- Record: House Floor
- Section type: Recognition
- Chamber: House
- Date: March 25, 2026
- Congress: 119th Congress
- Why this source matters: This section came from the House floor portion of the record.
Mr. Mann of Kansas was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.)
Mr. MANN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Chief Judge Eric F. Melgren of the United States District Court for the District of Kansas and to recognize his distinguished service on the Federal bench.
portrait and celebrated his lasting legacy after nearly two decades of active judicial service. As of September 1, 2025, Judge Melgren has assumed senior status, which he will continue to serve with the same dedication and commitment that have defined his entire career.
Judge Melgren's story is a Kansas story. Raised on a cattle and wheat farm in southwest Kansas, he is a first-generation college graduate who went on to lead as student body president of Wichita State University and later earned his law degree from Washburn University.
for the district of Kansas and, ultimately, to his appointment to the Federal bench by President George W. Bush, his career reflects a life rooted in hard work, service, and leadership.
Melgren has upheld the rule of law with integrity and a deep respect for the Constitution. He has also given back to his community, leading organizations like United Way of the Plains and Leadership Wichita, and remaining closely connected to the people and institutions that helped to shape him.
- with humility, lead with principle, and stay grounded in their roots.
- Judge Melgren embodies those values.
- wish him the very best as he continues his hard work on the bench.
Honoring Michael Hinton
Mr. MANN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a proud Kansan whose work honors the legacy of American agriculture and the generations who built it.
history and heritage of rural America through antique tractors, but his work goes far beyond restoring old equipment. It is about telling the story of the men and women who have worked the land, provided for their families, and helped feed the world.
launch of talkingtractors.com, Michael has built a platform that brings agricultural history to life and connects generations through a shared appreciation for hard work, innovation, and community. His efforts have earned recognition across Kansas and the Nation.
of Fame, joining the ranks of some of the most influential figures in our Nation's agricultural history, from George Washington to John Deere. He is now one of only a handful of Kansans to receive this distinguished honor.
of life. It is our legacy. Leaders like Michael Hinton remind us that preserving that legacy matters while we continue to build its future.
- congratulate him on his well-deserved recognition.