Homeland Security is national security. As I am sure you recall from my newsletter to you two weeks ago, Democrats in Washington remain staunch in their refusal to work with Republicans to reopen the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This is dangerous, irresponsible behavior on their part especially when considering the renewed threats from our nation’s adversaries overseas following the successful U.S. military combat operation in Iran. The longer that this agency is shut down – and is unable to perform at the highest operational capacity – the more vulnerable the nation becomes to all manner of threats. This is entirely unacceptable, and our immediate attention should be centered upon getting the agency up and running as quickly as possible.

Over the weekend, I shared my thoughts on the situation in Iran, and I wholeheartedly support President Trump, his administration, our ally Israel, and our strategic partners overseas in their efforts to eliminate Iran’s nuclear capabilities and turn the Iranian Regime into rubble. A new opportunity for peace has been kindled in the Middle East, and the nations of the world should embrace the decimation of the chief sponsor of global terrorism. We should also recognize that the people of Iran have endured brutal repression under the regime as well – they deserve unbridled freedom on their own terms. On Tuesday afternoon in the Rules Committee, I outlined how the regime – for nearly five decades – has remained a constant threat to our homeland, our servicemembers, and the American people. Time and time again, its malign actions have been etched in the pages of history. 

I am pleased to report to you that this funding package for DHS passed the House late this week, after I proudly advanced it through the Rules Committee and to have supported it on the House floor. Currently, this package is en route to the Senate. It remains imperative that we ensure a strong posture of security for our homeland – a failure to do so is a failure to protect the American people and a failure to protect our interests. The Senate can, and should, take up this funding package immediately. The safety and security of the American people are on the line.

Holding Them Accountable

On Wednesday, Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison of Minnesota testified before the House Oversight Committee on the rampant fraud that has been allowed to fester within their state. Billions of taxpayer dollars were stolen from various social services programs within the state, and neither of these two state officials acted with any urgency to stop it. Extensive money laundering schemes and blatant fraud were ignored. In this week’s hearing, I confronted Governor Walz with some hard-hitting questions on his lack of urgency and oversight.

To watch the full hearing in the Oversight Committee, click here. 

A Piece of American History

There’s a new opportunity for undergraduate students in postsecondary education across the nation: the America’s Startup Competition. This competition allows these students – the aspiring entrepreneurs of our nation – to submit their business ideas that can help propel America’s economic, technological, and innovative prowess. As part of this challenge, participants submit a proposal and pitch video outlining their business idea, with selected teams advancing through a multi-stage review process that includes a live pitch experience.

To learn more about the America’s Startup Competition, click here.  

Quote of The Week

“My foremost responsibility is our national security, just as it is the prime duty of Congress to appropriate the necessary resources to keep our defenses strong. This is our duty, not only to America but to the cause of human freedom.”

-Ronald Reagan

Have a blessed weekend,