WASHINGTON D.C. – With Congress out of session for most of August, I had the opportunity to travel extensively around the state and visit with folks in communities across Wyoming. I also made my third trip to the Mexican border.

On August 1st, I went to the Border Patrol station at McAllen, Texas with a bipartisan group of senators. We inspected the facilities where many of the young, illegal immigrants from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador are currently being held and processed. All at the facility are treated well and had clean living arrangements.

Many of these illegal immigrants are placed with relatives in the U.S. rather than being sent back home. The Obama Administration does not even verify if the relatives are in the U.S. legally. When they are released, they are given a paper notice to appear for a hearing. What we’re seeing is that many of them never intend to show up for that hearing and disappear into our country. I believe we should treat these minors humanely and return them to their home country immediately. If we don’t do this, we’ll continue to send the wrong message that it’s ok to come to our country illegally.

Americans Deserve New, Accurate Information on Obamacare Enrollment

The President’s health care law continues to be unpopular in Wyoming, and for good reason. Wyoming families and small businesses are being hit with higher premiums, higher co-pays and less access to care. On August 27th, I wrote the Obama Administration calling on them to provide Congress and the American people with new and accurate information about the number of people who are enrolled in Obamacare exchange coverage.

Recent investigations by the non-partisan Government Accountability Office (GAO) and others call into question the accuracy of the enrollment figures trumpeted by the White House in May. Americans deserve to know what type of plans individuals have enrolled in, who paid and did not pay their premiums, and which individuals have had their coverage cancelled because of this flawed law. These enrollment numbers matter because if the Administration doesn’t hit their target numbers, people in Wyoming will have to pay even more to prop up this massive government program. 

At Home in Wyoming

In August, I’ve had the opportunity to attend multiple events across the state, including meeting with folks and attending community events in Afton, Buffalo, Cody, Douglas, Dubois, Cheyenne, Casper, Green River, Greybull, Jackson, Powell, Rock Springs and Thermopolis.

One of the most important parts of my job is to listen to and learn from the thoughts, ideas and concerns of people in Wyoming. Whether it’s at the county or state fair, parade, rodeo, or local barbeque, I appreciate that many of you have taken the time to share with me your experiences, opinions and great ideas. It’s your input that helps me make the most informed decisions possible on issues that directly impact Wyoming.

Looking Ahead to September

In September, the Senate will return to session and continue debate on appropriation bills for the new budget year that begins on October 1st. Congress will also likely hold critical hearings on how we can strengthen our position abroad, including in Iraq.

If you or someone you know will visit Washington this fall, please let me know. I’d enjoy meeting with you in the office and scheduling a tour of the U.S. Capitol.