The citizens of East Palestine, Ohio are still suffering from the uncertainty and trauma of a chemical fire caused by a train derailment in their community. They deserve answers. They deserve to have their municipal water checked and rechecked for safety. In the past few days, multiple train derailments have caused major concerns and evacuations across the country. As vice chairman of the Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials subcommittee of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, this falls under our jurisdiction. We will demand accountability and swift action from the Department of Transportation to investigate and remedy the cause of these accidents. My wife Stephanie and I hold the families caught in these frightening and tragic circumstances in our prayers.

It was a busy week here in New York’s 22nd Congressional District. Over 16 meetings and events in just 3 days! My favorite part of my job is to connect with our community. Listening, engaging, connecting, and helping the people of Central New York and the Mohawk Valley is easily the best part of being your representative!

Earlier this week, I sat down with Onondaga County's new sheriff, Sheriff Toby Shelley, to catch up over breakfast at Stella's Diner in Syracuse. Our biggest priority is to keep our community safe. To do that, we must improve staffing levels and encourage everyone to back the brave men and women in blue!