Some of the images and videos showing devastation from Helene are hard to fathom. I've been in touch with a number of my colleagues from affected areas and we continue to pray for the safety of citizens and first responders. Last week, the House passed $20 billion in funding, immediately available for disaster relief. Sadly, It's becoming increasingly clear that the Biden-Harris administration did not adequately prepared. Please know I will continue to monitor the situation and highlight the needs based on my conversations with colleagues on the ground.
For those looking to find ways to help, Rep. Chuck Edwards, my colleague and friend from one of the worst hit areas launched this page to concentrate volunteer efforts: https://edwards.house.gov/helpWNC.
Staggering Numbers from ICE
Recently released reports show as of July, there were 425,432 convicted criminals on U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) national docket, including 13,099 noncitizens who have been criminally convicted of murder. The House passed H.R. 2, the strongest border security bill in history but Chuck Schumer and Biden-Harris administration have refused to even let the Senate vote on it. Please know I remain committed to securing our borders and protecting our communities from this crisis.
Supporting Law Enforcement
On Monday, I had the opportunity to sit down with Jackson County Sheriff Gary Schuette to hear more about the vital work the Sheriff’s Department does to keep our community safe. These heroes deserve our utmost respect for the sacrifices they make each day to protect our community. Please know that I will always support law enforcement officers and ensure they have the necessary resources and support.
This week, we celebrated Manufacturing day and I had the opportunity to tour Adrian Steel and PlaneWave Instruments and discuss the essential role manufacturing plays in our country’s economic growth and stability. I am proud to support these manufacturing companies, which are the backbone of Michigan’s 5th Congressional District, providing critical materials and good-paying jobs to our community.
Sue and I had a great time seeing everyone at the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Adrian this past weekend. We are extremely grateful to all the dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to make an impact here in our community. Alzheimer’s affects 203,000 people aged 65 and older in Michigan. As a member of the Congressional Alzheimer’s Caucus, I remain committed to ending this debilitating disease which has a tremendous mental, physical, and financial toll on patients and caregivers.
Reminder: Upcoming Service Academy Nomination Deadline
If you know a student interested in applying to a service academy, the deadline to apply with my Office is October 15.
