House Republicans have worked tirelessly this Congress to deliver for the American people. The accomplishments of Republicans prior to this August recess underscore our commitment to America’s founding principles of individual rights, economic stability, national security, and responsible governance. By fighting against President Biden’s radical energy policies, strengthening our national security, reigning in government spending, and increasing accountability, House Republicans have demonstrated our dedication to fostering a more prosperous, safe and secure nation.
For two years, Americans suffered the consequences of President Biden’s reckless and misguided energy policies. Low to middle-income hard-working families are bearing the brunt of Biden’s all-out war on domestic fuel production which led to record inflation, weakened our national security, and constrained American energy production. House Republicans passed H.R. 1, the Lower Energy Costs Act, the first pro-energy permitting reform in 40 years, to empower our producers to deliver the affordable and reliable energy that our country needs to thrive.
House Republicans also worked hard this Congress to deliver on our nation’s commitment to honor our nation’s service members. This included a 5.2% pay increase, the largest pay raise in decades, and major investments in quality-of-life improvements, which were critical steps toward supporting our troops and tackling the ongoing recruiting crisis in our military. We also ensured our service members who were discharged for refusing to take the COVID vaccine would have a clear pathway back to military service.
Veterans have also been a top priority for House Republicans, as we fully funded Veterans healthcare and benefits. As a 24-year Army veteran and as Chairwoman of the Veterans Affairs Committee’s Subcommittee on Health, I am proud of our accomplishments and continued support for those who selflessly serve to defend our values and constitution at home and abroad.
House Republicans also passed the Fiscal Responsibility Act, the largest spending reform in over a decade, cutting ~$2.1-2.3 trillion in reckless government spending and limiting the annual growth of spending to 1% over the next 6 years. This legislation clawed back $28 billion of unspent COVID funds and slashed $400 million from the CDC’s “Global Health Fund” that was being sent directly to the Chinese Communist Party. It also included work requirement expansion for food stamps, and key NEPA reforms to streamline our energy projects. This was a major step in the right direction to address our out-of-control spending addiction which led to higher prices and interest rates and it set the table for future spending reforms to protect taxpayers, ensure economic growth, and address our budget debt responsibly.
These are only a few highlights in a long list of accomplishments from House Republicans this Congress. We believe in the principles that have guided our nation’s prosperity and are determined to continue fighting for policies that uplift every citizen and create an environment where all Americans can thrive.
Mariannette Miller-Meeks currently represents Iowa’s First District in the United States House of Representatives.
Following through on our commitment to America
Mariannette Miller-Meeks
August 16, 2023