Amo Calls Out Republicans’ Health Care Cost Crisis

Providence, RI – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) released the following statement as Congressional Republicans recklessly allowed the expiration of the enhanced premium Affordable Care Act tax credits as of today, January 1, which is raising the cost of health insurance premiums and forcing families into financial insecurity and a lack of essential health care coverage.

“The expiration of the enhanced premium Affordable Care Act tax credits is a moment of crisis for 22 million Americans, including over 41,000 Rhode Islanders, and for our entire health care system. Families are beginning 2026 facing soaring insurance premiums, disrupted or inadequate coverage, and making the very real decision of going without care. From small businesses to early retirees to middle-income families, millions will have to make impossible choices trying to figure out which bills they can afford to pay because Republicans refused to act. These aren’t abstract stories — they’re parents skipping prescriptions, seniors worrying about their next doctor visit, and Rhode Islanders being forced to gamble with their health.

I have fought to stop the Republican health crisis at every turn. I proudly joined all of my Democratic colleagues in signing a discharge petition to compel Speaker Mike Johnson to bring up a vote on a clean, three-year extension of tax credits to lower health care costs. As we look ahead to a vote, I will keep pressing House Republicans to stop playing politics with people’s lives and protect health care for Rhode Islanders.”

Background

Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans failed to stop the expiration of the enhanced premium Affordable Care Act tax credits that help more than 22 million Americans afford their health care, including more than 41,000 Rhode Islanders.

Congressman Amo has fought Trump and Republicans’ attempts to undercut the American health care system at every turn.

In December 2025, Congressman Amo led a town hall with HealthSource RI to answer Rhode Islander’s questions about the Republican health care crisis.

In November 2025, Amo met with Marlene Prichard, a retired teacher and breast cancer survivor, to hear how her health insurance premiums will jump from roughly $800 a month to over $1400 a month in 2026.

Amo joined behavioral and mental health leaders at Butler Hospital in October 2025 to discuss how Republican attacks on health care impede Rhode Islanders’ ability to get care.

In September 2025, Congressman Amo rallied with HealthSource RI Director Lindsay Lang, health care providers, patients, and community leaders at Blackstone Valley Community Health Care to demand Republicans extend cost-saving Affordable Care Act health insurance tax credits that help Americans afford health care.

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Rep. Neguse to Host First In-Person Town Halls of 2026

Lafayette, CO — On Friday, January 2, 2026, Colorado Congressman Joe Neguse will host his first town halls of the new year in Walden and Georgetown. Neguse will be joined by local leaders, provide an update on his work for the people of Colorado’s 2nd District, and take live questions from audience members.

Walden Town Hall

When: Friday, January 2nd, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. MT

Where: River Rock Cafe, 460 Main Street, Walden, CO 80480

RSVP for this community gathering HERE

Georgetown Town Hall

When: Friday, January 2nd, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. MT

Where: Clear Creek County Courthouse, 405 Argentine St., Georgetown, CO 80444

RSVP for this community gathering HERE.

Congressman Neguse has represented Colorado’s 2nd Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2019. Covering more than 12,000 square miles, the district is one of Colorado’s largest and most rural, spanning twelve counties: Boulder, Weld, Clear Creek, Eagle, Gilpin, Grand, Jefferson, Larimer, Summit, Jackson, Routt, and Broomfield.

In 2025 alone, Neguse visited 50 cities and towns across the district. He also hosted 17 in-person town halls—more than every other member of Colorado’s U.S. House delegation combined.

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Norton Introduces Bill to Require Security Cameras at All USPS Facilities

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) introduced a bill on Tuesday to require the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to install security cameras at all USPS facilities to protect USPS employees, customers and property.

“I’ve asked USPS to expand the use of security cameras at postal facilities in the District of Columbia and across the country after learning that a D.C. resident was robbed in the parking lot of a post office in D.C.,” Norton said in the bill’s introductory statement. “The parking lot was not monitored by a security camera. USPS responded that it was not financially feasible to install and maintain security cameras at every postal facility. This bill authorizes appropriations for security cameras at postal facilities.”

Norton’s full introductory statement follows.

Statement of Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton

on the Introduction of the Postal Facilities Security Camera Act

December 30, 2025

Today, I introduce the Postal Facilities Security Camera Act. This bill would require, subject to appropriations, the United States Postal Service (USPS) to install security cameras at each postal facility to protect USPS employees, customers and property. This bill would also authorize appropriations to carry out the camera program.

I asked USPS to expand the use of security cameras at postal facilities in the District of Columbia and across the country after learning that a D.C. resident had been robbed in the parking lot of a post office in D.C. The parking lot was not monitored by a security camera. USPS responded that it was not financially feasible to install and maintain security cameras at every postal facility.

USPS should have security cameras monitoring its facilities—both inside and outside—to protect employees, customers and property. Security cameras can deter crime and assist in arrests and prosecutions.

I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

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Congressman Cohen Announces $3.2 Million in Department of Transportation Grants to the University of Memphis

WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced the University of Memphis will receive two grants totaling more than $3 million from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. One grant, for $2 million, will help bridge gaps in traditional commercial vehicle enforcement monitoring. The other, $1,232,003, will go toward testing passive radio frequency identification sensors to accurately read tire pressure and temperature on trucks.

Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

“I am pleased to see these investments in the safety and efficiency of our commercial truck fleets. Modernizing trucking will save costs and result in greater safety on our highways.”

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Hern Commends Longtime District Director, Announces Staff Changes

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) announced changes to his D.C. and District staffs for the second session of the 119th Congress.

Robert Aery will transition to the role of Senior Advisor and Counsel as he explores part-time professional opportunities outside the office. Aery joined Rep. Hern’s staff in 2018 as District Director and later as Deputy Chief of Staff in 2020.

“Robert has been an essential part of our team, serving the people of Oklahoma’s First District with unwavering commitment and integrity,” said Rep. Hern. “His contributions have been integral to our team’s success over the past seven years. I’m grateful for his leadership and incredibly proud as he moves into this next phase of his career.”

Jefferson Willis – Deputy Chief of Staff

Willis has been on Rep. Hern’s legislative team since 2021, serving as Legislative Director since 2023 and covering the tax portfolio.

Madison Johnston – District Director

Johnston has been on Rep. Hern’s district team since 2022, starting as Field Representative and most recently as the Constituent Services and Outreach Director.

Meg Maykoski – Senior Legislative Assistant

Maykoski joined Rep. Hern’s team in 2023, serving as Legislative Assistant and covering the healthcare portfolio.

Chase Gurey – Legislative Aide

Gurey joined Rep. Hern’s team as Staff Assistant in 2023 and then as Legislative Correspondent.

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April 2025

April was a full month continued our advocacy for economic recovery, healthcare equity, workforce stability, transportation access, and keeping the people of the CNMI informed and engaged. In Washington, I continued pushing for transparency and accountability on critical funding issues, including ongoing efforts to recover PUA and FPUC funds. I shared updates directly with the community to cut through confusion and remain honest about the challenges and realities of our economy and the need for action.

Through my work on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I participated in major markups advancing legislation to strengthen supply chains, secure ports, protect American shipping, and improve transportation safety and oversight. I also raised the CNMI’s unique aviation and infrastructure needs during FAA reauthorization discussions, emphasizing that air service is not a luxury for isolated communities but a lifeline for healthcare, commerce, tourism, and national defense.

Supporting small businesses and workers remained a top priority. I pressed federal agencies on delays impacting CW-1 processing and EVS-TAP, warning that labor shortages and visitor delays directly threaten our recovery. In the House Committee on Small Business, I highlighted barriers that prevent CNMI businesses from accessing investment programs and continued advocating for flexible, common-sense policies that reflect island realities. I also marked my first 100 days in Congress, reflecting on progress made through casework, legislation, and constant engagement.

Healthcare equity was front and center this month. I met with CHCC leadership to address Medicaid funding caps and inequities, expanded outreach with community health providers, and continued advocating for veterans’ access to care and benefits. I also honored service members, veterans, and their families, recognizing the sacrifices they make on behalf of our nation.


August 2025

In August our “From the Hill to the Vill: Community Conversation” series kicked off in Tinian and Rota, providing an opportunity for residents to share their priorities and hear directly about congressional work. These conversations highlighted challenges in federal programs, small business, and economic development, while fostering meaningful dialogue between myself and the people I represent.

We welcomed congressional and military leaders to the Marianas to discuss REFORPAC training, Pacific Air Forces operations, and the strategic importance of the CNMI. Additionally, visits from USDA, NOAA, the Department of Transportation, and State Department passport services allowed for stronger federal partnerships and support for key local initiatives, including energy programs, weather services, tourism recovery, and workforce development.

Local engagement continued through meetings with CNMI departments, nonprofits, and educational institutions. Highlights included visits to Northern Marianas College, DYS Youth Cultural Immersion Camp, the Office on Aging, Great Harvest, CHCC, DLNR, ACME Holdings, 500 Sails, and the CNMI Department of Labor. These interactions reinforced the importance of understanding community needs firsthand—from youth education and healthcare to workforce training, cultural preservation, and elder care.

Federal funding achievements included $682k for weatherization and energy programs, $1.9M for parks and recreation projects, and $4.9M in FAA Airport Improvement Program funds for Rota. Advocacy efforts also focused on extending Pandemic Unemployment Assistance, supporting veterans, and pushing for FIFA recognition for the Marianas.

Finally, attention was given to historical and cultural preservation, including the 80th anniversary of the Hiroshima bombing, Amelia Earhart research, and storytelling projects highlighting World War II survivors’ experiences.


Catch Up with Kim -- January 2, 2025 -- Letter from the Congresswoman
January 2, 2026
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December 2025

Wrapping up the year, this December I joined hearings focused on strengthening the workforce of veterans, advocating for education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship opportunities. I also supported critically disabled veterans through H.R. 6047, ensuring life-sustaining care for those who sacrificed for our country. The “From Service to Startup” hearing highlighted ways to remove barriers for veteran entrepreneurs, including improving access to capital and peer networks.

The National Defense Authorization Act was signed into law, securing CNMI eligibility for military ship repair contracts, authorizing Coast Guard operational studies, and streamlining supplies for military-led community infrastructure projects. I introduced H.R. 6652, the U.S. Vets of the FAS Act, to expand telehealth and pharmacy access for veterans in the Freely Associated States. The Territories Airport Support Act H.R. 6448 and Medicaid Advancement Act H.R. 6690 were introduced to strengthen infrastructure and healthcare funding in the Marianas.

I engaged with international and regional partners, including Members of Vanuatu’s Parliament, advocating for shared economic priorities and Pacific partnerships. CNMI leaders, students, and families visited Washington, D.C., to participate in discussions, Capitol tours, and educational opportunities.


February 2025

February was a demanding and productive month focused on protecting critical programs, strengthening economic recovery, and ensuring the CNMI’s voice is heard in Washington. On behalf of students and families back home, I raised concerns directly with the White House regarding delays in federal funding caused by administrative reviews, including impacts to the NextGen Scholarship Program. I made clear that, while oversight matters, broad federal actions must not disrupt essential programs in the CNMI, where even small funding delays have outsized consequences, and was grateful the delay was removed and our students received the resources they need to grow and succeed.

In Washington, I got into the swing of things with my committee assignments. I got my first round of hearings in the bag and had the chance to advocate for rural and isolated communities like the CNMI, where access to capital and flexible federal programs are essential for entrepreneurs and economic recovery. I also pressed the Department of Transportation to restore air service to the CNMI by writing to Secretary Sean Duffy and reinforcing the urgency of reopening tourism markets that sustain local jobs and businesses.

In House Veterans Affairs Committee hearings, I challenged VA officials on the lack of education benefits, access, and healthcare services for CNMI veterans, emphasizing that geography should never determine the level of care a veteran receives. I also ensured our congressional office fully represents all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.

I welcomed visits from CNMI leaders and partners in Washington, including Northern Marianas College leadership, economic development officials, educators, and business advocates. I also engaged in national security, investment, and territorial policy discussions through IGIA, the State Department, and meetings with federal officials.


January 2025

January marked the beginning of my service representing the people of the CNMI in Washington, DC. On January 3rd, I was sworn in alongside my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives, taking an oath to defend the Constitution and to serve as a strong voice for the CNMI at the federal level. I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and remain committed to advocating for our islands both in Washington, D.C. and at home.

This first month was active and purposeful in DC and at home. In Washington, I was appointed to three House Committees: Transportation and Infrastructure, Veterans Affairs, and Small Business. Through these assignments, I am given the opportunity to advance infrastructure investment, economic recovery, and support for small businesses in the CNMI. I also received appointments to key Transportation and Infrastructure subcommittees covering aviation, highways, transit, emergency management, and economic development.

I joined bipartisan efforts in Congress to lower the cost of living by cosponsoring the Affordable Shipping for All Act, while also advocating for increased maritime border security and federal enforcement in the Marianas. I met with congressional leadership in Washington to raise labor concerns and discuss the future of the CNMI Immigration Transition Program.


July 2025

This July, we celebrated the 79th Liberation Day in the CNMI, honoring those who endured WWII hardships and recognizing the resilience that has carried our people forward. Our communities continue to thrive as part of the American political family, building a future rooted in dignity, culture, and opportunity. We also joined the nation in celebrating Independence Day, reflecting on the freedoms and values we share while preserving our unique identity.

Significant legislative wins came with the House passing H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill, securing permanent increases to the Child Tax Credit, eliminating federal taxes on tips and overtime, and protecting CNMI’s Medicaid and Nutrition Assistance Programs. Additionally, H.R. 4408 (UNITY Act) was introduced to advanced disaster preparedness and veterans’ healthcare in the CNMI, while the Coast Guard Authorization Act moved forward with provisions for feasibility studies on expanding maritime presence in our waters.

We welcomed sixteen CNMI artists who participated in the 2025 Smithsonian Folklife Festival, and held meetings with Youth Congress leaders, NAP staff, and CJPA highlighted ongoing engagement with local programs. Visits from constituents, government finance officers, and APAICS interns reinforced the connection between the CNMI and national institutions.

Economic and infrastructure progress continued with $5.5 million earmarked for Marianas projects, updates on EVS-TAP restoring tourism, and efforts to secure fair tax revenue from DoD activities. Advocacy with SBA, USDA, and the Department of Transportation focused on supporting local businesses, farmers, and international air access.


June 2025

In June I was honored to preside on the House floor as Acting Chair of the Committee of the Whole, managing debate and amendments on major public health legislation addressing the opioid epidemic. I remain grateful to House leadership for entrusting me with this responsibility.

Throughout the month, I pressed for a stronger Coast Guard presence in the CNMI and welcomed progress as our islands are now being considered as a potential home port for future fast response cutters. I also supported bipartisan legislation to improve transportation safety, workforce development, and infrastructure efficiency, including introducing the CNMI Ferry Act to expand federal funding for inter-island transportation.

I advanced the HOME Act and the TRAVEL Act, both designed to expand access to housing support, financial counseling, and specialized medical care for veterans in the territories. We welcomed veteran Randy Johnson to DC to testify on behalf of his fellow veterans and their needs. We also secured important report language in the FY 2026 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs appropriations bill to address biosecurity, port improvements, waste management on Tinian, and expanded VA services for veterans in the Marianas and the Freely Associated States.

In Small Business Committee hearings, I raised the continued recovery challenges facing our tourism-dependent economy and urged the SBA to provide flexible relief and expand access for indigenous entrepreneurs. I also successfully advocated for the restoration of humanities funding after one NEH termination letter was rescinded.

I welcomed students, veterans, educators, advocates, and community leaders to Washington, celebrated student achievements, honored historic milestones like the Battle of Saipan and the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary, and strengthened regional ties across the Pacific.


March 2025

March was an intense month focused on advancing economic recovery, strengthening federal partnerships, and ensuring the CNMI’s priorities remain front and center in Washington. I introduced two major pieces of legislation aimed at supporting our workforce and restoring connectivity across our islands. My first bill, H.R. 1797, would amend the Wagner-Peyser Act to finally include the CNMI and American Samoa, ensuring our workers have access to the same employment services, job training, and labor exchange programs available in the states and other territories. I also introduced H.R. 2132 to make CNMI airports eligible for the Essential Air Service Program, a critical step toward affordable and reliable air transportation for our community.

In Washington, I participated in hearings, committee markups, and meetings with leadership, where bipartisan legislation advanced to support small businesses, prevent fraud, and remove barriers for entrepreneurs with disabilities. I also welcomed visits from CNMI educators, cultural leaders, students, business advocates, and regional partners, strengthening collaboration on education funding, workforce development, arts and culture, and economic diversification.

I met directly with CNMI veterans to hear concerns about healthcare access, benefits, and travel burdens, while working with the VA and the Pacific Islands Health Care System to expand outreach services across Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. I also continued pressing for long-term solutions to address the absence of a permanent VA clinic in the CNMI.

I spent time on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota meeting with students, elders, business leaders, local officials, and community members. These conversations reinforced the urgency of addressing high shipping costs, labor shortages, federal regulatory barriers, and the need for sustained tourism recovery.


May 2025

May was a month focused on economic recovery, healthcare equity, national security, education, and strengthening regional and international partnerships for the CNMI. Whether in Washington. or back home across Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, my work this month centered on making sure the needs of our islands were heard, understood, and acted upon at every level of government.

In Washington, I introduced and advanced legislation to improve healthcare access, including the Medicaid Improvement for Insular Areas Act and the TRAVEL Act to expand veteran medical services in the territories. I also voted to support major investments in Coast Guard operations and FAA modernization, strengthening border security, aviation safety, and critical infrastructure while reducing the federal deficit. Through committee markups and hearings, I pushed for policies that support small businesses, reduce regulatory burdens, and reflect the realities of island economies.

I pressed VA leadership on staffing vacancies, healthcare access, and promised services for the CNMI, securing progress on long-delayed positions and continued accountability. I also worked closely with FEMA, HUD, and other federal agencies to protect recovery funds, advance housing investments, and move long-stalled disaster projects forward.

Back home in the CNMI, I met with mayors, educators, healthcare leaders, business owners, students, artists, and community advocates. From celebrating student achievements and hosting the Congressional Art Competition, to supporting cultural preservation, disability advocacy, animal welfare, and wellness initiatives, May reinforced the importance of staying connected to the people behind the policies. I also welcomed regional partners from Guam, Japan, Micronesia, and across the Pacific, strengthening collaboration on education, tourism, security, and economic development.


November 2025

November began with relief as Congress passed a continuing resolution, signed by the President, ending the longest federal government shutdown in history. The measure restored funding through January 30, 2026, allowing federal programs to resume full operations. Nutrition Assistance Program benefits were partially disbursed earlier in the month, with full November benefits ensuring support for thousands of families across Saipan, Tinian, Rota, and the Northern Islands.

I participated in ASU’s Civics in a Year podcast discussing representation in Congress and the unique role of territorial delegates. I also spoke with Northern Marianas College students about local and national issues.

Veterans were honored throughout the month. I participated in the Veterans Day Ceremony, the Run Saipan Veterans Day 5K, and hosted the “Heroes Among Us” Veterans Resource Fair. This event connected veterans with local agencies and community partners, providing access to programs, resources, and support services. These initiatives highlighted the community’s gratitude and commitment to ensuring veterans’ well-being.

Federal support for the Marianas advanced with several key measures. USDA funding included $1.5 million for Saipan, $1 million for Tinian, and $1 million for CHCC projects. HR 5960 was introduced to restore de minimis tariff exemptions for the territories, and a public comment period opened for potential deep-sea mineral leasing offshore CNMI, encouraging local input. Federal grants totaling over $11 million through the Department of the Interior supported infrastructure, education, energy, and natural resource protection.


October 2025

October began with a federal government shutdown on October 1, 2025, following Congress’s inability to pass a continuing resolution. Most federal agencies are operating under shutdown procedures, with hundreds of thousands of employees furloughed. Essential services continued, including Social Security but impacts were felt on the Nutrition Assistance Program. I advocated for relief, including a request for CNMI NAP to use unused prior-year funds to maintain benefits for more than 5,500 households.

This month also celebrated CNMI educators and youth leadership. Yeji Lee, 2025 CNMI Teacher of the Year, visited Washington, D.C., along with her partner Jason Atrero, meeting with national leaders and highlighting Marianas education. Students from Fairpoint High School and local schools including Kagman, Saipan Southern, Marianas High, Agape Christian, and Mount Carmel engaged with congressional staff on civic leadership, U.S. aviation policy, and youth programs such as the Congressional App Challenge, Art Competition, and Congressional Award.

I introduced H.R. 5640 which proposes to treat the Marianas as a separate jurisdiction for Byrne JAG funds, and we saw S. 2296 and H.R. 3838 FY26 NDAA include provisions for military readiness, vessel repair, and infrastructure improvements. Federal grants totaling over $6 million, including Climate Change Technical Assistance and conservation funding, support essential services and ecosystem restoration.


September 2025

In September, Governor David Apatang led a CNMI delegation to Washington, D.C., meeting with the White House, participating in the Interagency Group on Insular Areas Mid-Year Plenary, and resuming 902 Consultations. These engagements strengthened federal partnerships, addressed disaster recovery, mail service, and air transportation, and advanced CNMI priorities in legislation and federal initiatives.

Congressional efforts in September brought major wins for the CNMI. The FEMA Reform Act (H.R. 4669) includes provisions addressing disaster workforce retention and lessons from Super Typhoon Yutu. The TRAVEL Act, passed by the House, will improve healthcare access for veterans in U.S. territories. The FY26 National Defense Authorization Act incorporated CNMI-focused amendments, including authorizing naval vessel repair in the Marianas, enhancing Defense Access Roads, and supporting military training projects. Other legislative advancements benefiting small businesses and maritime logistics include the FMC Reauthorization Act (H.R. 4183) and SBIR/STTR program extension (H.R. 5100).

Federal and grant support in September 2025 included $250,000 for audit assistance, $669,607 for legal services for victims of violence, $100,000 to the Joeten Kiyu Public Library, and $4.9 million from NOAA for marine debris removal—creating local jobs and restoring coastal ecosystems.

Locally, attention to youth, education, and workforce development continued in September 2025, with visits to Grace Christian Academy, Saipan International School, Northern Marianas College, and the Division of Youth Services. Partnerships with Western Pacific Maritime Academy and discussions on a CNMI National Guard highlight long-term career and security opportunities. A ride-along with COTA showcased the transformative impact of public transit.

September also highlighted cultural and economic outreach through the Joeten Kiyu Public Library and meetings with Japanese officials, reinforcing historic ties and promoting trade, tourism, and investment.


Rep. Nancy Mace Exposes Career Politician Alan Wilson’s Security Double Standard

CHARLESTON, S.C. (Jan. 2, 2026) – Today, Congresswoman Nancy Mace called out the blatant hypocrisy of South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, who is now starting the year with a dedicated security detail his office quietly requested while publicly mocking Rep. Mace for seeking basic protection amid thousands of credible threats.

Last month, Wilson dismissed Rep. Mace's legitimate security concerns as those of an "entitled" and "spoiled brat," despite her office documenting over 1,300 credible death threats annually. During this same time period, Wilson quietly obtained the very security protection he ridiculed the Congresswoman for seeking.

"It’s rich how security is ‘entitlement’ when it’s a Conservative woman who calls it like she sees it, but perfectly justified when it’s Alan Wilson," said Congresswoman Mace. "Classic career politician who thinks his own rules don’t apply to him."

The threats against Rep. Mace are credible, constant, and undeniable. Her fellow South Carolina delegation members have publicly acknowledged the severity of the danger she faces daily.

Representative Ralph Norman stated, “...Nancy gets more death threats than probably anyone.”

Senator Lindsey Graham added, “...Nancy is right. There’s some pretty angry people out there...”

Rep. Mace’s threats have materialized into concrete actions requiring law enforcement intervention.

Last month, a South Carolina judge denied bond for the third time to Samuel Theodore Cain, who threatened to shoot and kill Rep. Mace earlier this year. The threat triggered immediate law enforcement response and forced substantial changes to the Congresswoman's family security protocols. Even from behind bars, Cain's threat persisted. According to information provided to authorities by a confidential informant, when asked whether he would still assassinate Rep. Mace following the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk, Cain responded affirmatively without hesitation. Cain represents just one case among hundreds of documented threats.

The current political environment has seen an alarming escalation of violence against public officials nationwide, including the assassination of Charlie Kirk, two attempts on President-elect Donald Trump's life, and the murder of former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman.

Following Kirk's assassination, Rep. Mace's office was inundated with threats from individuals who left explicit threats of violence and death on her voicemail. A selection of these disturbing recordings is available HERE.

“Alan Wilson called me ‘entitled’ and ‘spoiled’ for asking for help after receiving more than 1,300 credible death threats each year, with multiple individuals incarcerated for making those threats,” said Congresswoman Nancy Mace. “He then quietly requested the same protection he mocked me for seeking. Alan Wilson is a coward.”

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Miller-Meeks Announces Congressional App Challenge Winner from Iowa City West High School

IOWA — Today, Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) proudly announced that Kento Sugiyama, a student at Iowa City West High School, is the winner of Iowa's First District 2025 Congressional App Challenge for his innovative application, CoFIS: Community Oriented Flood Information System.

Kento's app was inspired by the billions of people worldwide affected by flooding and food-related losses. CoFIS is a web-based application for scenario-based flood inundation mapping and impact. Using user-defined scenarios and discharge predictions from the National Water Model, the platform helps communities better understand flood risks in their areas and prepare for future events.

"Kento's work is an outstanding example of how young innovators are using technology to better their communities", said Rep. Miller-Meeks. "Flooding impacts communities across Iowa and around the world, and this app can better protect lives and property."

The Congressional App Challenge, hosted annually by the U.S. House of Representatives, encourages students to explore computer science and develop real word solutions. As a district winner, Kento will receive an exclusive invitation to a reception in Washington D.C. to showcase his work.


Scholten Announces New Congressional Dialogue Series To Launch In 2026

GRAND RAPIDS, MI - Today, U.S. Representative Hillary Scholten announced that she will launch a new Congressional Dialogue series in 2026. The program will consist of a number of community conversations, each focused on a different issue relevant to West Michigan, including health care, housing, immigration, data centers and protecting our environment.

“The news can be overwhelming these days, and it’s hard to know where to turn for clear, concise information,” said Rep. Scholten. “My Congressional Dialogue Series will be an opportunity to move beyond the talking points and the memes to understand what’s really going on in Washington and what we can do about it. I will sit down with West Michiganders to discuss the issues that matter most to them: the skyrocketing cost of housing, access to health care, immigration, data centers, Social Security, and much more. Stay tuned for details.”

The first installment in the Congressional Dialogue Series will take place on January 27th, 2026, at 6PM and will address the skyrocketing cost of housing.

More information is available at https://scholten.house.gov/dialogue-series.

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Sen. Cruz Concludes Another Successful Year Serving Texas and America

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) issued a statement this week about legislation he authored and passed into law throughout the past year to advance jobs in Texas and, more broadly, to advance the national security and economic interests of the United States.

Sen. Cruz said, “From the opening weeks of the new Congress, I drafted and passed into law conservative legislation that rolled back Obama-Biden policies that undermined the national, energy, and economic security of America, including liberal restrictions on home appliances that undermined the comfort of everyday Americans.

"In the Working Families Tax Cut Act, I successfully authored generational conservative advances, including Trump Accounts, a first-of-its-kind tax credit that will provide billions for school choice, No Tax On Tips, language eliminating CAFE standards, support for our Coast Guard, and measures to enhance American 5G leadership. At the end of the year, that bill also included language I pushed to ensure that Texas was reimbursed for what it spent dealing with Biden-era border policies. I also secured several provisions in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act to strengthen military bases across Texas and improve U.S. national security.

“As the Chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, I led efforts to invest in aviation safety, hold Big Tech liberals accountable for colluding with Washington to censor Americans, and promote innovation to keep America competitive. I authored and passed into law significant legislation through the Committee that will help keep Americans safe, including the TAKE IT DOWN Act and the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025.

“As we enter another year of Republican leadership in Congress and the White House, I am confident we will build on these successes.”

Legislation Authored and Passed By Sen. Cruz:

Chairman Cruz authored and passed into law the TAKE IT DOWN Act, which criminalizes the publication of non-consensual intimate imagery, including deepfake revenge pornography, and requires social media and similar websites to implement procedures to remove such content within 48 hours of notice from a victim.

Sen. Cruz authored and passed into law critical priorities through the Working Families Tax Cut Acts, including Sen. Cruz’s language and provisions regarding,

The No Tax on Tips Act, which eliminates income taxes on up to $25,000 of tips for tipped workers.

The Invest America Act, which establishes a private tax-advantaged account with a $1,000 seed investment from the federal government for every child born in America.

The Natural Gas Tax Repeal Act, which delayed the Biden administration’s natural gas tax

The Student Empowerment Act, which enhances 529 accounts for K-12 education, helping public, private, religious, and homeschool students.

The Livestock Indemnity Program Enhancement Act, which helps ensure Texas cattle ranchers affected by natural disasters have access to resources they need to recover.

Billions of dollars for school choice by providing dollar-for-dollar tax credits to Scholarship Granting Organizations, originally written as the Universal School Choice Act.

Historic funding for the U.S. Coast Guard- the single largest investment in Coast Guard history of over $24 billion to secure our maritime border against deadly drugs and illegal immigration.

The auction of 800 MHz of spectrum, which will enable American innovation to beat China in the race to 6G and will result in billions in new investments and the creation of hundreds of thousands of jobs.

Repealing CAFE standards, which have crippled American innovation and affordability for decades, cutting spending on leftist climate change programs and “green" fuel.

Language from the The State Border Security Assistance Act, which Sen. Cruz introduced with Sen. Cornyn, and which reimburses the State of Texas for the more than $11 billion dollars Texas taxpayers spent to protect Texans from the Biden administration’s open border policies.

Sen. Cruz authored and passed into law a measure that overturned a Biden-Harris rule which would have undermined American leadership on cryptocurrency innovation, and which more specifically defined certain developers as “brokers” for reporting and taxation.

Sen. Cruz authored and passed into law a measure that rescinded a Biden-Harris regulation on natural gas water heaters, which would have increased costs and limited consumer choice for Americans.

Sen. Cruz authored and passed into law key national security priorities for Texans, including Texas bases and military communities, through the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) including Sen. Cruz’s language and provisions regarding -

The B-1 Protection Act, which extends the existing prohibition on reductions to the B-1 bomber fleet

A Small-UAS Industrial Base Working Group and SkyFoundry Authorization, which will modernize and transform Red River Army Depot (RRAD) into the nation’s premier organic industrial base hub for small, unmanned aircraft systems (s-UAS)

The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025, which authorizes programs and activities to strengthen the Coast Guard’s critical mission

The Maritime Drug Law Enforcement Act, which ensures that drug traffickers who utilize remote-controlled or autonomous vessels to smuggle illegal narcotics can be prosecuted for drug trafficking

The FLRAA Production Authorization Act, which authorizes the Secretary of the Army to accelerate the procurement of the future long-range assault aircraft

To remove restrictive language from the FY2005 NDAA that limited the ability of the Texas A&M University System to establish a university on the conveyed property

To restrict deactivation of Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigades

Military construction authorizations for a Dyess B-21 Low Observable Corrosion Facility & Mission Planning Facility, a Mission Planning Facility, and Dyess Gate Repairs.

Sen. Cruz authored and passed into law the Monetary Enhancement for Distinguished Active Legends (MEDAL), which increases the monthly pension for living Medal of Honor recipients. President Trump signed into law a House vehicle that increases the pension to $67,500 annually.

Sens. Cruz and John Cornyn (R-Texas) issued statements after their Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge Act was signed into law. This legislation codifies President Trump’s Executive Order renaming the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge near Houston, Texas, to the Jocelyn Nungaray National Refuge.

Sen. Cruz authored and passed into law three bills memorializing United States Post Offices in Corpus Christi, Bastrop, and Brownsville, Texas into law.

Sens. Cruz authored and the Senate unanimously passed a Senate resolution condemning the Chinese Communist Party for the abduction of Pastor Ezra Jin and other leaders of the Zion Church and calling for their release.

Sen. Cruz Texas and National Security Initiatives With President Trump

Sen. Cruz worked with President Trump to ensure that Mexico provides water that it owes to Texas farmers. Sen. Cruz introduced the Ensuring Predictable and Reliable Water Deliveries Act of 2025, strengthens enforcement of the 1944 Water Treaty relating to the utilization of the waters of the Colorado and Tijuana Rivers and of the Rio Grande between the United States and Mexico, and holds the Mexican government accountable for not meeting its water delivery requirements under the treaty. Sen. Cruz imposed pressure on Mexico, alongside the Trump administration, to successfully secure agreements with Mexico on water shipments to Texas farmers and cities.

Sen. Cruz worked with President Trump to counter the persecution of Christians in Nigeria. Sen. Cruz introduced the Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025, which protects Christians and other religious minorities being persecuted in Nigeria by holding accountable Nigerian officials who facilitate Islamist jihadist violence and impose blasphemy laws, and led the push to advocate on behalf of President Trump’s military response against jihadists in Nigeria.

Sen. Cruz worked with President Trump to secure terrorist designations of the Muslim Brotherhood. Sen. Cruz introduced the Muslim Brotherhood Terrorist Designation Act, which implements a new modernized strategy for designating Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist group, and has worked side-by-side with the administration in advocating and advancing the designation of individual branches.


UPDATE: Merkley Announces First Eight Town Halls of 2026

UPDATE: Senator Merkley is postponing his Yamhill, Polk, and Marion County town halls scheduled for Friday, January 9 so he can be present in Portland due to the shooting by federal agents of two individuals in East Portland.

His office will share details when the town halls are rescheduled.

As of right now, Saturday and Sunday’s events will go on as planned.

Senator holding in-person conversations in Coos, Curry, Douglas, Jackson, Josephine, Marion, Polk, and Yamhill counties between January 9-11

Washington, D.C. — Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley announced today he will hold his first town halls of 2026, with in-person community conversations in Yamhill, Polk, and Marion counties on Friday, January 9, conversations in Douglas, Coos, and Curry counties on Saturday, January 10, followed by conversations in Jackson and Josephine counties on Sunday, January 11.

The eight events kick-off Merkley’s 2026 town hall tour of Oregon, where he will hold a community conversation in each of the state’s 36 counties.

“I’m looking forward to again visiting wonderful communities all over our state. By talking directly to folks in each county my team and I can go to work for the interests and needs most important in each corner of our state,” Merkley said.

Since taking office in 2009, Senator Merkley has kept his promise to hold an open town hall for each of Oregon’s 36 counties every year.

His upcoming town hall conversations are as follows, with additional details to be sent to local media ahead of each event:

Friday, January 9 — all events postponed

POSTPONED: Yamhill County Town Hall

Time: 10:30 am PT

Location: McMinnville Community Center

600 NE Evans Street, McMinnville, OR 97128

POSTPONED: Polk County Town Hall

Time: 1:00 pm PT

Location: Western Oregon University, WOU Athletics Center (formerly known as New PE)

510 Church St W, Monmouth, OR 97361

(located on North side of Church Street near the corner of Stadium Drive)

POSTPONED: Marion County Town Hall

Time: 3:30 pm PT

Location: Chemeketa Community College, Building 7 Gym

4000 Lancaster Drive NE, Salem, Oregon 97305

Saturday, January 10

Douglas County Town Hall

Time: 11:00 am PT

Location: Umpqua Community College, Southern Oregon Wine Institute

1140 Umpqua College Rd, Roseburg, OR 97470

Coos County Town Hall

Time: 3:00 pm PT

Location: North Bend Community Center

2222 Broadway Ave, North Bend, OR 97459

Curry County Town Hall

Time: 6:00 pm PT

Location: Driftwood School

1210 Oregon St, Port Orford, OR 97465

Sunday, January 11

Jackson County Town Hall

Time: 12:30 pm PT

Location: Ashland High School Gym

201 S Mountain Ave, Ashland, OR 97520

Josephine County Town Hall

Time: 3:30 pm PT

Location: Rogue Community College, Gym (U Building)

3345 Redwood Highway, Grants Pass, OR 97527

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This press release has been updated.


Senator Murray Visits Whatcom County Communities Hit Hard by Recent Flooding, Discusses Recovery and Rebuilding Efforts With Local Leaders & Emergency Management

ICYMI: Senator Murray Meets with Snohomish County First Responders, Tours Recent Flooding; Visits Skagit County Flood Wall, Affirms She Will Fight to Deliver Federal Resources to Support Recovery

ICYMI: In Senate Floor Speech, Senator Murray Commends Rescue Efforts and Response to Devastating Flooding Across WA, Vows to Continue Fighting for Support Needed to Rebuild & Recover

***PHOTOS AND B-ROLL HERE***

Everson, WA — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, met with local leaders, emergency management staff, and first responders from Whatcom County to discuss ongoing response, recovery, and rebuilding efforts in the region following the severe storms and devastating flooding that hit Washington state in mid-December. Whatcom County was among the most affected regions in Washington state by the historic flooding, with the Nooksack River reaching record major flood stage several times. Everson, Sumas, and Nooksack were hit especially hard in the county.

In Everson, Senator Murray met with Everson Mayor John Perry, and Nooksack Mayor Kevin Hester to discuss the ongoing response efforts and hear how their communities are rebuilding after the floods. After the floods barreled through Everson, it took three days before the river had receded enough to allow residents and business owners to return and inspect the damage. Everson City Hall was completely flooded. The city had just finished renovations on the building after the 2021 floods.

Later, in Sumas, Senator Murray met with Sumas Mayor Bruce Bosch to hear about ongoing response efforts in the area and how the community is recovering from devastating flooding. Sumas also suffered severe flooding in 2021.

Flood prevention programs and infrastructure have been a top priority for the communities of Everson and Sumas, and Whatcom County. At both visits, Senator Murray was also joined by Lummi Nation Chairman Tony Hillaire, Nooksack Indian Tribe Vice Chairwoman Anna Brewer, Ferndale Mayor Greg Hansen, Lynden Mayor Scott Korthuis, Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu, Whatcom County Flood Planning and Mitigation Manager Paula Harris, Whatcom County Public Works Special Projects Manager Roland Middleton, Whatcom County Natural Resources Program Manager Gary Stoyka, Whatcom County Sherriff Donnell “Tank” Tanksley, and Whatcom County Sherriff’s Office Deputy Director of Emergency Management Matt Klein, to hear about the flooding impacts and the developing response plans for the county.

“Even though it has been weeks since the extreme weather and devastating flooding hit our state, for people in communities like Everson and Sumas they are still living through the damage every day. I know towns like these, and many others across the state, have a long way to go when it comes to rebuilding—and I promise to be there every step of the way,” said Senator Murray. “These visits were an important reminder that our communities made it through this devastating flooding because of our local first responders, National Guard, and ordinary people that stepped up to help their neighbors. These floods may have destroyed homes, displaced families, and ruined farmland but I have seen firsthand how people, like right here in Everson and Sumas, are coming together to rebuild and heal. Washington state is resilient, and I promise to continue working in Congress to make sure that Washington state gets all the federal resources it needs to recover.”

Back in December, Senator Murray led Washington state’s entire Congressional delegation in a letter to President Donald Trump urging him to approve Governor Ferguson’s request for an expedited Emergency Declaration for the devastating storms and severe flooding hitting Washington state—that request was approved. Senator Murray visited the FEMA response center in Bothell to thank the staff for working around the clock to help coordinate local response efforts. Senator Murray also visited Snohomish County to hear from local first responders and emergency management officials and toured affected areas around the city of Monroe including Tualco Valley and Ben Howard Road. Senator Murray also met with local leaders in Skagit County to discuss the ongoing response efforts in the region and to see firsthand how the Skagit County Flood Wall protected downtown Mount Vernon during the historic flooding—Murray secured the federal funds to help build the flood wall back in 2006.

Senator Murray continues to reiterate that Congress should support more, not less, investments in climate resilience to help prevent extreme weather events from devastating communities—just as the Skagit County Flood Wall was able to do in December. Back in May, Senator Murray led a bipartisan, bicameral letter with over 80 of her colleagues urging Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem to reinstate the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program, which supports local efforts to protect and harden our communities from natural disaster. Just recently, Washington and a multistate coalition won their lawsuit against the Trump administration over its unlawful attempt to shut down the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) BRIC program. As a longtime senior appropriator, Murray has always fought to secure the federal resources Washington state needs to recover and rebuild from natural disasters—in Congress, Murray has worked hard to impress upon her colleagues that disaster relief should never be impeded by politics.

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Chairman Wicker Issues Statement on Ukraine Negotiations

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today issued the following statement:

“I welcome reports that the United States, Ukraine, and Europe have coalesced around a common negotiating position to end Putin’s war of aggression. The West’s demonstration of unity sends a clear signal to Putin. His plan to divide us will fail. President Trump has succeeded in fostering unity, which allows the West to engage Putin from a position of strength.

“Putin, ever the KGB agent, continues to peddle a false narrative. He wants the world to believe that Russia will inevitably achieve its military goals in Ukraine. The facts on the ground say otherwise.

“Ukraine has successfully retaken Kupiansk, and Russia remains unable to seize Pokrovsk. Both illustrate that Putin’s narrative rings hollow. Putin cannot generate the combat power needed to achieve his maximalist political goals. Ukraine continues to out-innovate Russia. Meanwhile, at President Trump’s urging, our European allies have taken significant steps to rebuild their industrial base alongside the United States.

“Putin understands the unity of the West as the greatest threat to his aims. Otherwise, he would not peddle unsubstantiated claims of Ukrainian attacks against his residence in Novograd. We should not tolerate these lies. They are an obvious pretext for rejecting President Trump’s peace terms.

“Ukraine is ready for peace on just and realistic terms. President Zelensky has repeatedly been willing to make public concessions as a part of negotiations. His country should not be compelled to accept a peace that requires it to cede unoccupied territory to the Russians. Such an outcome would hand Putin a negotiation victory that he has been unable to achieve on the battlefield. The U.S. and its NATO allies should increase military aid for Ukraine — in particular, air defenses and long-range strike weapons, which would further reinforce the fact that Putin’s military objectives are unachievable. America and Europe possess the capital and the talent to arm Ukraine and fortify our own defenses elsewhere against those who would disturb the peace.

“Additionally, credible security guarantees for Ukraine are indispensable to any lasting cessation of hostilities. I welcome President Trump’s suggestion that these security assurances be sent to the U.S. Senate for approval. The Senate’s endorsement will strengthen the agreement’s credibility and illustrate America’s broad, bipartisan support for Ukraine.

“It is time to end this war. But the end of hostilities must not reward the aggressor or cause the victim to suffer further. President Trump has the stronger hand. I encourage him to leverage this advantage fully as he works to bring this war to a swift conclusion and achieve a lasting peace.”

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Young, Kaine Op-Ed: Formally ending Iraq wars is a victory for the American people

WASHINGTON – The following column was published by U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.):

Formally ending Iraq wars is a victory for the American people

SENS. TODD YOUNG (R-Ind.) AND TIM KAINE (D-Va.)

The 1991 and 2002 congressional Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs) against Iraq have remained on the books as zombie war declarations for years after those conflicts ended. After our long advocacy, Congress has recently acted decisively to repeal these authorizations in the 2026 defense bill. These are the first war authorizations to be repealed by Congress in more than half a century.

We started our effort years ago out of a belief that Congress needs to shoulder its constitutional responsibility over decisions about the initiation and completion of war. The 1991 AUMF authorized the quick and successful operation against Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein’s forces after he invaded Kuwait. The 2002 AUMF plunged the U.S. into another war against Iraq, marking the end of Saddam Hussein’s rule.

Major military action against Iraq ceased with the fall of Hussein in 2003, but operations did not fully cease until 2011. Since that time, the United States has worked with Iraq to counter Iranian influence in the region and to defeat ISIS. But even as we partner with Iraq, the AUMFs have remained on the books, allowing a president to justify military action in Iraq without coming to Congress to seek legal authorization. Presidents of both parties have used the Iraq AUMFs in this way to take additional military action without congressional approval.

There has always been a tug-of-war between the White House and Congress over war powers. The Constitution gives the power to declare war to Congress and then vests the power to execute war in the president as commander-in-chief. But the framers recognized that the president could defend the U.S. from ongoing or imminent attack, even without congressional approval. Since our nation’s early days, there has been continuous debate over which circumstances permit a president to act unilaterally.

But the wisdom of congressional responsibility here is profound. The framers recognized that global precedent put war powers in the executive’s hands. They made the unusual decision to vest decisions of war and peace in the legislature, where transparent debate before the public by its elected representatives would illuminate the need for military action and weigh the costs in blood and treasure — before committing American troops to war.

In our view, Congresses controlled by both parties have long been guilty of ceding this responsibility to presidents. And presidents of both parties have zealously guarded their newfound power, further crowding the legislature out of the process.

A war vote is the toughest vote a member of Congress will ever take, as even a just and successful cause will bring suffering and death. So members of Congress have often allowed presidents to go it alone and avoided accountability for life-and-death decisions.

But confining the conversation to the White House Situation Room deprives the American people of the meaningful debate that should precede war. And it deprives our troops of the certainty that there is a national consensus behind their mission.

That’s why we’ve worked so hard to repeal these outdated war authorizations. Congress needs to own its responsibility to authorize war — and also act to repeal war authorizations that are no longer necessary.

We are deeply grateful to all the veterans’ organizations that helped us in this effort over many years. And we especially salute our Iraq War veterans, many of whom never felt the appreciation of their fellow Americans, as arguments over decisions made by our politicians obscured the bravery of those who served.

And we are grateful to President Trump for signing the repeal. As the bill was pending before the House of Representatives, his administration praised its “historic commitment to peace and ending ‘forever wars.’” The American people are tired of forever wars and want their leaders to be wise and careful in their authorization of military action.


Rep. Adams on Trump Administration’s Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela

CHARLOTTE, NC—Today, Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12) released a statement on President Donald Trump’s unauthorized military attack on Venezuela.

“President Trump deployed U.S. troops and launched strikes in Venezuela without Congressional authorization, utterly violating the U.S. Constitution," said Congresswoman Adams. "The War Powers Resolution only allows for unilateral presidential action in response to an imminent threat facing American citizens or servicemembers. He failed to offer any proof of that threat, failed to brief and seek Constitutionally required approval from Congress, and once again failed to put America first.


Congressman Aderholt Comments on U.S. Action in Venezuela to Bring Nicolás Maduro to Justice

This office is located on the backside of the Cullman Dental Arts building up the handicap ramp. It serves Cullman and Winston Counties.

We encourage you to make an appointment before coming into the office so that our constituent services representatives can pull up relevant information beforehand to help with your request of a federal agency.

This office serves Marshall, DeKalb, and Blount Counties.

We encourage you to make an appointment before coming into the office so that our constituent services representatives can pull up relevant information beforehand to help with your request of a federal agency.

This office serves Fayette, Lamar, Marion and Walker Counties. It also serves the portion of Tuscaloosa County north of the Black Warrior River, but also down the western side of the county to include the Ralph, Fosters areas.

We encourage you to make an appointment before coming into the office so that our constituent services representatives can pull up relevant information beforehand to help with your request of a federal agency.

This office serves Colbert and Franklin Counties. It also serves residents of Lauderdale County from roughly Center Star, west to the Mississippi line.

We encourage you to make an appointment before coming into the office so that our constituent services representatives can pull up relevant information beforehand to help with your request of a federal agency.

This office is located on the backside of the Cullman Dental Arts building up the handicap ramp. It serves Cullman and Winston Counties.

We encourage you to make an appointment before coming into the office so that our constituent services representatives can pull up relevant information beforehand to help with your request of a federal agency.

This office serves Marshall, DeKalb, and Blount Counties.

We encourage you to make an appointment before coming into the office so that our constituent services representatives can pull up relevant information beforehand to help with your request of a federal agency.

This office serves Fayette, Lamar, Marion and Walker Counties. It also serves the portion of Tuscaloosa County north of the Black Warrior River, but also down the western side of the county to include the Ralph, Fosters areas.

We encourage you to make an appointment before coming into the office so that our constituent services representatives can pull up relevant information beforehand to help with your request of a federal agency.

This office serves Colbert and Franklin Counties. It also serves residents of Lauderdale County from roughly Center Star, west to the Mississippi line.

We encourage you to make an appointment before coming into the office so that our constituent services representatives can pull up relevant information beforehand to help with your request of a federal agency.


Congressman Al Green’s Statement on U.S. Military Action in Venezuela and Commitment to Continue the Fight to Subsidize Healthcare

(Houston, TX)—Today, Congressman Al Green released the following statement regarding recent events in Venezuela and emphasizing the urgent need to prioritize healthcare access by extending Affordable Care Act subsidies for Americans. See Congressman Al Green’s statement below and access his letter to Speaker Johnson by clicking here.

Congressman Al Green stated, “I oppose putting boots on the ground in Venezuela. We cannot allow President Trump to continue engaging our military in strikes against nations without consulting Congress. I have asked the Speaker of the House to provide a congressional briefing that will explain the President’s authority to bomb another country and capture its president without consulting Congress. Also, know that I will not allow the President’s actions in Venezuela to distract me from fighting to provide necessary healthcare for the American people. For some, these subsidies are a matter of life and death. I will vote to extend the Affordable Care Act subsidies for the millions of Americans affected.”


Amo Statement on Trump’s Unconstitutional Military Action in Venezuela

“Nicolás Maduro is an undemocratic, corrupt despot whom I oppose. Opposition to a foreign leader is not a legal justification for Trump’s war in Venezuela.

Trump deciding to run Venezuela is not a plan for the day after or a guarantee of democratic governance. This is clearly a quest for oil that puts U.S. troops in harm's way. Trump is again undermining U.S. global leadership while giving autocrats around the world justification to cross borders for their own tyranny.

What we need is answers and oversight, not a permission slip enabling President Trump to engage in new wars, ignore Congress and our constitution, and act with impunity.

Trump is going forward with regime change, all while ignoring the needs of the American people. Congress must immediately vote on a War Powers Resolution to stop Trump’s unconstitutional military action.”


Ansari Statement on Trump Actions in Venezuela

PHOENIX -- Today, Congresswoman Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) released the following statement on Donald Trump's actions in Venezuela:

"Last night, Donald Trump carried out yet another illegal act of war in Venezuela, capturing the country’s illegitimate and brutal dictator, Nicolas Maduro. This is action that Congress did not authorize and the American people did not ask for. It is a profound abuse of power by an unrestrained U.S. president.

"Trump’s explanations for this action have incredibly changed from combatting drug trafficking, to forcing regime change, to now taking Venezuelan oil for the profit of multibillion dollar oil conglomerates. At a time of rising costs and severe crises of Trump’s own making at home, expending government resources, military capacity, and taxpayer dollars for foreign military intervention and to line the pockets of his friends and donors is utterly reckless and shameful.

"Any American military action in Venezuela requires Congressional authorization. While I am gratified that the Venezuelan people are now free from the horrific Maduro dictatorship, it now must be up to the people to set a course for a free and democratic Venezuela. The steps taken by the Trump administration last night are entirely outside the bounds of the law, and any further action to put tens of thousands of U.S. servicemembers in harm’s way and “run” a foreign country must be put before a vote in Congress as soon as possible. The American people do not want to repeat the mistakes of Iraq and Afghanistan.

"Congress needs to get to the bottom of what the administration’s next steps are: a transition plan in Venezuela? Seizing oil? Putting U.S. boots on the ground? Or further unconstitutional acts of war against other countries? The House must take immediate measures to hold this rogue president accountable, investigating last night’s events and passing a war powers resolution to prevent further military escalation."

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Bacon Issues Statement on Venezuela Strikes and Capture of Nicolás Maduro

Omaha, Neb. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement regarding the recent strikes in Venezuela and capture of Nicolás Maduro:

“Maduro and his predecessor took Venezuela from the richest to the poorest country in South America, and destroyed its democracy. The operations last night are great for the future of Venezuelans and the region. My main concern now is that Russia will use this to justify their illegal and barbaric military actions against Ukraine, or China to justify an invasion of Taiwan. Freedom and rule of law were defended last night, but dictators will try to exploit this to rationalize their selfish objectives.”

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Congressman Baird Statement on Successful U.S. Military Operation and Capture of Nicolás Maduro

Today, Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) released the following statement on the U.S. military operation that led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela:

"We are fortunate to have a President willing to follow through on protecting American lives. Decisive leadership as Commander-in-Chief matters, and it gives our men and women in uniform the confidence they need to carry out difficult missions against those who threaten our country.

"Holding indicted criminals accountable and denying drug traffickers a safe haven sends a clear message: the United States will not tolerate foreign actors who enable the flow of fentanyl and other deadly drugs into our communities.

"This mission underscores Congress’ responsibility to ensure our military has the resources it needs to defend the nation. A strong national defense is essential to our national security and to keeping American families safe."

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Rep. Becca Balint’s Statement on Trump’s Unilateral Military Action in Venezuela

“Nicolás Maduro is a brutal, illegitimate dictator, and Venezuelans have suffered greatly under his regime. That does not diminish the fact that President Trump has zero authority to use military force to remove the leader of another sovereign country. This unilateral military action was reckless, illegal and taken without any congressional briefing, approval or oversight. It brings us further down the dangerous path of abandoning our democratic principles, consolidating power, and destroying our Constitution.

“Americans do not want another war, another regime change, or another occupation of a foreign nation. We have made these horrible mistakes before, and American soldiers and their families have paid the price. Democrats in Congress need Republicans to stand with us to protect and defend the Constitution and congressional power. We are the elected officials closest to the people. We have a sacred duty to represent our people, to protect their rights, and to speak out and push back against any administration that violates the law.”


Statement from Congresswoman Joyce Beatty on  Today’s Trump Administration Actions in Venezuela

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (D-OH-03) issued the following statement on Trump Administration’s military actions in Venezuela earlier today:

“The American people and Congress deserve transparency, accountability, and clear answers before the United States is drawn into another open-ended conflict.

Nicolás Maduro is an illegitimate, authoritarian ruler who has brutalized the Venezuelan people and dismantled democratic institutions. They deserve a genuine path to democracy.

At the same time, the President of the United States is bound by the Constitution and the rule of law. Military action cannot be undertaken without congressional authorization, clearly defined objectives, or a plan for what comes next.

President Trump has offered shifting justifications for aggressive action in Venezuela over time, ranging from counter-narcotics efforts to protecting oil reserves, which makes the nature of this latest escalation deeply concerning.”

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Rep. Bera Statement on U.S. Military Action in Venezuela

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06), a senior Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee and House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement on the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and President Trump’s announcement that the United States will “run” Venezuela:

“Nicolás Maduro is an illegitimate leader who has inflicted hardship on the people of Venezuela. I hope this moment leads to a real democratic transition driven by the Venezuelan people.

“But the decision to launch military strikes without congressional input, support, or authorization is deeply concerning and illegal. President Trump has failed to present a clear and credible strategy for governance or democratic transition in Venezuela. He is drawing our nation into another open-ended conflict and risking a repeat of failed nation-building efforts.

“The Administration must brief Congress immediately. As a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, I expect both committees to hold prompt and thorough briefings.”


Congressman Blake Moore's Statement on Arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro

WASHINGTON – Congressman Blake Moore issued the following statement on the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

"Nicolás Maduro represented a clear threat to U.S. security interests due to years of empowering narco trafficking groups, inviting China and Russia to gain footholds in the Western Hemisphere, and supporting terrorist organizations like Hezbollah. It is good that he is facing trial for federal criminal charges that date back to 2020 (on this point, I find it important to note that the Biden Administration DOJ kept those charges in place for the duration of their term and even increased the bounty on information that would lead to Maduro’s arrest from $15 million to $25 million).

"I am hopeful that the Trump Administration has plans to help ensure a peaceful transition that empowers the Venezuelan people. However, if the United States is pursuing sustained military or law enforcement presence in the region, the Trump Administration needs to ask Congress for an Authorized Use of Military Force. This is something the Administration declined to do during its strike campaign this fall on suspected drug trafficking boats. A campaign of such consequence—with the balance of power in our hemisphere at stake—requires congressional oversight.

"More broadly, while the Maduro regime has egregiously facilitated the flow of drugs into our country, I hope this can be a moment where we acknowledge the limitations of the U.S. military in solving a serious and devastating problem at home. Curbing the domestic demand for drugs obviously requires a whole of society effort, and we can’t rely only on military strength."


Scott Statement on U.S. Military Strikes in Venezuela and Capture of President Maduro

NEWPORT NEWS, VA – Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement after the United States military conducted a large-scale strike against Venezuela and captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.

“I am deeply concerned by reports of U.S. military strikes in Venezuela and the capture of President Maduro. There is no question that Nicolás Maduro is a brutal and corrupt leader who has inflicted enormous harm on the Venezuelan people. However, the reprehensible conduct of a foreign leader, absent a clear and immediate threat to the United States, does not give any president the authority to disregard the Constitution.

“The Constitution vests in Congress the power to authorize the use of military force. To date, the Trump Administration has yet to identify a clear legal basis for its military strikes in the Caribbean, the Eastern Pacific or now inside Venezuela, for the capture of a foreign head of state, or even to ‘run’ a foreign country. Escalating military action inside a sovereign country without congressional authorization raises serious questions under both U.S. and international law and risks further destabilizing the region.

“I have repeatedly warned that these heavy-handed and legally dubious military actions carried out in the name of reducing drug use in the United States are among the least effective and most costly ways to address that problem. Decades of evidence and research make clear that the most effective strategies to reduce illicit drug use are education, prevention, and access to mental health and addiction treatment. Yet at the same time, this Administration has sought to significantly reduce staffing and funding for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the very federal agency charged with addressing those needs. This contradiction suggests a troubling preference for costly military escalation over evidence-based solutions.

“Congress and the American people deserve a full accounting of the legal authority, objectives, and consequences of these actions. I will continue to press for answers and for Congress to reassert our constitutional war powers.”

# # #


Rep. Burchett's Statement on the Capture of Nicolas Maduro

"Nicolas Maduro is a thug and a narcoterrorist, responsible for the murder of countless Americans. Today, the heavy hand of American justice brought Maduro out of hiding, ending his tyrannical regime once and for all.

Thank you to President Trump, Secretary Rubio, Secretary Hegseth, and our brave service members who carried out this operation." -- Rep. Tim Burchett (TN-02)

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Rep. Calvert Statement on the Capture of Nicolás Maduro

“Nicolás Maduro is a narco-terrorist who is responsible for the deaths of many Americans. I applaud President Trump, our national security leaders, and our military personnel responsible for apprehending Maduro. He will now face justice for his deadly crimes. I spoke with Secretary of War Pete Hegseth earlier this morning and congratulated him for a successful mission. I was relieved to hear no service members were killed during the operation. Over the past year, the world has seen America will no longer tolerate anyone who harms our people, including drug trafficking. The Trump Administration is correctly making the safety of America our highest priority.

As President Trump has stated this morning, the United States will facilitate a safe, proper and judicious transition of power in Venezuela. The people of Venezuela, who were oppressed under the Maduro regime, now have an opportunity for a brighter future that they should shape in a free, democratic, and prosperous manner.”


Carbajal Statement on U.S. Military Actions in Venezuela

Today, U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) issued the statement below following the Trump administration’s military actions in Venezuela.

“The Trump administration’s decision to attack Venezuela was a reckless and deeply destabilizing action. Launching unilateral military strikes and seizing Maduro without a clear plan for what comes next risks creating a dangerous power vacuum — one that could plunge the entire region into chaos and endanger countless lives.

“Today’s military action undermines the United States’s global standing and weakens the international rules-based order our country helped build decades ago. Maduro is an illegitimate leader, but these actions risk pulling our nation into yet another open-ended conflict at a time when the American people are demanding an end to forever wars abroad. At the same time, these actions do nothing to put the interests of the American people first and fail to address our current cost-of-living crisis.


Rep. Carson's Statement on Venezuela

Trump’s move in Venezuela is a dangerous misuse of taxpayer dollars and an intolerable abuse of power. Only Congress has the power to declare war.

How can Trump pay for the forced removal of another country’s president—but can’t pay for children’s healthcare in his own country?

Congress must act now, in a bipartisan way, to stop this insanity.


Case Statement On U.S. Actions In Venezuela

(Honolulu, HI) – U.S. Representative Ed Case (HI-01) today issued his statement on the large-scale military operation overnight in Venezuela:

“Nicholas Maduro is an illegitimate and oppressive dictator and the people of Venezuela deserve better. But that alone doesn’t justify an armed attack on a sovereign country and forced regime change in violation of international law.

“And unless there was an imminent threat to our country, it doesn’t justify violating our Constitution and war powers law which wisely reserve to Congress the grave decision to go to war.

“I don’t yet know the full facts or the President’s justification to attack Venezuela, place our troops in harm’s way, capture Maduro and administer the country.

“But the precedent of any President taking our country to war arbitrarily, single-handedly and without the approval of Congress has cascading effects that are far more dangerous.”

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Casten Statement on Military Operations in Venezuela

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) released the following statement regarding United States military operations in Venezuela:

"I strongly condemn President Trump’s unlawful military action in Venezuela. Maduro is an illegitimate ruler, but the President cannot send U.S. forces into another country and seize its leader without Congressional authorization. The Trump Administration has not shown that there was an immediate threat that required acting without Congress, and it has not explained how it will keep Venezuela from sliding into chaos, violence, or a dangerous power vacuum. Secretaries Hegseth and Rubio recently told Congress this was not about forcing political change, but the Administration’s actions prove that they lied.

"This is not a careful national security decision. It is a major escalation that puts Americans in Venezuela and across the region at risk and could drag the United States into another conflict without a plan or public support. It also sets an alarming international precedent by normalizing the use of U.S. force to remove foreign leaders. The Administration must brief Congress immediately on the legal basis for this action, what intelligence they relied on, how they plan to prevent further violence and protect civilians, and what they will do to avoid wider instability in the region."

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Castor Statement on Trump Administration’s Unauthorized Actions Towards Venezuela

Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) released the following statement:

“U.S. military service members are the most skilled in the world, and I pray for their safety. Tampa Bay neighbors and I want better for friends and family who have suffered under the oppressive Maduro regime.

“Trump’s military attack on Venezuela, without the approval of Congress, violates the U.S. Constitution which vests Congress with the power to declare war. Congressional authorization is important so that Americans can hold their elected representatives accountable for the costs and consequences of war.

“Allegiance to the U.S. Constitution is not a quaint notion that can be ignored by Trump even when it comes to corrupt Nicolas Maduro. Trump’s justification for regime change and a takeover of Venezuela are unsubstantiated. Trump recently pardoned a convicted drug trafficker Juan Orlando Hernandez and has provided no evidence drug trafficking from Venezuela presents an imminent threat to America’s national security.

“Trump has learned no lessons of the past, has taken America to war for oil again and thumbed his nose at promises to lower the cost of living. Trump said that he intends to run Venezuela while Republicans can’t even provide affordable health care to Americans. Trump said that he intends that U.S. oil companies will take the oil from Venezuela to profit, a dangerous green light to the aggression of Russia and China. After listening to President Trump this morning, I am disgusted by his constant lies to the American people. I question his mental faculties and ability to lead the country.”


Castro Statement on Venezuela

SAN ANTONIO, TX — Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement:

“Trump is escalating his regime-change war in Venezuela.

“Early this morning President Trump escalated an unconstitutional war. Without the approval of, consultation with, or even notice to Congress, the Trump Administration invaded Venezuela and ousted Nicolás Maduro.

“I hope for the best for the Venezuelan people, but I’m concerned this regime change operation risks destabilizing the country further. The President’s motives are also dubious. He declared a few weeks ago that this operation was about oil and land. I fear that he will do what he has done in other parts of the world – use this conflict to enrich himself, his family, and his cronies.

“The President must brief the Congress. We cannot put our troops in harm's way over Trump's reckless pursuit of power, oil and land.”


Smith gavels in the second session of the 119th Congress

Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) gavels in the second session of the 119th Congress on Saturday, January 3, 2026.

Today, Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), the Dean of the New Jersey delegation, presided over the U.S. House of Representatives and commenced the second session of the 119th Congress.

“From securing the official naming of the Bud Lomell VA Clinic to mandating a Government Accountability Office investigation into the true origins of Lyme disease, the first session of the 119th Congress saw the fruition of many years-long legislative efforts,” said Smith, whose comprehensive, $2 billion Autism CARES Act also began its five-year implementation in 2025.

“In 2025, Congress secured the biggest tax cuts for working families through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and we reauthorized and fully funded the Nation’s defense activities through the FY 26 NDAA.”

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Congressman García’s Statement on U.S. Unauthorized Attack on Venezuela

CHICAGO — Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) issued the following statement on the unauthorized attack by the Trump administration against Venezuela:

“I strongly condemn Trump’s strikes and regime change operation in Venezuela, which he undertook without Congressional consultation and in violation of international law.

“Trump’s actions will not stop fentanyl trafficking, as Venezuela doesn’t produce any. Instead, in an imperialist assertion of hemispheric control, Trump’s actions open the doors to his own self-enrichment and that of his oil-executive donors.

“The American people overwhelmingly oppose military action against Venezuela. Speaker Johnson must reconvene Congress so that we can be briefed on this matter and vote to oppose further attacks.”

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Declaración del Congresista García sobre el Ataque no Autorizado de Estados Unidos Contra Venezuela

CHICAGO — El congresista Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) emitió la siguiente declaración sobre el ataque no autorizado de la administración Trump contra Venezuela:

“Condeno enérgicamente los ataques de Trump y la operación de cambio de régimen en Venezuela, que llevó a cabo sin consultar al Congreso y en violación del derecho internacional.

“Las acciones de Trump no detendrán el tráfico de fentanilo, ya que Venezuela no lo produce. En cambio, en una muestra imperialista de control hemisférico, las acciones de Trump abren las puertas a su propio enriquecimiento y al de sus donantes de la industria petrolera.

“El pueblo estadounidense se opone abrumadoramente a la acción militar contra Venezuela. El presidente de la Cámara de Representantes, Johnson, debe convocar al Congreso para que se nos informe sobre este asunto y podamos votar en contra de nuevos ataques”.

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CLARKE CONDEMNS TRUMP’S UNAUTHORIZED MILITARY STRIKES AND REGIME CHANGE IN VENEZUELA

The President ’s imperial pursuits will not end with Venezuela. If left unchecked, more illegal military aggressions loom just over our horizon — at great cost to American lives, resources, and moral standing.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

January 3, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT:

e: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov

c: 202.913.0126

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) issued the following statement in response to the Trump administration acting without congressional authorization to initiate U.S. military strikes against Venezuela and to conduct forceful, unilateral regime change by seizing President Nicolás Maduro:

“In a brazen affront to the rule of law and the U.S. Constitution and without any rational consideration of the grave consequences that will inevitably follow, in the dead of night, Donald Trump has plunged the United States into yet another dangerous foreign entanglement by unleashing direct military strikes upon Venezuela’s capital and capturing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.

“For years, Maduro’s authoritarian rule has oppressed Venezuelans and weakened their country. He was a despot with no regard for his own nation. His people have endured extreme hardship, political unrest, uncertainty, and instability under his leadership — so much so that many took great risks to seek asylum behind our borders.

“However, this is not a case of the ends justifying the means. Despite this military operation and considering Donald Trump’s comments in its aftermath, it has become crystal clear that toppling Maduro for narco-trafficking was far from the primary reason the administration engaged militarily with Venezuela. This reckless and non-congressionally sanctioned regime change was driven not by national security, but by the pursuit of oil riches. This action has no place in U.S. foreign policy. It is an illegal and illegitimate doctrine of extreme aggression sanctioned solely by the executive branch.

“Since the Trump administration first initiated strikes off the coast of Venezuela, Americans have overwhelmingly opposed these illegal military actions and have rightly already rejected this unhinged escalation. President Trump lacked both the righteousness and the constitutional respect to bring his war before Congress. Had he done so, I would have voted no.

“This impulsive interventionism does not make Americans safer; it leaves our global reputation in tatters and further destabilizes an already volatile region and our South American and Caribbean relations. Worse still, Donald Trump has now threatened a lasting U.S. occupation of Venezuela and refuses to rule out a significant presence of American troops on the ground. The Venezuelan people deserve their chance at freedom. They do not wish to substitute their dictator with America’s.

“The Trump administration’s actions today will only serve to embolden and implicitly endorse our adversaries to carry out their own military aggressions against sovereign nations, eroding international norms and the rule of law. They have also paved the way for further interventions by Donald Trump and his enablers. The President’s imperial pursuits will not end with Venezuela. If left unchecked, more illegal military aggressions loom just over our horizon — they will undoubtedly come at great cost to American lives, resources, and moral standing.”


Rep. Cleaver’s Statement on Unconstitutional Military Action in Venezuela

(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after the administration’s unconstitutional military action in Venezuela.

“The president’s reckless decision to put our servicemembers in harm’s way by attacking a sovereign nation without a coherent rationale or approval from Congress is unconstitutional, destabilizing to the region, and deeply damaging to America’s reputation around the world.

“While there is not a single individual who will defend the actions of a murderous and illegitimate dictator in Nicolás Maduro, the use of military force to enact regime change in a foreign nation has proven disastrous to our national security and economic interests in recent history. Moreover, such shortsighted decision-making will only embolden despots around the world, giving tyrants in Russia and China an excuse to utilize their own military forces to depose leaders with whom they disagree.

“Whether it was the illegal strikes in Iran, Nigeria, or off the coast of South America, there is no question that this careless decision is the culmination of Congressional Republican refusal to hold the Executive Branch accountable and maintain the checks and balances that are essential to strategic and well-informed foreign policy. Now, because of this dereliction of duty, the president claims our troops and tax dollars will ‘run’ Venezuela ‘until such time as a proper transition can take place’.

“As Congress returns to Washington, the administration must immediately brief the people’s elected representatives about the legal justifications of this attack, the short-term risks to our troops and civilians, and the long-term strategy to ensure the situation in Venezuela does not result in another quagmire that the American people do not support and cannot afford.”

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


Rep. Cline Statement on U.S. Capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro

Today, Rep. Ben Cline (VA-06) issued the following statement after the successful capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by U.S. forces.

“Protecting our people, securing our border, and dismantling drug trafficking networks is non-negotiable. We will use every lawful tool available to stop this crisis, hold those responsible accountable, defend our sovereignty, and keep American families safe,” said Rep. Ben Cline.


Congressman Cohen’s Statement in Reaction to the Venezuelan Extraction Mission Overnight

MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, made the following statement after reviewing news reports of the military-law enforcement extraction of Nicolas Maduro from Venezuela overnight:

“Nicolas Maduro and his wife were fugitives from justice and will now have their day in a U.S. court. Without question, Maduro is a bad guy and stole an election to stay in power and has engaged in activities that were deleterious to the United States.

“But this was an invasion to extract the president of a foreign nation by force and afterward to run the country. Capturing him was an act of war and only Congress can declare war. This action was unconstitutionally initiated.

“Trump has a way of shooting first and taking aim later, and I am concerned that this attack risks another open-ended conflict and could destabilize the entire region. My sense is that this is not what the American people can support. We’ve already seen enough ‘forever wars.’

“Trump has returned us to the era of ‘gunboat diplomacy’ and the Monroe Doctrine of the 19th century, both very unpopular with our Latin American neighbors. This is the 21st century.

“As a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, I expect the Administration to brief Congress as soon as possible on the scope, legal basis, and objectives of these actions, as well as any potential risks to U.S. personnel, civilians, or regional stability. Congressional oversight is not optional -- it is a constitutional requirement.”

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Costa Statement on Reports of U.S. Military Action In Venezuela

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding reports that the President ordered unilateral military action in Venezuela:

“There is no dispute that Nicolás Maduro is a dictator who has illegally and illegitimately clung to power, inflicting severe hardship on the Venezuelan people. However, unilateral military action risks undermining U.S. standing in the region, straining relationships with key allies, and escalating instability throughout the hemisphere.

As a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I am deeply troubled by reports that the President acted without consulting Congress. The Constitution is clear that Congress must be involved in decisions regarding the use of military force. Acting unilaterally undermines democratic oversight and sets a dangerous precedent.

This administration’s priorities are misplaced. Americans are focused on lowering the cost of health care, housing, and groceries, not sudden military actions overseas taken without transparency or accountability.

At a time when families across the country are struggling to make ends meet, the administration must clearly explain the legal authority for this action, its objectives, and how it serves the national interest. The entire Congress deserves a full briefing, and the American people deserve transparency.

Upholding the rule of law cannot be selective. It must apply both abroad and at home.”


Ranking Member Courtney Statement on Venezuela

NORWICH, CT – Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), Ranking Member of the House Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, released the following statement after President Trump’s remarks on the U.S. capture of Venezuela President Maduro.

“President Trump’s claim that today’s unauthorized, unilateral military strike in Venezuela is a ‘law enforcement’ action against indicted drug trafficker Maduro rings hollow after the President just pardoned a convicted drug dealer, the former President of Honduras, who was serving a 45-year sentence in U.S. prison, 34 days ago,” Courtney said. “Maduro is a loathsome dictator – that is not in dispute. However, as General David Petraeus stated, before using military force, answer the question ‘How does this end?’ President Trump’s remarks and his own contradictory actions fail that simple but crucial test. In particular, his declaration that ‘we are going to run the country’ is an alarming open-ended policy of occupation. The constitution screams out for Congress to reassert its role to decide use of military force. Our country’s military servicemembers and citizenry deserve better.”


Crow Statement on Trump Administration's Military Action in Venezuela

AURORA — Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06), a former paratrooper and Army Ranger who serves on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to the Trump Administration's military action in Venezuela:

“After decades of failed conflicts, trillions of taxpayer dollars spent, and thousands of lives lost, Americans are struggling to get by and are exhausted by endless wars.

“It’s true that Maduro is a brutal dictator. It’s also true that not every problem is ours to fix. But now this one is.

“The Trump Administration repeatedly lied to Congress and the American people about Venezuela. Over and over, officials testified that this was not about regime change.

“Congress needs an immediate briefing on the Trump Administration's strategy for the day after. Donald Trump has already done incalculable damage to America’s reputation. We have to prevent this from spiraling into another nation-building disaster.”

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