Heart disease remains the number one cause of death in Idaho and in the United States. We all likely have a family member or friend impacted by heart disease, or maybe you are struggling with it yourself and working hard to reduce its risk.

This American Heart Month, it's important for individuals to learn about their risk for cardiovascular disease. Contributors can include high blood pressure, poor diet, obesity and exposure to nicotine. By modifying lifestyle choices and seeking medical treatment when necessary, thousands of lives are saved each year. Take time to educate yourself about the risks and commit to fighting cardiovascular disease this month.

Our female athletes have invested immense time and effort to excel in sports, only to face unfair competition from biological males in women’s categories. Title IX was established to ensure fairness and protect opportunities for women in sports. I support @SenTuberville's Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act and will fight further attempts to undermine Title IX and the integrity of women's sports.

Fentanyl is the deadliest drug threat the United States has ever faced, and overdose is the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18-44. In 2023, Idaho experienced 264 deaths related to opioid overdoses, and 51 percent of overdose deaths in Idaho involved fentanyl. We must modernize our laws and work with leaders like President Trump to stop this lethal hazard.

More than 44,000 Vietnam Veterans call Idaho home. These brave servicemembers are among the many who answered the call to serve our nation. Eight Idahoans have not yet returned and remain classified as POWs or MIA. Today, we honor them all. Thank you for your selflessness and sacrifice in the line of duty.