The Bost Bulletin

Dear Friend,

It’s been a busy week in Southern Illinois, as the House is in the middle of a 10-day district work period. I’ve traveled across the district, from the Metro East region, to Effingham and points north, and back down towards the southern part of IL-12. I appreciate so much hearing from my constituents at all my stops along the way because it helps ensure that I’m always connected to the needs and values of the people I represent.

Grading Biden's Student Loan Giveaway

In 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the Biden Administration’s effort to forgive hundreds of billions of dollars in student loans was unconstitutional. However, the Biden Administration this week is authorizing debt relief to nearly 153,000 additional borrowers. Biden’s scheme was estimated to cost American taxpayers $500 billion. This latest round of debt cancellation will cost $1.2 billion alone.

The 87% of taxpayers who didn’t go to college or already paid off their loans through hard work and making a living shouldn’t have to pay for someone else’s decision to go to college. That is why I voted to denounce and derail this costly giveaway. I support people who are looking to further their education or hone their skills. I support efforts to make college more accessible. But with the decision to go to college comes the personal responsibility to pay for your loans.

Facing the Impact of Bidenomics

According to recent surveys, one in eight retirees plan on returning to work this year thanks to high prices and shrinking savings. Bidenomics is crushing America’s working class, and the reckless spending by this administration is keeping inflation high. We must reign in government spending and reduce inflation.

Seeing Red Because of the Green New Deal

The liberals and D.C. bureaucrats continue to try and push Big Government mandates on Americans, all in a push for their Green New Deal agenda. In California, the bastion of liberal climate ideology, we are seeing just how costly that agenda is: utility costs have skyrocketed – as much as 127% – due to the state’s environmental policies. I have cosponsored and voted for the CARS Act, which would put an end to the EPA electric vehicle mandate. And I have supported legislation like the Lower Energy Costs Act, which would unleash American energy and drive costs down for hardworking families.

Touring Draxxon Manufacturing

I toured Draxxon Manufacturing in McLeansboro, an innovative and growing Southern Illinois company that manufactures drones, vehicles and equipment for law enforcement, emergency personnel, military, and security entities. The work they’re doing is amazing, including the construction of Unmanned Aerial Systems Command Vehicles to assist in emergencies.

Visiting the Regional International Union of Elevator Constructors Training Facility

I visited the regional International Union of Elevator Constructors training facility in St. Louis last week. They recently launched a Veterans Assistance Program, providing resources and hands-on support for employees who served in navigating the VA benefits system. It was a pleasure to tour the facility and learn more about the ups and downs of elevator construction.

Meeting with MAC Plastics

I visited MAC Plastics Manufacturing in Olney this week, one of the leading plastics manufacturers in the United States. It was a pleasure touring their facility and seeing all the ways they provide high quality products to their customers in many different industries.

Serving Individuals with Disabilities

I visited Challenge Unlimited in Swansea, an organization founded over 60 years ago to serve individuals with disabilities. It was an honor to receive a certificate of appreciation recognizing our work together advocating for job opportunities for people with significant disabilities.

Recognizing a Special Southern Illinois Principal

I presented Cris Edwards of Olney with a Congressional Record, recognizing her being named a National Distinguished Principal by the National Association of Elementary School Principals. Her contributions to her community will now be etched in the official record of the House of Representatives. Richland County is lucky to have you, Cris!

Speaking with Fellow Conservatives

I joined the Annie Frey Show today in studio to discuss the Biden administration’s failure at the border and the latest news from Washington. I always have a great time speaking with great conservatives who keep the people informed!

Celebrating National FFA Week

Last week marked National FFA Week, a time to celebrate our rich agricultural heritage and the next generation of Southern Illinoisans who are entering into this proud and productive industry. Our farmers, ranchers, and producers are the backbone of our rural economy.

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- Mike