Weekly Columns and Op-Eds

Labor Day is a time-honored tradition where we as Americans recognize the hardworking men and women who are the backbone of our great nation. From the productive apple orchards of Central Washington and the constantly innovating Hanford Site, to the manufacturing plants and businesses large and small across the country, it is their skill and dedication that drives our economy and strengthens our communities.

The new school year is beginning for many, but before the bell rings, I want to address the increasing dangers we see from opioids in our schools. Fentanyl is sadly the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18-45, and it only takes a 2-milligram dose—the size of a grain of rice—to cause an overdose. As it becomes increasingly available, it is crucial for parents to understand the risks that their children are facing.

As the summer comes to a close and the new school year is looming, excited children are buying backpacks, going over their class schedules, and anticipating all the new things they are going to learn. But with the year beginning, I would be remiss if I did not discuss the elephant in the room—Washington’s education report card. 

This week starts the annual August recess in Congress, and while there is a pause in legislative activity, I will be working hard here in Central Washington. As we head into the dog days of summer, I want to give you a quick update on what I have been working on in Congress.

Our state is home to over 35,000 farms that generate more than $21 billion in revenue every year. That’s why last week I hit the road to hear from producers throughout Central Washington about the challenges they are facing and what I can do in Congress to help.

In Washington State, there are over 509,700 veterans, and it is imperative they have the support of a grateful nation and the care promised to them by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). We are forever indebted to our veterans, and part of this debt includes ensuring that their healthcare benefits work for them, and currently, they do not.

The CCP’s blend of geopolitics and corruption violates international law and has caused immense suffering in Central Washington, the United States, and across the globe. We cannot allow an adversarial nation with a vested interest in destabilizing our nation to continue their efforts unchallenged.