Blog: Weekly Wrap-Up: April 29, 2014-May 2, 2014

Statement

Arkansas Will Come Out Stronger

On Sunday, much of central Arkansas was devastated by severe storms. 15 people tragically lost their lives and many more saw their homes and neighborhoods destroyed. The communities of Mayflower and Vilonia were particularly hard hit. But Arkansans are strong, tough people and together we will come out stronger. On Tuesday, I spoke on the House Floor asking for prayers for those impacted by these terrible storms and was proud to join my colleagues from Arkansas, Mississippi, and Kansas on the House floor as fellow Arkansas Congressman Rick Crawford (AR-01) led the House of Representatives in moment of silence. The Arkansas Congressional delegation also sent letters to President Obama and FEMA Administrator Fugate supporting Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe's request for a major disaster declaration for Faulkner County. I was pleased to see FEMA act quickly and grant this disaster declaration. Please join me in continuing to pray for those who were impacted by these terrible storms.

National Day of Prayer

Thursday marked the National Day of Prayer. By an official designation of Congress, this annual observance takes place on the first Thursday of May. One of my favorite Bible verses from Timothy says, "I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing.' I ask all Americans to join me in prayerful reflection not just on the National Day of Prayer, but every day. Click here for my full statement.

The United States Must Continue to Stand with Israel

Recently, Secretary of State John Kerry made comments referring to Israel as an "Apartheid state." These comments were inflammatory and inaccurate. Israel is a strong democratic ally in the Middle East and we must continue to stand with them. At a minimum, Secretary Kerry should apologize for his remarks. My full statement can be read here.

Financial Services Committee

This week, the House Financial Services Committee held an oversight hearing on the Security and Exchange Commission's (SEC) annual budget request. SEC Chairman May Jo White was the only witness. In spite of the SEC's questionable record in the run-up to the financial crisis and its aftermath, the Dodd- Frank Act rewarded the agency with more power, more authority and more money. The best way to protect investors is with competitive markets that encourage innovation and capital formation, give investors transparency and certainty, and prevent fraud through the vigorous enforcement of existing laws.

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