

Last year, I introduced legislation to establish an independent Board of Regents for Haskell, nominated by Tribal leaders, while maintaining the federal government's longstanding commitment to supporting the university. Since introducing the bill, I have continued working with Tribal leaders, the Haskell Board of Regents, students, faculty, staff, alumni and the Lawrence community to strengthen the proposal and help position Haskell for a more stable and successful future.

I appreciated hearing Chairman Rupnick's and Mr. Porter's perspectives on how we can strengthen Haskell while preserving its character and connections to Tribal communities. As these conversations continue, I remain committed to working with the Haskell community and the Department of the Interior to support the university and its long-term success.


Kansas Health Care Association & Kansas Center for Assisted Living
On Tuesday, I met with representatives from the Kansas Health Care Association and Kansas Center for Assisted Living, which represent providers across the full spectrum of senior care in Kansas. It is important that seniors have access to quality care and support in the setting that best meets their needs. During our meeting, we discussed workforce needs in long-term care facilities, access to services and ways to reduce barriers that can delay care for patients and families. We also discussed my support for the Improving Seniors' Timely Access to Care Act, bipartisan legislation to streamline prior authorization requirements under Medicare Advantage and help seniors receive care more quickly. During last year’s reconciliation process, I worked to protect policies important to Kansas providers, including preserving the state's nursing home provider tax.

I appreciate hearing directly from those caring for Kansas seniors. Thank you to Staci Cardenas, Polly Berkley, Kevin Crowley, Corwin Lewis, Lori Owens and Linda MowBray for meeting with me and for their commitment to serving Kansans.


Meeting with Japanese Ambassador Shigeo Yamada
On Wednesday, I met with Japanese Ambassador Shigeo Yamada to discuss the ongoing alliance between the U.S. and Japan. In October 2024, I visited Japan as part of a congressional delegation I led with Senator Hoeven (R-N.D.) where I met with leaders from Panasonic and Kubota, two companies that have made significant investments in Kansas. Ambassador Yamada and I discussed opportunities for the U.S. and Japan to continue partnering in critical Kansas industries like advanced manufacturing and space exploration. Thank you to Ambassador Yamada for his time and conversation.


Bread for the World
On Wednesday, I met with Kansas members of Bread for the World to discuss domestic and international feeding and nutrition programs. We spoke about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the current discussions regarding the passage of the Farm Bill, as well as other nutrition programs like the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). We also discussed the importance of global food initiatives, including the Dole-McGovern International Food for Education and Child Nutrition program and Food for Peace, both of which play a vital role in addressing hunger and supporting vulnerable communities around the world.

As co-chair of the Senate Hunger Caucus, I remain committed to raising awareness, strengthening bipartisan cooperation and advancing meaningful solutions to hunger both at home and globally. Thank you to Dr. Greg Hunt of Central Seminary, Kansas State University Student Yalena Sanchez, Coordinator for Student Basic Needs at Johnson County Community College Robert Miller and Executive Director of First Thousand Members Club Martine Chery-Hilaire for the discussion.


Visiting Salina Smoky Hill River Festival
On Saturday, I visited Salina to attend the 50th annual Smoky Hill River Festival and speak to residents about the recent severe weather that impacted Salina and communities across north central Kansas, leaving many without power for several days. I met with local leaders and community members to learn more about the recovery effort and how I could be of assistance.

During my visit, I also met with Brigid Hall, Director of the First Treasures: Art for Young Collectors program. The First Treasures program allows children between the ages of 4 and 13 to purchase artwork donated or consigned by Smoky Hill River Festival exhibiting artists for $5 or less. Thank you to Brigid Hall for your dedication to giving back to our state’s next generation, and to all those who took the time to meet with me.


Celebrating 251 Years of the U.S. Army
Sunday marked 251 years since the Second Continental Congress authorized the creation of the United States Army. Thank you to the soldiers serving in Kansas at Fort Leavenworth and Fort Riley, those serving across the country and overseas and to the generations of men and women who came before them for their selfless dedication to answering the call to defend and protect our nation.


Recognizing National Dairy Month
Kansas is one of the fastest-growing dairy states in the nation, producing nearly 5 billion pounds of milk in 2025. Happy National Dairy Month to the dedicated dairy farmers in Kansas who help feed our country and the world.


Honoring Flag Day
On Flag Day, we celebrate the rich history behind the American flag – our nation’s enduring symbol of freedom and we honor those throughout history who have sacrificed their lives to defend the values and freedoms it represents.


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. 

Kansans in the Office  

Capitol Tour

Shane Austin of Stockton

Will Barkley of Hutchinson

Bailey Brewer of Hutchinson

Ashley and Carter Busenitz of Benton 

Bailey Cameron of Williamsburg

Cooper, Elllie, Emma, Erin, Scott and Taylor DeNeve of Olathe

Pollyann Frank of Nickerson

Bethany Jenkins of Sterling

Taylor Miller of Overland Park

Royce Powelson of Richmond

Lydia Sill of Wichita

Chris and Julia Smith of Leawood

Ellery Stapleton of Nickerson

Isaac and Vincent Thayer of Stockton

Michelle Towery of Osborne

Eli, Emery, Gavin, Lillie, Marcus and Stella Weiser of Onaga

American Coalition for Public Radio

Fred Fletcher-Fierro of Pittsburg

American Composites Manufactures Association

Joseph Heil of Wichita

Michael Rambo of Wichita

American Nephrology Nurses Association

Molly Cahill of Overland Park

Americas Blood Centers

Valentina Diaz of Topeka

Bread for the World

Greg Hunt of Olathe

Ericka Debrick Kelly of Paola

Robbie Miller of Overland Park

Yalena Sanchez of Manhattan

Congressional Award Gold Medalists Class of 2026

Jaya Bhoot of Overland Park

Sonal Bhoot of Overland Park

Veeral Bhoot of Overland Park

Mira Gupta of Leawood

Wendy Hulsing of Leawood

Aditya Rastogi of Overland Park

Aditi Rastogi of Overland Park

Meenal Rastogi of Overland Park

Emergency Department Practice Management Association

Katie Bennett of Overland Park 

Global Business Travel Association

Nathan Bieck of Overland Park

Karen Bond of Shawnee

Michelle Walker of Gardner

Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City

Cole Griggs of Overland Park

Mark Hoffman of Overland Park

Will Ruder of Overland Park

Sarah St. Peter of Basehor

International Fresh Produce Association

Stephanie Becker of Kansas City

Kansas Building Industry Association

Tom Baalmann of Wichita

Keely Carney of Topeka

Derek Claassen of Wichita

Carl Harris of Newton

Sean Miller of Topeka

Owen Shigley of Wichita

Tim Shigley of Wichita

Tyler York of Wichita

Kansas Forest Service

Jason Hartman of Manhattan

Kansas Health Care Association and Kansas Center for Assisted Living

Polly Berkley of Overbrook

Staci Cardenas of Washington

Kevin Crowley of Andover

Corwin Lewis of Overland Park

Linda MowBray of Tecumseh

Lori Owens of Emporia

Landis+Gyr

Marguerite Behringer of Lenexa

National Student Leadership Congress

Dennyse Becerra of Kansas City

Annalynn Cornejo of Wichita
Alexander Lopez-Gonzalez of Topeka
Owen Meyer of Wichita

Adriana Rodriguez of Kansas City

Arturo Zamorano of Wichita

Sepsis Alliance

Steven Simpson of Fairway

Textron Aviation

Ron Draper of Wichita

Topeka Partnership

Joe Caldwell of Topeka

Kevin Cook of Topeka

Sean Dixon of Topeka

Rich Eckert of Topeka

John Federico of Topeka

Rhiannon Friedman of Topeka

Chad Gerhardt of Topeka

Natalie Haag of Topeka

Kevin Holland of Topeka

Molly Howey of Topeka

Eric Johnson of Topeka

David Kesinger of Topeka

John Koop of Topeka

Robert Perez of Topeka

Bob Ross of Topeka

Curtis Sneden of Topeka

Amanda Thompson of Topeka

Nick Xidis of Topeka

United Methodist Fund

Jackie Biggs of Lawrence

David Jordan of Lawrence

Ronda Kingwood of Wichita

Jessica Lucas of Lawrence

Katie Schoenhoff of Hutchinson