Van Hollen Statement on House & Senate Negotiated Commerce, Justice, Science, & Related Agencies FY 2026 Appropriations Bill

U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS), released the following statement regarding the House and Senate negotiated text of the CJS FY 2026 Appropriations bill, filed today:

“I’ve long said our funding bills are a statement of our priorities. Within this legislation, I fought to invest in Americans’ priorities, reject the Trump Administration’s attempts to defund critical initiatives both in Maryland and nationally, and install safeguards against their efforts to ignore Congressionally-mandated funds. I worked to secure key investments to boost economic opportunity and strengthen public safety in our communities. I also fought within this bill to reject the Trump Administration’s attacks on science, including at NASA Goddard, NOAA, and NIST – all based in my home state of Maryland. Our bill makes clear that Congress, on a bipartisan basis, will not accept this Administration’s reckless, harmful cuts.

“In addition to these priorities, this bill also includes language that I worked to secure around the Trump Administration’s efforts to ignore the decades-long site selection process for a new FBI Headquarters. This language requires that, prior to spending reprogrammed construction funds on the Headquarters, the FBI must submit the contracted and completed architectural and engineering plan for the new headquarters building, including the security plan, for review by the Appropriations Committees. This is an important step to reassert Congress’s oversight role in the relocation of the FBI headquarters and to ensure the new headquarters meets the mission and security needs of the FBI.”

“This bill is not perfect – we had to make tough decisions when it comes to what programs to cut and what to protect. I would have liked more funding for science and research, Justice Department resources that help make our communities safer, and local economic development initiatives that help small- and medium-sized businesses.

“Republicans also chose to strip out my amendment that was previously passed unanimously in Committee to require the Justice Department to ‘retain, preserve, and compile any records or evidence related to any investigation, prosecution, or incarceration of Jeffrey Epstein’ and submit a report to Congress within 60 days regarding the records and evidence. Given their previous support of this amendment on the floor and in Committee, their backtracking is particularly egregious. It’s clear they’re still opposed to providing the victims and the American people the answers they deserve.

“That being said, within this bill we fought to reject nearly 100 Republican poison pill riders – including attempts to block gun violence prevention measures, restrict access to reproductive health care, restrict scientific climate crisis research, and impede on Americans’ civil rights. It also creates new legal safeguards to prevent the Trump Administration from decimating essential programs. These – and the many investments we secured – were hard-fought, and will help ensure that we’re supporting Americans’ true priorities, not those of this Administration.”

Key Bill Points & Highlights:

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA): The bill provides $24.44 billion for NASA, which is $5.63 billion above President Trump’s request. The bill rejects the administration’s devastating proposal to cut NASA Science by 47% and terminate 55 operating and planned missions. It instead provides $7.25 billion. The bill provides $1.6 billion for Astrophysics, including $300 million to complete the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope to investigate dark energy and the formation of galaxies and stars and $150 million to ramp up development of the Habitable Worlds Observatory that will search for potentially habitable planets, both of which are being developed at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. The bill also provides $500 million for the Dragonfly mission to explore Titan, the largest moon of Saturn—led by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory—and $100 million to ramp up development of the Geospace Dynamics Constellation (GDC) to better understand the Sun’s impact on the Earth—led by Goddard. The bill continues support for a new “Earth Observatory,” which is a collection of five missions to implement the Earth Science Decadal Survey, and the Landsat Next mission to ensure continuity of the longest space-based record of Earth’s land surface. The bill also provides increases for Hubble and James Webb Space Telescope operations and science to ensure full utilization of these incredible assets.

The bill includes critical resources to support the goal of returning Americans to the Moon and of eventually landing on Mars, providing $7.78 billion for Exploration, which is $117 million above fiscal year 2025. The bill supports progress on the Artemis Campaign, including sufficient funding for NASA to meet the ambitious goal of returning humans to the Moon by 2028.

Aeronautics is supported at $935 million, equal to fiscal year 2025 and $326 million above President Trump’s budget request, to ensure continued U.S. leadership in aviation and to invest in sustainable aviation technologies. The bill rejects President Trump’s shortsighted request to eliminate the NASA Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Engagement programs and provides $143 million for the programs. This includes: the Space Grant ($58 million), the Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Technology ($26 million), and the Minority University Research and Education Project ($45.5 million).

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): The bill provides $6.171 billion for NOAA, $1.67 billion above President Trump’s request. NOAA provides critical weather prediction that people, businesses, and communities rely on each and every day. The bill provides $1.46 billion for the National Weather Service to improve weather prediction capabilities, including a $10 million increase to bolster staffing at Weather Forecast Offices. The bill also provides $1.67 billion to maintain the current generation of NOAA weather and climate satellites and to invest in next-generation satellites—$135 million above President Trump’s request. It also rejects more than $300 million in proposed cuts to the National Marine Fisheries Service, which ensure sustainable management of U.S. fisheries.

Climate Research: The bill supports investments to advance critical climate research. In particular, it provides $224 million for climate research at NOAA, rejecting President Trump’s push to eliminate much of this funding, and it provides $2.15 billion for NASA Earth Science, rejecting President Trump’s proposed 53% budget cut. Funding for NOAA includes $32 million for the National Ocean and Coastal Security Fund, which improves the resilience of coastal communities around the country.

Maryland’s Coasts: Funding for NOAA includes $32 million for the National Ocean and Coastal Security Fund and $81.5 million for Coastal Zone Management Grants, which improve the resilience of coastal communities around the country. It also includes $7.1 million for the NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office, including $3.25 million for oyster restoration activities—an increase of $1.5 million—and $80 million for the National Sea Grant College program and $14 million for Sea Grant Aquaculture program, all of which support improved health and productivity of the Chesapeake Bay. The bill also includes $2.5 million for a new menhaden survey in the Chesapeake Bay to ensure the sustainability of a critical species.

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST): The bill rejects the administration’s proposal to slash NIST research and standards work by $150 million and instead invests a total of $1.847 billion for NIST, including $1.25 billion to spur research advances in cutting-edge fields like carbon dioxide removal, artificial intelligence, quantum information science, and cybersecurity. The bill maintains the Senate bill level of $128 million in base construction funding, an increase of $40 million over President Trump’s budget request and the fiscal year 2025 level, to repair and upgrade major NIST research facilities, including facilities at NIST’s main campus in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

Department of Commerce: The bill provides $11.132 billion for the Department of Commerce, $744 million more than fiscal year 2025 and $2.4 billion more than President Trump’s budget request. This includes: $400 million for Economic Development Assistance Programs (EDAP), which is $30 million more than was available in fiscal year 2025, including $41 million for the Regional Technology and Innovation Hub (Tech Hubs) Program—enough for up to two implementation grants for designated Tech Hubs. It also includes $175 million for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Program.

Census Bureau: The bill provides a $108 million increase over fiscal year 2025 for the Census Bureau to bolster the agency’s preparations for the 2030 Census and its ability to continue producing high-quality data.

Department of Justice: The bill provides $37 billion for the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the critical grant programs it administers, which help keep communities safe.

Addressing and Preventing Violence Against Women: The bill provides $720 million for grants provided by the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) and rejects President Trump’s proposal to combine OVW with the Office of Justice Programs (OJP). The OVW funding level is an increase of $7 million above fiscal year 2025 and is $215 million more than President Trump’s budget request. Funding is provided for multiple competitive and formula grant programs that support training for police officers and prosecutors, state domestic violence and sexual assault coalitions, rape prevention programs, lethality assessment and homicide reduction initiatives, domestic violence hotlines, women’s shelters, transitional housing, and rural support services.

Continued funding is provided for several OVW programs authorized in the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Reauthorization Act of 2022, including a restorative justice program and the Abby Honold Act. In addition, $12 million is provided for a grant program to increase access to sexual assault nurse exams, which will support grants for regional Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) training, salaries for SANEs, and Sexual Assault Forensic Examiners (SAFEs), and technical assistance and resources to increase access to SANEs and SAFEs.

The bill also includes $10 million in continued funding to incentivize states to adopt laws that protect the rights of sexual assault survivors.

The bill provides $50 million to support the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative, which is administered by the Bureau of Justice Assistance. This program supports multi-disciplinary community response teams tasked with developing and implementing comprehensive reform regarding sexual assault, including reducing the backlog of rape kits at law enforcement agencies. Additionally, the bill provides increased funding for other programs that are critical to assisting survivors, including: $79.5 million for the Sexual Assault Services Program; $55 million for Legal Assistance for Victims grants; $51 million for Transitional Housing Assistance grants; $50.5 million for the Rural Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Program; and $14.5 million for grants to assist governments exercising Special Tribal Criminal Jurisdiction.

Supporting Crime Victims: The Crime Victims Fund (CVF) provides critical support through direct assistance and programs offered by victim service providers to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, human trafficking, and other violent crimes. The bill makes $1.95 billion from the CVF available in fiscal year 2026. Of this amount, $97.5 million is designated for efforts to assist Tribal victims.

Maintaining Critical DOJ Oversight: The bill rejects President Trump’s request to cut DOJ’s Office of the Inspector General (OIG) by 30%, or $42 million compared to fiscal year 2025. The agreement maintains $139 million in funding for the OIG, providing the funding necessary so that it can detect waste, fraud, abuse, and misconduct at the DOJ.

Strengthening Police-Community Relations: The bill provides dedicated funding of $18 million for the COPS Community Policing Development program, as well as $15 million for the Law Enforcement Officer De-escalation Act. The bill provides a total of $35 million for three grant programs dedicated to preventing hate crimes. The bill also provides a total of $50 million for the Community Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative—a proven, evidence-based strategy that reduces violence and saves lives, which President Trump’s budget request seeks to eliminate.

Supporting State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial Law Enforcement: The Byrne Justice Assistance Grants (JAG) program is funded at $964 million, of which $346 million is released from Byrne JAG core funding to states and territories. Funding is also included for programs that support officer mental health and wellness ($6 million), and the purchase of bulletproof vests ($30 million). COPS Hiring is funded at $253 million, which will help hire approximately 1,260 more police officers nationwide.

Responding to Substance Use Disorder in Our Communities: The bill provides communities and first responders with dedicated grant program funding to respond to substance use disorder and to crack down on drug trafficking. The bulk of this funding is for Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act grants, which receive $403 million to fund specialized court docket programs like drug, mental health, and veteran treatment courts and substance abuse treatment programs administered by state and local correctional facilities. The bill also funds the COPS anti-heroin task force program at $34.5 million and the COPS anti-methamphetamine task force program at $13.5 million.

Rejecting Trump’s Attempts to Gut Federal Law Enforcement and DOJ Grants: The bill rejects President Trump’s proposal to merge the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) into the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and to substantially reduce resources for both, gutting the main federal law enforcement agencies charged with enforcing our nation’s gun and drug laws and keeping people safe. It also rejects President Trump’s efforts to dismantle DOJ’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) by restricting that funding to activities only related to fighting major drug trafficking organizations and transnational organized crime—not immigration raids. It also continues to fund and maintain all DOJ grant-making components as independent offices, rejecting President Trump’s attempts to not only gut critical resources that help support victims of crime, but to diminish OVW and the COPS Office existence as independent entities with subject matter and grants expertise, as Congress set them up to be under law.

Juvenile Justice: The bill provides $375 million for grant programs within the Office on Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, which is $74.5 million above President Trump’s budget request. The bill increases funding for long-standing programs and provides $105 million for Missing and Exploited Children Program grants; $43 million for Victims of Child Abuse Act grants; and $105 million for youth mentoring grants.

Supporting Tribal Businesses and Economic Development: The bill provides significant additional resources for Tribes and indigenous communities, including $5 million for the Office and Native American Business Development in the Office of the Secretary of Commerce, $6.5 million to support Tribal businesses through the Minority Business Development Agency, and another $5 million for the Assistance to Indigenous Communities program at EDA, which is specifically designed to address the needs of indigenous communities that have historically suffered from a lack of investment in core economic development needs.

Promoting Competition and Enforcing Antitrust Laws: The bill promotes economic freedom and opportunity by guaranteeing at least $245 million in funding for DOJ’s Antitrust Division—$12 million, or 5%, above fiscal year 2025. The bill also includes language allowing the Antitrust Division to retain and use all of the pre-merger filing notification fees it collects in fiscal year 2026—even if those collections exceed the $245 million appropriation for the agency.

Economic Development: The bill provides $466 million for community economic development through the Economic Development Administration. This includes $41 million for the Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs (Tech Hubs) Program—enough for EDA to fund two implementation grants. This also includes $100 million for Public Works grants, $10 million for newly-authorized Workforce Training Grant Programs, and $50 million for the Regional Innovation Program. EDA awards infrastructure and planning grants to all 50 States.

Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS): The bill includes $235 million, an increase of $44 million over fiscal year 2025, for the Bureau of Industry and Security. BIS plays a critical role in enforcement of Russian and Belarussian export controls and efforts to counter Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. It also supports stringent export control measures on high-end technologies, including an increase of no less than $10 million strengthen enforcement of export licenses for semiconductors, like the Nvidia H200, with end users in the People’s Republic of China.

National Science Foundation (NSF): NSF is funded at $8.75 billion, rejecting President Trump’s ludicrous proposal to cut federal investment in this essential scientific research and innovation by 57%—which would have returned NSF to its fiscal year 2000 funding level just as our global competitors are doubling down on their investments. The bill invests $7.18 billion for NSF’s research and related activities, level with fiscal year 2025, to help drive U.S. economic competitiveness, including investments in artificial intelligence and quantum information science, and the Directorate for Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships. NSF’s education and training programs to build tomorrow’s innovation workforce are funded at $938 million, rejecting President Trump’s proposal to eliminate these programs. This funding level for NSF should support nearly 10,000 new competitive awards and more than 250,000 scientists, technicians, teachers, and students.

Legal Services Corporation (LSC): The bill rejects President Trump’s proposal to eliminate LSC and instead provides $540 million for LSC. The bill also makes permanent a provision to permit LSC recipients to operate with boards of directors that composed of as little as 33% attorneys without requiring appointment by bar associations, greatly improving recipients’ ability to have fiscal experts and community representatives on their governing bodies. Additionally, the bill includes language to reinforce the existing legal requirement for LSC to receive its appropriation as an annual installment, ensuring that LSC recipients can continue providing services without interruption. LSC is the largest funder of civil legal aid in the country, and its grantees serve millions of low-income Americans every year, helping them with family law, domestic violence, housing, fraud, and other legal matters.


Warnock Leads Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Georgia Farmers from Tractor Overturn Accidents

Senators Reverend Warnock and Hyde-Smith introduced the bipartisan ROPS Tractor Safety Act, to create a cost-share program at the U.S. Department of Agriculture to assist farmers in retrofitting their tractors with rollover protection structures

1 in 10 tractor operators will overturn a tractor in their lifetimes; for every overturn fatality, five non-fatal injuries occur

Tractor overturns are the leading cause of death on farms, with an average of 96 fatal injuries resulting from overturns each year

Senator Reverend Warnock: “This legislation will help prevent overturn accidents and give farmers peace of mind, allowing them to upgrade their equipment without having to make difficult financial decisions to do so”

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Michael Bennet (D-CO), and Jim Justice (R-WV) introduced the bipartisan ROPS Tractor Safety Act to create a cost-share program at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to assist Georgia farmers in retrofitting their tractors with rollover protection structures (ROPS). The legislation would allow Georgia farmers to upgrade older tractors with rollbars and other protections.

“Georgia farmers are the backbone of our state’s economy, and they take on tough, often risky work to feed our families every day,” said Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock. “This legislation will help prevent overturn accidents and give farmers peace of mind, allowing them to upgrade their equipment without having to make difficult financial decisions to do so. Supporting our nation’s farmers shouldn’t be a partisan issue, and I’m proud to have worked on this bipartisan legislation to deliver for Georgia families.”

“We need to extend this small, but important program that can save lives in rural America,” said Senator Hyde-Smith. “Farming and ranching can be dangerous work, which is made even more perilous because receiving help after an accident in rural areas can take a considerable amount of time. Making retrofitting tractors affordable is worthwhile and I hope this lifesaving legislation finds broad support in the Senate and House.”

“Farming is dangerous work, and efforts that help Colorado farmers do their jobs safely and get home at the end of the day matter,” said Senator Bennet. “I’m glad to join my colleagues in the Senate and House to introduce this bipartisan legislation, which will help our farmers purchase, transport, and install rollover protection structures on their tractors. Legislation like this saves lives and protects our farming communities across the country.”

“I know the needs of our farmers because I am one, which is why we must do everything possible to protect their health and safety,” said Senator Justice. “This bill is one simple way we can help decrease the risk of fatal tractor rollovers on farms. I’m proud to support the effort in the Senate and hope that this grant program will encourage more farmers to consider retrofitting their tractors with roll bars to protect themselves and their equipment operators.”

Under the ROPS Tractor Safety Act, grants for retrofitting tractors with rollbars and other protective improvements would cover up to 70 percent of the cost of purchasing, transporting, and installing ROPS or rollbars, with a $500 out-of-pocket cap for farmers or eligible schools. In addition to providing grants to dramatically lower financial barriers and save lives, the legislation would create a program administrator, as well as a website and hotline to facilitate the application process.

A companion bill was introduced in the House by Representatives Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Josh Riley (D-NY), Brad Finstad (R-MN), and Don Davis (D-NC).

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Warnock, Markey Push Trump Admin to Shield Americans from Data Center Energy Costs

Georgia is one of the leading data center hubs in the United States, with an estimated 100-200 data centers in the state

Georgia is facing the largest demand for electricity in its history, in part due to data center construction

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) joined Senator Ed Markey and five other Senators in urging Laura Swett, Chair of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to take action to ensure that the growth of data centers does not result in unjust or unreasonable increases in energy costs for American households.

“Over the next three years, energy-intensive AI and cryptomining processors could triple their electricity consumption, adding more than 10,000 megawatts of demand annually. In PJM Interconnection, the regional transmission organization (RTO) that serves thirteen states and the District of Columbia in the mid-Atlantic region, data centers will drive 90% of new power demand over the next five years,” said the Senators. “Prompted by projections like these – many of which rely on uncertain and speculative data center proposals – utilities and transmission planning regions are spending billions to guarantee the grid can meet this demand. These costs are then passed to ratepayers through higher monthly bills. American households simply cannot afford inaction from FERC.”

Senator Warnock is laser-focused on making life more affordable for Georgians. That’s why he fought against the Republican One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which rolled back financial incentives that spurred 51 new domestic energy projects in Georgia. That GOP legislation is expected to increase electricity spending by up to $110 per year.

The full letter can be found below and HERE.

Dear Chairman Swett,

Artificial intelligence (AI) and cryptomining are fueling a rising demand for energy driven by massive, power-hungry data centers. The resulting surge in electricity use is contributing to skyrocketing residential electric bills. We write to urge the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to take immediate action to ensure that U.S. households are not forced to bear the costs of the growing nationwide demand for energy by data centers.

These are not merely hypothetical future electricity price hikes, even if some of the data centers themselves are hypothetical at this point. PJM’s 2024 capacity market auction, which aims to secure resources to guarantee that the grid will be able to meet peak demand in the coming months, closed at a record high of $16.6 billion, up from just $2.2 billion in 2023. These costs are being paid by PJM’s 65 million ratepayers. In West Virginia, just two transmission lines proposed in response to forecasted data center energy demand growth are expected to increase residents’ electricity bills by $440 million. These prices hikes are not just limited to PJM – costs are going up in nearly every state. Thus far in 2025, at least 210 utilities have either already raised or proposed to raise electric bills by more than $71 billion for 65 million electric customers. Without reforms, continued data center expansion will exacerbate this trend.

Over the next three years, energy-intensive AI and cryptomining processors could triple their electricity consumption, adding more than 10,000 megawatts of demand annually. In PJM Interconnection, the regional transmission organization (RTO) that serves thirteen states and the District of Columbia in the mid-Atlantic region, data centers will drive 90% of new power demand over the next five years. Prompted by projections like these – many of which rely on uncertain and speculative data center proposals – utilities and transmission planning regions are spending billions to guarantee the grid can meet this demand. These costs are then passed to ratepayers through higher monthly bills.

American households simply cannot afford inaction from FERC. Under the Federal Power Act, FERC is obligated to ensure that utilities and transmission planning regions maintain just and reasonable rates that are neither discriminatory nor preferential. In order to protect ratepayers from unreasonable or unjust price hikes driven by data center energy demand, FERC should reject transmission-related filings that do not properly address cost allocation or allow the cost of transmission built to serve data centers to be spread across the region—such as when FERC reviews Order 1920 compliance filings.

Beyond addressing proposals as they are presented to FERC, the Commission must proactively investigate and act if it finds the practices of a regional operator or utility to be unjust, unreasonable, unduly discriminatory, or preferential to data centers at the expense of residential ratepayers. In February 2025, FERC used its authority to open an investigation into the rules for PJM’s transmission system, aiming to address the build-out of data centers that are tied directly to large-scale generators. This is an important start to address the crisis at hand. FERC can and should investigate existing methods for cost allocation to determine how much residential ratepayers are paying for transmission and, if necessary, require subsequent action to ensure data center owners and operators do not burden households with more than their fair share of power infrastructure costs.

Nor should FERC fall for the argument that data center demand projections must allow large generators to jump the queue for interconnection to the nation’s energy grid. Near-term capacity shortfalls are better met by faster-to-deploy renewable technologies and battery storage than by large and expensive generators that take years to build and get online. Bad interconnection queue proposals will only increase costs to ratepayers without addressing any immediate energy supply issues, as Commissioner Judy Chang rightly noted in her February dissent to FERC’s ruling on PJM’s interconnection proposal to fast-track fossil power plant resources.

FERC should also consider broader proceedings that would standardize load forecasting and other practices relevant to addressing data center demand growth. We appreciate the Commission’s recent call to the RTOs and independent system operators (ISOs) to provide thoughts on how to improve load forecasting. Without transparency into load forecasting, it is difficult to assess the quality of a utility’s load projections, making it challenging to ensure the economically responsible build-out of new generation or transmission assets. With a guaranteed rate of return of around 11%, there is an obvious incentive for utilities to push for huge investments in transmission, including transmission for speculative data center interconnection requests that may not materialize. This means that FERC has an outsized role to play in protecting ratepayer interests and ensuring utility investments are both necessary and well-designed for the grid.

Finally, as FERC considers Energy Secretary Chris Wright’s recent request for a rulemaking to standardize and accelerate the interconnection of large loads like data centers, [I/we] urge FERC to prioritize the concerns of residential ratepayers. FERC is moving quickly on this request – just a few days after receiving the letter from Wright, FERC established a new docket to consider the proposed Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANOPR) and issued a notice inviting comments. The outcomes of this Administration-directed ANOPR could significantly change the degree to which households are charged for connecting big electricity users to the grid.

With energy bills already skyrocketing, FERC must use its authorities to reject unfair grid operator proposals, proactively investigate and address bad utility company practices and ensure just and reasonable rates for all Americans. We urge you to protect residential ratepayers over corporate profits, as FERC’s mission demands.

Thank you for your consideration of this request.

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ICYMI: Welch Speaks About January 6th Anniversary on NPR Podcast ‘Trump’s Terms’

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, recently joined National Public Radio to reflect on the five-year anniversary of the January 6th insurrection on the U.S. Capitol. Senator Welch discussed his harrowing experience in the Capitol during the attack and how the riot marked a new era of political violence in America.

“Even as I was hearing the glass break, even as I heard the shot going off, even as I was being told by the police to put on the gas mask, I didn’t believe it was happening. I didn’t believe it was happening. I was thinking, ‘Peter, this is not happening.’ And I realized the reason that I thought that is that I couldn’t believe it could happen in the United States,” said Senator Welch to NPR investigative reporter Tom Dreisbach.

Listen to Senator Welch’s interviewhere and below:

Senator Welch has condemned President Trump’s blanket pardons of January 6 rioters and subsequent retaliation against investigators and prosecutors. The Senator has also criticized continued attempts of Trump loyalists, such as Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, to rewrite the history of the insurrection and defend the rioters. In October, Senator Welch invited Daniel Hodges, a Washington D.C. Metropolitan Police Officer who responded to the January 6th insurrection, to speak about his experience and push back on Republicans’ claims of ‘one-sided’ politically motivated violence.

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Welch Leads Call Criticizing Trump’s Creation of ‘Second Amendment Section’ at DOJ to Push Pro-Gun Agenda

New section at DOJ’s Civil Rights Division will enforce Trump’s Executive Order on the Second Amendment

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, and Senate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) wrote to the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) to criticize their creation of a new ‘Second Amendment Section’ at the Civil Rights Division, which will enforce President Trump’s Executive Order on the Second Amendment and favor pro-gun litigation. In their letter to Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon, the Senators emphasized how the new Section is another departure from the Civil Rights Division’s long-standing mission of protecting Americans from discrimination in favor of advancing President Trump’s agenda. This new Section does not meet any statutory mandate under federal law.

“Since President Trump took office, you have decimated the Division’s non-partisan workforce and changed the Division’s enforcement priorities to serve the President’s agenda in lieu of our federal civil rights laws. The creation of the Second Amendment Section is another example of this profound retreat from the core mission of the Civil Rights Division,” wrote the Senators.

The Senators continued: “You have, in your own words, ‘cleaned house’ since President Trump took office. Approximately 368 employees have left the Division. You have replaced nonpartisan career staff with individuals who hold questionable qualifications and views in conflict with the Division’s enforcement obligations. You have also dropped a number of civil rights cases and initiated lawsuits to implement the personal priorities of the President. For instance, you terminated a significant settlement agreement DOJ had entered into with county and state health departments regarding wastewater treatment in Lowndes County, Alabama, calling the agreement to provide basic sanitation services ‘illegal DEI.’”

“In your video announcing its creation, you stated the Section will focus on injustices related to high costs and delays related to obtaining concealed carry permits and jurisdictions that have outlawed certain firearms. According to its website, that will encompass conducting ‘pattern or practice’ investigations under a statute Congress passed in the wake of the horrific beating of Rodney King at the hands of the Los Angeles Police Department,” wrote the Senators. “Consistent with congressional intent, the Division has historically used that statute to investigate law enforcement agencies for engaging in a pattern or practice of misconduct, including excessive force, racial profiling, or malicious prosecution.”

The Senators requested answers from Assistant AG Dhillon to the following questions by January 29, 2026, in order to better understand the Second Amendment Section and its intended priorities:

What resources from the Civil Rights Division are being rerouted from civil rights work to the new Second Amendment Section?

What federal laws does the Section intend to enforce? Please provide specific statutes and not just policy priorities for the administration.

Have you, or any DOJ personnel, coordinated and/or communicated with any pro-Second Amendment lobbying groups prior to the creation of this Section?

Senator Welch has been a leading voice in pushing back against the Trump Administration’s attacks on the rule of law and efforts to undermine the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division. In October, Senator Welch called for answers on Assistant AG Dhillon’s weaponization of the Division, including directing sections to pursue President Trump’s policy and political goals.

Last year, Senator Welch denounced President Trump’s attacks on DOJ’s Civil Rights Division, including the Administration’s plans to freeze all new civil rights cases or investigations at the division. The Senator also led all six of his Democratic colleagues on the Senate Judiciary Committee’s Constitution Subcommittee in demanding answers from DOJ concerning the Trump Administration’s efforts to dismantle the Civil Rights Division.

During President Trump’s first week in office, Senator Welch slammed the President’s plans to freeze all new civil rights cases or investigations at DOJ’s Civil Rights Division and suggestions that it would sideline police reform agreements established by the Biden Administration.

Read and download the full text of the Senators’ letter to Assistant AG Dhillon.

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DOW Moves to Punish Senator Featured in Reckless Video Targeting U.S. Troops Following Zinke’s Resolution

Washington, D.C. – Today, Western Montana Congressman and former U.S. Navy SEAL Ryan Zinke praised reports that the Department of War is moving to downgrade Sen. Mark Kelly’s military retirement rank and pay following his participation in a video encouraging servicemembers to independently judge and refuse orders from the Commander in Chief.

In November, Congressman Zinke and 16 other veteran lawmakers introduced a resolution condemning the video released by Sen. Kelly and several Democratic members of Congress, warning that it undermined military discipline and risked politicizing the armed forces. The resolution emphasized that lawful orders, military justice, and civilian control of the military must be handled through established legal and constitutional processes and not through partisan messaging.

“Our resolution condemning Democrat lawmakers for releasing that seditious video was intended to hold them accountable for their actions. Secretary of War Hegseth is taking the next necessary step fulfilling his sworn duty to uphold discipline, the cornerstone of military service,” said Zinke. “The Uniform Code of Military Justice holds soldiers to a higher standard, and individuals like retired Navy Captain Kelly remain subject to it. Advocating that troops must disobey orders deemed ‘illegal’ by the ‘Seditious Six’ is a clear violation. Well done, Secretary Hegseth.”

Read Zinke’s full resolution here.

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Smith Statement on Regime Change Strike in Venezuela

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to President Trump’s announcement regarding U.S. military activities in Venezuela.

“President Trump’s announcement this morning that U.S. forces carried out ‘a large-scale strike against Venezuela’ and have captured President Nicolas Maduro and his wife has introduced more chaos and instability into Venezuela. It appears the Trump Administration gave no consideration or plan for what comes next in terms of a functioning government in Venezuela. This vacuum threatens to destabilize South America, will likely have no impact on the drug cartels, and could make the situation worse.

“For weeks, Secretary Rubio and the administration claimed that U.S. activities in the region were not aimed at regime change in Venezuela. Today’s military action, taken without consultation with or authorization from Congress, shows that Secretary Rubio misled the Congress and the American people. The administration must immediately and truthfully brief Congress on its plans in the region and Congress, specifically the Republican majority, must stop abdicating its responsibility.

“I have grave concerns about the impact that today’s actions will have on international relations and the United States’ standing in the world. It appears to violate the very international laws and norms that have protected the United States and our partners and allies for more than 80 years. Based on the administration’s National Security Strategy, I am deeply concerned that this may be an indication of more to come as the administration seeks to dominate the Western Hemisphere.

“Today’s actions will not make Americans safer and do nothing to address the everyday concerns regarding the rising cost of health care, housing, groceries, and other critical issues impacting affordability and the quality of life here at home. These actions run counter to everything Trump campaigned on and rather than ending conflicts the president has chosen to drag the U.S. into further foreign wars."

https://democrats-armedservices.house.gov/2026/1/smith-statement-on-regime-change-strike-in-venezuela


Amo Statement on Anniversary of January 6th Attack on U.S. Capitol and Trump’s Attempt to Overthrow Free and Fair Election

WASHINGTON, DC – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) released the following statement on the fifth anniversary of the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol:

“Five years ago, a violent mob stormed our nation’s Capitol at the behest of President Donald Trump, seeking to overturn a free and fair election. Fueled by lies, this attack left a scar on our democracy. We cannot forget the sacrifices made by the brave law enforcement officers who stood between that mob and the heart of our democracy, especially those injured and those who gave their lives in service to our nation.

With the instigator of this attempted coup once again in power, we must remember that Trump and his accomplices sought to overthrow our democracy and have not relented. We should not shy away from the facts of that fateful day; the rioters smashed windows, left human excrement splattering the floors of our Capitol, and forced countless public servants—Republicans and Democrats alike—to flee for their lives. Trump pardoned the rioters, and he and his allies have continued to hollow out our democracy, side with traitors, and put themselves above the rule of law.

January 6th is a clear warning of how fragile our democracy can be when our Constitution is disregarded and a reminder to be constantly vigilant. Today, the best way to observe the anniversary of this tragedy is by recommitting to strengthening our democracy, defending truth, and upholding the rule of law to ensure that our American experiment can endure for generations to come.”

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Statement Providing an Update on Congressman Baird

Today, the Office of Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) released the following statement to provide an update on Congressman Baird’s recovery after his vehicle was struck in an accident:

“Congressman Baird is in the hospital and is expected to make a full recovery, and he is extraordinarily grateful for everyone’s prayers during this time. Congressman Baird looks forward to continuing his work on behalf of Hoosiers. The Office of Congressman Baird will continue to provide services and support for those who need it. Congressman Baird and his office remain steadfast in their commitment to serving constituents and focused on advocating for Hoosiers at the highest levels of government.”

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Barrett Opens New Lansing Office to Better Serve Mid-Michigan Residents

Lansing, Mich. — Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) announced the opening of his new district office in downtown Lansing.

The new fifth-floor office provides a professional, secure, and efficient workspace for Barrett and his staff to deliver high-quality constituent services. The new location also allows all visitors to access the office easily through the ADA-compliant main entrance and elevators; the previous office’s ADA-compliant, ramp-accessible entrance was located in the rear of the building.

“I’m excited to announce our new district office in downtown Lansing, where we will build on the busy and successful year we had serving the people of mid-Michigan,” said Barrett. “This new office will enable my staff and me to continue hearing from and helping local residents safely, effectively, and accessibly. The building provides visitors, constituents, and my team a safe and conveniently located space in the heart of our district. Together, we look forward to listening to mid-Michigan residents’ opinions, answering their questions, and helping them navigate federal government agencies — at the new office and across the district.”

The new office is located at:

101 S. Washington Square

Suite 520

Lansing, MI 48933


Statement from Congresswoman Joyce Beatty on the  Fifth Anniversary of the January 6 Attack on the U.S. Capitol

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (D-OH-03) issued the following statement on the fifth anniversary of the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol:

“We will not forget, even as the past few days have sought to test our memory and our resolve. We will not forget what happened in our nation’s Capitol five years ago. We will not forget the violence, the fear, or the deliberate attempt to stop the peaceful transfer of power. January 6 was a violent insurrection incited by Donald Trump. It was an attack on Congress, on the Constitution, and on democracy itself.

We will also not forget who stood in the breach.

Because of the extraordinary bravery of the United States Capitol Police and other law enforcement officers, democracy held. More than 140 officers were seriously injured. Some lost their lives. Others carry lasting wounds. They protected the people, the institution, and the democratic system this Capitol was built to uphold.

We will not forget our obligation to honor the officers who saved lives and preserved democracy. Congress passed a law to place a plaque at the Capitol recognizing their service and sacrifice. That plaque is complete, yet it remains unplaced. Failing to honor that commitment dishonors the very people who allowed Members of Congress to return to safety that day.

Since that fateful day, these defenders of democracy have too often been ignored, while those who stormed the Capitol are treated as heroes. We cannot allow history to be distorted or truth to be replaced with lies. When that happens, we weaken our democracy and make ourselves more vulnerable as a nation.

On the first day of his presidency, Donald Trump pardoned nearly 1,600 individuals involved in the attack. Some had prior criminal records. Others have gone on to commit new crimes since receiving pardons, including child molestation, kidnapping, and sexual assault. That is the truth, and we will not forget it.

Today and always, we remember the defenders of this democracy.

We honor those who gave their lives and their health.

And we will not allow January 6 to be erased, rewritten, or denied.”

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Congressman Blake Moore Introduces Legislation to Empower States to End Benefits Cliffs

WASHINGTON — Congressman Blake Moore introduced legislation providing states with the flexibility to innovate new ways to end benefits cliffs for their populations in order to incentivize career growth and financial independence.

The Upward Mobility Act creates a five-year pilot program for five states to combine funding from multiple federal anti-poverty programs into a single funding stream to eliminate benefits cliffs. This allows states to utilize savings from reduced bureaucracy, as well as resources from non-profit and private sectors, to design and invest in programs that prevent benefits cliffs while providing for the immediate needs of vulnerable populations.

Senator Jon Husted (R-OH) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

"Yet again, Utah is leading the nation with our one-stop-shop model for benefit programs designed to provide families with necessities and promote self-reliance. However, further innovation to streamline the distribution of benefits is limited due to federal red tape, resulting in benefits cliffs that disincentivize seeking higher pay," Congressman Moore said. "The Upward Mobility Act allows states the flexibility to design combined programs that meet the unique needs of their populations and would allow Utah to continue leading the way in helping families transition to financial independence without the fear of losing coverage.”

“Government assistance is not the dream for any American, but right now, it is the reality for too many hardworking people. Americans trapped behind a benefits cliff are disincentivized from pursuing higher-paying jobs. A new system that empowers, instead of entraps, people can create a path to achieve financial independence and a more hopeful future,” Senator Husted said. “The key word here is freedom. My bill would free states from bureaucratic rules that limit flexibility and allow them to invest those savings in reforms that eliminate benefits cliffs. It would free state governments to blend the public and private sectors to create a system that works best for their people. And it would free states to respond to the specific challenges confronting their population, ultimately giving Americans the freedom to pursue better jobs."

“Utah is a national leader in streamlining government programs through state innovation, evidenced by our one-door model for public assistance and workforce programs and our best-in-the-nation upward mobility. Even so, federal rules limit how we can further innovate to clear the path for families eager to escape poverty while reducing government dependence. The Upward Mobility Act allows states the ability to craft innovative programs that work best for families transitioning into work and greater self-sufficiency. I’m grateful to our Congressman Moore and Ohio Senator Husted for introducing this bill. We need to usher in a new era of state-led innovation, and this bill helps do that,” Utah Governor Spencer Cox said.

“Responsible state innovation is an untapped resource in our nation’s fight against poverty. We need to restore an era of federalism in social welfare policy that will lead to better outcomes, stronger fiscal responsibility, and improved upward mobility for all by removing work disincentives inadvertently built into the safety net. The Upward Mobility Act takes a vital step forward in that goal,” said Nic Dunn, Vice President of Strategy and Senior Fellow, Sutherland Institute.

“The Upward Mobility Act takes important steps toward helping low-income Americans move up the economic ladder and achieve independence by reducing the penalties that the current welfare system imposes on work and marriage. In addition, by combining state experimentation with rigorous third-party evaluation, the Upward Mobility Act provides a template for determining what works. This is the sort of compassionate welfare reform that should draw bipartisan support,” said Michael Tanner, Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity.

“The Upward Mobility Act reflects a transformative shift in federal antipoverty policy—creating a safety net that advances the inherent dignity, potential and purpose of every person. For decades, outdated programs have created barriers that trap individuals and families in cycles of dependency. This legislation offers a path forward that prioritizes work, opportunity, and upward mobility as the true measures of a successful safety net,” said leaders from The Alliance for Opportunity in a letter to Senate leaders John Thune (R-N.D.) and Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.).

“Waivers from one-size-fits-all federal bureaucratic requirements enabled a few pioneering states to lead the way toward a successful national welfare reform effort in the 1990s. Similarly, today, Senator Husted's Upward Mobility Act will encourage a handful of states to conduct rigorous experiments with innovative programs and partnerships to better promote opportunity for the next generation of American citizens,” said Jamie Bryan Hall, Director of Data Analysis, Ethics and Public Policy Center.

Background:

Benefits cliffs occur when a small increase in income leads to a significant or complete loss of federal benefits, leaving families financially worse off than they were before a wage increase.

The Upward Mobility Act creates a pilot program for five states to combine funding from 10 anti-poverty programs and design solutions that help families move up the economic ladder. Funding previously dedicated to regulatory compliance, administrative requirements, or ineffective programmatic functions could be used for individual case management, collaboration with local and non-government actors, and benefit structures that eliminate benefits cliffs and boost employment and earnings.

Programs Included: The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Section 8 Housing Vouchers, Section 521 Rural Rental Assistance Payments, Section 8 Tenant-Based Assistance, Public Housing Capital and Operating Funds, Child Care and Development Funding, Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), Community Development Block Grant, Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Dislocated Workers Funding.

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Administration for Children and Family Services (ACF) will oversee and facilitate the pilot program. The ACF will select state proposals that demonstrate progress in removing benefits cliffs and helping people become self-sufficient. That means rewarding projects that are most likely to reduce benefits cliffs, reduce direct assistance through higher levels of employment and earnings among beneficiaries. Pilot funding is capped at the prior year’s spending levels for the 10 programs, with only inflation adjustments allowed. States can also test limited projects covering at least 10% of their program funding. This limit on funding growth ensures that taxpayer dollars are targeted to those who need them. States selected for the program are permitted to tap into anti-poverty program contingency funds in cases of natural disaster or unprecedented need.

Full bill text can be found here.

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Representatives Moore, Hoyer Release Joint Statement on Greenland

WASHINGTON – Representatives Blake Moore (UT-01) and Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Co-Chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Friends of Denmark Caucus, released the following statement regarding Greenland and Denmark:

"Sabre-rattling about annexing Greenland is needlessly dangerous. The Kingdom of Denmark is a NATO ally and one of America’s closest partners. An attack on Greenland – a crucial part of that alliance – would tragically be an attack on NATO.

“Denmark recognizes how important Greenland is to our mutual security in the Arctic region. They have moved in lockstep with the United States in Greenland for decades, accepting every request to increase our military presence on the island, and are spending 3.3% of GDP on defense to help us deter Russia and China in the region.

"If the message is that ‘we need Greenland,’ the truth is that we already have access to everything we could need from Greenland. If we want to deploy more forces or build additional missile defense infrastructure in Greenland, Denmark has given us a green light to do so. Our ally has always accommodated us. Threatening to annex Greenland needlessly undermines that cooperation for no gain.

"Russia, China, and other authoritarian regimes around the world are yearning for conquest. The last thing America needs is a civil war among NATO that endangers our security and our way of life.”


Scott Statement on the Appointment of Dr. Jeffery O. Smith as Virginia’s Next Secretary of Education

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Education and Workforce, released the following statement after Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger nominated Dr. Jeffery O. Smith to lead Virginia’s Department of Education.

“I congratulate Dr. Jeffery O. Smith on his appointment to be Virginia’s new Secretary of Education. Dr. Smith has over 30 years of invaluable experience in public education, including service as the Superintendent of Hampton City Schools and as an adjunct faculty member of Old Dominion University and the College of William and Mary. Throughout his remarkable career, he has advocated for and recognized the importance of providing more access to workforce-oriented education and expanding career pathways for students.

“Dr. Smith’s appointment is critical as schools, students, educators, and parents navigate the Trump Administration’s harmful education agenda, which has threatened funding for low-income and rural K-12 schools, limited access to school meal programs, and made it harder for student loan borrowers to repay their debts.

“Dr. Smith is a visionary leader who joins a long list of highly qualified appointments to Governor-elect Spanberger’s incoming administration who will work tirelessly on behalf of all Virginians. I look forward to continuing to work with Dr. Smith and am confident in his ability to lead and strengthen Virginia’s Department of Education in its mission of ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed in life.”

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Bresnahan, House Authorize $68 Million for Tobyhanna Army Depot

WASHINGTON, DC: Today, U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (PA-08) announced the House authorized $68 million in funding for Tobyhanna Army Depot in S. 1071, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (NDAA).

“Tobyhanna Army Depot is a fundamental part of Northeastern Pennsylvania and our regional economy, supporting thousands of family-sustaining jobs while delivering mission-critical capabilities that keep our troops safe and our military ready,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “Our authorization of $68 million for Tobyhanna in the NDAA is a major win for Northeastern Pennsylvania and our national defense. This investment strengthens readiness, modernizes critical infrastructure, and provides long-term stability for the skilled civilian workforce that makes Tobyhanna a national asset. I will continue fighting to ensure Tobyhanna has the resources it needs to succeed and to protect the jobs and communities that depend on it.”

“The expansion of our radar test range is a key enabler to the further development, testing, and sustainment of critical radar capabilities for the Department of War,” said Kristyn K. Smith, Tobyhanna Army Depot Chief of Staff. “This modernization project is essential to ensure we as a Nation are postured with the next generation of radar technologies that will ensure dominance in the battlefield.”

The $68 million for Tobyhanna is authorized under the domestic military construction and expansion section of the NDAA to expand Tobyhanna's radar test range.

The House passed the NDAA on December 10, 2025, by a vote of 312-112, followed by the Senate’s passage on December 17, 2025, by a vote of 77-20. President Donald Trump then signed the NDAA into law on December 18, 2025.

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Rep. Calvert Statement on the Passing of Rep. Doug LaMalfa

Today, Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41) issued the following statement on the passing of Congressman Doug LaMalfa (CA-1):

“Doug was a devoted husband, a dedicated father to four beautiful children, and a newfound grandfather. Throughout his political career, Doug was a longtime Reagan conservative who believed in limited government, low taxes, and traditional values. He served his state and constituents with distinction both in the state legislature and later in Congress, where he was first elected in 2012. As a fourth-generation farmer in Northern California, Doug used his deep understanding of water and natural resources issues to institute changes to federal law following the 2017 Oroville Dam crisis and 2018 Camp Fire in Paradise, California. In 2024, Doug was unanimously elected to serve as the Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus for the 119th Congress – one of the largest congressional membership groups on Capitol Hill, focusing exclusively on rural policy issues throughout the West and beyond.

“Doug’s expertise, sense of humor and collegial manner will be sorely missed and his many contributions to environmental and rural policy will have a lasting legacy. I will very much miss my good friend and colleague, and my thoughts and prayers are with the entire LaMalfa family.”


Castro Marks Five Years Since January 6th Attack

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) released the following statement to mark five years since the attack on the United States Capitol on January 6, 2021:

Castro during today’s January 6th attack hearing. To view, click here.

“Today, we look back on the January 6th attack on the United States Capitol—a deadly attempt to obstruct the peaceful transfer of power. It is a stain on our nation’s history.

“In the months leading up to the attack, President Trump tried to overturn the results of a free and fair election. During the attack, Trump abdicated his responsibilities as commander-in-chief and incited chaos and lawlessness.

“Five years ago, I served as an impeachment manager during Trump’s second impeachment trial to hold the President accountable for his role in the attack. Today, I joined House Democrats for the reconvening of the January 6th Committee panel to continue to reckon with the damage the President has done.

“I will keep fighting against actions that undermine democracy at home and abroad. The American people, and the world, must know that democracy is worth fighting for.”


Jersey Shore Online article on official naming of Leonard G. 'Bud' Lomell VA Clinic'Toms River VA Clinic Officially Named For Local Hero'

By Andrew Rice

Published January 6, 2026

TOMS RIVER – The Veterans Administration clinic just hosted its official naming ceremony, as it will now be known as the Leonard G ‘Bud’ Lomell VA Clinic.

Leonard ‘Bud’ Lomell was a local World War II hero. After his service, he assisted other veterans when they arrived home via his work with the local veterans affairs offices. His impact rippled throughout the local veterans communities in Toms River.

Lomell’s service included the raid on Pointe Du Hoc with the Army Rangers as a part of the D-Day invasion. The Rangers scaled the 100-foot cliffs of their landing zones but could not find the artillery they were sent to destroy at first. Despite being wounded on the field of battle, Lomell was able to successfully scale the cliffs with his comrades. After a tenacious battle, Lomell and his patrol found the artillery that they were looking for. The guns were pointed right at Utah beach and could have jeopardized the entire invasion had Lomell not destroyed them with thermite grenades. He also saw combat during the Battle of the Bulge and the Battle of Hürtgen Forest.

Bud Lomell’s family and Army Ranger veteran John Wardell gathered in front of the picture of the VA Clinic with his name on it. (Photo by Andrew Rice)

This portrait of Bud Lomell hangs in Toms River Town Hall (Photo by Stacy Proebstle)

He earned several medals for his bravery in combat, including the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart with two Leaf Clusters, and the Legion of Honor.

Upon returning home from the war, he and his wife Charlotte started a family, raising three daughters in Toms River. He became Ocean County’s first Veterans Service Bureau director, and he continued to work with veterans until he died in 2011.

The ceremony featured several guest speakers, including Congressman Chris Smith, who helped open the original Veterans Affairs clinic in Brick in 1991. He also offered the legislation that would see the clinic’s name changed to honor Lomell in July of this year. The bill was then signed into law by President Trump.

“It is only fitting that the new, state-of-the-art, Toms River VA Clinic bear the name of Bud Lomell – one of the bravest and most highly decorated combat soldiers of World War II. Bud’s name will serve as an inspiration to all who walk through its doors, as well as to the Ocean County community at large,” he said.

The final speaker at the ceremony was Lomell’s daughter, Renee. Renee’s speech thanked everyone for showing up and Congressman Smith for helping create the legislation to have the name changed before speaking about the honor on her family’s behalf.

Congressman Chris Smith speaks at the VA ceremony. (Photo by Andrew Rice)

Once Renee’s speech concluded, the cloth was lifted off a picture that shows what the building would look like with Lomell’s name put on the side.

When Renee was asked what it means to have her father honored in such a way, she fought back her emotions while describing how it feels.

“The VA takes care of veterans, that would please him to no end… all I can say is that this is meaningful because it is like a full circle.”

Other guest speakers at the ceremony included J. Mark Mutter, Toms River Town Historian, and former Mayor of Toms River, Admiral Mo Hill.

The new VA Clinic is located on Hooper Avenue in Toms River. (Photo by Stephanie Faughnan)

Other attendees at the event included Lomell’s wife, Charlotte, and John Wardell, an Army Ranger veteran from Point Pleasant who served with Lomell.


Higgins Demands Accountability From Hilton Hotels After Reports of Discriminatory Conduct Against Law Enforcement

LAFAYETTE, LA – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) delivered a letter to Danny Hughes, the Area President for the Americas of Hilton, demanding a full accounting of how the corporation is addressing reports that a Minneapolis-area Hilton hotel denied service to federal immigration enforcement officers.

“Please provide my office with a written response detailing how Hilton is addressing this matter, including any punitive measures being issued to the independent operator of the hotel in question and the actions being taken to ensure similar incidents do not occur in the future,” said Rep. Higgins.

“Hilton doesn’t get to be an international hotel giant employing ‘500,000 team members’ worldwide when it’s convenient for federal government consideration and then hide behind the actions of independent operators when facing scrutiny. My office strongly opposes any corporate policy that would unjustly deny service to DHS and ICE agents. This matter must be addressed and fully clarified swiftly,” continued Rep. Higgins.


Congressman Cleaver’s Statement on the 5th Anniversary of the January 6th Insurrection

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement on the fifth anniversary of the January 6th insurrection and the attack on the U.S. Capitol.

“Today marks the fifth anniversary of the violent assault on the U.S. Capitol Building and our constitutional Republic, incited by the President of the United States in his despicable attempt to remain in power after knowingly losing a free and fair election. On this solemn day, we are reminded of the fragility of our democracy as well as our sacred duty, entrusted to us by generations prior, to protect it for the generations still to come.

“As we condemn those who participated in the first violent attempt to prevent the transfer of power in American history, we must also give thanks to the countless law enforcement officers who defended our nation during a time of grave peril. Tragically, some of those heroes are no longer with us today due to injuries sustained during that horrific event, but it is our responsibility to ensure their memory and sacrifice are remembered. It is because of those heroes that our Republic still stands today, even if the assault on the Constitution and the rule of law remain.

“Unfortunately, rather than unifying the nation in defense of the values that have made our nation truly great, the current administration and select members of Congress have actively worked to erase the memory of that day by pardoning those who participated in the violence, lying about the seriousness and coordination of the attack, and even unlawfully denying an honor to the memory of those who defended our democracy. This shameful stain will, rightfully, stick with them until the end of time.

“For a quarter of a millennia, the United States has grown into the most prosperous and powerful nation in the history of the world because of our commitment to the democratic principles of freedom, equality, and the supremacy of the rule of law, not the supremacy of a singular race, religion, or class. Although January 6th will remain as one of the darkest days in American history, let it also be a flashing signal about the delicacy of democracy and the vigilance necessary to ensure it continues for our progeny.”

“If we do not lay aside our partisan view of what happened on January 6th, history will surely lay us aside.”

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Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.


Rep. Clyde Announces 2026 Congressional Art Competition

GAINESVILLE, GA — Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) invited high school students in Georgia’s Ninth District to participate in the 2026 Congressional Art Competition. Submissions are due by February 20th, and the winning artist’s entry will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol building for one year.

“The annual Congressional Art Competition provides an awesome opportunity for young artists across the nation to show off their creativity and artistic skills,” said Clyde. “I encourage high school students across the Ninth District to participate in this year’s competition, and I look forward to seeing their unique designs.”

Last year, Philip Jeong won the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for Georgia’s Ninth District with his talented submission, Hope.

“Hope” by Philip Jeong

Background

Each spring, Members of the U.S. House of Representatives sponsor a nationwide high school art competition – The Artistic Discovery Contest, also known as the Congressional Art Competition. Since 1982, this annual, bipartisan event has served as an opportunity for Members to encourage and acknowledge the artistic talents of their young constituents.

The winning artwork will hang in the Cannon Tunnel of the U.S. Capitol for one year. The tunnel is the most highly traveled access point between the U.S. House Office Buildings and the U.S. Capitol. Every day, Members of Congress, distinguished visitors, and tens of thousands of tourists – from the United States and abroad – walk through the tunnel and admire the artwork.

Qualifying Students:

The competition is open to all high school students in Georgia's Ninth Congressional District. Congressman Clyde invites artwork that reflects an aspect of North Georgia, such as a landmark, industry, notable person, or even their own school.

How to Submit Artwork:

This year, to streamline the entry process, the Ninth District’s Congressional Art Competition will take place in two rounds: a digital submission and an in-person drop-off for selected finalists.

Round One: Digital Submission

All participating students must submit a high-quality digital image of their artwork by February 20th. This image should clearly and accurately represent the final piece. Along with the image, students must email a completed Student Release Form to GA09Art@mail.house.gov with the following subject line: Congressional Art Competition – [Student Name].

Round Two: Finalist Drop-Off

After judging, selected finalists will be invited to submit their physical artwork for final consideration and public display. If selected, students may deliver their artwork to Rep. Clyde’s District Office (210 Washington St NW, Suite 202 Gainesville, GA 30501) by 5 p.m. on Friday, March 13th.

For additional questions or to make in-person delivery arrangements, please call Rep. Clyde’s Gainesville District Office at 470-768-6520.

Artwork Requirements:

Artwork must be two-dimensional. Each framed artwork can be no larger than 26 inches high, 26 inches wide, and 4 inches deep. If your artwork is selected as the winning piece, it must arrive in Washington, D.C. framed. Even when framed, it must still measure no larger than the above maximum dimensions. No framed piece should weigh more than 15 pounds.

Accepted mediums for the two-dimensional artwork include:

Paintings: oil, acrylics, watercolor, etc.

Drawings: colored pencil, pencil, ink, marker, pastels, charcoal (It is recommended that charcoal and pastel drawings be fixed.)

Collages: must be two dimensional

Prints: lithographs, silkscreen, block prints

Mixed Media: use of more than two mediums such as pencil, ink, watercolor, etc.

Computer-generated art

Photographs

Each entry must be original in concept, design, and execution and may not violate U.S. copyright laws. Any entry that has been copied from an existing photo or image (including a painting, graphic, or advertisement) that was created by someone other than the student is a violation of the competition rules and will not be accepted. For more information on copyright laws, we recommend you visit the Scholastic website.

Exhibits with subjects of contemporary political controversy or sensationalistic, gruesome content are prohibited. Rules and regulations provided by the U.S. House of Representatives are available here.


Congressman Cohen Questions Witnesses and Testifies at a Hearing on the Fifth Anniversary of the Attack on the U.S. Capitol

WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Judiciary Committee who was in House Chamber when insurrectionists attacked the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, questioned expert witnesses and then testified about his experience that day at a special hearing on the fifth anniversary of that violent attempt to prevent the peaceful transfer of presidential power. The hearing focused on the “big lie” of a stolen 2020 election and President Trump’s central role in the attempted coup, including bringing the mob to Washington and inciting it to violence.

The four-and-a-half-hour hearing established that at least 140 law enforcement officers were injured in the attack and that the Capitol itself sustained $29 million in damage. Before questioning a panel that included a former U.S. Capitol Police officer, a federal prosecutor who pursued charges against the insurrectionists but resigned after Trump pardoned them all on his first day in office, an academic expert on misinformation, and a grandmother who accepted her prosecution and acknowledged her guilt as a rioter and refused Trump’s pardon, Congressman Cohen said:

“We should never forget this day. This, like Pearl Harbor, is a day that will live in infamy.”

See the congressman’s line of questioning here.

When he testified as a witness, Congressman Cohen described retreating from the House Gallery where he’d been observing the Electoral College vote count as the mop descended and passing police officers, with guns drawn, on his way back to his vacant House office. He said he locked the doors and prepared for what might come by arming himself with a commemorative Chicago White Sox Minnie Minoso baseball bat.

“We must never forget this day, and I won’t,” he said.


Crow Introduces Resolution to Mark January 6th as Annual ‘Democracy Day’

WASHINGTON — Congressmen Jason Crow (D-CO-06) and Dan Goldman (D-NY-10), on the 5th anniversary of the January 6, 2021 violent insurrection on our nation’s Capitol, introduced a resolution to designate January 6th annually as “Democracy Day.”

The resolution from Crow and Goldman would remember the sacrifices of over 140 law enforcement officers on January 6th who were injured or killed by a violent mob who attacked the Capitol, as well as acknowledge the successful transition of power despite the attack. Each year on Democracy Day, state and local governments, civil and educational authorities, and the American public would be encouraged to observe the day with civics and pro-democracy programs and activities.

“January 6th was a violent assault on our democracy and one of the darkest days in American history. I will never forget being trapped in the House Gallery as a mob of President Trump’s supporters stormed the Capitol and tried to stop the certification of a free and fair presidential election. No matter how many years go by, we cannot forget the events of January 6, 2021. Democracy Day would ensure that every American works to defend our democracy, protect free and fair elections, and ensure the peaceful transfer of power,” said Congressman Crow.

“The January 6th insurrection was a brutal attack on the very foundations of our democracy and a reminder of the fragility of this great experiment called the United States of America,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “I am proud to re-introduce the Democracy Day resolution to ensure that we remain vigilant against the persistent threats of authoritarian extremism and honor the heroism of those who defended our Capitol. By designating this day, we reassert our commitment to the peaceful transition of power, the rule of the American people, and the fundamental values that have defined our nation for 250 years.”

Congressman Crow has long worked to stand up for our democracy and condemn political violence, even amidst threats against him from President Donald Trump. Crow also continues to stand by the officers who protected Members of Congress and our Capitol, including through his Capitol Remembrance Act.

Last year, Crow delivered a speech from the House Floor in which he spoke directly to the American people about the concerning state of American politics and the path forward to unite our country. The full speech is available here.

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Crow Testimony on Fifth Anniversary of the Jan. 6 Attack

WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06) today testified before a congressional hearing to mark five years since the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

On that day, supporters of President Donald Trump tried to stop the certification of the free and fair 2020 presidential election. Their violent insurrection, encouraged by President Trump, led to the death of five law enforcement officers and injured at least 140 more.

Watch full coverage of the hearing here, and find Crow’s transcribed remarks below.

In his remarks, Crow said:

“Thank you Chairman Thompson. Thank you Speaker Pelosi, Leader Jeffries, Chairman Thompson and Members of the Select Committee for your incredible work, your leadership in articulating and preserving the facts and the memory and the history of what happened on January 6th.

“All my colleagues have done a remarkable job chronicling the violence, the sheer brutality as we saw 140 police officers brutally beaten by a mob inspired and weaponized and sent to the United States Capitol on his behalf to do violence, to derail our democracy and the will of the voters.

“I served three combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan as a paratrooper and an Army Ranger, and I never thought I would see the type of violence that I saw overseas at the pantheon of our democracy.

“But I want this moment to be a moment of hope and resolve. It must be a moment of hope and resolve.

“There’s been a lot of talk about oaths and leadership and bravery versus cowardice. There's a lot of cowardice in our country today. There are universities buckling, CEOs taking the knee, law firms cowing, Members of Congress capitulating. There is a lot of it.

“But in moments of greatness, and pivotal times of our country, it’s never the story of the cowards. It’s never their story. It’s always the story of the heroes, who are more often than not regular Americans doing amazing things. The story of people like Youman Wilder, a little league coach in Harlem, who, when federal agents descended on his baseball field and harassed and intimidated and threatened his kids, he said no: these are my kids, this is my baseball field, you leave. You have no right to be here. It’s the story of the millions of Americans who show up for No Kings rallies, the story of election officials who, despite threats and harassment and intimidation, say no, I will do my duty. It is their story.

“As a paratrooper, there’s a history and tradition that the senior paratrooper on a plane jumps out of the plane first, and then the other paratroopers follow, and it’s based on the idea that fear is contagious, but so is courage.

“This is our moment. We never asked for it; none of us woke up this morning thinking we wanted to live in an era of extremism and violence, where our democracy is being threatened and disassembled brick by brick, but that is always the nature of leadership. We never get to choose our moment. We only have to answer the question of what we are willing to do to stand up and meet that moment.

“And that is why I am so proud to be here with the people at this table, with the people at this dias, because you are all meeting the moment. America will meet the moment, and the little league coaches, the election officials, the store clerks, the police officers — everybody will stand up and defend our country and our democracy at its time of great need, and I’m so proud to be a part of it, I’m proud to be an American, and it is a time for a new American patriotism, for us to take back our democracy, and to move us forward in a better direction. I yield back.”

Crow, a former paratrooper and Army Ranger, serves on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and House Armed Services Committee. On January 6, he was trapped in the U.S. House Gallery in the “Gallery Group” as rioters breached the Capitol.


DeGette Statement on Trump’s Illegal Funding Freeze of Benefits for Vulnerable Children in Colorado

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Diana DeGette (CO-01) released the following statement after Donald Trump announced a freeze of federal funds for the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and the Social Services Block Grant program in Colorado:

“Donald Trump’s decision to take federal benefits away from vulnerable children in Colorado is vindictive and illegal. I vehemently oppose his actions as he continues his pattern of political retribution against our state. This devastating freeze will take food from families across the state, in both red and blue areas. Therefore, I urge my Republican colleagues to leverage their relationships with the administration and end this blatantly political attack against the most vulnerable families in Colorado. In addition, as a member of the House Litigation Task Force, I am exploring legal action to reverse these unlawful cuts.”


DeLauro Statement on Fifth Anniversary of January 6 Insurrection at the United States Capitol

WATCH: DeLauro remarks at hearing marking fifth anniversary of January 6

Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released the following statement on the fifth anniversary of the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol:

“It has been five years since President Donald Trump led an insurrection at the United States Capitol – one that traumatized and injured Capitol police officers and staff, and led to the deaths of five officers, tasked with defending our democracy at great personal risk to themselves.

“Today, most of those who attacked the Capitol to stop Congress from certifying the 2020 presidential election are free because of a blanket pardon issued by President Trump. Since then, many have been charged with new violent crimes including plotting to murder FBI agents in retaliation for investigating the case.

“President Trump has sent a clear message to those who attacked the Capitol on his behalf that day: I have your back. But our democracy is stronger than one man and his mob. Congress returned that night and finished its duty to certify the election of President Joe Biden.

“January 6 is a reminder of how easily our democracy can be threatened, but in this time of democratic uncertainty, let it also be a testament to its resilience.”


Deluzio Announces $182,000 in Federal Funding for Public Safety & Victims Services in Western PA

CARNEGIE, PA – Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) announced that $182,422 in public safety federal grant funding is coming to locations across Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District. Three awards equaling $182,422 are going to the Scott Township Police Department, Crisis Center North, Inc., and the Alle-Kiski Area Hope Center to improve public safety and support crime victims.

“I am glad to announce these federal grants that will fund important and lifesaving services for crime victims across Allegheny County,” said Congressman Deluzio. “I will keep up the fight to ensure that every municipality across the 17th District has the resources and support they need to build safer communities.”

The funding was awarded by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) at their December Commission meeting using federal funds from the Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program, the Federal Victims of Crime Act, the Crime Victims Services and Compensation program, and the Victims of Juvenile Offender program.

The grants awards are as follows:

Scott Township Police Department—$148,680 to hire a full-time social worker to provide expert crisis intervention support in cases involving mental health, addiction, homelessness, and several other complex social situations.

Crisis Center North, Inc.—$18,580 to continue providing magisterial and legal services to victims of domestic violence and their loved ones in northern and western Allegheny County.

Alle-Kiske Area Hope Center—$15,162 to provide Rights and Services Act (RASA)-supported services to victims of domestic violence.

The Trump Administration’s efforts to freeze funding and pause federal grants has created significant uncertainty for grantees, varying by agency and program. As of now, the courts are involved in determining whether many of these funding freezes will continue permanently or go on pause. Congressman Deluzio's office will continue to monitor these developments and fight to make sure federal funding keeps flowing to projects that make life better for Western Pennsylvanians. Recipients of federal grants with issues accessing lawfully appropriated funds, should reach out to Congressman Deluzio's office at PA17Grants@mail.house.gov.

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Congressman DeSaulnier Denounces Trump Cuts to Children's Social Services and Anti-Poverty Programs

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman DeSaulnier issued the following statement on the Trump Administration’s announcement of plans to illegally freeze $10 billion in funding for child care subsidies and social services for low-income children in California and four other states with Democratic governors.

“Playing politics with the lives of children by stealing billions of dollars meant to support their care and development is a new level of depravity for the Trump Administration. Targeting programs that Democrats and Republicans created together that support working families and children is not America First and will only damage our workforce and economy in the long run. If the Administration has the resources to pursue an endless regime-change war in Venezuela like it claims, it certainly can afford to support our own children. Congress alone authorizes funding and I call on my Republican colleagues in the House to denounce, investigate, and hold hearings on this cruel, anti-American, and illegal Executive overreach.”


Elfreth Statement on the January 6th Anniversary

WASHINGTON, DC - Today, Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth (MD-03) released the following statement on the five-year anniversary of January 6th.

“Today marks the five-year anniversary of January 6th. One of the darkest days in our history, we witnessed our democracy pushed to the brink after the President incited an angry mob to storm our nation’s Capitol. On this solemn day, we honor the brave men and women from the U.S. Capitol Police and other law enforcement agencies who defended our democracy and ensured the rightful certification of the 2020 election results. It is disgraceful that on his first day back in office, the President pardoned and commuted the sentences of nearly 1,600 individuals connected to the January 6th insurrection – hundreds of whom assaulted law enforcement officers and many of whom have since been charged with new crimes. Five years later, we still have a lot of work left to heal our country, but that can only begin by learning the lessons of January 6th, 2021.”

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Congresswoman Escobar Testifies at January 6th Hearing

Today, on the fifth anniversary of the attack on the Capitol, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) testified at a hearing titled “After January 6th: Setting the Record Straight on the Capitol Insurrection.” Her remarks can begin at 3:14:17, and the transcript can be found below:

Thank you Chairman, and thanks to everyone who took time today to make sure that we do not forget the truth of January 6th.

The videos, audio, and photographs of the violent domestic terrorists who attacked the capitol five years ago are still very chilling for those of us who were there that day, and frankly much of what we’ve heard today is really triggering. For those of us who were trapped in the gallery, it's really hard to relive that terror and that trauma and so I'm grateful to all of you for your strength and resilience.

I've many times recounted the terror, rage, and fear I felt while trapped in the gallery of the House of Representatives and the trauma that followed, but I'd like to focus on something that doesn't nearly get enough attention in our country: the betrayal by Donald Trump of the brave men and women who defended us and our nation’s capital that day. Some of them were here with us during this event.

These brave patriots, these law enforcement heroes, were beaten, attacked, some died and the emotional and physical injuries that they sustained remain to this day. Some of them had to leave their law enforcement career - a career that they loved - because of those injuries; and some of those who had to leave their careers still haven't financially recuperated.

It is absolutely shameful that while Donald Trump pardoned and released nearly 1,600 of those insurrectionists - members of the violent mob - there are law enforcement professionals who were forced to retire, who are still struggling today, who still have to get physical therapy, who still have to undergo serious behavioral health treatment, all because they defended our democracy and defended us. Many of those who were pardoned have gone on to commit additional crimes, like child molestation, kidnapping, and sexual assault - and by the way, they're back in D.C. today. They are celebrating themselves and they are marching to the Capitol.

But back to our heroes and our protectors. Despite the loss of their career, their health, and mental health, what's been outrageous is that these officers are being denied their public safety officers’ benefits. To date, not a single, living injured January 6th officer has been awarded this benefit, and some are resorting to GoFundMe accounts in order to get by.

We have to fix this. We have to address this. This is not right.

And at the same time, Donald Trump has talked about setting up a "compensation fund" for the criminals who committed these horrific acts.

Colleagues, we cannot let this happen. We will not let this happen. I want to again thank these law enforcement heroes for saving our lives. For their courage, for their commitment, and for their resilience.

Every American should know that this administration, led by the man who inspired this attack, and who has never faced accountability for this attack - this administration rewards criminals and punishes patriots. As long as we are alive, we will not allow history to be whitewashed, and as long as we are in public service, we have to remain committed to a country where truth matters, and where these patriots are protected and upheld.

Thank you, Chairman, for the opportunity. I yield back.

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Fedorchak announces January staff mobile office hours schedule

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) today announced the January mobile office hours schedule for her staff to connect with North Dakotans and assist them with federal casework.

January office hours:

Grand Forks County, The HIVE - Wednesday, January 7th, 10:00am – 12:00pm CT

Cass County, 3217 Fiechtner Dr, Fargo - Thursday, January 8th, 11:00am – 1:00pm CT

Stark County, Dickinson City Hall - Thursday, January 8th, 10:00am – 12:00pm MT

Ward County, Minot Public Library - Tuesday, January 13th, 12:30 – 2:30pm CT

McKenzie County, Watford City Economic Development Corporation - Thursday, January 15th, 10:30am – 12:30pm CT

Stutsman County, Jamestown Civic Center - Tuesday, January 20th, 11:00am – 1:00pm CT

The mobile office hours are designed to ensure every North Dakotan has the opportunity to meet face-to-face with members of her team and receive assistance with federal agencies.

Constituents can sign up for a one-on-one meeting with Congresswoman Fedorchak’s staff, but walk-ins will be seen as time allows once scheduled appointments are concluded. Dates and locations will be updated regularly on Fedorchak’s official website.


One year later: Fedorchak’s deregulation agenda delivers results

Washington, D.C. — One year after Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) urged then President-elect Donald Trump and Interior Secretary nominee Doug Burgum to roll back the Biden administration’s 20 most damaging energy regulations, Fedorchak’s call for reform has delivered meaningful action that restores common sense to federal energy policy.

“When I sent this letter a year ago, my goal was simple: help roll back federal rules that have placed undue burdens on energy producers, increased costs for Americans, and weakened grid reliability,” Fedorchak said. “Today, 17 of those rules are rescinded or on their way out. Thanks to the Trump administration's leadership and commitment to restoring American energy dominance, this past year marks a clear turning point. The regulatory agenda that punished American energy and drove up costs is being dismantled, rule by rule.”

In January 2025, Fedorchak sent a detailed letter identifying 20 federal rules that drove up costs, threatened grid reliability, and put North Dakota energy workers at a disadvantage. Today, 17 of those regulations have been fully repealed, withdrawn, vacated by courts, or are actively being rolled back.

Major Wins:

North Dakota’s BLM Resource Management Plan: Repealed through a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution led by Fedorchak, restoring access to energy development while protecting 12,000 North Dakota jobs and $34M in annual state revenue. The legislation was signed into law by President Trump last month.

The Biden EPA’s methane fee rule: Overturned, eliminating a costly new tax on oil and gas producers. The legislation to repeal the rule was cosponsored by Fedorchak.

EV mandate: The ‘EV mandate’ was withdrawn, with the administration moving toward a market-driven vehicle policy.

National highway standards: Federal highway greenhouse gas mandates were struck down in court and formally rescinded, restoring states’ ability to focus on building critical infrastructure.

Biden-era power plant and air rules: Multiple rules including Clean Power Plan 2.0, stricter Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS), the methane NSPS rule, and the proposed PM2.5 tightening have been repealed, withdrawn, vacated, or placed under formal reconsideration following legal review and grid reliability concerns.

EPA Waters of the United States (WOTUS) Rule: The Biden EPA’s Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule is being rewritten to comply with the Supreme Court’s Sackett v. EPA decision, narrowing federal jurisdiction and restoring certainty for landowners, farmers, and energy producers.

EPA Legacy Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR) Rule: North Dakota’s CCR application was approved by EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin in November alongside Fedorchak and Governor Kelly Armstrong in Bismarck. The decision makes North Dakota only the fourth state in the U.S. to have an approved CCR permit program. Proposed expansions of coal combustion residuals (CCR) regulations were shelved before finalization, preventing new compliance mandates that would have raised costs and accelerated baseload power retirements.

EPA clean energy standards for federal buildings: The Department of Energy’s fossil fuel phaseout rule for federal buildings is under active reconsideration after Congress advanced legislation, cosponsored by Fedorchak, to repeal the mandate. The bill has passed the House Energy and Commerce Committee, while the Department has delayed compliance and paused enforcement amid concerns about cost, reliability, and feasibility.

Despite these successes, Fedorchak acknowledges more work remains. “While agencies like EPA have taken steps to delay implementation of certain rules and provide compliance flexibility, Congress must support their objectives with statutory reform,” Fedorchak added. “When bad regulations are baked into law, meaningful relief requires Congress to step up and pass commonsense legislation. I look forward to working with my colleagues to do just that.”

CLICK HERE to read the full letter.


Feenstra Congratulates Iowan Starlyn Perdue on Being Appointed as State Executive Director for Farm Service Agency in Iowa

HULL, IOWA – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) released the following statement congratulating Starlyn Perdue, a lifelong resident of Pottawattamie County, Iowa, on her appointment by President Trump and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins to serve as State Executive Director for the Farm Service Agency (FSA) in Iowa.

“I want to congratulate my friend and an incredible advocate for Iowa farmers, Starlyn Perdue, on her appointment as State Executive Director for the Farm Service Agency in Iowa. This position will give Iowa farmers and our rural communities a strong voice at the USDA and ensure that our producers receive the best and most responsive service possible from their government,” said Rep. Feenstra. “Operating a century farm with her family in Pottawattamie County, I know that Starlyn will be an unwavering champion for our fellow Iowans who feed and fuel our country and the world while delivering victories for our agricultural community. I look forward to working with Starlyn and the Trump administration to continue supporting Iowa farmers and investing in rural Iowa.”

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