Burlison Brief

Honoring the lives of Deputies Michael Hislope and Gabriel Ramirez

Our community is mourning the loss of Deputy Michael Hislope and Deputy Gabriel Ramirez of the Christian County Sheriff’s Office, who were killed in the line of duty while protecting southwest Missouri. Both men were United States Army veterans who chose to continue serving their neighbors as law enforcement officers here at home. Their courage and sacrifice reflect the highest ideals of public service. We continue to pray for their families, their fellow officers, and all those across our community who are grieving this devastating loss. 

President Trump delivers historic State of the Union address

President Trump’s State of the Union address focused on the people and moments that reflect American strength and resolve. He honored law enforcement officers, military families and victims of violent crime and fentanyl trafficking, emphasizing the real-world consequences of failed border and public safety policies. A standout moment came when the president recognized the USA men’s hockey team, drawing bipartisan applause and highlighting a shared sense of national pride.  

The president drew a clear contrast between Democratic policies that have driven higher costs, open borders and wasteful spending and a Republican agenda focused on affordability, accountability, freedom and public safety, while also making clear that Republicans still have work to do to deliver on our mandate.

Behind closed doors: The Clinton depositions

I was recently in Chappaqua, New York, for depositions conducted by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform as part of our ongoing investigation into Jeffrey Epstein and how powerful institutions failed his victims. After months of delay, Hillary Clinton appeared for a lengthy deposition, during which she deferred answers to many substantive questions to her husband, former President Bill Clinton. Based on documents, emails, visitor logs and flight records already in the public record, the committee proceeded with Bill Clinton’s deposition to address those unanswered questions. Our work remains focused on transparency, accountability and ensuring the American people receive clear answers about how power and influence shielded wrongdoing for far too long. 

Water Resources Subcommittee Hearing highlights Corps reform

The Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment held a hearing on proposals for the Water Resources Development Act of 2026, where I addressed the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ recent changes in approach. I thanked Corps leadership for what I described as a “sea change” in attitude and respect for citizens and taxpayers, including direct community engagement around Table Rock Lake to explain updated policies. I also raised the importance of accountability and ensuring that congressionally appropriated funds are fully executed to deliver needed infrastructure.

Trump’s UAP disclosure push collides with House declassification effort

President Trump recently posted on Truth Social that he wants several federal agencies to identify and release records relating to unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP). He stated he would be directing the relevant agencies, including the Department of War, to begin locating and reviewing files that could be declassified and emphasized that Americans deserve more transparency.  

A formal list of specific documents or a public-release timeline has not yet been issued. This push for disclosure aligns with the House Task Force on the Declassification of Federal Secrets’ mandate to reduce over-classification and increase transparency around UAP and other long-held federal records. 

Congress demands answers on Minnesota’s taxpayer heist

The House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform recently planned a hearing on one of the biggest alleged fraud scandals in recent memory — billions of taxpayer dollars looted from Minnesota's social programs under the watch of Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison. Minnesota state lawmakers testified last month that leadership ignored repeated warnings and retaliated against employees who raised concerns. Americans deserve transparency and trust when it comes to their taxpayer money. 

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Need help with a federal agency?

If you are having a problem getting a timely answer from a federal agency or feel like you've been treated unfairly, my office may be able to help. My office helps constituents with issues involving the VA, the IRS, Social Security, the State Department, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, and other federal agencies. To learn more and submit a request for help with a federal agency: https://burlison.house.gov/services/help-federal-agency

Tours and tickets

As constituents of Missouri's 7th Congressional District, you may request tickets and tours for the White House and U.S. Capitol. Tickets are provided on a first-come, first-serve basis, so get your tickets in early. To request tours and tickets: https://burlison.house.gov/services/tours-and-tickets

Internships

Are you or someone you know interested in a career in public service? We have opportunities in my Joplin, Springfield and Washington offices. To learn more about our internship program and apply: https://burlison.house.gov/services/internships

And, that’s it for the Burlison Brief!

Best, 

Rep. Eric Burlison

Member of Congress