Hello Friends,

Last week, I had the opportunity to travel across the district and meet with community leaders, local officials, and partners working every day to strengthen Virginia’s Second Congressional District. From discussions on national defense to conversations about workforce needs and accessibility, it was a productive week focused on the ingenuity, progress, and potential that define our region. I came to Congress to improve the lives of those in Hampton Roads, especially our servicemembers and their families, and I remain committed to advancing policies that support their success, security, and quality of life.

As a Navy veteran, Navy spouse, and now Navy Mom, I understand firsthand the sacrifices made by those who serve our country and by their families who support them. Ensuring they have access to quality healthcare, stable housing, and reliable support systems remains one of my top priorities. I will continue working with my colleagues to strengthen these resources and uphold our commitment to those who defend our nation.

At the same time, Congress must fulfill its fundamental responsibility to keep the American people safe. The Department of Homeland Security remains unfunded, which is both unacceptable and continues to pose a serious risk to our national security. Agencies under DHS play a critical role in protecting our borders, preventing illicit activity, and supporting law enforcement efforts across the country.

Just last week, officers with U.S. Customs and Border Protection assisted local authorities in seizing 159 kilograms of illicit narcotics in Suffolk—a clear example of the vital work being done every day to keep our communities safe. These men and women are on the front lines, often in challenging and high-risk environments, and they deserve the full support and resources of Congress to carry out their missions effectively.

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

Now, onto my Weekly Debrief.

American Heroes Safely Rescued After Hostile Fire

Prayers answered! Our U.S. forces successfully rescued our American aviators in Iran following last week’s hostile fire. These brave men and women represent the very best of our nation, willingly facing extraordinary danger in defense of our freedom. We are forever grateful to the heroic search-and-rescue teams who brought them home safely. God bless America...! 🇺🇸

April is the Month of the Military Child!

April 1st marked the beginning of the month of the military child! As a military child myself, and the Mom of four military children, I understand the challenges they face and the sacrifices they make. Today and every day, we recognize their strength, resilience, and the important role they play in supporting our servicemembers. Thank you for all you do...! 🇺🇸

Honoring Sacrifice: Gold Star Spouses Day

On Gold Star Spouses Day, we honored the husbands and wives who have lost a loved one in service to our nation. As a Navy spouse and Navy Mom, I carry deep gratitude for these families and the sacrifice they have made for our great nation. We will never forget…. 🇺🇸

America's Return to the Moon... Good Luck Artemis II crew!

What a historic step forward for American leadership in space...!! Wishing the NASA Artemis II crew a safe mission as they carry the U.S. into the next generation of space exploration! 🇺🇸

Steve and I had the privilege of meeting the Artemis II crew in DC in February...! 🚀 Last week's launch was so inspiring and awesome to watch— I am thankful for this crew and for their bravery and courage solidifying America's role in space! God Speed!!

Monarch Army ROTC Battalion to Honor Lt. Col. Shah

It was a privilege to join the Old Dominion University community last week for the Monarch Army ROTC Battalion memorial and 21-gun salute to honor the life of Lt. Col. Brandon Shah. As we continue to mourn his loss, we keep his family, friends, and students in our prayers and remain deeply grateful for his service to our nation.

Virginia Defense Forum: Keeping Virginia at the Forefront of National Security

I joined Representative Bobby Scott (VA03) and Senator Tim Kaine last week for a Virginia Defense Forum Congressional Panel focused on strengthening Virginia's defense industrial base and supporting our servicemembers. By working across the aisle, our delegation is ensuring that the Commonwealth remains uniquely positioned to lead national security efforts and provide the necessary resources for our military families…!

I had the opportunity to join military leaders and community partners aboard the Battleship Wisconsin for the inaugural Virginia Defense Forum Welcome Reception. Virginia's defense industrial base is home to incredible talent, and I'm proud to work alongside these dedicated professionals to keep our Commonwealth at the forefront of national defense...!

Allied Command Transformation: Keeping NATO Ready for Tomorrow

Last week, I visited Allied Command Transformation (ACT), one of NATO’s two Strategic Commands, where critical work is underway to ensure the Alliance remains ready, adaptable, and unified in the face of evolving global threats. I was honored to meet with Supreme Allied Commander Transformation Pierre Vandier to discuss strengthening NATO's force posture and readiness. As we marked NATO's 77th anniversary last week, I am proud to support all partnerships that keep our Alliance strong, unified, and committed to freedom and security...!

Easterseals Culinary Connections Brings Inclusive Skill Building for Our Community

I recently had the opportunity to visit the new Culinary Connections kitchen at Easterseals PORT Health to meet the dedicated staff who are helping participants of all ages and abilities master life skills through culinary classes and culinary therapy. It was amazing to see their accessible tools and adaptive practices in action, which ensure everyone can participate regardless of ability! Thank you to Easterseals PORT Health for all you do to support and empower our community here in Hampton Roads...!

Visiting the New Elections Registrar in Virginia Beach...!

Last week, I visited the new Virginia Department of Elections Registrar's office in Virginia Beach...! As we quickly approach the April 21st referendum vote, I appreciate the work our Registrar does to keep our elections free and fair. Thank you to Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer for joining us and for your strong leadership moving the VB Department of Elections to a new and bigger home. Special shout out to all of the volunteers across VA-02 who are working the polls during early voting...! Go Vote Virginia!! 🗳️

Local Innovation Serving America’s Heroes

Last week I had the pleasure of visiting MATBOCK, a veteran-owned company leading the way in innovative tactical gear right here in Virginia’s Second District. The men and women that serve our country in uniform deserve the very best, and MATBOCK is committed to equipping our servicemembers and first responders with equipment to help them succeed in the most demanding environments. Thank you for your continued support to those that serve…!

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

🚨Attention all #VA02 high school students…! My office is accepting submissions for the annual Congressional Art Competition…! This year’s theme is celebrating America’s 250th birthday! If you are interested in participating, the deadline to submit artwork is Friday, April 17, 2026.

Please call my office at (757) 364-7650 if you plan to participate!

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.

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 Congress should fully fund the ENTIRE Department of Homeland Security. Of those of you who answered, 71% said YES, and I agree with you.

As our nation continues to confront threats at our border, it is essential that the Department of Homeland Security has every tool and resource necessary to protect the American people. From border security and counterterrorism to FEMA disaster relief, Coast Guard operations, airport screening, and cybersecurity defense, every component of DHS plays a direct role in keeping our communities safe.

The men and women of DHS are critically important to our safety, and they deserve all the support we can offer. We must put politics aside and work together to fully fund DHS so it can carry out its mission without disruption—securing our borders, defending against threats, responding to disasters, and protecting the American people.

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 Captain Robert Foley of the United States Army (Medal of Honor action date: November 5, 1966).

Robert Foley served with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War as the commander of Company A, 2d Battalion, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division. During his service, he demonstrated extraordinary leadership, courage, and unwavering commitment to his soldiers.

On November 5, 1966, near Quan Dau Tieng in the Republic of Vietnam, Captain Foley’s company was tasked with moving through dense jungle terrain to assist and extract a besieged friendly unit. As Company A advanced, they encountered a well-entrenched and heavily armed enemy force occupying concealed defensive positions. The leading elements of his company quickly sustained casualties under intense enemy fire.

Recognizing the severity of the situation, Captain Foley immediately moved to the front lines, placing himself in the most dangerous position to better direct his troops. He skillfully deployed one platoon to the flank while personally leading the remaining platoons in a direct assault against the enemy. Disregarding his own safety, Captain Foley braved relentless enemy fire to carry the wounded soldiers to a position where they could receive medical attention.

Continuing the assault, Captain Foley seized a machine gun from a wounded crew member and charged forward, firing the weapon, issuing commands, and inspiring his men to maintain the momentum of the attack. Even as enemy fire intensified, he refused to take cover, instead ordering his assistant to safety while he continued advancing alone, ensuring that the wounded could be evacuated and the attack sustained.

When progress on another flank was halted by fierce enemy resistance, Captain Foley again moved forward to personally lead the effort. During this phase of the battle, he was wounded by an enemy grenade. Despite his injuries, he refused medical aid and remained at the forefront of the fight. Demonstrating exceptional bravery, he led the assault on multiple enemy positions and singlehandedly destroyed three enemy gun emplacements.

Captain Robert Franklin Foley’s extraordinary heroism, inspirational leadership, and selfless devotion to his soldiers were instrumental in the success of the mission.

Constituent Corner

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

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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