Weekly Columns and Op-Eds

In Central Washington, we understand that healthy forests are the true key to wildfire prevention. Each summer, we come face-to-face with the threat wildfires pose to our land, our communities, and our health.

President Trump recently delivered his third State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress. The State of the Union is traditionally a unifying event, where the President speaks of his vision for the future of our country.

Article II of our Constitution grants the President of the United States the role of Commander in Chief of our military. While Congress holds the sole authority to declare war on another country, the Commander in Chief is obligated to defend the United States in cases of imminent threat or attack.

When we look around Central Washington, it is hard to miss the thousands of acres of wine grapes that cascade across our rolling hills and valleys. In fact, there were more than 59,000 acres and nearly 70 varieties of wine grapes planted last year.

In Central Washington, we understand how reliant our economy is on international trade. From our flourishing agriculture industry to our small business and manufacturers, we all feel the effects of strong trade agreements with our global partners.

As we know all-too-well in Central Washington, Endangered Species Act (ESA) listing and delisting decisions have huge, lasting impacts on local communities and environments.

As we look forward to 2020, it is important to reflect on the accomplishments we achieved in 2019. I am proudly working to put Central Washington's priorities first, and it is truly a privilege to represent our District in Congress.

Impeachment is one of the most serious responsibilities afforded to Congress, and that sobering responsibility has not been lost on me. The people of Central Washington sent me to our nation's capital to represent them, and I believe – when it comes to charging a President with the articles of impeachment – Members must focus on the facts presented.