Sen. Jerry Moran: Kansas Common Sense newsletter
Promoting the Air Capital of the World
The International Air Show brings together aviation, defense and space stakeholders from across the globe to showcase the latest innovation and international cooperation of these industries. I led a bipartisan group of senators to recognize the United States’ leadership in the aerospace and defense industries. The capabilities of the Kansas workforce were on full display at the air show. This year, I led the largest-ever delegation of Kansans to the air show, surpassing last year’s numbers and promoting the capabilities of the Air Capital of the World on a global stage.
I was the honorary host, alongside the Greater Wichita Partnership, at an event that brought together more than 500 leaders across industry, government, academia and Kansas. I appreciate Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy attending as well as leaders from the FAA, the Department of Defense and the Department of Commerce, emphasizing Kansas’ role in our national aviation, defense and space industries.
Opening the Kansas Booth at the Air Show
I was joined by Lt. Governor David Toland, Rep. Ron Estes, Rep. Sharice Davids, Wichita Mayor Lily Wu, Sedgwick County Commissioner Pete Meitzner, Wichita State University President Richard Muma, NIAR, WSU Tech and leaders from across Kansas in opening the Kansas booth at the air show. Kansans are doing valuable work around the world, and I enjoyed meeting individuals from all across our state, including Stockton, Ulysses, Tipton and airmen from McConnell Air Force Base. I am also grateful to Transportation Secretary Duffy for his appearance at the booth’s opening and for his continued commitment to maintaining the safety and security of our nation’s transportation industry.
Announcing New Aerospace Industry Investments in Kansas
While at the air show, I participated in the announcements of new aerospace investments in Kansas, including the launch of a Kansas startup, Ad Astra Sky Supply; a partnership between Fiber Dynamics, a Wichita-based company, and an Austria-based company; and the relocation of a cybersecurity company’s headquarters, Knowmadics, to Wichita. There is no doubt that we are the Air Capital of the World, and we are going to work hard to make sure we keep it.
Receiving an Update on U.S. Military Readiness in Europe
During the congressional delegation visit to the air show, I received a briefing from General Christopher Donahue, Commanding General of U.S. Army Europe and Africa. He briefed the congressional delegation on the current conflict in Europe and how U.S. soldiers are supporting the deterrence of Russia on the continent, as well as the lessons being gathered and utilized to equip the Army to maintain lethality in future conflicts. What happens in all regions of the world, including Europe, has consequences for our national security. Thank you to General Donahue for his continued leadership in this critical mission.
Addressing U.S. Military Strikes on Iranian Nuclear FacilitiesOver the weekend, President Trump authorized U.S. military action against three nuclear facilities inside Iranian territory. Iran is an adversary of the U.S. and should not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon. Our military executed its mission professionally and courageously. I remain hopeful that diplomatic efforts can and will prevail. I pray for the safety of all our troops in the region, and we must be vigilant in protecting against any Iranian threats to Americans around the globe.
Questioning Army Leadership on Proposed Army FY26 Budget Request
This week, the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing to review the Army’s FY26 budget request. During the hearing, I raised concerns with the current approach to the “Army Transformation Initiative.” In May 2025, the Army announced several new acquisition priorities and its intent to terminate several other programs. I agree that the Army needs the ability to rapidly field capabilities to make certain that our soldiers have the most up-to-date technologies to fight and win. This announcement also includes an acceleration of the Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) program, delivering an assault capability with the speed and maneuverability necessary for the Army. However, the next steps have only been described broadly, inhibiting the Appropriations Committee’s ability to develop an FY26 budget for the services. I also raised concerns about the bureaucratic challenges in hiring the necessary Army Corps of Engineers staff at Council Grove Lake, which has led to an avoidable closure of parts of the lake this summer. I am thankful for Secretary Driscoll’s continued engagement and commitment to push this issue through the Army Corps hiring process.
Thank you to Secretary Driscoll and Army Chief of Staff General Randy George for their continued service and leadership in the Army. Our nation’s challenges are significant and are relevant in all regions of the globe. Our Army must be adequately resourced to be the world’s most lethal force, ready to fight and win, if necessary.
Discussing Health Care Priorities with the Kansas Hospital Association
This week, I met with representatives from the Kansas Hospital Association, who were in Washington, D.C., to advocate for Kansas hospitals as Congress continues the budget reconciliation process. The Senate’s version of the reconciliation bill makes commonsense changes to reduce waste and implement work requirements in the Medicaid program, but the proposed changes to the state directed payments could have a negative impact on Kansas hospitals. As my colleagues and I continue to work to finalize this legislation, I will work to keep rural providers, who are already facing numerous challenges, at the forefront of these discussions.
Urging Acting USPS Postmaster General to Retain Post Office in Park City
This week, with Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) and Rep. Ron Estes (KS-04), I urged Acting United States Postal Service (USPS) Postmaster General Doug Tulino to retain the presence of a post office in Park City. Park City is a growing city, expected to exceed 12,000 residents within the next 5 to 10 years, and it should continue to receive the support of the USPS. Thank you to my Kansas colleagues for showing their support for this effort, and I look forward to hearing from Acting Postmaster General Tulino on this matter.
Visits Across Kansas
Great Plains Manufacturing
On Thursday, I toured Great Plains Manufacturing in Ellsworth. The Ellsworth facility includes two main assembly lines that manufacture a variety of Kubota products. This location employs 100 Kansans and is the company’s largest ag tilling plant. During my visit, we discussed issues facing Great Plains Manufacturing such as hiring challenges, agriculture markets, tariffs as well as Farm Bill priorities. Thank you to Jeff Ford, Plant Manager, and Jamie Hall, Director of Government Affairs, for the tour.
Clara Barton Hospital
I also toured Clara Barton Hospital in Hoisington for a firsthand look at how the facility has expanded and enhanced its care and specialties. During my visit, I learned more about its future plans to grow and witnessed the hospital’s strong commitment to serving the community. Thank you to CEO Jay Tusten, CFO Alan Meisinger, Director of Public Relations Sydney Dolezal and the rest of the staff for hosting me.
Memorial Health System
This week, I visited Memorial Health System in Abilene. During my tour, I met with CFO Elgin Glanzer and Director of Operations Sara Boyd. We discussed how Memorial Health System is looking to increase accessibility to quality health care within their community. Thank you to Elgin, Sara and all those who met with me on the tour.
Kansas Highway Patrol Training Center
On Friday, I traveled to Salina and toured the Kansas Highway Patrol Training Center. While on the tour, I met with Kansas American Legion Cadets to hear about their experience within the program. As Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies with jurisdiction over the Department of Justice, I am committed to making certain law enforcement receives the resources needed to keep our communities safe. I am grateful to the men and women of the Kansas Highway Patrol for their tireless efforts to keep us safe on the road.
General Atomic
I visited General Atomics in Salina for a tour of its facility. General Atomics is a leader and pioneer within the aerospace industry, and I am grateful for their continued investment in Kansas. Thank you to Senior Manager Craig Bronson and Technical Editor Brian Winton for taking the time to show me around.
Salina Community
While in Salina, I visited Morrison Ventures, UMB Bank and the Salina Chamber of Commerce to meet with members of the community. I also stopped by Dave Freeland, CPA, Farm Bureau Financial Services, Community Economic Development Organization and Gourmet Eats. Thank you to the Salina community and everyone who took the time to visit with me.
Remembering Kansas High School Football Coach Roger BartaI was saddened to hear of the passing of Plainville native Roger Barta. After his own football career ended early due to an injury, Coach Barta chose to coach the next generation of football players and, more importantly, teach them to become men of character. He led Smith Center High School football to the longest winning streak in the nation, but the most influential lessons he instilled in his team were the values of hard work, perseverance and teamwork. Coach Barta was once asked about his coaching philosophy and he simply said: “None of this is really about football. What we’re doing is sending kids into life who know that every day means something. What we do real well around here is raise kids.”
Coach Barta leaves behind a legacy of excellence in the students and rural Kansas communities he impacted. My prayers are with his wife Pam and their family during this difficult time.
Celebrating JuneteenthOn June 19th, 1865, the last enslaved African Americans in the U.S. learned that the Civil War had ended and they were free. Kansas played an important role in the fight against slavery and for civil rights for all Americans. May we continue to strive for a more perfect union.
Now Accepting 2025 Service Academy Applications
Applications are now open for students to apply to a United States Service Academy for the Class of 2030. One of my favorite duties as a U.S. Senator is appointing Kansans to the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York; the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York.
For the list of requirements and to apply, you can visit my website here. All application materials are due to my Olathe office by Friday, October 4, 2025. After applications have been reviewed, applicants will be notified of interviews with my Service Academy Selection Board.
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