Dear friend,
This past week was filled with hearings, classified briefings, votes, introduction of legislation, and meetings with constituent advocacy groups and military leaders.
On Monday, I introduced bipartisan legislation to return Congress’ constitutionally authorized role in setting and approving U.S. trade policy, along with Representatives Jeff Hurd (R-CO-03), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05), and Gregory Meeks (D-NY-05). H.R. 2665 The Trade Review Act of 2025 requires that unilateral tariffs proposed by the executive branch receive congressional authority. The Constitution clearly gives the authority for taxes and tariffs to Congress, but for too long, we have handed that authority to the executive branch. This is less about the actual tariffs laid by the Trump Administration, some of which I support because they are reciprocal, but more a commitment to uphold the Constitution. Congress has the power of the purse. Our Founders created checks and balances for a reason. You can learn more about my legislation here.
This week, the House voted to approve the Senate's budget plan, making progress toward extending the tax cuts. I voted yes because the tax cuts are vital to our economy at a time when the American people need more money, not less, in their pockets. If the tax cuts are not extended, the average American and small business will pay 20% more in taxes.
Also, the vote does not prevent debate on my bipartisan legislation, H.R. 2665, The Trade Review Act of 2025, which aims to restore Congressional oversight over the executive branch’s ability to unilaterally impose tariffs. I look forward to having the debate on it.
We had a busy week with hearings held by the House Armed Services Committee (HASC). First, I discussed why we must maintain our military presence in Europe. Showing any weakness to Putin is not an option. Our Baltic allies are on the frontline, dedicating over 2-3% to defense because they understand the imminent threat from Russia. We have a responsibility to uphold moral clarity. You can view my full remarks here.
From China's growing threat to Russia's aggression & Iran, the world's largest exporter of terror, America faces multiple threats. As leader of the free world, we must up our capabilities across all domains, especially in electronic warfare, aircraft & submarine production. Watch my full remarks here.
During Wednesday’s HASC Republicans Strategic Forces Posture hearing, I discussed with STRATCOM leadership how expanding our bomber fleet to 145 B-21s would strengthen America's strategic deterrence and maintain our defense capabilities against evolving global threats. Watch the full discussion here.
This week I had a great meeting with Nebraska Cattlemen! Our Nebraska cattle producers are essential to feeding families across America and around the globe. We are always proud to support their critical role in our nation's food security and Nebraska's AG economy.
