On Thursday, I was invited to the White House to witness President Trump sign an executive order requiring a plan to dismantle the Department of Education. The Department of Education has failed to deliver results for America's students as evidenced by historically low performance scores in our schools coupled with historically high funding levels. We must reduce the role of Washington bureaucrats and instead empower parents and students who know students' needs better. I look forward to continuing to work with President Trump and Secretary McMahon to empower students, families, and educators. To learn more about this effort to bolster outcomes, expand opportunity, and increase innovation, please read this op-ed.
On Tuesday, we celebrated National Agriculture Day to thank our farmers in Michigan and across the country for the work they do each day to feed our nation. I met with the Monroe County Farm Bureau to discuss issues impacting our farmers. I also had the chance to attend the Berrien County Farm Bureau's legislative luncheon and provide an update on efforts by House Republicans and the Trump administration to support farmers and lessen the regulatory burdens placed on farmers. Last week, the Trump administration announced that the EPA would revise the onerous Biden-era "Waters of the United States" (WOTUS) rule which placed unfair burdens on farmers and drove up the cost of business. We must reverse misguided regulations like these to provide our farmers with relief.
I enjoyed stopping by the FIRST Robotics competition at Columbia Central High School to see all the students who participated. FIRST Robotics helps prepare our youth to become the next generation of leaders in our community. It is always inspiring to see the innovation and ingenuity displayed by the students. Congratulations to all who participated in the competition!
Michigan has the 5th largest advanced manufacturing workforce in the country. I had the opportunity to tour multiple manufacturers in Michigan's 5th Congressional District and see the vital work they do to ensure America remains a world leader in manufacturing. I was able to visit Livonia Tool and Laser in Litchfield, Modineer in Niles, and Southern Michigan Rubber in Three Rivers. We discussed the importance of domestic manufacturing and the need to extend the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to promote economic growth. I will continue to advance policies that support our economy and bring manufacturing jobs back to the U.S.
My office is now accepting applications from high school students in Michigan’s 5th District to participate in the Congressional Art Competition. The winning piece of artwork will be displayed in the Cannon Tunnel to the U.S. Capitol, along with the winners from the other congressional districts across the country. If you are interested in submitting your artwork, please do so no later than April 18, 2025, at midnight.
For all the details regarding the Congressional Art Competition guidelines, click here. For answers to additional questions, please call my Jackson District Office at 517-780-9075. I look forward to receiving your submissions and wish all participants good luck!
