On Jan. 3, I placed my hand on our family Bible and took the U.S. Senators’ oath of office. Serving Mississippi in this capacity is an incredible privilege. The opportunity continues to be among the greatest honors of my life.
As I begin a new term, my priorities remain the same. I want to deliver tangible results for the people of Mississippi. I want to help restore American military strength so we can take on the challenges of the 21st century. Through it all, I will do my best to uphold the American values that have made our country remarkable for these two-and-a-half centuries.
Delivering Results for Mississippi
Mississippi is brimming with potential, and I will continue connecting federal resources with state and local development efforts. Over the years, I have secured funding for improvements to our roadways, bridges, airports, waterways, and more. I have worked to bring Mississippi $2 billion for broadband expansion – a resource we absolutely need to attract jobs and retain talent. In the CHIPS and Science Act, I fought to increase the research funding our universities would receive, adding to the cycle of growth and innovation happening across the state. I have also worked to kick-start projects that the federal government had neglected, such as the Yazoo Backwater Area flood control project or the revival of Gulf Coast rail.
Each of these initiatives represents a down payment on our future. As we invest in Mississippi’s transportation, broadband, and education systems, we make the state competitive for the long term.
Rebuilding America’s Military
As I have been promoting Mississippi’s commerce, I have been working to secure the peace that makes prosperity possible. In this Congress, I will lead the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, and the role will allow me to help “provide for the common defense.” Lawmakers on the Armed Services Committee work closely with military officials – sometimes on a classified basis. Then, we draft the legislation that empowers the armed forces to defend against dangers the country faces.
Brutal dictators control China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, and they are growing increasingly aggressive. Our national defense is not prepared to counter these threats. To deter our adversaries from moving against us, we must rebuild our weakening military. That work begins at the federal level with Congress’ action. As always, Mississippi will remain a critical part of the effort through our network of military installations, shipbuilders, munitions manufacturers, and technology developers.
Leading Through American Principles
Mississippians have charged me not only to deliver results and promote security but also to represent our state’s values at the federal level.
I will continue reflecting Mississippi’s commitments, beginning with the cause of life. When I served in the Mississippi State Senate, I authored legislation that led to a statewide 24-hour waiting period for abortions. As a U.S. Senator, I submitted a legal brief in support of a Mississippi clinic whose case led to the reversal of Roe v Wade. I have worked to make international adoptions easier, helping couples open their homes to children in need.
When Congress has had the chance to support America’s entrepreneurs and small businesses, I have enthusiastically participated. By cutting taxes and red tape, we have helped employers invest in staff, improve products, and create more jobs.
All of these initiatives are consistent with the system our founders established. In the Constitution, they created a series of checks and balances – preventing anyone from consolidating power and ensuring that citizens have a voice. That freedom has led the United States to remarkable heights, and I am grateful to play my part in continuing that legacy.
Note: This article is the weekly Wicker Report from U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, written by the Senator and provided by his office. Any opinions expressed here are that of the author and not necessarily that of this publication.
