August in OK-05
Each year, Congress recesses for the month of August. During Congress’ early years, the Capitol didn’t have air conditioning, which caused Members to leave during the summer months to escape the heat in Washington. Through many years of varying lengths of summer recess, in 1970, Congress mandated this as part of the Legislative Reorganization Act. Today, August recess continues to be a regular feature of the Congressional schedule because it’s critical for Members spend time in their districts and engage with their constituents. During this month, I have taken advantage of my time spent in Oklahoma’s Fifth Congressional District to directly talk to those most impacted by events in Washington.
The Fifth District is home to many courageous and selfless servicemembers, veterans, and military families. Therefore, I am honored to represent them through my time on the House Armed Services Committee. I have had the opportunity to visit Tinker Air Force base a few times this August for an update on the B-52 wing and to attend the Change of Command Ceremony. I also visited the Edmond Armory and the Military Entrance Processing Station for their enlistment ceremony. Finally, I hosted our Veteran Task Force meeting to discuss issues facing our veterans in the district. I am so grateful for the brave Oklahomans – past, present, and future – who have dedicated themselves to serving our nation. Those in our district who work at Tinker play a big role in our nation’s security, and I want to make sure their voices are heard in Congress.
As we all know, gas prices have been skyrocketing across the country and in our home state. Last week, I visited a Love’s gas station to talk with people in our community about how the cost of gas is affecting their day-to-day lives. I also participated in a panel discussion with Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) and oil and gas industry leaders. We had a great discussion on the importance of American energy independence and its direct correlation on our national security. Restoring domestic energy production and lowering costs for Oklahomans remains a focus of mine.
Finally, I visited organizations focused on improving the well-being of our community. I toured the Community Market of Pottawatomie County, which is a food bank that follows a client choice model so families and individuals can select foods they enjoy. I was also able to hear about Integris’ new “Hospital at Home” program that provides full level hospital care in patients’ homes. Additionally, with school starting this month, I met with the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation to hear more about what they are doing to prepare for this school year. It’s inspiring to have so many organizations within the Fifth District that enrich our community and are committed to serving others. I will continue to find ways to support their efforts in Congress.
As always, I really value my time at home because I hear directly from those I represent. Seeing and discussing issues going on in our district helps me better serve the people of Oklahoma’s Fifth by putting what I learn into action when I’m back in Washington.