Good afternoon, and welcome to our Weekend Update.

First, I want to acknowledge the horrific tragedy that occurred in York County on Wednesday. Shelley and I are praying for the families and loved ones of the three police officers who were killed today in York County, as well as for the two officers who were injured. We also lift up the entire York County law enforcement community during this heartbreaking time.

The men and women who wear the badge represent the very best of our communities. They step forward each day with courage, never knowing what dangers they may face, yet always committed to protecting others. Today’s tragedy is a painful reminder of the risks they take on our behalf.

We will continue to keep these officers and their families in our thoughts and prayers, asking for strength, comfort, and peace for all who are impacted.

I joined “Newsline” on Newsmax to speak about the tragic events in York County. I also pushed back on Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s outrageous remarks, noting that such statements drive hate and can lead to violent acts. Finally, I discussed the Fed’s rate cut—how supply-side growth and lower rates will strengthen housing, reduce inflation, and add billions to our GDP. Click here or below to watch.

This morning, the memorial service for the great Charlie Kirk will take place in Arizona. President Donald Trump will be speaking. We will hear from Charlie's widow, Erika, who will pay tribute to her husband. While this tragedy is still so fresh, the emotions of sadness and anger are still felt daily; it is important that we take time to mourn and remember all that Charlie achieved in just 31 short years. His movement will continue and build, and as Erika Kirk said, "we've only just begun." His memorial service begins at 2 pm ET. Click here or below to watch.

As tens of thousands of Americans gather today for Charlie Kirk’s memorial, we should reflect not only on his life but on the truth he fought to share. Sadly, AOC’s message in the video below is exactly the problem—too often, the left completely inverts Charlie’s words, twisting his message of faith, family, and freedom to make him out to be something he’s not. False claims like this can drive hate, and hate can lead to violence. Click here or below to watch.

On Saturday morning, I joined "Fox News Live" on Fox News, where I discussed President Trump’s H-1B visa reforms, which finally enforce the rules and hold employers accountable so American graduates aren’t undercut in the tech workforce. I also highlighted the importance of passing the House’s clean, short-term CR. Senate Democrats are now standing in the way — and by refusing to act, they are choosing a government shutdown over working for the American people. Republicans will continue to lead responsibly and foster a strong, growing economy. Click here or below to watch.

On Monday morning, I joined the "RJ Harris Show" on WHP 580. I discussed the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk and the need for our nation to find its better angels. Charlie was bold, optimistic, and unafraid of debate—values that should be celebrated, not silenced.

I also spoke about government funding. President Trump has a plan rooted in accountability and results, and Republicans are working to keep the government open. Democrats voting to shut it down for political purposes is irresponsible and harmful to the American people.

We will continue to fight for policies that strengthen our economy, support our communities, and keep our government functioning. Click here or below to listen.

IN NEWS YOU WON’T HEAR IN THE MAINSTREAM MEDIA: After falling to an 11-year low during the Biden Administration, new polling shows “Americans’ faith in the economy and direction of the nation is back on track and shooting higher” amid President Trump’s relentless America First agenda.

In fact, the share of Americans who say gas prices are a “major problem” is down by 15% over last year; the same is true for housing costs (down 11%) and grocery prices (down 8%). Meanwhile, small business owners are feeling renewed optimism driven by a sharp rise in approval “across the political spectrum” for President Trump’s economic policies.

Here’s why:

• Homeownership is more affordable: Mortgage rates have fallen to a three-year low — finally making the American Dream more accessible for Americans after millions of illegal immigrants drove housing costs up under Biden.
  
  
• Driving costs less: Americans are spending the smallest share of their disposable income on gasoline since 2005, while the annual cost to own and operate a new vehicle is down by nearly six percent over last year, and gas prices are lower across the board.
  
  
• Americans are spending like never before: Retail sales are booming — up 5% over last year, far outpacing inflation — as Americans spend in record amounts.
  
  
• Americans are earning more: After inflation outpaced wages for 26 straight months under Biden, real wages have increased nearly every month since President Trump took office — driven by historic wage gains for blue-collar workers, which are rising at the fastest rate in six decades.
  
  
• Retirements are booming: The stock market is booming, with the Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all hitting new record highs. In fact, the S&P 500 is up nearly 15% and the Nasdaq is up more than 21% since Election Day.
  
  
• An industrial renaissance is here: President Trump has secured nearly $9 trillion in U.S. investment — nearly nine times more than Biden attracted in his entire four-year term — as companies report a resurgence in competitiveness thanks to the landmark reforms of the One Big Beautiful Bill.

On Tuesday, I joined my friend, CMS Administrator Dr. Oz, to discuss the launch of the $50 Billion Rural Health Transformation Fund—the largest investment in rural health care in our nation’s history.

For decades, rural hospitals have been left behind—receiving only 7% of Medicaid hospital spending while facing higher disease rates and longer travel times for care. This new investment represents a fundamental shift toward lasting reforms that will deliver better outcomes for patients and greater stability for rural providers.

Made possible through President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts, this funding will strengthen rural hospitals, expand access to care, support workforce development, and drive innovation that makes Rural America Healthy Again.

In the House Committee on Small Business, I raised concerns with SBA leadership about the reckless policies of the Biden Administration that doubled the agency’s workforce, relaxed underwriting standards, and left taxpayers with $2.2 billion in projected loan defaults.

Under President Trump, we’ve restored integrity by reinstating guardrails, strengthening oversight, and refocusing lending on businesses that can grow — especially rural small businesses. My Investing in All of America Act would help expand those opportunities, and I’ll continue working to ensure taxpayer dollars are protected and small businesses have the tools they need to succeed. Click here or below to watch.

In the Financial Services Committee, I spoke in support of H.R. 3234 – the Reciprocal Deposits Small Bank Access Act, Whip Congressman Tom Emmer’s legislation to strengthen our community banks.

This bill ensures that reciprocal deposits—a stable, relationship-based funding source—are treated as the safe deposits they are.

By modernizing outdated restrictions, H.R. 3234 gives smaller community banks the flexibility they need to serve customers and keep capital flowing to small businesses and local economies. Click here or below to watch.

I met with PNC Head of Regional Presidents, Lou Cestello, and Regional President of Northwest Pennsylvania, James Stevenson, to discuss how we can strengthen access to capital for Pennsylvania families, small businesses, and communities.

We discussed the importance of relationship banking—banks like PNC that know their customers and reinvest directly in their neighborhoods.

When institutions like PNC are strong, housing is more affordable, small businesses can grow, and families have the resources they need to succeed.

I’ll continue working to ensure capital flows where it’s needed most—supporting growth here in Pennsylvania and across the country.

In the Financial Services Committee Republicans, I spoke in support of H.R. 3682 — the FSOC Improvement Act.

This bipartisan legislation reins in the overreach of the Financial Stability Oversight Council that occurred under the Biden Administration.

The bill restores transparency, accountability, and fairness by requiring FSOC to consult with companies and regulators, and carefully consider the cost-benefit analysis before designating a nonbank with bank-like regulations.

This is a deliberate, targeted, and long-overdue step to ensure strong financial stability without discouraging investment. Click here or below to watch.

On Wednesday, we celebrated National Constitution Day and the freedoms that make America the greatest nation on earth.

Our Constitution safeguards individual rights, keeps government accountable to the people, and serves as a guiding light for free nations everywhere.

That’s why schools across America should dedicate a lesson this week to the Constitution—not just how it was drafted, but what it means today. Teaching the next generation about the foundation of our democratic republic will strengthen their understanding of freedom and the responsibilities of citizenship.

Later, I was happy to meet with Rick and Brian Knoebel to discuss legislative issues affecting Pennsylvania’s amusement parks and attractions.

For nearly a century, Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg has been a place where families across our region come together to make lasting memories. From its start in 1926 as a pool and carousel along Roaring Creek, Knoebels has grown into one of America’s premier amusement parks while staying true to its tradition of free admission, classic rides, and family hospitality.

That dedication to excellence is why Knoebels continues to earn top recognition, including:

• Two Golden Ticket Awards in 2025: “Best Wooden Coaster” for the Phoenix (seven years running!) and the “Best Food” LEGEND Award, after so many wins.
  
  
• USA Today’s 2025 Rankings: Knoebels was named the #2 Best Theme Park in the nation, the Phoenix ranked the #2 Best Roller Coaster in America, and The Alamo at Knoebels was ranked the #1 Best Theme Park Restaurant in the country.

The Knoebel family’s commitment to safe, affordable, family-friendly fun has made their park not only a treasure for Pennsylvania but also a national destination. I thank them for their continued leadership and for the joy they bring to families throughout our region.

On Thursday, I chaired the Financial Services Committee Republicans Oversight & Investigations Subcommittee. I led a hearing on the growing threat of financial fraud and scams.

Last year alone, Americans reported 2.6 million cases of scams with losses of more than $12 billion—a 25% increase from the year before. From check fraud to romance scams, these crimes are impacting families of all ages. But this is only the tip of the iceberg.

This is the beginning of our Committee’s work to strengthen consumer protections and pursue a whole-of-society approach—bringing together government, the financial sector, and technology partners—to stop scammers before they strike. Click here or below to watch my remarks.

During the hearing, I questioned witnesses on the alarming rise of fraud and scams. We discussed how these crimes are increasingly driven by transnational criminal networks and state-backed hackers, whose schemes are more convincing than ever.

Stopping this surge will require a whole-of-society approach—government, law enforcement, the financial sector, and technology companies all working together.

I questioned witnesses on how we can better coordinate efforts, including creating a central office of fraud and scam prevention, so victims know where to turn and agencies can respond quickly. This is not just a financial issue—it is a growing national security threat, and our Committee is committed to leading the fight. Click here or below to watch.

Financial Services Committee Republicans are committed to understanding the threats facing our constituents and the factors contributing to the increase in financial fraud and scams.

We need a whole-of-society approach. Click here or below to watch my remarks.

Additionally, click here to read a recap of our hearing from the Wilkes-Barre Times Leader. 

Later, I met with members of the National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab Technology (NCART) to discuss the importance of ensuring access to Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) for individuals with disabilities.

We spoke about the importance of complex rehab technology for those with severe disabilities.

I met with Jason Henderson, Interim U.S. CEO and Head of Banking.

We discussed HSBC’s U.S. operations, their positive view on global trade conditions, the importance of right-sizing capital standards, and the bank’s work to combat financial fraud and scams.

These discussions are vital as we work to keep our financial system secure, competitive, and focused on growth.

I met with Cam Fowler, CEO of Zelle and Early Warning Services.

We discussed the role Zelle plays in everyday life—moving nearly $600 billion in just the first half of 2025 alone. We also focused on strategies to prevent fraud and strengthen identity verification, which remain top priorities for consumers and Congress alike.

Following my Financial Services Committee Republicans hearing on fraud, I will continue engaging with industry leaders like Zelle to explore innovative solutions that protect Americans and support our economy. We need a whole of society approach, everyone needs to come to the table to solve this.

I met with leaders from Pennsylvania’s aggregates and construction materials industry to discuss the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization and the future of the Highway Trust Fund.

We focused on the need for fair materials access, streamlined permitting, stronger workforce development, and resilient supply chains to keep America’s infrastructure competitive.

I appreciate the insights shared by Ethan Huff (GeoSonics/Vibra-Tech), David McCracken (ASTEC), Andrew Gutshall (Heidelberg Materials), Chip Morgan (HAZEMAG USA), Megan Dennis (PACA), David Schnackenberg and Travis Bailey (Allan Myers), and Kelly Whelihan (Eco Materials).

Together, we’re working to ensure that Pennsylvania producers and workers remain at the center of building America’s roads, bridges, and critical infrastructure.

I met with leaders from Blaschak Anthracite and the Pennsylvania Anthracite Council to discuss policies that will strengthen Pennsylvania’s domestic anthracite industry.

Our conversation focused on addressing unfair foreign trade practices and ensuring federal policies recognize anthracite’s critical role in U.S. steelmaking and national security.

Thank you to Greg Driscoll and Duane Feagley for sharing your expertise.

Supporting anthracite means supporting good-paying Pennsylvania jobs and preserving a resource that is vital to America’s energy and manufacturing future.

On Thursday, we celebrated the 77th Birthday of the United States Air Force.

Since 1947, the Air Force has stood at the forefront of American strength—protecting our skies, advancing innovation, and ensuring freedom around the world.

To the brave men and women who wear the uniform and those who have served before you: thank you for your service, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to our nation.

Happy Birthday, U.S. Air Force! Aim High—Fly, Fight, Win.

This week, I met with representatives from the durable medical equipment industry. We discussed working to protect the industry from burdensome regulations, ensuring they can continue to deliver important life-sustaining products to their customers.

Friday was National POW/MIA Recognition Day, where we paused to remember the heroes who were taken prisoner while serving our nation and those still missing in action.

We honor their courage, their sacrifice, and the families who continue to wait for answers. America’s promise to them remains steadfast: you are not forgotten.

On Thursday, I was honored to join my colleagues in celebration of former Congressman Patrick McHenry, who was awarded the 2025 Freedom Award by the U.S. Capitol Historical Society. Well deserved!

On Friday evening, I joined Senator Lynda Schlegel Culver and Representative Robert Leadbeter at the America250PA Bells Across PA Unveiling at the Bloomsburg Fair in Columbia County. Thanks to Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director of America250PA, and Randy Karchner, Bloomsburg Fair President, for organizing this celebration.

For nearly 170 years, the Bloomsburg Fair has been a place where generations of Pennsylvanians gather to celebrate family, hard work, and tradition. As we look ahead to our nation’s 250th anniversary, it is a time to remember, reflect, and be grateful—and to commit ourselves to ensuring the next generation inherits a nation that is stronger, freer, and more united.

Let us come together not as a house divided red and blue, but as one nation—red, white, and blue.

On Saturday morning, the Republican Party of Pennsylvania held its Fall Meeting, and they endorsed our great friend, State Treasurer Stacy Garrity, for Governor. I have previously endorsed Stacy, and I remain confident that she will help us take back the governor's office in 2026. I am all on board for Stacy, and I urge you to join me!

Finally, Aiden Carr from Schuylkill County, whom we nominated to the US military Academy at West Point, graduated, and he’s now being trained to fly Blackhawk helicopters to defend the United States of America and all Americans. We are very proud to have supported and nominated Aiden to West Point, and we are equally proud of him for being such a great Pennsylvanian and an outstanding American. We appreciate you. See you soon.

May God continue to bless our nation. I look forward to seeing you soon,