Editorial

July 25, 2017

This summer, I have been working hard to make sure Michigan’s priorities move forward in Congress. This includes protecting the Great Lakes, improving our infrastructure, strengthening our national security and helping our veterans. As the only Michigan member of the House Appropriations Committee, I have oversight of federal departments and agencies. Here is an update on some issues of concern to all Michigan residents.

Issues:AccountabilityVeteransAgricultureBudgetGreat Lakes

It’s Time for a New Soo Lock

May 26, 2017

Editorial

In Congress, there is bipartisan support for new investment in our country’s infrastructure, but all of those projects will need the iron ore that goes through the Soo Locks and the American steel that comes from it. Funding a new Soo lock is a necessary down payment to ensure these projects happen.

Issues:Great LakesJobs and the EconomyTransportation & Infrastructure

Protecting the Great Lakes

March 16, 2017

Editorial

I have written a new op-ed about my efforts to protect the Great Lakes.

Issues:Great Lakes

Serving You in Michigan and Washington

December 18, 2016

Editorial

One of the joys of serving as your congressman is honoring our current soldiers and veterans for their service to our country.

This month, I voted to give our troops their largest pay increase in six years. They make sacrifices every day to keep us safe and the raise they have earned is a small part of thanking them and their families for their service to our nation.

Issues:AccountabilityVeteransEducation and OpportunityJobs and the Economy

Serving You in Michigan and Washington

December 15, 2016

Editorial

"To be accountable to you, I have made it a priority to be available, meeting constituents in all 15 counties of the district in 2016. At listening sessions, we discussed current events and your concerns about issues before Congress. You passionately care about the future of our country and I appreciate your input while representing you in Washington."

Issues:AccountabilityVeteransNational Security

Listening to You and Helping You With the Federal Government

January 17, 2016

Editorial

In 2015, my office assisted with over 1,000 cases involving federal agencies, including Veterans Affairs, the IRS and the Social Security Administration. It also responded to 26,172 emails and letters from constituents and held more than 150 constituent hours in counties across the district.

Issues:AccountabilityVeteransBudgetForeign AffairsHealth CareTax Reform

Fourth District Congressman Looks Back, Ahead

January 2, 2016

Editorial

I am honored by the trust you have placed in me to serve as your representative in Washington, D.C. It is a privilege that I do not take for granted. Reflecting on my first year in Congress, I have had many remarkable experiences, and a couple stand out as highlights — like attending the president's State of the Union speech. It was fascinating, just looking around the House and walking through Statuary Hall is amazing. The Capitol is truly a majestic building and a landmark that all Americans can be proud of.

Issues:AccountabilityEducation and OpportunityForeign AffairsNational Security

Medals for Our Heroes

November 11, 2015

Editorial

This Veterans Day, we celebrate with the men and women who have defended our country. With their service they have made the world a better place and they continue to make a positive difference in our communities today.

This year, I had the honor of presenting five veterans in our region with medals, including two with the Purple Heart. All veterans deserve recognition for their service and I am privileged to assist these gentlemen in receiving their awards.

I would like to share their stories with you.

Issues:Veterans

Constituent's Idea Becomes a Bill for Tax Relief

October 13, 2015

Editorial

In Michigan, we see rising costs in our grocery bills, health care and, for those with young children, the cost of child care. However, while the cost of child care is increasing, the amount of this tax benefit remains the same. So, in an email to my office, this constituent suggested that our tax code should be updated to allow the tax-free benefit to increase with the rate of inflation. Now his idea is a bill in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Issues:AccountabilityEducation and OpportunityJobs and the EconomyTax Reform

Working for Our Farming Families

October 6, 2015

Editorial

It is harvest time and Michigan farmers have had a challenging growing season. As the leaves turn colors and families head out to cider mills, here are the highlights of the year so far in Michigan agriculture and the bills I have voted for to help our farming families prosper.

Issues:Agriculture