John,
It’s been a busy week back in our nation’s capital for the start of Session, where the fight for our America First priorities continues. I wanted to take a moment to update you on the important work we are doing to advance our conservative values.
Session is underway, and Republicans are already busy delivering results. The Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act 2026 passed the House on Thursday, by a narrow margin of 214-213. I voted in favor of this bill, which will help rebuild and revamp infrastructure, strengthen our military, and harvest more American energy. The bill will allocate $57.3 billion, nearly a billion less than FY25, yet it’ll be far more beneficial to our country, especially our rural communities. It also directly supports key industries in Minnesota, like mining, which fuel jobs here at home and strengthen America’s supply chain worldwide. A close vote like this is a stark reminder of how crucial it is to maintain a Republican majority in 2026.
Last Saturday, my colleague Rep. Brad Finstad and I welcomed Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin to Sleepy Eye, where he announced that the EPA will not impose new wastewater regulations on poultry and meat processing plants. The change is a massive win for our consumers, farmers, and ranchers by helping to keep costs down at the supermarket, on farms, and in processing facilities. This announcement is part of the EPA’s “Powering the Great American Comeback” initiative under the Trump administration to reduce red tape and nonsensical regulations that burden our agriculture industry. I applaud this action and look forward to seeing continued steps to empower our nation’s hardworking farmers and ranchers.
Speaking of agriculture, I was proud to again partner with Rep. Finstad to co-sponsor his bill, the American Protein Processing Modernization Act, which expedites inspection for meat and poultry plants and facilities. For Minnesota agriculture, this is especially important. Our rural farms lead the nation in meat and poultry production. Timely inspections help local processors operate efficiently, reduce costs, and expand capacity without compromising safety. By speeding up the approval process for inspection rates, Minnesota farmers and ranchers can get their products to market faster, supporting local jobs, rural communities, and the state’s economy. This legislation is a practical step to empower our farmers and ranchers and ensure they can continue feeding America. I am eager to work with my colleagues in the House to pass this bill.
As always, thank you for your continued trust and support. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance with anything.
With gratitude,
