The Shadow
As the October district work period wraps up, it’s been great to be back home in the Valley. Last week, I hosted my annual Farm Tour, allowing me to meet with farmers throughout Virginia’s Sixth District. In a significant ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld Governor Youngkin’s executive order to remove non-citizens from Virginia’s voter rolls. Unfortunately, the policies of the Biden-Harris Administration have made homeownership out of reach for millions of Americans. On a brighter note, we celebrated National First Responders Day, honoring the sacrifices of our brave First Responders who keep our community safe. As always, I enjoyed meeting with constituents to discuss the important issues facing our local community. It’s truly an honor to represent our Commonwealth in Congress.
Hosting My Annual Farm Tour
Last week, I hosted my annual Farm Tour, visiting some remarkable farms across Virginia’s Sixth District. This two-day tour was an invaluable opportunity to connect directly with our farmers—the backbone of our community—and hear firsthand about the challenges they face.
I kicked off the first day at Delta Springs Farm in Mount Solon, where we discussed pressing issues affecting agriculture and witnessed innovative tools in action, including a crop-spraying drone. Next, I had the pleasure of visiting Harmony Harvest Farm in Weyers Cave, which specializes in growing cut flowers for nationwide shipment and local pickup. Remarkably, they are the only U.S. flower farm shipping fresh-cut flowers across the country, highlighting the unique diversity within our district, from flower growers to livestock farmers. I wrapped up the first day at McNett Farms, where Austin McNett shared insights about his first-generation farm that raises goats for local 4-H livestock shows—crucial events that teach our youth about agricultural education.
On the second day of the tour, I visited the Alson H. Smith Agricultural Research Center in Winchester. This center is vital for Virginia’s horticultural fruit industries, offering research, educational programs, and innovative tools that enhance sustainability and resilience among commercial producers. Next, I stopped by Glaize Apple Orchard, a fourth-generation orchard that produces premium fruit and cider between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains. Finally, we visited Gore’s Stephens City Meats, a family-owned meat processing business that has helped feed families in the Shenandoah Valley for 60 years.
Through these visits, I gained important firsthand insight into the daily needs and challenges our farmers and agriculture industry workers encounter. Hearing from them directly equips me to advocate more effectively for agricultural policies in Washington that truly benefit our community. Supporting our local farmers continues to be one of my top priorities.
SCOTUS Ruling is a Huge Win for Election Integrity
Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld Governor Youngkin’s executive order to remove non-citizens from our voter rolls in the Commonwealth. This significant ruling comes after previous decisions by a federal judge and a lower court that had allowed roughly 1,600 non-citizens back onto Virginia’s voter rolls. In response, Attorney General Jason Miyares took decisive action by filing an emergency motion with the U.S. Supreme Court, helping to keep our elections in Virginia as accurate as possible.
This executive order aims to update our voter rolls by removing individuals who self-identify as non-citizens and failed to verify their U.S. citizenship within 14 days of notification. This action is vital to maintaining electoral integrity; it helps prevent non-citizens from participating in elections and upholds the principle that only eligible voters should have a voice in our Republic. The recent Supreme Court ruling reinforces this order, highlighting the importance of a fair and transparent electoral process in Virginia.
Prices Skyrocketing, Homeownership Plummeting
Homeownership is slipping away from hardworking Americans due to the misguided policies of the Biden-Harris Administration. Under their leadership, we’ve seen inflation surge, interest rates soar, and the dream of owning a home become a distant reality for millions. In over 200 cities, the price of a starter home has skyrocketed to an astonishing $1 million, forcing families to give up on the hope of stable and affordable housing. Every family deserves a real chance at the American Dream, not the uphill struggle that this administration has created. Here in Virginia, the median home price is a staggering $413,000, making homeownership unattainable for many in our communities. These outrageous costs not only affect individuals and families but also jeopardize the strength of our neighborhoods.
That is why I have co-sponsored the Housing Promotes Livelihood and Ultimate Success Act of 2023. This crucial legislation addresses the housing crisis directly by tackling the issues contributing to housing instability. It also seeks to empower vulnerable populations by providing essential support services, including job training and rehabilitation treatment, making long-term housing more attainable. We must continue championing commonsense policies that ensure homeownership is possible for every hardworking American, restoring the dream of a stable and secure home for all families.
Celebrating National First Responders Day
Last week, we celebrated National First Responders Day to honor the extraordinary sacrifices and unwavering dedication of our First Responders—firefighters, police officers, paramedics, EMTs, corrections officers, and 911 dispatchers. Their relentless commitment on the front lines ensures the safety of our families and communities every day. Thank you for everything you do.
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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