CONGRESSMAN SCOTT DESJARLAIS SUPPORTS PRESIDENT’S BORDER POLICY “100 PERCENT”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Scott DesJarlais issued the following statement supporting stronger border and immigration security, after the President’s Oval Office address to the nation last night:

“Weak border security and bad laws are causing a humanitarian crisis at the southern border and in our local communities. Erecting more effective physical barriers would prevent drug and human smuggling into the U.S. We need more border agents and ICE officers, too, but Democrats oppose a wall, a fence and even ICE itself. But over ninety percent of heroin crosses into the U.S. from Mexico, killing Americans, and cartels and gangs are also smuggling women and children. Illegal immigration is overwhelming our court system.

“The President presented these clear facts, including his offers to sign legislation Democrats supported until he took office. Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer are now describing the most important issue confronting our country as a diversion and distraction. Tennesseans have been promised border security for years, and I’m 100 percent behind President Trump’s efforts to finally solve the problem.”

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REP. SCOTT DESJARLAIS SWEARS OATH TO REPRESENT TENNESSEE'S FOURTH DISTRICT IN U.S. CONGRESS

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Scott DesJarlais, a physician from South Pittsburg, Tennessee, took his oath of office to represent his state’s Fourth District in Congress, promising to “support and defend the Constitution.” Rep. DesJarlais released the following statement:

“It’s an honor to represent the people of Tennessee’s Fourth District in Congress, where I’m sworn to protect the United States and our Constitution. Without strong border security, both would be in jeopardy. National and economic security, and our individual freedoms, depend on building a wall to protect American citizens. We need also need to fix bad laws encouraging illegal immigration, but the new Democrat majority is insisting on the failed status quo, endangering lives. My number-one job is to pass a Homeland Security bill that truly improves border security. The evidence is overwhelming that walls work, and the need is only growing. I’m proud to stand with the President to stop drugs and crime, which not long ago was a bipartisan issue.”

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REP. SCOTT DESJARLAIS VOTES FOR FARM BILL THAT IMPROVES FOOD STAMP PROGRAM, RURAL BROADBAND AND EDUCATION

STRONG STANCE ON TRAINING AND WORK REQUIREMENTS FOR PUBLIC ASSISTANCE PRODUCES MORE CONSERVATIVE BILL

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Scott DesJarlais (TN-04), a member of the House Agriculture Committee, voted for the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018. The House-Senate agreement sets national agriculture policy for the next five years, and the President will likely sign it. Rep. DesJarlais, a House Freedom Caucus member, was an outspoken proponent of changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as food stamps, which would help more Americans gain job training and employment in an economy where an estimated six million job openings outnumber unemployed.

    “Especially in Tennessee’s Fourth District, where Rutherford County is one of the fastest-growing in the U.S., the economy requires skilled workers to fill good-paying jobs. But able-bodied, working-age adults receiving food stamps, many for long periods of time, are missing opportunities to learn nursing, welding, computer coding and other professions,” said Rep. DesJarlais.

    “Unfortunately, Democrats are dead-set against reform, and even some Republicans seem to prefer the failing status quo, despite large majorities of our constituents who favor better training and education for our out-of-work friends and neighbors. But conservatives made progress in this bill, such as better data collection to inform future action. There will be fewer exemptions and waivers allowing states to game the system, and we have eliminated bonuses to states for performing basic administration.”

    The Congressman cited other provisions to improve rural broadband, telemedicine and education. “A Democrat-controlled Congress next year, if we simply extended the deadline until then, would produce more bloat and bureaucracy. Passing this farm bill now gives us the opportunity to make positive changes and prevent big mistakes later on. Tennessee farmers and ranchers also need our help coping with unfair foreign trade practices,” said Rep. DesJarlais.

    “They get it in this legislation, and I’m confident we’re headed in the right direction. I look forward to working with Agriculture Secretary Sonny Purdue to guide work and training requirements at the departmental level.”

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House Members Commemorate One-Year Anniversary of President Donald Trump's Official Recognition of Jerusalem as the Capital of Israel

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Andy Biggs and 42 cosponsors introduced a resolution to commemorate the one-year anniversary of President Donald Trump’s official recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Israel and the announcement of his intention to relocate the American embassy to Jerusalem. Congressman Biggs, along with many of the cosponsors, released the following statements:

“Israel is one of the United States’ most enduring allies, and President Trump kept a significant promise by recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and announcing his intention to move our embassy to Jerusalem. That embassy was opened in Jerusalem earlier this year. These milestones signify our commitment to our ally. I thank my many colleagues who joined me in this resolution.” – Congressman Andy Biggs (AZ-05)

“I am pleased to be an original cosponsor on this important legislation. This year has marked a restoration of the U.S.-Israel relationship. President Trump’s moving of the U.S. Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem was monumental not because he is the first president to promise this move, but because he is the only president who made good on that promise. I have supported moving the embassy since my start in Congress and am proud to have seen it come to fruition. I want to thank my colleague Rep. Biggs for initiating this great commemoration and for working with me collaboratively on the final bill.” – Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-05)

“Today, we celebrate the one-year anniversary of President Trump’s momentous decision to move the U.S. Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to the recognized capital of Jerusalem. During his campaign, President Trump committed to finally make this move, and I applaud him displaying strong leadership and courageous action in support of one of America’s closest allies in the world.” – House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (LA-01)

“My support remains unwavering for President Trump’s courageous and just decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. This decision is a profound reflection of the President’s commitment to fulfilling his promises and advancing peace in the Middle East.” – Congressman Gregg Harper (MS-03)

“One year ago, President Trump announced his decision to recognize Jerusalem as the unquestionable capital of Israel.  The United States was the first to recognize Israel’s independence in 1948.  This May, we celebrated 70 years of Israeli independence, and in a sign of our support, ceremoniously moved the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem, again becoming the first country to do so.  I applaud President Trump’s leadership as we continue to reinforce our commitment to our closest friend and ally, Israel, and support her right to defend herself.” – Congressman David Kustoff (TN-08)

“Jerusalem is the rightful capital of Israel. The recognition of this reality continues to build on our two nation’s special bond which is why I support Representative Biggs’ resolution to commemorate the anniversary of the President’s declaration. Our ally has continuously stood by our side, and we should continue to stand by them.” – Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06)

“Moving our embassy to Jerusalem, Israel’s self-declared, historic, and eternal capital, sent a strong message to the world, that Israel is an ally of the United States and a bulwark of democracy and freedom in the Middle East.” – Congressman Ken Buck (CO-04)

“On the one-year anniversary of President Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, a momentous event, I am proud to co-sponsor this resolution affirming our support for the United States’ strongest Middle East ally, a Jewish homeland, and the Israeli people. Although Congress authorized moving the U.S. embassy more than two decades ago, only our current President, fulfilling a promise other presidents have made but broken, had the courage to act. Anti-Semitism and terrorist threats must never deter us from standing up for our principles, including a free and independent Israel with Jerusalem as its capital. In fact, standing up for our principles and supporting our allies is essential to creating peace and stability in the region.” – Congressman Scott DesJarlais (TN-04)

“As this resolution memorializes, the relocation of United States Embassy in Jerusalem is further proof that President Trump is keeping his promises to the American people. Seventy years after the official formation of Israel and more than 20 years after the United States Congress voted to recognize Jerusalem as its capital, this fulfilled promise signals strong support for our friend and ally.” – Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (TX-26)

“I am honored to join my colleagues in recognizing the one-year anniversary of the United States moving our embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem—the eternal capital. This strong and historic move will forever stand as a message to the rest of the world that the U.S. stands with our Jewish brothers and sisters in the world’s only Jewish state.” – Congressman Tedd Budd (NC-13)

“On the one year anniversary, I applaud President Donald Trump for fulfilling his campaign pledge to recognize Jerusalem as the rightful capital of Israel. Under the leadership of President Trump, our relationship with Israel has never been stronger. We must never forget the important role Israel plays in the world and I will continue to be a vocal supporter of our eternal friendship.” – Rep. Alex X. Mooney (WV-02)

“President Trump’s decision, one year ago, to recognize Jerusalem for what it actually has been and is –the actual capital of Israel, demonstrated great commitment to truth. President Truman had the courage to recognize Israel as an independent nation only minutes after it formed. Since then, we have had eleven Presidents who discussed Jerusalem as the true capital of Israel, but did not recognize it formally. A year ago, our president kept another of his promises made to the American people. This historic decision displayed to the world that the United States will fervently stand with its ally, Israel. I am proud we have a President who courageously did the right thing for the United States, for our ally Israel, and for the world, including those parts that do not know it.” – Congressman Louie Gohmert (TX-01)

“Let today be a world-wide reminder that America stands with Israel, our greatest ally. We recognize that Jerusalem is Israel’s rightful and eternal capital–and shall no longer be questioned.” – Congressman Ralph Norman (SC-05)

“The city of Jerusalem holds a special place in the history of civilization and in the hearts of the people of Israel. By recognizing it as the capital of Israel, President Trump reaffirmed our commitment to a steadfast ally and carried out a law passed overwhelmingly by Congress in 1995. On the first anniversary of this important event, I am proud to join my colleagues in celebrating the ties that continue to join the United States and the State of Israel in friendship.” – Congressman Morgan Griffith (VA-09)

“Israel, our strong ally, has the right to determine its capital city. Our president chose to honor their choice by moving the US embassy to Jerusalem, the historic home of the Jewish people. One year after the president’s announcement that we would relocate our embassy, I join my colleagues applauding this historic move and urge other nations to follow the United States’ example.” – Congressman Dave Brat (VA-07)

“One year ago, President Donald Trump made a historic announcement to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and to relocate our embassy there. I applaud President Trump for standing up for one of our closest allies. This recognition is based on ancient history and current political realities, and we must continue to voice that Jerusalem belongs to the people of Israel.” – Congresswoman Debbie Lesko (AZ-08)

“America and Israel’s unbreakable bond has been cemented through decades of trust, respect, and mutual cooperation. President Trump’s public recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s eternal capital, and his decision to relocate the US Embassy to Jerusalem, were historic moments for US-Israel relations, now and in the future. I am proud to stand with Israel, and to be a cosponsor of Congressman Biggs’ important resolution.” – Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01)

“A year after recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, we are seeing good progress in the Middle East. It is encouraging to see a number of other countries follow our example in relocating their embassies to the one, true capital of Israel – Jerusalem. Though there are still challenges to overcome, we will continue standing by our greatest ally. I’m delighted to celebrate this milestone with my colleagues and with the great people of Israel.” – Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14)

“I am excited to be a part of the one year anniversary of Jerusalem’s recognition in Israel. The Administration’s step to recognize Jerusalem as the capitol of the State of Israel and spiritual home for the Jewish people helped further our friendship with Israel, the only democracy in the Middle East. Congress has voted favorably many times in the past on this issue, and past Presidents have campaigned on this only to backtrack in office for fear of angering Palestinian and Arab communities. This year marks the continuance of my strong support on this issue.” – Congressman David Schweikert (AZ-06)

“Israel is our strongest friend and ally in the Middle East. This time last year, President Trump properly recognized Jerusalem as its capital and showed the world that the United States will always stand with her people,” said Rep. Williams. “For this reason I am proud to cosponsor Rep. Andy Biggs’ resolution, Commemorating the Anniversary of President Trump’s Recognition of Jerusalem as the Capital of Israel. I commend the President for his unwavering support of Israel and for remaining dedicated to backing our allies.” – Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25)

“All in one year, President Trump made the historic announcement to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s rightful capital, and the State Department moved the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. These actions were long overdue and exemplify the strong devotion and commitment the Trump Administration and the nation have to Israel. I am thankful to be working hand in hand with President Trump as we both stand wholeheartedly with Israel, our great ally and friend.” – Congressman Jeff Duncan (SC-03)

“One year after President Trump publicly recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, and soon after moved the U.S. embassy there, the United States remains committed to supporting the State of Israel. I applaud this administration in their decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, and the eternal friendship between our countries remains strong.” – Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01)

“One year ago, President Trump issued a proclamation to officially recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. With Israel’s legislature, Supreme Court, President’s office, and Prime Minister‘s office all being located in the city, Jerusalem is the epicenter of governance in the country.  Congress has repeatedly voted to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, despite previous administrations - both Republican and Democratic - failing to deliver. This proclamation, which also relocates our embassy to Jerusalem, is yet another promise that President Trump has fulfilled. As the Co-Chair of the Congressional Israel Victory Caucus, I firmly believe that by moving the United States Embassy to Jerusalem and recognizing it as Israel’s capital, we are sending a strong message of America’s support for our great ally - asserting the belief that Israel is the nation state of the Jewish people, and that Israel has the undeniable right to exist and defend herself.” – Congressman Bill Johnson (OH-06)

“I was incredibly pleased when President Trump announced the United States’ official recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. As the eternal capital of the Jewish people, this was a long-overdue and necessary action to demonstrate America’s unwavering support on behalf of our strongest ally in the Middle East. I look forward to the ongoing progress we will make to advance the important partnership and longstanding bond between our nations.” – Congressman John Ratcliffe (TX-04)

“It is the diplomatic right of any sovereign nation to choose where their capital is located; and, for 67 years, Israel has recognized Jerusalem as their capital,” said Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA). “I applaud President Trump for moving the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv to Jerusalem a year ago, and my good friend Rep. Andy Biggs for commemorating this seismic event between the United States and Israel.” – Congressman Barry Loudermilk (GA-11)

“America’s relationship with Israel is unique, and it’s strength is the foundation of American leadership in the Middle East. One year ago, President Donald Trump announced that our embassy was to be relocated to Jerusalem, and I was grateful for the opportunity to lead the House delegation to the embassy’s opening in May. The President’s commitment to Promises Made, Promises Kept strengthens our bond with the people of Israel, who know they have an ally in America.” – Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02)

“Israel has long been a friend and an ally to the United States, and it is a priority of mine to continue to stand with them and fortify our bonds. One year ago that bond was strengthened when the President did the right thing by affirming U.S. Law and recognizing Jerusalem as the eternal and undivided capital of Israel.” – Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02)

“We have a special partnership with Israel -- the country is our greatest ally in the Middle East and the only democracy in the region. We share the same values regarding individual rights and liberties, and it is essential we stand by them. I am grateful for President Trump’s leadership on this important issue and that he made the move to affirm Jerusalem as Israel’s rightful capital one year ago.” – Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-04)

“It has been a year since President Trump fulfilled his pledge to move the United States embassy to Jerusalem.  This long-overdue action demonstrates the close friendship between the United States and its strongest ally in the region.  I know President Trump will continue to strengthen our bond with Israel after neglect from previous Administrations.” – Congressman Todd Rokita (IN-04)

“One year ago, President Trump announced that the Unites States officially recognized the city of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. Israel has long been our closest ally in the Middle East, and it was a great honor to witness the historic – and long overdue –  opening of the American Embassy in the holy city of Jerusalem just a few months later. Today, I’m proud to celebrate the anniversary of this recognition, and I look forward to continuing to strengthen the enduring ties between our two nations.” – Congressman Jody Hice (GA-10)

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    Have you heard the good news? Probably not.

    While the mainstream media seems to focus on everything but Americans’ top issue, the U.S. economy is experiencing an exceptional period of gross domestic product and job growth.

     Republicans’ plan to restore the American Dream for millions of people is working. Cutting and simplifying middle-class taxes, reforming business taxes for companies of all sizes, and encouraging outsourced jobs and capital to return home, have produced positive results for those with a college education and without, young and old, male and female, black, white and Hispanic.  

CLICK HERE TO READ SCOTT DESJARLAIS' OPED IN THE TENNESSEAN

MURFREESBORO -- U.S. Rep. Scott DesJarlais seeks to help Murfreesboro build a Northfield Extension to the Stones River National Battlefield entrance on Thompson Lane, his spokesman confirmed Monday.

    DesJarlais is working with the Department of Interior, said spokesman Brendan Thomas, who works for the Republican from South Pittsburg. The congressman is running for re-election against Democrat Mariah Phillips of Murfreesboro. 

    “Because of business-friendly economic and job policies, Murfreesboro is a rapidly growing area with infrastructure needs, a good problem to have," DesJarlais said in a statement. "For example, a new medical center and other job sites are opening at the Gateway location near the battlefield. I am confident we can balance local history and economic growth, and am working to settle this matter as quickly as possible for the benefit of all our citizens.”

    To reach an agreement with battlefield officials, Murfreesboro Mayor Shane McFarland offered a land swap that would provide the National Park Service five to six acres in Old Fort Park at Fortress Rosecrans, a Civil War historic site where the the Union Army stored weapons and other supplies. 

    The city in exchange would be able to build Northfield Extension by 2019 to the Battlefield entrance with a traffic signal that leads from the Gateway area. The city has agreed to complete a road to Thompson Lane for a children's health-care office that Vanderbilt University Medical Center is building. 

READ MORE IN THE DAILY NEWS JOURNAL

Rep. Scott DesJarlais Honored with Award for Manufacturing Legislative Excellence

Nation’s Largest Industrial Trade Association Names Tennessee Congressman Champion of Manufacturing

Washington, D.C. – The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) has awarded Rep. Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) the NAM Award for Manufacturing Legislative Excellence. The award is based on his votes in the 115th Congress on issues that are critical to manufacturing in the United States.

    “In Tennessee and across America, manufacturers are creating jobs, investing in communities and raising wages. That’s a direct result of Rep. DesJarlais' support for policies that have strengthened manufacturing and created opportunities for America’s manufacturing workers,” said NAM Senior Vice President of Policy and Government Relations Aric Newhouse. “The NAM is proud to stand with lawmakers like Rep. DesJarlais, who understand manufacturing’s critical contributions to our economy and are working actively to advance the manufacturing agenda.”

    Key votes included in the Voting Record are selected by small, medium and large manufacturing executives who serve on the NAM’s Key Vote Advisory Committee. 

    The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs more than 12 million men and women, contributes $2.25 trillion to the U.S. economy annually, has the largest economic impact of any major sector and accounts for more than three-quarters of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the Manufacturers or to follow us on Shopfloor, Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.

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Mufreesboro -- The House of Representatives unanimously passed Rep. Scott DesJarlais’ bill to rename the Murfreesboro Veterans Affairs mental health facility to honor a veteran who killed himself, bringing it one step closer to enacting the formal name change.

If the bill is passed by the Senate, the facility will be renamed the Sergeant John Toombs Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Facility, in remembrance of Tennessee Army National Guard Sgt. John Toombs, an Afghanistan War veteran who killed himself on the VA's grounds in November 2016. Toombs sought counseling and treatment for his post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and addiction, but said in a video he posted to Facebook before his death that he was refused the help he needed.

READ MORE IN THE DAILY NEWS JOURNAL

REP. SCOTT DESJARLAIS VOTES TO MAKE MIDDLE CLASS, SMALL BUSINESS TAX CUTS PERMANENT, CONTINUE ECONOMIC AND JOBS GROWTH

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) voted today to make individual and small business tax cuts, centerpieces of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which became law last year, permanent.  Legislation that also passed the U.S. House of Representatives this week would increase Americans’ ability to contribute to education, health and retirement savings plans, and small businesses’ ability to deduct start-up expenses.

   Since the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act became law, consumer and business confidence have reached historic highs, and unemployment has reached historic lows. The Congressman pointed out that job opportunities and wage increases for important labor sectors have been most impressive. Manufacturing jobs are soaring, working-class Americans are seeing more rapid wage growth, compared to higher-income groups, and rural areas are experiencing a resurgence.

   After revising downward economic growth estimates under the Obama Administration, which raised taxes, the Congressional Budget Office revised them upward, after tax cuts. For the first time in more than a decade, the economic growth rate is on target to reach three percent or more this fiscal year, Rep. DesJarlais said.

   “Democrats will tell you that individual and small business tax cuts expire, but that’s because they refused to cooperate with Republican efforts to help the middle class. We forged ahead anyway, and the results have been stellar. Americans are finding full-time jobs with rising wages and better benefits. Yet today, when they had an opportunity to make tax cuts permanent, Democrats voted ‘no.’

   “And if they were to control Congress, Big Government liberals would hike taxes immediately. I’m committed to reducing Tennesseans’ taxes, as well as Washington spending, to help people of every income bracket and background attain the American Dream,” said Rep. DesJarlais.

   This week, the National Federation of Independent Business, the country’s leading small business association, and the National Taxpayers Union, “The Voice of America’s Taxpayers,” awarded Rep. DesJarlais their highest honors for his work to grow jobs and the economy.

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HOUSE PASSES REP. SCOTT DESJARLAIS’ BILL TO DESIGNATE VA MENTAL HEALTH FACILITY “SERGEANT JOHN TOOMBS RESIDENTIAL REHABILITATION TREATMENT FACILITY”

WASHINGTON, D.C. –   Today, in a bipartisan vote, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Scott DesJarlais’ bill to designate the Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Facility at the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Alvin C. York Medical Center in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, as the “Sergeant John Toombs Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Facility.”

          Sgt. Toombs, an Afghan War veteran who suffered from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, sought counseling for his disorder, as well as addiction treatment, at his local VA facility.  However, in November 2016, Sgt. Toombs committed suicide on facility grounds. “He was a war veteran. He was a constituent. I’ve worked closely with David Toombs, his father, to recognize his son’s struggles, and to prevent another tragic ending like John’s,” said Rep. DesJarlais (TN-04), a member of the House Armed Services Committee.

          “Suicide and substance abuse are nationwide problems affecting a disproportionate number of U.S. military veterans. We need to give them our full support, whether they’re fighting for our country abroad or fighting to recover when they return home. Many families, like the Toombs, have suffered personal losses, and this designation will symbolize our continuing commitment to helping them and their loved ones receive the support they need,” said the Congressman.

          Last month at the York campus, Rep. DesJarlais met with Jennifer Vedral-Baron, Director of the VA’s Tennessee Valley Health Care System, to discuss Sgt. Toombs’ case, his legislation, and their efforts to improve veterans’ physical and mental care. Rep. DesJarlais recently voted for the VA MISSION Act to eliminate bureaucratic overlap within the system, improve hiring and retention of quality medical staff, and to remove limitations on private care.

Also this year, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced funding for a new veterans home in Bradley County. For years, Rep. DesJarlais worked with local veterans advocates to achieve the result. “This Congress is focused squarely on providing the best tools, training and care for our military members, including veterans. It is my highest duty and highest honor to work on their behalf.”

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