The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives have completed legislative business for the year, as lawmakers left Capitol Hill last week for the holidays.

One of the last bills to receive the House's approval: Rep. Bruce Westerman's legislation addressing permitting for energy and infrastructure projects.

Westerman, of Hot Springs, and Maine Democrat Jared Golden introduced the SPEED Act in late July with the intent of expediting environmental reviews and curtailing challenges that hinder project completion.

STORY: U.S. House passes Westerman-backed bill to speed infrastructure permits, scale back environmental law

Arkansas could feel the impact of this year’s annual defense policy measure, thanks to language calling for expanding munitions production.

President Donald Trump signed the National Defense Authorization Act into law last Thursday. This year's measure prioritizes domestic munitions production, which could result in more activity at the Pine Bluff Arsenal in Jefferson County.

STORY: Arkansas military installations get attention in National Defense Authorization Act

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com.

Arkansas farm leaders are thankful for the White House’s plan to help agriculture, but they remain uneasy about farming's immediate future.

The Trump administration plans to provide farmers across the country with one-time relief payments in the coming months. The package totals $12 billion, with row crop farmers set to receive most of the funds.

STORY: Arkansas farmers thankful, remain uneasy following Trump economic relief announcement

The Trump administration announced the relief package during a roundtable last Monday at the White House.

Two Arkansans — U.S. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., and Crittenden County farmer Charles Williams — joined other lawmakers and farmers for the event.

Read the full story in Monday's edition of the Democrat-Gazette.

The Arkansas Army National Guard continues its mission in the nation’s capital. Roughly 100 National Guard members arrived in Washington, D.C., earlier this month to assist local law enforcement.

The topic of deploying National Guard units to cities across the country was the subject of a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing last Thursday.

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., serves on the committee. The Little Rock senator defended the president's ability to use the National Guard and military units in American cities, citing President Dwight Eisenhower's 1957 decision to send federal troops to Little Rock to desegregate Little Rock Central High School.

STORY: Cotton defends Trump’s National Guard deployments to U.S. cities, compares them to Central High crisis

The Senate Judiciary Committee advanced David Clay Fowlkes' nomination to the full chamber for its consideration.

President Donald Trump nominated Fowlkes to serve on the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Arkansas. The Arkansan currently serves as the district's U.S. attorney.

STORY: U.S. Senate committee advances Fowlkes judicial nomination

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

Members of Arkansas' congressional delegation back recent U.S. military strikes against boats traveling from Latin America. The Trump administration has embraced these attacks as part of its strategy to confront drug trafficking.

Republican Sen. Tom Cotton and Rep. Rick Crawford heard more information about these strikes in closed-door briefings. Cotton, of Little Rock, and Crawford, of Jonesboro, lead the Senate and House intelligence committees, respectively.

STORY: Arkansas lawmakers back Trump administration on legality of recent military strikes in Caribbean Sea

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

The Justice Department has less than 30 days to release unclassified records about Jeffrey Epstein.

President Donald Trump signed legislation last Wednesday requiring the department to publish information about Epstein, his criminal activities and his 2019 death at a New York City prison.

Arkansas Republicans Rick Crawford, French Hill and Bruce Westerman joined almost every other House member in supporting legislation requiring the release. The Senate approved the bill through a unanimous consent motion.

STORY: U.S. House overwhelmingly passes bill to release Epstein files, including Crawford, Hill and Westerman

Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark., missed votes last week. The Rogers congressman was away from Capitol Hill because of a serious medical issue involving a family member.

Womack had the House's longest active voting streak, casting 8,823 consecutive votes between Jan. 5, 2011, and last Monday.

STORY: Womack’s voting streak ends after more than 8,800 votes

Westerman, of Hot Springs, wants the House to consider his permitting legislation before Congress takes its late December holiday break.

The House Natural Resources Committee has favorably reported the SPEED Act to the full chamber. Westerman and Maine Democrat Jared Golden introduced the measure in late July. The Hot Springs congressman also chairs the House committee.

The SPEED Act would limit environmental reviews for energy and infrastructure projects. Westerman hopes this change will expedite environmental assessments and help companies complete projects at a faster rate.

STORY: Westerman helps advance House bill to speed infrastructure permits, scale back environmental assessments

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., is pushing the Department of Agriculture to speed up its review of potential economic assistance for farmers.

The department has been studying relief options as farming operations in Arkansas and across the country struggle due to low crop prices, high input costs and changing trade dynamics.

STORY: Cotton asks U.S. Agriculture Secretary to speed up relief for farmers

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" Our next episode will be Dec. 7, as senators and House members are spending this week away from Capitol Hill for Thanksgiving.

In the meantime, you can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

The federal government shutdown ended last Wednesday when President Donald Trump signed a Senate plan to restore funding across the government.

All six members of Arkansas' congressional delegation backed the proposal, which maintains current funding levels for most federal agencies through Jan. 30. The legislation additionally funds agriculture, military construction and veterans affairs programs, as well as congressional operations, for the rest of the fiscal year.

The plan did not include language addressing the enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies, which will expire Dec. 31. Senate Democrats opposed an initial funding plan, citing the lack of attention toward extending these tax credits.

STORY: Boozman, Cotton support Senate plan to end government shutdown

STORY: Arkansas delegation backs bill to reopen government; Westerman says no one ‘gained anything’ from shutdown

STORY: Arkansas’ Hallie Shoffner says government shutdown shows need for change on Capitol Hill

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

Arkansas will deploy around 100 Arkansas National Guard members to Washington, D.C., after Thanksgiving to assist with the Trump administration's efforts to address crime in the nation's capital.

Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders' office described the deployment as "part of a routine rotational relief" of other National Guard units already in Washington. The assignment will be supported through federal funding.

STORY: Sanders announces deployment of roughly 100 Arkansas National Guardsmen to Washington D.C.

STORY: Cost of Arkansas National Guard’s deployment to D.C. gets ‘very loose estimate’ of $24,000 per day

The federal government shutdown continues, leaving many government employees without paychecks for another week.

The U.S. Constitution mandates senators and House members receive "compensation for their services," but three members of the Arkansas congressional delegation — Republican Reps. French Hill, Steve Womack and Bruce Westerman — have asked for their pay to be withheld amid the ongoing funding lapse.

STORY: Hill, Womack, Westerman oppose paychecks during government shutdown

STORY: Womack acknowledges ‘clerical error’ in receiving paycheck during shutdown

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

This is "Arkies in the Beltway" for the week of Nov. 2, 2025! I'm Alex Thomas, Washington Correspondent for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, with your look at national politics and the Arkansans influencing the discussions.

Saturday marked one month of the federal government shutdown, and its impact is apparent. The state of Arkansas has not received funding for federally supported programs, and thousands of federal workers have either been placed on furlough or required to work without pay.

The Democrat-Gazette spoke with members of Arkansas' congressional delegation about the shutdown, their work amid the funding lapse, and when the Senate and House of Representatives could reopen the government.

STORY: Arkansas lawmakers talk shutdown at one-month mark

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

The federal government shutdown enters a new week, and advocacy leaders in the Natural State are sharing their concerns about how the ongoing funding lapse will impact Arkansans.

The Arkansas Department of Human Services issued a warning last week regarding the lack of dollars to deliver SNAP benefits to thousands of Arkansans after Oct. 31. The state Department of Health has enough funding to support WIC — the nation's leading nutrition and health program for women and children — but only until mid-November.

STORY: Arkansas’ food assistance programs face uncertain future during shutdown

A statewide nonprofit organization has stopped accepting new cases, citing the government shutdown as the reason for the move.

Disability Rights Arkansas offers various services, including litigation assistance and investigations into abuse and neglect at health care facilities.

The organization receives federal grants to support its work, but agencies have not delivered these dollars due to the funding lapse.

STORY: Disability Rights Arkansas stops accepting new cases, blames federal shutdown

Members of Congress have been conducting some business on Capitol Hill amid the government shutdown.

The Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee advanced multiple bills during a business meeting last Tuesday, including legislation from Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., to expand the Flatside Wilderness Area in Central Arkansas.

STORY: U.S. Senate committee advances bills with Arkansas ties, including one for expansion of Flatside Wilderness Area

Thank you for checking out this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

The federal government shutdown continues into a new week, but the funding lapse has not prevented Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., from announcing new legislation aimed at helping farmers.

Crawford, of Jonesboro, and Louisiana Republican Julia Letlow have introduced the Bridge the Gap for Rural Communities Act. The bill would provide farmers with the option of receiving partial payments to cover crop losses, as well as lift payment limitations for price and revenue loss programs.

The lawmakers' push comes amid discussions between the White House and Congress about potential economic assistance for farmers struggling to maintain their operations.

STORY: Crawford announces bill to provide farmers with economic relief options

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

The federal government shutdown continues, keeping much of Capitol Hill at a standstill.

Democrats have pushed back against a short-term spending measure from their Republican colleagues, arguing Congress must address premium tax credits for health insurance purchased through the Affordable Care Act marketplace.

A 2021 enhancement affecting the size and eligibility criteria of these subsidies will expire at year's end without congressional action.

STORY: Government shutdown spotlights health insurance subsidies, next month’s open enrollment

While some government programs have continued during the shutdown with minimal interruptions, state agencies may not have enough funding for nutrition assistance services if the shutdown extends past October.

The nation's top nutrition programs — SNAP and WIC — are supported through the annual appropriations process. As the Senate and House of Representatives have not passed any sort of spending measure, the federal Department of Agriculture has already warned that these programs' operations are "subject to the availability of funding."

STORY: Arkansas agencies warn that food programs facing new risk

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

It appears the government shutdown will enter a second week as the U.S. Senate remains at a stalemate.

Republicans have pushed a continuing resolution to extend government funding through Nov. 21. Democrats, however, have put forward an alternative proposal addressing multiple policy priorities, including premium tax credits for health insurance purchased through the Affordable Care Act marketplace.

Members of Arkansas' congressional delegation have called on their Democratic colleagues to support the short-term funding measure, concerned about how a lengthy government shutdown could impact public employees and services.

STORY: Arkansas’ congressmen continue work, meetings during government shutdown

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

If you recall the start of Donald Trump's second presidency, his first actions upon returning to office caused the closure of the nation's most significant agency for distributing international assistance.

The U.S. Agency for International Development had been providing foreign aid and development services for more than six decades, but the Trump administration opted to end most of its contracts and shift remaining programs to the State Department.

Thousands of people lost their jobs as a result of this change, including an Arkansan who shared her story with the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

Check Monday's edition of the Democrat-Gazette for the full story.

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

There is still time for Congress to pass a funding measure averting a government shutdown at month's end, but the chances of such an event on Oct. 1 increased last Friday.

The U.S. House of Representatives approved a short-term funding measure keeping the government open through Nov. 21, but the Senate rejected this proposal and an alternative Democratic measure.

The Senate and House do not have any scheduled votes this week; both chambers are away from Capitol Hill for Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.

STORY: Arkansas’ federal lawmakers back spending measures, but shutdown threat still looms

When Congress resumes legislative business in Washington, lawmakers will face growing pressure to provide farmers with economic relief.

Operations in Arkansas and across the country have struggled to remain open given low crop prices and rising input costs.

During a telephone town hall last week, Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., shared a willingness to consider agricultural assistance later this year.

STORY: Arkansas Congressman French Hill open to backing financial assistance for farmers

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

Members of Arkansas' congressional delegation were among the public officials who condemned political violence following last Wednesday's assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Kirk, a staunch ally of President Donald Trump, was fatally shot during an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.

STORY: Arkansas political leaders react to shooting death of Charlie Kirk

U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., furthered his push for changing the federal permitting system as the House of Representatives Natural Resources Committee began consideration of the SPEED Act.

Westerman, of Hot Springs, and Maine Democrat Jared Golden introduced the measure in late July. The bill aims to shorten the permitting process by, in part, limiting environmental reviews to a project's proximate impact.

Most Democratic committee members criticized the SPEED Act, arguing the measure would diminish accountability in exchange for expediting energy and infrastructure projects.

STORY: U.S. House committee considers legislation to improve federal permit process, including Westerman’s SPEED Act

Thank you for listening to this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

Two Arkansas agricultural leaders spent part of last week in Washington, D.C., urging the Trump administration and Congress to take action to help farmers in the Natural State.

Joe Mencer and Andrew Grobmyer, officials with the Agricultural Council of Arkansas, participated in multiple meetings regarding possible economic assistance for producers. Mencer and Grobmyer traveled to the nation's capital as farms and other operations continue to struggle with low crop prices and elevated production costs.

The recent Republican tax and spending package made adjustments to federal agricultural programs, but farmers will not notice these changes until the fall of 2026.

STORY: Arkansas farm advocates visit Washington to call for financial aid

We are six months away from Arkansas' primary election, and candidates are already preparing their pitches to voters.

Zack Huffman, of Little Rock, is running as a Democrat in Arkansas' 2nd Congressional District. A former teacher, Huffman said he felt motivated to run for office as the Trump administration began its efforts to dismantle the Department of Education.

STORY: Little Rock’s Zack Huffman seeks Democratic nomination to face Rep. French Hill in 2nd District

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

As Republicans and Democrats in other states debate drawing new congressional districts before next year's midterm elections, Arkansas' state lawmakers are not in a position to hold similar discussions.

Following the 2020 census, Republicans drew a congressional map strengthening the GOP's ability to hold the state's four seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The recent gerrymandering efforts in Texas and California raised a question for J. Miles Coleman, who works at the University of Virginia Center for Politics: What would it take to give minority parties in states like Arkansas a chance to have some House representation?

Check Tuesday's edition of the Democrat-Gazette for the full story.

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

Members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives are preparing to resume legislative duties on Capitol Hill after Labor Day.

Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., hopes lawmakers work on passing permitting legislation — including his SPEED Act — later this fall.

Westerman, of Hot Springs, has pushed for overhauling the current permitting system, leading a House Natural Resources Committee hearing on issues affecting energy and public infrastructure projects before the August recess.

STORY: Westerman sees ‘growing bipartisan desire’ to speed infrastructure permits, scale back environmental law

Another Democrat has launched a bid to challenge U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., in next year's Senate contest.

Lewisville Mayor Ethan Dunbar has filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission to run for federal office.

Dunbar, who chairs the Arkansas Black Mayors Association, told the Democrat-Gazette that his decision stems in part from the hostile national political climate. He further said, "our political process has experienced some moral decay, and we've got to return respect for humanity first."

STORY: Lewisville mayor seeking Democratic nomination to face GOP’s Cotton for U.S. Senate seat

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

It's been more than a month since President Donald Trump signed Republicans' tax and spending package into law.

Much of the attention surrounding the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act has been focused on its preservation of the first Trump presidency's tax breaks and changes to Medicaid and nutrition assistance, but the law has also delivered a significant update to the agricultural programs.

Farmers and other producers have been pushing for congressional action addressing these programs for multiple years amid a period of low reference prices, high input costs and inflation.

Check Monday's edition of the Democrat-Gazette for the full article.

The previous episode of "Arkies in the Beltway" highlighted the possibility of a government shutdown in September.

Members of Congress have another reason to approve the annual appropriations measures next month: These spending bills will include millions of dollars for projects in their states and districts.

Senators and House members can make these requests for federal funds, also known as earmarks, as part of Congress' annual appropriations process.

STORY: Arkansas lawmakers aim to bring federal funds to Natural State with project requests

Thank you for checking out "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

U.S. Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., is back in the United States after leading a bipartisan congressional delegation on a trip to Israel.

Crawford, of Jonesboro, and colleagues held multiple discussions with Israeli officials regarding Israel's military efforts against Hamas militants, as well as the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The congressional trip occurred as Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders was in Israel as part of an overseas trade mission.

STORY: Crawford: Israelis doing ‘phenomenal job’ getting aid to Palestinians, but Hamas is in way

The August recess might be in full swing, but many lawmakers are already preparing for what awaits Congress in September.

The Senate and House of Representatives will have four weeks to pass all 12 appropriations measures or some other spending agreement to avert a government shutdown on Oct. 1.

Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark., has already expressed his disinterest in considering a continuing resolution to fund the government into the new fiscal year.

STORY: Arkansas lawmakers say they’re tired of short-term spending bills passed under threat of shutdown

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

Capitol Hill will be quiet for the foreseeable future as members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives take part in their annual August recess. Members of the House left Washington, D.C., on July 23 as House Republican leaders tried to avoid votes over files concerning financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Senators remained at the Capitol for an additional week for votes and other business, including a Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee hearing on the Department of Agriculture's proposed reorganization plan.

Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., chairs the Senate Agriculture Committee.

STORY: USDA official justifies reorganization strategy; Arkansas' John Boozman weighs in on it

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

The U.S. Senate is in its final week of legislative business before its August recess period. The House of Representatives started its annual break early as House Republican leaders sought to prevent votes over releasing more information about Jeffrey Epstein.

Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., spent the final week renewing his call for permitting reform. The Hot Springs congressman introduced legislation on Friday aimed at changing environmental reviews to streamline the permitting process.

STORY: Westerman pushes for NEPA changes to expedite energy project permitting

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., announced multiple measures last week addressing concerns among young families, including heavy metals in baby formula and hospital policies for providing life-saving care to newborn babies. Cotton, of Little Rock, tied the bills to his own experiences as a parent, as well as stories from friends handling the challenges of parenthood.

Check Monday's edition of the Democrat-Gazette for the full story.

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives passed a rescissions package at the end of last week, clawing back $9 billion for international aid and public broadcasting.

All six members of the Arkansas congressional delegation backed the measure, which the White House requested to address funds for items they described as "antithetical to American interests and values."

STORY: State’s federal lawmakers help pass $9B in cuts to foreign aid, public broadcasting

The rescission measure takes $1.1 billion away from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. The nonprofit corporation uses federal dollars to support public television and radio stations across the country, including Arkansas PBS and the state's NPR affiliates.

Arkansas public media leaders are assessing their organization's financial health to determine how to best confront this funding gap.

STORY: Funding cuts threaten future of Arkansas public media as Congress considers rescission package

During the rescission discourse, the House celebrated "crypto week" by passing legislation aimed at regulating cryptocurrencies and other digital assets.

Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., was one of the leaders of "crypto week." The former Little Rock banker leads the House Financial Services Committee.

STORY: Hill calls passage of digital asset regulations ‘high point’ of his time in Congress

Two Democrats are building their campaigns for federal office.

Hallie Shoffner, a sixth-generation farmer from Jackson County, officially launched her challenge to Republican Sen. Tom Cotton.

Rob Ryerse, a Springdale pastor, is hoping to defeat Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark., in next year's midterm elections. Ryerse challenged Womack in the 2018 Republican Primary in Arkansas' 3rd Congressional District, but he has since left the party and joined the Democratic Party.

STORY: Arkansas farmer Hallie Shoffner formally launches bid for U.S. Senate, challenging Cotton

STORY: Robb Ryerse seeks 2018 rematch with ’26 run in 3rd District

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!

This is "Arkies in the Beltway" for the week of July 13, 2025! I'm Alex Thomas, Washington Correspondent for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

This podcast typically focuses on national political issues and the Arkansans influencing the related discussions. This week's episode, however, is putting a spotlight on a more light-hearted subject matter: the Congressional Art Competition.

High school students enter the contest every year with hopes of having their artwork recognized at the U.S. Capitol. Offices in the U.S. House of Representatives host local competitions to determine which art piece should be part of the annual exhibition.

Four Arkansas teenagers — representing institutions in Arkansas' four congressional districts — traveled to Capitol Hill in June to meet other young artists and see their pieces on display.

STORY: Arkansas teens’ artwork among those chosen for annual US Capitol exhibit

Thank you for checking out this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for developments from the nation's capital!

Members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives were supposed to be spending the week of July 4 away from Capitol Hill, but lawmakers were instead in Washington, D.C., to consider congressional Republicans' tax and spending package.

The Senate and House passed the "one big, beautiful bill," which President Donald Trump signed into law last Friday.

All six members of the Arkansas congressional delegation supported the measure.

STORY: Boozman, Cotton play active parts in passing ‘big beautiful bill’ in Senate

STORY: Arkansas’ U.S. House members support Senate bill amid GOP chaos

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for developments from the nation's capital!

Congressional Republicans hope to meet President Donald Trump's July 4 deadline for passing their sweeping tax and spending measure, but trying to reach this goal has not come without challenges.

Senate Republicans had to revise parts of their bill after Senate parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough struck down several provisions, including language affecting Medicaid.

The Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee — under the leadership of Arkansas Republican John Boozman — resubmitted text affecting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program after MacDonough rejected parts of the committee's original proposal.

Meanwhile, congressional Democrats and advocates are pushing back against the effort, warning of the measure's possible impacts to Medicaid and SNAP.

STORY: Arkansans head to Capitol Hill to protest SNAP, Medicaid proposals

STORY: Senate parliamentarian OKs Boozman committee’s revised SNAP proposal

Thank you for checking out this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for developments from the nation's capital!

Members of the Natural State's congressional delegation have voiced support for President Donald Trump and the decision to strike three Iranian sites.

The military action occurred more than a week into the Israel-Iran conflict.

Republican Rep. Rick Crawford — the chair of the House Intelligence Committee — said the United States, Israel and other nations are "making it clear that the world would never accept Iran’s development of a nuclear weapon."

Sen. Tom Cotton — a fellow Republican who leads the Senate Intelligence Committee — said he hopes Iran heeds the president's warning and reconsiders any ideas of retaliatory attacks against Americans.

Meanwhile, the Senate parliamentarian has ruled against several provisions of Senate Republicans' tax and spending proposal, including language from the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee.

Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., and the committee had proposed modifications to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and agriculture programs, but the Senate parliamentarian has determined some changes violate the Senate's rules on considering budgetary measures.

STORY: Senate parliamentarian’s decision sets up roadblock for GOP’s planned SNAP changes

Boozman, of Rogers, and two fellow Arkansans — Cotton, of Little Rock, and Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark. — continue their campaign to protect the Pine Bluff Arsenal in Jefferson County.

Boozman and Cotton pressed defense officials about the U.S Army's organic industrial base last week in separate hearings. Westerman and Army officials toured the Pine Bluff Arsenal; the Hot Springs congressman said he hopes the tour provided insight into the installation's importance in filling white phosphorus munitions.

STORY: Boozman, Cotton, Westerman continue push to protect Pine Bluff Arsenal

Thank you for listening to this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for developments from the nation's capital!

Arkansans joined demonstrators across the country Saturday to protest President Donald Trump and his administration's policies during the first months of his second White House stint.

The No Kings rallies took place on the same day of the Army’s parade in Washington, D.C., commemorating its 250th anniversary. The parade in the nation’s capital also coincided with Trump's 79th birthday.

On Capitol Hill, two committees in the U.S. House of Representatives advanced legislation last week establishing a regulatory framework for digital assets.

The House Financial Services and Agriculture committees considered the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act in separate markups last Tuesday. The legislation would clarify the roles of federal agencies in regulating digital assets and people interested in such investments.

Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., leads the House Financial Services Committee.

STORY: Two U.S. House committees consider new rules for digital assets

The Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee has put forward its portion of Senate Republicans' proposal advancing their policy goals.

Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., announced the legislation last Wednesday as senators continue assembling the legislative package.

The plan has similarities to the House's "one, big beautiful bill" and its language on nutrition assistance, although senators are pushing less strict terms in provisions regarding work requirements and a mandate for states to cover some food benefit costs.

STORY: Boozman, U.S. Senate committee unveil reconciliation bill

Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark., is again proposing a constitutional amendment to allow Congress to pass legislation prohibiting actions desecrating the U.S. flag, such as burning the flag.

The Supreme Court has ruled flag burning and similar acts are protected "expressive conduct" under the First Amendment of the Constitution.

STORY: Womack pushes again for constitutional amendment targeting ‘physical desecration’ of American flag

Thank you for listening to this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for developments from the nation's capital!

A federal district court has sided with the state in a legal challenge against Arkansas' congressional map.

The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas issued a ruling on Friday stating opponents of the current boundaries failed to provide sufficient evidence proving state lawmakers acted with racial discrimination in their decision to split Pulaski County into three districts.

The plaintiffs claimed the division dilutes the strength of Black voters in Central Arkansas.

STORY: Federal court sides with state in congressional map dispute

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., wants Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll to invest more in the Pine Bluff Arsenal.

Cotton's push occurs as the Army is undertaking a "transformation initiative," which could result in consolidating military installations across the country.

STORY: Cotton argues for expansion of Pine Bluff Arsenal; Army secretary blames ‘constraints’ for search elsewhere

Disability Rights Arkansas has started accepting new cases again after pausing this service in April.

The independent nonprofit organization had to briefly halt taking new clients because the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Education had not delivered necessary grant funding.

Disability Rights Arkansas has credited the state's congressional delegation and lawmaker's push for the funding's release.

STORY: Federal agencies release grants for Disability Rights Arkansas, group resumes accepting new clients

Thank you for listening to this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for developments from the nation's capital!

Reconciliation work remained the talk of Capitol Hill as House Republicans continued to put together a plan combining spending cuts with an extension of the 2017 tax cuts.

Away from the nation's capital, a group of Arkansans celebrated President Donald Trump's plans to ease sanctions on Syria.

The United States placed sanctions on Syria amid former President Bashar Assad's atrocities against the Syrian people.

The Syrian Emergency Task Force — a nonprofit organization with offices in Washington and Little Rock — has been an instrumental force in raising awareness of Assad's actions and leading humanitarian efforts in the war-torn nation.

Members of the task force recently traveled to Damascus to meet with top Syrian officials, including interim Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, to discuss the country's future.

STORY: Arkansans see 'new possibilities' for Syria following U.S. plans to end sanctions

One Arkansas farmer provided senators with insight into the importance of agriculture conservation programs.

Arkansas Farm Bureau board member Brad Doyle testified before the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee about these federal initiatives as farmers and other producers wait to see if Congress will approve a new Farm Bill later this year.

STORY: Arkansas agriculture leader discusses conservation funding during U.S. Senate hearing

Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., watched the House of Representatives approve his latest bill to expand the Flatside Wilderness Area in Central Arkansas.

Hill, of Little Rock, has been pushing legislation to expand protections for more than nearby 2,200 acres, which would limit construction and other human activities in this space.

STORY: U.S. House approves Hill legislation expanding Flatside Wilderness

Thank you for checking out this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for developments from the nation's capital!

House Republicans continue their work on Capitol Hill to finalize a budget package cutting the deficit and extending the 2017 tax cuts.

The House Natural Resources Committee — led by Arkansan Bruce Westerman — approved its portion of the proposal last week. The committee's legislation seeks to generate $18.5 billion in savings and new revenue over the next 10 years.

STORY: Westerman, U.S. House committee approves energy-focused legislation aimed at boosting production and reducing deficit

Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., led the House Intelligence Committee on its release of a report assessing the FBI's investigation into the June 2017 congressional baseball shooting outside of Washington.

Crawford, of Jonesboro, and the committee determined the FBI was incorrect in its assessment of the attack being a "suicide by cop," noting the agency's own evidence showing the shooting was an act of domestic terrorism.

STORY: Crawford, House Intelligence Committee blast FBI for assessment of 2017 baseball shooting

One Arkansas farmer is seeking a chance to challenge Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., in next year's Senate race.

Hallie Shoffner has helped with managing her family's farm near Newport since 2016, but following their decision to close the operation amid a tough agricultural economy, she says she wants to help Arkansans like her who feel their voices remain unheard.

STORY: Sixth-generation Arkansas farmer plans to challenge Cotton for U.S. Senate

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for developments from the nation's capital!

The Senate and House of Representatives are back in action on Capitol Hill, and some House committees did not waste any time considering their portions of the reconciliation package.

Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., and the House Financial Services Committee approved its section authorizing steps for reducing the deficit by $1 billion over the next 10 years.

Committee Democrats opposed the language, arguing their Republican colleagues are pushing for potentially harmful spending reductions for the sake of extending the 2017 tax law.

STORY: Hill, U.S. House committee approves portion of reconciliation plan

Disability Rights Arkansas has stopped accepting new cases amid a snafu concerning federal funding.

The organization, which provides advocacy and litigation services to Arkansans with disabilities, was supposed to receive federal grant dollars in the weeks after Congress approved its most recent continuing resolution funding the government. The Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Education, however, have not delivered that funding.

STORY: Disability Rights Arkansas not accepting new cases, citing undelivered federal support

Warren Stephens is the new ambassador to the United Kingdom.

The Senate confirmed Stephens — a longtime investment banker and former leader of Stephens. Inc. — last Tuesday in a 59-39 vote.

STORY: U.S. Senate confirms Warren Stephens as United Kingdom ambassador

Thank you for checking out this week's "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for developments from the nation's capital!

Arkansas' federal delegation has asked President Donald Trump to reconsider the federal government's decisions on major disaster declaration requests in response to severe weather in mid-March.

Per the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette's Josh Snyder, the delegation's April 21 letter followed Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders' own appeal to the president concerning requests for individual assistance and public assistance.

STORY: Arkansas’ congressional delegation urges Trump to approve major disaster declarations made by Sanders

Members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives return to Capitol Hill on Monday following a two-week break.

Congressional Republicans do not have much time to waste, as they need to present policy recommendations by May 9 that meet their party's goals of spending cuts and preserving the 2017 tax breaks.

STORY: After national Republicans pass budget resolution, state’s delegates prepare to search for cuts

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for developments from the nation's capital!

Members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives remain away from Washington, D.C., as part of a two-week break from legislative business.

When lawmakers return to Capitol Hill at the end of the month, they will not have much time to finalize plans for meeting congressional Republicans' goals of spending reductions and preserving the 2017 tax cuts.

Senate and House committees have received instructions to finalize their recommendations by May 9, with House leaders already eyeing a vote on a reconciliation bill before the Memorial Day holiday.

STORY: After national Republicans pass budget resolution, state’s delegates prepare to search for cuts

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., had a successful first quarter of fundraising in support of his reelection effort.

Cotton, of Little Rock, ended the first three months of the year with $8.4 million in his campaign's reserves.

Cotton and other candidates for federal office submitted reports to the Federal Election Committee last week detailing their campaign's fundraising efforts and expenses through 2025 so far.

STORY: Cotton starts reelection effort with $8.4 million on hand after first quarter

Thanks for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for developments from the nation's capital!

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Senate budget framework on Thursday. The blueprint calls on congressional committees to recommend actions meeting Republicans' goals of spending reductions and extending the 2017 tax breaks.

All four of Arkansas' House members backed the legislation.

Congressional Democrats have been vocal with their opposition to the framework over possible cuts to government services like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Medicaid.

STORY: Disagreements over proposed SNAP changes at center of U.S. House hearing

Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee is now the ambassador to Israel.

The Senate confirmed Huckabee's nomination last Wednesday in a 53-46 vote.

Hours after the vote, Huckabee took the oath of office in a ceremony at the state Capitol in Little Rock.

STORY: U.S. Senate confirms Mike Huckabee as next ambassador to Israel

President Donald Trump is positioned to sign legislation overturning a Biden administration rule capping overdraft fees at banks and credit unions.

The House approved a Senate resolution nullifying a Consumer Financial Protection Bureau rule limiting overdraft fees to $5. The rule was supposed to take effect in October.

Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., in February introduced a House resolution with identical language to the Senate resolution. Hill, a former banker, chairs the House Financial Services Committee.

STORY: U.S. House votes to overturn overdraft rule; Arkansas lawmakers back nullification

Thanks for checking out "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for developments from the nation's capital!

The weekend began with a late night on Capitol Hill; the U.S. Senate worked until early Saturday morning on approving a budget plan with steps to cut spending and preserve the 2017 tax law.

Arkansas' two senators — Republicans John Boozman, of Rogers, and Tom Cotton, of Little Rock — supported the framework, which still needs the House of Representatives' approval.

Congressional Democrats oppose the plan, voicing concerns about the future of government services like Medicaid and food stamps if Republicans succeed in securing spending reductions.

STORY: U.S. Senate approves budget framework; Boozman, Cotton back plan

The Senate's consideration of the framework followed two chaotic days for U.S. stocks. Markets reacted negatively to the Trump administration's tariff plan affecting international goods imported into the United States.

During a telephone town hall, Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., acknowledged tariffs have been part of the country's "trade diplomacy" efforts, but he pushed back against the decision to enforce a sweeping tariff strategy affecting all foreign products.

STORY: Hill hosts telephone town hall event

The House Financial Services Committee advanced a bill to establish a regulatory framework for certain digital assets.

The STABLE Act would set federal oversight affecting payment stablecoins, which are digital assets whose value is pegged to traditional assets like the U.S. dollar.

Hill, of Little Rock, chairs the House Financial Services Committee.

STORY: House committee approves regulatory bill for stablecoin

Arkansas investment banker Warren Stephens faced the Senate Foreign Relations Committee as President Donald Trump's nominee to serve as ambassador to the United Kingdom.

Stephens is the second Arkansan to receive a nomination from the Trump administration; former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee appeared before senators in late March to discuss the possibility of serving as the next ambassador to Israel.

STORY: Stephens faces U.S. Senate panel in pursuit of U.K. ambassadorship

Thanks for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for developments from the nation's capital!

Much of the recent talk around Capitol Hill has focused on how Trump administration officials discussed a recent military operation and one journalist's access to their messages.

The Atlantic's Jeffrey Goldberg revealed he was part of a group chat on the Signal platform with top leaders, including Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The participants used the chat to discuss an attack on Houthi rebels in Yemen.

This group chat's existence dominated separate hearings last week held by the Senate and House of Representatives Intelligence committees.

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., and Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., chair these panels. Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., serves on the House Intelligence Committee.

STORY: Cotton highlights local FBI work amid intense U.S. Senate hearing

STORY: Crawford, Hill participate in intelligence hearing amid questions about group chat

Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee spent time before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Huckabee faced questions last Tuesday as President Donald Trump's nominee to serve as ambassador to Israel.

Huckabee, a staunch supporter of Israel, said his job — if confirmed — would be to "represent the president and his policies" rather than his own positions.

STORY: Former Gov. Huckabee looks to advance Trump administration’s vision in ambassadorship

The head of the National Transportation Safety Board told lawmakers in both chambers that her agency is continuing to review possible solutions to prevent close aircraft encounters around airports.

Jennifer Homendy's appearances on Capitol Hill occurred nearly two months after a fatal collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport between a commercial plane and a U.S. Army helicopter.

STORY: Womack asks NTSB chair about D.C. airport collision, failure to prevent incident

Thanks for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for developments from the nation's capital!

Capitol Hill was a quiet place last week as senators and House members spent time in their home states and districts.

When lawmakers return to the nation's capital on Monday, many people will be anticipating future discussions involving a possible budget reconciliation plan advancing President Donald Trump's agenda.

One agriculture advocacy organization hopes the Senate and House of Representatives, as part of a possible deal, keep Inflation Reduction Act funds for farm conservation programs. Arkansas farmers are currently slated to receive $665 million for conservation efforts as a result of Joe Biden's signature climate change law.

STORY: Arkansas farmers in line for $665M over next 6 years, but push for cuts makes Biden-era funds uncertain

Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., is anticipating the Environmental Protection Agency's upcoming revision of a key water regulation.

EPA administrator Lee Zeldin announced earlier this month his agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers shall review the "waters of the United States" definition and waterways eligible for regulatory protection from pollutants.

Boozman, of Rogers, joined congressional colleagues at EPA headquarters for Zeldin's announcement concerning the pending revision.

STORY: Boozman wants certainty with water protections as EPA reviews rule

Thanks for checking out "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for developments from the nation's capital!

The Senate and House of Representatives did their parts in preventing a government shutdown, passing a continuing resolution to fund the federal government through September.

Lawmakers had to approve this spending measure before the weekend after the previous Congress failed to pass their 12 annual appropriations measures.

All six members of the Arkansas congressional delegation backed the continuing resolution.

STORY: Arkansas representatives react to six-month federal funding resolution

STORY: U.S. Senate passes 6-month funding bill with support from Boozman, Cotton

The Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee continued receiving input on possible changes to Farm Bill programs with lawmakers eyeing passage of new legislation later this year.

Ben Noble, the executive vice president and COO of Stuttgart-based Riceland Foods, appeared before the Senate committee last Tuesday to discuss challenges facing producers with an outdated farm safety net and stagnant commodity reference prices.

STORY: U.S. Senate hearing focused on agriculture financial straits with pressing farm bill need

Thanks for checking out "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on BlueSky for developments from the nation's capital!

Members of Arkansas' congressional delegation attended President Donald Trump's joint address to Congress last week. These Arkansans left the U.S. Capitol late last Tuesday expressing optimism about Trump's return to the White House and his leadership so far.

STORY: Arkansas' congressional delegation lauds Trump's address

The House of Representatives Financial Services Committee advanced legislation addressing a recent Consumer Financial Protection Bureau rule on overdraft fees.

Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., introduced House Joint Resolution 59 in February. The measure would prevent the agency from implementing the change and issuing similar policies for the foreseeable future.

STORY: Hill’s proposal to invalidate limits on overdraft fees gets House panel’s OK

Meanwhile, members of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee began consideration of Rep. Bruce Westerman's bill addressing forest management and wildfires.

The House approved the Fix Our Forests Act in January. Westerman, a Hot Springs Republican, and California Democrat Scott Peters pushed the legislation through Congress' lower chamber.

STORY: U.S. Senate committee begins consideration of Westerman forest bill

Thanks for checking out "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on BlueSky for developments from the nation's capital!

The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives have passed separate budget resolutions addressing President Donald Trump and Republicans' top policy goals. Now, they have to reach a compromise.

The House last week approved a blueprint with $4.5 trillion in tax breaks and sights on $2 trillion in spending cuts. All four of Arkansas' House members supported this plan.

House Democrats have voiced concerns about how the proposal could affect government services, including Medicaid and nutrition programs.

STORY: Arkansas’ U.S. House delegation backs 10-year budget blueprint to reduce spending, taxes

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., is running for re-election.

Cotton, of Little Rock, launched his bid for another six-year term last Thursday.

The senator has emerged as a leading Republican figure on Capitol Hill; Cotton chairs the Senate Intelligence Committee and serves on the Senate GOP leadership team.

STORY: Cotton officially kicks off reelection bid

Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., is again pushing a bill to expand the Flatside Wilderness Area in Central Arkansas.

Hill's legislation would add more than 2,200 acres of the Ouachita National Forest to this protected space.

STORY: Hill trying for third time to expand Central Arkansas’ Flatside Wilderness Area

Thanks for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on BlueSky for developments from the nation's capital!

Members of the Senate and House of Representatives have budget resolutions on their minds.

The House returns to Capitol Hill on Monday in the wake of senators approving a $340 billion financial blueprint. The plan calls for a $150 billion boost to defense spending and a $175 billion increase for border security in conjunction with reduced spending across multiple areas.

Sens. John Boozman, of Rogers, and Tom Cotton, of Little Rock, joined 50 other Senate Republicans in supporting the budget resolution on Friday.

Speaking of Cotton, Arkansas' junior senator just released a new book.

"Seven Things You Can't Say About China" analyzes China's growing international prowess, as well as Cotton's concerns the nation could supersede the United States as the world's dominant political power.

STORY: New Cotton book expresses concerns with China 'close to parity' with U.S.

Thanks for checking out this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on BlueSky for developments from the nation's capital!

The Senate last week continued its consideration of President Donald Trump's picks for his administration.

Senators confirmed Brooke Rollins as agriculture secretary, Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as secretary of health and human services.

Sens. John Boozman, of Rogers, and Tom Cotton, of Little Rock, joined most of their Republican colleagues in supporting the nominations.

STORY: U.S. Senate confirms Rollins as agriculture secretary; Boozman hails her as 'advocate' for farmers

STORY: Boozman, Cotton support Gabbard as national intelligence director

Two members of Arkansas' congressional delegation are backing Trump's decision to implement tariffs on steel and aluminum imports.

Cotton and Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., were vocal in the last Congress in pushing for more action to protect American producers from foreign goods entering the United States.

Crawford, of Jonesboro, serves as co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Steel Caucus.

STORY: Cotton, Crawford voice support for Trump action on steel, aluminum

An Arkansas electricity cooperative leader testified before House members on the federal permitting process.

Buddy Hasten, president and chief executive officer of Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas, told lawmakers last Tuesday that current guidance hinders efforts to ensure Americans have access to sufficient energy services.

STORY: Arkansas electricity leader calls for reviewing federal regulations with projects

Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., wants the Federal Reserve to take steps to confront inflation.

Hill, of Little Rock, addressed Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell during a House Financial Services Committee hearing last Wednesday on the matter.

Hill serves as the committee's chair.

STORY: Powell “not in a hurry” to make interest rate cuts, Hill wants more done on inflation

Thanks for listening to this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on BlueSky for developments from the nation's capital!

Multiple Arkansans appeared before the Senate and House of Representatives in hopes of providing valuable insight and influencing public policy decisions.

Farmers Nathan Reed, of Marianna, and Jennifer James, of Newport, delivered testimony to the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee. Senators invited these producers and others to Capitol Hill to better understand the state of the agriculture economy.

On the other side of the U.S. Capitol, Arkansas banking leaders Cathy Owen and Sussanah Marshall discussed the challenges facing local community banking with the House Financial Services Committee.

STORY: Arkansas farmers push for new farm bill in U.S. Senate hearing

STORY: Hill’s first hearing as House committee chair brings attention to community banking

Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., and Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., joined congressional colleagues and White House czar David Sacks last Tuesday to launch a bicameral working group focused on passing digital asset legislation.

Boozman, of Rogers, and Hill, of Little Rock, hope the body's work can lead to Congress creating a regulatory structure for cryptocurrencies and similar items.

STORY: Boozman, Hill help launch digital assets working group

If you have been following "Arkies in the Beltway" in recent months, then you know about Arkansas' newfound sway on Capitol Hill.

Five members of Arkansas' congressional delegation are serving as committee chairs in the 119th Congress. With these assignments, the Natural State has the more influence in the halls of Congress than it has had in the past five decades.

STORY: Arkansas’ lawmakers in Washington now hold five committee leadership posts

As President Donald Trump and the Republican-led Congress work on implementing their policy goals, Democrats are looking to move forward following last November's election results.

Democratic leaders — including top members of the Democratic Party of Arkansas — picked Ken Martin as the new chair of the Democratic National Committee at the committee's winter meeting outside of Washington, D.C.

Arkansas' top Democratic officials backed Martin, who most recently led the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party.

STORY: Arkansas Democrats look ahead following DNC leadership elections

Thanks for checking out "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on BlueSky for developments from the nation's capital!

As members of the U.S. House of Representatives spent time away from the nation's capital, the Senate remained busy considering President Donald Trump's picks for his administration.

Tulsi Gabbard, a former congresswoman representing Hawaii, appeared before the Senate Intelligence Committee to discuss her nomination as director of national intelligence. Republican and Democratic senators pressed Gabbard on her past actions and comments, including a 2017 meeting with then-Syrian President Bashar Assad amid his country's civil war.

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., chairs the Senate Intelligence Committee. He sought answers from Gabbard regarding possible changes impacting bureaucracy within the intelligence community.

STORY: Tom Cotton hopes Tulsi Gabbard can be ally in confronting intelligence bureaucracy

Thanks for checking out this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on BlueSky for developments from the nation's capital!

Donald Trump's second presidency is underway, and the 47th president did not waste any time implementing parts of his agenda and campaign promises.

Hours after taking office, Trump signed multiple executive orders, including one action delaying a nationwide ban of the social media platform TikTok. Trump additionally issued pardons for people charged with crimes for the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol.

STORY: Arkansas leaders ecstatic, ready for second Trump presidency

STORY: Cotton, Crawford steadfast in wanting TikTok sale ending Chinese ties

STORY: Arkansas’ congressmen say they don’t condone Jan. 6 violence, but call to move forward after pardons

Several Arkansans traveled to Washington, D.C., to watch the inauguration ceremony. They, however, were not able to watch the inauguration from the U.S. Capitol's west side after Trump decided to move the event to the U.S. Capitol Rotunda because of cold temperatures.

STORY: Even with inauguration changes, Arkansans enjoy time in nation’s capital

Two of Arkansas' federal lawmakers marked career milestones when they presided over committees as chairs for the first time.

Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., and the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee welcomed Brooke Rollins as senators consider her nomination to serve as the next agriculture secretary.

On the other side of the U.S. Capitol, Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., and the House Financial Services Committee discussed the committee's goals for the 119th Congress.

STORY: Agriculture secretary nominee faces U.S. Senate panel as Boozman chairs first hearing

STORY: Hill chairs House committee for first time, organizes Financial Services panel

The House sent a forest management measure to the Senate for that chamber's consideration.

Reps. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., and Scott Peters, D-Calif., originally introduced the Fix Our Forests Act during the last Congress in hopes of expediting the environment review process for maintenance projects and promoting better forest resiliency.

STORY: U.S. House passes bipartisan Westerman bill on forest management

Thanks for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" Stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on BlueSky for developments from the nation's capital!

I'm Alex Thomas, Washington Correspondent at the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, with your look at national politics and the Arkansans influencing the discussions. Regarding those Arkansans of interests, the Natural State's congressional delegation is in quite the position to administer some influence throughout this Congress.

Five Arkansans are now serving in committee chair roles after House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., elevated Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., on Thursday to the top position on the House Intelligence Committee.

Crawford, of Jonesboro, and Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., are Congress' top members on intelligence-related issues. Cotton, of Little Rock, leads the Senate Intelligence Committee.

STORY: Crawford named chairman of the House Intelligence Committee

The Senate has started considering President-elect Donald Trump's choices for top administrative positions.

Cotton and Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., participated in hearings where presumptive nominees explained their goals for the new presidential administration, as well as addressed senators' questions about their positions and records.

STORY: Cotton allows Hegseth to explain stance on women in combat

STORY: Cotton chairs first Senate Intelligence Committee hearing, presses CIA director nominee on agency’s mission

STORY: Boozman calls on Trump’s EPA pick to work with USDA, consider farmers and ranchers

The House of Representatives Rules Committee will consider a bipartisan proposal from Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., on Tuesday, the Fix Our Forests Act.

Westerman, of Hot Springs, starts this year optimistic about this Congress and his second term leading the House Natural Resources Committee.

STORY: Westerman hopes to ride legislative momentum in ongoing House committee leadership

Thanks for checking out this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!"

Stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on BlueSky for developments from the nation's capital!

It's a new year and a new Congress.

The 119th Congress is now underway. Republicans hold majority control in the Senate and House of Representatives.

Members of Arkansas' congressional delegation are wielding tremendous influence at the start of this new Congress.

Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., now chairs the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee after four years as its ranking member.

Boozman, of Rogers, and other agriculture leaders will spend the year working on a new farm bill after the previous Congress failed to approve a new legislative package authorizing nutrition assistance, agriculture and rural development programs.

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., leads the Senate Intelligence Committee.

Reps. French Hill and Bruce Westerman have top roles in Congress' lower chamber. Hill, of Little Rock, serves as chair of the House Financial Services Committee. Westerman, of Hot Springs, is continuing his tenure leading the House Natural Resources Committee.

STORY: Arkansans take lead roles on developing new farm bill as ’18 version remains in effect

Much of the attention on Capitol Hill last week focused on the legacy of Jimmy Carter.

The 39th president died on Dec. 29 at the age of 100.

Vice President Kamala Harris, members of Congress, Supreme Court justices and others paid their respects to Carter as his remains lay in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda.

STORY: National leaders honor Jimmy Carter as his body arrives at U.S. Capitol

Two Arkansans are seeking top positions with the Democratic National Committee.

Former congressional candidate Quintessa Hathaway is running for party chair. Chris Jones, who ran for governor in 2022, is vying for a vice chair position.

Read the full story on arkansasonline.com

Thanks for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on BlueSky for developments from the nation's capital!

It was a mad dash on Capitol Hill to complete legislative work before the holidays.

The Senate and House of Representatives addressed the final priorities of the year, including a stopgap funding package preventing a government shutdown.

Part of that legislation includes $10 billion in economic assistance for farmers as the agriculture industry continues dealing with high input costs and declining net farm incomes.

STORY: Bill signed into law Saturday sets aside $10B in economic assistance for farmers

Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., watched the Senate pass two of his measures, sending the bills to the White House for President Joe Biden's signature.

The Senate approved a bipartisan outdoor recreation package and legislation dedicating the Kingsland post office after country music icon Johnny Cash.

Westerman, of Hot Springs, served as lead sponsor of both measures.

STORY: U.S. Senate approves Westerman-led outdoor recreation measure

STORY: Bill to rename Kingsland post office for Johnny Cash advances to president's desk

Thank you for checking out "Arkies in the Beltway!" The program is taking a break for the holidays, but it will return in 2025 with new episodes covering the decisions and decision-makers impacting Arkansas.

You can stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can get in touch with me on social media; I'm now posting on Bluesky.

U.S. Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., is preparing to lead an important House of Representatives committee.

The House Republican Steering Committee has recommended Hill, of Little Rock, as the next chair of the House Financial Resources Committee. A former banker, Hill has served as the committee's vice chair in the current Congress.

STORY: Hill getting ready to wield gavel for House Financial Services Committee

Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., ended his bid to lead the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

Crawford, of Jonesboro, launched his run for the seat in March as the committee's current chair, Missouri Republican Sam Graves, sought a waiver to bypass a House GOP rule limiting time as a committee's top Republican member.

The steering panel granted such a waiver to Graves, allowing him to pursue another two-year term holding the gavel.

STORY: Crawford bows out of House committee chair race

Arkansans are among those monitoring Syria following the collapse of Bashar Assad's regime.

The Syrian Emergency Task Force — which has an office in Little Rock — is a nonprofit organization vocal about ending the civil war and assisting Syrians impacted by the conflict.

STORY: Arkansans eager over Syria’s future following Assad’s fall

Thank you for checking out "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can get in touch with me on social media; I'm now posting on Bluesky.

Congress is sprinting to complete its work before the holidays.

The Senate and House of Representatives have a full agenda of things to accomplish before Dec. 20, including action for farm bill programs addressing nutrition, rural development and agriculture.

Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders joined 16 other Republican governors in a letter last Monday calling on Congress to reauthorize these programs.

STORY: Sanders among GOP governors calling for farm bill action

The House Intelligence Committee has released a report stating it is "increasingly likely" that a foreign adversary is responsible for anomalous health incidents involving American diplomats and their families.

Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., is leading the committee's investigative efforts on these matters.

STORY: Crawford-led report: Foreign adversary “very likely” responsible for health incidents among diplomats

Another Arkansan is set to become an ambassador in the incoming presidential administration.

President-elect Donald Trump has named investment banker Warren Stephens as the next ambassador to the United Kingdom.

Stephens currently serves as president and CEO of Stephens Inc., a privately held investment firm based in Little Rock.

Trump in November named former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee as the next ambassador to Israel.

STORY: Trump names Warren Stephens as next U.K. ambassador

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media, including on Bluesky.

Members of Congress are away from Capitol Hill this week for Thanksgiving.

When they return to Washington, it will be a three-week sprint to complete work for the 118th Congress.

Top items of concern include avoiding a government shutdown on Dec. 20 and the White House's $98.4 billion request addressing natural disaster recovery efforts.

STORY: Womack: Congress must take disaster relief proposal seriously

Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., anticipates Congress will approve a short-term extension of the farm bill in December as Republicans and Democrats continue to struggle with finalizing a bipartisan proposal.

Michigan Democrat Debbie Stabenow — the chair of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee — has released the legislative text of Senate Democrats' farm bill proposal. There is, however, limited time on the congressional calendar to move this measure through the Senate and House of Representatives.

Boozman, of Rogers, is the Senate Agriculture Committee's top GOP member. He will become the committee's chair in January when Republicans take control of the Senate.

STORY: Boozman expects farm bill extension amid legislative crunch

Thank you for checking out "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media, including Bluesky.

Members of Congress have returned to Capitol Hill, and they are not wasting time preparing for next year's Republican trifecta.

Senate Republicans elected Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., as their conference chair. Cotton, of Little Rock, defeated Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst in a secret ballot for the No. 3 seat in the Senate GOP.

STORY: Tom Cotton named No. 3 Republican in U.S. Senate

President-elect Donald Trump continues to assemble his administration.

Trump has made multiple picks for positions, including former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee as the next ambassador to Israel.

Huckabee, who served as the Natural State's governor for more than a decade, has been a vocal Trump supporter. He endorsed Trump's 2016 presidential campaign after ending his own White House bid.

STORY: Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee tapped as U.S. ambassador to Israel by Trump

Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., has published a list of principles for rules affecting community banks.

Hill, of Little Rock, released his goals for the next Congress amid his pursuit of the House Financial Services Committee chair job.

STORY: Hill proposes community banking ideas as he pursues financial committee chairmanship

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across most platforms is @AlexHouseThomas. You can also find me on Bluesky.

Arkansas' members of the U.S. House of Representatives had a successful Election Day.

All four incumbents — Republican Reps. Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack and Bruce Westerman — will return to Capitol Hill to continue their congressional careers.

In addition, Crawford, Hill and Westerman could begin the next Congress in January as committee chairs.

STORY: Arkansas' four U.S. House incumbents reelected

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., plans to stay in the Senate.

Cotton, of Little Rock, opted against joining Donald Trump's second administration to continue serving as senator. The move comes as Cotton eyes a spot on the Senate Republican leadership team.

STORY: As Trump forms second Cabinet, Cotton ‘very happy’ in U.S. Senate

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

Election Day is Tuesday, and Arkansas' federal lawmakers have multiple reasons to keep their eyes on the results.

There are, of course, the races in Arkansas' four House of Representatives districts, but there are also eyes on the Senate and House contests happening outside of the Natural State.

If Republicans flip the Senate and hold onto the House, this possible GOP control of Capitol Hill could provide Arkansas' two senators and four House members with tremendous influence on public policy through committee and party leadership roles.

Read the full story in Monday's edition of the Democrat-Gazette.

Congress does have work to do in the final weeks of this year.

A bipartisan group of House members is pushing legislation to provide emergency financial assistance payments to farmers in financial straits.

Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark, is cosponsoring the Farmer Assistance Revenue Mitigation Act, which comes as the Senate and House struggle to reach final terms of a new farm bill.

STORY: Crawford joins congressional coalition urging agriculture relief

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

We conclude our series covering Arkansas' four congressional races by looking at the 4th Congressional District contest. U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., has served on Capitol Hill since January 2015. Democrat Risie Howard of Pine Bluff is challenging the Hot Springs incumbent for the seat.

STORY: Westerman, Howard face off in 4th Congressional District contest

Thank you for checking out this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

This week's episode is the third part of our series covering Arkansas' four congressional races in this fall's general election. We're looking at the contest in the Natural State's 3rd Congressional District; Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark., is seeking an eighth term on Capitol Hill as Democrat Caitlin Draper and Libertarian Bobby Wilson put forward their own challenges to the incumbent.

STORY: Womack faces Democratic, Libertarian challengers in 3rd District race

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

We continue our month-long series on Arkansas' four congressional races by looking at the 2nd District contest between Republican incumbent Rep. French Hill and Democratic challenger Marcus Jones.

Hill, of Little Rock, is running for re-election with nearly a decade of experience on Capitol Hill. As for Jones, also of Little Rock, he entered the contest last October after 29 years with the military.

STORY: Hill, Jones work on selling experience in 2nd District contest

Thank you for checking out this week's edition of "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

Election Day is less than a month away, and Arkansans will have many candidates to consider for local, state and federal offices.

During October, "Arkies in the Beltway" will look at the contests for Arkansas’ congressional districts, hearing from the candidates as they explain why they are best suited to represent the Natural State on Capitol Hill.

We start this series, appropriately enough, with Arkansas' 1st Congressional District; incumbent Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., is facing challenges from Democrat Rodney Govens and Libertarian Steve Parsons.

STORY: Crawford faces 2 challengers in 1st District U.S. House election

Thank you for checking out this week's edition of "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

The "Man in Black" is now in bronze.

Arkansans joined congressional leaders, Arkansas lawmakers and members of Johnny Cash's family on Capitol Hill last Tuesday for a ceremony unveiling a statue of the Arkansas native on Capitol Hill.

Cash is the first musician to be recognized with a sculpture in the National Statuary Hall collection.

The ceremony completes a multi-year effort to install new statues of Arkansans at the U.S. Capitol; officials unveiled a sculpture honoring civil rights leader Daisy Bates in May.

STORY: Musician, Arkansas legend Johnny Cash recognized with U.S. Capitol statue

The Senate and House of Representatives have started their October recess.

Members of both chambers left Capitol Hill last week after passing a continuing resolution funding the federal government through Dec. 20.

When lawmakers return to Washington, D.C., on Nov. 12, they will have five weeks of legislative business to complete any lingering work before the new Congress begins its first legislative session in January.

STORY: Arkansas’ federal lawmakers weigh in on temporary government funding, preview post-election budget fight

Thank you for listening to this week's "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

The main focus on Capitol Hill this week — at least, when it comes to legislative business — will be lawmakers' ability to prevent a government shutdown at month's end.

The House of Representatives rejected a proposal last week to maintain funding until late March. House Republicans coupled that language with legislation requiring citizens to present some form of identification to register to vote in federal elections.

All four of Arkansas' House members supported the measure.

STORY: Arkansas’ U.S. House members back failed spending plan

Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., wants colleagues to take action to protect agriculture producers.

As Congress remains unable to pass a new farm bill, Boozman, of Rogers, says farmers need access to financial assistance amid increasing input costs, high interest rates and market prices not keeping up with expenses.

STORY: Boozman urges action on farm bill, farmer assistance with rising financial pressure

Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders generated controversy last week over remarks about Vice President Kamala Harris.

A Sanders spokesperson said Sanders' comments during a town hall with former President Donald Trump — during which Sanders said Harris "doesn't have anything keeping her humble" — were not an attack on the vice president for not having biological children.

STORY: Sanders camp says Harris jab was a reference to policies

Arkansans are excited for Tuesday's ceremony on Capitol Hill unveiling a statue of Johnny Cash.

The bronze Cash statue is the second statue of an Arkansan to be installed on Capitol Hill this year; a similar sculpture of civil rights leader Daisy Bates was unveiled to the public in May.

STORY: Check Sunday's edition of the Democrat-Gazette for the full story.

Thank you for listening to this week's "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

We are nearly seven weeks away from Election Day, and campaigning is in full swing, both nationally and in Arkansas.

Democratic congressional candidate Marcus Jones is criticizing U.S. Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., for using images of military awards on a campaign mailer to voters in Arkansas' 2nd Congressional District.

The flier — highlighting Hill's work addressing veterans issues — notes how the congressman's office has helped recover lost military medals for service members and their families. The mailer includes images of the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, and the Medal of Honor, which are awarded to military members in recognition of their actions.

Jones, a retired Army colonel, called the mailer "particularly insulting to those veterans who received those gallantry awards or were wounded or killed in combat to receive a Purple Heart."

STORY: Democrat Jones accuses Hill’s campaign of ‘borrowed valor’ for mailer that showed medals

Congress does not have a clear pathway for avoiding a government shutdown at month's end.

The House of Representatives was supposed to vote last Wednesday on a six-month continuing resolution with attached language addressing voting in federal elections, but Republican leadership pulled the measure hours before the scheduled vote.

The Senate and House must approve a spending plan by Sept. 30 to continue funding government operations into the new fiscal year.

STORY: Arkansas’ U.S. House members ponder funding options as Sept. 30 deadline approaches

Members of the House Indian and Insular Affairs Subcommittee highlighted the importance of the United States' relationships with three Pacific island nations during a recent oversight hearing.

Congress and President Joe Biden approved furthering the United States' partnerships with these nations — including the Marshall Islands — back in March.

STORY: U.S. House subcommittee hearing emphasizes agreements with Marshall Islands, other Pacific island nations

Thank you for listening to this week's "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

Members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives return to Capitol Hill on Monday, bringing an end to their month-long August recess period.

Lawmakers will arrive in Washington, D.C., aware Congress must pass an appropriations plan and address the current farm bill before month's end.

As it concerns appropriations, Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., secured language in one of the Senate appropriations measures calling on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to hold listening sessions on a proposed rule affecting emergency personnel.

OSHA projects the proposal will cost public volunteer fire departments across the country more than $14,000 annually if the rule goes into place.

STORY: Boozman meets with firefighters in Sebastian County about proposed OSHA rule

Meanwhile, the trucking industry is watching how the House considers its remaining seven appropriations measures, specifically one bill's provision supporting $200 million in truck parking projects.

The language is a response to a nationwide issue of truck drivers not having available parking when they are done driving for the day.

STORY: Womack-led appropriations measure puts aside millions for truck parking

Thank you for listening to this week's "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., and Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., have introduced bipartisan legislation supporting research on smartphone use in schools. The Focus on Learning Act calls on the federal Department of Education to study how these devices impact academic achievement and students' mental health.

The two measures come amid interest nationwide and in the Natural State to restrict smartphone access among students. Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders and state Education Secretary Jacob Oliva are pushing a pilot program to provide school districts with pouches so students may store their phones during the school day.

Read the full story in Tuesday's edition of the Democrat-Gazette. 

Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., spent part of last week in Texas. Part of his trip involved the next farm bill and necessary language concerning agriculture production.

Boozman, of Rogers, and Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, participated in an agriculture roundtable, during which the senators emphasized the importance of putting "more farm" in the next legislative package. The current farm bill is set to expire in September.

STORY: Boozman stresses farm protections in Texas agriculture roundtable

Thank you for listening to this week's "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

As Democrats from across the country converged in Chicago last week for the Democratic National Convention, the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette spent time following the Arkansas delegation in the Windy City as they joined other Democrats to formally nominate Vice President Kamala Harris as the party's presidential nominee.

On this week's "Arkies in the Beltway," we take a look at the energy surrounding Harris' presidential campaign, as well as the Arkansans looking to build the Democratic Party's statewide and nationwide outreach.

STORY: Former Secretary Clinton addresses Democratic National Committee as convention gets underway

STORY: U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders calls on Democrats to do more in Arkansas, other Republican-led states

STORY: Arkansas Democrats’ 2022 gubernatorial nominee pushing party to reach out to rural America

STORY: Bill Clinton calls Harris ‘president of joy,’ says Trump ‘creates chaos’

STORY: Arkansas Democrats eager to return to state energized from national convention

Thank you for checking out "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

Democrats from across the country are converging in Chicago this week for the Democratic National Convention.

The event completes a month of changes to the Democratic Party's presidential ticket, with Vice President Kamala Harris accepting the torch from President Joe Biden and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz joining the Harris campaign as the party's vice presidential nominee.

Arkansas Democrats are arriving in Chicago enthusiastic about Harris, believing she will put forward a campaign capable of defeating former President Donald Trump in November.

Check Sunday's edition of the Democrat-Gazette for the full story.

Thank you for checking out "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

Arkansas Democrats are ecstatic about Vice President Kamala Harris' choice of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate.

Harris named Walz to the Democratic presidential ticket last Tuesday, with the vice president and Democrats across the country now working to build momentum ahead of this fall's election.

Walz, a former member of the U.S. House of Representatives, is currently in the middle of his second term as governor.

STORY: Arkansas Democrats ecstatic about Harris’ running mate pick; Republicans criticize Walz' record

U.S. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., is helping lead a bipartisan effort addressing the current system used by Medicare for reimbursing doctors.

Boozman and Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vt., introduced the Physician Fee Stabilization Act before the Senate began its August recess. The legislation would update the current fee schedule and prevent future reductions in payments to physicians.

STORY: Boozman helping lead charge addressing Medicare payments

Members of Arkansas' congressional delegation are hopeful about securing millions of dollars for projects in Arkansas.

The lawmakers submitted funding requests to the Senate and House of Representatives Appropriations Committees to support projects across the Natural State ranging from interstate construction to work at the former Army-Navy Hospital in Hot Springs.

Check Monday's edition of the Democrat-Gazette for the full story

Thank you for checking out "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., had an opportunity to present Secret Service Acting Director Ronald Rowe with questions surrounding the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump and the agency's shortcomings in protecting the former president and attendees of a July 13 rally in Pennsylvania.

Cotton, of Little Rock, participated in a joint hearing of the Senate Judiciary and Homeland Security committees last Tuesday, in which senators examined the shooting. Cotton serves on the Senate Judiciary Committee.

STORY: Cotton questions Secret Service’s acting chief on agency protocol after Trump assassination attempt

The Senate approved the nomination of Arkansas' adjutant general as the next director of the U.S. Army National Guard.

The Senate confirmed Jonathan Stubbs to the role, as well as a promotion from major general to lieutenant general.

STORY: U.S. Senate approves Arkansas adjutant general as director of U.S. Army National Guard

The Senate also concurred with the House of Representatives regarding a date for the public unveiling of the Johnny Cash statue at the U.S. Capitol.

The statue will officially become part of the National Statuary Hall Collection on Sept. 24. Arkansas currently has one statue part of this collection; Arkansans joined state and federal leaders on Capitol Hill in May to celebrate the installation of a statue recognizing civil rights leader Daisy Bates.

STORY: U.S. Senate approves Sept. 24 for unveiling of Cash statue

Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., has added more stories to the Library of Congress' Veterans History Project. Boozman, of Rogers, and his office have submitted 104 narratives of Arkansas veterans to the collection thus far, with the submissions highlighting these individuals' experiences serving in the armed forces.

Check Moday's edition of the Democrat-Gazette for the full story,

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

Arkansas' delegation for this year's Democratic National Convention did not waste any time backing Vice President Kamala Harris as their party's presidential nominee.

Delegates voted unanimously to support Harris, who is expected to lead the Democratic Party's presidential ticket following President Joe Biden's decision to drop out of the race. Harris has received overwhelming national support in the days following Biden's move, setting herself up to become the party's pick to face former President Donald Trump in November.

STORY: Arkansas delegation for 2024 Democratic National Convention endorses Harris in presidential race

Members of Arkansas' congressional delegation spoke highly of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following his address during a joint meeting of Congress.

Netanyahu's appearance on Capitol Hill was met with protests outside the U.S. Capitol as Israel continues to face questions regarding its tactics amid its war against Hamas.

STORY: Arkansas lawmakers celebrate Netanyahu following Capitol Hill address

We have an idea when the statue of Johnny Cash will be unveiled on Capitol Hill.

The U.S. House of Representatives approved a concurrent resolution last week authorizing the use of Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center for an unveiling ceremony. The resolution notes Sept. 24 as the date for the event.

STORY: U.S. House approves Sept. 24 for ceremony unveiling Cash statue

The Senate and House will spend the month of August away from Capitol Hill for Congress' annual August recess.

When lawmakers return to Washington, D.C., they will not have much time to address their end-of-year to-do list and complete their legislative tasks for the year.

One important item in need of congressional action: a new version of the Water Resources Development Act, which authorizes projects under the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as well as research on water resources and ecosystems.

Check out this story in Monday's edition of the Democrat-Gazette.

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

This week, we are taking a look at an event outside of Beltway. The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette joined Arkansans in Milwaukee last week as they participated in the Republican National Convention and formally nominated former President Donald Trump as their presidential nominee.

On this week's episode, we provide you with an inside look at the emotions of the week following the assassination attempt against Trump, the Arkansans who shared the convention stage with other leading Republican figures, and what some people are thinking with the general election less than four months away.

STORY: Arkansas Republicans eager for convention as emotions over Trump assassination attempt linger

STORY: Arkansas Republicans applaud Trump’s selection of Vance as running mate

STORY: Cotton, Sanders call for a second Trump White House term in Republican National Convention speeches

STORY: Hutchinson watches GOP convention from sidelines, 6 months after ending presidential campaign

STORY: Arkansas Republicans energized after convention, ready to support Trump's candidacy

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

Members of Congress were busy upon returning to Capitol Hill from their Independence Day break. U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., and Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., introduced separate measures confronting different matters; Cotton's bill involves the U.S. Supreme Court's recent decision overturning its longstanding Chevron deference, while Westerman's measure addresses the use of cell phones in classrooms.

STORY: Sen. Tom Cotton seeks court case, agency reviews after Supreme Court overturns regulatory precedent

The United States and Mexico have agreed on actions protecting steel and aluminum industries from Chinese efforts to enter other markets.

The nations hope these new efforts will stop China's ability to enter North America by shipping products to Mexico, avoiding American tariffs in the process.

STORY: U.S., Mexico reach deal to protect steel and aluminum from foreign tariff circumvention

Members of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee are getting more serious about establishing a regulatory framework for digital commodities.

Lawmakers and regulators alike have been pushing to close the current gap in federal oversight, which was made apparent by the collapse of cryptocurrency exchange FTX nearly two years ago.

Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., is the Senate Agriculture Committee's ranking member; he wants the committee to address the matter but warns of taking any action risking the United States' chances of having an advantage over its international counterparts.

STORY: Senators eye action on digital commodities; Boozman unsure of success in current Congress

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette will have coverage this week from the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. On next week's episode, we will recap the gathering and the Arkansans who played a part in the GOP gathering.

Rather, we're taking a break from our usual coverage to discuss this year's Congressional Art Competition.

Since 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated in the nationwide contest, submitting portraits, illustrations, photographs and other media in hopes of representing their state in a rotating exhibit located below the U.S. Capitol.

Winners from each U.S. House of Representatives district are recognized in the year-long display.

The Democrat-Gazette spoke with the four Arkansas teenagers represented in this year's exhibit and discussed the inspiration behind their submissions.

STORY: Check out Arkansasonline.com for this story

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also follow what's happening in the nation's capital by checking me out on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

The U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Committee continues to move swiftly in considering Congress' annual appropriations measures.

The committee's Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Subcommittee approved a $90 billion measure covering programs under the Department of Transportation and the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark., serves as the subcommittee's chairman.

STORY: U.S. House appropriators set to consider Womack-led spending measure in July

The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee advanced its version of the Water Resources Development Act. Congress considers the legislation biennially to authorize U.S. Army Corps of Engineer projects and water-related research.

Reps. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., and Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., serve on the committee and supported moving forward with the bill.

STORY: U.S. House committee approves water resources measure

Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., and Katherine Andrews with the state Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism appeared before members of the House Natural Resources Committee to discuss a possible expansion of the Flatside Wilderness Area.

Hill, of Little Rock, introduced legislation last June to add more than 2,200 acres of the Ouachita National Forest to the protected wilderness.

STORY: Hill, Andrews pitch Flatside Wilderness expansion to U.S. House subcommittee

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also follow what's happening in the nation's capital by checking me out on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

The U.S. Capitol last week was rather quiet. The Senate did not make much legislative progress on the chamber floor, and members of the House of Representatives spent the week away from Washington, D.C.

Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., participated in an event focused on the United States' alliances and congressional participation in global affairs.

The nonpartisan McCain Institute hosted Boozman, of Rogers, and Sen. Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., for a panel discussing the anniversary of the D-Day invasion and the founding of NATO.

The international organization is comprised of the United States and 31 other countries focused on protecting North American and European interests. NATO will hold a summit in Washington, D.C., next month.

STORY: Boozman and Hassan discuss NATO’s importance, global alliances at McCain Institute panel

Thank you for listening to this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also follow what's happening in the nation's capital by checking me out on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

U.S. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., released Senate Republicans' framework of the next farm bill, another step in Congress' efforts to pass a sweeping legislative package addressing agricultural, rural development and nutrition issues during the current congressional session.

Boozman, of Rogers, serves as the top Republican on the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee.

The framework — which Boozman says emphasizes the agriculture portion of the farm bill — comes more than a month after Senate Agriculture Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., released an overview highlighting Democrats' priorities.

STORY: Boozman reveals farm bill framework as deadline for action nears

An Arkansas lawyer appeared before the Senate Finance Committee to address reports of abuse and neglect at residential treatment facilities, including centers in the Natural State.

Reagan Stanford, the abuse and neglect managing attorney for Disability Rights Arkansas, told senators the current care model is failing to help children, with methods instead promoting a dangerous environment.

The committee additionally released a 135-page report detailing the mistreatment of young people at these centers.

STORY: Arkansas disability advocate addresses lawmakers about reports of abuse in residential treatment centers

All four of Arkansas’ members in the U.S. House of Representatives signed a letter to Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough opposing the display of Pride flags at department facilities.

The Department of Veterans Affairs authorized the flags to be flown across the country during June — widely recognized as Pride month — to honor more than 1 million LGBTQ+ veterans and their families.

The lawmakers, however, contend this policy is an expression of a political leaning.

Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., addressed Margie Scott, the medical center director of the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, in a separate June 7 letter challenging the Pride flag at the Little Rock veterans hospital.

STORY: Arkansas’ U.S. House members want VA facilities to remove Pride flag authorized during June

STORY: Westerman once more challenges VA facilities over flying Pride flag

Thanks for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also follow what's happening in the nation's capital by checking me out on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

This is "Arkies in the Beltway" for the week of June 9, 2024. I'm Alex Thomas, Washington Correspondent for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, with your look at national politics and the Arkansans influencing the discussions.

As the Israel-Hamas war enters its eighth month, family members of American hostages continue pushing lawmakers and government officials to take action to get their loved ones back.

The Congressional Task Force on American Hostages and Americans Wrongfully Detained Abroad hosted a roundtable with family members and colleagues to discuss the war's ongoing impact.

U.S. Reps. French Hill, R-Ark., and Haley Stevens, D-Mich., serve as the task force's co-chairs.

STORY: Family members of Hamas hostages gather for Capitol Hill roundtable

Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson participated in a forum on the United States' response to the coronavirus pandemic and hurdles in addressing future health emergencies.

Hutchinson's final years as governor were dominated by the response to COVID-19. Arkansas was one of a few states never to have a stay-at-home order, even as officials recorded high case numbers.

STORY: Hutchinson reflects on his Arkansas covid policies, U.S. response during pandemic

U.S. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., helped lead a bipartisan Senate delegation to France to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion.

Boozman, of Rogers, and Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., were selected to lead the group given their seniority on the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee.

STORY: Boozman heads Senate trip commemorating D-Day

The House of Representatives advanced legislation to name the Kingsland post office after country music icon Johnny Cash.

Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., introduced the measure in January.

Cash was born in Kingsland in February 1932, although his family moved to Mississippi County three years later.

Cash, however, never forgot his South Arkansas roots. One notable instance happened in March 1994; he returned to Kingsland to celebrate the opening of a new post office, the same one that may soon bear his name.

STORY: U.S. House of Representatives passes bill to name Kingsland post office after Johnny Cash

Thanks for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also follow what's happening in the nation's capital by checking me out on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives used two congressional hearings to ask questions surrounding the March 19 raid at Little Rock airport official Bryan Malinowski's home and his subsequent death.

The House Judiciary Committee heard testimony on the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and how agents executed a search warrant at Malinowski's west Little Rock residence.

Malinowski, the executive director of the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport, had gained attention for his gun purchases and sales without a proper license. Malinowski family attorney Bryan Cummins told the committee that Malinowski collected guns as a hobbyist, noting he attended gun shows to display his firearm and coin collections.

STORY: Malinowski’s attorney appears before U.S. House subcommittee amid congressional interest in fatal March raid

STORY: ATF director mum about ongoing Malinowski investigation, notes funding problems in getting body cameras

The House Agriculture Committee took a step forward in trying to pass a new farm bill during this Congress.

The committee advanced the legislation during a lengthy markup that ended after midnight on Friday.

Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., was among the legislators who supported this move. Crawford, of Jonesboro, is the only Arkansas lawmaker who serves on the House Agriculture Committee.

STORY: U.S. House committee advances farm bill proposal; Crawford backs move

The full House passed comprehensive legislation addressing digital assets, such as cryptocurrencies.

The Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act sets new authorities for federal agencies in regulating digital assets and related transactions.

Seventy-one Democrats joined most Republicans to support the legislation.

Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., was one of the central figures in drafting and passing the bill.

STORY: U.S. House passes Hill measure confronting digital asset regulatory gaps

Thanks for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also follow what's happening in the nation's capital by checking me out on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

Arkansas' federal lawmakers backed the recent measure reauthorizing Federal Aviation Administration programs, with some members of the congressional delegation touting provisions impacting the Natural State.

President Joe Biden signed the $105 billion measure into law last Thursday, more than seven months after Congress was supposed to approve a five-year authorization bill.

STORY: Read the full story in the Sunday edition of the Democrat-Gazette

Reps. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., and Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., had a chance to press federal agency leaders about the ongoing response to the Francis Scott Key bridge collapse in Baltimore.

Crawford, of Jonesboro, and Westerman, of Hot Springs, raised questions during a House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing about the future build of a new bridge, sharing concerns about the federal government's share of the project's final cost and necessary environmental assessments.

STORY: Crawford, Westerman seek answers regarding future Baltimore bridge construction

Crawford took time last week to welcome explosive ordnance disposal technicians to Capitol Hill.

The congressional EOD Caucus held its annual "EOD Day on the Hill," recognizing military personnel and others involved in handling and removing explosives.

Crawford is one of the caucus' co-chairs. The congressman from Jonesboro served four years in the U.S. Army as an explosive ordnance disposal technician.

STORY: Read the full story in the Monday edition of the Democrat-Gazette

Thanks for listening to this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also follow what I'm covering in the nation's capital by checking me out on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

There was no bigger story on Capitol Hill last week for Arkansans than the unveiling of the new Daisy Bates statue at the U.S. Capitol.

Bates — the civil rights advocate best known for mentoring the Little Rock Nine students amid efforts to desegregate Central High School — became the first Arkansan in more than a century to be honored with a statue unveiling in the National Statuary Hall Collection.

She is the second Black individual to have a state-authorized statue on Capitol Hill; Florida gifted a sculpture of educator Mary McLeod Bethune to the collection in July 2022.

The move was one of two final steps in replacing Arkansas' previous statues recognizing Uriah Rose and James Paul Clarke. Officials hope to install a statue of musician Johnny Cash at the U.S. Capitol in the fall.

STORY: Arkansas, national leaders unveil Daisy Bates statue at U.S. Capitol

Thanks for listening to this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to keep up with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also stay up to date with what's happening in the nation's capital by following me online; my handle across all social media platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

The U.S. Capitol will be buzzing with excitement on Wednesday as lawmakers and Arkansans celebrate the unveiling of a new statue honoring civil rights activist Daisy Bates.

The Bates statue, to be located in National Statuary Hall, replaces one of Arkansas' former statues recognizing Uriah Rose.

Every state can contribute two statues to the U.S. Capitol's collection; a second statue of country music legend Johnny Cash will be installed later this year.

Check the Sunday edition of the Democrat-Gazette for the full story.

Months after Congress missed its original deadline for passing a new farm bill, federal lawmakers have released two outlines of proposed legislative packages.

Congress typically passes farm bills on a five-year cycle to address nutrition, rural development and agriculture programs, but lawmakers missed its deadline last September despite talks about the next measure's titles.

Republicans on the U.S. House of Representatives Agriculture Committee and Democrats on the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee put forward their respective plans, with House Republicans looking to mark its version up later this month.

STORY: Congressional committees release farm bill overviews with September deadline for action

Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark., traveled to Baltimore last Thursday to examine the site of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse and the related response efforts.

The trip was related to Womack's involvement on the House Appropriations Committee. The congressman from Rogers leads the subcommittee handling matters on transportation, housing and urban development.

Finally, the Senate confirmed the nomination of a former Sebastian County sheriff as the next U.S. marshal for the agency's Western District of Arkansas.

President Joe Biden nominated Gary Grimes in December for a four-year term. The Senate approved the nomination with a voice vote.

STORY: U.S. Senate confirms former Sebastian County sheriff for U.S. Marshal position

Thanks for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to keep up with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also stay up to date with what's happening in the nation's capital by following me online; my handle across all social media platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

After months of inaction and much talk on Capitol Hill, Congress finally passed an international aid package to assist Ukraine, Israel and the Indo-Pacific.

The U.S. House of Representatives approved the funding first, followed by the Senate three days later.

The package received strong bipartisan support in both chambers, including from members of Arkansas' congressional delegation.

STORY: Arkansas lawmakers highlight international aid importance in $95.3 billion package signed by Biden

One House committee chairman is seeking answers regarding the March 19 raid at Bryan Malinowski's home that led to the Little Rock airport executive director's death.

Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, sent a letter to Steven Dettelbach, the director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, regarding the operation at Malinowski's west Little Rock residence and ATF procedures for executing search warrants.

A federal affidavit related to the search warrant of Malinowski's home states he had purchased more than 150 firearms and resold guns without a firearm dealer's license.

Malinowski, the executive director of Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport, was shot in the head at least once during the raid. He died two days after the incident.

Jordan, the chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, requested the information after Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., asked the Ohioan to look into the case.

STORY: U.S. House Judiciary Committee chairman pushes for information surrounding fatal raid on Bryan Malinowski’s residence

Two Arkansas lawmakers in the House of Representatives are anticipating months and years of discussions surrounding the future rebuild of the Francis Scott Key Bridge near Baltimore.

Reps. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., and Steve Womack, R-Ark., are among the federal lawmakers whose committee work intersects with the response to the bridge collapse.

Crawford serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and Womack leads the House Appropriations Committee's subcommittee handling issues involving transportation, housing and urban development.

STORY: Crawford, Womack prepare for committee work on Baltimore bridge collapse

An Arkansan has joined President Joe Biden's reelection campaign as part of its communications team.

Adrienne Elrod, a Siloam Springs native, will work on the campaign as a senior adviser and spokesperson.

Elrod has built a resume with political experiences in Arkansas and Washington, D.C., including time with Hillary Clinton's two presidential campaigns.

STORY: Arkansas’ Adrienne Elrod joining Biden reelection team as senior adviser, spokesperson

Thank you for listening to this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to keep up with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also stay up to date with what's happening in the nation's capital by following me online; my handle across all social media platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

The U.S. Senate opted to drop impeachment charges against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.

Senators dismissed the two charges along party lines; Arkansas' senators — John Boozman of Rogers and Tom Cotton of Little Rock — joined fellow Republicans in opposing this move.

The House of Representatives impeached Mayorkas in February, alleging the secretary willfully refused to enforce immigration laws and committed a breach of trust.

Speaking of Cotton, the senator spent part of last week defending comments he made concerning Pro-Palestinian demonstrations.

Cotton called on private citizens to "take matters into their own hands" in situations involving protests blocking roadways.

The comments stem from demonstrators shutting down traffic in multiple major American cities in hopes of bringing attention to Palestine amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

STORY: Tom Cotton defends protest remarks calling on private citizens to ‘take matters into their own hands’

The House Natural Resources Committee has advanced legislation supporting state-led conservation work.

The America’s Wildlife Habitat Conservation Act would provide grants for supporting state wildlife habitat and conservation efforts.

Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., is the bill's lead sponsor. The Hot Springs congressman additionally serves as the committee's chairman.

Read the full story at arkansasonline.com.

Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark., has a new role on the House Appropriations Committee.

Womack of Rogers has accepted the title of chairman of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Subcommittee. The move was part of a series of internal leadership changes.

STORY: Womack embraces new appropriations role overseeing transportation, housing funds

Thank you for checking out this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to keep up with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also stay up to date with what's happening in the nation's capital by following me online; my handle across all social media platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

Plans are in motion to place two new statues of Arkansas icons at the U.S. Capitol.

Crews removed statues of Uriah Rose and James Paul Clarke on April 5 in anticipation of installing statues recognizing civil rights advocate Daisy Bates and musician Johnny Cash. 

The Bates statue will arrive at the U.S. Capitol next month with plans for an official unveiling on May 8. Officials are considering dates in September for a ceremony concerning the Cash statue.

STORY: Arkansas statues removed from U.S. Capitol in anticipation of Bates, Cash statues

Members of Congress returned to Capitol Hill last week after a two-week recess, and they did not waste much time in addressing some of their legislative priorities.

In the House of Representatives, lawmakers backed a bipartisan outdoor recreation package addressing recreational opportunities and related infrastructure. Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., and colleagues on the House Natural Resources Committee have championed the EXPLORE Act since its introduction last November.

STORY: U.S. House passes Westerman-led recreation bill, needs Senate approval

And from Congress' upper chamber, Republicans on the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee have a new bill addressing federal crop insurance coverage. The announcement of the FARMER Act comes amid ongoing talks about the next farm bill, a legislative package addressing nutrition, rural development and agriculture programs.

STORY: Boozman joins U.S. Senate Republicans on crop insurance proposal

Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., lauded Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida after the leader addressed Congress during his recent visit to the United States. 

Hill, of Little Rock, was part of the congressional Escort Committee ushering Kishida into the House chamber. The congressman has additionally prioritized the United States' relationships with its Asia-Pacific allies through his policy work.

STORY: Hill: Japan prime minister provides “outstanding” address on U.S. relationship

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to keep up with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also stay informed about what's happening in the nation's capital by following me online; my handle across all social media platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

Members of Congress have spent the last two weeks away from Capitol Hill conducting work in their states and districts. For this week's episode, we take a look back at some of the biggest political stories of the year so far pertaining to Arkansas, including:

— Congress finally completing its appropriations work six months after the fiscal year's start.

— Federal lawmakers approving new compacts with three Pacific Island nations, including the Marshall Islands.

— Ongoing work to pass a new farm bill.

— Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson's decision to suspend his presidential campaign.

Thanks for checking out this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to keep up with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also stay informed about what's happening in the nation's capital by following me online; my handle across all social media platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

As discussed during our March 24 episode, Congress approved the second spending package necessary for funding the rest of the federal government and avoiding a government shutdown through September.

The recent $1.2 trillion measure included funding for multiple projects in Arkansas, including steps to modernize Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith for its foreign military sales mission.

STORY: Latest budget approved by Congress last week contains millions of dollars for projects in Arkansas

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., recently traveled to El Salvador to get a glimpse of President Nayib Bukele's efforts addressing gang violence in the Central American nation.

Bukele and the Salvadoran government have enforced policies to curtail gangs, but this campaign has raised international concerns surrounding human rights violations.

Cotton, of Little Rock, has dismissed these criticisms, arguing that Bukele's approach has been an effective strategy in making El Salvador a safer country.

Check in at arkansasonline.com this weeked for the full story. 

Thanks again for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to keep up with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also stay informed about what's happening in the nation's capital by following me online; my social media handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

Congress has finally approved all 12 spending bills for the current fiscal year.

The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives passed a $1.2 trillion package to end last week. The legislation funds the Department of Defense as well as agencies related to homeland security, labor, education and health care.

Lawmakers approved a smaller $460 billion package earlier this month covering other matters.

With these two measures, Congress has completed its appropriations work for the current fiscal year, which began last October.

Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark., noted the timing of these votes last week during a House subcommittee hearing on President Joe Biden's budget proposal for fiscal year 2025.

STORY: Womack laments Congress’ budgeting delays as deadline nears for $1.2 trillion package

Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., has formally announced his intention to seek the top spot on the House Financial Services Committee.

The body oversees policies involving the U.S. banking system, the Federal Reserve, securities and exchanges, and housing-related issues.

Hill currently serves as the committee's vice chairman under Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., who is retiring from the House at the conclusion of the current Congress.

STORY: Hill notes experience as attribute in pursuit of Financial Services Committee chairman bid

Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin wants Congress to address hemp in the next farm bill, specifically language in the 2018 law.

Griffin and 20 other state attorneys general sent a letter to leaders of the Senate and House agriculture committees, in which the officials contend the most recent farm bill encouraged a nationwide proliferation of hemp products.

STORY: Arkansas’ Griffin, Indiana’s attorney general lead officials in calling for federal hemp changes

A record number of Arkansans have enrolled in the Affordable Care Act’s insurance marketplace.

According to recent federal data, more than 156,000 Arkansas residents purchased health insurance through marketplace plans during the most recent enrollment period, topping a record set during the prior term.

Health officials made the announcement in part to celebrate the 14th anniversary of then-President Barack Obama signing the Affordable Care Act into law.

STORY: 396,000 Arkansans enroll in health insurance marketplace, Medicaid expansion coverage

Thanks for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to keep up with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also stay informed about what's happening in the nation's capital by following me online; my social media handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

After federal lawmakers missed the initial deadline for approving a new compact with the Marshall Islands, Congress finally agreed to extend the relationship with the Pacific island nation as well as similar agreements with Micronesia and Palau.

Members of Congress approved new Compacts of Free Association with the three nations earlier this month as part of the $460 billion spending package averting a partial government shutdown.

Through the agreements, the United States can maintain a military presence in the Freely Associated States in exchange for providing the nations with economic and security assistance. 

The agreements also allow citizens of the island nations to live in the United States as lawful non-immigrants, including 8,300 Marshallese residing in Arkansas.

STORY: Recent federal spending package renews relationship with Marshall Islands, other Pacific island nations

Arkansas' delegates in the U.S. House of Representatives supported legislation to require TikTok's parent company to sell the social media platform or risk a nationwide ban.

Federal lawmakers have been vocal with their concerns about Chinese company Byte Dance, arguing the Chinese government can access Byte Dance's data — and information about American TikTok users — because the company is subject to Chinese national security law.

TikTok has insisted it stores the data of American users in the United States outside of China's authority.

A U.S. House of Representatives working group has released its final report detailing possible ways to improve the nation's agricultural workforce.

The bipartisan Agricultural Working Group's efforts coincided with increased use of the federal H-2A visa program allowing producers to hire foreign workers on a temporary basis.

Reps. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., and Don Davis, D-N.C., served as the working group's co-chairs.

STORY: Under Crawford’s leadership, U.S. House working group releases final report addressing agricultural labor woes

Thanks for listening to this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to keep up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also stay informed about what's happening in the nation's capital by following me online; my social media handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

Arkansas' federal lawmakers had cold responses to President Joe Biden's State of the Union address. Biden gave the third such address before a joint session of Congress last Thursday.

"I've had the opportunity to hear many State of the Unions through the years," Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., told the Democrat-Gazette. "I think that was the most partisan speech I had ever heard. It was like a Democratic campaign rally."

Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., said the president's remarks were directed toward making an impression on Biden's political base.

"It wasn't written to the rest of the country," the Hot Springs congressman added.

Some members of the delegation brought guests to the State of the Union. Boozman, for instance, invited Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy. Westerman had Albert McCoin, the congressman's former agriculture teacher, in the House chamber.

STORY: Arkansas’ federal lawmakers bringing guests to State of the Union

Congress approved a spending package averting a government shutdown. The measure — which included half of Congress' 12 annual appropriations bills — also directs funding for various projects across the country, including in Arkansas.

The Natural State's congressional delegation sought funds for an array of projects, including rehabilitation work on the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System and various local utility improvements.

STORY: Federal spending package includes millions of dollars for Arkansas projects

Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark., defeated his challenger in the 3rd Congressional District Republican primary.

Womack, of Rogers, captured 54% of the vote in last week's election, beating state Sen. Clint Penzo, R-Springdale, in the process.

"The motivated people for my opponent that have issues with me — in some cases, maybe several — I knew they were motivated to get out and vote," Womack told the Democrat-Gazette. "And they did, to their credit and to his credit."

Womack will face Democratic candidate Caitlin Draper in this November's general election.

Back on Capitol Hill, Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., has his sights on the next Congress.

Crawford, of Jonesboro, is seeking the top Republican spot on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

If House Republicans keep majority control after this year's election cycle, Crawford would serve as the committee's chairman come next January.

STORY: With months remaining in current Congress, Crawford seeks future Transportation and Infrastructure committee leadership role

Arkansas Farm Bureau members spent time last week in Washington.

County leaders met with the state's congressional delegation and federal officials to discuss multiple issues facing Arkansas producers. A central issue for the agriculture organization: passing a new farm bill during this Congress.

STORY: Arkansas agriculture leaders stress need for new farm bill during Capitol Hill visit

Thank you for listening to this week's "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to keep up to date with all Arkansas news at arkansasonline.com. You can also stay informed about what's happening in the nation's capital by following me online; my social media handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives have a plan for passing Congress' annual spending bill, ending this legislative body's cycle of passing stopgap funding measures extending current funding amounts.

Lawmakers will consider the first batch of measures this week with sights on passing the remaining appropriations bills by March 22.

Two of Arkansas' congressional delegates — Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., and Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark. — serve on Congress' appropriations committees.

STORY: Arkansas’ congressional delegates find optimism in ongoing spending saga

The Senate and House agriculture committees continue working on the next farm bill.

Boozman, of Rogers, serves as the top Republican on the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee.

He told the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette that Senate Republicans will release their "vision" of the next legislative package in the coming weeks.

STORY: Boozman: Senate Republicans’ framework for next farm bill in progress

The House Natural Resources Committee will begin consideration of legislation setting aside grants for state-led wildlife habitat conservation efforts.

Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., and House colleagues announced the America's Wildlife Habitat Conservation Act last Thursday; the measure would dedicate $320 million annually in grant funding for conservation programs.

Westerman is chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee.

STORY: ​U.S. House committee to start work on Westerman’s conservation bill​​​

Thanks for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to keep up to date with all Arkansas news at arkansasonline.com. You can also stay informed about what's happening in the nation's capital by following me online; my social media handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

Usually, the U.S. Capitol is a place bustling with legislative business, reporters working on stories, and tourists interested in the sights of Capitol Hill.

The halls of Congress, however, were devoid of this typical rush last week, as members of the Senate and House of Representatives spent time away from Washington, D.C., for the Presidents' Day holiday.

That is not to say Arkansas' congressional delegates were not busy.

Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark., co-helmed a letter to Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., concerning the United States' compacts with three Pacific Island nations. 

Congress has yet to approve new long-term agreements with the Marshall Islands and Micronesia, with a third compact with Palau set to expire in September.

Womack, of Rogers, has an interest in the matter as it pertains to his congressional district; thousands of Marshallese live in northwest Arkansas as lawful non-immigrants via the U.S.-Marshall Islands compact.

STORY: Womack joins lawmakers in push to renew agreements with Marshall Islands, other Pacific allies

One group is pressuring Womack to support a discharge petition related to the Senate's international aid package.

Senators approved the $95.3 billion measure before leaving Capitol Hill, but Johnson has not shared any urgency in considering the legislation. The Louisianan has instead criticized the Senate for failing to address security at the U.S.-Mexico border through the proposal.

The group Republicans for Ukraine want Womack and nine other House Republicans to consider backing a discharge petition, which would allow the House to consider the Senate's bill without needing leadership approval.

STORY: Pro-Ukraine group wants Womack’s help in bypassing challenge to Senate package

Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., has been named to a bipartisan task force on artificial intelligence.

The task force's formation occurs with high interest on Capitol Hill about AI and its safety.

Hill, of Little Rock, says AI has the potential to benefit consumers and businesses, yet he additionally recognizes the potential dangers posed by bad actors.

STORY: U.S. Rep. French Hill picked for bipartisan House artificial intelligence task force

Hundreds of Arkansans have seen their student loan debts erased in part or completely.

President Joe Biden announced last week his administration has canceled $1.2 billion in federal student loan debt, a move affecting nearly 1,200 Arkansans with $8.7 million left in payments.

Check the Sunday edition of the Democrat-Gazette for the full story.

Thanks for listening to this week's "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all Arkansas news at https://www.arkansasonline.com. You can also stay informed about happenings in the nation's capital; my social media handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

The U.S. Senate approved its $95.3 billion security package last Tuesday. The legislation includes billions of dollars in assistance for Ukraine, Israel and the United States' partners in the Indo-Pacific.

Arkansas' U.S. senators were split on the matter.

Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., supported passage, describing the measure as the first step in ensuring the United States continues to deliver "strong, reliable and resolute American leadership" worldwide.

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., opposed the bill. The senator from Little Rock criticized the legislation for its lack of language addressing border security and some funding directed toward non-defense needs.

STORY: Boozman supports, Cotton opposes U.S. Senate aid package

Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., emphasized the importance of the United States' support for Ukraine in an interview with the Democrat-Gazette.

Hill, of Little Rock, was part of a bipartisan House delegation that traveled to Ukraine earlier this month to hear from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy about the country's ongoing war against Russia.

STORY: Hill: U.S. must ‘draw a line,’ continue Ukraine support

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack appeared before the House Agriculture Committee for a hearing, during which the secretary faced questions regarding issues facing agricultural producers.

One committee member — Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark. — used the hearing to ask industry-related questions, including one point pertaining to temporary labor.

STORY: Crawford presents Vilsack with questions on agricultural wages, projects

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas on arkansasonline.com. Stay informed about happenings in the nation's capital; my social media handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas. 

The U.S. House of Representatives failed to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. House Republicans put forward two articles of impeachment against Mayorkas over the Biden administration's handling of immigration and border-related issues, but failed to unify during last Tuesday's vote.

All four of Arkansas' House members joined a majority of their fellow Republicans in supporting the Mayorkas impeachment effort.

STORY: Arkansas’ U.S. House members back failed Mayorkas impeachment

The Senate is spending the weekend continuing work on a security package covering assistance to Ukraine, Israel and Indo-Pacific partners.

Senators rejected a larger package with a bipartisan plan addressing the U.S.-Mexico border and the number of migrants entering the country illegally.

Sens. John Boozman, of Rogers, and Tom Cotton, of Little Rock, opposed moving forward with the larger proposal, as well as advancing the international aid bill.

STORY: Boozman, Cotton oppose Senate bills on U.S. border, overseas aid

New research shows thousands of Arkansas families could benefit from proposed changes to the federal child tax credit.

The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities — a research institute based in Washington, D.C. — recently released data showing that possible enhancements to the existing offering could affect 191,000 Arkansas children currently not eligible for the full tax credit.

The potential modifications are part of the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act, which the House has already passed.

Check the Sunday edition of the Democrat-Gazette for the full story.

Finally, Miss America Madison Marsh spent part of last week at the U.S. Capitol.

Marsh's stop happened less than a month after the Fort Smith native received the crown in the nationwide competition.

STORY: Miss America, a Fort Smith native, pushes for increased pancreatic cancer research

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" Stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at https://www.arkansasonline.com. Stay informed about happenings in the nation's capital; my social media handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas. 

U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., caught the attention of many political observers following last week's Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, during which Cotton spent his allotted time grilling TikTok CEO Shou Chew.

The senator from Little Rock has been a longstanding critic of TikTok. He used his question period to press Chew about the platform's ties to China and even Chew's own business experiences.

STORY: Cotton uses hearing on children’s online safety to grill TikTok CEO over ties to China

Johnny Cash is set to be honored in the U.S. Capitol in the coming months with a statue, but another honor may be in store for the late country music icon.

Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., is leading a legislative effort to redesignate the Kingsland post office for Cash. Westerman of Hot Springs introduced the related legislation just weeks shy of the 30th anniversary of Cash helping dedicate the post office upon its opening.

STORY: Federal effort would rename Kingsland post office for Johnny Cash

The Federal Election Commission has received multiple financial reports from Arkansans seeking national office.

Arkansas has only one contested congressional primary in the March 5 primary; Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark., is facing a challenge from state Sen. Clint Penzo, R-Springdale.

The Womack campaign ended last calendar year with a significant financial advantage over Penzo; the Womack camp reported $2.3 million in its reserves, while the Penzo campaign ended 2023 with nearly $44,000 in cash on hand.

STORY: Womack’s 3rd District campaign has $2.3M on hand; challenger Penzo reports nearly $44,000

Thanks for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" Check out arkansasonline.com for more news about the Natural State, and feel free to follow me on social media at the handle @AlexHouseThomas for news from Washington, D.C.!

It was a rather low-key week at the U.S. Capitol as the Senate considered nominations and members of the House of Representatives conducted business away from Capitol Hill. 

Arkansas' senators, however, remained busy.

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., helped introduce legislation — the Farm and Food Cybersecurity Act — to require studies of cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities to the nation's agriculture and food production systems.

STORY: Cotton introduces bill to study cybersecurity risks for U.S. agriculture

Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., and Senate colleagues celebrated the work of school choice advocates with a reception at the U.S. Capitol.

STORY: Boozman joins fellow U.S. senators in celebrating school choice

Arkansas' congressional delegation joined Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders' call supporting Texas as that state continues its border security challenge to the Biden administration. The rift follows a U.S. Supreme Court ruling against Texas' immigration policies at the U.S.-Mexico border.

STORY: Arkansas governor, lawmakers side with Texas on right to ‘defend’ southern border

Thank you for checking out this week's "Arkies in the Beltway!" Stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can get in touch with me on social media; my handle on all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson has left the campaign trail.

Hutchinson — who served as Arkansas' governor from January 2015 to January 2023 — suspended his presidential bid after a sixth-place finish in the Iowa caucuses. He spoke to the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette about his White House run.

STORY: Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson suspends campaign, ends presidential bid

STORY: White House apologizes to Hutchinson over Democratic National Committee’s statement scoffing at his campaign

On Capitol Hill, lawmakers have granted themselves more time to consider annual appropriations measures.

The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives passed a continuing resolution last Thursday to avoid a partial government shutdown. These short-term funding measures, while keeping the government open, do not include new spending for agencies or programs.

STORY: Arkansas’ congressional delegates weary of repeated shutdown aversions

Thanks for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" Stay up to date with all Arkansas news at arkansasonline.com. You can get in touch with me on social media; my handle on all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

The new year has been busy so far.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., led a coalition of lawmakers to the southern border to begin 2024. Congressional Republicans continue to press the Biden administration to implement stricter immigration policies.

Arkansas Reps. Rick Crawford and French Hill joined their Republican colleagues on the trip.

STORY: Crawford, Hill part of GOP border trip urging stricter immigration policies

Hill, of Little Rock, received a commitment from the head of the Department of Housing and Urban Development about solving housing issues in Little Rock.

Secretary Marcia Fudge appeared before the House Financial Services Committee last Thursday, during which Hill asked about problems within the Little Rock housing authority.

STORY: HUD secretary promises solutions addressing Little Rock housing authority problems

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., wants more information about Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's recent hospitalization.

Cotton, of Little Rock, joined Republican members of the Senate Armed Services Committee on a letter requesting answers regarding the secrecy surrounding Austin's treatment for prostate cancer.

STORY: Cotton, U.S. Senate colleagues seek answers regarding Austin’s hospitalization

Arkansas' U.S. senators honored the Harding University football program last week on the Senate floor.

Cotton and Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., introduced a resolution commending the Bisons for their NCAA Division II national championship and 15-0 record.

STORY: Boozman, Cotton recognize Harding for championship performance

Thanks for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Stay up to date with all Arkansas news at arkansasonline.com. You can get in touch with me on social media; my handle on all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

I'm Alex Thomas, the Democrat-Gazette's Washington Correspondent.

It's difficult to select a singular word to describe the U.S. House of Representatives' year. House Republicans took majority control in January, but most of the headlines throughout the year concerned the caucus' challenges in passing legislation and moves that twice left the chamber without a speaker.

On this week's episode, we hear from Arkansas' House delegates to get a better understanding of how they handled this historic year on Capitol Hill.

Read the full story in the Christmas edition of the Democrat-Gazette.

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" Stay up to date with all Arkansas news at arkansasonline.com. You can get in touch with me on social media; my handle on all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives last week overwhelmingly approved Congress' annual defense package. The $886.3 billion National Defense Authorization Act includes multiple provisions regarding military-related construction and munition procurement, impacting sites in Arkansas like Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith and Highland Industrial Park in Camden.

The entire Arkansas congressional delegation supported the defense legislation.

STORY: Arkansas’ congressmen tout state projects in defense bill

Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., led a discussion concerning China's growing influence in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence helped organize the panel as part of the committee's Beyond the SCIF events series. Crawford, of Jonesboro, and Rep. French Hill, R-Ark., serve on the committee.

STORY: Crawford focuses discussion on China’s influence in Latin America, Caribbean

A legislative effort by Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., has reached its final destination.

The House passed the Duck Stamp Modernization Act last week, months after the Senate passed the bill. President Joe Biden will next consider the legislation.

The measure allows duck hunters to carry electronic duck stamps while hunting instead of a physical document.

Boozman introduced the Duck Stamp Modernization Act in the Senate in March.

Check the Sunday edition of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for this story.

Thank you for listening to this week's edition of "Arkies in the Beltway!" Stay up to date with all Arkansas news at arkansasonline.com. You can get in touch with me on social media; my handle on all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

The National Association of Christian Lawmakers held its annual meeting and awards gala last week at the Museum of the Bible in Washington.

The Conway-based organization focuses on uniting local, state and federal lawmakers on policies addressing issues through a Biblical worldview.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., received the organization's American Patriot Award for Christian Honor and Courage during Tuesday's awards ceremony, but reporters were told to leave before Johnson addressed attendees.

STORY: Arkansas-based Christian lawmaker group honors U.S. House speaker

U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., is among the congressional Republicans urging the White House and Democrat lawmakers to do more to address immigration and security at the U.S.-Mexico border.

The matter of border security is a sticking point in Congress' efforts to pass a sweeping security package before legislators begin their holiday recess.

STORY: Cotton: Biden, Democrats need to make compromises on border security

Cotton and Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark., have introduced legislation to ban the sale of unwashed poppy seeds.

The Stephen Hacala Poppy Seed Safety Act honors Stephen Hacala, a 24-year-old Fayetteville man who died in April 2016 after consuming tea contaminated with unwashed poppy seeds.

STORY: Cotton, Womack lead second effort to ban sale of unwashed poppy seeds

Womack, of Rogers, extended his streak of the most consecutive votes by an active member of the House of Representatives.

The congressman reached 8,000 successive votes last week, yet he acknowledged to the Democrat-Gazette that he doesn't spend much time thinking about the record.

STORY: Womack reaches 8,000 consecutive votes, extends longest active streak

Thank you for checking out this week's episode of "Arkies in the Beltway!" Stay up to date with all Arkansas news at arkansasonline.com. You can get in touch with me on social media; my handle on all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.

The U.S. House of Representatives ended last week with a historic vote to expel New York Republican George Santos from the chamber.

The House had only removed five members from the chamber throughout its history ahead of Friday's vote.

Two Arkansans — Representatives Steve Womack of Rogers and Bruce Westerman and Hot Springs — supported the expulsion resolution.

STORY: Steve Womack, Bruce Westerman vote for removing George Santos from U.S. House

Speaking of Womack, he is among the lawmakers pushing for creating a commission to study the United States' financial stability and fiscal sustainability.

Womack testified before the House Budget Committee last Wednesday on proposed options for addressing federal spending and the national deficit.

STORY: Arkansas’ U.S. Rep. Womack calls for commission to study federal finances

The House Natural Resources Committee is making progress on a bipartisan outdoor reaction package.

Committee members began consideration of the EXPLORE Act last Thursday.

Westerman helped introduce the legislation. The Hot Springs Republican additionally serves as the committee's chairman.

STORY: Westerman-led committee begins work on bipartisan outdoor recreation package

Finally, the Democrat-Gazette had a conversation with Womack regarding his recent trip to Antarctica.

Womack led a congressional delegation on the week-long outing to better understand the research happening on the southernmost continent.

Check out Monday's edition of the Democrat-Gazette for the full story.

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Stay up to date with all Arkansas news at arkansasonline.com. You can get in touch with me on social media; my handle on all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas