Weekly Columns and Op-Eds
This summer, I have spoken with constituents across Central Washington, and many are rightly frustrated with the way federal agencies manage public lands. Almost one-third of our state is managed by the federal government. From wildfires to wildlife habitat to public access, federal policy can hinder or help our communities.
Anyone who has spent time in Central Washington knows the Columbia River is the defining natural feature of our region. As the largest river in the Western Hemisphere that flows into the Pacific Ocean, it has long guided the way of life for people living in the Pacific Northwest.
Throughout the August district work period, I have traveled throughout all eight counties of Washington’s 4th District. I always get diverse questions from constituents on a range of topics, and I enjoy these conversations. I have heard from several constituents who shared their support for the dams on the Columbia and lower Snake rivers.
Watching the Olympics has been exciting for millions of Americans who root on their fellow citizens to see if years of grueling training will pay off on the world stage. For the athletes who worked to earn gold, silver, and bronze medals, we can imagine a wave of personal fulfillment and pride from representing our country.
Theodore Roosevelt, who championed the cause of conservation during his presidency, once said, “Conservation means development as much as it does protection.
Dallas. Baton Rouge. In those two cities, eight police officers lost their lives after being targeted and ambushed in two separate attacks. Our nation has been stunned as law enforcement has also been targeted in shootings in Philadelphia, in St. Joseph, Michigan, in Tennessee, in Missouri, and in Georgia. Two officers were shot in San Diego just last week.
Freedom of conscience and religious liberty have been bedrock principles of our republic since our founding.
I am a strong believer that the flurry of top-down rules from the federal government threatens job creation over the long-run rather than empowering individuals or moving our economy forward.
Imagine a national health care system that works for the people who require care: patients who are able to schedule appointments and be seen by a doctor of their choice for high-quality, life-saving care that does not break the bank.
During the Fourth of July holiday and as the world’s focus on the United Kingdom’s vote for “Brexit” to leave the European Union, we as Americans are reminded of our own decision to declare independence from Great Britain 240 years ago. The lesson we can take is that no matter the risk and the naysayers, a free people will not always choose security; because they long for freedom.