Breast cancer does not discriminate — not based on age, not based on gender, and certainly not based on political affiliation. From both my personal connections to cancer and the stories I hear from constituents who I meet with, it is clear that we must do more. For those individuals gracious enough to share their breast cancer experiences with me, our conversations only solidified the importance of finding a cure. For example, a member of my staff beat cancer at age 23 in part because she was a... Read more

Every child deserves a safe and stable place to call home. Yet, too many young people are living day-to-day in motels or doubled-up in the homes of family, friends, or strangers. This lack of stable housing for our kids cannot be overlooked, even as millions are “invisibly homeless.” While they may not be living on the streets, homelessness in any form hinders their ability to succeed in school, to build a strong future, and to live healthy lives. To combat this problem, it’s going to take a res... Read more

There are many things that make me proud to be an Ohioan, but our infant mortality rate is not one of them. The Buckeye State has the unfortunate distinction of ranking eighth for highest number of infant deaths. We can, and we must, do more to implement comprehensive policies that will ensure safe deliveries for mothers and a strong start for babies. Unfortunately, the United States is the only developed country whose maternal mortality rates continue to rise; globally, maternal mortality conti... Read more

“I’m living now, I’m really living.” That’s how Walter Parker describes life since he was paired with his service dog, Jackson, six years ago. In 1967, Walter deployed to Vietnam and returned home with physical and invisible wounds, including post-traumatic stress (PTS), that took a toll on not only him, but his family and loved ones. For over 40 years, Walter was essentially homebound, unable to speak with people, and struggling with suicidal thoughts. Now, thanks to Jackson, he’s not only able... Read more

Ohio’s 15th Congressional District has more than its fair share of colleges, universities, and career and technical training centers. From four-year universities like Ohio University and The Ohio State University, to community colleges and technical career centers like Hocking College and the Tri-County Career Center, students in Central and Southeast Ohio have plenty of options to pursue education and chase their American Dream. I’ve recently had the opportunity to meet with students, and acros... Read more

During Operation Iraqi Freedom, I had the honor to serve alongside incredible soldiers who were prepared to make huge sacrifices for the United States and our freedoms. Men and women alike were willing to take on enormous risks for our cause, some of whom were not even U.S. citizens. Nonetheless, they stood, shoulder to shoulder, alongside one another to defend our liberties. Now, as a Member of Congress, one of my top priorities is to make sure that the promises made to my fellow veterans in ex... Read more

This week, we recognize National Obesity Care Week. This is an epidemic that impacts more than 90 million Americans. It’s not a subject that’s discussed often, but we should support those who are striving to overcome obesity. Much like mental illness, obesity often carries a stigma that prevents people from seeking help. We can break down those barriers if we confront this nationwide challenge. It is an issue that is not going away. In fact, the obesity rate in 2016 was at an all-time high, acco... Read more

When I put on my uniform to serve as a Brigadier General with the Ohio National Guard, I see firsthand the various challenges that other brave men and women encounter while protecting our nation. Time and time again, the invisible challenges of post-traumatic stress (PTS) and other mental illnesses impact my fellow servicemembers, and it is our duty as Members of Congress to provide the specified care for our warriors that they need and deserve. As we recognize Suicide Prevention Awareness Mont... Read more

I am incredibly proud to represent Central Ohio. It is the home to so many incredible innovations that impact not just Ohioans, but all Americans. Take, for example, the advancements made in biomedical research at institutions like Nationwide Children’s Hospital and the Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University. I recently had the opportunity to meet with members of both organizations during the August District Work Period, and it only reinforced the importance of their work to finding... Read more

For over three decades, I have served alongside incredibly brave women in the Ohio Army National Guard who continue to put their lives on the line for our country. However, these women should not needlessly put their health on the line when we can prevent it. The number of women joining the military continues to increase; it is estimated that there will be over two million female veterans by next year. I am glad that more women are not only joining the military, but achieving more leadership rol... Read more