The Shadow
It was a productive week back home in the Sixth District where I had the honor of meeting with folks in Winchester and Roanoke to learn more about the positive resources they’re providing to support our local communities. These conversations are a vital part of my work to ensure I stay connected with the needs and priorities of those I represent. On the national front, President Trump secured a historic $1.35 trillion trade deal with the European Union focused on energy and military equipment, an agreement that will strengthen our economy and bolster national security. We also received encouraging news with strong second quarter economic expectations. The Department of Government Efficiency recently identified $199 billion in potential savings, which breaks down to about $1,236 per taxpayer. At a time when Washington continues to spend beyond its means, this type of oversight is essential to restoring fiscal discipline and protecting taxpayers. Furthermore, my office remains committed to helping constituents navigate federal agencies; just this week, my team resolved a case for a constituent facing a delay with the Bureau of Fiscal Services. This week, we also recognize two holidays that honor our Nation’s heroes: the 235th birthday of the U.S. Coast Guard and National Purple Heart Day. We honor the brave men and women who serve our country, protect our shores, and have made great sacrifices in defense of our freedoms. As we head into another week, I’ll continue listening to your concerns and working every day to move our communities and our country forward.
Trump Secures Historic UK Trade Deal
President Trump’s new trade agreement with the United Kingdom (UK) is a strong step forward for American workers, farmers, and small businesses, especially here in Virginia. For far too long, our producers have faced unfair barriers overseas. This deal finally levels the playing field and opens the door for more American-made goods to reach the global market.
Our farmers, particularly in communities like the Sixth District, will benefit from increased access to export their products. That means more opportunity, more growth, and more support for the hardworking families who feed and fuel this country. Our manufacturers will also see a boost as this historic deal works to safeguard jobs here at home.
In addition, the agreement also secures critical supply chains for things like aerospace and pharmaceuticals, helping lower costs and protect our economy from future disruptions. This historic deal ensures that both sides, the United States and the UK, are playing by the same rules. This is what America First trade policy looks like: real results that put our people first and benefit our communities across the country.
GDP Rising, Beating Expectations
The latest economic numbers show that our country is moving in the right direction under President Trump’s leadership. In the second quarter, the economy grew by a strong 3.0%, far surpassing expectations of 2.3% and giving American families reason to feel more confident about the future. Consumer spending rose by 1.4%, showing that families are able to spend more on everyday needs.
Business investment rose again in the second quarter by 1.9%, showing strong confidence in our economy from industry. That is a significant improvement from where we were just months ago under the Biden Administration, and it reflects the shift in direction under pro-growth leadership. This steady progress means more jobs, stable prices, and a stronger future for working families, and I will continue supporting policies in Washington that work to make life more affordable for every hardworking American.
Reining in Wasted Taxpayer Dollars
The Department of Government Efficiency has done an outstanding job exposing and eliminating wasteful government spending. Their latest findings show $199 billion in potential savings which breaks down to about $1,236 per taxpayer. At a time when Washington is spending money we don’t have, this kind of oversight is critical. Every dollar saved is a step toward a balanced budget.
This is how we protect taxpayers and restore fiscal sanity. This isn’t about cutting essential services, it’s about cutting the waste. Families across the Sixth District have to live within their means, and the federal government should too.
These savings can help us rein in inflation, reduce our debt burden, and prioritize what truly matters our national security, veterans, and border security. Wasteful spending fuels Washington’s broken habits, and we need to break the cycle. I’ll continue supporting efforts like DOGE’s to shine a light on where taxpayer dollars are going. This is exactly how we begin to get our country back on track.
Casework Highlight
In May a constituent from Frederick County had been stuck in a year-and-a-half-long effort to settle a federal estate account. Acting as the executor, she had been told the delay was with the Bureau of Fiscal Services, but despite repeated attempts, the matter remained unresolved.
That changed on May 21 when she walked into my Winchester district office with the paperwork in hand. On her behalf, one of my staff members submitted a formal inquiry the same day. Just eight days later, on May 29, the full balance of $141,450 was deposited into the estate’s account.
A problem that had dragged on for over a year was resolved in just over a week thanks to the quick and effective work of one of my staff members. If you ever run into troubles with a federal agency, my district office nearest to you is always there to help.
Celebrating the Coast Guard’s 235th Birthday
This week marks the 235th birthday of the U.S. Coast Guard. For over two centuries, these brave men and women have protected our waters, safeguarded our shores, and defended our Nation as a vital defense force. Their unwavering service and sacrifice ensure the safety of our ports, support maritime commerce, and uphold the rule of law at sea. We thank the Coast Guard for their steadfast dedication to our country.
Honoring Purple Heart Day
This week marks National Purple Heart Day. I join millions of Americans as we take a moment to honor our heroic veterans who have fought for our freedoms and were either wounded or paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our great Nation and American values. Their courage in the face of danger and unwavering commitment to duty serves as a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom. May we never take their sacrifices for granted. We thank you and we salute you.
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.
For the latest updates from Washington and across the Sixth District, please follow my Facebook and Twitter pages.
