Gold Star Families Remembrance Week
As a Marine, I know there is no more sacred duty than honoring our fallen soldiers and their families. I was proud to help introduce legislation marking this week as Gold Star Families Remembrance Week to honor the families of fallen service members.
The resolution honors Hoosiers like Sandy Terwiske, a Gold Star Mother who lost her son Lance Corporal Alec Terwiske during combat operations in Afghanistan. This is just one small action we can take to pay tribute to our greatest heroes.
Fighting for Hoosier Jobs
This spring, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced it would allow AquaBounty Technologies in Delaware County to start production of genetically engineered salmon and salmon eggs creating jobs and healthier food options for Hoosiers.
However, the agriculture appropriations bill currently under consideration in the Senate contains language that would immediately cease AquaBounty’s operations. Not only would this harm Hoosier jobs, it could prevent other researchers and developers from investing in the United States.
With Hoosier jobs on the line, I'm committed to fighting against needless provisions that undermine the free market and stand in the way of science and innovation. Last week, I wrote a letter to the Chairman and Ranking member of the Appropriations Committee to remove this harmful language from the agriculture appropriations bill.
Honor Flight
I had the privilege of meeting Indiana veterans through Northeast Indiana’s Honor Flight program last week. These soldiers defended our nation during a time of global uncertainty and their sacrifices ensured our American liberties for years to come. As a veteran myself, meeting with Hoosier service members at the war memorials built in their honor is a moving experience.
It’s Time to Investigate China’s Influence
China’s influence continues to grow within international organizations and risks undermining solutions to some of the world’s most pressing global challenges. We cannot allow one country to prevent advancement against human rights abuses, nuclear proliferation, pandemic disease, global economic crises, and climate change. With world leaders gathered at the United Nations this week, now is the time to push back against China’s unchecked grab at power.
That’s why I introduced bipartisan legislation to require intelligence reports on Chinese objectives, tactics, and influence in international organizations - to make sure that China is acting for the benefit of the UN and all of its members. In addition, sent a letter encouraging President Trump to call on other countries at the UN to maximize trade pressure on China.
Situation in Hong Kong
Last week, there was a bicameral hearing to investigate Beijing’s suppression of Hong Kong’s political beliefs. We cannot allow Beijing’s communists to take advantage of Hong Kong’s economic prosperity while systematically undermining their rights and eradicating their political identity. As one of our allies, it is our duty to support Hong Kong as they fight against communist oppression.
Click here or on the image below to hear my full remarks condemning Beijing’s communists.
Rising Tensions in the Middle East
Last week, I joined Neil Cavuto on Fox News to discuss rising tensions in the Middle East. With Iran-backed attacks on Saudi oil fields, it is important we play our part in sustaining peace in the region.
Watch the full interview by clicking here, or the image below.
Also last week, the Senate voted to confirm John Rakolta as Ambassador of the UAE. I recently visited the region, and can attest to the importance of maintaining an open and candid dialogue with our security partners in the Middle East. Senator Angus King and I wrote an op-ed for Defense News highlighting this and other key takeaways from our trip.
Protecting Innocent Life
Sadly, it appears that Indiana has our very own Kermit Gosnell.
During a press conference last week, I spoke out against the grotesque discovery of more than 2,000 fetal remains in the home of the late Dr. Ulrich Klopfer, who performed abortions in South Bend, Fort Wayne, and Gary for decades. I called for a federal investigation into this deeply disturbing discovery. Protecting innocent life is more important now than ever.
To learn more, click here or on the image below.
Week in Review
For a glimpse of last week’s meetings and events, click here.
Social Media Recap
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