Today, more than 1,800 Iowa National Guard troops are deployed to the Middle East to support Operation Inherent Resolve — many stationed at the same base where I once served during my own combat deployments.
These are fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters who stepped up to defend our country. Their work is mission critical to America’s security, and they’re putting their lives on the line every day.
The least we can do is make sure they get paid.
The problem: Unless Congress acts, those servicemembers — along with active-duty troops, homeland security officers, and essential civilian defense staff — could go without pay during a government shutdown.
Why it matters: As a combat veteran and Colonel in the Air Force Reserve, I’ve seen firsthand what a paycheck means to military families. It’s groceries. It’s rent. It’s keeping the lights on while a loved one is deployed overseas.
That’s why I helped pass a continuing resolution to fund the government and make sure Iowa’s servicemembers continue receiving their paychecks on time. But now the Senate is playing politics — and threatening a shutdown that would leave our troops in limbo.
The solution: To protect our military families no matter what happens in Washington, I’m also leading the bipartisan Pay Our Troops Act. This bill ensures that in the event of a shutdown, those serving our country still get paid.
It guarantees pay for:
✅ All active-duty servicemembers and reserve troops on deployment
✅ Civilian staff at DoD and DHS supporting active-duty troops
✅ Mission-critical defense contractors
Bottom Line: Our men and women in uniform don’t get to hit pause when things get tough. Neither should Congress. I’ll keep fighting to make sure those who serve are honored, supported, and paid on time.