Ezell, Mike RSS Articles

Ezell Celebrates Christening of Future USS George M. Neal at Ingalls Shipbuilding

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Last weekend, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) joined U.S. Navy leaders, HII executives, the Neal family, and shipbuilders at Ingalls Shipbuilding on Saturday to celebrate the christening of the future USS George M. Neal (DDG 131), the fourth Flight III Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer to be built at Ingalls.

The future USS George M. Neal is named in honor of Aviation Machinist's Mate Third Class George M. Neal, a Korean War veteran and recipient of the Navy Cross. Neal displayed extraordinary courage during a 1951 rescue mission after surviving a helicopter crash behind enemy lines, evading capture for nine days before becoming a prisoner of war. He was released in 1952 after enduring more than a year in captivity.

“The christening of the future USS George M. Neal is a proud moment for Mississippi and our nation,” Ezell said. “George M. Neal’s courage, sacrifice, and service represent the very best of America, and it is fitting that this warship will carry his legacy for generations to come. I’m grateful to the hardworking men and women of Ingalls Shipbuilding whose craftsmanship strengthens our Navy, supports our Gulf Coast economy, and helps keep our nation safe.”

“The future USS George M. Neal honors a legacy of extraordinary courage and sacrifice,” Under-Secretary of the Navy William Toti said. “As we christen this ship, we mark another step toward building the Navy our nation needs. Flight III destroyers are critical to our nation’s security, and we are proud to accept each one built by the skilled workforce at Ingalls."

“As a company, HII does a lot of amazing things, but only people — human beings — build ships. They build ships with their hands, their minds and toughness. The people of Ingalls Shipbuilding are among the finest craftsmen and craftswomen on the face of the Earth,” Kastner said. “When she is delivered, DDG 131 will be the most powerful surface combatant in the world. She will be ready. She’ll be ready because the United States of America makes a conscious choice, generation after generation for now 250 years, to invest in U.S. Navy ships, built by Americans, in America.”

“On behalf of my family, I express my deepest gratitude to the United States Navy, to the incredible honor, for this magnificent destroyer after my father, George Milton Neal,” Gray said. “We are forever grateful that his life of service, sacrifice and courage will be remembered through a ship that will one day defend our nation and carry his legacy throughout the world.”

The traditional christening ceremony featured remarks from senior Navy officials, HII leadership, and the ship's sponsor, Kelley Neal Gray, daughter of the ship's namesake, who performed the ceremonial bottle-breaking against the ship's bow.

As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, Rep. Ezell emphasized the importance of Mississippi's shipbuilding industry to both the nation's defense and the Gulf Coast economy.

DDG 131 is one of several Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyers currently under construction at Ingalls Shipbuilding. These next-generation warships feature the advanced AN/SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar and the Aegis Baseline 10 Combat System, significantly enhancing the Navy's ability to counter evolving threats and maintain maritime dominance.

Ingalls Shipbuilding has delivered 36 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers to the U.S. Navy and continues to play a critical role in building the future fleet that protects America's interests around the world.

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Ezell Announces More Than $27 Million in Federal BUILD Grants for Mississippi's Fourth District

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) announced that more than $27 million in Federal Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grants have been awarded to two critical infrastructure projects in Mississippi's Fourth Congressional District.

The grants include $22.1 million for the Mississippi Department of Transportation to expand truck parking and improve freight technology along the Interstate 10 corridor in Hancock County, as well as $5 million for the City of D'Iberville to improve the Mallett Road Multimodal Corridor in Harrison County.

"These investments are a major win for South Mississippi and will strengthen our transportation infrastructure, improve public safety, and support continued economic growth across the Fourth District," Ezell said. "As a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I understand the importance of keeping goods moving efficiently through our ports, highways, and freight corridors. These projects will help reduce congestion, improve safety for commercial drivers and the traveling public, and ensure our communities are well-positioned for future growth."

The $22.1 million BUILD grant awarded to the Mississippi Department of Transportation will fund the Mississippi I-10 Freight Corridor TPAS and Truck Parking Expansion project at the Hancock County Welcome Center. The project will increase truck parking capacity from 20 spaces to approximately 74 while deploying advanced Truck Parking Availability System (TPAS) technology, dynamic parking availability signs, and fiber-optic infrastructure to improve freight movement and driver safety along one of the Gulf Coast's busiest transportation corridors.

The $5 million BUILD grant awarded to the City of D'Iberville will support the Mallett Road Multimodal Corridor Improvements project. The project includes widening Mallett Road, improving intersections, enhancing traffic flow, upgrading utilities and traffic signals, constructing new turn lanes, and adding a six-foot sidewalk to improve mobility and safety for both motorists and pedestrians.

"Mississippi's Gulf Coast continues to experience tremendous growth, and these investments will help ensure our infrastructure keeps pace with that progress," Ezell continued. "I appreciate the work of the Mississippi Department of Transportation, the City of D'Iberville, and our local leaders who helped make these projects possible. I will continue working to secure federal resources that improve the quality of life for our communities while strengthening Mississippi's economy."

The BUILD Grant Program supports investments in surface transportation infrastructure that improve safety, mobility, economic competitiveness, and quality of life in communities across the country.

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Ezell Honors Mississippi Students Accepted to U.S. Military Service Academies

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (R-MS4) announced that 7 students from Mississippi’s Fourth Congressional District have accepted their appointments to one of the U.S. Military Service Academies. The students were nominated by Ezell and have received offers of appointment for the Class of 2030 at their respective academies.

“It was a privilege to nominate these outstanding students from Mississippi’s Fourth District to attend our nation’s prestigious U.S. Service Academies,” Ezell said. “This year’s applicant pool was exceptionally competitive, reflecting the talent, character, and commitment of young people across Mississippi. I am proud to have played a small role in helping these students pursue their dreams of serving our country. As they begin this next chapter, I have no doubt they will represent Mississippi with honor and distinction, and I wish each of them continued success in the years ahead.”

The following students received appointments and will start their collegiate careers very soon:

U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado

Peton Broom

Eli Hodges

Kooper Kinsey

Joshua Mayhue

U.S. Military Academy, West Point, New York

Brian Skrmetti

U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland

Morgan Ann McWilliams

John Pierre Haydel

Ezell, Rutherford Introduce Resolution Supporting Law Enforcement During National Police Week

Tue, 12 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressmen Mike Ezell (MS-04) and John Rutherford (FL-05), both former sheriffs and career law enforcement officers, introduced a concurrent resolution expressing strong support for America’s law enforcement professionals during National Police Week.

The resolution honors the more than 840,000 law enforcement officers who serve communities across the country and recognizes the sacrifices made by officers and their families. It also calls for increased resources, stronger protections, and expanded mental health support for those who wear the badge.

“In recent years, we’ve seen a rise in threats against law enforcement and a strain on departments across the country. We must ensure our officers are equipped, trained, and supported so they can continue protecting the American people," Ezell said. "As a former sheriff, I understand the sacrifices that come with wearing the badge. Law enforcement officers across this country continue to step up and serve, even in increasingly challenging and dangerous environments. This resolution is about making sure they know we have their backs and are committed to supporting them.”

“As a lifelong law enforcement officer and former sheriff, I know firsthand the dangers our officers face every day they put on their badges, say goodbye to their families, and stand between our communities they’ve vowed to protect and those they aim to hurt them,” Rutherford said. “Sadly, anti-police rhetoric continues to grow nationwide, putting our officers in even more danger. This National Police Week, I stand strongly with our men and women in blue and thank them for their dedication to protecting and serving our communities. We must protect those who protect us.”

The resolution highlights the critical role law enforcement has played in recent reductions in violent crime, while also addressing the growing challenges officers face, including increased assaults, staffing shortages, and the mental toll of the job.

Key provisions of the resolution:

Honors fallen officers and their families, with more than 24,000 names memorialized nationwide
Calls for increased staffing, improved training, and modern equipment
Supports stronger penalties for crimes committed against law enforcement
Emphasizes the need for expanded mental health resources for officers
Urges all levels of government to fully support law enforcement professionals

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Ezell Honors Student Artists at 2026 Congressional Art Competition Reception

Wed, 06 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) recognized the outstanding artistic talent of students from across Mississippi’s Fourth District during this year’s Congressional Art Competition Reception, celebrating the creativity and hard work of local high school students.

The annual competition provides students with an opportunity to showcase their artistic abilities, with the first-place winner’s artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year.

“Mississippi is home to incredible talent, and this year’s competition once again proved that,” Ezell said. “It was an honor to recognize these students and celebrate their creativity, dedication, and hard work. Their artwork reflects not only their talent but also the unique perspectives and stories of our communities. I’m grateful to every student who submitted their work and to the families and educators who help foster that creativity. Investing in the arts is an investment in the next generation, and I look forward to seeing what these talented students accomplish in the future.”

The 2026 Congressional Art Competition winners are:

1st Place: Zoey Margrave, Petal High School
2nd Place: Alicia Chavez, Petal High School
3rd Place: Kendyll King, Ocean Springs High School

Background:
Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school art competition to recognize the artistic talents of the nation’s youth. The Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 and has had more than 650,000 high school students participate in the competition.

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Ezell Applauds Federal Grant Award to Port of Gulfport to Strengthen Infrastructure and Supply Chains

Fri, 01 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) announced that the Mississippi State Port Authority at Gulfport has been awarded $11.25 million in funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) to support critical infrastructure improvements at the Port of Gulfport.

The funding will support the Gulfport Strategic Seaport Infrastructure Improvement Project, a key initiative aimed at enhancing the Port’s ability to efficiently move both commercial and military cargo.

“This is a major win for Mississippi and for our nation’s supply chain,” Ezell said. “The Port of Gulfport plays a vital role in supporting our economy and our national defense. This investment will strengthen its capabilities, improve efficiency, and ensure it remains a critical asset for years to come. I was proud to support this application and advocate for these resources. This investment will deliver long-term benefits for our military, our businesses, and our local communities.”

“Securing this award required strong partnership at every level,” Jon Nass, CEO and executive director of the Port of Gulfport said. “We are grateful to Congressman Ezell for his tireless advocacy on behalf of the Port in Washington to advance the Port’s growth.”

The project includes significant rail improvements on the West Pier to expand capacity and increase operational efficiency, as well as the development of a new east-west rail connection to reduce congestion along U.S. 90. In addition, the Port will receive upgraded cargo handling equipment and infrastructure enhancements designed to improve resilience and reliability.

As one of the nation’s designated Strategic Seaports, the Port of Gulfport is essential to both military readiness and commercial operations along the Gulf Coast. The improvements funded through this grant will help reduce freight bottlenecks, improve public safety, and enhance the overall efficiency of the region’s transportation network.

The project is also expected to leverage significant private investment, further amplifying its economic impact and reinforcing the Port’s role as a key driver of growth in Mississippi’s Fourth District.

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Ezell Applauds Navy Investment in Ingalls Shipbuilding to Advance Next-Generation Frigate Program

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) welcomed the U.S. Navy’s announcement of a $283 million contract award to HII’s Ingalls Shipbuilding Division in Pascagoula, Mississippi, to support the development of the Navy’s next-generation guided missile frigate program.

The contract will fund long-lead time material procurement, continued design adaptation work from the U.S. Coast Guard’s Legend-class National Security Cutter to the Navy’s FF(X) platform, and initial pre-construction activities for the first ship.

“This is a major win for Mississippi and for our nation’s maritime strength,” Ezell said. “Ingalls Shipbuilding has long been a cornerstone of our shipbuilding industrial base, and this investment reinforces its critical role in delivering the next generation of naval capability. It also means good-paying jobs and continued economic growth for our region. Ensuring our Navy has the ships it needs to meet evolving threats starts with a strong industrial base. This program will not only strengthen our national defense, but it will also expand shipbuilding capacity across the country through a competitive, distributed approach.”

The award represents a key step in accelerating the Navy’s frigate program, with plans to move forward with full construction of the first two ships later this year, pending congressional authorization and appropriations.

The Navy has indicated it intends to transition to a competitive procurement process for future frigate orders, leveraging Ingalls’ leadership as a “lead yard” to deliver a build-ready design and support production across the broader industrial base.

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Ezell, Carter, Higgins, Figures Introduce Bipartisan Offshore Parity Act to Expand Gulf State Boundaries

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Representatives Mike Ezell (MS-04), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02), Clay Higgins (LA-03), and Shomari Figures (AL-02) introduced the Offshore Parity Act, bipartisan legislation to establish equal offshore boundaries for Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama—bringing them in line with Texas and Florida.

Under current law, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama have jurisdiction over three nautical miles offshore, while Texas and Florida maintain nine nautical miles. The Offshore Parity Act would extend the boundaries of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama to nine nautical miles, providing greater access to energy and marine resources and increasing state-level control.

“For too long, Mississippi and our Gulf Coast neighbors have operated under an outdated and unequal system,” Ezell said. “This bill is about fairness. Expanding our offshore boundaries will strengthen our economy, support energy production, and give our state the same opportunities already afforded to Texas and Florida.”

“This is a critical step toward equality, ensuring that Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama have the same authority over their waters as Texas and Florida,” said Carter. “This bill will empower us to manage our energy resources, protect our coastal communities, and strengthen our fisheries—securing economic benefits for our states.”

“This bill ensures that states are on equal footing regarding offshore boundaries," Higgins said. "The expansion from three to nine miles of state waters would provide Louisiana with greater control and economic benefit from its offshore resources. My office will continue to advocate for our coastal communities and industries."

"There's no reason Alabama should have less access and control of our shores than Texas and Florida have over theirs," Figures said. "This bipartisan bill levels the playing field by making a commonsense update that ensures all gulf states have equal offshore boundaries."

The Offshore Parity Act proposes amendments to the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act and the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act to reflect the expanded boundaries and align fisheries and resource management accordingly.

This legislation builds on prior efforts introduced in the previous Congress and continues longstanding advocacy from Gulf Coast states seeking equal treatment under federal law. The current disparity dates back to the Submerged Lands Act of 1953, which granted Texas and Florida expanded offshore boundaries while limiting Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama to three nautical miles.

By establishing parity, the bill is expected to enhance economic development, increase state revenues, and provide greater local control over coastal resources.

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Ezell Joins Bipartisan Effort to Address Rising Homeowner Insurance Costs

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congressmen Mike Ezell (MS-04), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Gabe Evans (CO-08), and Troy A. Carter Sr. (LA-02) introduced the bipartisan Commission on Natural Disaster Risk Management and Insurance Act, a bill to create a nonpartisan commission to study natural disaster insurance affordability and report policy recommendations to Congress within two years.

As economic losses from natural disasters have increased, homeowners’ and business insurance costs have risen. Meanwhile, availability has declined, leading to a growing insurance coverage gap.

“As communities like those along the Gulf Coast know all too well, natural disasters don’t just threaten lives — they threaten livelihoods,” said Ezell. “Families and small businesses are facing rising insurance costs and fewer coverage options, creating real financial uncertainty. This bipartisan commission will help us take a closer look at the challenges in our insurance markets and identify practical solutions to ensure Americans can access affordable, reliable coverage when they need it most.”

“As extreme weather drives insurance costs higher and pushes coverage out of reach for too many families and small businesses, the bipartisan Commission on Natural Disaster Risk Management and Insurance Act will give Congress the clear roadmap we need to strengthen access to affordable, reliable insurance,” Carbajal said. “The increasing frequency of billion-dollar natural disasters demands that we proactively confront the growing insurance coverage gaps, and this bipartisan effort is an important step toward doing exactly that.”

“Across Colorado, homeowners are facing rising insurance prices as providers are driven out of the state and forced to pull back coverage — leaving behind thousands of families in high-risk natural disasters areas searching for new plans. I'm proud to co-lead this bipartisan effort to combat the surge in expensive policies and help protect access to affordable, reliable insurance that Coloradans and Americans deserve,” Evans said.

“Louisiana families and businesses are facing a crisis of rising homeowners and flood insurance premiums, worsening our housing affordability issues. We've seen premiums skyrocket, forcing families to make impossible choices between protecting their homes and paying for groceries, healthcare, or their children's education. This expert commission will provide Congress with data and recommendations needed to tackle this emergency so that generations of Louisianians can afford to work and live in the place we proudly call home,” Carter said.

Read the full text of the legislation here.

The Senate Joint Economic Committee reported that roughly 70% of Americans stated that their community experienced an extreme weather event in 2023. Between 2019 and 2023, the average annual cost of billion-dollar disasters in the United States was $120.6 billion, more than double the 44-year inflation-adjusted annual average.

For many Americans whose home or small business is their largest financial asset, growing insurance gaps and reduced coverage pose a vital risk to their financial health. Underinsurance also poses a risk to local governments whose tax bases rely largely on property values.

The Commission on Natural Disaster Risk Management and Insurance Act would represent a step toward protecting homeowners, small businesses, and local governments from the growing insurance gaps.

In developing the report, the commission would be directed to:

Assess the current state of natural disaster insurance markets in the U.S.

Identify gaps in coverage and affordability challenges, especially for vulnerable populations and high-risk areas.

Evaluate the role of the federal government to improve insurance access and reduce costs.

The commission’s membership would include representatives from:

Insurance industry

State insurance regulators

Emergency management experts

Academic Institutions and researchers in climate and risk management

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PASSED BY HOUSE: Ezell Bill Honoring Fallen Deputy Jeremy Malone

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) announced that his legislation to designate the United States Postal Service facility located at 825 Highway 198 in Beaumont, Mississippi, as the Jeremy Malone Post Office passed the U.S. House of Representatives.

The bill honors the life and legacy of George County Deputy Sheriff Jeremy Malone, who was tragically killed in the line of duty on January 4, 2024, during a traffic stop in the Rocky Creek community. Deputy Malone dedicated 21 years to law enforcement across South Mississippi and was widely respected for his courage, professionalism, and commitment to serving others.

“Deputy Jeremy Malone gave his life protecting the people of South Mississippi,” Ezell said. “As a former law enforcement officer, I understand the sacrifices that come with wearing the badge. Renaming this post office in his honor ensures that his service, his character, and his dedication to his community will never be forgotten.

I urge our Mississippi Senators to take up and pass this bill quickly so we can ensure Deputy Malone’s legacy is permanently honored. This designation is a lasting tribute to a man who embodied service before self. It will serve as a daily reminder of the courage of our law enforcement officers and the sacrifices made by them and their families.”

In addition to his service in uniform, Deputy Malone was deeply involved in his community, volunteering with programs like Santa Wears a Badge and the Blue Line Toy Drive to support local families and children in need.

Deputy Malone is survived by his wife, Hilary, and their three daughters, Abbie, Alivia, and Brooklyn.

The legislation now heads to the U.S. Senate for consideration.

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