Van Orden Praises Youth at Patriot Day Event, Decries Federal Spending on X

Lead: U.S. Rep. Derrick Van Orden attended a Patriot Day youth commemoration in La Crosse this morning, lauding young volunteers, and later decried federal expenditures on social media, declaring “Zero federal dollars.”

Nut Graf: The Wisconsin Republican combined an in-district appearance marking the 24th anniversary of Sept. 11 with a Twitter salvo against Washington spending, underscoring his commitment to local engagement and fiscal conservatism.

Veteran lawmaker honors Patriot Day volunteers

Rep. Van Orden joined students and community members at La Crosse’s Riverside Park at 9 AM for a moment of silence and reading of victims’ names. He praised the students’ dedication and their tribute to first responders.

» “I am so proud of you, and the young people together today for honoring our heroes,” Van Orden posted at 3:35 AM on X, following the event.

Social media attack on federal cost

Shortly after, the congressman shifted tone online. In a retweet of political commentator Steve Guest, he added: “Zero federal dollars,” criticizing what he called unchecked spending by the Biden administration.

Emphasis on local impact, limited government

Van Orden’s dual approach-highlighting grassroots activities while blasting federal outlays-reflects his broader strategy of combining community presence with national messaging on fiscal restraint.

• He has repeatedly touted Wisconsin’s self-sufficiency and urged state and local solutions over federal programs.
• Constituents have applauded his visibility at district events but remain divided over his combative social-media style.

What’s next

Van Orden plans town-hall meetings in Eau Claire next week to discuss infrastructure priorities and budget concerns. He is also expected to introduce legislation aimed at curbing what he terms “earmark excess” in upcoming appropriations bills.