Weekly Columns

Last week, the American people saw Democracy at work. Although it can be messy sometimes, that is how our nation’s founders intended Congress to function. We emerged with a strong Speaker of the House and a rules package without concessions, but with great conservative wins. I voted each time for Kevin McCarthy because he is best prepared to lead the Republican majority. Oklahomans elected me to provide a check and balance on the Biden Administration and to find solutions to the numerous problems facing our nation, and I’m committed to doing just that.

As this year comes to an end, I’ve taken time to reflect on my first term in the United States Congress. Two years ago, I came to Washington as the Freshman Class President eager to learn and lead. Although, we were in the minority, and under different circumstances due to COVID-19 shutdowns and protocols, it’s been exciting to witness the People’s House slowly come back to life. I’ve been able to have productive constituent meetings in Washington while also visiting dozens of organizations around Oklahoma’s Fifth District.

The most wonderful time of the year is in full swing. Americans across the country are last minute gift shopping, cooking festive meals, and traveling to visit family. Although this is typically a joyous and busy time for many, it’s important to pause and remember the true meaning of Christmas.

Last week, the House passed the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act. This is the single most important piece of legislation to come out of the Armed Services committees annually. This year’s legislation is named after Senator Inhofe, in honor of his tremendous legacy of serving on this committee and advocating for our servicemembers and the safety and security of our nation. The House and Senate both passed their respective versions earlier this year, and lawmakers have since been discussing the differences.

As we approach the end of the year, which means the end of the 117^th Congress, both the House and Senate are left with major pieces of legislative work incomplete. Democrats control the process in both the House and Senate, and one-party rule has led us to this stalemate.

Our already struggling economy may face more challenges this holiday season due to a potential railroad strike. As you may know, in September, freight rail companies and unions formed a deal with the help of the Biden Administration. The deal then went to the unions’ membership for negotiations, which has been going on for the last three months. Recently, The International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers, which represents about 30% of the freight rail workforce rejected the latest agreement.

Thanksgiving serves as a time to reflect on what matters most, by gathering with loved ones and celebrating the blessings of the last year. It also reminds us of how fortunate we are to live in the United States – a country built on freedom and opportunity. This sentiment was furthered in 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a holiday, using it as a step toward reuniting our country during the hardships of the Civil War. Thanksgiving is a time to put our differences aside and reflect on our American traditions.

Our economy runs on diesel. It’s used to fuel trucks, ships, trains, and other forms of transportation and construction machinery that are crucial to a functioning supply chain. It allows truckers and farmers to do their critical job, keeping food on shelves and delivering daily necessities to American families. Unfortunately, Biden’s rush to implement his green agenda has jeopardized our economic stability yet again. Diesel prices are nearly 50% higher than this time last year and our reserves are at the lowest level since 1951.