I recently voiced my support for a coalition of family and faith-based organizations calling on Congress to eliminate marriage penalties embedded in federal welfare programs. These policies can financially punish couples for choosing to marry and, in some cases, cost families tens of thousands of dollars simply for forming stable households.

The coalition’s letter reinforces what I’ve been saying for years: federal policy should support strong families, not undermine them. Research consistently shows that children do better when raised in stable, married households, yet current welfare rules too often discourage marriage and contribute to long-term dependency.

The letter also highlights concerns about child safety. Children raised in unstable homes face higher risks of abuse and neglect, underscoring why encouraging strong family formation is not just an economic issue, but a matter of protecting children and strengthening communities.

I’ve worked across the aisle to address this problem, including introducing the bipartisan Student Loan Marriage Penalty Elimination Act, because ending marriage penalties should not be a partisan issue. With budget reconciliation approaching, Congress has a real opportunity to fix these policies and ensure the federal government stops penalizing Americans for forming stable families.

📖 Read the coalition letter HERE
📖 Read the full press release HERE

I am devastated by the passing of my dear friend and close colleague, Congressman Doug LaMalfa. Doug was kind-hearted, steadfast in his principles, and a true patriot who loved this country deeply.

I saw his unwavering dedication firsthand through our work together in the Western Caucus, where he fought tirelessly to protect our natural resources and preserve the great beauty of our nation for future generations. His leadership, integrity, and friendship will be deeply missed.

My prayers are with his wife, Jill, and his children during this unimaginable time.

My statement on the targeted U.S. operation to remove Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro—an important victory in the fight against international drug trafficking and narco-terrorism tied to his regime:

Sunday is National Milk Day! Wisconsin dairy farmers work long hours every day to provide families with safe, affordable, high-quality milk. Their dedication supports local jobs, strengthens rural communities, and keeps America’s Dairyland strong. I’m proud to represent them in Congress and will always stand up for our farmers.

Sunday is National Human Trafficking Day, a time to raise awareness, honor survivors, and recommit to fighting this horrific crime. No one should ever be bought or sold, and we must continue supporting law enforcement and communities working to stop trafficking.

I was honored to meet with Rabbi Ulman of Chabad Bondi and Ahmed Al-Ahmed, whose extraordinary courage saved lives when he tackled one of the gunmen during the horrific antisemitic attack at Bondi Beach in Australia. The respect and friendship between them is a powerful reminder that peace is possible, even in the face of hatred.