Summary

Kansas Common Sense Happy Mother’s Day May 11 2026 Happy Mother’s Day To all moms in our lives, thank you for the love, care and guidance you provide for your families. I’d also like to wish a happy Mother’s Day to my wife, Robba. Discussing the Importance of U.S.-China Trade This week, I traveled with a bipartisan group of my Senate colleagues to China where we were hosted by U.S. Ambassador to China David Perdue. We met with the Premier of China, the Chinese Foreign Minister and the head of China’s legislature to discuss the importance of robust trade between our two countries ahead of President Trump’s planned presidential summit with Chinese President Xi in Beijing. At a time when farmers and producers in Kansas and across the country are facing low commodity prices and high input costs, increasing fair trade with China will help bolster our agricultural industry as they continue to feed, fuel and clothe the world. We discussed the importance of opening China’s markets to accept more U.S. agricultural exports, including grain sorghum, wheat, soybeans and beef, and ensuring China abides by our trade agreements. We also discussed the importance of cooperation to stop the flow of fentanyl precursors, ensure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, boosting aviation exports to China and supply chain security. The conversations with Chinese leaders ahead of the President Trump’s visit projected confidence in reaching a trade deal that is beneficial to both countries. Discussing Ag Trade on Kansas Radio This week, I joined Greg Akagi on WIBW Ag radio and Chip Flory on AgriTalk radio to discuss agricultural trade negotiations between the U.S. and China, as well as the importance of access to expanded commodity markets for Kansas farmers and producers. Before the congressional delegation’s trip to China, I spoke with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer about the administration’s efforts to strengthen markets for American agricultural producers. While I support the administration finding new trade partners and strengthening existing agreements to lessen the U.S.’s dependence on China, as one of the largest economies in the world, China cannot be ignored. You can listen to my interview with Greg Akagi on WIBW here and my interview with Chip Flory on AgriTalk here. Update on U.S. Military Operation in Iran Since the conflict began, I have asked, both publicly and in classified settings, for information regarding what has been accomplished in Iran, our current military posture and what is necessary for victory. Congress – and the American people – have not been adequately informed. Decisions by Congress regarding Iran are complicated by American troops in harm’s way and a desire to be certain Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon. I continue to consult with other senators on an Authorization for Use of Military Force or invocation of the War Powers Act. I also understand the American people are facing the consequences of the war as costs for fuel and other commodities surge. I am particularly troubled that, at a time when Kansas farmers are encountering a challenging ag economy, compounded by tariffs and closed markets, the cost of this war may bring greater challenges to U.S. agriculture. Finally, though not a veteran, a significant amount of my time in public service has been devoted to caring for those who suffer from the scars of battle, and I am concerned about the post-service mental and physical health of those who serve. As the standoff over the strait continues, the sanctions waiver on Russian oil sales is set to expire Saturday, and I renew my call for the administration to resume enforcing sanctions and deprive Russia of revenue that permits Vladimir Putin to continue his unjust war against Ukraine. Introducing Legislation to Equip Parents to Better Protect Minors Online I recently introduced the Parents Over Platforms Act with Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.). This bipartisan legislation would require app stores and developers to establish safeguards that strengthen protections for minors downloading apps online and provide parents with more tools to moderate children’s online access. Requiring app stores and app developers to put safeguards in place will support efforts to protect minors as they navigate an online environment that is too often harmful for young children. As these threats grow, it is important that we put measures in place to be certain parents are equipped with the tools to keep their children’s online access safe and age appropriate. Reps. Jake Auchincloss (D-MA-04) and Erin Houchin (R-IN-09) have introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives, and I look forward to working with my colleagues and industry leaders to make certain parents have the tools necessary to keep their children safe online. You can read more about my legislation from Kansan Susan Peters in the Wichita Eagle here. Raising Health & Safety Concerns of Mail-Order Abortion Drugs to U.S. Supreme Court This week, I joined several of my Senate colleagues in filing an amicus brief in support of the State of Louisiana’s case regarding the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) policies surrounding abortion drugs. The brief raises concerns about the removal of in-person medical requirements for dispensing abortion drugs and the potential risks this poses to women’s health and safety. It also highlights concerns related to informed consent, coercion and the importance of physician oversight in the prescribing process. As the Senate continues its oversight responsibilities, it is important that federal agencies remain accountable and that policies impacting patient safety are carefully examined. I will continue supporting efforts to protect women’s health and unborn children. You can read the full amicus brief to the U.S. Supreme Court here. Introducing Bill to Extend Rural Community Hospital Demonstration Program I joined Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) in introducing the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration Reauthorization Act, bipartisan legislation that would extend the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration (RCHD) program for another five years. Rural hospitals are essential to the health and economic well-being of communities across Kansas. This program helps rural hospitals test innovative Medicare payment models that improve financial stability and support continued access to care for patients in rural areas. Since my time in the U.S. House of Representatives, I have supported the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration program because it provides critical support for hospitals working to keep their doors open and continue delivering quality care. Currently, Stormont Vail Health Flint Hills Campus in Junction City and McPherson Hospital participate in the program and use these resources to strengthen services in their communities. Additionally, Mercy Hospital Fort Scott, Mercy Hospital Independence and Bob Wilson Memorial Hospital in Ulysses have also previously participated in the RCHD Program. I appreciate the support of Kansas health care leaders and will continue working to advance policies that strengthen rural hospitals and support access to care across our state. You can read more about the RCHD program and how it supports rural health providers in Kansas here. Reintroducing Legislation to Expand USDA Research Programs I reintroduced the America Grows Act with Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), my colleague on both the Senate Agriculture Committee and Senate Appropriations Committee. This legislation would increase funding for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) research programs by 5% annually for the next 10 years. For U.S. farmers and ranchers to remain competitive in global markets, our nation must continue making strong investments in agricultural research. Expanding USDA’s research capacity will improve our ability to prevent and respond to plant and animal disease threats, accelerate the adoption of modern technologies and help farmers and ranchers innovate. U.S. agriculture is better prepared for the future through investments in research. Recognizing Military Appreciation Month May is Military Appreciation Month, a time to recognize and honor the military servicemembers bravely serving our country and defending our freedoms. This month, and every day, we honor the courage, dedication and sacrifice of our nation’s heroes. To the servicemembers in Kansas, across the U.S. and around the globe – thank you for your service. Recognizing International Firefighters Day On Monday, May 4, the world celebrated International Firefighters Day, recognizing the lifesaving service firefighters provide to communities around the globe. I am grateful for the firefighters across our great state for their dedication to keeping Kansans safe. Celebrating National Beef Month Kansas is one of America’s top beef producers with 5.85 million head of cattle. Happy National Beef Month to the hardworking ranchers across Kansas working tirelessly to put high-quality beef on our tables. Now Accepting Fall 2026 Internship Applications My own interest in public service was sparked by an internship for Kansas First District Congressman Keith Sebelius in 1974. As an intern, I had the chance to learn firsthand how a Congressional office operates and how the legislative process works. I am glad to be able to offer this same opportunity in my Senate office today, where I have interns year-round working closely with my staff to serve Kansans. Applications for internships in my Washington, D.C. and Kansas offices for the fall 2026 session are due Sunday, May 31, 2026. Congressional internships are open to qualified undergraduate and graduate students who have an interest in public service and have achieved academic excellence. Click here for more information and to apply. Now Accepting Fall 2026 Page Applications Applications are now open for the fall 2026 Senate Page Program. High school students are afforded a unique opportunity to work in the Senate and learn about Congress and the legislative process. Fall Page eligibility is limited to students who have completed their sophomore year of high school and who will be 16 or 17 years old on or before the date of appointment. The deadline to apply is Sunday, May 31, 2026. Click here for more information and to apply. Now Accepting 2026 Service Academy Applications Applications are now open for students to apply to a United States Service Academy for the Class of 2031. One of my favorite duties as a U.S. Senator is appointing Kansans to the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York; the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York. For the list of requirements and to apply, you can visit my website here. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CT on September 18, 2026. After applications have been reviewed, applicants will be notified of interviews with my Service Academy Selection Board. Capitol Tour Bradley Dicus of Shawnee Cassandra Dicus of Shawnee Chenel Dicus of Shawnee Elliott Dicus of Shawnee Herb Dicus of Overland Park Judah Dicus of Shawnee Sherry Dicus of Overland Park Viviana Dicus of Shawnee Julia Huber of Lawrence Michael Huber of Lawrence Debbie Paulbeck of Overland Park Mary Therese Sanders of Berryton Haley Schneider of Topeka Alexander Wooldridge of Prairie Village American College of Radiology Qays Abu-Saymeh of Lenexa Kamran Ali of Wichita Helen Berhe of Wichita Motaz Daraghma of Mission Dan Davis of Wichita Vijay Dimri of Wichita Brian Everist of Overland Park Nicholas O’Connor of Bel Aire Eric Pham of Overland Park Lakshmi Priya of Overland Park Safiya Syed of Wichita Anjum Shariff of Overland Park Childcare Aware Jarvis Doleman of Topeka Sarah Elsen of Topeka Veronica Fernandez of Kansas City Kendall Florian of Kansas City Sarah Minshull of Overland Park Rebecca Quigley of Olathe Vania Rangel of Kansas City Julie Scott of Topeka Jennifer Traffis of Kansas City Epilepsy Foundation of Missouri and Kansas Mike Wirtz of Leawood Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt of Topeka National Association of Rehabilitation Providers and Agencies Jeanne Copeland of Wamego Shweta Shah of Lawrence National Brain Tumor Society Carmen Caffey of Overland Park Lisa Ward of Wamego Specialty Equipment Market Association Kyle Fickler of Tonganoxie Tim McCarthy of Leawood Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association Joe Samia of Wichita The ESOP Association Matt Adams of Overland Park Jordan Bergkamp of Overland Park Kent Bredehoeft of Overland Park World of Golf Foundation Jonathan Bennett of Kansas City Matt Brown of Lenexa Jeff Eldridge of Overland Park Kelly Lonker of Overland Park Elliot Rausch of Olathe Shelly Robbins of Bonner Springs Tyler Stover of Eudora Kevin Sunderman of Lawrence Joshua Tapp of Osage City Erin Wolfram of Lawrence Leann Cooper of Lawrence Dick Stuntz of Lawrence Newsletter Sign-up Form Note: Fields marked with an * are required.