This is "Arkies in the Beltway" for the week of Sept. 29, 2024. I'm Alex Thomas, Washington Correspondent for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, with your look at the Arkansans influencing the national political discussions.

The "Man in Black" is now in bronze.

Arkansans joined congressional leaders, Arkansas lawmakers and members of Johnny Cash's family on Capitol Hill last Tuesday for a ceremony unveiling a statue of the Arkansas native on Capitol Hill.

Cash is the first musician to be recognized with a sculpture in the National Statuary Hall collection.

The ceremony completes a multi-year effort to install new statues of Arkansans at the U.S. Capitol; officials unveiled a sculpture honoring civil rights leader Daisy Bates in May.

STORY: Musician, Arkansas legend Johnny Cash recognized with U.S. Capitol statue

The Senate and House of Representatives have started their October recess.

Members of both chambers left Capitol Hill last week after passing a continuing resolution funding the federal government through Dec. 20.

When lawmakers return to Washington, D.C., on Nov. 12, they will have five weeks of legislative business to complete any lingering work before the new Congress begins its first legislative session in January.

STORY: Arkansas’ federal lawmakers weigh in on temporary government funding, preview post-election budget fight

Thank you for listening to this week's "Arkies in the Beltway!" Make sure to stay up to date with all news involving Arkansas at arkansasonline.com. You can track what's happening in the nation's capital by following me on social media; my handle across all platforms is @AlexHouseThomas.