Week of July 28, 2024

This is "Arkies in the Beltway" for the week of July 28, 2024. I'm Alex Thomas, Washington Correspondent for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, with your look at national politics and the Arkansans influencing the discussions.

Arkansas' delegation for this year's Democratic National Convention did not waste any time backing Vice President Kamala Harris as their party's presidential nominee.

Delegates voted unanimously to support Harris, who is expected to lead the Democratic Party's presidential ticket following President Joe Biden's decision to drop out of the race. Harris has received overwhelming national support in the days following Biden's move, setting herself up to become the party's pick to face former President Donald Trump in November.

STORY: Arkansas delegation for 2024 Democratic National Convention endorses Harris in presidential race

Members of Arkansas' congressional delegation spoke highly of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following his address during a joint meeting of Congress.

Netanyahu's appearance on Capitol Hill was met with protests outside the U.S. Capitol as Israel continues to face questions regarding its tactics amid its war against Hamas.

STORY: Arkansas lawmakers celebrate Netanyahu following Capitol Hill address

We have an idea when the statue of Johnny Cash will be unveiled on Capitol Hill.

The U.S. House of Representatives approved a concurrent resolution last week authorizing the use of Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center for an unveiling ceremony. The resolution notes Sept. 24 as the date for the event.

STORY: U.S. House approves Sept. 24 for ceremony unveiling Cash statue

The Senate and House will spend the month of August away from Capitol Hill for Congress' annual August recess.

When lawmakers return to Washington, D.C., they will not have much time to address their end-of-year to-do list and complete their legislative tasks for the year.

One important item in need of congressional action: a new version of the Water Resources Development Act, which authorizes projects under the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as well as research on water resources and ecosystems.

Check out this story in Monday's edition of the Democrat-Gazette.

Thank you for supporting "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can also track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.