Death of Bin Laden…
As a former National Guard commander who deployed in the wake of September 11, I considered Sunday night’s news that 9/11 architect and terrorist leader, Osama bin Laden, had been killed as a great achievement.
The successful elimination of Bin Laden is a victory for our nation, those personally affected by 9/11 and the ensuing war on terror, as well as the free world. I congratulate the brave members of our military who made this news possible and who selflessly serve the cause of freedom around the world.
On September 11, 2001, our country was tested in an unprecedented way. However, nearly ten years later, I know that we are a stronger people and a safer nation. If 9/11 was the test, let 5/1 be considered the day we set the curve.
Turning Up The HEAT…
There is no question that higher energy prices are having an impact on American families and business. Our nation needs a common sense approach to solving the energy challenges of our nation, which is why I am excited to join Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), Chief Deputy Whip Peter Roskam (R-IL), Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI) and Natural Resources Committee Chairman Doc Hastings (R-WA) to announce the creation of the House Energy Action Team (
HEAT).
When I came to Congress, I wanted to be a voice for the Third District and opportunities like this are doing just that—giving my constituents a ‘seat at the table’ with leadership on issues vital to economic recovery and job creation.
Dependence on foreign oil remains not only a major economic issue, but one with national security implications as well. For months I have been preaching that uncertainty is undermining our ability to create jobs and there is little doubt that rising energy prices are contributing to that uncertainty.
Members of HEAT will promote Republican energy policies—addressing rising costs, creating thousands of jobs while advancing America’s energy independence. We can do better. We must do better.
Speaking Of…
This past week, I voted in favor of H.R. 1230, the Restarting American Offshore Leasing Now Act. While exploring alternative energy is a must, I believe the American people need a break now from the high fuel prices. If we have resources here—in our own backyard—it would be a mistake not to utilize them. Drilling for oil locally presents a great opportunity to tap into our country’s fuel supply while relieving some of the financial burden on the backs of citizens.
My Republican colleagues and I will be taking another step this week in easing the pain at the pump when we vote to overturn the president’s moratorium on offshore drilling. This is the right decision and according to recent polls, a majority of Americans agree.
Chick-fil-A Leadercast…
It was a tremendous honor to be a part of Friday’s Chick-fil-A Leadercast in Van Buren, where I had the privilege to address those in attendance.
The simulcast at First Baptist was a huge success with more than 300 tickets sold. The Leadercast featured 11 internationally renowned speakers who spoke to an eager River Valley audience.
As your Congressman, it is truly a great sight to see local business and community leaders who aren’t satisfied with “good enough”, but who are constantly looking for ways to improve on management skills in their respective fields.
Again, thank you for the opportunity and I look forward to an even bigger crowd in 2012.
And The Winner Is…
My office recently hosted the 2011 Congressional Art Competition.
39 very talented students from across the Third District participated in this year’s contest.
The winner, Catherine Joo, a senior and foreign exchange student at Fort Smith Southside, will have her artwork displayed for one year in the Nations’ Capitol for all to see. On Friday, I had the opportunity to present Catherine with a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition at Southside.
Congratulations Catherine and thanks to everyone who made this year’s competition a success.
YouTube…
If you have a chance this week, please check out my YouTube page. This site is constantly being updated with news interviews, special videos and updates from me.
Memorial Day Project…
My office is working on a special project to remember the brave men and women who gave their lives to protect our freedoms, and we need your help.
If you have pictures or videos of loved ones who died fighting for this country, send them to my communication director, J.R. Davis, at JR.Davis@mail.house.gov.
Also, send a short video of yourself talking about that family member or friend and tell us what it means to be an American (in 30 seconds or less).
On Memorial Day, May 30th, we’ll be launching the video on our YouTube and Facebook pages.
Thank you for your help and your sacrifice. This will be a great way to remember America’s fallen—the way they should be.
Tele-Town Hall…
I will be hosting a Tele-Town Hall this Monday at 6:30 pm CST. If you would like to participate or you know someone who would, please use the information below to join in the discussion.
I feel it’s important to hear from you and answer questions or address any concerns that you may have.
6PM CST
Call In Number: (877) 229-8493
Passcode 17688
Enjoy the rest of your weekend and we’ll talk again next week.
U.S. Congressman
Steve Womack
Serving the Third District of Arkansas
