America does not go to the Moon for nostalgia. We go because exploration is in our DNA, and the returns, in knowledge, in technology, and in national strength, are worth the effort.

What NASA learns from Artemis II will help validate the systems needed to return Americans to the surface of the Moon later this decade and, one day, send the first astronauts to Mars. And the work aboard this mission will contribute to research on the effects of deep space on the human body, helping inform future advances in medicine and human spaceflight. Every hard problem NASA solves in space has a way of finding its way back down to Earth.

The Apollo program gave us everything from memory foam to water filtration to the insulation that protects homes and hospitals today. Artemis will do the same.

I'm proud that Arkansas is playing a role in this historic mission. Ralph Carruth, an Arkansas native now retired near Hot Springs, spent more than four decades at NASA contributing to the systems behind the Artemis program. Arkansas suppliers also contributed to NASA’s Artemis program, including electrical cables and harnesses for the Orion spacecraft, a reminder that Arkansas innovation has had a hand in this mission from the beginning.

The people at NASA, the countless individuals working tirelessly to keep America leading the way, and our brave astronauts are true heroes. I am grateful for their courage, sacrifice, and vision, and for living in a country that always reaches for the stars.

Here's to a safe and historic mission, Artemis II!

I appreciated the opportunity to meet with Arkansas Adjutant General Chad Bridges and the Arkansas National Guard at Camp Robinson last week to discuss their priorities and future needs. We toured Chappell Armory, where state leadership has been consolidated, and saw how the Guard is organizing to operate more effectively.

We also talked about the importance of continuing to support key aircraft like the C-130 Hercules, which are essential for transportation and emergency response, and about the need to expand training opportunities to keep our troops prepared. The conversation also touched on ways to strengthen coordination between federal and state partners to ensure a strong, unified response to major disasters, including a potential earthquake in the New Madrid Seismic Zone.

I’m grateful to General Bridges for his leadership and for hosting a productive visit focused on keeping our Guard ready to serve Arkansas and our nation.

The cities of Benton and Bryant joined the Arkansas National Guard to give local communities the chance to gather in remembrance of the brave men and women who served in the Vietnam War.

The ceremony, held Monday in front of the Saline County Courthouse, marked the 51st anniversary of National Vietnam War Veterans Day.

Members of my district veterans team attended the ceremony, which featured several meaningful tributes, including the presentation of Quilts of Valor to local veterans, the placement of 592 small flags representing each Saline County Vietnam veteran, and the display of 10 large flags honoring those killed in action.

Ceremonies like these remind us to pay tribute to those who sacrificed and served our Nation.

Thanks to all who made this event possible: the Saline County Salute to Veterans Fund, Benton and Bryant Chambers of Commerce, First United Methodist Church-Benton, VFW Post 2256, D.A.R.-Provincia De La Sal Chapter and Saline Crossing Chapter, Never Forgotten Arkansas-Quilts of Valor, and Let Freedom Ring Quilts of Valor.

Last Sunday marked Palm Sunday and the beginning of Holy Week. Palm branches symbolize Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, where crowds welcomed him just days before his crucifixion. Today, on Good Friday, we solemnly commemorate that crucifixion and give thanks for His sacrifice, knowing that Easter Sunday's celebration of His resurrection is just two days away. It's the most sacred week of the Christian calendar, and a powerful time to reflect on the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Like many of you, I'm looking forward to spending time with family this weekend. From my family to yours, wishing you a blessed Holy Week and a joyful Easter!

I want to wish everyone in Arkansas and across the country a joyous and meaningful Passover. As the fight against antisemitism continues, I stand with our Jewish brothers and sisters. May this season of freedom bring peace, renewal, and hope. Chag Sameach!

April is National Financial Literacy Month, a wonderful opportunity to raise awareness about a topic near and dear to me: the importance of responsible financial decision-making and the tools available to help families succeed. As a former community banker, I have seen firsthand the dividends that financial literacy can pay.

Knowing how to budget and invest, understanding the importance of saving, and being prepared for financial challenges are skills that can make a meaningful difference in the lives of Arkansans.

It is never too early, or too late, to learn how to manage your finances and prepare for the future. There are resources across the district to help individuals and families build a solid financial foundation.

For a list of financial literacy resources, visit the Arkansas Financial Education Commission, or call my Little Rock office at (501) 324-5941.

Last week’s Trivia: Which U.S. president is the only one to have been awarded the Medal of Honor?  C) Theodore Roosevelt

Theodore Roosevelt earned the Medal of Honor for leading the famous charge up San Juan Hill during the Spanish-American War in 1898. More than a century later, in 2001, President Clinton posthumously awarded him the nation's highest military honor, making Roosevelt the only U.S. president to have received it.

39.9% of respondents answered correctly. (32.5% selected John F. Kennedy)

Kids born between January 2025 and December 2028 are eligible for a federal contribution into a “Trump Account.” More than 4 million Americans have already opened accounts, which will begin receiving funding starting the Fourth of July this year, so don’t delay.

This is also an opportunity for philanthropists to invest directly in the next generation, with leaders like Michael and Susan Dell and Ray and Barbara Dalio already stepping up to help fund these accounts. Through Treasury’s “50 State Challenge,” more private-sector leaders are being encouraged to get involved and support children and families across the country.

Families can sign their kids up for a Trump Account using the IRS Form 4547 as they file their taxes. To learn more, click HERE or call my Little Rock office at (501) 324-5941.

My office can arrange tours of the Capitol and many other sights in Washington, D.C., on behalf of you and your family during your stay. Please note: White House tours require Real IDs or other accepted forms of ID, such as a valid passport or U.S. military ID.

If you and your loved ones are planning to visit Washington, D.C. in the coming months, I recommend you reach out to my office to request tours as soon as possible HERE.

If you have any questions about your visit to Washington, D.C., please call my D.C. office at (202) 225-2506.