Congressman Michael Baumgartner here, checking in with my “bosses”! I promised to keep you updated on the issues that matter most to Eastern Washington, so here’s an update on my week as your representative in Congress.

Honored to Serve Eastern Washington 

Over the last few weeks, I have heard your concerns about the direction of our country and the rapid changes being made by the new Administration. I want you to know that first and foremost I came to Congress to fight for Eastern Washington – its values and its people. That means, whether you voted for me or not, I work for you. I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve everyone in Eastern Washington, whether we agree or not. Please continue to reach out to share your concerns and to keep me informed on the issues and programs that matter to you.

As the new Administration takes root, and Congress asserts its power through the budget process, your calls and emails guide my push for responsible cost-cutting that preserves the best programs and people in our federal government. The best way to reach me is by visiting our website, where you can share your thoughts and stay updated.

A Budget for the American People

Every family in Eastern Washington understands the importance of living within a budget. Whether it’s setting aside savings for the future, managing monthly bills, or making difficult decisions about spending, we know that financial responsibility is the key to stability and long-term success. The federal government should be no different. Our national debt is $36 trillion—a burden that, if left unaddressed, threatens economic growth, raises costs for families, and puts essential programs at risk.  

That’s why I voted to support the House budget resolution—a responsible framework that begins the process of bending the curve on out-of-control spending while ensuring we extend tax relief for working families and small businesses. The fact is, we are spending more money on debt payments than we are on national security. It is like making a minimum credit card payment and letting the balance owed spiral ever higher. If Congress fails to act, the average American family would face a shocking tax increase, while skyrocketing interest payments on our national debt would stifle job creation and weaken our economy. This budget does not mandate indiscriminate cuts to critical programs. Instead, it sets responsible spending targets and directs congressional committees to find savings by rooting out waste, reducing fraud, and improving efficiency.

The work to restore fiscal discipline and protect our economy is just beginning. Over the next several weeks, Congress will debate and refine spending priorities.  I will continue to advocate for a balanced approach that puts Eastern Washington families first and work to fund essential services, keep taxes low and strengthen our military readiness.

Protecting the Integrity of College Sports

Sports should be about teamwork, perseverance, and fair play—not exploitation by the gambling industry. That’s why I introduced H.R. 1552, PROTECT Student Athletes Act. This bill does not prohibit betting on college games but directly targets wagers on individual player performances—bets that increase the risk of match-fixing, harassment, and undue pressure on student athletes. There is no reason sportsbooks should rake in $7.5 billion in revenue on the backs of student athletes while blurring the line between amateur and professional sports. 

Student athletes dedicate themselves to both their sport and education, and they deserve a system that prioritizes their well-being over financial interests.The rise of player prop bets has fueled online harassment, with studies showing that 1 in 3 college athletes receive abusive messages from disgruntled gamblers. Worse yet, the temptation for match-fixing has increased, putting the integrity of the game at risk. The NCAA has already investigated multiple cases of unusual wagering activity in 2024, highlighting the urgent need for action. If we want to protect the future of college sports, Congress must ensure that athletes are free to compete without fear of coercion or threats. H.R. 1552 is a commonsense step to safeguard student athletes and restore integrity to college sports.

I hope to keep communicating regularly—through updates like this newsletter, town halls, radio, TV, Zoom calls, and social media.

It is truly an honor to serve you.

Sincerely,

Rep. Michael Baumgartner

Member of Congress