(Rep. Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

As the 2024 Summer Paralympic Games come to a close this week and we reminisce on the 2024 Summer Olympic Games, it's impossible not to feel a sense of pride for Team USA and the athletes who have shined on the global stage. The Olympics are an incredible testament to the spirit of competition athletes worldwide love about their respective sports. Regardless of whether an athlete took home a medal this summer, their presence at the games was a resounding representation of years of training, perseverance, and dedication. 

 Arkansans should be very proud following this year's Olympics and Paralympics. Our state was well-represented by a diverse group of athletes, from track & field to swimming to mountain biking and more. We had several athletes from Arkansas and many more from out of state who chose to complete their professional training in the Natural State. 

 Arkansas athletes have truly shone in the 2024 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games. They brought home an impressive five gold medals, three silver, and one bronze at the Olympics and excelled at the Paralympic Games with 2 gold, 2 silver, and 2 bronze medals. Notably, from Arkansas' Fourth Congressional District, Kaitlin Bounds, a Russellville Native and Arkansas Tech Alumna, secured 6th place in the 1500m race at the Paralympics, adding to our state's glory!

 Undoubtedly, this was an exciting year for Team USA and Arkansans at the Paris games. I can't help but look forward with great anticipation to what the 2028 Summer Olympics, which will be hosted right here in the US, has in store!