Coffee with Congressman Robert Aderholt — April Update

From the Office of Congressman Robert Aderholt

Before we get into it, I’m sure like you, I was glad to finally see some much-needed rain this week. North Alabama hasn’t had it as rough as our neighbors down in places like Dothan, but it had gotten pretty dry here too. I know our farmers, and even those of us just tending a few tomato plants, were grateful for it.

Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026

House Republicans advanced H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, to secure America’s food supply chain, protect national security, and keep agriculture growing for the next generation. 

Passing the Farm Bill delivers real relief and certainty for rural America and Alabama. This updated bill is a step towards relief and support of our farmers, ranchers, foresters, and rural communities.  

America’s farmers feed, fuel, and sustain this nation, and I am proud to help deliver the support they need while protecting our farmland from foreign adversaries. 

Ending the Department of Homeland Security Government Shutdown 

House of Representatives passed the twelfth and final appropriations bill, funding the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to provide resources to TSA, FEMA, CISA, the U.S. Coast Guard, and other critical agencies. 

For 76 days, Democrats kept DHS shut down. House Democrats had numerous opportunities to stand with the men and women who risk their lives for our ports, our borders, and other critical infrastructure.  

Backed by President Trump, House Republicans acted to end this shutdown and restore critical operations to DHS, while using reconciliation to fund ICE and CBP for the next three years.

Appropriations Committee Work - FY27 Budget Request Hearings with Cabinet Officials

This week the House Appropriations Committee started full-committee markups for Fiscal Year 2027. We are continuing to deliver accountability for the nation, while funding the federal government. 

It was great to speak with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins, during the Agriculture Subcommittee hearing on the FY27 budget request.  
Alabama’s Fourth District is one of the top poultry districts in the nation and I look forward to continuing working with Secretary Rollins and President Trump to make sure we are investing in rural America and supporting our farmers. 

It also was an honor to hear from U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., during the Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Subcommittee hearing on the FY27 budget request.  

As Chairman of the Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Subcommittee, I look forward to continuing working with Secretary Kennedy to improve our healthcare system, focusing on long-term outcomes for Americans, and supporting rural healthcare efforts.

USDA Rural Development Grants for AL-04

I was honored to announce two Community Facilities Grants for Alabama’s Fourth Congressional District through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development.  These targeted grants were funded in the FY26 appropriations process.

The USDA Community Facilities Grants were awarded to Marion and DeKalb counties and will be used to directly benefit public service buildings and improve the quality of life of rural communities. 

DeKalb County – Northeast Alabama Community College 
$273,188 to purchase equipment for the nursing program to ensure high-quality healthcare education at the college, strengthen simulation-based and interdisciplinary training, and prepare graduates to meet the complex healthcare needs of the rural communities. 

Marion County – Winfield Fire Department 
$32,000 to be used to purchase equipment that replaces outdated equipment for the City of Winfield Fire Department. 

These projects are exactly the kind of targeted, community-driven investments that make a real difference for the people of Alabama’s Fourth District. By improving educational opportunities and expanding first responder capabilities, we’re ensuring that our rural communities continue to thrive. 

Our first responders and healthcare professionals play a critical role in our economy and communities, and they deserve access to high-quality, life-saving equipment and resources. 

$750,000 ARC Grant for Cullman Community Theater Project

I was also proud to announce a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), which is funded by Congress.

For the city of Cullman, $750,000 to support the renovation of a new community theater in the city’s downtown district.

The funding will be matched by $750,000 in local investment, bringing the total project cost to $1.5 million. 

The project will convert a vacant church, previously home to a congregation that disbanded several years ago, into a 6,050-square-foot Community Theater Center featuring a 200-seat performance hall, stage, dressing rooms, and event space.  

Faith Month

April was Faith Month. I want to take a moment to mention the value of our country’s freedom of religion and our ability to worship freely.

For me personally, each and every day is an opportunity to celebrate faith. Prayer has played an important role both in my life and the life of this nation, and I am thankful for the opportunity to express my beliefs in a nation that celebrates religious freedom. 

As Chairman of the House Values Action Team, I have the privilege to work to ensure the bills that come across the House Floor are reflective of the protection of faith. I look forward to continuing to protect the special right we have as Americans to pray and celebrate our faith. 

Announcement of JST in Marshall County 

Caroline and I were honored to attend the announcement of a $500 million economic investment in Marshall County.

JST’s new automation-based facility marks a major milestone not just for Guntersville, but for the entire region. This investment reflects a strong vote of confidence in American workers, advanced technology, and the long-term strength of our manufacturing base. As a global leader with operations in 17 countries, JST chose Alabama’s Fourth Congressional District for its first major investment in the southeastern United States—a decision that speaks volumes about our workforce and business climate.

This announcement also builds on a relationship that spans more than two decades. Since 2003, JST has been a valued part of the community, steadily growing and contributing to the local economy. It’s a powerful example of what can happen when strong local leadership, a skilled workforce, and a commitment to innovation come together to attract world-class investment.

Remote Office Hours in Tuscaloosa and Franklin Counties

In May, our office will continue to host remote office hours as part of our ongoing effort to stay accessible and engaged with constituents across the Fourth District. 
 
A Field Representative from my office will be on hand in Tuscaloosa and Franklin counties to meet with residents and assist with issues related to federal agencies, including Social Security, veterans’ services, and other government programs.  

Franklin County - May 14, 2026 
9:30 AM - 12:00 PM  
Russellville City Hall  
304 N Jackson Ave,  
Russellville, AL 35633  

Tuscaloosa County - May 15, 2026 
9:30 AM - 12:00 PM  
Northport City Hall  
3500 McFarland Blvd, 
Northport, AL 35476 

These outreach efforts are an important way we ensure that individuals and families, especially in our rural communities, have direct access to assistance and a voice in Washington. 
We remain committed to serving every corner of the district and look forward to continuing these opportunities to connect and assist. 

Fourth District Feel Good News: Annual Art Competition

My office was excited to host the 2026 Fourth Congressional District Art Competition. The Congressional Art Competition is an annual event that highlights artistic achievements from high school students nationwide.  

Congratulations to the top overall winner, Alaina Riggs of West Point High School. Her artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol Complex for one year.  
Riggs will also travel to Washington, D.C. this summer with a guest to attend the national Congressional Art Competition ceremony, with airfare provided by Southwest Airlines. 

Also, I want to congratulate Katarina Marcus from Boaz High School on winning our People’s Choice Award. This goes to the student whose artwork receives the most “likes” on social media.  

I want to sincerely thank Wallace State Community College for graciously hosting this year’s awards ceremony and offering scholarships to the category winners, and The Westervelt Company of Tuscaloosa for their continued support as a sponsor of this important program.

Mother‘s Day 2026

Mother’s Day is coming up on May 10th, and it’s a special time to recognize the women who give so much of themselves to their families each and every day. Mothers are the foundation of our homes, and their love, strength, and guidance shape the next generation in ways that cannot be measured.

I want to wish all the moms across Alabama’s Fourth District a very happy Mother’s Day. Your sacrifices do not go unnoticed, and your impact is felt far beyond your own families.

I am especially grateful for my wife, Caroline, whose love and devotion to our family means more than I can express. I also want to wish a happy Mother’s Day to our daughter, Mary Elliott, as she prepares to welcome her first child—a baby boy—later this summer with her husband, Grant. This is a joyful season for our family, and we are looking forward to becoming grandparents.

May God bless you and your loved ones.

Sincerely,

Robert B. Aderholt