Kelly, Trent RSS Articles

Kelly, Guest, and Ezell Back President Trump's Defense, Farm Aid, and Election-Security Priorities

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Trent Kelly (R-Miss.), Michael Guest (R-Miss.), and Mike Ezell (R-Miss.) sent a letter to President Donald J. Trump expressing their strong support for his legislative efforts to address critical national defense, agricultural, and election-security priorities.

“The threats facing our nation require the Department of War to have the resources necessary to defend the United States and protect American interests,” the lawmakers wrote. “Our brave men and women in uniform deserve the equipment, munitions, and support needed to carry out their missions and return home safely.”

The Mississippi lawmakers also emphasized the urgent need to provide relief to struggling farmers.

“Family farms across Mississippi are going out of business, while many others are struggling to survive from one crop year to the next,” they wrote. “This assistance would provide a critical lifeline, helping our farmers remain in operation, meet their obligations, and continue producing the food and fiber our nation depends upon.”

Kelly, Guest, and Ezell also expressed support for expanding access to voter identification, encouraging strong state election practices, and accounting for the SAVE America Act in the Senate budget resolution.

“You can count on our support as we urge the Senate to act and work to send the subsequent reconciliation package to your desk without delay,” the lawmakers concluded.

Read the full letter below.

Dear Mr. President,

As members of the Mississippi congressional delegation, we write to express our strong support for your efforts to address critical national defense, agricultural, and election-security priorities through the budget reconciliation process. We urge the Senate to support your requests and move expeditiously to finalize and pass a budget resolution.

The threats facing our nation require the Department of War to have the resources necessary to defend the United States and protect American interests. Our brave men and women in uniform deserve the equipment, munitions, and support needed to carry out their missions and return home safely. We fully support your request to meet these immediate defense needs.

We also strongly support your request for farm aid. Family farms across Mississippi are going out of business, while many others are struggling to survive one crop year to the next. This assistance would provide a critical lifeline, helping our farmers remain in operation, meet their obligations, and continue producing the food and fiber our nation depends upon.

Finally, Americans deserve elections they can trust. We support your efforts to expand access to voter identification, encourage state election practices, and account for the SAVE America Act in the Senate budget resolution.

Thank you for your leadership on these priorities. You can count on our support as we urge the Senate to act and work to send the subsequent reconciliation package to your desk without delay.

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ND Defense Completes First Maritime Assembly in West Point

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

It was an honor to recognize ND Defense as the company celebrated the completion of its first maritime assembly. This new mission supports Ingalls Shipbuilding, the nation's largest builder of ships for the U.S. Navy, and marks an important milestone for both the company and Mississippi.

ND Defense is expanding its role from helping protect our warfighters on land to supporting our Navy at sea—all from its facility in West Point. As we work to strengthen America's naval fleet, partnerships like this are essential to rebuilding our nation's industrial base and meeting the Navy's growing needs.

This achievement represents more than the completion of a single component. It demonstrates how American manufacturers can apply their expertise to strengthen our shipbuilding capacity and reinforce our national defense. Maintaining that strength requires the talent and innovation of communities across the country, including rural America.

As Chairman of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, I know that strengthening America's naval fleet is more important than ever as we confront growing threats from our adversaries. The work being done here at ND Defense is helping ensure our Navy remains ready to meet those challenges. I am proud that ND Defense is advancing this mission and strengthening our national security right here in West Point.

Golden Triangle Regional Airport Celebrates Expansion Project

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

I was proud to join Golden Triangle Regional Airport to celebrate another milestone for Mississippi and the First District. GTR recently completed a project adding 8,200 square feet of terminal space and the airport’s first jet bridge to better serve travelers.

Projects like this are proof that Mississippi continues to grow. We are attracting new businesses, creating jobs, strengthening our infrastructure, and creating new opportunities across our state.

A strong airport is a key part of a strong economy. It connects our communities, supports economic growth, and helps make our region more competitive. This expansion ensures the airport is better equipped to meet the demands of tomorrow.

The Golden Triangle is an economic engine for our state, and projects like this strengthen the industries, businesses, and communities that call this region home. This is about more than a new terminal—it is about strengthening Mississippi’s economy, creating opportunities for future growth, and showing that the Golden Triangle is open for business.

Miss. Delegation Urges Trump to Approve Major Disaster Declaration for Mississippi

Wed, 20 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

The Mississippi congressional delegation today shared its strong support for Governor Tate Reeves' request for a major declaration after devastating tornadoes and severe weather struck the state on May 6-7, 2026.

U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., and U.S. Representatives Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., Trent Kelly, R-Miss., Michael Guest, R-Miss., and Mike Ezell, R-Miss., sent President Trump a letter endorsing the governor's request for an expedited major disaster declaration for Lamar, Lincoln, Franklin, Lawrence, and Wilkinson counties for individual assistance and public assistance. If approved, the major disaster declaration would unlock additional federal resources to supplement state recovery efforts.

"Several of the tornadoes caused catastrophic damage, including an EF3 tornado that, at times, exceeded a mile in width and remained on the ground for nearly 70 miles. The storms destroyed and severely damaged many homes and businesses, uprooted trees, crippled critical infrastructure, and caused widespread power outages affecting thousands of Mississippians," the lawmakers wrote. "Communities across the impacted region continue to face significant recovery challenges in the aftermath of these storms.

Read the full letter below.

Dear President Trump,

We respectfully write to urge your full and timely consideration of Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves' request for a Major Disaster Declaration following recent devastating tornadoes and severe weather in our state. We remain deeply grateful for the continued partnership and support provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in response to prior disasters, and we appreciate the agency's ongoing coordination with state and local officials as damage assessments continue.

On the evening of May 6, 2026, and early morning of May 7, 2026, multiple Mississippi counties experienced destructive weather conditions, including supercell thunderstorms that produced at least seven confirmed tornadoes across portions of the state. Several of the tornadoes caused catastrophic damage, including an EF3 tornado that, at times, exceeded a mile in width and remained on the ground for nearly 70 miles. The storms destroyed and severely damaged many homes and businesses, uprooted trees, crippled critical infrastructure, and caused widespread power outages affecting thousands of Mississippians. Communities across the impacted region continue to face significant recovery challenges in the aftermath of these storms.

Governor Reeves' request includes both Individual Assistance and Public Assistance for Lamar, Lincoln, Franklin, Lawrence, and Wilkinson counties. The magnitude of the destruction has placed extraordinary strain on our state and local resources, and the capabilities of volunteer and charitable organizations alone will not be sufficient to meet the long-term recovery needs of affected communities. Federal assistance will be critical to support the recovery of these communities.

Thank you for your consideration of this request. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you need further assistance in this effort.

Congressman Kelly Announces Service Academy Appointment

Tue, 12 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Trent Kelly is proud to announce the appointment of Karter Vahle, of Oxford, Mississippi, to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.

Each year, members of Congress may nominate candidates to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while receiving a top-tier education.

Karter has distinguished himself as a dedicated student and leader at Oxford High School. He serves as a Captain in MCROTC and has held the role of Company Commanding Officer since last spring. His leadership and commitment have earned him numerous honors, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars Bronze Medal, the Navy League Youth Medal, and the Raider Nationals Achievement Medal. He also serves as President of DECA, Vice President of Phi Theta Kappa, and held leadership roles at Boys State, including positions in the Federalist Party Executive and House of Representatives.

Academically, Karter has excelled through rigorous coursework, including multiple dual credit classes, and has earned strong standardized test scores and several academic awards. In May 2026, he is expected to graduate from both Oxford High School and Northwest Mississippi Community College, where he will earn an Associate of Arts degree in Criminal Justice.

Beyond the classroom, Karter is actively involved in athletics and extracurricular activities. He competes on the Oxford High School Cross Country and Archery teams and has contributed to MCJROTC through the drill team, color guard, and raider team. He has also demonstrated a strong commitment to service, completing 143 hours of community service.

Karter's achievements reflect his dedication to excellence and leadership. He has been recognized as a Boys State delegate and National Honor Society member and has completed several prestigious programs, including the Air Force Academy Summer Seminar (Session C), the Naval Academy Summer Seminar (Session 2), the MCJROTC Senior Leadership Course, and the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce Junior Leadership Course.

"I would like to commission into the United States Marine Corps and be a fixed wing pilot," Karter said. "I am most excited for the opportunity to learn from others, to better my leadership skills, and to get stronger mentally and physically."

For more information about the Service Academy nomination process through our office, visit trentkelly.house.gov.

Congressman Kelly Announces Service Academy Appointment

Tue, 12 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Trent Kelly is proud to announce the appointment of Noel "Trice" McMichael III, of Shannon, Mississippi, to the United States Naval Academy.

Each year, members of Congress may nominate candidates to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while receiving a top-tier education.

Trice is a dedicated and high-achieving student at the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science (MSMS), where he maintains a 4.0 GPA and was a member of the 2024 NEMBDA Honors Band. Prior to attending MSMS, he attended South Pontotoc High School, where he was a member of the National Beta Club and earned several top academic awards.

In addition to his academic success, Trice has excelled in martial arts, earning honors including Innovative Martial Arts Systems Top Ten recognition and the title of First Martial Arts National Champion. His commitment to the sport extends beyond competition, as he has volunteered as a judge for First Martial Arts and served as an event supervisor for Spark Submission Sports.

Trice is also known for his strong work ethic and hands-on experience. He has worked several years as an assistant plumber alongside his father and has pursued research opportunities in science and technology. He served as a lab technician and research student for ARISE at the University of Mississippi and conducted research for Tales from the Crypt at MSMS.

"I am most excited about the classes," said Trice. "At MSMS, our teachers are great and so is the curriculum, but I know the Naval Academy is a completely different level. Right now, I wish to major in Foreign Area Studies, specializing in Russian."

For more information about the Service Academy nomination process through our office, visit trentkelly.house.gov.

Congressman Kelly Announces Service Academy Appointment

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Trent Kelly is proud to announce the appointment of Jonah Uithoven of Belden, Mississippi, to the United States Air Force Academy.

Each Year, members of Congress may nominate candidates to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while receiving a top-tier education.

Jonah Uithoven is a dedicated student leader and freshman at Marion Military Institute. During his time there, he was named Outstanding Recruit of the Cycle, earned a direct promotion to Staff Sergeant, served in a squad leadership role, and was selected for the Honor Council.

Prior to MMI, Jonah demonstrated exceptional leadership at North Pontotoc High School, where he served as Student Council President, BETA President, Class of 2025 Student Body President, and a member of the Student Leadership Team. He is also a multi-sport athlete, competing in wrestling, archery, and football, where he served as team captain.

Jonah has been actively engaged in service opportunities, including Mississippi Boys State (Senate Appointee and State City Adviser), Night to Shine volunteer work, participation in the U.S. Air Force Academy Summer Seminar, student guide for the Special Olympics, and involvement with SALT volunteer programs.

In recognition of his academic excellence, he has earned distinctions including Special Honors Graduate, the Superintendent's Award, Distinguished Academic Endorsement, Scholar-Athlete honors, and the ACT Silver Medal.

"I was inspired to pursue a Service Academy Appointment by my dream to fly and fight for the greatest country in the world," Jonah said. "I am most excited to be joining a great group of people, a great culture, and a heritage that will be behind me for the rest of my life."

For more information about the Service Academy nomination process through our office, visit trentkelly.house.gov.

Kelly Announces First Congressional District Art Competition Winners

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Trent Kelly is proud to announce Abigail Presley as the winner of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Mississippi’s First Congressional District.

Presley, a junior at Corinth High School, earned this honor for her watercolor painting titled “Legacy.” Her art teacher is Jennifer LeGoff at Corinth High School. She is the daughter of Edward and Michelle Presley.

"Military service is a big part of our family's life," Presley said. "I appreciate this recognition for my family and my artwork."

"I could tell she was immensely talented from the first time I saw her work," LeGoff said. "She has come into her own and gained so much confidence."

The Congressional Art Competition is an annual event that highlights and encourages the creative talents of high school students across the country, with one winner selected from each congressional district. Presley’s artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year, and she will receive two airline tickets to attend the national awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., this summer.

2nd Place: Isabella Hancock, Hernando, MS – Acrylic painting titled “King of the Jungle”
3rd Place: Carley Foster, Booneville High School – Acrylic painting titled “Luke 16:10”
4th Place: Hannah Horton, New Albany High School – Acrylic painting titled “Dance With Me?”
5th Place: Aylin Hernandez, Corinth High School – Artwork titled “Sophia’s First”
5th Place: Isaac Snodgrass, Alcorn Central High School – Pencil drawing titled “Best Friend”

Congressman Kelly Announces Service Academy Appointment

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Trent Kelly is proud to announce the appointment of Elizabeth (Ellie) Grehan of Hernando, Mississippi, to the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Each year, members of Congress may nominate candidates to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while receiving a top-tier education.

Ellie is a dedicated student-athlete who has excelled academically throughout her high school career. She is a student at Hernando High School, where she has maintained a 4.0+ GPA across all four years while earning outstanding standardized testing scores.

She is also an accomplished multi-sport athlete competing on the Hernando High School junior varsity basketball team, junior varsity cross country team, and varsity track and field, where she qualified for state regionals.

Ellie's leadership is reflected through her extracurricular involvement and community engagement. She serves as Director of Communications for the Hernando Mayor's Youth Council and works as an umpire and game clock operator for Hernando Park and Recreation.

Congressman Kelly Announces Service Academy Appointment

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Trent Kelly is proud to announce the appointment of Shaw Prewitt of Shannon, Mississippi, to the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Each year, members of Congress may nominate candidate to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while receiving a top-tier education.

Shaw Prewitt has distinguished himself as an exceptional scholar, athlete, and servant leader. He attended South Pontotoc High School from 2022 to 2024 and currently attends the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science, where he continues to excel in Advanced Placement and dual-credit coursework.

An accomplished athlete, Shaw is trained in mixed martial arts and competed in wrestling, powerlifting, and football at South Pontotoc High School. At the Mississippi School for Math and Science, he founded the school's wrestling team and serves as captain.

Shaw's leadership extends well beyond the classroom and athletic field. He has served as Honorary President of the Mississippi State Society Children of the American Revolution, County Representative of American Legion Boys State, and Historian of the Indigenous Student Alliance. He earned the rank of Eagle Scout with Boys Scout of America Troop 12 and has served as Mississippi Senate Page for Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hoseman, as well as a U.S. Senate Page in Washington, D.C., for Senator Roger Wicker.

Committed to serving his community, Shaw has volunteered through his Eagle Scout Project, "Beds for Kids," the MSMS Volunteer Service Program, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, "Tales from the Crypt," and St. James Catholic Church, where he is a member of the Lift Teen Youth Group, among many other service initiatives.