A new chapter in American history

By Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks

The start of the 119th Congress marks the beginning of a new chapter in American history — a chapter in which our borders are secured, gas and groceries are once again affordable, and law and order are restored. After four long years of the Biden-Harris administration, during which we saw over 10 million illegal immigrants cross our border, inflation reach a 40-year high, and a series of disastrous events, including the botched withdrawal from Afghanistan, it is now time to restore all the things that make America the greatest country on Earth and reinstate hope in every American.

This new chapter began on Nov. 5, when the American people voted to send President Trump back to the White House, with majorities in both the Senate and the House and with a clear mandate for change. To support this mandate, President Trump needs a strong leader in the House. On Jan. 3 we delivered that leader to him by re-electing Speaker Mike Johnson! Shortly after the Speaker election, the 119th Congress was sworn in.

Being sworn in to represent the great state of Iowa for the third consecutive time is the honor of a lifetime. I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to represent southeast Iowa in Washington and am eager to continue fighting for each and every one of my constituents. I will work tirelessly to secure the border, lower prices, support our farmers, reduce the national debt, and unleash America’s energy potential.

One of the greatest responsibilities of any Congress is certifying the results of the presidential election. On Jan. 6, 2025, I was proud to certify the election for President Donald J. Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance! On Jan. 20, both will be sworn into office, and the implementation of President Trump’s agenda will begin.

I am ready to begin working with the Trump administration on day one to deliver on the promises made to the American people. No longer will we be a country without a secure border. No longer will we be a country that doesn’t enforce its own laws. No longer will we be a country that asks more of its citizens than its own leaders.

As we begin this new chapter in our nation’s history, let us renew our commitment to the values that have always made America exceptional: freedom, opportunity, achievement through merit and the rule of law. Together, I am confident we will restore our strength and ensure that the promise of the American Dream is within reach for every individual.