Sunday Talk: Feenstra on a Mothers Rural Access to Labor and Delivery Care

WELCOMING MIDWESTERN VETERANS TO WASHINGTON, D.C. THROUGH THE MIDWESTERN HONOR FLIGHT PROGRAM!

This week, my staff had the privilege of attending the Midwestern Honor Flight to welcome veterans from across the Midwest to Washington, D.C.

We are eternally grateful for their service and sacrifice, and my staff greatly enjoyed the opportunity to speak with these American heroes.

DELIVERING HISTORIC TAX RELIEF FOR SENIORS

I was honored to receive the AMAC Patriot Award for delivering historic tax relief for seniors through No Tax on Social Security.

As a member of the Ways and Means Committee, hearing directly from seniors about how we can provide greater relief and certainty has been essential.

I remain committed to delivering results for them and their families.

HONORING THE DEDICATION AND SACRIFICE OF EMS PROFESSIONALS DURING NATIONAL EMS WEEK

This week marks National EMS Week, a time to recognize the vital role EMS providers play in keeping our communities healthy, safe, and strong.

As a former volunteer EMT, I know firsthand the sacrifice, dedication, and compassion these professionals demonstrate every single day.

We are deeply grateful for their service and unwavering commitment to caring for others.

EXPANDING ACCESS TO QUALITY MATERNAL HEALTHCARE IN RURAL AMERICA

Expecting mothers, going through one of the most important times in their lives, should feel confident that high-quality maternal healthcare is within easy reach.

That’s why I introduced the Rural Maternity Options for Medical Support (MOMS) Act of 2026, to strengthen and stabilize maternal healthcare in rural communities across America.

BOOSTING AMERICAN FERTILIZER PRODUCTION TO SUPPORT FARMERS AND LOWER COSTS FOR IOWA FARMERS

Thank you, Secretary Rollins, for announcing these major steps to strengthen American fertilizer production.

This is a major win to address the issues facing farm country.

Representing one of the largest agricultural districts in the nation, I’ve worked closely with the administration to help lower the costs of fertilizer and other inputs.

These new steps to increase domestic fertilizer production in Iowa, and to increase transparency is an important step in putting American agriculture first again.

STRENGTHENING RURAL HOSPITALS THROUGH THE RURAL COMMUNITY HOSPITAL DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM

Rural hospitals are the backbone of our communities — and we must ensure they have the support needed to keep their doors open.

That’s why I’m proud to help lead legislation to reauthorize the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration Program.

This proven program provides rural hospitals with the financial stability needed to continue delivering quality care close to home, strengthening Iowa families, communities, and our rural economy.

EXPANDING ACCESS TO BEHAVIORAL HEALTHCARE IN COUNCIL BLUFFS WITH THE NEW METHODIST JENNIE EDMUNDSON FACILITY

This week, my District Director, Abby, had the privilege of attending the ribbon cutting for the Methodist Jennie Edmundson Behavioral Health Facility in Council Bluffs.

This new 96-bed facility will help deliver high-quality behavioral healthcare to Iowans and strengthen access to critical mental health services in our communities.

EXPANDING GLOBAL MARKETS FOR IOWA CORN THROUGH STRONG EXPORT GROWTH AND THE FRIDGE ACT

Corn exports reached $3.1 billion in the first two months of this year — up 6% in value!

I was proud to lead legislation in the Farm Bill to help open new export markets through expanded infrastructure investment in my FRIDGE Act.

Corn is one of Iowa’s top exports, and I remain committed to fighting for our farmers and expanding access to markets around the world.

ONE LAST THING: FOLLOWING SEVERE STORMS IN SIOUXLAND, IOWA TEAMS STEP UP TO PROTECT RESIDENTS FROM FRAUD AND HELP COMMUNITIES RECOVER

As communities across Siouxland continue cleaning up after 11 tornadoes touched down across the region, support is arriving not only in the form of recovery efforts — but also protection from scams targeting vulnerable homeowners.

The Iowa Insurance Fraud Bureau and the Iowa Insurance Division are on the ground in impacted communities like Kingsley and Pierson, helping residents navigate insurance claims, connect with their providers, and avoid bad actors looking to take advantage of storm damage recovery.

Officials warn that after major disasters, scammers often pressure homeowners with high-cost claims, demand upfront payments, or push unverified contractors.

Their message is clear: rely on trusted local recommendations, verify credentials, and take time before making decisions.

Teams are even going door-to-door to ensure residents have direct access to guidance and resources as they begin rebuilding.

As cleanup continues across Siouxland, Iowa’s fraud prevention and insurance response teams are helping ensure families can recover safely, securely, and with confidence.

CLOSING POLL FOR THE DAY

LAST WEEK’S POLL RESULTS: Which benefit of year-round E15 resonates with you most?

Cheaper gas at pump – 31%

Expanded markets for farmers – 35%

Supporting American-made energy – 34%

If you have more thoughts on this week’s question, feel free to leave your comments on my official website HERE.

Sincerely,