News from Rep. Bost

The Bost Bulletin

Dear Friend,

The big story in Washington last week was the negotiations on funding the government. I believe Congress had a golden opportunity to implement serious spending cuts and border security in the final spending bill that passed the House. However, I had no choice but to vote against a Continuing Resolution yesterday to fund the government for the next 45 days because it was stripped of any spending reforms or border security measures. If we don’t fix these problems now, what shape is this country going to be in when we leave it to our children and grandchildren?

Imposing Accountability for Ukraine Spending

At a time when we're fighting to restore fiscal sanity here at home, we can't continue sending hundreds of millions of dollars to Ukraine with little accountability for how the money's spent. The needs of the American people must come first. For that reason, I voted to cut security assistance to Ukraine in the Defense Appropriations bill.

I believe in fiercely defending America's national security interests at home and abroad. We must stand firm against our adversaries' aggression; but we must do so smartly, demanding transparency for every penny of taxpayer money. If, as the world's leading superpower, we have to make future investments to protect our national security overseas, there must be accountability and a clear plan for how that money will be spent.

I also cosponsored the Define the Mission Act last week to provide transparency for how American taxpayer dollars are used in Ukraine. The legislation would require the president to submit to Congress a comprehensive plan for where our money's going and how it supports U.S. national security interests.

Fighting the Green New Deal

Southern Illinoisans have had enough of Green New Deal mandates. I'm proud that the House approved my amendment last week to stop Biden's Agriculture Department from using our taxpayer dollars to convert their fleet of cars and trucks to costlier electric vehicles. The USDA should be empowering our farmers and producers, not selling them out to please environmental activists.

Building the Wall

Earlier this year I traveled to Eagle Pass, Texas to meet with border agents and review security measures firsthand. What I saw was a dedicated security force that's overworked and undermanned because of the Biden administration's failed border policies. Just last weekend there were 4,000 migrant encounters at Eagle Pass alone, according to Fox News. Congress must secure the border and finish the wall NOW.

Supporting Our Firefighters

As one of the few former firefighters in Congress, it’s a very personal mission for me to ensure our firefighters receive the help they need to continue their life saving work. My role as co-chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus provides an important platform to see that mission through. I was proud to support the Assistance to Firefighters Grants and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response programs by sponsoring an amendment to the Homeland Security Appropriations bill last week to make sure our firefighters have the safe and effective facilities, gear, staff, and support they need to do their jobs and keep their communities safe.

Welcoming the Southern Illinois Honor Flight

Last week I had the honor of welcoming another Southern Illinois Honor Flight to Washington. It’s always an incredible experience to share part of the day with these great Americans as they visit the military memorials in our nation’s capital.

National Suicide Prevention Month

Seventeen veterans are still lost to suicide every single day. September was National Suicide Prevention month, and I recently took to the House floor to remind those who need help that you are not alone. If you or a veteran you know is having thoughts of suicide, call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 and press 1 to receive free, confidential support.

Closely Monitoring a Tragedy in Effingham County

Friday night a semitruck carrying toxic chemicals overturned in an accident near Teutopolis causing several casualties and extensive evacuations. I've been in close contact with the Effingham County board chairman and the sheriff, as well as the mayor of Teutopolis to offer any help my office can provide. This is an ongoing situation, but we’re quickly learning the tragic consequences for people in the area. Tracy and I are keeping the families affected by this disaster in our prayers.

To stay updated on the work I am doing, make sure you follow me on Facebook or Twitter. And if you would like to receive these email updates, make sure you sign up for my newsletter here.

- Mike