Securing Kansas Agriculture Wins in the Farm Bill
This week, the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry passed the Farm Bill, securing a number of important wins for the agriculture community in Kansas and across the nation. I was pleased to support this important legislation, and its passage out of committee is a critical step to producing a Farm Bill that gives our farmers and ranchers the certainty they rely on. When farmers and ranchers are successful, rural America is successful.

Kansas priorities in the Senate Farm Bill include:

• Year-round E-15 sales – I have long supported the year-round sale of E-15, which will help grow markets for producers and lower prices at the pump for Kansans and Americans.

• Bolstering the Conservation Reserve Program – The Senate Farm Bill includes my legislation, the Conservation Reserve Program Improvement and Flexibility Act, which would help increase flexibility for livestock grazing on conservation land.

• Increasing Farm Service Agency (FSA) loan limits – This provision better reflects lending conditions in farm country and modernizes loan limits to support the needs of farmers and ranchers.

• Doubling funding for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) trade promotion programs – These programs strengthen the ability of U.S. producers to market their products globally.

• Food for Peace permanently transferred to USDA – I led an amendment that was approved during the Farm Bill markup, securing the inclusion of my legislation to permanently transfer administration of the Food for Peace program to USDA.

• Rural Hospital Revitalization Act – I introduced this legislation to help strengthen rural hospitals by providing temporary zero percent interest loans for the construction or renovation of qualifying rural healthcare facilities.

• Farm to Fly Act – My legislation would accelerate the production and development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) through existing USDA programs to allow further growth for alternative fuels to be used in the aviation sector and create new markets for American farmers.

• Expanding career opportunities in agriculture for veterans – I introduced the Colonel Gary LaGrange AgVets Act, which would establish a USDA program to provide veterans with resources and opportunities to pursue careers in the agricultural industry.

As the Farm Bill moves to the full Senate for consideration, I remain committed to working with my colleagues to get the legislation passed and to the President’s desk to provide the certainty rural America needs. You can learn more here.


Passed Committee: Airport Surface Safety Legislation 
This week, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation advanced the Runway SAFE-T Act out of committee. I introduced this legislation with Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) to strengthen safety at airports across the country. As chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space and Innovation, I am committed to supporting efforts to bolster aviation safety across our nation. I appreciate the bipartisan support of my colleagues in advancing this critical legislation.

The Runway SAFE-T Act would bring together aviation, airport and safety experts to identify best practices for training airport vehicle operators, as well as help airports deploy technology to improve situational awareness and reduce runway incursions.

Close calls on our runways are warning signs, and we must act before they become tragedies. I am pleased to see this legislation move forward and will continue working with my colleagues to advance these commonsense safety improvements and protect passengers, airport workers and the traveling public. You can learn more here.


More Than $16 Million Secured for Kansas Rural Health Providers
On Monday, I announced more than $16 million in investments for 16 rural health providers across our state from the latest round of funding from the federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP). I helped establish this program in last year’s reconciliation legislation, and Kansas was selected to receive $222 million – the sixth highest amount awarded in the nation – for the first year of the program.

RHTP aims to identify and take steps to address the root causes of challenges faced by rural healthcare providers. The latest round of funding announced this week will support investments in interfacility transport improvements and implementing emerging health care technologies. These investments will also help Kansas health providers adopt innovative technologies, improve access to transportation for critical health care and connect rural residents to specialty and behavioral health care more quickly. I will continue working with rural Kansas health providers and state leaders to advance innovative solutions that strengthen rural communities across Kansas.

This round of funding was awarded to: CommonSpirit Kansas; University of Kansas Health Systems – Great Bend; Rooks County Health Center; GoodLife Innovations; Via Christi Village Hays; Genesis Family Health; Sumner Mental Health Center; Prairie View Inc.; NMC Health; Attica Hospital District #1; Grisell Memorial Hospital; Meade Hospital District; Rice County Hospital District #1; Valley Hope Association; Pulse Transport, LLC in Pratt County; and Labette County Medical Center.

You can learn more about these investments for Kansas rural health providers here and here.


Now Open: K-State’s Western Star Global Grain & Food Center 
On Friday, I participated in the ribbon cutting of Kansas State University’s Western Star Global Grain and Food Center. This brand-new facility, named in honor of J.J. Vanier, will play a critical role in supporting agricultural research, innovation, education and the future of our nation’s food and agriculture industries. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, I worked to secure more than $5 million for the center to bolster the efforts of K-State to train the next generation of agriculture and food industry leaders.

Thank you to K-State President Richard Linton, College of Agriculture Dean Dan Moser and former College of Agriculture Dean Ernie Minton for their leadership and partnership in making this new facility a reality. Investments like this strengthen our state’s ability to advance research and prepare the next generation of agricultural leaders. I am grateful to everyone who helped bring this vision to life and look forward to seeing the impact the Western Star Global Grain and Food Center will have for years to come.


Announcing $1 Million Investment for Wichita Eisenhower National Airport
I’m pleased to announce that Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) will receive a $1 million investment through the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Small Community Air Service Development Program (SCASDP). I advocated for Wichita to receive this funding, which will expand access to reliable, efficient air service to a new major hub, strengthening Wichita’s connections to key economic centers. This service will benefit travelers and create new opportunities for Kansas businesses, educational institutions and communities. I look forward to continuing to work with the Wichita Airport Authority and local leaders to strengthen access to key transportation for Kansans. You can learn more here. 


Investiture Ceremony of U.S. District Judge Tony Mattivi
On Friday, I participated in the investiture ceremony of Tony Mattivi as a Judge for the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas. During my conversations with Judge Mattivi throughout the vigorous selection process to fill vacancies in Kansas’ U.S. District Courts, he impressed me with his qualifications, experience, commitment to the pursuit of justice and desire to serve others. For these reasons, I was pleased to urge the White House to nominate him for the federal bench and to introduce him during his hearing before the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee earlier this year.

A graduate of Washburn School of Law, Judge Mattivi served as a federal prosecutor for more than 20 years, handling complex cases on behalf of the Department of Justice involving drug trafficking, violent crime and terrorism. Following his time in federal service, he was confirmed by the Kansas State Senate to be the Director of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. Over the years I have known Judge Mattivi, I have witnessed firsthand his dedication to public service. He cares deeply about Kansas, and I am confident that he will perform the duties of this role well. Congratulations to Judge Mattivi and his family, and I thank him for his willingness to serve the people of Kansas.


Discussing Ag Priorities with Kansas Groups
Kansas Farmers Union
On Tuesday, I met with members of the Kansas Farmers Union who traveled to Washington, D.C., to share their priorities ahead of the Senate Farm Bill markup that occurred this week. We discussed the importance of a robust farm safety net and the value of nutrition programs in Kansas. A new Farm Bill is critical to strengthen our rural communities and provide meaningful risk management resources to Kansas farmers, ranchers and producers. The feedback of groups like the Kansas Farmers Union is valuable as we work to produce a final bill that delivers for Kansas farmers, ranchers and rural communities. Thank you to Jeff Kindel, Mandy and Preston Trout, Rob Fisher, Kara Walker, Claire Geiger, Scott Kohl, Matthew Fowler and Nick Levendofsky for meeting with me.


Leadership KFB
This week, I met with this year’s Kansas Farm Bureau's Leadership KFB Class XII. The program was created with the purpose of developing their members as grassroots advocates and leaders. Their year-long program focuses on training leaders who choose to engage in and look for solutions to problems across agriculture and rural communities. I appreciated our discussion on how we can strengthen our rural communities and the importance of active engagement in their communities and with all levels of government. Thank you to Andrea DeJesus of Manhattan, Caleb Barger of Hoyt, Stacy Wurtz of Randolph, Hallie Means of Tribune, Kali Kootz of Ellsworth and Savannah Nichols of Minneapolis for their dedication to preserving our rural way of life. I wish them the best as they complete their time in the program.


Growth Energy
On Wednesday, I met with members of Growth Energy to discuss the Farm Bill and our shared efforts to secure year-round E15. Increased opportunity for biofuels production will provide consumers with more options at the pump and lower fuel prices for Americans. I am pleased year-round E-15 was secured in the Senate Farm Bill which passed out of committee this week, and I will continue to champion efforts that provide additional markets for our farmers and grow our domestic fuel production. Thank you to Andy Bulloch, Trevor Hinz, Dave Kerr, Steve Seabrook, Kevin Hershner, Taylor Williamson and all those who met with me.


Meeting with Kansans
American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network 
On Tuesday, I met with representatives from the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) to discuss funding for cancer research and efforts to expand access to clinical trials. We also spoke about the important work being done at the University of Kansas Cancer Center. Last year, members of ACS CAN joined me and National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Bhattacharya during a visit to the construction site of the new KU Cancer Center, and it was great to discuss the progress that is occurring there.

Through my work as a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I secured $115 million in resources to construct and equip the brand-new building for the KU Cancer Center, which will help solidify our state’s status on the cutting edge of cancer research and increase access to advanced clinical trials for Kansans. I will continue to prioritize robust funding for the NIH and the National Cancer Institute to support this important work.

Thank you to ACS CAN representatives Stephanie Barr of Solomon, Ronald Chen of Overland Park, Patrick Doran of Topeka, Tami Portela of Derby, Kristy Reynolds of Roeland Park and Anne Zajic of Topeka for meeting with me and for their commitment to finding a cure to cancer.


Kansas Bankers Association
This week, I met with members of the Kansas Bankers Association to discuss the critical role community banks play in supporting local economies and small towns across our state. During our meeting, we spoke about the importance of making certain Kansas banks can continue offering vital financial services by establishing proper guardrails on deposits. We also discussed the need to bring fairness and transparency to bank oversight, which is why I introduced the Fair Audits and Inspections for Regulators’ (FAIR) Exams Act. Our discussion also included the need to update outdated regulatory thresholds that currently constrain local lending to better support the rural Kansans who rely on these services. Thank you to KBA President and CEO Doug Wareham, KBA Chairman Kendal Kay, Vice Chairman John Dicus, Chairman-elect Kyle Campbell and Former Chairwoman Julie Hower and the rest of KBA’s members for taking the time to share their insights with me.


InterHab
On Tuesday, I visited with representatives from InterHab, an association that brings together advocates focused on supporting Kansans with disabilities. We spoke about the services provided by each of Interhab’s partners, and it was great to discuss the two recent awards InterHab has received through the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), which I worked with my colleagues to establish last year on the federal level.

These investments will support the efforts of InterHab to connect Kansans with disabilities with 24/7 telehealth consultation services and to train rural licensed clinicians in recognition and management of chronic conditions in patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Down Syndrome, I will continue working with InterHab to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Kansas and across the country.


Kansas Automobile Dealers Association
This week, I met with the Kansas Automobile Dealers Association (KADA) to discuss current developments impacting the vehicle industry in our state. During the meeting, we spoke about the importance of passing the Connect Vehicle Security Act, which I cosponsored to support our domestic auto markets. Thank you to KADA President Don McNeely of Topeka; Jeff Longbine, owner of Longbine Auto Plaza in Emporia; Robert Brogden, National Automobile Dealers Association’s Western Region Minority Director, Andy Hofman of GTG Peterbilt in Wichita; and Hannah Yeubanks, VP of Communications and External Affairs for KADA, for meeting with me.


Discussing Preparations for LA28 Olympics
I met with members of the LA 2028 Olympics Committee this week to discuss how communities across the U.S. are preparing to host the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Preparing for an event of this scale requires significant coordination and investment in infrastructure and security. To support these efforts, I introduced the Transportation Assistance for Olympic and World Cup Cities Act, which would provide federal funding for local communities to prepare for transportation demands and facilitate the successful movement of fans, works and goods during events such as the 2028 Summer Olympics and the 2034 Winter Olympics.

During the meeting, we also discussed the importance of making certain resources are released in a timely manner to strengthen public safety coordination among federal, state and local partnerships. Thank you to Casey Wasserman Chairman of LA28 and the rest of the committee for supporting efforts to welcome more than 200 countries to the U.S. for the 2028 Olympic games.  


Meeting with Capitol Tour Group
On Wednesday, I met with Fred and Lisa Dickman before their tour of the U.S. Capitol. It was great to visit with them and hear about their experience in our nation’s capital. Thank you to Fred and Lisa for taking the time to meet with me. If you are planning a visit to Washington, D.C., and would like a tour of the Capitol, please visit my website here for more information.


Congratulations to Next WFP Executive Director, Luke Lindberg
On Friday, Luke Lindberg was appointed to serve as the next Executive Director of the World Food Programme (WFP). Luke has a deep understanding of the important role American agriculture plays in fighting global hunger and has devoted his career to this important mission. I have had the opportunity work closely with him during his time serving as Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and he joined me in Kansas earlier this year to showcase the role Kansas plays in international food aid. I was pleased to advocate for him to lead WFP, and I look forward to working with him to continue our shared efforts to help feed a hungry world.


Rural Kansans Rely on Community Bank Services
On Tuesday, the U.S. Senate voted against advancing the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, legislation that would establish regulatory framework for digital commodities. I support the need to regulate digital assets and make sure protections are put in place to counter crypto scams. That is why I introduced the bipartisan Strengthening Agency Frameworks for Enforcement of Cryptocurrency (SAFE Crypto) Act, which would establish an inter-governmental task force between federal agencies and the private sector to coordinate identifying and combating cryptocurrency fraud.

Ultimately, I voted no on the Clarity Act after months of concerns I have heard from rural Kansans about the consequences this legislation would have for our rural communities. I will continue working with my colleagues to find a path forward that protects our communities and provides sensible policies that support responsible innovation while maintaining appropriate safeguards.

Visits Across Kansas
St. Luke’s South Hospital
This week, I visited St. Luke’s South Hospital in Overland Park. During my visit, I met with administrators and staff to discuss their continued work to provide quality care to their community. Thank you to VP of Operations Jeff Little, Chief Nursing Officer Julia Woods, Physician Medical Director Dr. Casey Martinez, Senior Marketing Strategist Lexi Glassman and Director of Government Relations Jake Vance for meeting with me and for their work to care for the local community.


Olathe Santa Fe Trail Rotary Club
On Thursday, I spoke with members of the Santa Fe Trail Rotary Club in Olathe. We discussed the important role of civic groups like the Rotary Club and how we can each work to invest in our local communities. We also spoke about the issues that are important to Olathe residents, including the need to support local infrastructure and economic development across our state. Thank you to the leadership and members of the Sante Fe Trail Rotary Club and Mid-American Nazarene College for hosting me.


Meeting with Topeka Business Leaders
On Friday, I met with a group of business and community leaders in Topeka to receive an update on the community's activities. We discussed a wide array of topics important to Topeka residents, including education, finance, agriculture, aviation and local and state government.

Thank you to Greater Topeka Partnership President Bob Ross for organizing the meeting and Washburn University President Dr. Juli Mazachek for hosting. Thank you also to Beth Easter of INTRUST Bank; Nick Xidis of Volant, Inc.; Walker Basset and Dalton Cowan of Gen III Construction and Development; Luke Livingston of The J.M. Smucker Co.; Calla Haggard of Community Bank; Neal Spencer of Ernest Spencer; Chad Gerhardt of Bettis Companies; Rhiannon Friedman and Sam Al-Murrani of GO Topeka; Natalie Haag and Sarah Sanders of Capitol Federal; Brian Armstrong of Bartlett & West; Shawnee County Commissioner Aaron Mays; Justin McFarland of Security Benefit; Molly Howey of the Greater Topeka Partnership; Tracy Blocker of Technical Applications & Consulting and Kevin Hahn of Ivaoes Animal Health for their time and conversation.


Happy Birthday to the U.S. Air Force!
Friday marked the 79th anniversary of the U.S. Air Force. Thank you to all Airmen throughout history for protecting our airspace, defending our freedom and serving our country. Aim High!


Constitution Day
This week, we celebrated 239 years since the Founding Fathers gathered at Independence Hall in Philadelphia and signed the Constitution – the most important document in our nation’s history. As we mark this significant anniversary, we honor the millions of Americans who have defended the rights and freedoms enshrined in the Constitution and recommit to protecting those principles for future generations.


POW/MIA Recognition Day
This week, we paused to commemorate POW/MIA Recognition Day. Every year, we honor and remember the brave servicemembers who have been prisoners of war and those who are still missing in action. Freedom is not free, and these courageous men and women are never forgotten.


National Aerospace Week
As the Air Capital of the world, Kansas is home to a talented aerospace workforce that contributes more than $36 billion in economic activity across our state. This week, we celebrated National Aerospace Week – a time to thank the manufacturers, suppliers and workers in Kansas who are driving innovation, protecting our national security and leading the way in the global aerospace industry.

In April, I hosted the NASA Administrator at D-J Engineering, a Wichita-area supplier that helped contribute to the Artemis II mission.


Yom Kippur
I hope all our Jewish friends in Kansas and around the world who recently observed Yom Kippur had a meaningful fast.


Now Accepting Spring 2027 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 spring 2027 are now open. Priority will be given to applications completed before Thursday, October 1. Applications will be accepted until Sunday, November 15 at 11:59PM CT. 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 Spring 2027 Senate Page Applications
Applications are now open for the spring 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. Spring 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, October 4 at 11:59PM CT. 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 October 2, 2026. After applications have been reviewed, applicants will be notified of interviews with my Service Academy Selection Board.

Kansans in the Office  

Capitol Tour 

Glen Amerine of Great Bend

Patricia Amerine of Great Bend

Randy Arnold of Topeka

Shelle Arnold of Topeka

James Beauchesne of Wichita

Nancy Burton of Wamego

Dale Burton of Wamego

Dale Burton of Wamego

Nancy Burton of Wamego

Brian Cox of Hays

Carla Cox of Hays

Lauren Dunn of Wichita

Bob Garnier of Olathe

Kimberly Garnier of Olathe

Jonathan Garnier of Olathe

Ashlyn Garnier of Olathe

Sandra Haugen of Wichita

Jay Haverdink of Overland Park

Edie Haverdink of Overland Park

Hayden Hedstrom of Topeka

Ricki Jamieson of Olathe

Mary Lou Jamieson of Olathe

Shaun Julian of Wichita

Sabrina Julian of Wichita

Evelyn Julian of Wichita

Marshall Julian of Wichita

Frank Montera of Wichita

Jeff Moore of Prairie Village

Babette Moore of Prairie Village

Melissa Morales of Overland Park

Andrew Mosser of Gardner

Sharon Pacheco of Olathe

Joe Pacheco of Olathe

Galen Rader of Olathe

Betty Rader of Olathe

Ashleigh Ragan of Wichita

Mickey Sandifer of Shawnee

William Stueven of Augusta

Sophie Stueven of Augusta

Vonda Stueven of Augusta

Ross Transch of Overland Park

Adam Wellman of Wichita

Elizabeth White of Overland Park

Debbie Wise of Great Bend
Andrew Gordon of Overland Park

Brennan Pruett of Overland Park

Jeremy Topp of Overland Park

Alliance for Pharmacy Compounding

Lisa Everett Anderson of Mission

Arden Anderson of Mission

Scott Folir of Lenexa

Hollie Resseguie of Overland Park

American Meat Producers Association

Katie Davidson of Linwood

Beau Stude of Fontana

American Pharmacists Association

Emily Prohaska of Lawrence

Tessa Schnelle of Louisburg

Asian American Hotel Owners Association

Jignesh Patel of Kansas

Central Christian School

Avery Duff of Hutchinson

Luke Eigsti of Hutchinson

Kara Moore of Hutchinson

John Walker of Hutchinson

Concerned Women for America

Toni Stewart of Topeka

Hematology Oncology Pharmaceutical Association

Zahra Mahmoudjafari of Kansas City

Human Animal Bond Research Institute

Michelle Russell of Erie

Staci Williams of Topeka

Independent Restaurant Coalition

Codi Bates of Lawrence

International Franchise Association

Jois Barker of Overland Park

Susan Boresow of Leawood

Mark Fisher of Lawrence

Patrich Frichleton of Overland Park

Melinda Kinders of Lawrence

Johnson County Developmental Supports

Chad VanAhnen of Overland Park

Kansas Association of Wheat Growers

Shayna Jensen of Manhattan

Clay Schemm of Sharon Springs

Kansas Automobile Dealers Association

Robert Brogden of Olathe

Larry Carl of Kansas City

Don McNeely of Topeka

Kansas Farm Bureau

Andrea DeJesus of Manhattan

Kansas Farmers Union

Rob Fisher of Ozawkie

Matthew Fowler of Emporia

Claire Geiger of Manhattan

Jeff Kindel of Aurora

Scott Kohl of Manhattan

Nick Levendofsky of Courtland

Mandy Trout of Russell

Preston Trout of Russell

Manhattan Area Technical College

Rachel Ohmes of Manhattan

National Confectioners Association

Caitlin Boon of Topeka

Kenneth Johnson of Topeka

National Skills Coalition

Jeff Connor-Naylor of Topeka

The University of Kansas Alzheimer's Research Center

Russell Swerdlow of Leawood

The University of Kansas Cancer Center

Roy Jensen of Gardner

The University of Kansas School of Education

Josh Newman of Lawrence

Elaina Sutley of Lawrence

Lisa Wolf-Wende of Lawrence

USD 344-Pleasanton

Don Epps of Pleasanton

Veterans of Foreign Wars

John Muckelbauer of Paola

Cheyne Worley of Overland Park

Women For Gun Rights

Tammy Bartels of Lawrence

Dianna Muller of Coffeyville