During the Korean War, the United States came to the defense of our allies in South Korea who were being invaded by the oppressive government in North Korea. Over six decades later, North Korea remains a great threat to the entire region. Read more

We face a devastating mental health crisis in our country, one that affects thousands across the country. The veterans community has been particularly affected by this issue. In fact, a new study from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) shows an average of 20 veterans per day died from suicide between 1979 and 2014. Unfortunately, we have also heard stories of veterans who seek mental health care, but are turned away at VA hospitals. Our veterans make incredible sacrifices to fight for our freedoms and we must improve the mental health care system so they can receive the care they deserve. With September being Suicide Prevention Month, I want to highlight some of the action Congress has taken to address this issue. Read more

The “Baby Boomers” generation of Americans born in the years following World War II represent one of the largest generations in our nation’s history. With this generation becoming older and reaching the age of 65, the number of new enrollees into Medicare continues to rise. In fact, since 2011, an estimated 10,000 Baby Boomers per day turn 65, and this statistic is expected to continue through 2030. Many of the employees in the Social Security Administration are also part of the Baby Boomer generation, meaning these offices are also losing some of the most experienced staff. More than ever before, it is necessary to ensure you keep track of deadlines and prepare if you are turning 65 in the near future or are already enrolled in Medicare. Read more

For many of us, when we think of September 11, 2001, we can remember exactly where we were when we learned of the terrorist attacks. Even today, we can still hear the news broadcasts. We can still see the images of the planes colliding into the towers, and the buildings tumbling down. We can still feel the emotions of that day. The memories reverberate for each of us, even fifteen years later. Read more

The drug abuse epidemic is devastating communities and schools all across our country. In fact, overdoses from prescription painkillers and heroin are now the leading cause of accidental death in the United States. Even closer to home, the most recent data for Ohio shows that over 2,500 lives were lost to drug overdoses in 2014 alone. It is important we begin taking steps to break the cycle of drug abuse and crime in our communities – an effort that will take collaboration and a complete strategy at local, state and federal levels. Read more

Over the past few months, news of terrorist attacks has become all too familiar. With attacks from ISIS within our borders in San Bernardino and Orlando, we see the group becoming bolder and expanding its influence creating a significant national security threat both inside and outside of our borders. Read more

This year, I had the privilege to participate in Foster Youth Shadow Day where Hailey from Ohio joined me in meetings for a day and shared her story of the foster care system. Hearing the perspective of someone who has experienced foster care firsthand inspires me to work to ensure children and youth who face difficult situations have the support they need. As the father of two children, it is especially important to me that we ensure our nation’s children and youth have the opportunity to live in homes where they can grow up and reach their full potential. We have the responsibility to look at our existing programs and systems to determine where improvements can be made so we can provide real help and solutions to those in need. Read more

Every year, millions of Americans travel overseas for work or family vacations. Those with plans to travel outside of our borders for the first time will need to apply for a U.S. passport, and the earlier it’s done, the better. For others who already have a passport, now is also a good time to check the expiration date and renew it, if necessary, as the State Department prepares for an influx of applications. Read more

With the July 4th holiday approaching, many of us will be preparing for cookouts with family and friends, going to community events, and, of course, going to see fireworks. Since the beginning, Americans have taken time to commemorate the events of 1776 when our country united and declared its independence. Read more

This month marked the 100th anniversary of when President Woodrow Wilson signed legislation adopted by Congress to officially charter the Boy Scouts of America. While 1916 marks the official charter of the organization, the idea of scouting started years earlier when British Army Officer Robert Stephenson Smyth Baden-Powell was stationed in India and discovered his men did not know basic first aid and wilderness survival skills. Baden-Powell decided to write a handbook called Aids to Scouting to begin teaching his men the necessary skills. Read more