100 days of work – and a deep sense of gratitude

GUEST OPINION

Since taking office just over 100 days ago, I’ve cast 100 votes – focused on securing our borders, combating fentanyl, strengthening national security and supporting a responsible federal budget to keep our government open while we start to tackle the challenge of our national debt.

I’ve introduced four bills, co-sponsored more than 50, and become the first freshman in Congress to pass a bill through the House. I’ve held seven town halls, and met with hundreds of constituents. Our office team has responded to 9,202 calls and 20,648 emails.

Walking through the US Capitol before the day begins – surrounded by the paintings and history that tell America’s great story – is a powerful reminder that this job is about serving the people of Eastern Washington and protecting the American dream for the next generation. That sense of responsibility only deepens when returning home and sitting down with wheat growers in Rockford, nurses in Colville, or veterans in Walla Walla who are concerned about our future.

It is a steep learning curve, and I’ve appreciated many who have agreed to serve on my newly formed advisory committees across the 5th District, sharing their expertise to help shape policy on agriculture, judiciary, education, and more.

Our Agriculture Advisory Council is helping ensure our farmers have a seat at the table in shaping the next Farm Bill. I’ve supported irrigation infrastructure, backed ag research at WSU, and spoken against trade barriers that threaten our export economy.

I co-sponsored the Defending Our Dams Act to protect the Lower Snake River dams – essential for transportation of agricultural commodities and products, and for clean, affordable energy. I also helped advance bipartisan bills to support rural hospitals and reauthorize the Secure Rural Schools program, which is a lifeline for communities in Ferry, Lincoln, Pend Oreille and Stevens Counties.

In committee, I stood with Adams County Sheriff Dale Wagner when his department came under fire for upholding federal immigration law. I passed the DETERRENT Act to expose foreign interference on college campuses. And I introduced the Restore College Sports Act to give small schools and student athletes a fair shot in a system increasingly tilted toward billion-dollar brands.

Civility and respect are American values. When I invited a high school teacher from Wilbur-Creston to attend the President’s address, I hoped her students would see our democracy at work. What they saw instead was disruption. I took to the House to censure my colleague to condemn that behavior because I believe we owe it to the next generation to do better.

I’m committed to continuing to respond to your questions and seek your opinions.

This job is a privilege and it is an honor to be your voice in Congress.