Last week, House Republicans took decisive action to rebuild American military strength. The House passed the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which authorizes $1.15 trillion for our national defense. The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.
I was especially glad to see the NDAA close a specific vulnerability I have been working to fix. My amendment, drawn from my Servicemember Payment Data Privacy and Security Act, directs the Department of War to remove Chinese-owned and operated point-of-sale systems from its facilities. These systems process the personal and financial data of the men and women who serve our country, and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) should have no access to it. Removing this hardware is a commonsense step that closes off a real avenue for exposure and infiltration.
This year’s NDAA also prioritizes military readiness and increases investment in the technology, artificial intelligence, and weapons innovation needed to defend our Nation against adversaries such as the CCP. This legislation gives our armed forces what they need to deter aggression and carry out President Trump’s peace through strength agenda.
Voted to Restore Trust in the Elected Officials
The House of Representatives passed the Stop Insider Trading Act last week by a vote of 232-198. As an original co-sponsor, I was proud to support this legislation. This is important ethics reform, and a meaningful step toward restoring the American people’s trust in their elected officials.
The Stop Insider Trading Act prohibits Members of Congress, their spouses and their dependent children from purchasing individual stocks while in office. It also requires a member to file public notice between seven and fourteen days before selling a covered investment, so that the public can see the transaction in advance rather than long afterward. Members who break the rule face real penalties: the supervising ethics office must impose a fee of either $2,000 or 10 percent of the value of the transaction, whichever is greater, plus any net gain realized on the investment.
The American people deserve to know that their Representatives are working for them and not for their own portfolios. Public service is a trust, not a business opportunity. When that trust erodes, it undermines confidence in every institution of our government.
Despite broad public support for a congressional stock trading ban, only 13 Democrats voted for this bill. I believe this legislation is a good path toward restoring the trust and faith of the American people in their elected representatives. It is unfortunate that not all my colleagues across the aisle could support it and instead chose to place partisan politics over reasonable and responsible governance.
Codified President Trump’s Successful Border Policies
Last week, I voted to advance the Permanent Trump Secure Border Act through the House Judiciary Committee, moving the legislation to the full House for consideration. This is a significant win for the American people and for the safety of our communities. The bill would permanently codify key Trump Administration border security policies, strengthen border enforcement, and enhance public safety. By making these measures permanent, the legislation aims to bolster border security and help keep Americans safe from criminal illegal aliens.
Key provisions of this bill include tighter limits on asylum and parole eligibility, an end to “catch and release” by requiring most illegal aliens to be detained or returned while their cases are pending, and increased penalties for visa overstays.
The bill also calls for modernized facilities, expanded staffing, and new surveillance technology for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
This bill is clear evidence that House Republicans are delivering on our promises to secure the border and put American families first.
Prevented a Democrat Shutdown
Republicans have taken responsible action to prevent another needless government shutdown. Last week, the House passed a clean continuing resolution that would keep the government funded through December. A government shutdown is costly for hard-working families, but Democrats have chosen to put their radical agenda and political theater over the American people. This Continuing Resolution preserves stability for families, communities, and the federal workers and service members who depend on timely paychecks. The House has done its job with months to spare. Now the Senate must do the same.
While most Democrats opposed the measure, Republicans supported its passage to help ensure the federal government remains open and continues operating without interruption. Preventing a government shutdown is an essential responsibility of Congress. This piece of legislation ensures dependability, cooperation, and stability within our nation.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your Congressman. If my office can ever be of assistance, please contact my Washington office at (202) 225-5431.
