House Republicans are back to work on behalf of the American people and continuing to address the damage that the Biden Administration’s agenda has inflicted on our families. Following the election of Congressman Mike Johnson as the 56th Speaker of the House last week, we immediately passed legislation that demonstrates our unwavering commitment to our democratic ally, Israel, as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas.
Additionally, we passed legislation that provides critical funding to enhance our energy security, strengthen our national security, and bolster our economic competitiveness. We also honored our Nation’s deployed servicemembers and their families for their sacrifices. Under the leadership of Speaker Johnson, House Republicans have renewed our commitment to advancing conservative priorities and commonsense policies that will get America back on track.
With a New Speaker of the House Elected, It’s Time to Get Back to Work
This past week, the 118th Congress elected Congressman Mike Johnson (R-LA-04) as the 56th Speaker of the House of Representatives. Though I initially supported Congressman Jim Jordan of Ohio before he withdrew, our House Republican Conference is united behind Speaker Johnson. Having served with him for years on the House Judiciary Committee, I know that he is a strong leader with a proven track record of defending the Constitution and upholding the values of faith, family, and freedom that we value in Virginia’s Sixth District.
Under Speaker Johnson’s leadership, the House is already getting back to work for the American people. House Republicans are committed to advancing a conservative agenda that combats the reckless policies of the Biden Administration under which families are suffering, and we look forward to achieving those goals over the next several months.
Strengthening America’s Energy and National Security
Since he took his oath of office, President Biden has waged a war on American energy, which has resulted in skyrocketing costs for families. But instead of reversing his failing policies, Biden sold off 180 million barrels from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) to temporarily lower gas prices before the midterm elections last year, draining our emergency energy supply to its lowest level since the 1980s and putting our national security at risk.
House Republicans won’t allow President Biden to continue to risk our national security for his political gain. That is why this week, we passed the Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024 (H.R. 4394). This legislation invests in American energy, supports our nuclear stockpile, ends the Administration’s overreaching new WOTUS rule, and cuts billions in radical Green New Deal policies. Rest assured, we will continue working to pass individual spending bills that responsibly fund the government, rein in out-of-control spending, and serve the best interests of the American people.
Standing United With Israel
On October 7, the Iran-backed terrorist organization Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, killing over 1,400 people and taking hundreds more hostage – making it the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. In addition to the tragic death of Israelis, at least 32 Americans were killed in the attacks, and an unknown number are being held hostage.
It is our responsibility as Members of Congress to stand united with our greatest democratic ally in the Middle East. That is why the House passed legislation that reaffirms the United States’ support of Israel and its right to defend itself during this conflict and condemns the evil, heinous acts of Hamas.
National Day of the Deployed
In recognition of National Day of the Deployed, we paused and honored our Nation’s heroes who stand in the gap so others will not have to. It is because of their sacrifice and service that we can enjoy our freedoms and our way of life. May God bless all our men and women in uniform, their families, and our Veterans for their dedication to our great 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.
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