VA care Archives - Ricky Dana for US House

United States of America, Capitol, Washington DC

Summary

I’m cutting through the headlines on the big issues that matter to Missouri’s 4th District: federal spending, the border, the farm bill, VA care, Social Security, and rural broadband. Here’s what’s real, what’s spin, and what it means for us.

What’s Moving—and What’s Just Noise

Federal Spending — Half-Built, Deadline Looming. The Senate passed a “minibus” that covers Agriculture and Military Construction–VA. The House still has work to do before the September 30 deadline. That’s not “mission accomplished.” We need a full budget on time—no shutdown brinkmanship.

Border Policy — Courts Are in the Mix. The White House paused refugee admissions starting January 27. It also issued new entry restrictions from certain countries. Separate legal fights are underway over attempts to limit asylum and over a birthright citizenship order. Bottom line: the border is not “closed,” and asylum isn’t “over.” Policies are being tested in court and some are on hold.

Farm Bill — One Foot In, One Foot Out. Congress extended the 2018 Farm Bill through September 30, 2025. That means the core safety net continues for now. There are proposals to update price-risk tools and dairy mechanics, but the full “Farm Bill 2.0” is still ahead. Farmers need a real, steady bill—no games.

VA Care — Easier Access; Tech Still Slow. The VA made Community Care simpler by extending many authorizations to a full year for standard services. That’s a practical win for our veterans and local providers. The electronic health record rollout remains slow and will take years, but the access change helps right now.

Social Security — Math First, Slogans Last. Trustees say the main retirement trust fund runs short in 2033 (combined OASDI in 2034) unless Congress acts. That would mean about 77–81% of scheduled benefits. No, Social Security taxes on benefits weren’t “repealed.” Some tax relief exists elsewhere, but the core issue is solvency. We need a bipartisan fix that protects current retirees and keeps promises to younger workers.

Broadband — Real Help for Rural Roads. Missouri’s BEAD Round 2 application window is open now. This is a chance to pull fiber down the gravel roads and long lanes that have been ignored for years. I’m pushing for fair maps, solid bids, and accountability so our dollars actually reach the unserved parts of MO-4.

Why This Matters to MO-4

Folks here don’t ask for much—straight talk, fair budgets, safe streets, and a government that works. We feed the country and show up for our neighbors. We deserve a Congress that meets deadlines, keeps the border orderly and lawful, delivers a real farm bill, honors veterans with faster care, and fixes Social Security without games. That’s the standard I’m holding them to, and it’s the standard I’ll bring to Washington when I’m elected as your congressman.