Chamber welcomes Senator Moran to Wichita

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran made a in stop in Wichita yesterday to address 115 Chamber members and Wichita business leaders at a luncheon at the Hyatt Regency Wichita. After warming up the crowd with a few jokes (“For those of you who I have offended by being a Jayhawk, I can assure you that all of my money has gone to K-State after both of my daughter chose to be Wildcats”), the Senator spoke favorably about the people of Wichita and about his passion “to make things better for Kansas. I want to ensure that our kids will call Kansas ‘home’ in the future.” Following the Senator’s presentation, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Director of Congressional and Public Affairs Scott Eckart presented him with the Spirit of Enterprise Award, citing the Senator’s record of voting in alignment with the Chamber’s scorecard in the large majority of situations. Below is a short recap of the topics Senator Moran touched on. Economy & National Debt The Senator expressed his concern about a stagnant economy, both nationally and in Kansas. He indicated that reducing the national debt is why he ran for office. “Unfortunately a lot of what goes on in Washington is detrimental to the economy, and that’s what we are about wanting to change.” Wichita’s Aviation Industry The Senator referenced his reputation in D.C. as an aviation advocate. “I want you to know that I take this industry seriously and I have been working to put myself in a position of influence in regards to the decisions made that impact the aeronautics industry.” He now co-chairs the Aerospace Caucus and is a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. McConnell Air Force Base In regards to the arrival of the KC-46A Tanker mission to McConnell, the Senator said, “There are many projects that are occurring in preparation for the tanker. Our Defense Appropriations Sub-Committee recommended another $19.8M in new construction on the base, which will result in a boost in the surrounding economy.” What is good for McConnell is good for Wichita. Department of Labor (DOL) Ruling In regards to the recent DOL ruling about overtime pay, Senator Moran indicated he and others are working to find  a compromise that is not as harmful to business, adding, “The Department of Labor is in our crosshairs.” Veteran Affairs The Senator assured the audience that as a member of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, he will continue to work until all veterans have access to needed assistance through the local VAs. Photos from the event can be found on our Facebook page. Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, Cox Communications, for making the event possible. Other sponsors included Koch Industries, Meritrust Credit Union and GLMV Architecture.