Comisionado Residente Anuncia $20 Millones para el Tribunal Federal tras Aprobación de la Cámara

WASHINGTON, DC — El Comisionado Residente de Puerto Rico, Pablo José Hernández, anunció la aprobación en la Cámara de Representantes del proyecto federal de asignaciones correspondiente a Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) y National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs, como parte del tercer paquete de asignaciones del año fiscal 2026.

Tras su aprobación en la Cámara, el proyecto ahora se dirige al Senado para su consideración y, de ser aprobado, pasará al escritorio del Presidente para su firma y convertirse en ley.

“Desde el inicio del proceso de asignaciones, hemos trabajado de manera firme para que las prioridades de Puerto Rico se reflejen en los proyectos de ley federales. Este paquete fortalece servicios esenciales, apoya a pequeños negocios y protege la seguridad regional en el Caribe,” expresó el Comisionado Residente.

Este tercer paquete refleja solicitudes formales presentadas por el Comisionado Residente ante el Comité de Asignaciones de la Cámara, con el objetivo de fortalecer servicios esenciales, apoyar el desarrollo económico y atender prioridades estratégicas para Puerto Rico.

Principales Prioridades para Puerto Rico Incluidas en el Paquete

FY 2026 – Asignaciones de Financial Services and General Government

El proyecto de asignaciones de Financial Services y General Government asigna $26.3 mil millones para el Departamento del Tesoro y agencias relacionadas, incluyendo:

$11.2 mil millones para el Servicio de Impuestos Internos (IRS), fortaleciendo la capacidad de la agencia para atender reclamaciones, procesar reembolsos y brindar servicios al contribuyente en Puerto Rico. El comisionado impulsó esta asignación mediante carta el 2 de mayo de 2025.

$9.2 mil millones para las operaciones del Poder Judicial federal, garantizando el funcionamiento de los tribunales con jurisdicción en Puerto Rico.

$20 millones para el Clemente Ruiz-Nazario U.S. Courthouse y el Edificio Federal Federico Degetau en San Juan, destinados a mejoras y mantenimiento de infraestructura judicial federal.

Mil millones para la Administración de Pequeñas Empresas (SBA), ampliando el acceso a préstamos, asistencia técnica y programas de recuperación para pequeños negocios en Puerto Rico, incluyendo $330 millones para programas de desarrollo empresarial.

$456 millones para la Oficina de Política Nacional para el Control de Drogas (ONDCP) y $299 millones paralas Áreas de Alta Intensidad de Tráfico de Drogas (HIDTA), fortaleciendo la coordinación federal y la lucha contra el narcotráfico y el crimen organizado que afectan a comunidades en los 50 estados y Puerto Rico.

$416 millones para la Comisión Federal de Comunicaciones (FCC) y $383.6 millones para la Comisión Federal de Comercio (FTC), reforzando la protección al consumidor y la supervisión de mercados de telecomunicaciones y comercio que afectan directamente a los consumidores puertorriqueños.

$324 millones para las Instituciones Financieras de Desarrollo Comunitario (CDFIs), ayudando a pequeños negocios y cooperativas en Puerto Rico a acceder a préstamos y capital para crecer y crear empleos. El comisionado impulsó esta asignación mediante carta el 2 de mayo de 2025.

FY 2026 – Asignaciones de Seguridad Nacional y Departamento de Estado

El proyecto asigna $50 mil millones para diplomacia, seguridad internacional y programas humanitarios, con impacto en la estabilidad regional del Caribe, incluyendo:

$9.4 mil millones para los Programas Diplomáticos del Departamento de Estado, fortaleciendo la presencia diplomática de Estados Unidos en el Caribe y América Latina.

$1.4 mil millones para Control Internacional de Narcóticos y Cumplimiento de la Ley (INCLE), reforzando la cooperación internacional contra el narcotráfico que impacta rutas y comunidades en Puerto Rico.

$410.5 millones para el Cuerpo de Paz (Peace Corps), promoviendo el desarrollo comunitario y el intercambio regional.

$45 millones para el Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI), fortaleciendo la seguridad marítima y la lucha contra el narcotráfico en el Caribe

El Comisionado Residente continuará trabajando para asegurar que las prioridades de Puerto Rico se mantengan al centro del proceso de asignaciones durante la consideración del proyecto en el Senado.


Comisionado Residente solicita explicaciones al Departamento de Energía sobre posible gasoducto en Puerto Rico

WASHINGTON, DC - El Comisionado Residente de Puerto Rico, Pablo José Hernández, envió una carta al Departamento de Energía tras reportes públicos sobre conversaciones preliminares relacionadas con la construcción de un gasoducto entre las centrales de San Juan y Palo Seco.

El Comisionado solicita al DOE información específica sobre si existe alguna evaluación formal en curso, si se han asignado fondos o misiones a agencias federales como el Cuerpo de Ingenieros del Ejército de Estados Unidos, el rol del Departamento en este proyecto y si se están utilizando fondos, programas u otra autoridad federal para adelantar la construcción del gasoducto, y cómo se garantizaría el cumplimiento con las leyes ambientales federales y estatales, así como con la supervisión del Negociado de Energía de Puerto Rico y los estatutos federales aplicables.

“En aras de la transparencia, solicitó aclaración sobre el rol del Departamento de Energía en este proyecto”, escribió el Comisionado Residente. (Traducción del inglés. “Indique si se están utilizando fondos, programas u otras formas de apoyo del DOE para adelantar el gasoducto reportado entre San Juan y Palo Seco u otra infraestructura relacionada. Contar con información clara y precisa sobre la participación del DOE es esencial para la fiscalización pública y para garantizar que la intervención federal en la infraestructura energética de Puerto Rico sea transparente y responsable.”

El Comisionado subrayó la importancia de que cualquier discusión sobre infraestructura energética esté alineada con las metas de resiliencia, confiabilidad y transición energética de la Isla, y que cuente con plena transparencia y rendición de cuentas, y no se limite a decisiones apresuradas o tomadas sin consulta a las comunidades afectadas.

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Houlahan and Bicameral Group Of Democrats Introduce Bill To Protect First Amendment Rights, Safeguard Americans From Politically Motivated Harassment And Prosecutions

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representative Jason Crow (D-Colo.-6) on Wednesday led Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), and U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) and Representatives Greg Casar (D-Texas-35), Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.-06), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.-14) and Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.-10) in introducing the No Political Enemies (NOPE) Act, legislation to protect individuals and organizations, including non-profits, faith groups, media outlets, and educational institutions, from politically motivated harassment and prosecution by the federal government. The NOPE Act would reaffirm the constitutionally protected right to free speech, and establish an affirmative defense and provide additional legal tools for those targeted in politically motivated prosecutions or civil enforcement actions. The bill would also create an accountability structure for any government agency or executive branch employee that uses federal funds to suppress protected speech by making them personally, criminally liable for violations of the Anti-Deficiency Act and allowing victims of political targeting to sue them in their personal capacity.

Less than a year into President Trump’s second term, there are hundreds of documented instances of the administration using the vast powers of the federal government to go after its perceived political enemies. Earlier this week, the Department of Justice opened an investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell because he refused to cede the Fed’s independence. After U.S. Senator Mark Kelly released a video that didn’t align with the regime’s agenda, Trump’s Department of Defense launched a military investigation targeting the decorated combat veteran. And following the horrific murder of Charlie Kirk, President Trump quickly exploited the tragedy to crack down on his critics’ free speech, even deploying the FTC to attempt to jawbone ABC into taking Jimmy Kimmel off the air.

“President Trump - and the loyalists who carry out his orders - think they can weaponize the federal government to target people who speak out against the regime with total impunity,” said Murphy. “They’re going after elected officials and public figures, but their real goal is to intimidate the millions of everyday Americans who oppose Trump’s political agenda into silence. Our bill gives those who are speaking truth to power the tools they need to defend themselves if the regime comes after them – and includes serious, enforceable legal consequences for the Trump loyalists who are carrying out his campaign of retribution. This bill shouldn’t be controversial. If Democrats and Republicans can’t agree on the basic idea that the president can’t use government employees and funds to go after his political enemies, then we are closer than ever to losing our democracy.”

“I went to war three times for this country to defend the rights of every American, including those who I may disagree with, because that is who we are as a country. The President is trying to use the full force of the federal government to suppress free speech rights. I won’t remain silent as the President and his administration go after their political opponents and stifle dissent,” said Crow.

“The Constitution is not a buffet line where you take what you like and ignore the rest. It is binding in full, even when it is inconvenient. We cannot defend constitutional rights only when they align with our politics and abandon them when they do not," said Houlahan. "If we allow political retaliation to replace the rule of law, we undermine the very democracy we are sworn to protect. The No Political Enemies Act is about restoring a simple principle: that no one in power gets to use the machinery of government to silence political opposition.”

The No Political Enemies Act’s key provisions include:

Clear Statement of Congressional Policy: Would enact a clear statutory declaration that no federal executive branch official may initiate or direct investigative, regulatory, or enforcement actions against Americans to suppress or burden constitutionally protected speech or association (i.e., “politically motivated” targeting).

Statutory Defense in Political Targeting Cases: Would create an affirmative defense in criminal prosecutions or civil enforcement actions. If a defendant presents substantial evidence that protected speech or association was a motivating factor, the burden shifts to the government to prove that legitimate, non-protected grounds justified the action. As part of this inquiry, the court may grant expedited discovery into government motivations. This provides a tool for those wrongly targeted to get meaningful access to evidence, corrects the imbalance of proof, and allows courts to quickly dismiss abusive actions.

Narrow Statutory Bivens Remedy to Deter Targeted Political Retaliation: Would establish a cause of action allowing individuals to sue federal officials for damages when their First Amendment rights are violated due to politically motivated targeting. The bill would immunize officials who demonstrate the target’s speech was not constitutionally protected, but end existing immunities for federal employees from lawsuits in their personal capacity.

Attorney Fee-shifting to Deter Meritless Politically Motivated Enforcement: Would require the U.S. government to pay reasonable attorney's fees and costs to individuals and organizations who prevail in criminal prosecutions or civil enforcement actions if they can demonstrate the government's action was substantially motivated by a desire to suppress their constitutionally protected speech or association.

Prohibition on Use of Funds for Politically Motivated Targeting: Would prohibit the use of federal funds for any investigatory, regulatory, or enforcement action initiated or pursued to suppress protected speech. Violations would trigger the Anti-Deficiency Act, creating administrative and potential criminal liability, and allow private parties to seek to prevent the use of such funds.

“Freedom of speech is the bedrock of American democracy and as the Trump administration drives America towards authoritarianism, it is more important than ever to affirm the rights of the people to stand up and speak out for what they believe,” said Schumer. “The NOPE Act would protect citizens and organizations from political persecution at a time when Trump uses the Department of Justice and other agencies as attack dogs to target his perceived enemies. Congress must protect the power of the First Amendment and pass this critical legislation.”

“Freedom of speech is sacrosanct in America. President Trump’s attempt to control our speech – whether by condemning and threatening Democratic Senators, cancelling Jimmy Kimmel, or setting out of office messages for furloughed employees – is a full on five alarm fire. This President is abusing and politicizing the executive branch because he wants to distract Americans from his failing economy and broken campaign promise to make things more affordable. The NOPE Act reaffirms what we know and will never stop fighting for: our democracy depends on our freedom of speech,” said Alsobrooks.

“President Trump is escalating his campaign to silence dissent and weaponize his office against anyone who disagrees with him. The right to free speech, enshrined in the Constitution, is a bedrock of our democracy. This legislation imposes additional safeguards to protect Americans from politically-motivated prosecutions. It stops Presidential punishment for exercising constitutional rights,” said Blumenthal.

“The Trump administration’s blatant disregard for our Constitution is eroding the bedrock values upon which our country is built. Congress must act to stop this Administration’s assault on people and organizations simply because they don’t agree with their point of view,” said Booker. “This legislation offers a clear roadmap to protect non-profits, faith groups, media outlets, educational institutions, and others from politically motivated harassment and prosecution by the federal government. This isn’t about whether you are on the Right or the Left—every person and every organization has a right to free speech and to express their views without harassment or persecution. We cannot sit by and watch Trump desecrate the Constitution and undermine our fundamental right to free speech, even if the views expressed are unpopular, controversial, or simply disliked by him.”

“The Trump Administration is relentlessly attacking free speech – trying to shut down opposition by throwing the full weight of federal law enforcement against those who dare to challenge them. This politically-motivated weaponization of government clearly violates the First Amendment and demands action from the Congress. This legislation will help provide additional safeguards to protect Americans’ free speech rights from a lawless administration,” said Van Hollen.

“The President and his Administration have shredded the fundamental principle that in America, we don’t punish our political opponents — we protect free speech,” said Padilla. “History warns us that when leaders try to weaponize the government against members of Congress or entertainers like Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert simply for questioning authority or voicing their disagreements, it’s a sign of weakness, not strength. The NOPE Act will make essential reforms to help protect the constitutionally protected right to free speech for all Americans.”

"From targeting media companies to nonprofit organizations to universities, Donald Trump’s administration has been pushing to silence and intimidate the president's critics. Now more than ever, we need to reaffirm our Constitutional rights and prohibit the president from weaponizing the federal government against people who disagree with his administration. With this bill, we’re fighting back to ensure we continue to protect the American people’s rights and freedoms,” said Schiff.

“Over the last year, we’ve seen an escalating crackdown from this Administration on the right of every person to do what they want and say what they think within the bound of our laws and due process,” said Smith. “Today, my colleagues and I reaffirm our commitment to upholding the most American of values: that our speech, our words and our principles are protected.”

“President Trump’s relentless harassment of those who speak out against his Administration’s disastrous agenda is a dangerous move toward authoritarianism and a direct attack on free speech,” said Welch. “Defending First Amendment rights is essential to ensuring that the American people can place their faith and trust in our democratic institutions.”

“Free speech isn’t just a core American value—it’s a foundation for democracy,” said Merkley. “As Trump continues his authoritarian assault on the First Amendment, Congress must defend the rights of all Americans by protecting the freedom and free speech we all hold dearly.”

“Today in America, we face the biggest free speech crisis in modern history. The president is abusing his power to silence people who disagree with him or his billionaire friends, and too many of our wealthiest and most powerful institutions are bending the knee. Congress must change the law to protect the rights of all Americans to speak and be heard,” said Casar.

“Trump campaigned on upholding freedom of speech, but continues to prosecute and harass political dissidents,” said Ocasio-Cortez. “The No Political Enemies (NOPE) Act will protect individuals, organizations, journalists, educators and educational institutions from harassment and prosecution by the federal government. We should not need legislation to protect one’s constitutional right to free speech, but we will never stop working to protect the American people from oligarchs and fascists.”

“The Trump Administration is scaring people into silence. Ridiculing reporters and blocking them from the White House, suing and extorting settlements from the media, threatening ABC over Jimmy Kimmel, taking funding from nonprofits, and intimidating businesses who cave to their demands. In America, we don’t bow to kings,” said Frost.

The bill is endorsed by Protect Democracy, Americans Against Government Censorship, the Campaign Legal Center, Public Citizen and MoveOn.

“President Trump is carrying out an unprecedented campaign of retribution against his political opponents–this is what autocrats do to cement their grip on power,” said Justin Vail, Counsel at Protect Democracy. “In a democracy, the president cannot use the vast powers of government to silence critics. The genius of the No Political Enemies Act is that it empowers everyday Americans with new tools to defend themselves against political targeting and hold government officials accountable for attacks on their free speech, regardless of who the president is.”

“The Trump administration is openly breaking the law and weaponizing the machinery of government to punish its critics and silence dissent. The No Political Enemies Act is a good step that gives important protections to Americans who speak out against the government, strengthening their rights to free speech and creating more accountability for politicians that abuse their power,” said Cole Leiter, Executive Director of Americans Against Government Censorship. “Over the last year, we have seen historic efforts to use the power of government to silence the president's political opponents. No American should fear they will be the victim of a weaponized government, and legislative action should be a cause for bipartisan agreement and action.

“Abusing government power to attack political opponents should be a hard NOPE,” said Adav Noti, Executive Director at Campaign Legal Center. “As threats to the rule of law grow, Americans are increasingly at risk of retaliation and intimidation for speaking their mind. The right to criticize and challenge government actions is not just protected by the Constitution — it is a cornerstone of American life. The No Political Enemies Act is an essential step toward protecting that foundational principle. This important legislation will prohibit the government from targeting individuals and domestic groups for their protected speech and political activities, as well as give Americans new tools to defend their rights. CLC thanks the sponsors of this bill for their leadership and urges Congress to pass the NOPE Act without delay."


4 More Lawmakers in Video Say Federal Prosecutors Are Investigating Them

A spokesman for Ms. Pirro’s office on Wednesday declined to confirm or deny any investigation.

Ms. Slotkin, who organized the video, served three tours in Iraq with the C.I.A. The other five members who appeared in the video, which was released in November, all served in the U.S. military. All six lawmakers also said they had received an inquiry from the F.B.I.’s counterterrorism division late last year.

Mr. Crow, who served as an Army Ranger and led troops in combat, accused Mr. Trump in a video post to social media of “using his political cronies in the Department of Justice to continue to threaten and intimidate us.

Ms. Houlahan, an Air Force veteran, said on social media that she and her colleagues were being targeted because they had said something that Mr. Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth “didn’t want anyone to hear.”

“This investigation is ridiculous on any day but especially so on a day the President is considering launching airstrikes against Iran in retaliation for their crack down on free speech,” she said.

Ms. Goodlander, a Navy veteran, called the Trump administration’s response “sad and telling” in a social media post.

“These threats will not deter, distract, intimidate, or silence me,” she added.

In a video released on Wednesday, Ms. Slotkin disparaged the investigation and Mr. Trump’s attacks on her and her colleagues as “legal intimidation and physical intimidation meant to get you to shut up.” But she vowed that they would not work.

“Right now, speaking out against the abuse of power is the most patriotic thing we can do,” she said.

Last week, Mr. Hegseth announced that the military had started administrative actions against Senator Mark Kelly, Democrat of Arizona and a retired Navy captain, who also participated in the video. The proceedings could result in a reduction in his rank and military pension.

As a retired naval officer, Mr. Kelly, who flew 39 combat missions as a naval aviator and four spaceflights as an astronaut, is subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice and therefore can be recalled to active duty and disciplined. The other Democratic lawmakers in the video did not serve long enough to retire and do not receive a pension or fall under military law.


Bipartisan Legislation Prohibiting a U.S. Invasion of a NATO State Introduced

WASHINGTON, DC – This week, Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Co-Chair of the Congressional Friends of Denmark Caucus, Bill Keating (MA-09), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Europe, Don Bacon (NE-02), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Cyber, Information Technologies, and Innovation, and Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Lead Democrat for the U.S. Delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, introduced the No Funds for NATO Invasion Act to prohibit the use of federal funds for an invasion of any NATO member state or NATO-protected territory.

"The No Funds for NATO Invasion Act makes clear to our allies and partners, as well as those around the world, that it is unacceptable to invade the territory of an ally of the United States. It is important to remember that for almost 80 years, NATO has been the foundation for peace and cooperation between the United States and our European allies. Without question, it has led to greater economic opportunity, enhanced safety and security measures, and peace with our allies that has had a direct impact on every American’s life,” said the Members of Congress. “This bipartisan legislation, which prohibits the use of any funds to invade a NATO member state or NATO-protected territory, demonstrates the strong commitment in the House of Representatives to support our NATO allies. We must cease the inflammatory rhetoric, work together to take advantage of our shared opportunities, and, most importantly, to counter the real threats from those who do not share our values.”

The No Funds for NATO Invasion Act would:

Prohibit any federal funds from being made available for the invasion of a NATO member state or any territory protected by Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty.

Prohibit any officer or employee of the United States from taking any action to execute an invasion of a NATO member state or any territory protected by Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty

Original Cosponsors Include: Dina Titus (NV-1), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Madeleine Dean (PA-4), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Joe Courtney (CT-2), Sarah McBride (DE-AL), Johnny Olszewski Jr. (MD-2), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Christopher R. Deluzio (PA-17), Julie Johnson (TX-32), Wesley Bell (MO-1), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Gabe Amo (RI-1), Jim Costa (CA-21), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Marcy Kaptur (OH-9), Jason Crow (CO-6), Brad Sherman (CA-32), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Greg Stanton (AZ-4), Ami Bera (CA-6).


Hoyer Floor Remarks in Opposition to Amendment on FY 2026 FSGG  Appropriations Bill

"I thank the gentleman for recognizing me. I presume this is a message amendment. I presume that because I know that the gentleman who offered it is bright, knowledgeable, and knows this amendment is clearly unconstitutional. I'm sure he's read the Constitution. He talks about it from time to time, and, of course, the language of the Constitution is very clear for exactly the reason that the founders did not want us to be able to monetarily penalize them for judgments with which we disagreed because they wanted an independent judiciary; 'a nation of laws, not of men.' A nation of laws that are not compromised by threats of cutting salaries, changing lifestyles so that the judiciary would be unlike England, who had a king who made the laws, [but] that it would be the Parliament and the courts. So, I would suggest that we withdraw this amendment. With all due respect to my friend from Texas, because surely, he would not want to go against the Constitution of the United States of America.

"I also want to say that I am honored to serve as the Ranking Member. I'd rather be Chairman, but I'm honored to serve as the Ranking Member with the distinguished Member of this body, Mr. Joyce. And, if he would like me to yield to him now, I will. If not, I want to thank him for his leadership of our committee, which has been collegial and positive, and I think has led to this resolution today. But I urge strenuously - and by the way, let me mention to the gentleman from Texas, he is protected by the Constitution of the United States. Mr. Chairman, I thank the Chairman, Mr. Sessions, from the great state. I want to tell him that the gentleman who offered this amendment is protected by that same Constitution of the United States from having this done to him. And surely, he would want to do unto others as he would want done to him. I urge strenuously [for] the defeat of this amendment, and I reserve the balance of my time."


Hoyer Floor Remarks in Support of FY 2026 FSGG Appropriations Bill

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Ranking Member of the Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Appropriations Subcommittee, delivered remarks on the House Floor in support of the Fiscal Year 2026 FSGG Appropriations bill. Below are a video and transcript of his remarks:

Click here to watch a video of his remarks.


Hoyer: Show Us the Plan to Keep Our People Secure

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Ranking Member of the Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Appropriations Subcommittee, delivered remarks on the House Floor in support of his amendment to the FY 2026 FSGG Appropriations bill that would ensure the General Services Administration (GSA), in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), submits a contracted and completed architectural and engineering plan for the Ronald Reagan Building to ensure any future FBI Headquarters meets the highest security tier for federal buildings. Below are video and transcript of his remarks:

Click here to watch a video of his remarks.


Chairman Hudson to Lead FCC Oversight Hearing Featuring Chairman Brendan Carr

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Wednesday, Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09), Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, will lead congressional oversight of the Federal Communications Commission as the agency works to close the digital divide, secure America’s communications networks, and strengthen U.S. leadership in wireless innovation.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr will testify alongside Commissioners Anna Gomez and Olivia Trusty.

“The FCC had an active 2025 that can be summed up in one word: deregulation,” said Rep. Hudson. “Under Chairman Carr, the FCC has taken significant steps to reduce barriers to broadband deployment, modernize outdated regulatory regimes, and delete obsolete rules.”

During the hearing, Hudson will focus on several major issues before the FCC, including:

Modernizing outdated broadcast ownership rules so local broadcasters can compete in today’s media marketplace.

ExecutingCongress’s direction to auction 800 MHz of spectrum for commercial use to strengthen America’s leadership in 5G and 6G. Hudson noted the FCC has already identified at least 100 MHz for auction.

Reformingthe Universal Service Fund (USF) to ensure long-term sustainability and that support reaches the right people, including rural communities, schools and libraries, rural health centers, and low-income households.

Cutting red tape to speed broadband deployment and help close the digital divide.

Strengthening Next Generation 911 technology, so emergency networks are reliable and interoperable.

Chairman Hudson looks forward to a serious, solutions-focused discussion that keeps the FCC’s work centered on delivering results for the American people.

Hearing Details:

WHAT: Subcommittee on Communications and Technology hearing – Oversight of the Federal Communications Commission

DATE: Wednesday, January 14, 2026

TIME: 10:15 AM ET

LOCATION: 2123 Rayburn House Office Building

The hearing will be open to the public and press and livestreamed online at the Energy and Commerce Committee website.


Jayapal Condemns Trump’s Suspension of Immigrant Visas for 75 Countries

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee, issued the following statement denouncing the Trump administration’s announcement that it will suspend the issuance of Immigrant Visas for 75 countries:

“Every day, the Trump administration and the Republican Party continue to show the American people they oppose all forms of immigration. Trump is once again using lies, racism, and xenophobia to block entire groups of people from coming and contributing to this country.

“Today’s announcement will largely impact and target family immigration, which includes people who are married to U.S. citizens. These people have done everything right. They have followed the law, many have waited in backlogs for years, and are so close to being reunited with their loved ones, only to have Trump pull the rug out from under them at the last second. It is just cruel.

“This stunning new policy will keep families separated indefinitely. It must be immediately reversed.”


Monopoly Busters Caucus Chairs Demand Answers from Big Oil on Their Role in Trump’s Venezuela Attack

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, the Monopoly Busters Caucus Chairs U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Pat Ryan (NY-18), and Angie Craig (MN-02) are demanding answers from major U.S. oil companies on their role in the Trump Administration’s military operation in Venezuela.

The Chairs are calling for a full accounting of each oil firm’s involvement in the planning and execution of the U.S. attack and planned occupation of Venezuela. President Trump claimed he briefed oil executives before and after the attack, describing the oil industry as committed to investing at least $100 billion to rebuild the Venezuelan energy sector and asserting that the corporate expansion would receive military backup.

“Public statements from President Trump suggest a level of pre-planned corporate-military integration that is as deeply troubling as it is legally fraught,” the Chairs wrote. “The claimed alignment between private profit and military force raises serious legal questions about the nature of your firm’s involvement in the operation and the planned occupation.”

The Members note that actions to help facilitate the military expedition or unauthorized negotiations with foreign actors may violate long-standing federal statutes like the Neutrality Act or the Logan Act. The Chairs also highlighted the risk of illegal collusion on Venezuelan ventures given the industry’s history of anticompetitive behavior.

“The American people deserve to know if our military is being used as a private security force for the oil industry,” the Members continued. “Congress has an important oversight and investigative role, and it is incumbent upon us to represent their frustration and concern.”

The oil companies have been given until January 30 to provide written responses and all relevant internal documents with information on:

Executive Branch Coordination: Details of all meetings and communications with the Executive Branch regarding the military intervention and planned infrastructure development.

Intelligence Sharing: Any intelligence, technical specifications, or data related to Venezuela that firms provided to the Executive Branch.

Reimbursement and Assets: Agreements regarding the Venezuelan oil the President intends to personally control or reimbursements for any planned industry investments.

Legal Risk and Immunity: Internal analysis of legal risks and any promises of legal immunization offered by the Trump Administration.

Labor and Affordability: Projected impact of potential multi-billion-dollar investments in Venezuela on domestic workforce and energy prices.

The letter was sent to the large U.S. oil companies that reportedly met with the Trump Administration on January 9 at the White House (letters linked): Chevron, ExxonMobil, ConocoPhillips, Continental Resources, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, Valero Energy Corporation, and Halliburton Company.


LEADER JEFFRIES: “EVERYDAY AMERICANS ARE SUFFERING UNDER THE OPPRESSIVE NATURE OF THE TRUMP-REPUBLICAN ECONOMY”

Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries held a press conference, where he emphasized that nearly a year since Donald Trump took office, prices are higher than ever and House Democrats will continue fighting to lower costs and make life better for everyday Americans.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Approximately a year ago, Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States of America. And he indicated that he was going to bring about a golden age in this great country. What Donald Trump and the Republicans have done as a result of their toxic, extreme policies is bring about a rotten age in the United States of America. The largest cut to Medicaid in American history. Hospitals, nursing homes and community-based health centers closing as a result of the Republican One Big Ugly Bill. Republicans are refusing to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits, and that’s going to create a situation where tens of millions of everyday Americans will be unable to go see a doctor when they need one because their premiums are skyrocketing out of control, in some instances increasing by $1000 or $2000 per month. The Trump tariffs are making life more expensive for tens of millions of working class Americans. And the Trump administration has unleashed these lawless masked ICE agents to brutalize American citizens, even resulting in the unjustified killing of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good.

One year later, the Trump administration has been a complete and total failure, and the American people know it. And Republicans haven’t done a damn thing to make life better for working class Americans, everyday Americans and middle class Americans despite promising that costs were going to go down on day one. Costs haven’t gone down in the United States of America with Republican control of the House, the Senate and the presidency. Costs have gone up. Inflation skyrocketing out of control. Housing costs out of control. Grocery costs out of control. Utility bills out of control. Child care costs out of control. And healthcare costs out of control. Everyday Americans are suffering under the oppressive nature of the Trump-Republican economy. And it’s time for some congressional action to actually keep your word as Republicans, based on what you said you would do, which is to focus on addressing the high cost of living in this country. Instead, Republicans have consistently focused on rewarding their billionaire donors with massive tax breaks and then engaging, out of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, the largest pay-to-play scheme in the history of the country. It’s disgusting. And the American people know it.

Full press conference can be watched here.

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LEADER JEFFRIES ON MS NOW: “WE NEED MASSIVE REFORM TO THE WAY IN WHICH ICE AND DHS ARE CURRENTLY CONDUCTING THEMSELVES”

Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on MS NOW’s The Briefing, where he made clear that Democrats will continue to hold ICE, DHS and the Trump administration accountable for the extremism that they are unleashing on American communities.

JEN PSAKI: Joining me now is House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Mike Johnson—I can’t, that clip. I had to watch it a few times because I just can’t believe that that is the message when we’re seeing what we’re seeing with our own eyes happen in Minneapolis. The continuing terror done on communities across that state. What people—I think everybody watching knows this, but Democrats are not in control of the House, they’re not in control of Senate and they’re not in control of the White House. So there’s a question of leverage here. I know you’ve talked about, and others in Democratic leadership, the CHC, the Progressive Caucus, have all talked about accountability. And I want to talk about those measures. But what leverage do you see you have right now to try to force Republicans to make this an issue in the funding debate?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, one thing that’s going to be important is to continue to point out how outrageous it is that Republicans are trying to justify what ICE is doing in American communities, on American streets and to American citizens. ICE just killed, in cold blood, Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old American citizen, who’s left behind three children. This is unreal stuff. It’s unconscionable, it’s unacceptable and it’s un-American. So continuing to ratchet up the intensity around public pressure and sentiment will be important to push a handful of our Republican colleagues to join us to make sure that ICE actually is conducting itself like every other law enforcement agency in America. That means no masks, that means a requirement that there are body cameras when ICE is engaging in this activity across the country, that means a warrant requirement, that means making sure that ICE can’t just bully and bombard and steamroll and storm houses of worship, hospitals, schools, ripping children away from their parents, things that are appropriately horrifying the American people that no other law enforcement agency is permitted to do. And we also have to make sure in law that this notion that ICE has absolute immunity is nothing that can ever be vindicated in an American court of law because part of the challenge here is if you have people in the Trump administration saying that it doesn’t matter what you do you will not be held accountable, then there are going to be some bad apples who are out there toting guns, engaging in this lawless behavior, who will feel like they have a free hand to do whatever they want. Governor Walz is right, however, they are going to be held accountable.

JEN PSAKI: I mean, it is infuriating to watch this officer. Seemingly, it’s hard to see what the path to accountability is there. Let me ask you, you know, I’m sure you get lots of calls to your office. I know a lot of people do. You just outlined a number of those restrictions you’d like to see on ICE. Masks, it’s crazy that they get to wear masks. Warrants, they should have to offer those. More training. You’ve listed more than that. There is a growing movement, not 50%, of people who want to abolish ICE. There is certainly some kind of political backlash of that five years ago, but explain, you’re trying to win back the House, you’re trying to become the Speaker. Why is that not the answer right now?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, listen, I think clearly significant reform needs to take place as it relates to the manner in which ICE is conducting itself. ICE is using taxpayer dollars to brutalize American citizens and to unnecessarily and viciously target law abiding immigrant families and communities. The whole premise that Donald Trump sold to the American people was that this immigration enforcement activity was going to target violent felons. It’s not targeting violent felons. They’re targeting American families, brutalizing American communities. And now, as we’ve seen, killing American citizens. This is out of control and the American people aren’t going to stand for it. So certainly we need massive reform to the way in which ICE and the Department of Homeland Security are currently conducting themselves. The American people are going to demand it and Democrats are going to press for it.

JEN PSAKI: We’re certainly seeing that out there with protests and with people marching in the streets. I want to turn to healthcare because it was just a week ago—it feels like we’re in some sort of version of dog years, I don’t even know how you feel right now—that you helped lead the effort to pass a three-year extension of the ACA subsidies that so many millions of Americans are relying on. We’ve already seen 1.4 million people opt out of healthcare and it’s going to be more as they see what the costs are. Right now there is a—I’m going to call it, you can call it what you want—a phony negotiation over in the Senate. They’re not really doing it. Senator Thune could just bring up this three-year extension and get a vote. And who knows, maybe he’d get the votes. Why is he not doing that, and what can be done to press him to do that?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well we decisively, as you pointed out, passed a three-year extension of the Affordable Care Act tax credits to ensure that tens of millions of everyday Americans, middle class Americans and working class Americans don’t experience dramatically increased health insurance premiums that would, in some instances, bankrupt them or certainly prevent them from being able to go see a doctor when they need one. And all 213 House Democrats were joined by 17 Republicans because the people are with us on this issue. We know over in the Senate that a majority of Senators, 47 Democrats and four Republicans, support extending the Affordable Care Act tax credits for three years in a clean extension. And so the obstacle right now is that John Thune and conservative Republicans, the MAGA extremists, they just want to rip healthcare away from the American people. There’s no other explanation. This is the same group of folks that in the One Big Ugly Bill enacted the largest cut to Medicaid in American history. They also ripped food from the mouths of hungry children, seniors and veterans. And they did all of that so they could reward their billionaire donors. And that seems to be the only thing that they care about other than constantly bending the knee to Donald Trump and his extremism.

JEN PSAKI: Just to restate, the overwhelming majority of the public supports an extension of these subsidies and the right wing of the caucus in the Senate Republicans wants to put in conservative abortion restrictions, which means John Thune—he’s dealing with that portion of his caucus. I don’t know, he could bring it up still and there still might be the votes. But that is what’s going on, which is really crazy given millions of people are relying on this right now. Leader Jeffries, thank you so much for being here.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you.

JEN PSAKI: I really appreciate it. So much to discuss. Thank you again.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Good to see you.

Interview can be watched here.

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Kean Announces Annual ‘Valentines for First Responders’ Program

(January 14, 2026) LEBANON BOROUGH, NJ – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) announced the launch of his annual “Valentines for First Responders” program. Residents, schools, and local youth organizations are invited to create handmade Valentine’s Day cards to express gratitude to first responders in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District.

The deadline to submit completed Valentine’s Day cards is Friday, February 6, 2026. Cards may be dropped off or mailed to the Lebanon Borough District Office at 100 Corporate Drive, Suite 106, Lebanon, NJ 08833. The homemade valentines will be delivered to local police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel during the week of Valentine’s Day.

“Our first responders sacrifice so much to keep our families and communities safe,” said Congressman Kean. “The Valentines for First Responders program gives us the opportunity to thank them and share gratitude on behalf of the people they serve across the Seventh District. These valentines are a small gesture that represents our deep appreciation for all that they do.”

Residents interested in participating or seeking additional information about the program can contact Congressman Kean’s District office at (908) 547-3307.

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Kelly touts "STEEL Act" during Congressional Steel Caucus hearing with industry leaders

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, during the annual "State of Steel" hearing hosted by the Congressional Steel Caucus, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) called on Congress to strengthen and enhance international trade laws to protect American steel producers and American jobs.

Kelly highlighted the Strengthening Trade Enforcement and Evasion Limitations (STEEL) Act, bipartisan legislation he leads with Rep. Chris Deluzio (D-PA) that will enhance trade enforcement legislation. The legislation also aims to prevent "dumping," an unfair trade practice by foreign nations that sell subsidized goods in the United States and devalue the prices of American steel and other domestic products.

"We have a lot of legislation that is signed into law. The problem is the enforcement," Kelly said. "When I see what has happened to our steel industry and the market share we have lost to unfair competition globally, what the hell are we doing? We cannot afford to lose market share to people to game the whole system. It's unfair competition."

You can watch a clip of Kelly's conversation with leaders of Cleveland-Cliffs, U.S. Steel, and other steel producers here.


Kennedy Condemns ICE Killing of U.S. Citizen Renee Nicole Good, Calls for Noem’s Resignation

In Wake of Tragedy Kennedy Calls for Noem’s Impeachment if She Refuses to Resign

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) condemned the killing of Renee Nicole Good, a U.S. citizen who was shot and killed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minnesota last week. Kennedy expressed outrage over the tragedy and underscored the devastating impact on Ms. Good’s family, including her three children.

“President Trump and Kristi Noem have created an Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency with no oversight, no chain of command, no standards, and no restraint. They have created a lawless culture with no accountability, and a mother being shot at point-blank range is the consequence,” said Congressman Kennedy. “That is not law enforcement. It is state violence. The Department of Homeland Security was created to protect the American people and defend our nation against terror. Under Secretary Noem, it has become a source of terror for the American people themselves.”

(Congressman Kennedy’s full remarks here.)

Kennedy, a member of the Committee on Homeland Security, argued that the brazen and reckless immigration policies advanced by the Trump administration and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem have fueled fear, chaos, and danger in communities across the country. Kennedy outlined a pattern of conduct by ICE that includes unnecessary violence, masked and militarized raids in civilian neighborhoods, and enforcement actions lacking transparency or oversight. He emphasized that these practices are far from stated promises to prioritize serious criminal threats and instead have targeted individuals with no criminal record, including parents, workers, and community members.

Kennedy framed the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good as a warning to all Americans about what happens when federal law enforcement is emboldened to operate without clear standards, meaningful oversight, or accountability. Kennedy made clear that these failures are the direct result of deliberate policy decisions made at the highest levels of the Trump Administration. He underscored that misdirecting security resources, militarizing ICE, and blocking congressional oversight does not make communities safer but instead erodes constitutional rights and public trust. Kennedy called for an independent investigation and demanded accountability from leadership, calling on Secretary Noem to resign immediately or be impeached. He emphasized that border security and public safety can and must be achieved without treating neighbors as enemies or abandoning the constitutional principles that protect every American.

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Rep. Mullin Seeks Impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Noem Following ICE Killing Unarmed Mother

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Mullin (CA-15) has joined 70 Members of Congress in formally introducing articles of impeachment against Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

“I’ve been hearing from many neighbors who are horrified by recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions, and the harm the Trump Administration’s policies are causing to our country.

Like many of you, I was appalled by ICE’s killing of Renee Nicole Good, an unarmed 37-year-old Minneapolis mother of three. Her children have lost a mother as a direct result of the inhumane and chaotic ICE deployments to American cities. I firmly condemn these politically motivated deployments and any federal actions that are taken with reckless disregard for human life. That’s why I support the resolution just introduced to impeach Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

The Administration’s lies and gaslighting of the American people in response to ICE’s actions are deeply irresponsible and unacceptable. The public deserves transparency and thorough investigations by federal and state officials. I join many of my colleagues in demanding that swift action is taken, all those involved are investigated and prosecuted to the full extent of the law, and that immediate changes are made to ensure transparency and protect our communities. We must hold Trump and ICE accountable.

I am pushing for several pieces of legislation to rein in ICE, including bills that would help ensure those who break the law can be prosecuted, prohibit federal agents from wearing face masks to conceal their identity, and require federal law enforcement to wear body cameras and visibly identify themselves and their agency,” Mullin said.

The Constitution gives the U.S. House sole power of impeachment, and Mullin is an original cosponsor of Rep. Robin Kelly’s resolution. The three articles of impeachment include:

1. Obstruction of Congress

Secretary Noem violated her constitutional oath and refused to comply with the law that prohibits the Department of Homeland Security from preventing a Member of Congress from entering a DHS facility used to detain undocumented immigrants.

There have been several cases in which members of Congress have attempted to enter U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities to conduct oversight, but were denied, despite following Secretary Noem’s unlawful seven-day notice. These incidents have occurred in California, Texas, Colorado, Illinois, New York, Virginia and Washington.

2. Violation of Public Trust

Secretary Noem has repeatedly violated the Immigration and Nationality Act, the First and Fourth Amendments of the United States Constitution. She’s also broken due process by directing ICE to conduct warrantless arrests and use violence against US citizens and lawful individuals.

Federal agents have used excessive force, in some cases injuring or killing, residents across the country. To date, ICE and other DHS agents have detained over 170 U.S. citizens, sometimes for hours or days without warrants or legal justification. These dangerous actions have continued in cities across the country, including in Minneapolis, where Renee Nicole Good was shot and killed without justification.

3. Self-Dealing

Secretary Noem has misused her position for personal gain while inappropriately using $200 million taxpayer dollars to fund an ad campaign for ICE recruitment. She bypassed the normal competitive bidding process to award a contract to a firm called Strategy Group. Strategy Group was formed just days before the award and is run by the husband of senior DHS official Tricia McClaughlin, a close friend of Secretary Noem.

Read the full text of articles of impeachment here.

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Rep. Kevin Kiley–Backed Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act Signed Into Law

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, President Trump signed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act into law, legislation proudly supported by Congressman Kevin Kiley (R-CA).

Rep. Kiley helped pass the bill through the Education & Workforce Committee and supported the bill during a Floor debate.

Under previous regulations, schools participating in the National School Lunch Program were required to follow the most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which limited milk options to fat-free or low-fat varieties. These restrictions were enforced through U.S. Department of Agriculture regulations.

The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act updates those requirements by allowing schools to offer a full range of milk options, including whole, reduced-fat, low-fat, and fat-free milk. The law also permits schools to serve either organic or nonorganic milk.

“Whatever basis in science or public health might have once supported these restrictions has long since been debunked,” Rep. Kiley said. “Kids deserve access to the healthiest options available in their school cafeterias. I’m glad we’re finally correcting this mistake.”

The law will support hardworking dairy farmers across the country and promote healthy meals for American children.

Click here to read more about the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act.

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Krishnamoorthi Condemns Iranian Regime’s Mass Killings, Stands With Protesters

WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi today issued the following statement:

“I stand with the Iranian people against a regime that has answered peaceful protest with brutal repression and mass killings. I believe the U.S. should do everything possible through its diplomacy and economic power to support the movement opposing the violent and repressive Iranian government. History has shown, however, that foreign military intervention and reckless threats of force often empower hardliners and undermine those working for change. Supporting the brave people of Iran is better served through forceful diplomacy and coordinated international pressure rather than direct military involvement.”


Krishnamoorthi Condemns Trump Administration’s Move to Eliminate Funding for Lifesaving Addiction Treatment and Mental-Health Care

WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) issued the following statement in response to reports that the Trump administration, through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), has sent letters abruptly terminating federal grants that fund addiction treatment, overdose prevention, and mental-health services nationwide:

“This administration’s decision to wipe out anti-addiction and mental-health grants overnight is an act of staggering cruelty that will cost lives. These funds keep overdose prevention, crisis response, and recovery services running in communities every day, and cutting them means clinics closing, naloxone disappearing, and families left with nowhere to turn. At the height of a national overdose and mental-health crisis, this administration is knowingly ripping away lifesaving care—and I will fight to reverse these cuts and restore every dollar.”


Krishnamoorthi Opposes State Department Funding Bill That Fails to Restrain Trump, Including in Venezuela

WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) voted against the fiscal year 2026 State Department funding bill and released the following statement explaining his vote:

“I voted against this bill because it puts no guardrails on the Trump Administration’s reckless use of taxpayer funds to escalate military action or unilaterally enable civilian occupation abroad. That’s why I introduced the No Occupation of Venezuela Act—to make clear that no president can use federal funds to bypass Congress’s constitutional role in authorizing the use of force. Congress cannot allow end-runs around the Constitution.”


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wednesday, January 14

Congressman Langworthy Secures $1 Million for Town of Ellicott Water Service Extension to Deliver Safe Drinking Water

WASHINGTON, D.C.—January 14, 2026…Congressman Nick Langworthy announced today that he has secured $1 million in federal funding for the Town of Ellicott Water Service Extension Project, a critical infrastructure investment that will bring clean, reliable public water service to the Fluvanna neighborhood by extending municipal water lines from the City of Jamestown.

The project will replace unsafe private wells with a regulated municipal water system, addressing long-standing public health concerns. Local assessments have shown that approximately 40 percent of existing wells in the area are unsafe for human consumption, making access to clean drinking water an urgent and essential need.

“This is about protecting families and ensuring access to safe drinking water,” said Congressman Langworthy. “This investment provides a permanent solution to a long-time problem, guaranteeing that every resident will have access to reliable, safe, quality water. I’m proud to deliver this funding for the taxpayers of Ellicott and I will always fight to ensure Western New York and the Southern Tier get its fair share of federal resources.”

In addition to improving water quality, the project will significantly enhance fire protection, reduce long-term environmental and health risks, and strengthen the community’s economic stability. Reliable public water service is also essential for maintaining property values, supporting future development, and ensuring the long-term vitality of the Town of Ellicott.

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Larson Files Articles of Impeachment Against U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi L. Noem

“After a week of lies, cover-ups, and excessive force against peaceful protesters across the country – including the execution of an American citizen, enough is enough,” said Larson. “Today, I joined my colleagues to file articles of impeachment against Kristi Noem. On her watch, ICE has been transformed into President Trump’s secret police force. It was never a question of if, but when, these authoritarian abuses of the public trust would end in bloodshed. Secretary Noem has lost the trust of the American people and must face accountability for her failed leadership. I am in full support of impeachment proceedings that include a full, transparent investigation into the lawlessness occurring on her watch.”

These articles come after an ICE agent executed an American citizen, Renee Nicole Good, in Minneapolis on her watch, and a federal vehicle struck a protester in Hartford. Noem has continuously lied to the American people about these incidents, falsely labeling Good as a “domestic terrorist” with no evidence or investigation. Larson has also vowed to introduce legislation to stop ICE from operating in communities without coordination with state and local law enforcement.


Larson Votes to Support Small Businesses, Protect Elections from Interference

“Today’s vote proves to the American people that our system can work when lawmakers work together – and Congress can act to stop this president’s attacks on workers and small businesses,” said Larson. “Once again, Democrats on the Appropriations Committee, led by Rosa DeLauro, defeated every culture war attack Republicans put forward and rebuked President Trump’s illegal attempts to wrestle control of the federal budget. Congress is entrusted with the power of the purse, not the President. This bill supports critical programs to grow our economy that Trump and his ‘DOGE’ tried to eliminate and invests in election security to protect our democracy from unlawful interference. As we continue to negotiate government funding, our Republican colleagues must remember they’re here to serve the citizens who duly elected them, not Donald Trump.”


Lawler Votes for Funding Package to Strengthen National Security, Drive Economic Growth

Washington, D.C. – 1/14/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Financial Services and General Government and National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2026, a bipartisan appropriations package that funds core government operations, the Treasury Department, and U.S. foreign policy programs.

“Families and small businesses in New York deserve a federal government that is focused, accountable, and serious about security. This bill moves us in that direction by prioritizing taxpayers, investors, and public safety. Additionally, at a time of growing global threats, this legislation keeps our commitments to key allies, counters our adversaries, and maintains strong funding for law enforcement and embassy security, while still reducing overall spending,” said Congressman Lawler.

Key provisions of this package benefiting the Hudson Valley include:

Modernizing the Internal Revenue Service to better serve taxpayers while cracking down on fraudsters and tax cheats.

Ensuring the Securities and Exchange Commission has the resources it needs to expand access to capital and protect everyday investors.

Identifying underutilized federal office space to reduce costs and cut waste across the federal government.

Maintaining funding to counter fentanyl trafficking, including $1.4 billion for International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement programs.

Prioritizing core diplomatic functions, such as reducing passport backlogs and protecting U.S. embassies and personnel overseas.

Sustaining strong support for critical partners like Israel, Jordan, and Taiwan while countering adversaries including the Chinese Communist Party, Iran, and drug cartels.

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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Rep. Mike Levin Introduces New Bill to Stop Data Centers from Driving Up Electricity Prices for Consumers

Washington, D.C.—Today, Reps. Mike Levin (CA-49) and Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) introduced the Stopping Hikes In Electricity from Large Load Demands (SHIELD) Act, a new bill to protect families and small businesses from rising electricity bills driven by the explosive growth of data centers nationwide and other large energy users.

The SHIELD Act would update federal utility policy to ensure that massive electricity users, rather than everyday ratepayers, bear the costs of the grid infrastructure they require, while incentivizing large energy consumption facilities to power their operations with zero-emission electricity.

“Families should not be forced to subsidize massive energy costs for billion-dollar companies,” said Rep. Levin. “As we advance the future of artificial intelligence and data centers , we need to ensure that there are clear rules that protect consumers from higher bills and protect our climate from higher emissions. The SHIELD Act makes sure large energy users pay their fair share for grid upgrades and incentivizes them to power their operations with clean, zero-emission electricity, without leaving consumers footing the bill.”

“Back home in Tampa Bay, families and small businesses are already facing rising energy costs and growing demands on our electric grid,” said Rep. Castor. “The SHIELD Act makes sure massive new power-hungry facilities like data centers pay their fair share, instead of shifting costs onto our neighbors, while strengthening the grid and encouraging cleaner, cheaper energy solutions that work for the community.”

U.S. annual electricity consumption hit a record high in 2025 and is expected to continue climbing in 2026, fueled in large part by AI data centers that are expected to more than double their electricity use by 2030. Electricity prices rose an average of 13% nationwide in 2025, putting a strain on family budgets.

Currently, two in three Americans say utility bills are a source of financial stress, three in four are worried about further increases, and 80 million American households are already struggling to pay their utility bills. Without protections, costly grid upgrades can end up being passed on to families and small businesses through higher electricity bills.

To meet surging demand, utilities are investing billions in new transmission and generation infrastructure, costs that are increasingly passed on to consumers. In 2024 alone, utilities in the PJM grid region, the largest grid operator region in the country, passed $4.3 billion in transmission costs to ratepayers, while higher demand drove up energy generation costs by $7.3 billion. There is an urgent need to protect consumers nationwide.

As utilities race to meet growing demand, forecasts have found that about 60% of increased demand will be met by burning fossil fuels, which will increase carbon emissions by 220 million tons.

The SHIELD Act would amend the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act to direct state Public Utilities Commissions (PUCs) to consider implementing two new federal standards related to large load facilities to ensure that residential customers don’t have to subsidize energy costs for these facilities and that they are powered by zero emission electricity:

The first standard would prevent households from paying for grid upgrades for energy intensive large load facilities by creating a separate rate class for large load customers, defined as facilities that use greater than 75MW of electricity. This standard would also include protections to require that costs be paid for by that customer class, including if the facility ceases operations or uses less energy than projected at the time of the upgrade.

The second standard would create an incentive for facilities to use zero-emission electricity by prioritizing demand-side interconnection requests for large load facilities that are powered with zero-emission electricity and employ energy saving measures, such as demand response, energy efficiency, or onsite energy storage.

This bill is endorsed by Evergreen Action and Public Citizen.

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Liccardo Pushes for Oversight  in Paramount’s Hostile Takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Sam Liccardo sent a letter to Paramount Chairman and Chief Executive Officer David Ellison raising unanswered questions about Middle East foreign involvement in the hostile takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD). Paramount’s original offer included $24 billion in financing from Middle East foreign sovereign wealth funds, creating a number of national security concerns related to how Paramount plans to mitigate foreign influence over American media and safeguard Americans’ data.

“A hostile takeover of a major U.S. media company backed by foreign sovereign wealth demands full transparency,” said Liccardo. “No American wants foreign governments lurking behind the screen—quietly accessing personal data or influencing what families watch every night. That is the risk posed by this deal. Paramount should submit to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) immediately and assure the public that they're safe from nefarious foreign actors entering their living rooms."

This marks the second letter from Congressman Sam Liccardo raising national security concerns about a sovereign wealth fund controlled by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman who directed, according to published U.S. intelligence agencies’ reports, the brutal homicide of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi in an effort to silence dissent. More recent reporting has also highlighted PIF-backed luxury developments undertaken in partnership with the Trump family, further calling into question the strategic motivations behind Saudi investments in high-influence American institutions, including national media companies.

Liccardo’s December letter—authored alongside Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley—was sent to Warner Bros. Discovery President David Zaslav.

Liccardo questioned CFIUS official Chris Pilkerton during a House Financial Services hearing titled Evaluating the Operations of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States. Pilkerton agreed that a deal of this nature could be subject to CFIUS review and agreed to grant Liccardo a confidential briefing on their involvement.


Lucas Highlights Need to Add Ag Secretary to CFIUS

Washington, DC – Today, the House Financial Services Committee held a hearing entitled, “Evaluating the Operations of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS)”. Chris Pilkerton, the recently sworn in Assistant Secretary for Investment Security at the Department of Treasury, was the invited witness.

Congressman Frank D. Lucas spoke in support of his bill to add the Secretary of Agriculture as a permanent member to CFIUS in order to better protect America’s agricultural security.

SELECTED REMARKS:

Lucas: “The issue of ownership of key agriculture equities like land and infrastructure by foreign adversaries has continued to raise alarm bells across the country.

That’s why I introduced the bipartisan Agricultural Risk Review Act – to add the Secretary of Agriculture as a permanent member to CFIUS for any transaction relating to the Ag industry and to require CFIUS to initiate reviews of threats notified by USDA.

Mr. Pilkerton – can you provide Treasury’s perspective? How does CFIUS benefit from the Secretary of Agriculture’s input? Would it be helpful for the Secretary [of Agriculture] to be a permanent member for transactions related to Ag?”

Mr. Pilkerton: “Secretary Rollins often says food security is national security, and I certainly agree with that.”

-Chris Pilkerton, Assistant Secretary for Investment Security, U.S. Department of the Treasury

BACKGROUND

The Agricultural Risk Review Act adds the Secretary of Agriculture as a permanent member on the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), the interagency committee charged with reviewing the national security implications of foreign investments in the economy.

The bill also requires CFIUS to consider referrals from USDA for reportable agricultural land transactions.

The Agricultural Risk Review Act passed the House in June of last year.


Lucas: The Fed should stick to “conventional monetary policy tools”

Washington, DC – Today, the Task Force on Monetary Policy, Treasury Market Resilience, and Economic Prosperity held a hearing entitled, “Striking the Right Balance Sheet”.

As Chair of the Task Force, Congressman Frank D. Lucas (OK-03) opened the hearing by highlighting the Fed’s increasing use of quantitative easing, and insisting it should rely instead on conventional monetary policy tools in order to avoid unintended consequences, such as inflation.

REMARKS AS PREPARED:

“Our focus today is on the Fed’s balance sheet – a record of its assets and liabilities that demonstrate its operations.

The Fed’s balance sheet has undergone dramatic changes in the past 15 years – growing from less than $1 trillion in 2008, or 6% of GDP, to almost $9 trillion in 2022, or 35% of GDP.

In 2008, the Fed moved from a corridor system to a floor system necessarily demanding an increase in the quantity of reserves on its balance sheet.

Despite that change, the Fed has continued to express the view that reserves should be at “the smallest levels” consistent with the effective implementation of monetary policy.

We haven’t always seen the Fed stick to that view, instead using its balance sheet to provide economic stimulus – not merely as a means to control rates.

Since 2008, the Fed has engaged in four rounds of large-scale asset purchases, or QE, with its balance sheet standing at six and a half trillion today.

Yet, the academic literature shows mixed results on the effectiveness of QE at economic support. While the jury is out on the benefits of QE, we do know that it raises risks of inflation and market distortion.

The Fed should rely on conventional monetary policy tools under its ample reserves regime and avoid market operations that may have unintended and lasting consequences.

Additionally, the Fed should clearly articulate under what conditions it uses its balance sheet for economic stimulus, economic contraction, and policy implementation in the future. This is particularly important now as the Fed engages in reserve management purchases.

Finally, it may be tempting to allow the news of the day to distract us from the purpose of today’s hearing. I will continue to emphasize that the independence of the Fed is critical in ensuring it makes sound interest rate decisions that are essential to favorable economic outcomes.

We’d do well to remember that decisions made now have lasting implications for not just the next Fed chair, but the next ten Fed chairs.

That said, let’s focus our discussion today on the proper use of the balance sheet and its impact on monetary policy implementation and Treasury market functioning.”

WITNESSES:

Dr. Jim Clouse, Senior Fellow, Anderson Institute for Finance & Economics

Dr. Bill Nelson, Executive Vice President, Chief Economist and Head of Research, Bank Policy Institute

Dr. Allison Schrager, Senior Fellow, Manhattan Institute

Dr. Bill English, Eugene F. Williams, Jr. Professor of the Practice, Yale School of Management

BACKGROUND:

The Task Force on Monetary Policy, Treasury Market Resilience, and Economic Prosperity was created at the beginning of the 119th Congress.

The Task Force is charged with examining issues related to monetary policy, the fundamental role that U.S. Treasury debt plays in the economy, and the resilience of the Treasury market. The Task Force will also examine the Federal Reserve Act and how economic growth and price stability affect the financial wellbeing of all Americans.

You can find more information on the Task Force here.

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Congresswoman Nancy Mace Calls For The Harshest Punishment For Child Predators

CHARLESTON, S.C. (Jan. 14, 2026) – Congresswoman Nancy Mace (SC-01) released the following statement regarding the federal government's sentencing recommendation for former South Carolina State Representative RJ May, who pleaded guilty to distributing child sexual abuse material:

"RJ May admitted to distributing 220 child sexual abuse videos 479 times to over 100 offenders across 18 states and six countries. Federal prosecutors called him a 'hub' for child exploitation who 'showed no mercy toward the children he exploited.' He deserves no mercy in return.

"May stood on the floor of our State House, voting to punish the very crimes he was perpetrating in the shadows. He looked constituents in the eye while facilitating the abuse of innocent children. This level of depravity and hypocrisy demands the absolute maximum penalty allowed by law.

"Child predators like May forfeit their right to leniency. They forfeit their right to compassion. They forfeit their place in civilized society. South Carolina’s justice system has failed victims for far too long by treating these heinous crimes with unacceptable softness. Every child whose innocence was stolen by May, and predators like him, deserves more than our sympathy, they deserve a system which ensures their abusers never see freedom again. Anything less is a betrayal of justice itself.”

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Rep. Nancy Mace: Alan Wilson Says He's Too Busy Not Prosecuting Pedophiles To Answer Questions

CHARLESTON, S.C. (Jan. 14, 2026) – Today, Congresswoman Nancy Mace demanded answers from South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson after he not only refused to comply with her Congressional office’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request regarding the lack of prosecution of pedophiles and child predators in South Carolina, but threatened to take her to court instead of providing the documents.

Congresswoman Nancy Mace’s Congressional office submitted a second FOIA request to Attorney General Alan Wilson's office requesting basic records on how his office prosecutes pedophiles and child predators. Instead of providing existing data and documents already in his possession, Wilson refused and made the remarkable claim complying would “shut down the Office's Internet Crimes Against Children and Special Prosecution sections for months.”

Wilson's January 13th letter to Rep. Mace stated: "Spending so much time on your request would cause hundreds of cases to be delayed and would effectively shut down the Office's Internet Crimes Against Children and Special Prosecution sections for months."

"There's just one problem: those cases are already delayed because the Attorney General isn’t prosecuting them,” said Congresswoman Mace. “Wilson isn’t prosecuting pedophiles and isn’t producing documents. So what exactly would be 'shut down'?"

What Wilson Refused to Provide

Rep. Mace's December 10, 2025 FOIA request sought straightforward information on cases involving child pornography or sexual exploitation of minors referred for prosecution since January 1, 2019:

Original charges referred for prosecution

Charges dropped in plea agreements

Charges defendants pled guilty to

Sentences imposed (including suspended sentences)

Terms of probation

Other conditions (sex offender registry, restitution, etc.)

Correspondence related to plea agreements

Wilson's office directed Rep. Mace to search public court records herself for the first six categories of information, refusing to compile basic prosecution data his office already tracks, and already has compiled.

For the seventh request, correspondence about plea deals, Wilson claimed compliance would be "a nearly impossible undertaking" which would cause "hundreds of cases to be delayed" and constitute "an unconscionable abuse of FOIA."

Lawsuit Threat Over "Improper" Request

Rather than provide the information, Wilson's office threatened legal action against Rep. Mace, claiming the request was "unduly burdensome" and asserting it "does not benefit the State or crime victims."

"Let me set Alan Wilson straight: asking how the Office of Attorney General prosecutes pedophiles directly benefits crime victims," Rep. Mace said. "The only people who benefit from secrecy are the pedophiles getting sweetheart deals, and the Attorney General who granted them."

Rep. Mace demands Wilson to immediately “release the files” and give South Carolina children and parents the transparency they deserve from an Attorney General whose job is supposed to be protecting children, not pedophiles.

Earlier this year, Rep. Mace, through a FOIA, discovered Wilson and his Office, dropped 93% of cases against pedophiles in just one county in South Carolina. She’s seeking information on other counties about other cases taxpayers have a right to know and understand. As the benefactor of federal funding, Wilson should come clean. Anything else is a cover up.

See the FOIA response from Attorney General Alan Wilson’s Office Here:

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Congressman Mackenzie Co-Sponsors Legislation to Crack Down on Congressional Stock Trading

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (PA-07), representing the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos, has signed on as an original co-sponsor to the Stop Insider Trading Act. This legislation, which was introduced on Monday, January 12th, prohibits members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children from purchasing securities issued by publicly traded companies. The bill further requires that, in order to sell securities, members must provide public notice 7-14 days prior. Violators will incur a minimum fine of $2,000 or 10% of the transaction value (whichever is greater).

“Members of Congress are sent to Washington to serve their constituents, not themselves,” said Congressman Ryan Mackenzie. “The American people are tired of watching their representatives abuse their offices for profit. That’s why the Stop Insider Trading Act cracks down on these practices — establishing a clear ban on the purchase of stocks by members of Congress.”

Congressman Mackenzie has been a longstanding proponent of reining in congressional stock trading. Near the start of his term, Congressman Mackenzie co-sponsored the Transparent Representation Upholding Service and Trust (TRUST) in Congress Act. These actions follow through on the Congressman’s past commitment to take action against congressional stock trading.

Text of the legislation is available here.

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Magaziner Statement on Trump Administration’s Cancellation of Mental Health and Addiction Grants

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) released the following statement following reports that the Trump Administration issued termination letters for up to $2 billion in grants for mental health and addiction services including to Rhode Island providers. “The overdose crisis continues to threaten the lives of many Rhode Islanders. It is unconscionable that the Trump Administration intends to cut funding from programs that save the lives of those struggling with addiction. I will fight back against these cuts to lifesaving programs that support people struggling with addiction, mental illness, and homelessness.”


Díaz-Balart Delivers Stronger National Security, Less Waste with Passage of FY26 Appropriations Minibus

January 14, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Vice Chair of the House Committee on Appropriations and Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP), celebrated the House passage of his Fiscal Year 2026 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Act, which was passed a key component of a legislative minibus that also included the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act. The NSRP legislation delivers a historic16% spending reduction – the largest of any appropriations bill this fiscal year.

“I commend Chairman Tom Cole’s leadership in restoring regular order to the appropriations process and protecting hard-earned U.S. taxpayer dollars and thank my colleagues for advancing this third tranche of full-year appropriations bills that deliver real solutions for the American people. These bills cut waste, fraud, and abuse, ensure accountability and efficiency, combat drug trafficking, and strengthen U.S. national security, all while advancing President Trump’s America First agenda.

As chairman of the subcommittee responsible for funding America’s foreign policy and national security priorities, I am proud that my NSRP Fiscal Year 2026 bill delivers the largest spending reduction of any appropriations bill this year, reducing spending by 16%, while strengthening U.S. national security and prioritizing American interests.

Under President Trump’s leadership, American strength and credibility on the world stage are back. This legislation advances the President’s Peace Through Strength vision by strengthening mutually beneficial partnerships that lead to economic prosperity for the United States and our hemisphere, standing firmly with our allies, confronting malign actors that threaten our security, combating drug trafficking, and controlling irresponsible and dangerous migration.”

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

FISCAL YEAR 2026 NATIONAL SECURITY, DEPARTMENT OF STATE, AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS BILL

The National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP) Appropriations Act provides a total discretionary allocation of $50.014 billion, a nearly $9.3 billion cut (16%) below the Fiscal Year 2025 enacted level. The unprecedented reduction of spending in this measure codifies the FY25 rescissions and cuts even more, while reflecting the priorities of the America First agenda.

Even with the cuts, the NSRP bill maintains robust funding for our allies like Israel, Jordan, Egypt, and Taiwan, and counters adversaries like the Communist People’s Republic of China (PRC), Iran, Cuba, and drug cartels – including those designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations. The bill removes woke Biden-era poison pills and supports President Trump’s vision to refocus and realign foreign policy to make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous.

Champions America First Foreign Policy by:

Reprioritizing funding in support of United States national security.

Creating the America First Opportunity Fund to ensure the Secretary of State has the flexibility to quickly respond to unforeseen opportunities in an effort to advance the America First foreign policy agenda.

Supporting President Trump’s America First foreign policy by eliminating wasteful spending on DEI or woke programming, climate change mandates, and divisive gender ideologies.

Prioritizing funding and policies to combat the flow of fentanyl and other illicit drugs into the United States to help save American lives.

Putting American businesses first by prioritizing diplomatic engagement to favorably resolve commercial disputes abroad and to promote American business interests overseas.

Refocusing attention on critical diplomatic functions, such as addressing passport applications and ensuring the safety and security of our embassies.

Protects life, supports American values, and enhances our standing in the world by:

Protecting long-standing pro-life provisions as well as enhancing oversight and transparency over program implementation to ensure American taxpayer dollars will not fund abortions.

Increasing support for religious freedom programs and demanding religious freedom protections for faith-based organizations.

Holding foreign governments and bad actors accountable for their persecution of people of faith, including restricting assistance to Nigeria until measurable actions are taken to protect Christian communities suffering from violence due to their beliefs.

Confronting human trafficking by prohibiting funding for countries and organizations that continue benefiting from the human trafficking of Cuban medical doctors, while directing the Secretary of State to pull visas for officials involved in Cuban doctors’ trafficking.

Advancing free speech and prohibiting censorship by banning programs that violate the free speech rights of American citizens.

Bolsters U.S. national security and border protections by:

Providing unwavering support for Israel by including no less than $3.3 billion in Foreign Military Financing Program funds.

Upholding longstanding partnerships with our key security allies in the Middle East, Israel, Egypt, and Jordan.

Including $300 million for the Foreign Military Financing Program for Taiwan to strengthen deterrence across the Taiwan Strait, and up to $2 billion in loans and loan guarantees for such purpose.

Fully funding the Countering PRC Influence Fund at $400 million.

Providing $1.8 billion for United States national security interests in the Indo-Pacific and to counter the PRC’s malign influence.

Denying the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) access to U.S.-backed resources:

Requires opposition to multilateral development bank lending for China.

Requires opposition to increased shareholding for China within the multilateral development banks.

Prohibits funds from being used to repay loans to China.

Furthers cooperation between the Department of State and War in countering foreign talent programs posing a threat to national security.

Prohibiting funding for programs that facilitate and encourage migration toward the United States border.

Safeguards American taxpayer dollars and preserves core functions by:

Prioritizing fiscal sanity with over $9 billion in cuts.

Enhancing oversight and transparency requirements to ensure American taxpayer funds are not used by ineffective or fraudulent organizations.

Supporting efforts to reduce duplication, eliminate bureaucracy and silos, and streamline foreign policy under the direction of the Secretary of State to support a nimble and effective Department.

Eliminating funding for Biden-era executive orders on climate, gender, DEI, and extraneous or irrelevant programs that run contrary to an America First foreign policy agenda.

Including a new directive to the Secretary of State to establish a responsible strategy for transitioning PEPFAR programs off United States assistance.

Consolidating and reducing the number of accounts to facilitate efficient, strategic allocation of funds for programs that support United States national security interests.

Standing with our friend and ally, Israel by:

Providing unwavering support for Israel by fully funding security assistance for Israel at $3.3 billion, consistent with the United States-Israel Memorandum of Understanding.

Prohibiting U.S. funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).

Prohibiting funding for the United Nations International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem and Israel.

Prohibiting any funding from being used to move the U.S. Embassy to the State of Israel to a location other than Jerusalem.

Continuing conditions and restrictions to ensure taxpayer funds are not getting into the hands of terrorists or paying prisoners for acts of terrorism (pay-to-slay).

Including language to ensure full compliance with the Taylor Force Act.

Prohibiting funding from being used to revoke the designation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a Foreign Terrorist Organization.

Extending Israel’s access to defense articles in the War Reserves Stockpile and loan guarantees for Israel.

Promotes freedom and democracy while safeguarding U.S. taxpayer dollars by:

Requiring that foreign assistance be directed to countries in the Western Hemisphere that act as allies and execute foreign and domestic policies which are consistent with United States values and security interests, including Argentina, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, Paraguay, and Peru.

Promoting freedom in the Western Hemisphere:

$25 million for democracy programs for Cuba;

$50 million for democracy programs for Venezuela;

$15 million for democracy and religious freedom programs for Nicaragua.

$30 million for the operations of the Office of Cuba Broadcasting (Radio and TV Marti).

Prohibiting funds to prevent the removal of entities from the Cuba Restricted List.

Including limitations on funding for countries and organizations that benefit from the continued trafficking of Cuban medical doctors, and directing the Secretary of State to revoke visas for officials involved in the human trafficking of Cuban doctors.

Prohibiting assistance to individuals or entities that support, finance, or facilitate the operations or commercial activities of the Cuban Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces or Ministry of the Interior, or their affiliates.

Placing strict conditions on funding and requiring a pre-obligation report for Colombia, due to the Petro Administration’s failure to align with United States interests and worsening security conditions, including the assassination of a political opposition leader.

Requiring a report from the Administration about efforts in Haiti and encouraging the incorporation of locally led organizations in their approach to the multi-layered crisis.

A summary of the bill is available here.

Bill text is available here.

Floor Remarks can be watched here.

Joint Explanatory Statement is available here.