Over 15 years ago, I I founded the Counterinsurgency Training Center in Afghanistan. As we sought to train US, Afghan, and Coalition Forces, I sought assistance from the US Agency that had done the most work in supporting our policies in Afghanistan at the time – often at great peril to themselves – the USAID. Mike Metrinko, who was a former Iranian hostage, was one of our first instructors. He flew in from dangerous work for USAID in Western Afghanistan on a “Provincial Reconstruction Team” and seamlessly switched between English and Dari to instruct Coalition Forces and Afghan allies on how we might be able to change our approach in Afghanistan (sadly, we never got there.)
Mike embodied the ethos of USAID, advancing US policy at great risk to himself. Over the years, I’ve worked with USAID in multiple capacities and seen the profound effect that our foreign aid has on not only communities abroad but also on US national security. Today, as the President shutters USAID, an outbreak of Ebola is happening in Uganda. USAID funds the public health infrastructure that would normally attack this outbreak, saving lives of Ugandans, and also making sure the outbreak doesn’t make it to the United States. That’s why the President’s attack on USAID is so dangerous. Our aid impacts the lives of tens of millions of individuals around the world each year, but ultimately it also serves the United States’ interests and very directly keeps America safe.
For years, I have argued that the government must deliver on its promises, and I’ve fought to make decision-making quicker and more focused on the impact on citizens. I think we have to respect taxpayer money. We need to make sure the government is responsive to the needs of Americans. We need to deliver the important outcomes outlined in our laws. Treating American foreign policy like a reality show is not only destroying the livelihoods of Americans who have served their country honorably and at great risk, but also deeply undermining our safety at home. It’s sad, but it’s also a reminder that it is on each of us to make sure we turn our country back in the right direction.
Winter Happenings
I built my own superhero mini-figure at the Lego Group’s annual Lego Day, an event to raise awareness of the need to protect kids online.
I had a great conversation with Fairfax County School Board members Robyn Lady and Seema Dixit about how our office can help support our local school system.
I got to enjoy some delicious oysters at the Chesapeake Oyster Alliance and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Oysters on Capitol Square event.
I attended the Legislative Blockchain Showcase where I got to visit with some exciting small businesses paving the way for new tech jobs in Virginia.
I had the opportunity to meet with the VCU Student Government. It’s always inspiring to see our students advocating for issues they believe in. 
I had a wonderful night at Speaker Don Scott’s Black and White Gala, it was a great break during crossover week.
In the News
Our work in the General Assembly has been getting some press this week: Virginia Mercury: Virginia lawmakers fumble bill to curb high school sports recruitment(Feb 5, 2025) Despite the setback, the fight isn’t over. Our bill, HB1656, which sought to prohibit school officials from accepting money or gifts intended to sway a student’s decision to transfer schools for athletic reasons didn’t make it this year. We’ll be working with our local school board officials and advocates to help address this issue over the next several months.
Local Events
Valentine’s Weekend February 13-16th, 2025Trummer’s , 7135 Main Street, Clifton, VA 20124 Happy Valentine’s Weekend from Trummer’s! Still looking for plans on that special day? Check out their website for a variety of events they are hosting.
Beginner Watercolor Workshop February 16, 20253 pm to 5 pmClifton Cafe, 7144 Main Street, Clifton, VA 20124 Come and enjoy lunch and afterwards take an in-person watercolor class with Carol Natalie Creative at the Clifton Cafe. No drawing skills required but reservations are filling up fast so if interested, check out the event listing for more information!
Announcements
Applications Open for The Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership The Sorensen Insitute for Political Leadership is seeking civic-minded students from across Virginia to apply to the 2025 High School Leaders Program (HSLP)! The HSLP is a two-summer program designed for Virginia high school students who have a passion for public service and leadership. The HSLP curriculum covers the foundations of public policy and effective civic engagement, while connecting students with peers of different backgrounds and philosophies from around the state. Admitted students live on Grounds at the University of Virginia, attend field trips, and networks with current leaders in Virginia’s public, private, and non-profit sectors. The online application for the 2025 HSLP is open through Monday, March 17, 2025, and materials are due by Friday, March 21, 2025. To learn more or refer a candidate, visit here or contact Sorensen’s Community Relations and Program Recruiting Assistant, Samuel Barndt at srb6dp@virginia.edu.
Nominations Needed!!!!!!One of the best parts about serving in the General Assembly is being able to honor individuals, groups and organizations in the 10th district that deserve recognition with a Commending or Memorial Resolution. Know a person who has given back to the community, a group engaged in an activity worthy of noting, a small business doing a great job, or a team that has excelled either on the field or off? Tell us about it! We can also honor significant anniversaries both for couples and institutions, as well as remember those that have passed. Email us all the details at deldhelmer@house.virginia.gov and a member of my staff will be in touch.
