Hello Friends,

Last week in Washington, I was proud to vote to keep the government funded and to stand with our troops. Keeping our government operating and supporting the men and women who serve our country is a responsibility we must always take seriously, especially at a time when adversaries, like Iran and its allies, continue to pose serious threats to global stability and American interests.

While the House voted to fund the government, the shutdown continues as it enters its fourth week. Our agencies and servicemembers are still not receiving the support and resources they need. I continue to call on my colleagues across the aisle in the Senate to act and end this shutdown, which is depriving the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and Coast Guard personnel of the resources they rely on to carry out their essential missions.

As always, it is the honor of a lifetime to serve as your Representative in Washington.

The House also voted on and passed several important bills last week. You can read more about some of those efforts below in my weekly floor recap.

Now, onto my Weekly Debrief.

International Women's Day...!



On Sunday, we celebrated International Women’s Day to recognize the incredible women who paved the way before us and those I have the privilege of serving alongside in Congress today. Thank you to the women across our nation who lead, serve, and make a difference in their communities every single day!

Unyielding Support for Servicemembers in Operation Epic Fury

Last week, I joined my House Republican colleagues in voicing support for our servicemembers overseas as they defend our nation and complete the mission in Operation Epic Fury. As a Navy veteran, a Navy wife, and a Navy Mom, I have the deepest respect and appreciation for the men and women who answer the call to serve and put our country’s security above all else. To our servicemembers around the world: House Republicans stand with you and support your mission every step of the way.

Last week I voted in support of our men and women in uniform as they carry out their mission in Operation Epic Fury, because one thing remains clear: Iran must never have a nuclear weapon.

Read my statement 👇

Watch my appearance on 13NewsNow 👇

Condemning State Overreach at VMI

VMI is one of the most cherished and storied academic institutions in our Commonwealth and has shaped generations of young men and women who have gone on to serve in our Armed Forces. Last week, I joined my GOP colleagues in the Virginia delegation in sending a letter to President Donald Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to raise serious concerns regarding the governance of VMI and its subjection to significant legislative intervention and State over-reach.

Read my press release here.

Celebrating Chesapeake Bay Day on Capitol Hill...!

Last week, I joined our partners from the Choose Clean Water Coalition to kickoff Chesapeake Bay Day on Capitol Hill..! The Chesapeake Bay is vital to Virginia’s Second District, supporting our economy, environment, and communities. I’m proud to continue working with the Choose Clean Water Coalition to protect this national treasure for future generations! 

Progress for Veterans: VA Benefits Backlog Drops Below 100,000

This is encouraging news for America's veterans. For the first time in five years, the VA benefits backlog has dropped below 100,000. This is an important step toward ensuring veterans receive the care and attention they've earned. While this progress matters, our work is far from over, and we must continue improving timeliness and accountability for those who served...!

Advancing East Coast Military Readiness and Next-Generation Defense Capabilities

During last week's House Armed Services Committee hearing, I asked Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Eldridge Colby about prioritizing East Coast defense manufacturing for shipbuilding and bringing next generation strike fighters to NAS Oceana. I also raised concerns about the strength of our Joint Forces to support recent combat operations against Iran. We must ensure our men and women in uniform have the resources, training, and capabilities they need to remain ready to defend our nation and deter our adversaries...!

Watch my full questioning of Under Secretary Colby 👇

Defending Nursing Education

Last week, I sent a letter alongside Senator Jeff Merkley and Representative Suzanne Bonamici to Under Secretary of Education Nicholas Kent regarding the Department of Education's decision to exclude post-baccalaureate nursing degrees from the definition of "professional degrees." At a time when we face significant nursing shortages, this sends the wrong message to the very workforce we should be supporting.

Read my press release here.

Supporting Public Safety in Chesapeake

I appreciated the opportunity to visit the Chesapeake City Jail last week. Thank you to Sheriff Wallace Chadwick, the Chesapeake Sheriff's Office, and the dedicated healthcare staff for the important work you do each day to ensure inmates receive appropriate medical care while maintaining the safety and security of our community. We are grateful for your service!

2026 Virginia Beach State of the City...!

My office was grateful to attend the 2026 Virginia Beach State of the City last week! It was great hearing from our local leaders about the priorities shaping our community, along with the investments and ongoing and future projects that will continue moving Virginia Beach forward…!

Virginia Aquarium Visit Highlights Marine Education and Conservation

We had so much fun visiting the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center! I was grateful for the opportunity to tour the facility, meet the passionate staff and volunteers, and see up close how they care for their animals— with the highlight being a special painting from "Rudder" the seal! Thank you to the Virginia Aquarium team for your warm hospitality and for inspiring visitors of all ages while advancing marine education and conservation across Hampton Roads and beyond...!

Participate in the 2026 Congressional Art Challenge...!!

Attention all VA-02 high school students…! My office is now accepting submissions for the annual Congressional Art Competition…! This year's artowrk theme is "America 250" to celebrate 250 years since the birth of our great nation. If you are interested in participating, the deadline to submit artwork is Friday, April 17, 2026.

Fill out the “contact me” form👉 here.

Join Us for Service Academy Information Night...!

Attention VA-02 students! My district staff is hosting our 2026 Service Academy Information Night on Wednesday, May 27th in the Landstown High School Auditorium in Virginia Beach...! If you are a student interested in applying for a service academy nomination through my office, joining the military officer corps, or pursuing education at a military college… we'd love to see you there...!

Please fill out the RSVP form👉 here.

Calling Official Office Interns for Summer 2026...!

We are now accepting internship applications for Summer 2026! If you’re passionate about public service and want hands-on experience serving the people of Virginia’s Second District, we encourage you to apply. Interns play an important role in helping our team serve constituents, support legislative work, and stay connected to our community. 

Apply here.

Schedule a D.C. Tour Through My Office....!

It's a great time to come up to D.C. for a tour of our nation's historic capital! We can assist in scheduling tours of some of Washington’s most iconic landmarks, including:

• The U.S. Capitol
• The White House
• The Library of Congress
• The Supreme Court
• The FBI

Many of these tours fill up weeks in advance, so I encourage you to reach out early. My team is here to help you and your family enjoy a memorable, meaningful experience in D.C.

👉 To request a tour click here.

Weekly Poll

Thank you to everyone who participated in last week’s poll! I asked if you believe the Middle East is safer after the elimination of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei. Of those who responded, 60% of you said YES and 25% said NO.

The Middle East is safer today because the removal of Ayatollah Khamenei has weakened a central source of violence and instability in the region. For decades, he directed funding and weapons to extremist groups that targeted U.S. allies and civilians, fueling conflict instead of cooperation. With him no longer in power, the system that sustained these activities has been disrupted, reducing Iran’s ability to sponsor attacks and export instability across the region and beyond.

This moment presents a real opportunity for increased security and deterrence across the region. President Trump’s decisive leadership and the strength of the U.S. military have sent a clear message that terrorism and aggression will not be tolerated. Without Khamenei’s grip on power, Iran’s leadership is under pressure to turn inward instead of exporting conflict, and terrorist networks that relied on Tehran’s direction are weakened. While risks remain, removing a chief architect of violence reduces the chance of major escalation and reinforces America’s commitment to protecting our allies and advancing a more stable Middle East.

And now, onto this week's poll question...!

Medal of Honor Recipient of the Week

This week, I would like to honor Medal of Honor Recipient Colonel William Earl Barber of the United States Marine Corps (Medal of Honor action date: November 28 to December 2, 1950).

William Earl Barber enlisted in the Marine Corps and went on to serve with distinction during the Korean War. Over the course of his military career, he demonstrated extraordinary leadership, determination, and courage, eventually attaining the rank of Colonel. As a Marine officer, Barber dedicated himself to leading his men through some of the most challenging combat environments. 

From November 28 to December 2, 1950, Captain Barber was serving as the commanding officer of Company F, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division during the fierce fighting at the Chosin Reservoir in Korea. His company was assigned to defend a critical three-mile mountain pass along the division’s main supply route between Yudam-ni and Hagaru-ri. Recognizing the strategic importance of the position, Captain Barber ordered his battle-weary Marines to dig in along the frozen, snow covered hillside and prepare for an expected enemy assault.

During the night, a massive enemy force of approximately regimental strength launched a savage attack against his position. The assault lasted seven hours and resulted in heavy casualties among Barber’s Marines, eventually surrounding the company. Despite the overwhelming odds, Captain Barber and his men repelled the enemy and held their ground. When orders were received to attempt a breakout and link up with a relieving force, Captain Barber instead requested permission to remain in position if supplies could be delivered by airdrop. He understood that abandoning the pass would cut off the only route for thousands of Marines trapped at Yudam-ni and endanger their chances of linking up with other forces at Hagaru-ri.

Although severely wounded in the leg early on November 29, Captain Barber refused evacuation and continued to command his company. Often carried on a stretcher along the defensive lines, he directed the defense and personally encouraged his Marines as they faced relentless enemy attacks in brutal subzero temperatures. Over the course of five days and six nights, his company fought off repeated assaults, inflicting heavy losses on the enemy while steadfastly holding their position.

By the time relief forces arrived, only 82 of the original 220 Marines in Company F were able to walk away from the battlefield. Their heroic stand resulted in approximately 1,000 enemy casualties and played a decisive role in allowing the 1st Marine Division to withdraw safely from the Chosin Reservoir. 

Constituent Corner

I know how difficult it can be to navigate the federal government. My office assisted Starlette from Chesapeake in resolving an issue with the U.S. Department of Education. After reaching out to my office, we were able to lend a helping hand through the casework process. Thanks for reaching out, Starlette...!

If you need assistance with a federal agency, my team is here to help. Contact my District Office at (757) 364-7650 or visit my website and my team will be in touch!

Don't forget—if you’d like to stay up to date with what I’m working on, check out my website and follow my Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn pages to stay up to date!

If you or your family are visiting Washington, DC in the coming months, please stop by to say hello!

Jen A. Kiggans

Congresswoman, Virginia's Second District

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