Rep. Panetta Statement Following No Vote on Department of Homeland Security Funding Bill

Washington, DC - Rep. Panetta released the following statement:

"I voted no on the appropriations bill for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). My vote came down to priorities. I’m focused on reducing costs for working families in California’s 19th Congressional District, especially when it comes to decreasing prices for housing, healthcare, food, fuel, and childcare. This Administration, however, is focused on sending masked agents from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CPB) into our communities to troll parking lots of big box stores and target, harass, and, as we witnessed recently, harm community members and American citizens.

"This Administration’s deportation policy is going well beyond targeting felons and gang members. Instead, ICE and CPB officers, many who appear to be recently recruited, rushed through training in 47 days, poorly trained, and unprofessional, are injected into communities with masks and without body cameras, which is leading to violent and deadly confrontations. Moreover, as we experienced after the shooting of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis, the Administration, including the President, provides irresponsible defenses and explanations for this ineptitude and aggression, which appear to normalize brutality, violence, and lawlessness, rather than accountability and transparency.

"The DHS appropriations bill does nothing to rein in and control ICE and CPB. Congress must work together to ensure proper oversight of DHS, including basic accountability measures, including no masks, warrant requirements, bans on deporting American citizens, proper training, and body cameras. These are standard practices in many law enforcement agencies. But none of those procedures were included in the DHS appropriations legislation. The Congressional power of the purse is one of our Constitutional tools to demand accountability, and that is why I voted no.

"I also continue to call for an independent investigation into the shooting of an American citizen in Minneapolis for transparency and accountability, the removal of Homeland Security Advisor Stephen Miller and DHS Secretary Noem, and impeachment proceedings based on the Congressional investigations in the House Committees on Homeland Security and Judiciary. I support legislation to help control ICE and CBP, including bills to limit force and require de-escalation training, hold agents accountable when they break the law, ban masks for agents, limit enforcement in sensitive areas, limit authority to target citizens of a specific nation, and redirect partisan approved funding to help people afford healthcare. I continue my work on immigration reform to fix our asylum system and help legalize those who work hard, play by the rules, and contribute to our economy and communities.

"My priority in Congress is to fight for the values and serve the people of our home. That includes voting against funding bills so that Congress can provide proper oversight, transparency, and accountability of federal agencies and the executive branch. That is how Congress lives up to our responsibilities of checks and balances under Article One of the U.S. Constitution. To help fulfill that goal, I will continue my fight against the backward priorities of this Administration and work hard to fulfill our priorities by investing in accountability, safety, and affordability for working families."


Pappas Joins Call for Transparent Investigation into ICE Shooting of Renee Good

Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joined Congresswomen Susie Lee (NV-03) and Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08) and over 20 of their colleagues in a letter calling for an immediate, impartial, and transparent investigation into the tragic shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

In their letter, the Members wrote, “The widely circulated footage of Ms. Good’s killing is deeply troubling. Her family and the American public deserve clear answers and accountability. Law enforcement officers are routinely entrusted with making split-second decisions under challenging conditions. That trust depends on sound judgment, appropriate deployment, and accountability when standards are not met. When the government’s duty to protect life and uphold the rule of law is in question, we must have rigorous oversight to understand what went wrong, ensure accountability, and prevent future tragedies, making an immediate, unbiased investigation is essential.”

The Members also requested Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons respond to the following questions:

Please provide a full accounting of personnel and resources diverted to ICE operations since January 20, 2025, and any assessments of the resulting impacts on counter-terrorism, child sex trafficking, drug trafficking, disaster response, public safety, and other federal law enforcement missions.

In light of Ms. Good’s tragic death, what steps is the Department of Homeland Security taking to ensure transparency, accountability, and oversight of ICE operations moving forward?

What training standards and requirements govern ICE officers, including initial training, continuing education, and instruction on use of force and de-escalation?

How does ICE ensure consistent adherence to use-of-force policies, and what accountability mechanisms are triggered following a serious injury or fatal incident?

How many ICE personnel are currently assigned to or deployed within each undersigned Member’s congressional district?

How many individuals are currently in ICE custody from each undersigned Member’s congressional district?


Pappas Proposes Amendment to DHS Appropriation to Redirect Excessive ICE Funding to Local Law Enforcement

Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) proposed an amendment to the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2026 to include his legislation, the PUBLIC SAFETY Act to redirect almost $75 billion in funding passed in the Republicans’ so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and send it instead to local law enforcement programs to help hire and train 200,000 local cops nationwide. This amendment is cosponsored by Representatives Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Susie Lee (NV-03), and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02).

Pappas’s legislation would not affect ICE’s regular appropriations, leaving the agency with historically normal funding levels to conduct traditional immigration enforcement operations.

“While local law enforcement are repeatedly asked to do more with less, this administration is funneling billions in unnecessary funding to ICE to conduct operations that local law enforcement agree are actually making our country less safe,” said Congressman Pappas. “That is why I am introducing this amendment to fund our local police and provide them with the resources they need to protect their communities. I have heard directly from departments about the need for increased resources for recruitment, retention, training, and victim assistance. This amendment will allow local police to invest in the kind of tested and trusted law enforcement we have here in the state of New Hampshire.”

Pappas’s bill would prioritize effective law enforcement by investing in local police officers who undergo thorough training and have real ties to the communities they serve. Specifically, the Providing Useful Budgets for Localities to Invest in Cops by Substituting Appropriations from Federal Enforcement To Yield Results (PUBLIC SAFETY) Act would:

Reallocate $29.85 billion in OBBBA funds for ICE’s enforcement and operations to the COPS Hiring Program for the hiring of over 200,000 local police officers nationwide;

Waive the COPS Hiring Program’s matching contribution requirements for small jurisdictions; and

Reallocate $45 billion in OBBBA funds designated for unnecessary and harmful additions to ICE’s detention capacity to the Byrne JAG program, which provides funding to support training, crime victim assistance, and crime prevention.

While federal law enforcement has an important role to play in targeting undocumented violent criminals and securing the border, the Trump administration’s immigration policies are not keeping Americans safe. Instead, the reckless Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary, Kristi Noem, is putting thousands of unprepared and undertrained agents in our communities with unacceptable results. In the past year, ProPublica estimates that ICE has detained over 170 U.S. citizens. As of late November 2025, 73% of individuals held in ICE detention did not have a criminal conviction, and less than 5% had a violent criminal conviction. At the same time, ICE has lowered its training and hiring standards, putting undertrained and unvetted agents on the streets, straining already understaffed police departments.

New Hampshire has faced a police staffing shortage in recent years, including documented vacancies for 62 state troopers and dozens of positions across local departments. Pappas’s bill would help address that shortage by dramatically increasing funding for two key programs that help police departments hire and train officers, support victims, and invest in crime prevention, raising funding levels more than 200-fold compared to current levels.


Pappas Statement on Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act

Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement about his vote on H.R. 7147 - Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2026:

“Granite Staters want law and order. They want their families to be safe. I appreciate the job that our law enforcement officers do every day, and I believe ICE should enforce our laws professionally, using the high standards employed by New Hampshire law enforcement.

“However, this administration has gone far beyond ICE's intended role and shown a clear disregard for the best practices and high standards that federal law enforcement must meet. Instead, we have seen this government conduct operations that, according to local leaders, are actually making our country less safe.

“That is why I introduced an amendment to this legislation to redirect $75 billion in excess funding from the Republicans’ so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act from ICE and send it instead to local police departments who know their communities best. Unfortunately, the Republican majority blocked this amendment.

“Knowing this, I voted against this spending bill because American citizens and taxpayers deserve accountable government and commonsense guardrails for ICE. I will continue to work to strengthen public safety and stand with New Hampshire’s law enforcement community, which should be a model for this country and our federal government on how to build trust, meet the highest possible standards, and keep people safe.”


Patronis Stands Up Against Big Tech to Protect Our Kids

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Patronis spoke on the House floor urging his colleagues to support H.R. 7045, the Promoting Responsible Online Technology and Ensuring Consumer Trust (PROTECT) Act, legislation to repeal Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act and end the special legal immunity granted to Big Tech companies, restoring accountability to online platforms that profit while children pay the price.

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Click here or above to watch the full clip.

Congressman Patronis: “Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge my colleagues to support H.R. 7045, the PROTECT Act, because it is time to repeal Section 230 and hold Big Tech accountable for the harm being done to our children. I am a father of two young boys, and I refuse to stand by while powerful technology companies knowingly harm kids without consequences. This is the only industry in America that can knowingly harm our children with no consequences and walk away without responsibility. Big Tech has become digital fentanyl that is slowly killing our kids, pushing parents to the sidelines, acting as therapists, and replacing relationships with robots. This must stop. Parents are fighting a system designed to replace them. Algorithms and chatbots fuel addiction, depression, self-harm, and suicide, all while companies hide behind Section 230. When social media leads our kids to suicidal thoughts and our children believe that they are better off gone, no one is held responsible, this is deeply broken. I am demanding accountability. I am standing up for children. And I am saying the double standard ends now. Mr. Speaker, I yield back.”

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CONGRESSMAN PAT RYAN VOTES AGAINST BILL FUNDING ICE’S UNCONSTITUTIONAL OVERREACH

ICE already has a budget larger than most militaries and is operating without federal oversight in cities across the country

The Administration has continuously refused to hold ICE accountable, including after an ICE agent shot and killed an unarmed woman in Minnesota; new reporting on an internal ICE memo reveals agents will now be allowed to enter homes without warrants, a clear violation of the Constitution

The Hudson Valley community has made their opposition to current ICE operations clear; more than 10,000 community members – and counting – have signed onto Ryan’s petition opposing ICE moving into Orange County

CHESTER, NY – Today, Congressman Pat Ryan voted no on a bill that funds ICE through 2026 without imposing any guardrails or restrictions on the agency’s behavior.

The Trump Administration has continuously refused to hold ICE accountable including after an ICE agent shot and killed an unarmed woman in Minnesota. Now, an internal ICE memo has revealed that agents will be allowed to enter people’s homes without warrants – a clear violation of the Constitution’s “right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures.”

The Hudson Valley has made their opposition to current ICE operations clear. When the Washington Post reported that a warehouse in Orange County would be used as part of a larger ICE plan to house 80,000 immigrants nationwide, the community immediately voiced and demonstrated their strong backlash. Ryan released a petition in opposition to the proposal, which gained more than 10,000 signatures – and counting – within a week.

“ICE already has a budget that is larger than most countries’ militaries. The Administration absolutely refuses to hold the agency accountable – giving them the green light to use excessive force to move into our communities, terrorize our neighbors, and make us all less safe. It’s dangerous, un-American, and the exact opposite of everything our community stands for,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “The President promised to focus on deporting violent criminals, but instead we’re seeing innocent civilians harassed, detained, and even killed. Now they’re claiming they can enter Americans’ homes without warrants – a blatant violation of the Constitution. With this vote, our Hudson Valley community is sending a strong, united message: we strongly reject ICE’s abuse of power.”

Despite the massive expansion of enforcement authority, Republicans refused to include common-sense safeguards, including:

Requiring ICE agents to obtain judicial warrants before making arrests

Mandating the use of body-worn cameras during enforcement operations

Prohibiting masks or face coverings during routine enforcement

Establishing clear, enforceable use-of-force standards

Explicitly banning the detention or deportation of U.S. citizens

Community members are still encouraged to sign this petition in opposition to the proposed facility as Hudson Valley-wide backlash to DHS’s plan to move ICE into Chester continues to grow.

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Pelosi Statement on Homeland Security Appropriations Act

Washington, D.C. – Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement on her vote against H.R.7147, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act of 2026:

“Today, I am voting HELL NO on the Department of Homeland Security appropriations legislation. With this bill, it is now clear that Donald Trump and Republicans slashed Americans’ health care funding to write a blank check for cruelty and impunity.

“Americans are being told to accept higher health care costs so this Administration can maintain their reckless and unaccountable enforcement agenda without meaningful reforms or guardrails for ICE and CBP. Democrats have raised repeated concerns about unlawful practices, lack of transparency, and deadly harm to families and communities. Those concerns have been ignored.

“We can fund our security without abandoning our values, but this bill fails that test.”


House Republicans Reject Rep. Pettersen’s Amendments to Rein in ICE

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) released the following statement after House Republicans rejected her amendments to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding bill that would have put commonsense checks on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the wake of the murder of Minneapolis resident Renee Good and a disturbing pattern of extreme force, family separation, and unlawful detentions by ICE officers across the country. Rep. Pettersen is opposed to the DHS funding bill.

“ICE has gone rogue — terrorizing our communities, detaining people who are here legally, arresting children, and murdering innocent US citizens with zero accountability,” said Pettersen. “The lawlessness and cruelty of Trump and Noem’s ICE operations are creating fear and chaos across the country. We were told they were going to go after violent criminals, but that is far from reality. In fact, last month 75% of detainees had no criminal history. Immigrants without any criminal convictions are being sent to federal prisons meant for violent criminals who are a danger to our communities. On top of that, kids are being ripped from their parents and thrown into foster care, and other federal law enforcement officers are being pulled into ICE operations instead of being able to do their actual jobs. That’s why I introduced amendments to rein in some of the unlawful actions we’re witnessing but, unfortunately, Republicans rejected every single one. I will continue to fight back against ICE’s illegal actions, hold Donald Trump and Kristi Noem accountable, and vote against any funding or additional authority for these horrific, unconstitutional and terrifying operations.”

Rep. Pettersen’s amendments would establish critical guardrails on ICE operations, including:

Blocking ICE from placing a child into foster care when a parent is detained without first contacting next of kin;

Prohibiting the transfer of federal law enforcement officers to ICE; and

Preventing ICE from holding detainees in federal prisons.

Pettersen has consistently voted against Donald Trump’s anti-immigrant agenda, including opposing over $45 billion in funding for immigration enforcement in the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” She also supports legislation to require DHS and ICE officers to clearly identify themselves during enforcement actions and has demanded accountability from DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, including calling for Noem’s impeachment.


Rep. Pettersen Votes Against Legislation to Fund Trump’s Disturbing, Violent ICE Operations

WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) released the following statement after voting against the fiscal year (FY) 2026 Department of Homeland Security appropriations bill which does not include any guardrails for Donald Trump and Secretary Kristi Noem’s disturbing and violent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations.

The vote comes in the wake of the murder of Minneapolis resident, Renee Good, and an escalating pattern of extreme force, family separation, and unlawful detentions by ICE officers across the country.

“This bill gives Donald Trump and Kristi Noem a greenlight to continue ICE operations that are lawless, dangerous, and out of control,” said Pettersen. “My office has been inundated with calls, emails, and letters from Coloradans who are horrified by what we are witnessing right now. That’s why I introduced amendments to put guardrails in place — to keep children with their families, stop the transfer of other federal officers into ICE, and prevent immigrants from being sent to federal prisons. Unfortunately, Republicans rejected every single one. At a moment when this administration has shown it has no regard for human life, the Constitution, or accountability, Congress cannot keep writing checks without oversight. I voted no, and I will continue to oppose funding for these illegal ICE operations.”

House Republicans rejected Representative Pettersen’s amendments that would have:

Blocked ICE from placing a child into foster care when a parent is detained without first contacting next of kin;

Prohibited the transfer of federal law enforcement officers to ICE; and

Prevented ICE from holding detainees in federal prisons.

Pettersen has consistently voted against Donald Trump’s anti-immigrant agenda, including opposing over $45 billion in funding for immigration enforcement in the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” She also supports legislation to require DHS and ICE officers to clearly identify themselves during enforcement actions and has demanded accountability from DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, including calling for Noem’s impeachment.


Congresswoman Pou Votes Against Funding Increase for Department of Homeland Security

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Nellie Pou (D-NJ-09), a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, today voted no on H.R. 7147, the bill which provides appropriations to the Department of Homeland Security.

“Today I voted no on funding the broken Department of Homeland Security. This bill includes no new guardrails against ICE’s exploding lawlessness. It fails to guarantee due process rights and the safety and security of U.S. citizens who continue to be harassed, detained, assaulted, and even killed by masked DHS agents during their operations.

“As a Committee member, I have pushed to increase funding for important DHS grants and programs, including training and equipment for first responders and resources to secure houses of worship, to keep my constituents safe. I have fought to ensure that federal employees are performing the duties and responsibilities of those offices. Yet, we have repeatedly seen DHS illegally withhold and terminate vital security grants, while simultaneously redirecting Department employees away from their core responsibilities.

“The Department under Kristi Noem demonstrates complete contempt for the rule of law, jeopardizes the safety of countless individuals, and undermines public trust in law enforcement. From $200 million in taxpayer money used for an ad campaign benefiting an aide’s family member as part of the Secretary’s self-promotion to private jet junkets and masked agents running amok, this DHS has shown a pattern of undeniable corruption. Congress has a responsibility to take real and effective action to root out corruption, not fertilize it with additional dollars.”

Congresswoman Pou has been outspoken on DHS’ discriminatory cancellation and withholding of grants, including counterterrorism funding to New Jersey. On October 14, Pou led 11 members of New Jersey’s congressional delegation calling on U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem to restore federal security grant funding that is being slashed by the Trump administration by nearly 50 percent.

During a hearing this week, Congresswoman Pou slammed senior DHS officials over corrupt patterns, election denialism, and efforts to sideline committee members amid calls for transparency. Watch the clip here.

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Randall Votes NO on DHS Funding Package

WASHINGTON, D.C — Today, U.S. Congresswoman Emily Randall (D, WA-06) voted NO on the FY2026 government funding package for the Department of Homeland Security. Rep. Randall released the following statement:

“I voted NO on the Department of Homeland Security funding package. As a reminder – DHS is headed by Kristi Noem – who we are trying to impeach. While the package includes some wins Democratic appropriators fought for, it doesn’t do enough to provide checks and balances and true accountability for ICE, a government police force that is running rampant in the streets of Minneapolis–St. Paul and around the country.

“ICE agents are rounding people up because of the color of their skin, pulling people out of their car windows by their hair, and shooting people in the face. This is fascism, and we have to do everything we can to stop it.

“I'm going to keep fighting to impeach Secretary Noem. I'm going to keep telling the stories of our neighbors every day who are experiencing the violence that this administration is hoisting upon them.”


Raskin to Oppose Legislation to Fund ICE’s Lawless Crusade

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Jamie Raskin (MD-08) released the following statement on his intention to vote against H.R. 7147, legislation to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE):

"I join millions of Americans filled with outrage over ICE’s escalating reign of terror in our communities. Under Secretary Kristi Noem’s leadership, DHS and ICE have made all of us less safe and less free, trampling our Constitution, terrifying our people and blocking congressional oversight. I am voting to oppose this legislation to further fund Donald Trump’s DHS.

"In Maryland and across America, ICE agents are regularly intimidating, detaining, arresting, kidnapping, and shooting our people without probable cause. A great many of their targets are American citizens. ICE agents wear masks and carry weapons of war. They profile our neighbors based on how they look and speak, and they shutter schools and disrupt small businesses and workplaces in the course of their duties.

"We all saw the lawless shooting of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis by a masked ICE agent. Renee leaves behind her three beloved children and a dedicated partner. Good’s killing in cold blood and Secretary Noem’s subsequent smearing of her as a 'domestic terrorist' exemplify this Administration’s violent, lawless and shameful tactics to destroy political opposition.By opposing ICE funding, we demand justice and accountability for a brutal killing that never should have happened.

"I hear every day from my constituents in Maryland’s Eighth Congressional District who demand an end to this chaos in our community and nationwide.Our people are outraged over indiscriminate immigration raids and masked, armed federal agents harassing innocent people on their streets.

"I oppose H.R. 7147 because rather than funding Trump’s Gangster State, we must rebuild our democratic institutions, defend our Constitution and stand strong against the throes of authoritarianism. In solidarity, we will defeat the forces propelling America toward fascism."

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Reschenthaler Votes to Advance Appropriations Package Containing Funding for PA-14

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) voted to advance the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY 2026) Consolidated Appropriations Act to the Senate. The legislation contains $8.5 million, requested by Reschenthaler, to support road construction in the 14th Congressional District of Pennsylvania.

This bill represents the last set of projects requested by Reschenthaler during the FY 2026 process, totaling nearly $215 million for southwestern Pennsylvania. The legislation now awaits passage by the United States Senate and President Trump's signature.

"I was proud to vote for the FY 2026 Consolidated Appropriations Act, which reinforces the House’s commitment to regular, full-year appropriations, advances conservative priorities, and supports President Trump's agenda,” said Reschenthaler. “This package passed the House with overwhelming bipartisan support and includes the remaining Community Project Funding I requested for southwestern Pennsylvania. These projects, totaling $215 million, will modernize our locks and dams, strengthen infrastructure, and benefit law enforcement, veterans, first responders, and local communities. I look forward to the legislation being signed into law and the funding reaching the deserving recipients who will use it to improve our region."

The FY 2026 Consolidated Appropriations Act, passed today, included the following projects:

$7.0 million for the Thompson's Crossing Business Park in Fayette County, PA.

$1.5 million for the Windy Ridge Business and Technology Park Phase 3 Roadway Construction in Indiana County, PA.

Reschenthaler also secured the following Community Project Funding, which previously passed the House:

$183.8 million for the continued construction of Montgomery Lock and Dam on the Upper Ohio River.

$7.4 million for operations and maintenance on the Lower Monongahela River, Lock and Dams 2, 3, and 4.

$2.3 million for the Greene County Water Line Expansion.

$2.3 million for the Westmoreland County Transmission Line Replacement.

$1.9 million for the Indiana University of Pennsylvania College of Osteopathic Medicine.

$1.8 million for the North Fayette County Municipal Authority's Water Main Replacement Project.

$1.5 million for the Carmichaels and Cumberland Volunteer Fire Company's Aerial Acquisition.

$1.2 million for the Gunny's Ridge Veteran and First Responder Facility.

$1.1 million for the Allegheny Health Network's Life-Flight Base Station and Helipad.

$937,000 for the Ohiopyle Borough Sewage Treatment Plant Expansion.

$700,000 for the Somerset County Food Access Project.

$700,000 for the Somerset County Hazmat Building Construction.

$643,355 for the Westmoreland County Law Enforcement's Technology Upgrade.

Reschenthaler was the third-highest recipient of Community Project Funding in the FY 2026 appropriations process and has served on the House Appropriations Committee since 2021.


Congresswoman Luz Rivas Calls for ICE to be Dismantled, says it is “Broken Beyond Repair”

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29), the first Latina to represent the San Fernando Valley in Congress, released the following statement calling for Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to be dismantled:

“ICE must be dismantled. The agency has gone rogue and is broken beyond repair.

“This agency is no longer just carrying out immigration enforcement – it is carrying out Donald Trump’s anti-immigrant agenda that is unconstitutional and going far beyond its scope of power. The danger our country faces is not immigrants. The true danger is a normalization of a lower Constitutional standard that – if not checked and dismantled now – will bring historical parallels that must be prevented.

“ICE is not just a bad agency – it is a threat to our public safety that uses violence as a predictable outcome, not a lone incident. In the San Fernando Valley and across the country, ICE continues to tear families apart; brutally detain U.S. citizens, immigrants, and children; and instigate violent clashes with members of the community. Over 40 people have died as a result of ICE’s violent and inhumane practices, including Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis. The only way we can truly protect our communities from the terror of ICE is if it is dismantled.

“For our Constitutional integrity and the safety of my community and immigrant communities across the country, dismantle ICE – now.”

Background:

Congresswoman Rivas has been an active leader in demanding for accountability into ICE. She has conducted oversight visits to ICE detention center facilities in Southern California and has demanded answers from ICE on their treatment of detainees.

On August 29, 2025, Congresswoman Rivas introduced H.R. 5073, the Immigration Notification for Facility Oversight and Relocation Management (INFORM) Act, which will require that, within 24 hours, ICE must notify the immediate family member of a detainee if the detainee is transferred to another detention center.

Currently, H.R. 5073, the INFORM Act, has the endorsement of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Congressional Progressive Caucus, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA), Bet Tzedek, Immigrant Defenders Law Center (ImmDef), and Central American Resource Center (CARECEN).

On January 9, 2026, Rep. Rivas co-signed a letter by Rep. Ilhan Omar (MN-05) to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem and ICE Acting Director Lyons demanding a full and transparent investigation on the shooting of Renee Nicole Good.

On January 13, 2026, Congresswoman Rivas co-sponsored Congresswoman Robin Kelly’s (IL-02) Articles of Impeachment against DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. In addition, Congresswoman Rivas signed a letter led by Rep. Delia Ramirez (IL-03) to Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan (OH-04) asking for a full and thorough investigation into Secretary Noem's unlawful and potentially impeachable actions.

On January 21, 2026, Congresswoman Rivas announced that she will not vote to continue funding for DHS and ICE.

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Health insurance CEO can’t commit to safe AI practices in Congressional hearing

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Rep Robin Kelly (IL-02), member of the Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, forcefully questioned UnitedHealth Group CEO Stephen Hemsley over his company’s authorization process. Over the last five years, there’s been an increase in reports of inappropriate AI authorization denials by UnitedHealth Group, one of the nation’s largest health insurance companies. In some cases, UnitedHealth Group's denial rate was 16 times higher than typical.

“I was deeply disappointed by United Healthcare’s inability to respond to my basic question of who determines health insurance denials. Mr. Hemsley could not assert whether AI is still improperly denying healthcare insurance claims,” said. Rep. Kelly. “As health insurance companies turn to AI technology, we must ensure that physicians and science-backed medicine guide all decisions. The Trump administration has gutted and broken our healthcare system, resulting in millions of Americans losing their coverage. Health insurance companies should not compound this healthcare crisis by weaponizing AI to deny Americans essential care.”

Rep. Kelly is also co-chair of the bipartisan Digital Health Caucus.


Rep. Kelly urges nationwide, year-round E-15 for farmers in funding package

WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) released the below statement urging Congressional Republicans to pass nationwide, year-round E-15 in today’s three-bill funding package. In 2024, Republicans backed out of a bipartisan deal, pulling E-15 out of the year-end funding bill.

“Speaker Johnson and Senate Majority Leader Thune should grow a spine and stick to the bipartisan deal funding nationwide, year-round E-15. But once again, they’re cowing to President Trump’s demands to curry favor with major oil and gas companies,” said Rep. Kelly. “Our farmers in Illinois and across the country are ready to enhance our nation’s energy supply, reduce emissions, and lower fuel costs for all Americans. Instead, President Trump is more focused on buying Greenland, running Venezuela for oil interests, and bailing out Argentine farmers. Farmers already have to navigate President Trump’s challenging tariffs on top of rising costs and a lackluster Farm Bill. Let’s secure E-15 sales all year, nationwide.”

Rep. Kelly is a cosponsor of the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, which would require year-round sales of E15. Her district covers urban, suburban, and rural areas with over 4,500 farms.


Rep. Kelly voted no on ICE funding

WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02), who is leading impeachment efforts against Secretary Kristi Noem, voted against the Homeland Security funding bill that provides more money to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

“Secretary Noem has weaponized DHS and her ICE agents, allowing them to run amok in our cities. I refuse to fund her reign of terror,” said Rep. Kelly. “I’m using every tool at my disposal, including impeachment and Congress’s power of the purse, to hold Secretary Noem accountable for violating our Constitution. President Trump’s Big Ugly Law already gave ICE $75 billion, and Operation Midway Blitz wreaked havoc on Chicago. This funding bill only gives more to ICE so they can arrest people without warrants, violate people’s civil rights, and ignore due process. For all these reasons, I voted NO.”

Rep. Kelly voted for the three-bill minibus, which includes funding for the Department of Defense, Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the Department of Labor, Health and Human Services. Included in the health bill is Rep. Kelly’s legislation to prevent preterm births. The housing bill also included eight of Rep. Kelly’s community projects for a total of $12,954,000.

“I’m proud to bring back nearly $13 million to my constituents to fund critical projects, including workforce development program, revitalization and infrastructure projects, and safety improvements,” said Rep. Kelly. “For my constituents, I will always work across the aisle to bring back federal funds for projects that will directly help people thrive in the Second District.”

Eight of Rep. Kelly’s submissions for community project funds were included in the Department of HUD funding bill for a total of $12,954,000:

1. Project: Station Displays Across Chicago's South Side and Suburbs Project

Summary: Funds will help purchase and install visual information sign displays at Metra stations

Amount in Final Bill: $250,000

2. Project: Paxton Downtown Streetscape

Summary: Funds will go toward streetscape improvements on South Market Street.

Amount in Final Bill: $850,000

3. Project: 100th St Bridge over the Calumet River

Summary: Funds will help repair the 100th Street bridge over the Calumet River.

Amount in Final Bill: $850,000

4. Project: Prairie State College Workforce Development Education Expansion

Summary: Funds will expand Prairie State College’s workforce development training facilities.

Amount in Final Bill: $250,000

5. Project: Jackson Park Safety and Accessibility Improvements Project

Summary: Funds will enhance the safety and accessibility of Jackson Park in Chicago

Amount in Final Bill: $1,200,000

6. Project: South Holland Neighborhood Revitalization Project

Summary: Funds will establish a revolving pilot program that will allow Village of South Holland to acquire and stabilize approximately 145 vacant homes in preparation for sales.

Amount in Final Bill: $500,000

7. Project: J Broadmeadow Road Extension Project

Summary: Funds will extend Broadmeadow Road in Rantoul, Illinois.

Amount in Final Bill: $850,000

8. Project: Hazel Crest Water/Sewer Renewal Program

Summary: Funds will renew and rehabilitate water and sewer infrastructure in Hazel Crest, Illinois.

Amount in Final Bill: $850,000


Congresswoman Ross Statement on DHS Funding Bill

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) voted against the Department of Homeland Security appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY 26). She released the following statement:

“Like many Americans, I am deeply disturbed by the shameful actions we have seen from federal immigration agents in North Carolina and across the country. Masked agents descended on our cities, terrorized law-abiding citizens, abducted people off the streets, and even killed a U.S. citizen – all without any oversight or accountability. Although this bill includes some reforms, the Republican leadership refused to include critical priorities, including provisions that would fund body cameras, prevent CBP and ICE from deporting U.S. citizens, and more.

“Furthermore, while this bill includes urgently-needed funding for FEMA, these resources are completely insufficient to meet needs of Western North Carolina. As Governor Stein made clear during his recent visit to the Capitol, our state needs more than $13 billion in federal funding to recover from the devastation that Hurricane Helene inflicted more than a year ago. I continue to call for emergency supplemental funding legislation to help families and communities in our state still struggling to rebuild.

“Again, I could not vote in good conscience for this legislation while our communities are under attack and while our state continues to wait for the help it was promised by the Trump administration.”

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House Passes Congresswoman Ross Bill to Combat Harmful PBM Practices & Lower Prescription Drug Prices

Washington, D.C. — Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a partial appropriations package for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY 26), including portions of Congresswoman Deborah Ross’ (NC-02) bipartisan PBM Reform Act. This legislation will protect patients and pharmacies from the harmful and anticompetitive business practices of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs).

“For too long, PBMs have acted as unregulated middlemen, driving up the prices of life-saving medications for patients,” said Congresswoman Ross. “Nobody should have to choose between paying for necessary prescriptions and putting food on the table. At a time when health care costs continue to skyrocket, our bipartisan PBM Reform Act will reign in abusive PBM practices and take real steps to lower prescription drug prices. I urge the Senate to act quickly to pass this urgently-needed legislation.”

Portions of the PBM Reform Act passed as part of this appropriations package include:

Establish new requirements for PBMs under Medicare Part D, including a policy to delink PBM compensation from the cost of medications and increase transparency.

Promote transparency for both employers and patients in their prescription drug plans, with semi-annual reporting on drug spending, rebates, and formulary determinations.

Require Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to define and enforce "reasonable and relevant" contract terms in Medicare Part D pharmacy contracts and enforce oversight on reported violations.

In July, Congresswoman Ross introduced the PBM Reform Act along with 11 bipartisan members of Congress, including Representatives Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Greg Murphy (R-NC), Jodey Arrington (R-TX), Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX), Rick Allen (R-GA), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), John Rose (R-TN), Derek Tran (D-CA), and Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY).

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Salazar Advances Bipartisan Caribbean Security Bill to the House Floor

Washington, D.C. — Yesterday, during a markup of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar (FL-27) advanced H.R. 4368, the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative Authorization Act, bipartisan legislation she introduced alongside Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) to strengthen U.S.–Caribbean security cooperation and counter criminal and authoritarian threats in the region. The committee approved an amended version of the bill, sending it to the House floor for consideration.

The legislation authorizes and modernizes the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI) to strengthen maritime and border security, combat transnational organized crime, disrupt illicit financial networks, enhance law enforcement and prosecutorial capacity, fight corruption, and improve resilience to natural disasters across the Caribbean.

“After cutting off the economic oxygen sustaining Maduro’s regime, the United States is back where it belongs in the Caribbean, standing shoulder to shoulder with our partners and taking on criminal networks,” said Rep. María Elvira Salazar. “But the work is not finished. Transnational gangs, narco-traffickers, and corrupt networks, backed by Communist Cuba, Communist China, Russia, and Iran, continue to undermine the rule of law across the region. This bill draws a clear line: the Caribbean is not for sale. It strengthens security, confronts corruption, and makes clear that America, not Beijing or Havana, is the partner of choice in our hemisphere. America First means the Americas first.”

The legislation prioritizes cooperation with democratic allies such as the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Guyana, while rejecting partnerships with dictators and authoritarian regimes.

The Caribbean Basin Security Initiative Authorization Act reinforces the United States’ long-term commitment to safeguarding the Western Hemisphere by codifying and expanding CBSI’s mission to address today’s evolving threats. In addition to countering transnational criminal organizations and corruption, the bill confronts malign influence from authoritarian regimes and strengthens regional resilience to natural disasters, advancing a foreign policy rooted in security, freedom, and shared prosperity.

Throughout her time in Congress, Representative Salazar has been a strong advocate for the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, recognizing it as a vital tool for strengthening U.S.–Caribbean partnerships and confronting the evolving security challenges facing the region.

You can watch Representative Salazar's full remarks here.

Background:

The Caribbean region remains highly vulnerable to the destabilizing effects of drug trafficking, human smuggling, and transnational criminal networks. Established in 2010, the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative has played a critical role in helping partner nations strengthen their capacity to combat organized crime, improve citizen safety, and reinforce the rule of law.

H.R. 4368 provides long-term authorization for CBSI, promoting civilian safety and regional stability by enhancing law enforcement and maritime capabilities, strengthening strategic cooperation, and bolstering local justice systems, while ensuring the United States remains the leading security partner in the Western Hemisphere.


Rep. Andrea Salinas’ Statement on Voting Against DHS and DoD Spending Bills

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) issued the following statement following her vote opposing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of Defense (DoD) appropriations bills.

“I voted against bills to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Defense (DoD). ICE has instilled terror in our communities, detained children, and violated due process and Fourth Amendment rights. Their violent tactics have resulted in the deaths of immigrants and U.S. citizens, and ICE continues to lie to Congress and the public about their actions. I will not vote to fund this unlawful behavior.

“As part of a good-faith effort to improve the bill and protect my community, I introduced two amendments to the DHS appropriations package: one to prohibit ICE from using funds for warrantless arrests and the detention of U.S. citizens, and another to block funding for any detention facility in Oregon. Unfortunately, Republicans refused to consider my amendments.

“Additionally, I voted against the DoD appropriations bill. While I support pieces of the package, including the education and mental health funding, I cannot support taxpayer funding for the Department of Defense and President Trump’s out of control actions, such as illegal military operations on foreign soil.

“The Trump Administration has failed to protect Americans. Instead, their reckless actions have made America less safe by undermining congressional authority and eroding the fabric of our Constitution. To defend our rights and safety, I voted against these bills.”


SCHNEIDER OPPOSES FUNDING BILL THAT FAILS TO REIN IN ICE

WASHINGTON – Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10), a member of the House Ways and Means and Foreign Affairs Committees, released the following statement on his vote against legislation funding the Department of Homeland Security:

“Two weeks ago, Renee Nicole Good—a loving wife, mother, and US citizen—was needlessly gunned down by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. Last fall, an ICE officer shot and killed a man in Chicago, and another officer shot a woman five times in her leg. Thousands of Illinoisans have contacted my office in fear for their families and in outrage for our nation in the wake of these horrific events.

“People are right to be outraged – I share their outrage. ICE is totally out of control.

“In the land of the free, the home of the brave, we cannot let stand a status quo that has permitted and even empowered ICE agents to wreak havoc on our communities, to scare our children, and to terrorize—and even kill—our neighbors.

“Today, the House considered legislation to fund the Department of Homeland Security, including ICE. I voted no.

“We need to force a real change in ICE actions around the country.

“We need to establish real, enforceable guardrails around ICE’s actions.

“We need to ensure real accountability for ICE and DHS leadership.

“And we need to reestablish proper Congressional oversight over ICE’s behavior.

“The Homeland Security funding bill failed to do any of that. Instead, it will allow ICE to continue its reign of terror unchecked.

“DHS and ICE should be focused on securing our borders and keeping the American people and our communities safe. That means real action, bound by the law and the protections of our Constitution, that keeps violent criminals, gang members, and drug dealers off our streets. But instead of targeting hardened criminals, ICE is far too often targeting hardworking people, without regard for their constitutional rights and basic dignity.

“I encourage my colleagues in the US Senate to reject and reform this legislation, so that we can hold ICE accountable and provide communities across the nation the peace, safety, and security they deserve.”

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Rep. Scholten Statement on Voting No on Department of Homeland Security Funding

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) released the following statement after voting against the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2026:

“I cannot in good conscience support today’s DHS funding bill that gives power to rogue and unaccountable federal enforcement agents. As a former Department of Justice attorney who worked on immigration enforcement issues at our nation’s top law enforcement agency, I take national security and border safety seriously. I have cast tough, responsible votes to ensure our borders are secure and our nation is protected.

“The Department of Homeland Security plays a critical role in domestic and national security, as well as emergency preparedness, and those functions should be funded. But far too many Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are operating outside of the rule of law—terrorizing communities and even killing United States citizens.

“Enough is enough. Our job here in Congress is to provide a check on the other branches of government and on the agencies under them. That means funding the critical functions of DHS but also demanding accountability when enforcement actions put innocent lives at risk and undermine trust in law enforcement.

“While this funding bill passed, it did not pass with my vote, nor did it pass with the support of West Michiganders, who want to see secure borders and enforcement that lives up to the rule of law.”

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Reps. Scholten, Bresnahan Introduce Bipartisan Fatigued Pilot Protection Act to Improve Aviation Safety

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03), alongside Congressman Rob Bresnahan (R-PA-08), introduced the Fatigued Pilot Protection Act to close a long-standing gap in aviation safety rules and ensure all commercial pilots operate under the same rest standards. Under current law, cargo pilots are held to different rest and duty limits than passenger pilots, a loophole known as the “cargo carveout.” While both fly in the same airspace and face the same safety risks, only passenger pilots are guaranteed modern, science-based protections against fatigue.

“The bottom line is simple: tired pilots put lives at risk, including their own,” said Rep. Scholten. “Whether a plane is carrying people or cargo, pilot fatigue is dangerous in the skies. No pilot should be asked to fly while exhausted, and no family should worry that outdated rules put safety second. We’ve known for years that rest matters, and our aviation safety rules should reflect that. This bill makes sure every commercial pilot has the rest they need to keep our skies safe.”

“Airline safety should apply to everyone, whether a pilot is flying people or packages,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “As a pilot myself, I know fatigue is a proven safety risk, and when pilots are pushed beyond safe limits, it puts their crews, communities on the ground, and the entire aviation system at risk.”

“The introduction of this bill ensures that the FAA’s flight duty and rest requirements equally apply to both all-cargo carriers and passenger carriers alike,” said Independent Pilots Association President, Captain Robert Travis. “Thank you to Representatives Scholten and Bresnahan for recognizing this dangerous commercial aviation safety gap by seeking to end the 'cargo carve out' and bring FAR Part 117 back in line with the original intent of Congress; one level of safety for U.S. aviation.”

In 2014, the Federal Aviation Administration implemented updated rules, known as FAR Part 117, to limit how long passenger pilots can fly and require adequate rest between shifts. These rules were based on decades of research on sleep, fatigue, and how the human body responds to long and irregular work hours. It was the first major update to pilot rest standards in more than 60 years and was prompted by several deadly crashes where fatigue played a role.

Cargo pilots were originally included in these updated standards, but were ultimately excluded before the rule took effect. As a result, the aviation system now operates under two different safety standards. The Fatigued Pilot Protection Act would eliminate the cargo carveout and apply the same flight time and rest requirements to cargo pilots as passenger pilots, creating one clear, consistent safety standard across commercial aviation.

The risks of this double standard are real. In 2013, a cargo plane crashed shortly after takeoff in Birmingham, Alabama, killing two crew members. Investigators later found that pilot fatigue was a contributing factor, and cockpit recordings captured the crew discussing how exhausted they were just before the flight. More recently, in 2025, a tragic cargo plane crash–although not related to pilot fatigue in particular–illustrated how safety across the airspace is critical to the well-being of all pilots, crews, and consumers.

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Congresswoman Schrier Statement on Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Appropriations Package Vote

Congresswoman Schrier released the following statement after voting against the Department of Homeland Security appropriations bill:

“Protecting our national security is a paramount responsibility that I take very seriously. That is why I have a long record of ensuring the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has the resources it needs to keep our nation safe.

“But what we are seeing now is a sharp and dangerous departure from the regular rule of law. The Trump Administration has weaponized the DHS-run Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) against the American people. The Administration promised to deport the worst of the worst, and instead, ICE is now terrorizing communities – killing American citizens, ripping families apart, and sowing fear. This is not what ICE and other law enforcement should be used for. Their actions are causing long-term harm that will be felt for decades after the Trump Administration leaves by undermining the trust that has been built between local law enforcement and the communities they protect.

“ICE is out of control and needs to be reined in through substantial measures that build accountability, transparency, and restore trust–especially in the wake of the horrific killing of a U.S. citizen that we saw in Minnesota. The package we voted on today fails to take even the most straightforward measures I’ve already called for to ensure accountability, like banning masks and other disguises, requiring officers to identify themselves, and mandating the use of body-worn cameras. Instead, it gives this agency more money without necessary guardrails, further enabling rogue and dangerous behavior that instills fear. That is why I voted against this DHS appropriations package.”


Peters To Vote Against Funding For ICE

Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Scott Peters (CA-50) released the following statement ahead of the House vote for the fiscal year 2026 Department of Homeland Security Appropriations bill. Included in the bill is funding for the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

“ICE was created for the orderly enforcement of our immigration laws, and President Trump promised to use it to find and deport dangerous criminals. It was never meant to operate as a militarized force in and against our neighborhoods, yet that is exactly what it has become. Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, ICE’s budget has exploded, making it the highest-funded law enforcement agency in the federal government, with roughly $85 billion at its disposal. Fueled by the so-called ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’, the ICE budget is larger than the United States Marine Corps and many of the world’s militaries. With this funding, ICE has delivered nothing but fear and chaos. Families are ripped apart, civil rights are ignored, and communities have become less safe.

“In May, ICE agents stormed Buona Forchetta, a small neighborhood restaurant in my district. They slammed the owner against a wall, handcuffed employees, and deployed flash-bang grenades on bystanders outside. All to apprehend four peaceful, hardworking dishwashers, not violent criminals or drug kingpins. Schools, small businesses, families, and children have all been caught in the crossfire of ICE’s reckless tactics. How is this making anyone safer? It’s not.

“ICE still lacks meaningful standards to remove violent criminals from our streets. Instead, the agency is obsessed with arrest quotas, chasing an arbitrary goal of 3,000 arrests a day, and sweeping up everyone in their path, including children and U.S. citizens. This is far from Trump’s promise to target dangerous criminals. It’s sloppy, dangerous, and irresponsible.

“And despite all the funding, ICE officers are not trained to observe the basic standards and procedures followed by our local police and sheriffs. Last year, I introduced the Stop Excessive Force in Immigration Act. This legislation would rein in ICE through strict limits on the use of military-style equipment like tear gas and flash-bangs and masks, requirements for always-on body cameras and for agents to render medical aid and intervene when colleagues act unlawfully, and increased training so agents can actually de-escalate. If these standards had been in place, Renee Good might still be alive, and American communities from Boston to Minneapolis to San Diego wouldn’t be bracing for the next unaccountable ICE operation.

“The American people want a secure border and safety, accountability, and common sense from agents in our communities, not more arrests, more brutality, or more blank checks. ICE doesn’t need more money, and it certainly won’t be getting my vote.”

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Rep. Peters Helps Pass Funding Package to Invest in San Diego’s Infrastructure, Research, and Servicemembers

Washington, D.C.– Today, Congressman Scott Peters (CA-50) released the following statement after the House passed a package of three more funding bills for Fiscal Year 2026; Labor-HHS, Transportation-HUD, and Defense Appropriations Act. Included in the language of these bills were nine of Rep. Peters’ Community Project Funding (CPF) requests. The package, including CPF requests, is subject to change as the legislation moves to the Senate.

“This is what governing looks like,” said Rep. Peters. “Congress coming together to keep the government open and make practical investments for hard-working families. For San Diego, that includes supporting our world-class research institutions, strengthening our military community, expanding housing access, and protecting public health. That’s the kind of results-driven governing my constituents deserve.”

Highlights of the package include:

Invests $116 million towards San Diego’s defense economy, including research into the next generation of unmanned systems and research at Scripps Research Institute.

Increases funding for medical research by $1.7 billion to develop treatments for cancer, disease, and service-related injuries.

Rejects President Trump’s push for a 15 percent cap on indirect costs, including rent, acquiring and maintaining lab equipment, security, data processing, and storage. Indirect funding to San Diego from the NIH has helped pave the way toward tests and treatments for Alzheimer’s, cancer, rare diseases, and more.

Provides $170 million for child care grants and childhood education programs, such as Head Start. This will provide hard-working families in San Diego and across the country with access to early childhood education and child care.

Increases Homeless Assistance Grant funding by $366 million, helping cities like San Diego reinforce efforts to combat homelessness.

Improvements to our aviation system by providing $18.6 billion for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), supporting busy airports like San Diego International Airport. The funding will expand the air traffic controller workforce, improve facilities and equipment, and modernize the nation’s air traffic control towers nationwide.

Fully funds the 3.8 percent pay raise for military personnel, including over 110,000 in San Diego.

$130 million in additional funding to improving Marine Corps Barracks.

Supports lifesaving biomedical research by providing an increase of more than $400 million above the 2025 level for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), including increases for research to develop cures or treatments for cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, ALS, Diabetes, and a $30 million funding boost for the Office of Research on Women’s Health.

Invests in the security of our allies abroad, including Ukraine, Taiwan, and Israel.

Also included in the package were nine Community Project Funding requests led by Rep. Peters for FY 2026 funding, totaling more than $7.15 million.

“San Diego is a thriving, innovative city, and our infrastructure needs to keep pace with that growth,” said Rep. Peters. “These projects reflect what I hear directly from local leaders and residents, ensuring San Diego remains a great place to live and work for decades to come. I’ll keep working with my colleagues in Washington to deliver for my constituents here at home.”

Community Project Funding requests made by Rep. Peters include:

LOSSAN Rail Bridge Replacement Project—$2,000,000

The funding would be used to replace three old wooden railway bridges at Railroad Mile Post, providing reliable access to jobs in San Diego as well as freight access to maintain goods movement in the region.

San Diego Safe Sleeping Pilot Program—$1,200,000

The funding would be used to purchase materials to maintain and expand the City’s program to offer non-congregate shelter options to homeless San Diegans at City-owned sites.

Downtown Escondido Economic Development Project—$1,000,000

The funding would be used to enhance comfort and accessibility for shoppers and diners, including improved crossings, widening sidewalks, and a traffic circle at Maple Street to calm traffic and improve safety. Similar projects have shown economic benefits of 12% decrease in retail vacancies and 20-30% increase in retail sales.

La Jolla Streetscape Project—$850,000

The funding would be used to improve infrastructure, expand pedestrian spaces, calm traffic, add stormwater drainage channels, enhance walkability, improve lighting, and add landscaping. The project will improve infrastructure and overall quality of life in the local community.

Mission Road Lighting Project—$850,000

The funding would be used to install pedestrian lighting along the Inland Rail Trail within the Richmar Neighborhood of San Marcos. It will enhance access to public transportation and improve safety for those traveling at night.

San Marcos Comprehensive Park Restroom Upgrades Project—$500,000

The funding would be used to restore 27 city park restroom facilities. The project will promote the use of public areas and allow people to safely access necessary public facilities.

North County Transit District Bus Stop Security and Enhancement Project—$250,000

The funding would be used to construct 20 bus shelters to improve accessibility and ensure riders with disabilities can easily utilize bus services.

Port of San Diego’s B Street and Broadway Piers Infrastructure Maintenance—$250,000

The funding would be used to support operations at the Port of San Diego’s two visitor-serving cruise ship terminals, B Street Pier and Broadway Pier. The boarding bridges at these terminals provide safe and convenient boarding and disembarking for cruise passengers. In the next few years, the cruise ship passengers coming through the port are forecasted to double, which in turn will increase the economic impact to the region.

San Diego Airport Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Station Modernization— $250,000

The funding would be used to design a rehabilitated and reconstructed ARFF facility at San Diego International Airport (SAN). The current facility is outdated and no longer meets the operational and safety standards required.

Community Project Funding enables Members of Congress to advocate directly for local priorities, ensuring transparency and accountability. To see more about Rep. Peters’ FY26 requests, click here.

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Rep. Sewell Celebrates House Passage of the Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act

Washington D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) celebrated House passage of H.R. 842, the Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) Screening Coverage Act . The legislation—led by Reps. Sewell and Jodey Arrington (TX-19)—was included in a package of Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills which passed the House today by a bipartisan vote of 341 to 88.

Watch Rep. Sewell’s remarks on YouTube here.

“Today, the House took a major bipartisan step toward giving our seniors their best shot at catching cancer early," celebrated Rep. Sewell. "I am overjoyed that the House passed our bipartisan bill, the Nancy Gardner Sewell MCED Act. This critical milestone is years in the making, and was only made possible thanks to the efforts of amazing organizations, survivors, and patient advocates."

"I am especially grateful to Congressman Arrington for his close partnership and for naming the bill after my mother, the late Nancy Gardner Sewell," continued Sewell. "I know that she would be immensely proud of the work we are doing to provide greater access early detection cancer screenings. Her legacy will live on in the millions of Americans whose lives will be changed this legislation.”

Thanks to cutting-edge scientific advancements, new MCED screenings are emerging which hold the potential to detect dozens of forms of cancer with a simple blood test. Currently, 70% of cancer deaths occur in cancers with no screening. Under current law, it could take more than a decade before Medicare has the authority to cover these screenings once they are FDA approved. The Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare MCED Screening Coverage Act would create a pathway for Medicare to cover MCED screenings once they are FDA approved.

Specifically, this legislation would:

Create the authority for CMS to cover blood-based MCED tests and future test methods once approved by the FDA and shown to have clinical benefit.

Maintain CMS’ authority to use an evidence-based process to determine coverage parameters for these new tests.

Clarify that (1) these new tools will complement, not replace, existing screenings and coverage and (2) cost sharing will not be impacted.

In the 118th Congress, the bill’s lead Republican sponsor, Rep. Jodey Arrington, surprised Rep. Sewell by naming it after her mother, the late Nancy Gardner Sewell, who lost her battle to pancreatic cancer in June 2021. Prior to its passage, the Nancy Gardner Sewell MCED Screening Coverage Act was the most co-sponsored bill in the 119th Congress, with 339 House co-sponsors and 68 Senate co-sponsors.

Major health organizations also celebrated its passage in the House:

“We are thrilled for final passage in the House of the Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act in the package,” said Lisa Lacasse, president of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN). “This wouldn’t have been possible without the bipartisan leadership of Representative Terri Sewell (D-AL) and Representative Jodey Arrington (R-TX) as well as Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Mike Bennet (D-CO). ACS CAN strongly urges the Senate to pass this package which brings us one step closer to ending cancer as we know it, for everyone.”

“Pancreatic cancer remains the deadliest major cancer and the only one with a five-year survival rate below 20%. Because symptoms are often vague and mimic other conditions, most patients are diagnosed in the later stages, when tumors are inoperable and treatment options are limited. Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) blood tests will enable earlier detection when the disease is more treatable, but these tests must be accessible and affordable to change patient outcomes,” said Julie Fleshman, JD, MBA, PanCAN President and Chief Executive Officer. The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network applauds Congress for including the Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act (H.R. 842) in the bicameral, bipartisan minibus appropriations package. Passage in the House is an encouraging step, and we look forward to final passage in the Senate.”

“Today marks a historic milestone in cancer prevention and early detection,” said Jody Hoyos, CEO of the Prevent Cancer Foundation. “With the passage of this legislation, groundbreaking multi-cancer early detection tests have a path forward to reach older Americans, bringing lifesaving innovation to those who need it most. This achievement reflects unprecedented, bipartisan collaboration and the dedication of hundreds of organizations working together to ensure that early detection saves lives and reduces long-standing health inequities. We celebrate this moment and move closer to a future where cancer is preventable, detectable and beatable for all.”

“For the thousands of women and families we serve, early detection isn't just a medical goal—it’s a lifeline,” said Bethany Black, Executive Director of the Laura Crandall Brown Foundation in Alabama. “The Laura Crandall Brown Foundation wants to extend its deepest thanks to Congresswoman Sewell for her leadership and tireless effort on the MCED bill in Washington. Her advocacy helps bridge the gap between innovative science and the patients who need it most.”

The bill now heads to the U.S. Senate where Rep. Sewell urged its quick consideration and passage.

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Rep. Sewell Secures $5.5 Million in Direct Funding for Alabama's 7th Congressional District in House-Passed Spending Package

Funding bills reject Trump's draconian cuts and reassert Congress' power of the purse

Washington D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to pass three Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 appropriations bills: the FY26 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, the FY26 Defense Appropriations Act, and the FY26 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. The package includes $5.5 million in direct funding that Rep. Sewell secured for nine local projects in Alabama's 7th Congressional District.

"I am thrilled that the funding package passed today includes $5.5 million to support nine projects right here in Alabama's 7th Congressional District," said Rep. Sewell. "From Birmingham to Tuscaloosa and the Black Belt, these investments will fund essential infrastructure, expand economic opportunity, and improve the quality of life for every day families. I look forward to seeing the lasting impact that these federal dollars have in our communities!"

The projects include:

$250,000 for improvements to Craig Field Airport in Selma, including upgrades to the precision approach path indicating system, taxiway and runway signage, and parking asphalt repairs;

$1,656,000 for the City of Selma to revitalize Alabama Avenue by assessing, renovating, and converting fourteen existing buildings;

$500,000 for Auburn University to construct ten prototype "resilient homes" in Selma made from high-performance materials to withstand extreme weather elements;

$850,000 for the Bessemer Housing Authority toward construction of a multi-purpose community center;

$250,000 for the City of Homewood to upgrade and expand culvert capacity in the neighborhoods surrounding Edgewood Elementary School;

$250,000 for the Jefferson County Greenway Commission to upgrade and renovate the entrance and guest parking lot of Red Mountain Park;

$700,000 for the City of Pleasant Grove to install 2.57 miles of new sidewalks, strategically add pedestrian lighting, and repair 1.26 miles of deteriorated sidewalk;

$850,000 for the City of Hueytown to improve roadways and walkways in the community by resurfacing streets and installing new sidewalks; and

$250,000 for the City of Tuscaloosa toward upgrades and renovations to the infrastructure of the Tuscaloosa Public Library.

That is in addition to more than $4 million that Rep. Sewell already secured for local projects in previously passed FY26 appropriations bills, including:

$750,000 to strengthen public safety in the City of Brighton by equipping local law enforcement with updated materials and tools, improving emergency response, supporting crime prevention efforts, and helping residents feel more secure in their community.

$500,000 to transform the Marion National Guard Armory, into a multi-purpose community center offering workforce development training, a temporary shelter for families during emergencies, and a community hub for the deployment and distribution of essential supplies;

$1,015,000 for Rural Health Medical Program, Inc. (RHMPI) to renovate the Uniontown Health Center by upgrading clinical equipment, labs, X-ray capabilities, and IT systems, and by enhancing the roads and parking facilities around the center;

$1,000,000 to construct a new joint police and volunteer fire station in Aliceville, helping first responders better serve the residents of Pickens County and West Alabama; and

$750,000 for the Sumter County Commission for a new community center where residents of all ages can gather, connect, and engage in activities that promote community empowerment and resilience.

Rep. Sewell successfully led the effort to restore and increase appropriations for pancreatic cancer research in the FY26 defense bill after funding for the program was completely eliminated in FY25 under Republicans' continuing resolution. Sewell secured a historic $20 million for the program, a $5 million increase from FY24 funding levels.

The package passed today reflects Democrats' commitment to reasserting Congress' power of the purse. Sewell and her colleagues successfully defeated extreme cuts proposed by the Trump Administration and secured key investments in public health, affordable housing, childcare, and military personnel. The funding package passed today:

Increases funding for NIH by $400 million, including research to develop treatments and cures for cancer, Alzheimer's, ALS, Diabetes, and other diseases;

Rejects proposed cuts to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), increases funding for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by $15 million and State Opioid Response Grants by $20 million;

Increases funding for Child Care and Head Start by $170 million, helping provide hard-working families access to early childhood education and childcare;

Provides $66.6 billion in funding for rental assistance programs, rejecting President Trump’s efforts to slash funding for these programs by 50 percent;

Provides $18.6 billion for the FAA, an increase of $1.6 billion, including funding to expand the air traffic controller workforce by 2,500 personnel, improve facilities and equipment, and modernize the nation’s air traffic control towers;

Increases funding for medical research by $1.7 billion, including $1.3 billion for Congressionally Directed Medical Research Projects (CDMRP) that support efforts to develop treatments for cancer, disease, and service-related injuries; and

Fully funds the 3.8 percent pay raise for military personnel.

"After a year of chaos from the Trump Administration and a record-long Republican shutdown, I'm encouraged that House Republicans have finally joined Democrats and returned to the regular appropriations process," continued Sewell. "It is my hope that we can continue working together to responsibly fund the government and avert another costly shutdown."

The package now heads to the U.S. Senate where Rep. Sewell urged its quick consideration and passage.

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Over 3,000 Join Sherman Telephone Town Hall Reviewing Trump’s First Year in Office: ICE, Greenland, and What Comes Next

SHERMAN OAKS, CA – On January 21st, Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-32) hosted his first live Telephone Town Hall of the year, with more than 3,000 residents dialing in to react to the Trump administration’s first year in office and the challenges moving forward.

“I’m grateful to the thousands of residents who joined our first town hall of the year,” Sherman said. “One year into this administration, we’ve seen chaos, overreach, and a disregard for both civil liberties and international norms. Staying connected with constituents is essential as we work to confront these challenges and prepare for what lies ahead.”

In his opening remarks, Sherman reviewed the Trump administration’s record over the past year, focusing on aggressive immigration enforcement policies that have torn families apart and spread fear throughout Los Angeles–area communities and beyond. He addressed widespread outrage following the fatal shooting of Minnesota mother Renee Good by an ICE officer earlier this month, calling the incident a tragic consequence of an administration that has abandoned oversight and restraint. Sherman said he will refuse to vote for any federal appropriations bill that funds ICE and noted that he has joined efforts to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, whom he has described as the “worst cabinet secretary in U.S. history.”

Sherman also discussed what he described as reckless actions by the Trump administration on the world stage, including repeated threats and rhetoric regarding Greenland. As a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Sherman warned that such actions undermine U.S. alliances as well as global peace and security. Congressman Sherman highlighted his recent unveiling of the “Hands Off Greenland” Act to block any unilateral effort to seize or acquire the territory.

Throughout the event, Sherman answered questions and addressed concerns about immigration enforcement, rising costs, threats to civil rights, and the broader direction of the country under the Trump administration. He reiterated his commitment to holding the administration accountable and continuing to fight for the values and interests of California’s communities.

The Town Hall also featured California Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo, representing the Northwest San Fernando Valley in the 40th Assembly District, as a special guest. Assemblymember Schiavo discussed priorities in the State Legislature and the importance of coordination between state and federal leaders to protect families and uphold fundamental rights during a period of political uncertainty.

During the Town Hall, Sherman requested input from residents by asking a series of survey questions about their thoughts and concerns.

The results of the survey questions are as follows:

- Should the House of Representatives debate articles of impeachment against Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem?

Yes: 91%

No: 6%

Unsure: 4%

-Do you support or oppose President Trump’s proposal to annex Greenland, including by force?

Support: 7%

Oppose: 88%

Unsure: 6%

-Should your Member of Congress vote in favor of any new funding for the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)?

Yes, fund ICE: 4%

No, vote against ICE funding: 93%

Unsure: 3%

-Who deserves more of the blame for America’s affordability crisis?


Ag Vice Ranking Member Brown Blasts Backroom Deal to Block Year-round E15

Washington, DC – Today, House Committee on Agriculture Vice Ranking Member Congresswoman Shontel Brown criticized House Republicans for cutting a deal that strips year-round E15 from must-pass spending legislation and instead creates a task force to study the issue.

“This is shameful backroom dealing – plain and simple. Instead of acting on year-round E15, House Republicans punted on the issue and created a meaningless task force to study the issue. Midwest farmers don’t need another study or a new task force, and American families don’t need more delays while they pay higher prices at the pump. Farmers need market certainty and families need lower energy costs. Year-round E15 delivers both, and Congress should pass it now,” said Vice Ranking Member Brown.

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Brown Joins Ag Committee Democrats on Farm and Family Relief Act

WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) joined fellow Democratic Members of the House Agriculture Committee in introducing the Farm and Family Relief Act. Brown, who serves as Vice Ranking Member on the Agriculture Committee is a co-lead on the bill, which was filed by House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Angie Craig.

Originally unveiled at a press conference last week, the Farm and Family Relief Act is the first and only bill introduced in the second session of the 119th Congress to provide meaningful relief to America’s family farmers and working people being crushed by the inflation and higher costs caused by President Trump’s tariffs and Republican cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in H.R. 1, the Big Ugly Law.

“Reckless tariffs, lost markets, and deep cuts to nutrition programs have created real harm for farmers and families alike. This relief package is a first step toward fixing what’s been broken, from putting a brake on the worst SNAP cuts to helping farmers get back on their feet. While the Trump agenda has raised prices, shrunk markets, and increased hunger, Democrats are offering a commonsense alternative that supports America’s farmers and America’s families,” said Vice Ranking Member Brown.

Read the Farm and Family Relief Act framework here.

Read the summary of the Farm and Family Relief Act here.

According to a new report by Joint Economic Committee Democrats, Trump’s inflation cost the average family $1,625 in the past year. Fruits and vegetable prices are up an average of 5.3 percent, while food eaten away from home has increased 4.1 percent. Hardworking Americans paid $310 more for groceries in 2025 than the year before.

The American Farm Bureau Federation estimated in November that U.S. farmers have accumulated over $50 billion in losses across the last three crop years. The 2025/26 crop year shows the steepest loss at $28 billion, influenced by Trump’s tariffs. Farm leaders have described the president’s $12 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) program as “not enough.”

The National Governors Association recently estimated that annual SNAP expenditures could increase an average of $218 million per state if payment error rate data collected during the shutdown period is not excluded from cost-shift calculations, and a coalition of state and local stakeholders has urged Congress to delay the cost shifts.

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Rep. Brown Votes No on ICE Funding Bill

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) today voted no on legislation to fund the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

“We are seeing with our own eyes what is happening in this country. Every day, ICE and CBP under the Trump Administration are committing new abuses with no accountability, no respect for the law, and no regard for civil rights. I’m a No on this funding bill, and I will not support another cent for agencies that continue to terrorize our communities, commit abuses, and escalate violence.”

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Rep. Simpson Stands up for the Unborn and Mothers

WASHINGTON— This week, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of two critical pieces of pro-life legislation. H.R.6359 - the Pregnant Students' Rights Act ensures all pregnant college students know their rights and protections to carry a pregnancy to term. H.R.6945 - the Supporting Pregnant and Parenting Women and Families Act guarantees pregnancy resource centers have access to the resources they need to help mothers and families.

“Defending the most vulnerable among us is one of my top priorities in Congress,” said Rep. Simpson. “I have proudly advocated for pro-life policies and solutions that empower mothers and support them with resources and information. I was pleased to support bills on the House floor this week that do just that and reaffirm the right to life.”

Rep. Simpson received an A+ on the Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America’s 2025 scorecard this week. Additionally, Rep. Simpson recently cosponsored H.R.431 – the Life at Conception Act, a bill declaring that the right to life guaranteed by the Constitution is vested in each human being at all stages of life. The full list of cosponsors and text of this legislation is available here.

The Pregnant Students' Rights Act passed with a vote of 217-211. The full text of the bill is available here.


Smucker Supports Appropriations Bills Which Rein In Growth of Spending

WASHINGTON—Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), Vice Chair of the House Budget Committee, voted in favor of H.R. 7147 and 7148, the remaining appropriations legislation for fiscal year 2026 and released the following statement:

“The House of Representatives passed appropriations legislation that takes an important step in changing our nation's fiscal trajectory by ending the unchecked growth of government spending. These bills responsibly fund essential government operations, reduce waste, and respect American taxpayers.

"By passing the remaining appropriations legislation for the fiscal year, House Republicans have made significant progress toward restoring regular order. While much work remains to address our nation’s nearly $39 trillion and growing debt, returning to regular order will further help Congress make more fiscally responsible decisions.

"Completing the appropriations process through an open and transparent committee process is an important step forward in an era when Congress averages enacting five continuing resolutions a year. I thank Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole as well as the House Republican Leadership for their efforts.”


Stanton Opposes ICE Funding Bill Without Increased Oversight; Demands Accountability

Stanton Also Introduces Legislation to Redirect $75 Billion in Existing ICE Funds to Local Law Enforcement

U.S. Congressman Greg Stanton (D-AZ) today condemned congressional Republican leaders for pushing billions into an out-of-control Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency without needed accountability measures, saying the FY26 Homeland Security spending bill lacks “real, enforceable oversight that holds agents who break the law responsible.” Stanton, who voted against the funding bill, also introduced legislation that redirects ICE funding Congressional Republicans passed over the summer to local communities to help hire more police officers and strengthen public safety.

“Here in Arizona, ICE has detained a member of the Navajo Nation even after he showed proof of U.S. citizenship and held a U.S. citizen for nearly ten days in Nogales. This pattern of reckless enforcement with no regard for basic civil rights must be stopped,” said Stanton. “Without real, enforceable oversight that holds agents who break the law responsible, ICE will only get worse. I cannot vote to fund a paramilitary-style mass deportation operation that keeps getting it wrong and hurting so many Arizonans.”

Stanton, who has been raising awareness over ICE’s increasingly reckless regard for the rule of law, recently helped introduced two bills to improve accountability, ensure safety, and prevent excessive overreach in federal immigration enforcement.

This week, Stanton also introduced the PUBLIC SAFETY Act, along with Reps. Chris Pappas, D-N.H., and Susie Lee, D-Nev., to redirect nearly $75 billion in funding from congressional Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) directly to local law communities investing in police officers who undergo thorough training and have real ties to the communities they serve. Specifically the bill:

Reallocate $29.85 billion in OBBBA funds for ICE’s enforcement and operations to the COPS Hiring Program for the hiring of over 200,000 local police officers nationwide;

Waive the COPS Hiring Program’s matching contribution requirements for small jurisdictions; and

Reallocate $45 billion in OBBBA funds designated for unnecessary and harmful additions to ICE’s detention capacity to the Byrne JAG program, which provides funding to support training, crime victim assistance, and crime prevention.

This bill would not rescind ICE’s regular appropriations, leaving the agency with historically normal funding levels to conduct traditional immigration enforcement operations.

“While departments around the country are struggling to recruit and retain officers, the Trump Administration funnelled $75 billion in taxpayer funds towards its poorly trained mass deportation force,” said Stanton. “They’re not making Americans safer – they’re causing chaos and fear. My legislation gives police officers what they need to keep us safe, while reining in the abuses of ICE.”


Stauber Secures $15 Million for Critical Infrastructure Projects in THUD Appropriations Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) announced securing $15 million in Community Project Funding for key transportation and infrastructure projects across Minnesota’s Eighth District in the recently passed FY2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations bill. Stauber advocated strongly for these projects to receive federal support.

“Safe and reliable roads, highways, and equipment are essential for our communities, workers, and economy in the Eighth District,” Congressman Stauber said. “I’m proud to have delivered $15 million for these much-needed projects that will improve safety, reduce congestion, and strengthen our infrastructure to keep our communities strong. I’ll keep fighting to invest in critical infrastructure projects that benefit the constituents of Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District.”

Congressman Stauber secured funding for the following projects:

● $5,000,000 for County Highway 32 Pedestrian and Safety Improvement Project

● $5,000,000 for US Highway 8 Reconstruction

● $5,000,000 for Gantry Crane Refurbishment Project

These investments will enhance pedestrian safety, reconstruct vital highway segments, and refurbish critical equipment to support transportation efficiency and economic growth in northern Minnesota.

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Stefanik Delivers $12 Million in Funding for North Country Housing, Economic Development Projects

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, successfully delivered $12 million in funding for housing and economic development projects across Upstate New York and the North Country in the federal appropriations bill.

"I am proud to deliver $12 million in federal funding for housing and critical economic development projects in our district. From the Lake Champlain-Lake George Regional Planning Board’s North Country Housing Initiative to Montgomery County’s Business Development Center construction at the old Beech-Nut factory to the Village of Cobleskill’s Grandview Drive Project, I have worked to deliver funding for these projects for years. This significant investment will serve as a catalyst for economic growth across Upstate New York for decades to come. Throughout my time in Congress, I have consistently fought to deliver real results and have secured nearly $1 billion in federal funds invested directly into our district,” said Stefanik.

Funding recipients include:

Lake Champlain–Lake George Regional Planning Board’s North Country Housing Initiative

$5,000,000 to increase the stock of workforce housing in Clinton, Essex, Hamilton, Warren, and Washington Counties through community outreach, completion of site-specific pre-development, and the construction and rehabilitation of new and existing units.

"The $5 million grant secured by Congresswoman Stefanik for the Lake Champlain–Lake George Regional Planning Board represents a transformative investment in the future of the Adirondacks and North Country," said Executive Director Beth Gilles. "The North Country Housing Initiative confronts the real barriers to workforce housing—outdated zoning, steep pre-development costs, and insufficient funding to build and renovate homes for middle-income, year-round residents. Addressing these challenges together is essential to keeping our communities vibrant and our workforce rooted here year-round."

Montgomery County’s Business Development Center Construction at the Former Beech-Nut Site

$4,000,000 to support the redevelopment of the historic former Beech-Nut site in Canajoharie, NY, into a mixed-use development that includes affordable workforce housing.

"This funding is a major milestone for the future of Canajoharie and Montgomery County," said County Executive Pete Vroman. "The redevelopment of the former Beech-Nut site at Exit 29 has been a long time coming, and this grant will help move that vision forward by supporting the critical site work needed to unlock the property’s full potential. Thanks to Congresswoman Stefanik’s leadership in securing this funding, we are one step closer to transforming this historic site into a destination that includes housing, commercial activity, and a walking trail that honors our past while building toward our future."

Village of Cobleskill’s Grandview Drive Project


Stefanik Delivers More Than $541 Million in Defense Wins for Upstate NY, Secures $329 Million for Air Force Research Lab in Rome, NY

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership and senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee, successfully delivered $541.8 million in defense wins—including $194 million for the New York Air National Guard’s “ski bird” planes and $329.8 million for the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL Rome) in Rome, NY. AFRL Rome’s work in surveillance, reconnaissance, intelligence, and quantum information science is key to American national security dominance in critical emerging technologies.

"I am proud to have secured more than $541 million in defense wins through this year’s appropriations process to further strengthen Upstate New York as a frontline defender of American innovation and security. From modernizing the 109th Airlift Wing’s LC-130J ‘ski bird’ fleet, to major investments in quantum computing, critical mineral sources, and next-generation battle technologies at AFRL Rome and Griffiss Institute, these funds reinforce our region’s role as a national leader in military readiness. These historic funding levels will spur further economic growth across NY21 and preserve our country’s national security for generations to come," said Stefanik.

"Congresswoman Stefanik’s success in securing millions for the Air Force Research Laboratory in Rome is a tremendous win for Oneida County, the Mohawk Valley, and our nation’s defense," said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. "AFRL Rome and the Griffiss Institute are cornerstones of innovation in emerging technologies like quantum science, intelligence, and advanced battle management, while also serving as major economic drivers for our region. I thank Congresswoman Stefanik for her steadfast advocacy and leadership in ensuring Upstate New York remains at the forefront of national security, research excellence, and high-tech job creation."

"AFRL Rome, the Griffiss Institute, and New York Air National Guard’s 109th Airlift Wing are critical assets that serve a valuable purpose in the region, state, and nation," said New York Senator Joseph Griffo. "I appreciate Congresswoman Stefanik’s advocacy and efforts to deliver this important funding."

"Continued federal support for advanced research at Rome Lab is strengthening technologies critical to our national security and reinforcing Rome's role in next-generation innovation," said Heather Hage, President and CEO of Griffiss Institute. "We appreciate the leadership, including Representative Elise Stefanik, in advancing investment in quantum networks that are developed, tested, and transitioned here in the Mohawk Valley for national impact."

Stefanik delivered the following key defense wins: