The Shadow
Last week, House Republicans made strides in addressing critical issues, including a wargame exercise by the China Select Committee to counter CCP aggression as well as legislation providing tax relief for American hostages while cutting tax breaks for terrorism supporters. Also, justice was served for Laken Riley, a victim of an illegal migrant tragedy. On a brighter note, we celebrated American Education Week and recognized the incredible impact of our teachers and Rural Health Day, where we celebrated healthcare professionals in our local communities. As always, It was a privilege to meet with Virginians to discuss building a brighter future for our children. Rest assured, I will remain committed to collaborating with my Washington colleagues to drive common-sense policies that put the needs of all Americans first.
China Select Committee Wargame Exercise
Recently, the China Select Committee conducted a wargame exercise to gain insight into the tactics the CCP would use in an attack on Taiwan. These crucial exercises are key to identifying strategic challenges and opportunities in the Pacific. By understanding these dynamics, we can develop effective policies that ensure we stand firm against Chinese aggression. These exercises revealed how far the CCP will go to undermine our nation’s security and global stability. With Beijing ramping up its aggression, we must act decisively to defend our interests and allies. Standing strong in the face of these threats is necessary for preserving freedom in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
Providing Tax Relief for Hostages and Accountability for Terrorist Supporters
House Republicans took a decisive stand in support of Americans who are currently held hostage around the world. 46 innocent Americans are being held hostage, and under current U.S. tax law, these individuals will face tax penalties that accrue interest after one year. This is a significant flaw in our system and is unacceptable, as it forces hostages to worry about taxes instead of focusing on reuniting with their families when they return home.
Additionally, some U.S. tax-exempt organizations have been found to support terrorist groups like Hamas. Current law only suspends tax-exempt status for organizations that are officially designated as terrorist groups and does nothing to address those aiding them. This alarming loophole allows supporters of terrorism to retain tax breaks while hostages face financial burdens.
To address these discrepancies in our federal tax code, House Republicans passed the Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act. This critical legislation addresses the glaring issues in our current system by eliminating IRS penalties for wrongfully detained Americans and revoking the tax-exempt status of nonprofits that support terrorist groups like Hamas. This legislation sends a clear message that we will not tolerate any support for terrorist organizations.
Laken Riley’s Killer Taxpayer Funded Flight
Justice was served for Laken Riley, a 22-year-old American college student who was tragically killed earlier this year while jogging in Georgia. Her killer, an illegal immigrant, exploited the left’s open border policies to enter the United States. A shocking article from the Daily Mailrevealed that officials in New York City, which is a sanctuary city, funded the flight that brought the killer to Athens, Georgia. This tragic situation underscores how sanctuary cities affect not only their local residents but also jeopardize the lives of every American citizen.
Instead of securing the border, the left has pushed a radical open-border agenda for the past four years, prioritizing illegal immigrants over public safety. Americans deserve an administration that places safety as a top priority. Under President Trump and Border Czar Tom Homan, we will hold sanctuary cities accountable for the consequences of their failed immigration policies. The border crisis is not just a political issue; it’s a humanitarian crisis. It is long overdue that we hold accountable those who pushed the weak policies that caused this crisis, or we risk more innocent Americans being taken too soon.
Honoring American Education Week
Last week, marked American Education Week, we took time to honor the incredible teachers, educators, and staff in Virginia’s Sixth District and across the nation. Their hard work and dedication shape our future leaders, and we should take action in the 119th-Congress to transfer power away from Washington bureaucrats and empower parents and local leaders to make education decisions about our children’s futures.
Celebrating Rural Health Day
Last Thursday, we recognized Rural Health Day; we applaud our incredible healthcare professionals and dedicated hospitals serving our rural communities, as these heroes work tirelessly to provide critical care while facing unique challenges. We must continue to work to expand access to quality health care in rural Districts like ours.
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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