Kansas Common Sense
Demanding Answers on ISIS-linked Terrorists Entering the U.S.
On Wednesday, eight individuals connected to ISIS were detained by the FBI. These individuals were originally apprehended at the border, claimed asylum and were allowed to travel freely throughout the U.S. Last week, as Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, and Science, I questioned FBI Director Christopher Wray on the risk of potential terrorists entering the country through the southern border.
After reports that the eight individuals were arrested, I called on the FBI Director to provide answers to the American people on what steps the FBI is taking to make certain potential terrorists are apprehended at the border and not allowed to walk freely in the U.S. The Biden administration’s failure to control the border has endangered the American people and left our country vulnerable to attack.
You can read more about my questions to the FBI in Fox News here.
Discussing the State of the Airline Industry
This week, I addressed aviation stakeholders at Politico’s event “Flight Path: State of the Airline Industry.” The discussion included conversations with FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker and Southwest CEO Bob Jordan on how to support the traveling public and the overall health of the aviation industry. As the traveling public begins their summer travel plans, it is imperative the aviation sector can meet these demands in a safe and dependable manner. I also discussed the burgeoning industry of sustainable aviation fuel and my work to position Kansas agriculture and ethanol industries to be at the forefront.
I also discussed my legislation, the Farm to Fly Act, and the burgeoning industry of sustainable aviation fuel and my work to position Kansas agriculture and ethanol industries to be at the forefront.
You can read more about the event here.
Questioning FAA Administrator on Aviation Safety
On Thursday, the Senate Committee on Commerce held a hearing on “FAA Oversight of Aviation Manufacturing” with FAA Administrator Whitaker. I raised several important topics to the administrator including aircraft production rates of the 737 MAX aircraft, the intent of Boeing to acquire Spirit AeroSystems and recent conversations between the administrator and aviation manufacturers. Promoting the safety of the aviation industry is a main priority of mine that requires a collaborative effort between the FAA, Congress, aircraft manufacturers, airlines, air traffic controllers and other vital stakeholders.
Kansas has a strong and storied history within the aviation industry, but it will not continue if the flying public does not feel safe. I look forward to my continued partnership with the FAA and our vital stakeholders in the aviation arena to ensure the safety of our skies.
You can watch my questions to the FAA Administrator here.
Putting “Farm” back in the Farm Bill
This week, Sen. John Boozman (R-Ark.) – the Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture – released a framework for the Farm Bill. The Farm Bill framework does exactly what farmers in Kansas and throughout the country have asked for: it puts more farm in the Farm Bill by bolstering crop insurance, modernizing the farm safety net, expanding market access and development programs, maintaining locally led conservation programs and investing in our rural communities.
I am pleased the framework includes several of my legislative priorities, including the Farm to Fly Act and the Butcher Block Act. In addition, it provides significant investments for land grant universities such as Kansas State University. I look forward to continuing this debate and working with my colleagues to provide our producers with the tools necessary to combat the consequences of prolonged drought and help bring certainty to farmers, ranchers and families in Kansas.
Advocating for Fair Treatment for Organ Donations
This week several of my Senate colleagues and I sent a letter to the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) Board of Directors to ensure the Board, Congress and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) remain on the same page regarding implementation of the Securing the U.S. Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network Act. The Securing the OPTN Act, which passed in July of 2023, removed barriers in order to create a more open, competitive process to bid for an OPTN contract. While Congress and HHS have worked closely on implementation of the bill and to fund OPTN modernization, it was time to engage the current Board of Directors to make certain all stakeholders are involved to ensure congressional intent is understood.
Meeting with Panasonic
On Wednesday, I met with Allan Swan, President of Panasonic Energy, North America in Washington, D.C. for an update on the Panasonic DeSoto plant. We discussed ways to increase their competitive advantage in the marketplace against China by utilizing tax credits to manufacture clean energy domestically. We also discussed their partnerships with local organizations and universities to attract local talent.
Meeting with the SEC and Big 10 Regarding NIL
On Wednesday, I met with Big 10 Commissioner Tony Petitti and SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey to discuss the progress being made to establish a federal Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) standard for college sports. We discussed the recently-announced settlement to resolve outstanding antitrust cases against the NCAA and the Power Five conferences and the remaining work to enact a federal NIL law. While the settlements may resolve some outstanding lawsuits, federal legislation is still necessary to provide stability for college athletics.
I appreciate Commissioners Petitti and Sankey for taking the time to meet with me and for their work to resolve these important issues for college sports.
Meeting with Kansans
Garden City and Finney County
This week, I met with members from Garden City and Finney County local government. We discussed various new projects in Garden City, such as their efforts to make highway travel near Garden City more safe and the importance of passing a new Farm Bill. We also talked about Garden City's water reuse project that will pump more water into the Ogallala Aquifer each year starting in 2027.
Thank you to Matt Allen, Myca Bunch, Roy Cessna, Lovia DuVall, Scott Geier, Fred Jones, Hannah Keim, Garden City Mayor Manny Ortiz, Rachelle Powell, Courtney Prewitt, Derek Ramos and Chad Tenpenny for taking the time to meet with me.
Kansas Music Educators Association
On Wednesday, I met with the Kansas Music Educators Association in my Washington, D.C. office to hear updates on the music education programs in our state and the issues facing educators. Music programs are essential to fostering creativity and promoting teamwork skills in young Kansans, and I appreciate the dedication that these educators invest in their students each day.
Thank you to Jamie Minneman, Damian Johnson, Mark Gard, John Taylor and Kelly Knedler for taking the time to visit with me.
Congressional Award Gold Medalist
This week, I met with Daniel John of Overland Park to congratulate him on receiving the Congressional Award Gold Medal for his outstanding achievements. The Congressional Award, a charity founded by Congress, aims to recognize excellence in young people by examining four areas of achievement: Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness and Expedition. Over the course of two years, each awardee completed over 400 hours of community service, dedicated 200 hours to a personal development activity, 200 hours to physical fitness and completed a 5-day, 4-night expedition. This is an outstanding recognition, and Daniel should be very proud of his achievements. Thank you to the John family for meeting with me while visiting Washington, D.C.
Paralyzed Veterans of America Great Plains
On Thursday, I met with the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) Great Plains Chapter to discuss their legislative priorities to better the lives of veterans in Kansas. These include improving access to care at VA medical facilities and how to further support veterans, servicemembers and their families. I appreciate the support of PVA for my bill the Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act which removes existing VA caps on home care, allowing veterans to stay in their homes, makes certain that VA is adequately staffed and expands resources for veterans and their families.
Thank you to Shanya Goerdt and Amanda Vazquez from the PVA Great Plains Chapter for taking the time to meet with me and all of their work they do for veterans in Kansas.
Dodge City
This week, I met with leaders from Dodge City in Washington, D.C. We discussed the importance of transportation in the southwest corner of the state, especially the need for the Essential Air Service and Airport Improvement Programs, as well as the need for improvements on the highway system due to continuously increasing freight and commuter traffic in the region. They also provided updates on efforts to improve local traffic conditions near railways and in the high traffic areas in light of the city's continued economic development and the new Hilmar cheese plant expected to start production this year.
Thank you to Director of Public Works Corey Keller, Assistant City Manager Melissa McCoy and Mayor Chuck Taylor of Dodge City for meeting with me and for your leadership and efforts in western Kansas.
Kansas FFA
On Thursday, I was met with Kansas FFA students Kyle Ruehle of Dodge City and Tyler Martisko of Inman. The FFA Washington Leadership Conference allows FFA students from across the country to visit our nation's capital and learn about its history while receiving leadership experience and training. It was great to talk about their community involvement and plans for the future. Thank you Lukas and Cody for taking the time to visit with me.
Visits Across Kansas
Bartlett Grain
On Friday, I visited Bartlett Grain’s new soybean crushing facility. John Baumgartner and Nolan Allison provided a tour of plant operations and walked through the process of how to make soybean meal, pelletized hulls, renewable fuel feedstock and soybean oil. The Cherryvale facility has 50 employees and has been a catalyst for economic development in the area.
I appreciated Montgomery County Commissioner Mike Cordray, City Administrator Jonathan Booe, former State Representative Jim Kelly and Montgomery County Action Council director Melissa Johnson for taking the time to give me a tour and share how this project is impacting the region.
Coffeyville Regional Medical Center
On Friday morning, I was also in Montgomery County for the groundbreaking ceremony for a new primary care clinic at Coffeyville Regional Medical Center. As a member of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, I was able to help secure resources to support the construction of a new clinic. This clinic will increase the number of patients who can be cared for, as well as provide the opportunity for additional providers to be hired.
Thank you to CEO Brian Lawrence and board chair Monte Coffman for inviting me to speak and Coffeyville Mayor Alec Hendryx and Montgomery County Commission Chairman Mike Cordray for joining us.
Celebrating 249 Years of the Army
Friday marked 249 years of the U.S. Army. Thank you to all of those who have answered the call to defend and protect our nation, especially those at Fort Riley and Fort Leavenworth.
Kansans in the Office
Capitol Tours
Christine Bieser of Tonganoxie
Eric Bieser Jr. of Tonganoxie
Easton Brous of Lenexa
Jock Brous of Olathe
Griffin Brous of Olathe
Stacy Brous of Olathe
Cameron Christopher of Silver Lake
Jamie Christopher of Silver Lake
Jacob Christopher of Silver Lake
Logan Christopher of Silver Lake
Michael Christopher of Silver Lake
Piper Creighton of Stockton
Allison Dix of Stockton
Alissa Foshee of Overland Park
Audrey Foshee of Overland Park
Dave Foshee of Overland Park
Eliya Foshee of Overland Park
Hayleigh Francis of Gardner
Michele Green of Valley Center
Fredrick Green of Valley Center
Ezekiel Green of Valley Center
Stephanie Ham of Wichita
Caroline John of Overland Park
Daniel John of Overland Park
Michael John of Overland Park
Madison Johnson of Phillipsburg
Aldea Keith of Hill City
Gregg Kipers of Lawrence
Marah Kipers of Lawrence
Deann Kipers of Lawrence
Michele Leigan of Valley Center
Trnette Logan of Wichita
Anna McLaughlin of Topeka
Julia McLaughlin of Topeka
Amanda Menninga of Newton
Emma Menninga of Newton
Joseph Menninga of Newton
Sam Menninga of Newton
Taydem Mitzner of Hill City
Jeremiah Mohlan of Topeka
Jeffrey Morris of Topeka
Megan Morris of Topeka
Gianna Morris of Topeka
Jeremiah Moylan of Topeka
Jack Parker of Olathe
Shana Parker of Olathe
Mary Rivera of Wichita
Madyson Runyon of Kirwin
Lukas Sebesta of Hill City
Cody Summitt of Phillipsburg
Danika Szopinski of Topeka
Ann Taylor of Dodge City
William Wehrs of Topeka
Gail Weinberg of Olathe
Gary Weinberg of Olathe
Kylie Weir of Topeka
Emily Wheeler of Olathe
Jacob Wheeler of Olathe
Nevaeh Wheeler of Olathe
Sam Wheeler of Olathe
Afterschool Alliance
Gina Knapp of Overland Park
Michael Lemon of Merriam
American Bakers Association
Sean Bassi of Overland Park
Brook Carson of Prairie Village
Joanie Spencer of Overland Park
John Spencer of Overland Park
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Legha Dobson of Hays
American Horse Council
Monica Chapman of Pleasanton
Alan Hinds of Lawrence
Justine Staten of Olsburg
American Nephrology Nurses Association
Molly Cahill of Overland Park
American Planning Association
Lauren Driscoll of Salina
Karie Kneller of Mission
American Promise
Zachary Weaver of Overland Park
American Subcontractors Association
Andrew Christ of Olathe
Brad Miller of Stillwell
Associated Equipment Distributors
Adam Berry of Wichita
Steve Meadows of Wichita
Brewers Association
Jason Leib of Shawnee
Cargill
Kooper O’Brien of Wichita
Children’s Mercy KC
Lisa Horn of Kansas City
Dallas Polen of Kansas City
Citizens Climate Lobby
Alan Bauman of Prairie Village
Matilda King of Manhattan
Olayemi Oveoken of Manhattan
City of Dodge City
Corey Keller of Dodge City
Mauricio Leautaud of Dodge City
Melissa McCoy of Dodge City
Chuck Taylor of Dodge City
City of Garden City/Finney County Delegation
Matt Allen of Garden City
Myca Bunch of Garden City
Roy Cessna of Garden City
Lovia DuVall of Garden City
Scott Geier of Garden City
Fred Jones of Garden City
Hannah Keim of Garden City
Manny Ortiz of Garden City
Rachelle Powell of Garden City
Courtney Prewitt of Garden City
Derek Ramos of Garden City
Chad Tenpenny of Leawood
Ducks Unlimited
Mike Bulk of Sabetha
Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund/Moms Demand Action
Kristen Blackton of Shawnee
LaTonya Boyd of Topeka
David Carttar of Lawrence
DeeDee Cooper of Mission Hills
Colleen Cunningham of Overland Park
Amanda Head of Parsons
Sontana Johnson of Parsons
Christi Karolevitz of Topeka
Shannon Little of Topeka
Katie Mangelsdorf of Lenexa
Claudia Olea of Lawrence
Melissa Reichmeier of Overland Park
Cori Sherman North of Salina
Mary Snipes of Junction City
Joe Tortorici of Overland Park
Ann Williamson of Topeka
Falun Dafa Association of Kansas City
Sara Effner of Kansas City
Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City
Cole Griggs of Lenexa
Mark Hoffman of Leawood
Brenner Holland from Overland Park
Will Ruder of Overland Park
George Schluter of Kansas City
Howe Street Group
Maggie Collins of Leawood
Independent Electrical Contractors
Jason Snell of Wichita
Aaron Stevens of Wichita
Keely Turner of Wichita
Kansas Building Industry Association
Keely Carney of Topeka
Sean Miller of Topeka
Kansas City Delegation for AJC Global Forum
Gavi Geller of Kansas City
Andrea Johnson Krakow of Fairway
Jason Krakow of Fairway
Kansas Music Educators Association
Keaton Alexander of Overland Park
Martha Gabel of Olathe
Mark Gard of Coffeyville
Damian Johnson of Eudora
Kelly Knedler of Concordia
Jamie Minneman of Great Bend
John Taylor of Wichita
KVC Health Systems
Chad Anderson of Olathe
Nicole Norvell of Lawrence
Greg Porter of Kansas City
National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization
Kacey Cattoor of Mayetta
Corey Craig of Lenexa
Brandy Harris of Hutchinson
AJ Patterson of Topeka
National Student Leadership Congress
Samari Ewing of Topeka
Ju’Lyssa Juarez of Topeka
Susan G. Komen Advocacy Summit
Evelyn Chavez of North Newton
Peggy Johnson of Wichita
Michael Steiner of Overland Park
Topeka & Wichita Area Building Association
Thomas Baalmann of Wichita
Michael Brumley of Topeka
Will Gelyor of Wichita
Carl Harris of Newton
Katy Nelson of Topeka
Kristi O’Kane of Topeka
Patrick O’Kane of Topeka
Mike Pressgrove of Topeka
Brandon Salisbury
Owen Shigley of Augusta
Tim Shigley of Augusta
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