Click above to watch my full video statement.

Today marks one year since President Putin mobilized hundreds of thousands of Russian troops to invade and terrorize the Ukrainian people. Nearly 8 million people have fled the country since, causing Europe’s largest refugee crisis since World War II. Nevertheless I stand with Ukraine and remain hopeful that a complete Ukrainian victory is achievable and a resolution that will result in respect for Ukraine’s borders and punishment for Russia’s war crimes.

Ukraine’s fight against tyranny should be a symbol for all those who wish for a free and democratic world. Please join me in praying for all who have lost their lives in this devastating war in our prayers, and those who continue the struggle for freedom.

I was honored to attend a naturalization ceremony at the James M. Hanley Federal Building in Syracuse this week. The Honorable Andrew T. Baxter, United States Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of New York, presided as 40 candidates from 25 different countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens, including two U.S. translators.

These ceremonies touch my heart, as I know it is the culmination of hard work and sacrifice for many. Yet, whether searching for a better life or reuniting with family, becoming a U.S. citizen means much more than just filling out paperwork. I am inspired by the patriotism these 40 candidates from all different backgrounds exemplify, and I am truly grateful to have been present at the start of their journeys to pursue the American Dream. My wife Stephanie and I are praying for your continued success as Americans.

Today, I introduced the Bolstering Northeast Heating Oil and Gasoline Reserves Act alongside my colleagues Congressmen Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) to require the Department of Energy (DOE) to conduct a long-range strategic review of the Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve (NEHHOR) and the Northeast Gasoline Supply Reserve (NGSR), and report to Congress on opportunities to strengthen them. The Northeast petroleum product reserves were established to reduce the impact of severe supply disruptions for the region.

However, current reserves in the Northeast are ill-suited to addressing regional supply disruptions. This bipartisan legislation would examine the Northeast reserves to understand their current limitations and provide ways of improvement for potential future needs to ensure that these reserves can adequately assist the Northeast in supply disruptions or emergency energy needs.

It is imperative that our energy needs are being met and will be dependable in the event of an emergency. This bipartisan legislation will better understand the Northeast petroleum product reserves’ capabilities to strengthen them. Energy security is vital to ensuring our families stay warm and safe in the winter.

That’s why I’m pleased to work on this issue with Congressmen Pappas and Lawler and will continue working to lower the cost of gas, heating oil, and energy for the people of Central New York and the Mohawk Valley.

Click here to read the bill text.

If you are experiencing difficulty with a federal agency, my office can help.

Trained caseworkers can assist with agencies such as the Internal Revenue Service, Social Security, and the Department of Veterans Affairs. While we cannot guarantee a favorable outcome, we will do our best to help you receive a fair and timely response to your problem.

Residents of the 22nd Congressional District can contact our Syracuse (315-233-4333) or Utica (315-732-0713) offices for assistance. You can also submit a request on my website here.