Grothman Statement on U.S. Operation to Remove Nicolás Maduro and Combat Narco-Terrorism

Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-WI) released the following statement after U.S. forces carried out a targeted operation to remove Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro, marking a significant success in the fight against international drug trafficking and narco-terrorism linked to the Maduro regime:

“This operation is a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when the United States takes the threat of narco-terrorism seriously,” said Congressman Grothman. “It is nothing short of a miracle that no U.S. troops were killed, and we owe an enormous debt of gratitude to the brave men and women who carried out this mission with precision and professionalism.

“For far too long, American presidents have stood by while drug cartels and hostile regimes flooded our country with deadly narcotics. I have always wondered why leaders allowed so many Americans to die from drug overdoses each year without taking meaningful action to stop it.

“The human cost is staggering. Every year, more Americans die from drug overdoses than were killed during the entire Vietnam War - nearly twice as many. That level of loss is unacceptable, and ignoring it is no longer an option.

“Finally, we have a president who cares about the overdose crisis devastating families and communities across this country and is willing to confront the source of the problem. President Trump’s actions send a clear message that the United States will no longer tolerate regimes that profit from poisoning our people.

“It has been exhilarating to see the outpouring of support for President Trump’s leadership from Venezuelans around the world. Their response shows that standing up to corruption, tyranny, and drug trafficking matters - not only for the safety of Americans, but for freedom-loving people everywhere.”

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Grothman Supports Coalition of Family Groups on Marriage Penalty Reforms

Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-WI) voiced strong support for a coalition of family and faith-based organizations urging House leadership to address marriage penalties embedded in federal welfare programs as part of a future budget reconciliation package.

Grothman has long led efforts in Congress to eliminate policies that penalize marriage and undermine family stability. Grothman has repeatedly warned that federal welfare rules discourage marriage, weaken families, and trap parents and children in cycles of dependency - in some cases costing families tens of thousands of dollars simply for choosing to marry.

Ending marriage penalties is not a partisan topic. Congressman Grothman has worked across the aisle on this issue, introducing bipartisan legislation, the Student Loan Marriage Penalty Elimination Act, recognizing that the federal government should not punish Americans for forming stable families.

“Marriage penalties are one of the most damaging and misguided features of the federal welfare system,” said Rep. Glenn Grothman. “For decades, Washington has punished families for getting married, discouraging responsibility and trapping parents and children in long-term dependency. This apparently commonsense proposal to stop punishing marriage will not be without its enemies.

“And it is not just about economics: children in single-parent or unstable homes are more than twice as likely to be abused or neglected[1], often by unrelated adult partners in the household. Encouraging strong, stable families can help protect children and prevent these types of domestic tragedies.

“We cannot fully say that America is great again while we still have these marriage penalties in place. Strong families lead to stronger communities and a stronger nation, and it’s time our policies reflected that. I’ve been pushing to fix these inequities for years, and now Congress has a real opportunity to end these penalties, reward families, and stop federal policies that undermine marriage.”

Key Excerpts from the Coalition Letter

“Marriage is at the heart of strong families. Decades of research show that children do better when raised in married households, and that strong families reduce poverty, improve economic outcomes, and foster the social stability necessary for a thriving nation. Yet too many federal means-tested programs actively discourage marriage, penalizing the very values our country should be encouraging. In certain cases, these penalties can amount to as much as $27,727, making marriage financially irrational for many families.”

“Polling shows that this issue has broad support across the country as 82 percent of Americans agree the welfare system should not penalize parents for marrying. Moreover, marriage penalties drive up long-term welfare costs by discouraging self-sufficiency and trapping families in dependency, undermining both fiscal responsibility and family stability.”

The letter was led by American Principles Project and signed by Heritage Action, Capability Consulting, Center for Urban Renewal and Education (CURE), Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee, Advancing American Freedom, Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of Southern Baptist Convention, AdvanceUSA, Coalition for Jewish Values, Faith and Liberty in the Nation’s Capital, Eagle Forum, Family Policy Alliance, Students for Life Action, Faith and Freedom Coalition, Independent Women’s Forum, Family Watch International, Brad Wilcox, and Jamie Bryan Hall.

Grothman is continuing his work to eliminate marriage penalties. On January 13, 2026, he will host a panel discussion titled, ‘Marriage and the Government: How Public Policy Undermines Marriage’. Grothman will be joined by the Republican Study Committee, the Values Action Taskforce Chairman Congressman Robert Aderholt, the Heritage Foundation’s Robert Rector, the American Principals Project, and other groups to discuss possible solutions to eliminate these penalties, their negative effects on society, and how to restore the American Family. More information will be forthcoming.

[1] https://thelifeofasinglemom.com/single-mom-statistics-the-truth-about-single-moms/#:~:text=Bureau%2C%202018).-,Abuse,to%20use%20drugs%20or%20alcohol

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U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah) proudly serves the people of Wisconsin’s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives


CONGRESSMAN JOHNSON'S STATEMENT ON ICE KILLING IN MINNEAPOLIS

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Johnson released the following statement:

"The video shows an armed, masked agent violating law enforcement policy by improperly using deadly force in repeatedly firing his gun into a moving vehicle. The result: a woman executed for at most violating a traffic ordinance. This is the unlawful killing of a human being, and like Derek Chauvin this officer should be arrested and charged with murder."

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Congressman Pat Harrigan Introduces Families First Housing Act to Put Families Ahead of Wall Street Investors

Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) introduced the Families First Housing Act, legislation aimed at ensuring American families have the first opportunity to purchase federally backed foreclosed homes before institutional investors and hedge funds move in.

The legislation reflects months of work focused on housing affordability and the growing role of large investors in the single-family housing market. Federal data shows that as recently as 2011, no investor owned 1,000 or more single-family rental homes nationwide. By 2015, institutional investors collectively owned an estimated 170,000 to 300,000 homes, a shift that accelerated during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. In many fast-growing Sunbelt markets, institutional buyers now account for a significant share of single-family home purchases, tightening supply for families. Those concerns gained renewed attention today when President Trump publicly raised alarms about institutional buyers distorting housing markets, underscoring the urgency of reforms already underway.

“Homeownership is slipping out of reach for a lot of Americans, especially young families,” said Congressman Harrigan. “Only about 30 percent of Americans under 35 own a home today, roughly half the rate of a generation ago. That gap didn’t appear overnight, and it’s not because people stopped working hard. More and more, families are getting outbid by large financial firms buying up single-family homes at scale. In Charlotte, roughly 18 percent of single-family homes and 13 percent of homes in Raleigh were investor-owned as of 2022, a clear example of how quickly institutional buying is reshaping local housing markets, with those numbers continuing to rise. People live in homes, not corporations, and institutional investors shouldn’t be locking families out. The Families First Act, which I introduced with Josh Riley, helps ensure federally backed homes go to families first, not Wall Street.”

The Families First Housing Act creates a standardized 180-day “first look” period that gives families, nonprofits, local governments, and community land trusts exclusive access to eligible single-family homes owned, foreclosed upon, or under disposition by federal housing entities before institutional investors can purchase them.

The bill also strengthens transparency and accountability by requiring public reporting on home sales, pricing methods, and violations, and authorizes penalties for employees who unlawfully bypass first-look protections.

The Families First Housing Act is an important step toward restoring balance in the housing market, but it is not the end of the work. Congressman Harrigan is calling on his colleagues to build on this framework, work across party lines, and pursue additional reforms that expand access to homeownership and put families back at the center of the housing market.


Comisionado Residente asegura $1.7 millones para San Juan, Cabo Rojo y Juana Díaz

WASHINGTON, DC - El Comisionado Residente de Puerto Rico, Pablo José Hernández anunció asignaciones federales para los municipios de San Juan, Juana Díaz y Cabo Rojo, como parte del programa de Community Project Funding (CPF) del Congreso de los Estados Unidos.

“Estas tres asignaciones especiales son producto de nuestro esfuerzo directo, en conjunto con entidades sin fines de lucro y municipios rojos y azules, a través del programa de Community Project Funding” dijo el Comisionado Residente.

El programa de Community Project Funding permite a los miembros del Congreso solicitar fondos federales para proyectos propuestos por municipios y organizaciones sin fines de lucro en sus distritos. Cada solicitud debe cumplir con requisitos estrictos de elegibilidad, transparencia, justificación comunitaria y viabilidad de ejecución, y es evaluada como parte del proceso anual de asignaciones del Congreso. A través de este mecanismo, el Comisionado Residente canaliza prioridades locales hacia el proceso federal de asignaciones, asegurando que Puerto Rico compita en igualdad de condiciones por recursos federales.

Los proyectos incluidos son:

$1.031 millones para Vimenti, organización sin fines de lucro en San Juan, para ampliar el acceso de estudiantes a educación en ciencia, tecnología, ingeniería y matemáticas a través de su Next Generation STEM Learning Lab Accelerator.

$514,000 para el Municipio de Juana Díaz para implementar el programa Virtual Security 360, modernizando la prevención del crimen mediante tecnología avanzada.

$112,000 para el Municipio de Cabo Rojo para la compra de vehículos policiales que reduzcan tiempos de respuesta y refuercen la presencia de seguridad en comunidades costeras.

A finales del 2025, el Comisionado Residente además aseguró $80,000 para el Municipio de Hatillo para fortalecer el centro de salud rural del municipio.


Comisionado Residente lidera esfuerzo junto a 25 congresistas para recompensar a pasajeros afectados tras cierre del espacio aéreo por operación militar en Venezuela.

WASHINGTON, DC — El Comisionado Residente de Puerto Rico, Pablo José Hernández, lideró a 25 miembros del Congreso en una carta dirigida al secretario del Departamento de Transportación de Estados Unidos, Sean Duffy, solicitando acción federal inmediata para brindar alivio económico a los pasajeros afectados por las restricciones temporales de vuelo impuestas por la Administración Federal de Aviación (FAA), tras acciones militares en Venezuela.

En la carta, el Comisionado Residente y sus colegas impulsaron al Departamento de Transportación a actuar con prontitud para garantizar que los pasajeros no sean obligados a asumir gastos de hospedaje, alimentos y transporte derivados de interrupciones aéreas dirigidas por el gobierno y fuera de su control.

“Exhortamos a la Administración a actuar con rapidez y a desplegar todos los recursos disponibles para apoyar a los pasajeros, de modo que no se vean obligados a asumir los costos financieros inesperados causados por estas interrupciones de vuelos ordenadas por el gobierno”, escribieron el Comisionado y los legisladores. (traducción del original en inglés). “Dado que estas interrupciones fueron consecuencia directa de acciones militares en Venezuela y no de las operaciones de las aerolíneas, corresponde a la Administración atender el daño económico impuesto a los pasajeros afectados.”

El Comisionado Residente Hernández estuvo acompañado por el miembro de mayor rango (Ranking Member) del Comité de Transportación e Infraestructura de la Cámara de Representantes, Rick Larsen (WA-02), y por el miembro de mayor rango del Subcomité de Aviación, Andre Carson (IN-07), junto a los representantes Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Luz Rivas (CA-29), Derek Tran (CA-45), Darren Soto (FL-09), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Sharice Davids (KS-03), Troy Carter (LA-02), Robert Menendez Jr. (NJ-08), Nellie Pou (NJ-09), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), George Latimer (NY-16), Johnny Olszewski (MD-02), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Eugene Vindman (VA-07) and Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10).

Las restricciones temporales de vuelo impuestas por la FAA entre el 3 de enero y la madrugada del 4 de enero, adoptadas por razones de seguridad, provocaron la cancelación de cientos de vuelos en el Caribe durante un periodo de alto volumen de viajes. Puerto Rico fue uno de los lugares más afectados, dejando a miles de pasajeros sin poder regresar a su destino y obligándolos a asumir gastos inesperados en hoteles, comida y transporte.

Aunque algunas aerolíneas eliminaron cargos por cambios y ayudaron a reprogramar vuelos, muchos pasajeros no pudieron conseguir un vuelo de regreso a tiempo. Algunos tuvieron que esperar hasta seis días para poder viajar, mientras que otros se quedaron sin hospedaje o sin reembolso por los gastos adicionales que tuvieron que pagar de su propio bolsillo. Según se ha informado, varias aerolíneas no cubrieron los costos de hotel, argumentando que las cancelaciones se debieron a una decisión del gobierno y no a fallas de las aerolíneas.

Ante la continuidad de estas interrupciones, la Oficina del Comisionado Residente se mantuvo en comunicación constante con las aerolíneas para recopilar información y mantener al público informado. Como parte de los esfuerzos para atender el atraso de pasajeros, American Airlines y Envoy Air operaron vuelos especiales el 5 de enero entre Anguila, las Islas Vírgenes Británicas y San Juan, además de añadir vuelos adicionales entre San Juan y Miami. Delta Air Linesañadió más de 2,600 asientos adicionales en rutas del Caribe. Southwest Airlines informó que cerca de 2,500 pasajeros fueron afectados y añadió 14 vuelos adicionales, mientras que United Airlines indicó que aproximadamente 11,000 pasajeros se vieron impactados y añadió 17 vuelos adicionales.

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Puerto Rico’s representative in Congress leads effort with 25 Lawmakers to Demand Relief for Passengers Hit by Venezuela-Linked Flight Disruptions

WASHINGTON, DC — The Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico, Pablo José Hernández, led 25 members in a letter to the U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, pushing for swift federal action to provide financial relief to passengers affected by temporary flight restrictions imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), following military action in Venezuela.

In a letter sent to U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, the Resident Commissioner and his colleagues called on the Department of Transportation to act swiftly to ensure passengers are not forced to absorb hotel, food, and transportation costs stemming from government-directed flight disruptions beyond their control.

“We urge the Administration to act expeditiously and deploy all available resources to support passengers so they are not left to absorb the unexpected financial costs resulting from these government-directed flight disruptions,” the lawmakers wrote. “Because these disruptions were the direct result of military action in Venezuela rather than airline operations, the Administration must address the financial harm imposed on affected passengers.”

Resident Commissioner Hernández was joined by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Rick Larsen (WA-02) and Aviation Subcommittee Ranking Member Andre Carson (IN-07), alongside Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Luz Rivas (CA-29), Derek Tran (CA-45), Darren Soto (FL-09), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Sharice Davids (KS-03), Troy Carter (LA-02), Robert Menendez Jr. (NJ-08), Nellie Pou (NJ-09), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), George Latimer (NY-16), Johnny Olszewski (MD-02), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Eugene Vindman (VA-07) and Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10).

The FAA’s temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) from January 3 through early January 4, implemented in the interest of public safety, triggered the cancellation of hundreds of flights across the Caribbean during a peak holiday travel period. Puerto Rico was among the most severely impacted, leaving thousands of passengers stranded, facing unexpected expenses for lodging, food, and transportation.

While some airlines issued change-fee waivers and assisted with rebooking, reports indicate that many passengers were unable to secure timely return flights, with some travelers waiting as long as six days. Others were left without hotel accommodations or reimbursement for mounting out-of-pocket expenses. Airlines have reportedly declined to cover lodging costs, citing the government-directed nature of the shutdown.

As disruptions continued, the Office of the Resident Commissioner remained in active communication with airlines to gather information and relay updates to the public. In response to the backlog, airlines deployed recovery measures: American Airlines and Envoy Air operated special inter-island flights on January 5 connecting Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands with San Juan and added additional service between San Juan and Miami. Delta Air Lines added more than 2,600 seats across its Caribbean network. Southwest Airlines reported nearly 2,500 affected customers and added 14 recovery flights, while United Airlines indicated nearly 11,000 passengers were impacted and added 17 additional flights.


Horsford: Housing Crisis Demands Immediate Action in Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Steven Horsford (NV-04) today responded to an announcement by President Trump that he would act to ban large institutional investors from buying more single-family homes.

“For months, I’ve been sounding the alarm about Wall Street’s stranglehold over the housing market in Southern Nevada. As Nevadans continue to struggle through a housing crisis of Wall Street’s making, it’s good to see the President finally acknowledging the problem. Concepts of a plan won’t cut it, and I have a bill ready to go — if the President is serious about protecting families, he should support it,” Rep. Steven Horsford said. “My Housing Oversight and Mitigation Exploitation (HOME) Act is the only ready-to-move solution to bring real oversight to the housing market, prevent institutional investors from manipulating prices, and hold corporate property owners accountable when they exploit families for profit.”

Horsford’s Housing Oversight and Mitigation Exploitation (HOME) Act would require needed oversight over the housing market to prevent institutional investors from manipulating it, and hold corporate property owners accountable for price manipulation. The bill followed a protracted listening campaign, including a housing-focused virtual town hall; a housing tour with the Neighborhood Housing Services of Southern Nevada; meetings with affordable housing leaders ahead of a state-level lobbying day; an Affordable Housing Roundtable and Affordable Housing Development Tour with the Nevada Housing Coalition; and an in-home meeting to hear the challenges a 25-year-old single mother of a five-year-old daughter faces keeping a roof overhead.

During the third quarter of 2024, the Las Vegas Valley saw the largest jump of home purchases by corporate investors in the entire nation, representing over $1 billion in transactions and a 27.9 percent increase in such purchases over the second quarter. A 2023 study by UNLV’s Lied Center for Real Estate found that roughly 15 percent of all homes in the Las Vegas valley were owned by out-of-state corporate investors, including 25 percent of all homes in North Las Vegas.

A recent report from the Guinn Center for Policy Priorities illustrates the stark reality Nevadans face in the housing market:

Median rent and housing prices have dramatically outpaced income growth in Nevada.

For renters, nearly 48 percent are classified as excessively burdened by housing costs – meaning at least 35 percent of their gross monthly income goes to keeping a roof over their heads.

For extremely low-income renters, there are only 14 units available for every 100 households who need one – the lowest in the nation by far.

And while income has gone up in some communities, the price of housing has grown by two-and-a-half times more than the growth of income.

More information about the HOME Act is available here.

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Huffman Joins Full California Congressional Delegation Push for Federal Disaster Funding One Year After Devastating Eaton and Palisades Fires

On one-year anniversary of LA fires, CA Delegation reaffirms bipartisan call to Trump for essential federal disaster recovery aid

Los Angeles, CA — On the one-year anniversary of the devastating Eaton and Palisades fires, Rep. Jared Huffman (D-Calif.-02) joined U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (both D-Calif.) and the Chairs of the Republican and Democratic Congressional Delegations — Representatives Ken Calvert (R-Calif.-41) and Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.-18) — and the entire bipartisan California Congressional delegation in urging President Trump to provide overdue federal disaster relief funding and resources to help Los Angeles County communities rebuild and recover.

Fueled by wind gusts of up to 100 miles per hour, the Los Angeles County fires last year burned more than 40,000 acres — an area over three times the size of Manhattan. The fires destroyed over 16,000 structures, forced tens of thousands of residents to evacuate, and claimed at least 30 lives.

Due to the catastrophic scale of the Palisades and Eaton Fires, the lawmakers emphasized the urgent need for additional federal disaster assistance, coordination, and funding. They pushed President Trump to continue supporting impacted areas and provide additional disaster relief, just as the federal government has done for other disaster-stricken communities across the country. Although the Administration worked with California state and local leaders to complete the fastest wildfire debris cleanup in U.S. history, President Trump has not yet approved California’s request for additional disaster relief necessary for long-term recovery.

The lawmakers highlighted California’s record cleanup with the help of the Army Corps of Engineers, clearing hazardous debris from more than 9,000 properties in under 30 days and removing over 2.5 million tons of ash, metal, concrete, and contaminated soil in the first nine months. They also expressed their appreciation for aid provided so far by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Small Business Administration to help residents and small businesses begin to recover.

“As the recovery process continues, additional federal support is needed, and our entire delegation looks forward to working cooperatively with your administration to ensure the communities of Southern California receive their fair share of federal disaster assistance,” wrote the bipartisan group of California lawmakers.

“Just as the federal government has come to the aid of communities impacted by wildfires across the western United States, tornadoes in the Midwest, ice storms in Texas, or hurricanes in the Southeast, we should once again support the recovery of the impacted families, businesses, and communities in Los Angeles County,” continued the lawmakers. “Therefore, as we mark the one-year anniversary of this tremendous disaster, we urge you to ensure Los Angeles County has the resources it needs to recover and rebuild.”

In addition to Huffman, Padilla, Schiff, Calvert, and Lofgren, the letter was also signed by Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.-11) and Representatives Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.-33), Nanette Barragán (D-Calif.-44), Ami Bera (D-Calif.-06), Julia Brownley (D-Calif.-26), Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.-24), Judy Chu (D-Calif.-28), Gil Cisneros (D-Calif.-31), Lou Correa (D-Calif.-46), Jim Costa (D-Calif.-21), Mark DeSaulnier (D-Calif.-10), Vince Fong (R-Calif.-20), Laura Friedman (D-Calif.-30), John Garamendi (D-Calif.-08), Robert Garcia (D-Calif.-42), Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.-34), Adam Gray (D-Calif.-13), Josh Harder (D-Calif.-09), Darrell Issa (R-Calif.-48), Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.-51), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.-37), Ro Khanna (D-Calif.-17), Kevin Kiley (R-Calif.-03), Young Kim (R-Calif.-40), Mike Levin (D-Calif.-49), Sam Liccardo (D-Calif.-16), Ted Lieu (D-Calif.-36), Doris Matsui (D-Calif.-07), Tom McClintock (R-Calif.-05), Dave Min (D-Calif.-47), Kevin Mullin (D-Calif.-15), Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.-23), Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.-19), Scott Peters (D-Calif.-50), Luz Rivas (D-Calif.-29), Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.-25), Linda Sánchez (D-Calif.-38), Lateefah Simon (D-Calif.-12), Brad Sherman (D-Calif.-32), Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.-14), Mark Takano (D-Calif.-39), Mike Thompson (D-Calif.-04), Norma Torres (D-Calif.-35), Derek Tran (D-Calif.-45), David Valadao (R-Calif.-22), Juan Vargas (D-Calif.-52), Maxine Waters (D-Calif.-43), and George Whitesides (D-Calif.-27).

Full text of the letter is available here and below:

Dear President Trump:

At the one-year anniversary of the devastating Palisades and Eaton Fires in Los Angeles County, we write to highlight the historic response, the ongoing recovery, and to urge continued and additional support. In the initial weeks after wildfires, thanks to the decisive action of your administration, the Army Corps of Engineers conducted hazardous debris cleanup that was concluded in record time – clearing more than 9,000 properties of hazardous materials in under 30 days. Large-scale structural debris removal followed—over 2.5 million tons of ash, metal, concrete, and contaminated soil were removed in the first nine months. The billions in aid provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the U.S. Small Business Administration have also been incredibly helpful in supporting residents and small businesses to get back on their feet. As the recovery process continues, additional federal support is needed, and our entire delegation looks forward to working cooperatively with your administration to ensure the communities of Southern California receive their fair share of federal disaster assistance.

Fueled by wind gusts of up to 100 miles per hour, the Palisades and Eaton fires burned over 40,000 acres, destroyed over 16,000 structures, forced tens of thousands of residents to evacuate, and killed more than two dozen people. These wildfires have caused widespread damage across Los Angeles County, including federal and state highways and roads, critical public infrastructure, homes, and buildings. Both state and city officials have pushed policies to cut red tape on permitting and rebuilding regulations to speed up reconstruction of homes and essential infrastructure. But the historic destruction caused by these wildfires requires continued federal funding and support. Just as the federal government has come to the aid of communities impacted by wildfires across the western United States, tornadoes in the Midwest, ice storms in Texas, or hurricanes in the Southeast, we should once again support the recovery of the impacted families, businesses, and communities in Los Angeles County. Therefore, as we mark the one-year anniversary of this tremendous disaster, we urge you to ensure Los Angeles County has the resources it needs to recover and rebuild.

Thank you for your consideration of this request.

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Ranking Member Huffman Statement on Trump’s Withdrawal from International Climate Agreements

Washington, D.C. – Today, House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-Calif.) released the following statement after President Trump signed a Presidential Memorandum withdrawing the United States from 66 international organizations, including from the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change:

“This is climate denial as foreign policy. The same ‘oil over all’ mentality driving regime change in Venezuela to plunder another country’s resources is what’s behind torching international climate agreements here at home. Today, the President delivered another win for his polluter buddies, ripping the United States out of the very foundation of international climate cooperation — the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change that was ratified by the Senate over 30 years ago.

“The UNFCCC isn’t some radical new treaty. It was signed by President George H.W. Bush and ratified with bipartisan support in 1992. Abandoning it doesn’t make America stronger; it makes us weaker, an international pariah, all while China, Europe, and the rest of the world move forward on clean energy without us.

“Withdrawing from these international clean energy and environmental programs will be remembered as one of the greatest acts of economic self-sabotage in American history. Our children and grandchildren will ask why we sacrificed good-paying jobs and the industries of tomorrow to protect the polluters of the past — and why we didn’t act when we had the chance.

“Americans are living through the consequences of climate change right now: record wildfires, catastrophic hurricanes, deadly heat waves. This is a betrayal of every community on the frontlines of climate disaster.

“House Democrats will continue fighting for American workers and families who deserve clean air, clean water, and a livable planet, not a president who sells out their future to billionaire polluters.”

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Huizenga Nominates 14 Students from Allegan, Gobles, Holland, Hudsonville, Kalamazoo, Mattawan, Portage, St. Joe, and Wayland to U.S. Service Academies

Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) announced the nomination of 14 students to U.S. Service Academies for the class of 2030. These students will be considered for appointment to one or more of our nation’s Service Academies, which include: the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, NY, the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD, the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, NY.

“It is an honor to put forward these outstanding students from Southwest Michigan for consideration to attend one of our nation’s prestigious Service Academies,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “Their pursuit of an appointment demonstrates discipline, purpose, and a deep sense of responsibility to something greater than themselves. I am confident these individuals possess the character and leadership necessary to serve with distinction and to proudly represent Southwest Michigan and the United States of America. Their commitment to excellence and their willingness to serve our nation is something we should all recognize and celebrate.”

Nominations are based on an interview with an academy advisory board that considers academic success, extracurricular accomplishments, and demonstrated leadership. Further information on requirements for nomination and the application process is available on Congressman Huizenga’s website.

A nomination does not guarantee admission to a Service Academy. Before an academy may offer an appointment, it must receive a nomination from an authorized nominating source, such as a Member of Congress. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a nomination.

Congressman Huizenga has nominated the following students for the Class of 2030.

United States Air Force Academy

Ashton Brown – Holland Christian High School

Ava Ulberg – Mattawan High School, Kalamazoo Valley Community College

Brooks Massing – Black River Public Schools, Western Michigan University

Charlotte Markoski – Wayland Union High School

Deacon Sidebotham – Wayland Union High School

Henry Freestone – Loy Norrix High School

Landon Thomas – Arizona State University (remote), St. Joseph, MI

United States Naval Academy

Ava Ulberg – Mattawan High School, Kalamazoo Valley Community College

Gavin McCain – Mattawan High School

Henry Freestone - Loy Norrix High School

United States Military Academy at West Point

Aiden Beam – Gobles High School

Ashton Brown - Holland Christian High School

Deacon Sidebotham - Wayland Union High School

Eliza DeLaet – Allegan High School

Henry Freestone - Loy Norrix High School

Jonah Weber – Portage Northern High School

Levi Wilcox – Hudsonville High School

Rowan Hagenbuch – Comstock High School, Western Michigan University

United States Merchant Marine Academy

Parker Josephs – De La Salle Collegiate High School


Rep. John James Re-introduces School Safety Legislative Package to Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative John James (MI-10) announced the introduction of three bills, each of which are bipartisan, to address the issue of school safety. This follows Rep. James’ introduction of a similar school safety legislative package in 2023.

Rep. James released the following statement after introducing these bills:

“My generation was still in school when the Columbine Massacre happened. I know what it’s like to walk into class with the fear that I may not walk out,” said James. “Now as the father of three school-aged boys, I pray every day that the Lord allows them to return home safe and sound. It’s insane that millions of parents have to make that prayer every day in America. It’s incensing that dozens of parents’ prayers have not been answered in a generation. Prayer is powerful but we must do more than pray. We must change policy too. The Second Amendment is not optional, and neither is keeping our kids safe from violence. We deserve an America that can protect itself from tyranny without leaving its children vulnerable to terrorism. Gun deaths are symptoms of cultural decay and hopelessness in America. Doing nothing to address those symptoms is unacceptable, which is why I’m proud to introduce this commonsense school safety package to the U.S. House of Representatives. We are tackling an area that seems to have the least number of solutions - school safety - by first addressing mental health and constitutional responsibility from both sides of the aisle with this package.”

The IMPROVE (Incentivize Motivated Parents with Responsible Options for Vital Education) Safety for Schools Act, co-led by Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur of Ohio, would create a tax credit of $300 to incentivize parents/guardians to purchase a gun safe or storage item.

Rep. Kaptur released the following statement in support of the IMPROVE Safety for Schools Act:

“The leading cause of death for children across America is gun violence — a scourge that has taken a terrible toll on families in Ohio, Michigan, and across our country. Today, we are introducing the bipartisan IMPROVE Safety for Schools Act to help make our children, families, schools, and communities safer,” said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). “Our bipartisan legislation expands firearm safety information available for parents, establishes a $300 non-refundable tax credit for firearm safety technologies including gun locks and gun safes, and expands access to information about gun safety through multiple avenues. I will work with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to enact this bipartisan common sense legislation to keep our communities and our children safe.”

The School Security is National Security Act, co-led by Rep. James’ West Point classmate Congressman Pat Ryan of New York, would require that the President include a plan for securing America’s schools in the administration’s National Security Strategy.

Rep. Ryan released the following statement regarding this legislation:

“No parent dropping their kids off at school should have to worry about their child's safety,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “I’m proud to join Congressman James on this crucial first step toward securing our schools and making sure that every child returns home safely at the end of each school day.”

Finally, the Kid PROOF Act, co-led by Congresswoman Angie Craig of Minnesota, would provide grants for health care providers to purchase lockboxes or safes to help families of children who may be at risk of suicide or overdose to store medications or other potentially dangerous items.

“One child lost to suicide or overdose is one too many,” said Rep. Angie Craig. “As a mother and a grandmother, I feel strongly that we should be doing everything in our power to keep at-risk youth safe, and that’s exactly what this legislation is about. The Kid PROOF Act takes an evidence-based approach to protecting our kids, and I look forward to working with Reps. James, Dingell and Salazar to get it signed into law.”

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LEADER JEFFRIES ON PBS: “THIS OUT-OF-CONTROL ADMINISTRATION NEEDS TO BE REINED IN”

Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on PBS NewsHour, where he made clear that Republicans must join Democrats in keeping the out-of-control Trump administration accountable for its repeated abuse of power, in Venezuela and in communities like Minneapolis.

AMNA NAWAZ: First up, Representative Hakeem Jeffries of New York, Leader of the House Democrats. I spoke with him this afternoon and started by asking his assessment of what happened in Minneapolis today.

LEADER JEFFRIES: There is no evidence that has been presented to justify the shooting of an unarmed woman resulting in her unnecessary death. Kristi Noem, the so-called Secretary of Homeland Security, is a stone-cold liar who has zero credibility on this issue or on any other issue. And what we need, as I believe the Governor has indicated, is a full and complete investigation. This rogue ICE agent who pulled the trigger should be criminally investigated to the full extent of the law, including for demonstrating a depraved indifference to human life.

AMNA NAWAZ: As you know, there are ICE officers deployed in multiple places across the country as part of the President’s immigration crackdown. What’s the role for federal lawmakers like you to ensure that justice is served here in Minneapolis, but also that this doesn’t happen in any other community?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, the President’s extreme immigration policies have been a complete and total failure. That’s why the American people across the country have been rejecting them. The President promised that the Department of Homeland Security and ICE would be targeting violent felons. They’re not targeting violent felons. They are targeting and deporting, in some cases, American citizens. And certainly individuals who have been part of these communities, in some cases, for decades. And Congress should step forward and reassert our authority. Unfortunately, Republicans who control the House and the Senate, temporarily for the time being, have functioned like a reckless rubber stamp for Donald Trump’s extreme agenda, as opposed to being part of a separate and co-equal branch of government.

AMNA NAWAZ: I want to ask you too about our other big story today, which is the escalation related to Venezuela. We saw U.S. forces seize two more Venezuelan oil tankers. We also saw the U.S. Energy Secretary say that the U.S. will control Venezuelan oil sales indefinitely. In any of the briefings you have received on Venezuela, have you gotten a clear sense of what the U.S. mission is in Venezuela and the timeline for how long we’ll be involved there?

LEADER JEFFRIES: The briefings have been unpersuasive and have left me and other Members of Congress with more questions than answers. It’s not clear what the strategy is moving forward. The one thing I do know is that the future of Venezuela should be decided by the Venezuelan people, nobody else. It doesn’t appear that the Trump administration has a plan to effectuate that. We also know that this notion that the United States is going to run Venezuela is completely and totally ridiculous. The Trump administration doesn’t even know how to run the United States of America effectively. We also need to step forward as a Congress to ensure legislatively that no additional military action is taken absent explicit congressional authorization. We know the Constitution is very clear that the power to declare war, matters of war and peace, are solely within the jurisdiction of the Congress, the Article One branch of government, and this out-of-control administration needs to be reined in.

AMNA NAWAZ: As you know, the White House has argued that they did not need congressional approval for what they called targeted and limited military action in Venezuela. And you’ve seen since the President and other officials have threatened more unilateral action in other nations, Colombia and Cuba and Mexico and Greenland. And on that, my colleague Lisa Desjardins asked House Speaker Mike Johnson today if military force in Greenland requires congressional approval. He said it depends on what that is. He went on to say ‘Congress has a responsibility to declare war. I think there is no scenario where we’d be at war with Greenland.’ What do you say to that?

LEADER JEFFRIES: The Republican majority has been nothing but compliant as it relates to Donald Trump’s extreme agenda. And so I don’t expect that we’d hear anything out of Republican leadership, but what we do know is that whether it’s aggression that’s militarily executed against Greenland or Panama or Colombia or Mexico or any other country in the Western hemisphere, it requires explicit congressional authorization. As it relates to the situation in Venezuela, let’s be clear about something. This was not a law enforcement operation. We’ve heard all manner of different excuses as to why they’ve gone into Venezuela. First, we heard it was about narco trafficking. Then we heard it was about the fact that we needed to expel the Chinese, the Russians and the Iranians. Then we, you know, heard that, well, this is about oil. I mean, at the end of the day, what is clear is that it appears to be a power grab by the administration without any plan to prevent us as a country from getting involved in another endless foreign war that costs the lives of American men and women in uniform.

AMNA NAWAZ: Leader Jeffries, if you believe the military action was unconstitutional, as you seem to be indicating here, what can you do about it? I mean, the President has lamented earlier this week to other Republicans that he was worried Democrats would try to impeach him if they lose in the upcoming midterms. Would you try to do that?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, what we have to do is deal with the issue that’s in front of us right now. And that’s to make sure that no further military action can be taken without explicit congressional approval by introducing a war powers resolution that we believe has a chance to pass the United States House of Representatives if we can secure just a handful of Republicans to join our effort and reassert congressional authority on behalf of the American people to prevent the expenditure of billions if not trillions of dollars in another failed foreign war.

AMNA NAWAZ: Do you believe you have Republican support for that?

LEADER JEFFRIES: We certainly have the support of Congressman Thomas Massie from Kentucky. We had gotten the support in a previous effort to restrain the administration on the Venezuela issue from Congressman Don Bacon. And we’re hopeful that we can secure the support of just a few more Republicans. And if, in fact, we do that, then the House can act. And we know that the Senate is planning to act on a war powers resolution tomorrow that has a chance of passing that chamber as well.

AMNA NAWAZ: Leader Jeffries, a lot more to talk about with healthcare subsidies, a funding deadline ahead. We hope you come back so we can cover those topics as well. That is House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries joining us tonight.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you much. Look forward to it.

Interview can be watched here.

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LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT ON ICE KILLING IN MINNEAPOLIS

Know Your Immigration Rights

If you or a loved one encounter immigration enforcement officials, it is essential that you know your rights and have prepared your household for all possible outcomes.

Ask for a warrant: The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. You do not have to open your door until you see a valid warrant to enter your home or search your belongings.

Your right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You are not required to share any personal information such as your place of birth, immigration status or criminal history.

Always consult an attorney: You have a right to speak with an attorney. You do not have to sign anything or hand officials any documents without speaking to an attorney. Try to identify and consult one in advance.

The New York City Office of Civil Justice and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) support a variety of free immigration legal services through local nonprofit legal organizations. To access these resources, dial 311 and say “Action NYC,” call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365 Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or visit MOIA’s website.


Brownley Joins Full California Congressional Delegation Push for Federal Disaster Funding One Year After Devastating Eaton and Palisades Fires

Washington, DC – On the one-year anniversary of the devastating Eaton and Palisades fires, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA-26) joined the Chairs of the Republican and Democratic Congressional Delegations, Representatives Zoe Lofgren (D-CA-18) and Ken Calvert (R-CA-41), U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (both D-CA), and the entire bipartisan California Congressional delegation in urging President Trump to provide overdue federal disaster relief funding and resources to help Los Angeles County communities rebuild and recover.

Fueled by wind gusts of up to 100 miles per hour, the Los Angeles County fires last year burned more than 40,000 acres — an area over three times the size of Manhattan. The fires destroyed over 16,000 structures, forced tens of thousands of residents to evacuate, and claimed at least 30 lives.

Due to the catastrophic scale of the Palisades and Eaton Fires, the lawmakers emphasized the urgent need for additional federal disaster assistance, coordination, and funding. They pushed President Trump to continue supporting impacted areas and provide additional disaster relief, just as the federal government has done for other disaster-stricken communities across the country. Although the administration worked with California state and local leaders to complete the fastest wildfire debris cleanup in U.S. history, President Trump has not yet approved California’s request for additional disaster relief necessary for long-term recovery.

The lawmakers highlighted California’s record cleanup with the help of the Army Corps of Engineers, clearing hazardous debris from more than 9,000 properties in under 30 days and removing over 2.5 million tons of ash, metal, concrete, and contaminated soil in the first nine months. They also expressed their appreciation for aid provided so far by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Small Business Administration to help residents and small businesses begin to recover.

“As the recovery process continues, additional federal support is needed, and our entire delegation looks forward to working cooperatively with your administration to ensure the communities of Southern California receive their fair share of federal disaster assistance,” wrote the bipartisan group of California lawmakers.

“Just as the federal government has come to the aid of communities impacted by wildfires across the western United States, tornadoes in the Midwest, ice storms in Texas, or hurricanes in the Southeast, we should once again support the recovery of the impacted families, businesses, and communities in Los Angeles County,” continued the lawmakers. “Therefore, as we mark the one-year anniversary of this tremendous disaster, we urge you to ensure Los Angeles County has the resources it needs to recover and rebuild.”

In addition to Brownley, Lofgren, Calvert, Padilla, and Schiff, the letter was also signed by Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-CA-11) and Representatives Pete Aguilar (D-CA-33), Nanette Barragán (D-CA-44), Ami Bera (D-CA-06), Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24), Judy Chu (D-CA-28), Gil Cisneros (D-CA-31), Lou Correa (D-CA-46), Jim Costa (D-CA-21), Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10), Vince Fong (R-CA-20), Laura Friedman (D-CA-30), John Garamendi (D-CA-08), Robert Garcia (D-CA-42), Jimmy Gomez (D-CA-34), Adam Gray (D-CA-13), Josh Harder (D-CA-09), Jared Huffman (D-CA-02), Darrell Issa (R-CA-48), Sara Jacobs (D-CA-51), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA-37), Ro Khanna (D-CA-17), Kevin Kiley (R-CA-03), Young Kim (R-CA-40), Mike Levin (D-CA-49), Sam Liccardo (D-CA-16), Ted Lieu (D-CA-36), Doris Matsui (D-CA-07), Tom McClintock (R-CA-05), Dave Min (D-CA-47), Kevin Mullin (D-CA-15), Jay Obernolte (R-CA-23), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19), Scott Peters (D-CA-50), Luz Rivas (D-CA-29), Raul Ruiz (D-CA-25), Linda Sánchez (D-CA-38), Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12), Brad Sherman (D-CA-32), Eric Swalwell (D-CA-14), Mark Takano (D-CA-39), Mike Thompson (D-CA-04), Norma Torres (D-CA-35), Derek Tran (D-CA-45), David Valadao (R-CA-22), Juan Vargas (D-CA-52), Maxine Waters (D-CA-43), and George Whitesides (D-CA-27).

The full letter can be found here and below:

January 7, 2026

The Honorable Donald Trump

President of the United States

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Ave, NW

Washington, DC 20500

Dear President Trump:

At the one-year anniversary of the devastating Palisades and Eaton Fires in Los Angeles County, we write to highlight the historic response, the ongoing recovery, and to urge continued and additional support. In the initial weeks after wildfires, thanks to the decisive action of your administration, the Army Corps of Engineers conducted hazardous debris cleanup that was concluded in record time – clearing more than 9,000 properties of hazardous materials in under 30 days. Large-scale structural debris removal followed—over 2.5 million tons of ash, metal, concrete, and contaminated soil were removed in the first nine months. The billions in aid provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the U.S. Small Business Administration have also been incredibly helpful in supporting residents and small businesses to get back on their feet. As the recovery process continues, additional federal support is needed, and our entire delegation looks forward to working cooperatively with your administration to ensure the communities of Southern California receive their fair share of federal disaster assistance.

Fueled by wind gusts of up to 100 miles per hour, the Palisades and Eaton fires burned over 40,000 acres, destroyed over 16,000 structures, forced tens of thousands of residents to evacuate, and killed more than two dozen people. These wildfires have caused widespread damage across Los Angeles County, including federal and state highways and roads, critical public infrastructure, homes, and buildings. Both state and city officials have pushed policies to cut red tape on permitting and rebuilding regulations to speed up reconstruction of homes and essential infrastructure. But the historic destruction caused by these wildfires requires continued federal funding and support. Just as the federal government has come to the aid of communities impacted by wildfires across the western United States, tornadoes in the Midwest, ice storms in Texas, or hurricanes in the Southeast, we should once again support the recovery of the impacted families, businesses, and communities in Los Angeles County. Therefore, as we mark the one-year anniversary of this tremendous disaster, we urge you to ensure Los Angeles County has the resources it needs to recover and rebuild.

Thank you for your consideration of this request.

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After Minnesota ICE Killing, Johnson Demands Answers from Secretary Noem on Dallas Police Cooperation with ICE

WASHINGTON, DC — In the wake of the killing of an American citizen by ICE, Congresswoman Julie Johnson (TX-32), Vice Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security Committee, announced that she sent a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem seeking clarity on how the Dallas Police Department (DPD) cooperates with ICE. This follows DPD Assistant Chief Israel Herrera telling the Police Oversight Board that ICE agents are not required to show proof of identity to DPD during operations.

“I have repeatedly demanded that Secretary Noem and the Department of Homeland Security rein in ICE agents—and they have refused,” said Johnson. “ICE has unlawfully detained U.S. citizens, undermined the rule of law, and now, with zero accountability, has killed an American citizen. This is unacceptable. Law enforcement is meant to protect and serve. Instead, ICE has sown fear in our communities. Agents are abusing their power, and by refusing to identify themselves to local law enforcement, they continue to erode trust in our police and put Texans at risk. With a rise in ICE impersonations and attacks on officers, particularly at the Dallas ICE field office, transparency is critical. At a minimum, ICE must identify themselves to the Dallas Police Department to protect public safety.”

Johnson has been a relentless advocate for accountability from ICE and the Department of Homeland Security, directly challenging Secretary Noem and her department for denying due process and violating constitutional rights. In September, Johnson visited Texas’s Bluebonnet Detention Center, where she witnessed firsthand the treatment of detainees and spoke with individuals being held despite not having committed any crimes.

To read the full letter, click here and see below.

The Honorable Secretary Kristi Noem,

As the U.S. Representative for Texas’ 32nd Congressional District and a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, I write to seek clarity on the Dallas Police Department’s cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), particularly in regards to the statement made by Assistant Chief Israel Herrera on December 9, 2025 at a Dallas Police Oversight Board Meeting informing the board that ICE agents do not have to show proof of identity to the Dallas Police Department (DPD).

DPD opted not to enter into a 287(g) agreement with ICE, however, the region still expects that federal partners will act in good faith with our local officials and the police department.

As we have seen a rise in impersonations of ICE agents and attacks on ICE officers, specifically at the Dallas ICE field office, to ensure transparency and public safety, it is crucial that ICE, at a minimum, identify themselves to DPD. Please respond to the following questions by January 15, 2026.

Are ICE agents instructed to visibly display their agency when engaging with the Dallas Police Department and other local law enforcement?

Are ICE agents and other federal law enforcement required to present verifiable identification to DPD upon request?

How is DPD expected to engage appropriately with ICE officers if ICE officers do not identify themselves appropriately?

Do you think it puts your agents, DPD, and the public at risk when ICE agents do not identify with local law enforcement?

Sincerely,

Julie E. Johnson

Member of Congress

Congresswoman Julie Johnson represents Texas’s 32nd Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives, serving on the Homeland Security Committee, Foreign Affairs Committee, and the House Administration Committee. Her district includes parts of Collin, Dallas, and Denton Counties.


Kamlager-Dove Statement on ICE-Involved Shooting of a U.S. Citizen in Minnesota

WASHINGTON, D.C. --- Today, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) released the following statement on the ICE-involved shooting of a U.S. citizen in Minnesota:

"Less than two hours after the shooting, the administration rushed out a reckless, bullshit statement claiming the U.S. citizen that ICE shot and killed in Minnesota was committing 'domestic terrorism.' No investigation. No facts. Just more propaganda from an out-of-control administration. I stand with Minnesotans in demanding an honest and immediate investigation."

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Kaptur and James Reintroduce Bipartisan IMPROVE Safety for Schools Act

Washington, DC — Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), and Congressman John James (MI-10) reintroduced the bipartisan IMPROVE (Incentivize Motivated Parents with Responsible Options for Vital Education) Safety for Schools Act, to address the issues related to gun violence and school safety. The IMPROVE Safety for Schools Act would create a tax credit of $300 to incentivize parents/guardians to purchase a gun safe or storage item.

“The leading cause of death for children across America is gun violence — a scourge that has taken a terrible toll on families in Ohio, Michigan, and across our country. Today, we are introducing the bipartisan IMPROVE Safety for Schools Act to help make our children, families, schools, and communities safer,” said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). “Our bipartisan legislation expands firearm safety information available for parents, establishes a $300 non-refundable tax credit for firearm safety technologies including gun locks and gun safes, and expands access to information about gun safety through multiple avenues. I will work with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to enact this bipartisan common sense legislation to keep our communities and our children safe.”

“My generation was still in school when the Columbine Massacre happened. I know what it’s like to walk into class with the fear that I may not walk out,” said Congressman John James (MI-10). “Now as the father of three school-aged boys, I pray every day that the Lord allows them to return home safe and sound. It’s insane that millions of parents have to make that prayer every day in America. It’s incensing that dozens of parents’ prayers have not been answered in a generation. Prayer is powerful but we must do more than pray. We must change policy too. The Second Amendment is not optional, and neither is keeping our kids safe from violence. We deserve an America that can protect itself from tyranny without leaving its children vulnerable to terrorism. Gun deaths are symptoms of cultural decay and hopelessness in America. Doing nothing to address those symptoms is unacceptable, which is why I’m proud to introduce this commonsense school safety legislation. We are tackling an area that seems to have the least number of solutions - school safety - by first addressing mental health and constitutional responsibility from both sides of the aisle.”

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Kaptur Reintroduces Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Gang-Related Crime

Washington, DC — Last month, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) and Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-02) reintroduced the bipartisan Gang Activity Reporting Act. This commonsense legislation would revitalize and strengthen information-sharing between federal agencies and local law enforcement — ensuring they have the necessary information and resources to keep our communities safe. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced companion legislation and are leading this effort in the Senate.

“Over a four-year period from 2021 to 2024, law enforcement agencies reported over 69,000 incidents of gang activity, and more than half of these incidents were violent crimes. This is why our bipartisan bill, introduced alongside my fellow Appropriator, Congresswoman Ashley Hinson is necessary. The FBI and our local law enforcement agencies need accurate, and comprehensive federal reporting on gang membership data and trends, so we can take the appropriate steps to support law enforcement and strengthen public safety in Ohio, Iowa, and from coast to coast,” said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). “While it is encouraging to see the FBI Crime Data Explorer report that violent crime is down 8% from August 2024, there is bipartisan and bicameral consensus in Congress that we must do more to ensure law enforcement agencies have access to the appropriate resources, tools, and support to combat gang violence. Understanding gang activity and trends is vital to combating violent crime, and making our communities safer, which is why our legislation is essential in this fight.”

"Gang violence continues to terrorize communities across the country, and our law enforcement needs better intelligence and stronger support to fight back. If we don’t understand how gangs operate, we can’t stop them,” said Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-02) “That’s why I’m proud to reintroduce this bipartisan bill to ensure federal and local officials have the most up-to-date information they need to protect our communities. Families deserve safer streets, and I’ll continue working to give our law enforcement the tools they need to combat gang violence.”

Federal reporting on gang activity is severely lacking, with no substantial update from the FBI since 2015, and numerous other reports ceasing in 2012. Congresswoman Kaptur’s legislation would change this and meaningfully help our law enforcement combat gang-related crime by directing the Attorney General, DHS, and the FBI to work directly with local law enforcement to produce a comprehensive report on the growth, recruitment strategies, and activity of local, national, and transnational gangs, as well as the federal resources currently being used to combat them. A full copy of the legislation can be found by clicking here.

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Kennedy Delivers Floor Speech Marking Fifth Anniversary of January 6th Capitol Attacks

Kennedy Urges Colleagues to Remember the Horrors of Trump-Incited Insurrection on Solemn Anniversary

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) delivered remarks on the House Floor during proceedings convened by the Congressional Black Caucus, Congressman Jim Clyburn (SC-06), and Congressman Steny Hoyer (MD-05), reflecting on the fifth anniversary of the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol.

(Watch Congressman Kennedy’s full remarks here.)

In his speech, Kennedy underscored the severity of the attack, honoring the more than 140 law enforcement officers who were assaulted while defending the Capitol and mourning those who lost their lives in the aftermath. He emphasized that the attack was the result of a sitting president inciting violence in an attempt to overturn a free and fair election. Kennedy also highlighted the Department of Justice’s successful prosecution of more than one thousand individuals involved in the insurrection, and sharply criticized President Trump’s decision to issue blanket pardons to those convicted.

“The Department of Justice convicted more than one thousand rioters and had hundreds of cases pending,” said Congressman Kennedy. “With the stroke of a pen on his first day in office, President Trump pardoned every single one, putting violent offenders back on our streets. Since their release, what have some of those pardoned rioters done? They’ve been charged with assaulting police officers, making terrorist threats, and preying on children. That is who this President set free - violent individuals and child predators.”

Marking the anniversary as a solemn moment in the nation’s history, Kennedy called on lawmakers in both parties to confront the reality of January 6th and reject political convenience in favor of democratic accountability. He concluded by urging the Republican majority to restore meaningful checks and balances and to uphold Congress’s responsibility to hold the President accountable.

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RELEASE: REP. RO KHANNA APPOINTED RANKING MEMBER OF THE HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE ON CHINA

Washington, DC — Representative Ro Khanna (CA-17) released the following statement on his appointment as Ranking Member of the United States House Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party:

“I am grateful to Leader Hakeem Jeffries for entrusting me to lead the Democrats on the committee, and to Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi for his dedication and leadership as Ranking Member for the past three years.

I recognize the gravity of this moment. For decades, Americans have suffered the consequences of unfettered globalism — a widening trade deficit with China, the offshoring of jobs, and the hollowing out of factory towns. A new economic patriotism must be at the forefront of our diplomacy with China.

We need an economic and strategic reset to build critical industries at home, open lines of communication, prioritize effective military deterrence, and tackle the opioid crisis that has torn families and communities apart. We also need a Manhattan Project to source and process critical minerals so that we are not dependent on China for rare earths and magnets. As Ranking Member, I will be committed to strengthening our economy, revitalizing manufacturing, and putting American workers first.

Together with the members of our committee, technology leaders in places like my district, in Silicon Valley, we can ensure that we lead in AI and innovation in the 21st century and guarantee economic security and prosperity for the American people.”

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Krishnamoorthi Announces No Occupation of Venezuela (NOVA) Act to Stop Trump Administration Power Grab

WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) announced today his intention to introduce the No Occupation of Venezuela (NOVA) Act, legislation to prohibit the use of any federal funds—military or civilian, direct or indirect—to further in any way the occupation or internal administration of Venezuela.

The NOVA Act reasserts Congress’s constitutional power of the purse by cutting off funding for any U.S. effort to occupy, govern, or administer Venezuela, whether through military force or civilian authorities. The legislation makes explicit that there is no authorization for the United States to run Venezuela’s government, energy sector, financial system, or law enforcement, including through the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, Treasury Department, or any other federal entity.

“At a moment when families are getting hit with rising costs of living, President Trump is trying to drag the country toward another overseas occupation he has no authority to start,” said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. “The Constitution is clear: Congress controls the money, and Congress has not approved the United States occupying or running Venezuela—militarily, economically, or administratively. Americans do not want another endless entanglement abroad or their tax dollars used to subsidize an occupation while health care and Medicaid are on the chopping block at home. The NOVA Act stops this power grab cold.”

Under the NOVA Act, no funds of the federal government may be used, directly or indirectly, to further the occupation or internal administration of Venezuela, ensuring the Executive Branch cannot pivot from military action to civilian control, economic administration, or sector-by-sector takeover without explicit congressional authorization. The legislation will not prohibit the provision of emergency humanitarian assistance, preserving aid to the Venezuelan people while preventing any U.S. occupation or governance of the country.


Krishnamoorthi Demands Accountability After Fatal ICE Shooting in Minneapolis

WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) issued the following statement in response to the fatal shooting of a woman during an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation in Minneapolis:

“This is Donald Trump’s America: a woman is dead because ICE is operating with impunity in our neighborhoods. This horrific loss of life is devastating and never should have happened. My heart is with her family and loved ones, who are now grieving a senseless tragedy. I will be demanding full answers and accountability from the Trump administration. When federal agents are unleashed without restraint or oversight, the consequences are deadly—and the responsibility for this killing is on their hands.”


Rep. Mike Levin to Introduce New Bill to Prevent Taxpayer Dollars from Being Used by Oil Companies in Venezuela

New Bicameral Legislation Will Prevent Government from Propping Up Big Oil Profits in Venezuela

Washington, D.C.—Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) announced that he plans to introduce new legislation in the coming weeks that would prevent American taxpayer dollars from being used to rebuild Venezuela’s oil infrastructure for the benefit of Big Oil companies. Oregon Sen. Jeff Merkley will pursue the Senate companion of this bill.

Following the U.S. military operation in Venezuela, President Trump stated that oil companies would go into Venezuela to build out oil production infrastructure and that the United States would “reimburse” their investments. Independent analysts say that under current market conditions oil companies do not have an incentive to invest substantially in Venezuela unless they are subsidized by the American public. At the same time, analysts have found that increased production in Venezuela is unlikely to bring down gas prices in the United States.

The new bicameral legislation would prevent taxpayer dollars from being used to help oil companies turn a profit off of Trump’s military operation in Venezuela. The legislation will be introduced in the coming weeks in both the House and the Senate.

“I will be introducing new House legislation to prevent American taxpayer dollars from being used to rebuild Venezuela’s oil infrastructure,” said Rep. Levin. “Americans’ money should never be used for backroom deals or other schemes that help Big Oil companies turn a profit on the Trump Administration’s operation in Venezuela. Taxpayers should not be on the hook for risky foreign oil projects that boost Big Oil profits and won’t lower costs at home.”

“American taxpayers have no business funding oil infrastructure in Venezuela,” said Sen. Merkley. “Congress must stand up to Trump’s reckless vision of making Big Oil even richer at the expense of American families. In fact, Trump’s plans could cost $100 billion to modernize Venezuela’s oil infrastructure to make a big profit for Big Oil. I think every American can think of a lot of issues, including health care, housing, and American infrastructure, where that money can be a hell of a lot better spent.”

In 2024, on the campaign trail, President Trump asked oil industry executives to donate $1 billion to his campaign and in return he would deliver on their wish list. President Trump is intent on keeping his promise to Big Oil.

At a time when millions of Americans can’t afford health care and are struggling to afford basic necessities, President Trump is more interested in regime change, foreign nation building, and giving handouts to his campaign supporters like Big Oil.

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Liccardo Responds to Minneapolis ICE Shooting

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Sam Liccardo (CA-16) released the following statement in response to the killing of a Minneapolis woman, Renee Good, by an ICE agent:

"Sending armed ICE agents—typically lacking any training or experience in urban policing—into our neighborhoods leads to tragically violent outcomes like this. Praying for this woman’s family, and for the Minneapolis community."


Lofgren, Calvert, Padilla, Schiff, Lead Full California Congressional Delegation Push for Federal Disaster Funding One Year After Devastating Eaton and Palisades Fires

WASHINGTON, D.C. - On the one-year anniversary of the devastating Eaton and Palisades fires, the Chairs of the Republican and Democratic Congressional Delegations, Representatives Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.-18) and Ken Calvert (R-Calif.-41), and U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (both D-Calif.), led the entire bipartisan California Congressional delegation in urging President Trump to provide overdue federal disaster relief funding and resources to help Los Angeles County communities rebuild and recover.

Fueled by wind gusts of up to 100 miles per hour, the Los Angeles County fires last year burned more than 40,000 acres — an area over three times the size of Manhattan. The fires destroyed over 16,000 structures, forced tens of thousands of residents to evacuate, and claimed at least 30 lives.

Due to the catastrophic scale of the Palisades and Eaton Fires, the lawmakers emphasized the urgent need for additional federal disaster assistance, coordination, and funding. They pushed President Trump to continue supporting impacted areas and provide additional disaster relief, just as the federal government has done for other disaster-stricken communities across the country. Although the Administration worked with California state and local leaders to complete the fastest wildfire debris cleanup in U.S. history, President Trump has not yet approved California’s request for additional disaster relief necessary for long-term recovery.

The lawmakers highlighted California’s record cleanup with the help of the Army Corps of Engineers, clearing hazardous debris from more than 9,000 properties in under 30 days and removing over 2.5 million tons of ash, metal, concrete, and contaminated soil in the first nine months. They also expressed their appreciation for aid provided so far by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Small Business Administration to help residents and small businesses begin to recover.

“As the recovery process continues, additional federal support is needed, and our entire delegation looks forward to working cooperatively with your administration to ensure the communities of Southern California receive their fair share of federal disaster assistance,” wrote the bipartisan group of California lawmakers.

“Just as the federal government has come to the aid of communities impacted by wildfires across the western United States, tornadoes in the Midwest, ice storms in Texas, or hurricanes in the Southeast, we should once again support the recovery of the impacted families, businesses, and communities in Los Angeles County,” continued the lawmakers. “Therefore, as we mark the one-year anniversary of this tremendous disaster, we urge you to ensure Los Angeles County has the resources it needs to recover and rebuild.”

In addition to Lofgren, Calvert, Padilla, and Schiff, the letter was also signed by Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.-11) and Representatives Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.-33), Nanette Barragán (D-Calif.-44), Ami Bera (D-Calif.-06), Julia Brownley (D-Calif.-26), Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.-24), Judy Chu (D-Calif.-28), Gil Cisneros (D-Calif.-31), Lou Correa (D-Calif.-46), Jim Costa (D-Calif.-21), Mark DeSaulnier (D-Calif.-10), Vince Fong (R-Calif.-20), Laura Friedman (D-Calif.-30), John Garamendi (D-Calif.-08), Robert Garcia (D-Calif.-42), Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.-34), Adam Gray (D-Calif.-13), Josh Harder (D-Calif.-09), Jared Huffman (D-Calif.-02), Darrell Issa (R-Calif.-48), Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.-51), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.-37), Ro Khanna (D-Calif.-17), Kevin Kiley (R-Calif.-03), Young Kim (R-Calif.-40), Mike Levin (D-Calif.-49), Sam Liccardo (D-Calif.-16), Ted Lieu (D-Calif.-36), Doris Matsui (D-Calif.-07), Tom McClintock (R-Calif.-05), Dave Min (D-Calif.-47), Kevin Mullin (D-Calif.-15), Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.-23), Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.-19), Scott Peters (D-Calif.-50), Luz Rivas (D-Calif.-29), Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.-25), Linda Sánchez (D-Calif.-38), Lateefah Simon (D-Calif.-12), Brad Sherman (D-Calif.-32), Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.-14), Mark Takano (D-Calif.-39), Mike Thompson (D-Calif.-04), Norma Torres (D-Calif.-35), Derek Tran (D-Calif.-45), David Valadao (R-Calif.-22), Juan Vargas (D-Calif.-52), Maxine Waters (D-Calif.-43), and George Whitesides (D-Calif.-27).

Full text of the letter is available here and below:

Dear President Trump:

At the one-year anniversary of the devastating Palisades and Eaton Fires in Los Angeles County, we write to highlight the historic response, the ongoing recovery, and to urge continued and additional support. In the initial weeks after wildfires, thanks to the decisive action of your administration, the Army Corps of Engineers conducted hazardous debris cleanup that was concluded in record time – clearing more than 9,000 properties of hazardous materials in under 30 days. Large-scale structural debris removal followed—over 2.5 million tons of ash, metal, concrete, and contaminated soil were removed in the first nine months. The billions in aid provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the U.S. Small Business Administration have also been incredibly helpful in supporting residents and small businesses to get back on their feet. As the recovery process continues, additional federal support is needed, and our entire delegation looks forward to working cooperatively with your administration to ensure the communities of Southern California receive their fair share of federal disaster assistance.

Fueled by wind gusts of up to 100 miles per hour, the Palisades and Eaton fires burned over 40,000 acres, destroyed over 16,000 structures, forced tens of thousands of residents to evacuate, and killed more than two dozen people. These wildfires have caused widespread damage across Los Angeles County, including federal and state highways and roads, critical public infrastructure, homes, and buildings. Both state and city officials have pushed policies to cut red tape on permitting and rebuilding regulations to speed up reconstruction of homes and essential infrastructure. But the historic destruction caused by these wildfires requires continued federal funding and support. Just as the federal government has come to the aid of communities impacted by wildfires across the western United States, tornadoes in the Midwest, ice storms in Texas, or hurricanes in the Southeast, we should once again support the recovery of the impacted families, businesses, and communities in Los Angeles County. Therefore, as we mark the one-year anniversary of this tremendous disaster, we urge you to ensure Los Angeles County has the resources it needs to recover and rebuild.

Thank you for your consideration of this request.

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Lofgren Celebrates New Year with $8.6 Million Grant Announcement for Road Safety

SAN JOSE, CA – Today, Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) announced that California's 18th district had received a total of $8,634,928 from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program.

"I'm proud to kick off 2026 with some amazing news for California's 18th district," Rep. Lofgren said. "The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is once again strengthening California by delivering over $8.6 million in funding to ensure the safety of drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike. I was proud to vote for this law, and I'm excited to see these funds improve road safety in San Benito County, Watsonville, and Morgan Hill."

The breakdown of the funding will be as follows:

$7,625,616 to San Benito County for the implementation of safety enhancement at 11 priority corridors and intersections. Work includes centerline and edgeline rumble strips, curve warning signs, lighting, high-visibility crosswalks, signal timing, and conversion of two intersections to roundabouts. Between 2018 and 2022, the project areas experienced 52 fatalities and 111 serious injuries.

$560,000 to the City of Watsonville for piloting speed safety cameras and radar feedback signs to reduce unsafe speeds, educate drivers, and gather data to inform future enforcement strategies. The demonstration project will result in a scalable, replicable model for speed management citywide.

$449,312 to the City of Morgan Hill for installing pedestrian and school safety countermeasures and deploying radar speed signs and speed-management software. Work includes installing rectangular rapid-flashing beacons at 6 crossings, school daylighting and striping at multiple schools, and 10 movable radar speed signs.

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Rep. Nancy Mace Moves To Subpoena Ilhan Omar’s And Husband/Brother’s Immigration Records In Minnesota Fraud Hearing

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Jan. 7, 2026) – Today, Congresswoman Nancy Mace moved to subpoena Representative Ilhan Omar and her brother, Ahmed Abdisalan Hirsi, for immigration records during a House Oversight and Accountability Committee hearing titled “Oversight of Fraud and Misuse of Federal Funds in Minnesota: Part I.” The hearing examined the widespread theft and misuse of billions in taxpayer funds tied to a Somali-linked fraud network which flourished under the watch of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

Public reporting has raised serious allegations including Rep. Omar entered into a legal marriage in 2009 with a man she had privately identified to friends as her brother, allegedly for the purpose of securing him lawful immigration status in the United States. Reports further state Rep. Omar had previously entered a religious marriage in 2002 and did not legally dissolve that earlier union until years later.

“These allegations, if true, raise grave concerns involving potential federal marriage fraud, immigration fraud, polygamy, incest, and tax violations,” said Congresswoman Mace. “Knowingly entering into a marriage to evade U.S. immigration law is a felony punishable by prison time, substantial fines, denaturalization, and deportation. Marrying a sibling is illegal in every state. The American people deserve the truth about our elected officials.”

During today’s hearing, Rep. Mace formally moved to subpoena Rep. Omar and Ahmed Abdisalan Hirsi’s immigration records to determine whether federal laws were violated and whether any fraud occurred in connection with Omar’s naturalization and subsequent eligibility to serve in Congress.

“If there is nothing to hide, then full transparency should not be a problem,” Mace continued. “This Committee has a duty to investigate fraud, enforce the law equally, and ensure taxpayer dollars are not exploited by government officials. We intend to get to the bottom of this.”

The Oversight Committee hearing featured testimony from Minnesota state lawmakers currently investigating large-scale fraud in publicly funded programs, including child nutrition, housing assistance, and social services– schemes which have already resulted in numerous convictions and are believed to represent only a fraction of the total fraud committed.

Rep. Mace used her questioning to press witnesses on whether Somali immigrants who committed fraud should be denaturalized and deported, when Minnesota officials became aware of the fraud, whether state leaders took steps to stop or recover stolen funds, and whether coordination occurred with federal authorities regarding denaturalization or deportation proceedings tied to criminal convictions.

“Democrats on this Committee would rather shout down witnesses than confront the truth,” Mace said. “Minnesota fraud is Democrat fraud. And no one. no matter how powerful or politically protected, is above the law.”

The Oversight Committee’s investigation remains ongoing.

See the Congresswoman’s full remarks, here:

MACE: She's going to be a great host on MSNBC.

PRESSLEY: This is my time.

COMER: I wouldn't want to jump in front of Ms. Mace if I were you Ms. Pressley.

MACE: I reclaim my time. This is my time.

COMER: I wouldn’t want to interrupt Ms Mace. It’s her time. Chair recognizes Ms. Mace.

MACE: Mr. Chairman, she’s still out of order. What do we have to do to get this woman in order. Her time has expired.

COMER: Chair recognizes Ms. Mace.

MACE: You’re going to be great on TV. You're really good. No, baby. You're not. No, baby, you're not. You are not in order. You're out of order. Goodbye. You're done. Mr Chairman, is my time up.

COMER: Chair recognizes Ms Mace. Are we good here?

MACE: Mr. Chairman, thank you.

As I listen to the witnesses answer questions today, I'm struck by the truly breathtaking amount of fraud.

The scope and scale perpetrated against the American people by Somalians in Minnesota. Screeching Democrats, like you just heard at our witnesses. Democrats on this committee don't want to talk about Minnesota fraud, because Minnesota fraud is Democrat fraud.

You're going to make a great host on MSNBC. You're going to be great. And this is a cover up. I mean, the very definition of cover up. And so while we're still trying to understand the scale of the fraud, it appears that the amount of fraud we are talking about could exceed the size of GDP in Somalia, the size of its economy is what we're talking about. So let that sink in. The amount of fraud we're talking about.

My first question is to Mr. Ballou this afternoon. Should Somalians in Minnesota be required to speak English, yes or no? Should they be required to speak English if they're American citizens?

BALLOU: I think that question is really inappropriate.

MACE: It's not inappropriate. This is the United States of America. Do you speak English? Should Americans speak English? Citizens speak English, yes or no? Is English the official language of the United States?

Mr. Chairman. I'm being interrupted again by another. I would like to reclaim my time, Mr. Chairman.

Mr. Chairman, I'd like to reclaim.

That seems to be a popular theme today.

Women have a right to speak in this committee. Conservative women have the right to speak here and not be interrupted by my male colleagues.

I would like to reclaim my time.

I think I lost like 10 seconds there.

COMER: Okay, we'll give you 10 seconds.

MACE: Okay. My next question is, should Somalians who committed fraud be denaturalized and deported Mr. Ballou?

BALLOU: Again, I'm not sure that's an appropriate question because the majority of Somalia.

MACE: So, if you commit fraud in this country and you are here from Somalia, you don't believe they should be denaturalized and deported?

How much fraud would it take for you to want to denaturalize and deport someone who committed fraud in this country? How much?

A billion? 9 billion? 19 billion. What would it take for you?

BALLOU: Most Somali Minnesotans are citizens.

MACE: Right? And the ones that committed fraud. The question was, if you understand English should be those who committed fraud, should they be denaturalized and deported? The Somalians who are here, the ones that can't speak English?

BALLOU: Yeah. So under U.S. law.

MACE: Okay. My next question for you is.

BALLOU: Can I please finish the question?

MACE: No, you can't because you're not answering the question. My next question is, this is yes or no, if you marry your brother and you commit immigration fraud, should you be denaturalized and deported? If you commit immigration fraud? Yes or no?

BALLOU: Again, that question seems really inappropriate.

MACE: You can't answer my question, so that's probably more inappropriate. Can you name one significant contribution to Minnesota from a Somali immigrant who can't speak English?

BALLOU: Absolutely, yes. But again, this is.

MACE: You didn't name one. Alright.

So my next questions are going to be for the Honorable Ms. Robbins. Good afternoon. Thank you all for being here today. I heard some discussion earlier about Al Shabaab and the discovery that you believe some of this money that was defrauded of the U.S. government went to Al Shabaab, is that correct? Did I hear that right?

ROBBINS: Yes. It's been proven.

MACE: How much money are we talking about?

ROBBINS: You know, we don't have an amount. So there's been specific cases where it's been charged where we have an amount. But then of the millions that go to Somali over the years and remittances, a portion of that we understand is taken as sort of a tax or a or, you know, corruption by Al Shabaab when it enters the country.

MACE: Can you explain to us who Al Shabaab is?

ROBBINS: It's a terrorist organization in Somalia.

MACE: And they're affiliated with Al Qaeda. Is that right?

ROBBINS: My understanding is they are.

MACE: I am on the DNI website where it tells me that since 2014, Al Shabaab has killed more U.S. citizens than any other Al Qaeda affiliate.

And as of 2025, Al Shabaab, this group is Al Qaeda's wealthiest component. Can you believe that?

ROBBINS: Yes.

MACE: And that American tax dollars through Minnesota, through governor Tim Walz, who shamefully had to resign from his reelection the other day? Thank you to the young YouTuber Nick Shirley. Um, this is the kind of thing that was happening in Minnesota. So I praise the Republicans who are here today from the Minnesota state legislature exposing this fraud. And then, Ms. Robbins, when do you think Tim Walz became aware of the fraud?

ROBBINS: I think he's been aware of it since the beginning. This was a huge issue in our state. In the year he ran for governor, and the OLA reports came out first, identifying the child care fraud in March and April of 2019, when he was in the first months of his term.

MACE: Was Keith Ellison in on it too? Knowledgeable? The catholic turned Muslim guy in Minnesota?

ROBBINS: Yes, they were all newly in office and this was very public knowledge in Minnesota.

MACE: What role do you think he, Tim Walz and Keith Ellison played there, his administration in delaying investigations into the fraud.

ROBBINS: So I've outlined several things where they stopped our ability to strengthen internal controls. And they also shut down the criminal investigations by the OIG and DHS.

MACE: Thank you, Mr. Chairman, I yield back. I do have two articles, Mr. Chairman, that I would like to ask unanimous, uh, this one on foxnews.com. Minnesota fraud probe will expand to other states and then, uh, on house.gov legislators blast, uh, DHS for revelations that it had contracts with.

Watch the Congresswoman’s full remarks, here:

https://youtu.be/OJb1E2wq27U


Magaziner Releases 2025 End-of-Year Report

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) released his office’s 2025 End-of-Year Report that includes a summary of his legislative actions, constituent services, community outreach, and federal funding secured for Rhode Island’s 2nd Congressional District over the past year.

Magaziner’s 2025 End-of-Year Report can be found here.

“Since the day I was sworn in, my North Star has been fighting for the middle class and those working to join it,” said Magaziner. “Despite the challenges we faced this year, we delivered meaningful wins for working Rhode Islanders. I am proud to share our 2025 End-of-Year Report, which highlights work crack down on corruption, keep more money in the pockets of working people, and make government work better for our state.”

Magaziner helped deliver, along with his colleagues in the congressional delegation, $315,540,930 of federal funding for Rhode Island’s 2nd Congressional District.

The funding includes more than $740,000 for runway improvements at T.F. Green International Airport, over $3.8 million to support workforce training programs, and more than $8.5 million to support public safety and victims of violent crime.

Magaziner authored 17 pieces of legislation in 2025, including bills to ban stock trading by Members of Congress, guarantee paid vacation for all workers, and expand benefits for military service members.

Delivering direct help to Rhode Islanders was a top priority for Magaziner’s office. In 2025, his team assisted 682 constituents with issues involving federal agencies, securing $872,888 in Social Security benefits, VA benefits, and overdue tax refunds returned to Rhode Islanders.


MATSUI, SEEC COLLEAGUES SLAM TRUMP’S DISASTROUS DECISION TO WITHDRAW FROM 66 INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS, INCLUDING UNFCCC

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07), Co-Chair of the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC), and fellow Co-Chairs Reps. Mike Quigley, and Paul Tonko and Vice Chairs Reps. Don Beyer, Suzanne Bonamici, Sean Casten, Mike Levin, and Chellie Pingree, released the following statement in response to President Trump’s decision to withdraw the United States from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, alongside 65 additional international organizations.

“Today, President Donald Trump sent a dangerous signal to the global community that America is withdrawing from its role as a world leader, leaving America weaker, poorer, and more unsafe than ever before.

“By directing the withdrawal of the United States from 66 international organizations, including numerous international climate and environmental entities, Trump is abandoning America's international leadership and allowing competitors and adversaries to step into the void we leave behind. At a time when climate change impacts are accelerating – whether it’s ever-worsening fire seasons, more intense hurricanes, or prolonged droughts – choosing withdrawal over leadership is shortsighted and profoundly irresponsible. Climate change does not respect borders, and we cannot address this crisis alone.

“All Donald Trump has succeeded in today was throwing away decades of leadership and global collaboration on key issues that were actively improving the lives of the American people.”

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McBath Launches Seventh Annual “Valentines for Veterans” Community Event

Atlanta, GA — Congresswoman Lucy McBath (D-GA) is inviting the local community to participate in her seventh annual “Valentines for Veterans” event. Constituents in Georgia’s Sixth Congressional District are invited to join McBath in submitting cards to be distributed to local veterans during the week of Valentine’s Day.

“Honoring the men and women who served our country is one of the great privileges of my work in Congress, and I am honored to offer this community event once again,” McBath said. “Each year, I look forward to working with my constituents to collect and distribute Valentine’s Day cards. Thank you to all those who will help show love to Georgia veterans!”

To participate in this program, constituents may drop off or mail cards to McBath’s Atlanta district office using the following address:

Rep. Lucy McBath

ATTN: Valentines for Veterans

3330 Cumberland Boulevard SE, Suite 610

Atlanta, GA 30339


McBride Releases First Year in Review Highlighting Bipartisan Wins and Results for Delaware

Washington, D.C. — Today, Delaware’s Congresswoman Sarah McBride released her first Year in Review, outlining the tangible results she delivered for Delaware in her first year in Congress—from returning millions of dollars directly to constituents to securing hundreds of millions in federal investments for communities across the state.

“In my first year in Congress, my focus was simple: make government work better for the people it is meant to serve,” said Rep. McBride. “That meant helping Delawareans cut through red tape, standing up for working families, and delivering real, bipartisan results.”

By the numbers, Rep. McBride’s first year delivered:

800 Delawareans assisted through constituent casework

98.6% constituent satisfaction rate

$3.9 million+ returned directly to Delawareans

$209 million+ secured in federal grant funding for local organizations and governments

$8.3 million+ secured in congressionally directed spending for Delaware

56,000+ emails sent to keep Delawareans informed

Rep. McBride also emphasized her commitment to bipartisan problem-solving:

5 bills introduced — 100% bipartisan

6 bills co-led

439 bills cosponsored, with nearly two-thirds bipartisan

360 votes cast on behalf of Delaware

Among the year’s key victories:

Reversing the Trump administration’s cancellation of funding for Delaware’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership, protecting local manufacturers and jobs;

Advancing $5 million in bipartisan funding to advance next-generation cooling technology in Delaware, easing grid strain from AI data centers and lowering long-term energy costs;

Preserving nearly $1 billion in home health care funding through a bipartisan effort, protecting seniors and care workers;

Passing her first bill in the House unanimously, the bipartisan Equal Opportunity for All Investors Act, expanding access to capital for small businesses;

Advancing $50 million in federal funding to replace a critical U.S. Army Corps dredge used to protect Delaware’s coastline;

Supporting veterans and military families by backing bipartisan legislation to protect earned benefits, cut red tape at the VA, and ensure servicemembers are paid even during shutdowns.

The report also highlights Rep. McBride’s extensive work in and across Delaware, including 355 constituent meetings, 30 small business tours, 10 town halls and roundtables, and visits to 35 municipalities statewide.

“Progress is possible when we put people over politics,” McBride said. “I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together — and I’m just getting started.”

The full 2025 Year in Review is available for review and download here.

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