Representative Ron Estes

.The House Ways and Means Committee held a full hearing where I questioned IRS CEO Frank Bisignano on how modernizing systems are being prioritized so that the biggest-risk and most taxpayer-visible systems are addressed first. I discussed how my constituents are having an easier time filing their taxes due to the boosted standard deduction, and that average refunds are expected to rise nearly $1,000 compared to last year. I also discussed the middle class receiving the largest relief of any income group, and that AARP estimates that seniors will see an average savings of $1,320 from the senior tax deduction.

My concern is that Independence Analysis noted that in 2024, the Biden IRS wasted more than $39 million just to keep 34 legacy systems on life support. Under President Trump, the IRS cut roughly $2 billion from his 2025 IT budget without operational disruptions, signaling just how bloated the prior spending had become.

I remain committed to taxpayer-focused modernization and ensuring that middle-class families and workers receive meaningful, measurable tax relief.

You may click HERE or on the image below to watch my full remarks.

.This past week I introduced a resolution that recognizes the visionary leadership of former Wichita Police Chief Richard LaMunyon and the meaningful global impact of the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for Special Olympics.

In 1979, Chief Richard LaMunyon was inspired by a heartfelt encounter with a Special Olympics athlete to champion the cause. Determined to remove financial barriers for participants, Chief LaMunyon and his officers launched the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) in 1981. After showcasing the program’s powerful impact on athletes to Special Olympics founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver, LaMunyon received her blessing to take the initiative globally. Today, LETR stands as the largest grassroots movement for the Special Olympics, strengthening community and providing lasting stability for athletes everywhere. The movement started with a modest $300 raised during the first run in Wichita and has now raised more than $1.1 billion to support those with intellectual disabilities worldwide.

In addition to this resolution, I wrote a letter to President Trump recommending that he award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Chief Richard LaMunyon of Wichita for his visionary leadership and remarkable contributions to individuals with intellectual disabilities through the founding of the LETR for Special Olympics.

You may click HERE to read the full resolution.

.Every year, high school students in the 4th District can submit their artwork for consideration in the Congressional Art Competition! I encourage all high school students in our district to enter and be part of this fun and unique art event.

I’m looking forward to seeing the work that will represent the Sunflower State in the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. The deadline to submit artwork is Tuesday, March 31, 2026. You can apply at estes.house.gov/art.