Rep. Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

 It is impossible to reflect upon the past year – and the end of the 118th Congress – without first speaking of what a tremendous honor it is to serve the Fourth Congressional District of Arkansas. An honor that cannot be taken lightly or for granted.

 Effective legislating requires an accurate assessment of the current national climate in order to propose common sense, thoughtful solutions with future success in mind. The 118th Congress was marked by several notable legislative successes which will greatly benefit the Fourth District – from aiding veterans who sacrificed to protect our freedoms to promoting the value of outdoor recreation in the Natural State and across the country, and more.

 As we look ahead at the opportunity the 119th Congress holds, House Republicans must be mindful of the mandate we have been given by the American public to work with the Senate and President to renew a flourishing economy, secure our borders, and restore American energy dominance – all of which are critical to giving hard working American citizens the government they deserve and have demanded.

 Many Americans continue to feel the pressure of rising costs, wondering how they will be able to afford to feed their families, pay medical bills, or even keep their homes warm – issues no one should face. For years, we have heard from countless Arkansans who have been burdened by record inflation. House Republicans will rein in reckless government spending to ease this unnecessary pressure. Current economic policies have failed the American people, and it will be a priority to work alongside fellow Members of Congress to pass common-sense legislation that lowers costs for American families, eases pressures due to high inflation, and restores the American economy.

 For too long, the failure to enforce border laws and prevent bad actors from crossing our borders have created a massive threat to our national security. This unprecedented humanitarian crisis at the southern border has created a ripple effect of problems for everything from our economy to ecological issues not only within border states, but states across the country like Arkansas. The increase in drug trafficking and human trafficking at the southern border has gone on long enough, and it’s time to put a firm and swift end to these dangerous issues. Earlier in the 118th Congress, we passed H.R. 2, The Secure Border Act of 2023, which was created to bolster the capabilities of our border patrol agents, rein in illegal immigration, and ensure our national security. It’s time to resume border wall construction, modernize and enhance border security technology, and many more actionable items to keep the American people safe. Supporting legislation accomplishing these goals in the 119th Congress will remain a top priority.

 With Republican control of the House, Senate, and White House, House Republicans look forward to getting to work in January on important legislation that will actually put Americans first. It remains true that energy security is national security. American energy is the cleanest, safest, and most ethically-sourced on earth. When we aren’t producing domestically, we only further support our adversaries and create direct negative impacts on our environment, local communities, and the Americans who are left holding the check for policies which continue to raise already burdensome costs. Next Congress, we must focus on crafting legislation that supports American energy dominance, reduces regulatory burdens, and unleashes American energy.

 It’s time to bring reason and responsibility back to Washington. In the 119th Congress, Americans and Arkansans must come first, and it’s an honor to have the opportunity to do so while proudly serving the Fourth District of Arkansas.