Hydropower is one of our nation's most reliable, affordable, and clean energy sources, but outdated licensing requirements and endless litigation are putting many projects at risk.
That's why I introduced the Hydropower Licensing Affordability Act, legislation that brings greater clarity and accountability to the federal licensing process while ensuring mitigation requirements are reasonable and tied to a project's actual impacts.
As energy demand continues to grow, we must protect and strengthen the hydropower resources that help keep electricity affordable and reliable for families and businesses across Oregon and the nation.
ICYMI: For years, DC shrugged off Medicaid fraud, writing off billions in improper payments as the cost of doing business.
Not anymore. @HouseCommerce, the @WHFraudTF, and @HHSGov are cracking down on waste and making sure states answer for every taxpayer dollar.
Read more ⬇️
https://t.co/Qlyl4fHyJ8
Washington didn't earn your paycheck. You did.
That's why the Working Families @TaxCuts are returning $82 billion to working families across the country.
Protecting our forests, strengthening consumer privacy, supporting agriculture, and addressing national security challenges remain top priorities.
Read more about my recent work in Congress and the issues impacting Oregon’s Second Congressional District. ⬇️
https://t.co/OriAJ3HGag
Happy 251st birthday to the U.S. Army!
Thank you to the brave men and women who valiantly serve and have served. Our nation would not be what it is without you.
Today, I attended a House Natural Resources Committee Committee hearing on The Great American Outdoors Act 250, held in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
I’d like to thank Chairman Bruce Westerman for holding the hearing where we examined legislation aimed at enhancing public lands access, improving infrastructure, and creating new outdoor recreation opportunities in our nation’s crown jewels like Crater Lake National Park, and in this case, Hot Springs National Park.
I’d also like to thank my Democrat colleges from Oregon, both Congresswoman Val Hoyle and Congresswoman Maxine Dexter for also attending the hearing.
Among our witnesses was actor Kevin Costner who shared his personal stories about the importance of getting outdoors and recognizing this history of our Country’s natural resources.
We also had Department of Interior Deputy Secretary Kate McGregor testify about the Administration’s work with Congress to maximize the experience for those to visit our National Parks and National Forests.
It was great fun!
WATCH: @RepBentz asked @Interior Deputy Secretary Kate MacGregor about how revenue from energy production helps maintain America’s public lands under the Great American Outdoors Act 250.
"We are taking from the land but we are giving back to it. And to me, that is part of the genius of the bill that Chairman Westerman is bringing to us today."
It was great meeting with students from the Pendleton FFA Chapter from Pendleton High School.
FFA programs provide students with valuable hands on learning experiences and leadership opportunities that help prepare the next generation of Oregon’s agricultural community. I know that Oregon agriculture has a bright future, and these students are helping lead the way!
It was a pleasure meeting with Makeena, a student from South Umpqua High School in Myrtle Creek, Oregon. Congratulations to her on being recognized as a recipient of the 2026 Capitol Hill Challenge Award.
We also spoke about my journey to Congress, public service, and the growing opportunities available to young people interested in government.
I spoke with a great group of students this morning from North Wasco County School District 21. Our conversation was thoughtful and covered a range of issues including the power of AI, current issues that are before Congress and the legislative branch.
Thank you for making the trip to Washington, D.C.!
It is my honor to preside over the House floor as Members debate critical legislation.
I am proud to represent the Second Congressional District form the Speaker’s Chair!
Thanks to the Rural Health Transformation Fund, included in @HouseGOP Working Families @TaxCuts Act.
This year alone, Oregon will received more than $197 MILLION! ⬇️
https://t.co/Har00LBj2h
“It seems to me that you make more money, on the lawyer side of things, if you can drag things out and bill more hours. Is that correct?” -@RepBentz
“Yes, absolutely.” – Lawson Fite, Natural Resources Attorney
82 years ago today, brave Allied troops stormed the beaches of Normandy and put their lives on the line to advance the cause of global freedom.
We are forever in their debt.
Across the country, @CMSGov is rooting out Medicaid fraud that steals from Americans in need.
Alongside @HouseCommerce's sweeping investigation, the Trump Administration is cracking down on the fraudsters and scammers who prey on vulnerable Americans, restoring integrity to the programs millions rely on.
Today in the @NatResources Subcommittee on Federal Lands hearing, “The State of Our Nation’s Federal Forests and Outlook for the 2026 Wildfire Year,” I asked U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz whether the agency is prepared for the 2026 wildfire season.
Chief Schultz confirmed the Forest Service has increased firefighting staffing levels and is prepared to respond to wildfires this year. As communities across the West face another challenging fire season, we must make sure our firefighters have the personnel, resources, and support they need to protect lives, property.
I also asked Chief Schultz to remain in contact with my office should additional firefighting resources be needed during the upcoming wildfire season.