Following Larson Warnings, House Votes to End Trump Meddling with Social Security Death Records

Washington, D.C. - Today, House Social Security Subcommittee Ranking Member John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement after House passage of S. 269, bipartisan legislation that allows the Department of Treasury’s Do Not Pay system to use the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) death records in order to help stop erroneous payments to deceased individuals. After today’s passage, the bill goes to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

Importantly, the bill contains a provision to prevent the Social Security Administration from meddling with death records to target residents. Last year, the Trump Administration was caught using the Social Security Death Master File to pressure thousands of immigrants with legal status to leave the country, effectively marking them as dead and cutting off their access to the financial system. At the time, Ranking Member Larson decried this abuse of power and called on Congress to act. S. 269 adds explicit protections to the law to prohibit SSA from recording a death unless the individual is actually deceased.

“For months, I have sounded the alarm about threats to Americans’ private data,” said Larson. “It is not just external bad actors we have to fear. It is the Trump Administration itself. They are the ones responsible for wreaking havoc on people’s lives by cutting off their access to financial systems and housing applications. I am glad to see Congress come together and end these attacks on residents’ financial security to score anti-immigrant political points. We must keep speaking out against their abuses of power at Social Security. ‘DOGE’ still has access to the information of 300 million Americans, including names, addresses, and financial records that they moved to a vulnerable cloud! I have called for Republicans to act to protect your privacy and have been met with silence. When will they join us to protect their constituents from what could be the largest data breach in history?”

Ranking Member Larson has also introduced the Protecting Americans’ Social Security Data Act to prevent political appointees and special government employees like ‘DOGE’ from accessing private records at Social Security. He demanded a hearing on the bill in June when the Supreme Court allowed ‘DOGE’ access to sensitive data at Social Security. After a whistleblower report in August confirmed that ‘DOGE’ had copied the personal information of 300 million Americans on to a vulnerable cloud, Larson and Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard Neal called for immediate hearings on the report.


Larson Applauds Court Order Ending Baseless Revolution Wind Stop Work Order

This is the second time the Trump Administration lost in court after trying to end the near-complete offshore wind project, which is going to help power more than 350,000 homes in Southern New England and save ratepayers over $500 million per year.

“The Trump Administration’s baseless stop work order left hundreds of construction workers without a paycheck right before the holidays and put a project on ice that was set to save New England ratepayers millions,” said Larson. “This president has gone after wind projects, solar energy, and our state’s clean hydrogen sector — raising energy costs for families already struggling to make ends meet — all because he thinks climate change is a ‘hoax.’ Connecticut did not waste one second in the fight to protect Revolution Wind from his vindictive decrees because we’ve seen this playbook before. We beat President Trump in court once again to keep this project on target, thanks to the leadership of Governor Ned Lamont and Attorney General William Tong. Let’s get back to work.”

This is not the Trump Administration’s first attempt to block Revolution Wind from powering households in Connecticut. In August, they issued an illegal stop work order, which was also blocked in federal court. In September, the Connecticut and Rhode Island Congressional delegations joined together to defeat an amendment on the House floor that would have delayed the Revolution Wind project.


Lawler, Moskowitz Introduce Bill to Halt U.S. Funding for UN Agencies That Illegally Expel Israel

Washington, D.C. – 1/12/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Congressman Jared Moskowitz (FL-23) introduced the Stand with Israel Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation to ensure the United States does not fund the United Nations if Israel is illegally expelled, by prohibiting U.S. funding for any UN agency that enforces such an action.

“Israel is one of America’s strongest partners across the world. The UN has a responsibility to uphold its own rules, not bend them to appease extremists or reward antisemitism. The United States should not bankroll institutions that engage in discriminatory and unlawful actions against our allies,” said Congressman Lawler.

“International organizations should not be allowed to ignore its own rules to single out Israel, one of our closest allies. The Stand with Israel Act makes clear that American taxpayer dollars will not be used to support or legitimize unlawful actions that target Israel. International institutions must follow their own rules,” said Congressman Moskowitz.

This legislation was included in the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s State Department Reauthorization package.

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

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

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Congressman Sam Liccardo Calls for Attorney General Pam Bondi’s Resignation, and Responds to Investigation Into Federal Reserve Chair Powell

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia has opened a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. Former criminal prosecutor and member of the House Committee on Financial Services,Congressman Sam Liccardo (CA-16), released the following statement:

“This investigation represents a deeply troubling pattern of abuse of prosecutorial power for political intimidation. Republicans and Democrats on my own Financial Services Committee—-including GOP Chairman French Hill—agree that this Administration should focus on reducing the skyrocketing cost of living, not undermining the independence of the economic experts responsible for monetary policy.

“There is an effective, non-political process for rooting out waste and fraud: an independent Inspector General investigates, reports its findings, and seeks civil and criminal sanctions. Of course, this Administration came into office last year and immediately fired an unprecedented 17 inspectors general, to avoid revealing the corruption and chaos of this Administration.

“This Department of Justice hides inculpatory evidence from the Epstein files, prosecutes political opponents of the President’s, and fires respected career prosecutors willing to enforce the law against criminal activity by Trump and his allies. The Department of Justice has fallen a long way from when I served as a DOJ prosecutor, and from the days when two Republican Attorneys General resigned to protect the Department’s independence during Watergate. In order to maintain the independence of our justice system, Attorney General Pam Bondi must resign her office.”


Congresswoman Nancy Mace Issues Statement On Bill And Hillary Clinton Depositions This Week In House Oversight Committee

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Jan. 12, 2026) – Congresswoman Nancy Mace (SC-01), member of the House Oversight Committee, issued the following statement regarding Bill and Hillary Clinton's scheduled depositions in the Committee’s investigation into Jeffrey Epstein.

Bill and Hillary Clinton were subpoenaed by the House Oversight Committee to be deposed regarding their relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. Bill Clinton is scheduled to be deposed January 13th and Hillary Clinton on January 14th after already dodging their originally scheduled December depositions, yet as of today, neither has confirmed they will show up.

"Bill and Hillary can run, but they can't hide. No one is above the law. Not a disgraced former president, not a failed presidential candidate, no one.

“The American people deserve answers and accountability in the Epstein investigation, and the documented evidence doesn’t lie: the Clintons had a relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. Bill Clinton flew on the jet, Hillary Clinton took campaign checks, and we intend to get to the bottom of it.

“They are obligated by law to appear and we expect them to do so, if they try to dodge again then they must be held in contempt of Congress. This is their last warning. Show up and answer our questions, or face criminal prosecution."

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Congressman Mackenzie Highlights First-Year Results for the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos

Bethlehem Township, PA — Today, Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (PA-07), representing the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos, highlighted the work he and his district team have accomplished during his first year in office — emphasizing constituent services, local results, and responsiveness to the community.

Since taking office, Congressman Mackenzie has built a robust district operation focused on helping residents navigate federal agencies and delivering real results for communities across the region. During his first year, the Congressman’s office resolved more than 5,500 constituent cases and helped return over $10.3 million to families throughout the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos. In Washington, Congressman Mackenzie has introduced ten bills and cosponsored 127 pieces of legislation, advancing a bipartisan agenda focused on practical solutions.

The Congressman also highlighted efforts to strengthen local communities, including securing over $1.6 million in Community Project Funding, supporting the construction of a new firehouse in Alburtis and accessibility improvements in Portland. In addition, the office responded to more than 120,000 constituent calls, emails, and letters; participated in over 800 community events, meetings, and town halls; and opened four district offices to better serve residents.

“From day one, my priority has been to ensure that the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos have convenient access to high-quality constituent services,” said Congressman Mackenzie. “Whether it’s helping families get answers from a federal agency or securing funding for local priorities, my team and I are focused on delivering real results for the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos. If you or someone you know has questions or challenges relating to a federal agency, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office.”

Constituents who have received assistance from the Congressman’s office attended the event to share how casework support helped resolve issues involving federal agencies.


Magaziner, Jayapal, Ocasio-Cortez Statement in Response to House GOP Leadership Stock Trading Proposal

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), leaders in the effort to ban Members of Congress from trading stocks and original co-sponsors of the bipartisan Restore Trust in Congress Act, released the following statement in response to a stock-trading proposal released today and backed by House Republican leadership.

“Any bill that still allows Members of Congress to own and trade stocks falls far short of what the American people want and deserve. We are disappointed that the bill introduced by Republican leadership today fails to deliver the reform that is needed and instead protects the wealthiest Members of Congress by allowing them to continue to hold and sell stocks.

While this bill prohibits Members from buying new stocks, it does nothing to remove the conflict of interest that arises from owning or selling existing stocks. Members can still act on legislation, investigations, and briefings that directly influence the value of their stocks for personal benefit.

The American public deserves to know that Members of Congress are making decisions in the public interest, not in the interest of their own pocketbooks. The only way to restore Americans’ trust is to ban Members of Congress from owning and trading stocks.

We hope that Speaker Johnson will find the courage to move the Restore Trust in Congress Act, a bipartisan consensus bill that has wide support from members of both parties and will end the practice of Members of Congress owning and trading stocks once and for all.”


Magaziner Statement on Court Order Allowing Revolution Wind to Move Forward

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) released the following statement in response to a federal judge ordering that Ørsted may resume work on the Revolution Wind project off the coast of Rhode Island:

“Today’s federal court order requiring the Trump Administration to resume the Revolution Wind project is good news for Rhode Island. Trump has tried to stop this project twice, and he has failed twice. Enough already.

It is cold out and people are struggling with high energy bills. The Trump Administration must let Revolution Wind go live so Rhode Islanders can benefit from more clean, affordable energy.”


Malliotakis Announces 2026 President's Day Essay Contest

(STATEN ISLAND/BROOKLYN, NY) - Today, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis announced the launch of her annual President's Day Essay Contest. This annual contest invites students in grades 3-5 who reside in or attend school in New York's 11th Congressional District to share their ideas on how they would improve their community and country as President of the United States.

"I’m happy to kick off this year’s Presidents’ Day Essay Contest, an opportunity for local students to engage in civics and share their ideas," said Congresswoman Malliotakis. "In years past, students have focused on everything from public safety and litter to homelessness and animal welfare. We look forward to hearing from our youth about the issues that are important to them and their families and how they believe Washington can improve our community.”

Winners will receive a certificate of recognition, a gift card to a local bookstore & will be invited to a pizza party where they will have the opportunity to discuss their ideas with Congresswoman Malliotakis.

CONTEST DETAILS:


McClellan Announces 2026 Black History Month Essay Contest

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) announced the launch of the 2026 Black History Month Essay Contest for middle school and high school students across Virginia’s Fourth Congressional District.

The competition is open to all middle and high school students who live in or attend school in Virginia’s Fourth and aims to encourage reflection and awareness of Black history and its lasting impact on our country. Essayists should explore the contributions, struggles and achievements of Black Americans, as well as the lessons that can be learned from specific Black figures in understanding the complete narrative of the United States. This competition is meant to promote critical reflection about the experiences that connect us and shape our shared future.

“As the first Black woman to represent Virginia in Congress, I stand on the shoulders of trailblazers who came before me, like Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman to serve in Congress, and John Mercer Langston, the first Black man to represent Virginia in Congress,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “My service would not be possible without them, and every day I work to build on their legacy. I am excited to announce the third annual Black History Month Essay Contest, which centers Black voices and invites the next generation to carry this legacy forward. I encourage all middle and high school students in Virginia’s Fourth District to participate.”

Middle School Prompt: Barbara Rose Johns was a courageous student activist whose leadership and determination helped spark a legal challenge that contributed to the landmark 1954 Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education, which ended racial segregation in public schools in the United States.

Write an essay explaining who Barbara Rose Johns was and discuss the importance of student activism today. In your essay, explain how young people can use their voices, actions, and leadership to influence positive change in their schools and communities, and why youth involvement remains essential to advancing social justice. (350-500 words)

High School Prompt: Carter G. Woodson is known as the “Father of Black History” for his dedication to researching, preserving, and teaching African American history. He established Negro History Week, which later became Black History Month.

Write an essay explaining who Carter G. Woodson was and why he believed it was important for African Americans to learn their own history. Discuss the challenges he faced in promoting Black history and why Black History Month remains relevant as we commemorate the 250th anniversary of United States Independence and the contributions of African Americans. (500-750 words)

The deadline to submit an essay is Monday, February 9th and should be sent to VA04_Projects@mail.house.gov.


McIver Announces “Kora” App as Winner of NJ-10 Congressional App Challenge

Washington, D.C. – Shortly before the New Year, Congresswoman LaMonica McIver (NJ-10) announced Kora as the winning app of the NJ-10 Congressional App Challenge.

Kora is an application to assist caregivers by helping autistic children communicate. The app integrates emotion recognition, interactive games, conversational AI, and community assistance.

“After a competitive judging process, we’re excited to share that the winning app is Kora. The student team demonstrated not just proficiency in programming languages and coding platforms, but a shared value of using technology to improve the lives of their community,” said McIver. “There were so many talented students who submitted, and I am delighted to witness what is just the start of their journey in innovation and community investment.”

Kora was developed by a team of four high schoolers: Liam Casey and Joseph Pontoriero of Seton Hall Preparatory School, and Shashank Madala and Ayur Munipalli of Robbinsville High School.

“Kora equips parents and siblings with tools to understand emotional cues, foster empathy, and strengthen family bonds,” said the creators of the app in their submission. “What moved us the most was seeing the change that occurs when technology unlocks connection.”

The winners were chosen by a panel of expert judges, and will be featured on CongressionalAppChallenge.us. Kora will also be on display in the U.S. Capitol, honoring student app designers from across the country.

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MEDIA ADVISORY: House Foreign Affairs Ranking Member Meeks, HFAC Dems Hold Special Meeting on Venezuela

Washington, D.C. - Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, will lead Democrats on the committee in holding a special meeting on Venezuela.

Despite repeated requests from Ranking Member Meeks, Chairman Brian Mast has refused to hold public hearings on the administration’s actions in the Caribbean and Venezuela policy. Secretary of State Rubio and Deputy Secretary of State Landau have turned down an invitation to attend this special meeting and answer questions publicly about the administration’s objectives in Venezuela. The meeting will be an opportunity for HFAC Members to gather assessments from former diplomats to the region.

Members of the press wishing to cover the event in person should RSVP with Andrei Vasilescu and Josh Schroeder.

The hearing will also be available to livestream here.

WHO:

The Honorable Thomas Shannon, former Acting Secretary of State, Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, U.S. Ambassador to Brazil, and Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs

The Honorable Frank Mora, former U.S. Ambassador to the Organization of American States, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Western Hemisphere Affairs

Mr. Brian Finucane, Senior Adviser, U.S. Program at the International Crisis Group and former attorney adviser in the Office of the State Department Legal Adviser


Statement on the EPA excluding Human Life from Cost-Benefit Analysis for Rulemaking

Washington, D.C. -- Today, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) released the following statement in response to the EPA's decision to exclude human life from cost-benefit analysis for rulemaking:

"The EPA’s decision to stop accounting for the lives saved by clean air rules is a dangerous abandonment of its core mission: protecting human health. For decades, well-established science has shown that reducing air pollution prevents asthma attacks, hospitalizations, chronic disease, and premature deaths. Ignoring those benefits while counting only industry costs assigns a value of zero to human life and makes it easier for polluters to do more harm.

"The EPA exists to protect people and the environment, not to promote corporate profits. Any cost-benefit analysis that excludes human life is dishonest and contrary to decades of precedent. Clean air is not negotiable."


Miller-Meeks’ Bipartisan Alternatives to PAIN Act Surpasses 70 Cosponsors, Gaining Momentum in Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) today highlighted that her bipartisan bill, the Alternatives to Prevent Addiction in the Nation (PAIN) Act (H.R. 1227), has reached a major milestone, garnering the support of 74 cosponsors—37 Republicans and 37 Democrats—in a strong show of real momentum behind efforts to combat the opioid crisis through safer, non-addictive pain management.

“I’m proud to see such strong bipartisan support for a commonsense bill that prioritizes patients, promotes safer pain treatment, and helps address the opioid crisis head-on,” said Miller-Meeks. “The Alternatives to PAIN Act is about expanding access to non-opioid options for pain relief, removing unnecessary roadblocks, and delivering the kind of innovative care Americans deserve.”

The bill would eliminate cost-sharing for qualifying non-opioid pain management drugs under Medicare Part D, place them on the lowest-cost tier, and prohibit the use of prior authorization or step therapy—ensuring seniors and other Medicare beneficiaries can access safer treatments without red tape.

With overdose deaths continuing to devastate communities nationwide, the Alternatives to PAIN Act represents a bipartisan step forward in the fight to reduce opioid dependence.

“This bill is gaining real momentum because it puts patients over politics,” Miller-Meeks continued. “With more than 70 cosponsors and rising, now is the time for Congress to act. Let’s get this across the finish line and deliver real help to the millions of Americans suffering from pain.”

The legislation has also been introduced in the Senate as S.475.

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Moolenaar Supports Congressional Stock Trading Ban

Today, Congressman John Moolenaar cosponsored the Stop Insider Trading Act. This legislation was introduced today and would prohibit Members of Congress and their immediate families from purchasing stocks.

“Members of Congress are entrusted by the American people to represent them faithfully in Washington D.C. and should not use their position to enrich themselves off of insider information. It would be a betrayal of the public to do so otherwise,” said Moolenaar. “This is commonsense legislation and I urge its immediate passage.”

Specifically, the bill would prohibit Members of Congress, their spouses, and their dependent children from purchasing financial securities in publicly traded companies while in office. It would also require public disclosure of a stock sale at least seven days in advance of the sale, and impose fines on violators.

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Neal Applauds Extension of International Trade Agreements with Africa and Haiti

WASHINGTON, DC— Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 6500, the AGOA Extension Act, and H.R. 6504, the Haiti Economic Lift Program Extension Act:

“Tonight’s votes are a win for two vehicles that have been instrumental to unlocking critical partnerships in trade between America and our allies in Africa and Haiti. As the Administration walks away from international agreements, targets our trading partners with illegal IEEPA tariffs, and makes things personal with attacks on the African and Haitian people, Congress tonight took an overdue step in reaffirming our nation’s commitment to our allies and to sensible trade policy that builds jobs and sparks economies.

“Global challenges in labor and human rights must continue to motivate our work to reinforce our alliances and global competitiveness. While Republicans failed to strengthen these bills by expanding TAA and advancing policies that protect and empower workers, Democrats will continue fighting for a fairer trade strategy that invests in our partnerships and lives up to our values. We cannot allow our economic and diplomatic ties to further languish under the cruelty of an Administration hell-bent on extorting those with the least to give. Democrats know that’s not who we are, and that our global competitiveness requires us to invest in our partnerships and our workers, not abandon them.”

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Congressman Neguse Leads Members of Congress in Return to Court After Trump-Vance Administration Denies Access to Conduct Oversight of Immigration Detention Facilities

Washington, D.C. — Today, Colorado Congressman and Assistant Democratic Leader Joe Neguse, alongside twelve of his colleagues, have returned to federal court after the Trump-Vance administration secretly re-imposed a policy that blocks unannounced congressional oversight of federal immigration detention facilities. The Representatives filed a motion urgently asking the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to order the administration to explain how this new policy is not a violation of federal law guaranteeing Members of Congress the ability to conduct oversight of ICE facilities. The court’s December order affirmed all Members’ rights under federal law to conduct this oversight.

The lawsuit, Neguse et al. v. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement et al., was filed in July 2025 after the Trump-Vance administration unlawfully imposed a policy requiring Members of Congress to give advance notice before conducting oversight visits at immigration detention facilities, interfering with Congress’s constitutional oversight authority, and preventing lawmakers from examining conditions and government conduct as incidents of violence against detainees was on the rise.

Last month, the court preliminarily stopped DHS’s policy, affirming the rights of Members to conduct unannounced visits. However, after an ICE officer shot and killed a U.S. citizen last week, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem quietly signed a new memorandum reinstating the same seven-day notice requirement. The existence of the memo, which had not been shared with plaintiffs or the court, only came to light after three members of the Minnesota congressional delegation were subsequently denied access to an ICE facility in Minnesota, despite having the court order in hand.

The plaintiffs include Assistant Democratic Leader Joe Neguse; Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chair Rep. Adriano Espaillat; Homeland Security Committee Ranking Member Rep. Bennie G. Thompson; Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Rep. Jamie Raskin; House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Ranking Member Rep. Robert Garcia; House Homeland Security Committee Subcommittee on Border Security and Enforcement Ranking Member Rep. J. Luis Correa; Rep. Jason Crow; Rep. Veronica Escobar; Rep. Dan Goldman; Rep. Jimmy Gomez; Rep. Raul Ruiz; and Rep. Norma Torres.

In a joint statement, Assistant Leader Neguse and his fellow plaintiffs said: “In December, a federal court acted to restore Members of Congress's ability to conduct essential congressional oversight on behalf of the American people. Now, rather than complying with the law, the Department of Homeland Security is attempting to get around this order by re-imposing the same unlawful policy. This is unacceptable. Oversight is a core responsibility of Members of Congress, and a constitutional duty we do not take lightly. It is not something the executive branch can turn on or off at will. Today, we are going back to court to defend the rule of law, protect transparency, and ensure that no administration can hide behind closed doors.”

Read the filing HERE.

The Members of Congress are represented in this suit by Democracy Forward Foundation and American Oversight.

“What are they hiding? Why does the Trump-Vance administration continue to implement policies to block members of Congress – who represent the people and have legal obligations to conduct oversight – from accessing ICE facilities? The answer has become more and more clear: what ICE is doing is harmful and indefensible, and this administration does not want checks and balances,” said Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward. “A federal court issued an order in December preventing the Trump-Vance administration's attempts to prevent individual members of Congress from conducting oversight, and yet Secretary Noem and DHS appear to be seeking to circumvent the court’s order. This threat to the rule of law and our system of checks and balances should concern every single American. We look forward to seeking answers in court about what the government has done here.”

“The Trump administration has now made clear that it is willing to defy both Congress and the courts to conceal conditions inside immigration detention facilities, effectively enabling — if not openly endorsing — ongoing abuse and neglect,” said Chioma Chukwu, Executive Director of American Oversight. “A federal court affirmed that members of Congress have a clear legal right to conduct unannounced oversight visits, yet DHS appears to have quietly resurrected the very policy the court stopped. That kind of end-run around the law undermines transparency, accountability, and the constitutional system of checks and balances. We are proud to stand with members of Congress as they demand that the administration explain their latest secrecy and obstruction.”

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Rep. Troy E. Nehls Votes “YES” to Secure $3.25 Million for Projects in TX-22

WASHINGTON, D.C. —Last week, Congressman Troy E. Nehls (R-TX-22) voted “YES” to pass H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act of 2026, which includes $3.25 million in funding for projects in the 22nd Congressional District of Texas, including the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Oyster Research, Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star Greater Houston Agency (BBBS), Child Advocates of Fort Bend, and for the Fort Bend Women’s Center.

“I’m proud to announce that I voted to secure $3.25 million in federal funding for four of my Community Project Funding requests in Texas’s 22nd Congressional District,” said Congressman Nehls. “These federal funds will go directly to organizations that uplift our community’s families and youth and support a program that supports the new and growing Texas oyster aquaculture industry. The funds secured through these appropriations bills will help drive the growth of Texas’ oyster aquaculture industry, create and support mentoring relationships that empower our community’s youth, and uplift those in need for years to come.”

“This support marks a significant milestone for Texas’ growing oyster industry,” said G. Cliff Lamb, Ph.D., director of Texas A&M AgriLife Research. “It secures our space at the leading edge of innovation, and it boosts our capacity to serve Texans with essential research for economic strength into the future.”

“This investment secured by Congressman Nehls will give more kids in Texas’ 22nd District access to proven, outcomes-driven mentoring that will truly change the trajectory of their lives,” said Alistine Turnbull-Blackshear, President, Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star: Greater Houston. "Big Brothers Big Sisters has a long-standing record of measurable success, helping young people achieve academically, prepare for the workforce, and build lasting stability. By expanding a program that works, we’re not only strengthening families and communities, but also delivering a smart return on investment, reducing the need for costly interventions later and saving taxpayer dollars.”


Norton Introduces Bill to Protect Employees of D.C. Courts and Public Defender Service from Discrimination

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), the first woman to chair the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, today introduced a bill to apply the District of Columbia Human Rights Act of 1977 (DCHRA) to employees of the local D.C. courts and the D.C. Public Defender Service (PDS). In 2022, the D.C. Court of Appeals held that the DCHRA, which protects employees of the D.C. government and private employers from discrimination, does not apply to employees of the local D.C. courts. The court has not ruled on the applicability of the DCHRA to PDS employees.

“The local D.C. courts and the D.C. Public Defender Service are unique entities, and they sometimes fall through the regulatory cracks,” Norton said. “They are neither federal nor D.C. government entities, though both were created and are funded by Congress, and their employees are treated as federal employees for some employee benefits. I want to ensure that their employees have comprehensive protections from and remedies for employment discrimination.”

While employees of the local D.C. courts and PDS are protected by federal anti-discrimination laws, the DCHRA provides much broader protections and remedies for workers than federal employment anti-discrimination laws.

The D.C. Council may have the authority to pass such a bill itself, but only Congress has the clear authority to do so, given the express limitations in the D.C. Home Rule Act on the Council’s authority to legislate on matters affecting the local D.C. courts and given that Congress has generally served as the legislative body for PDS.

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Ocasio-Cortez Calls on Department of Energy to Publicly Restore Study That Strengthens Puerto Rico’s Energy Security

Washington, D.C. - Today, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14) led a letter urging Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright to reinstate the Department of Energy’s (DoE) Puerto Rico 100 (PR100) website.

The website was the primary hub for the DoE’s PR100 study, as the Department has invested over two years, and millions of dollars, into PR100 to develop strategies to fulfill its mandated goal of 100% renewable energy by 2050. This goal was established because Puerto Rico’s electrical system has historically been documented to have reliability challenges with worsening outage metrics, reaching levels significantly worse than the U.S. average.

“PR100 is part of an important initiative to help transition the archipelago from a grid facing high costs and significant operational difficulties to a more affordable and resilient clean energy system that can deliver energy security to the people of Puerto Rico,” the lawmaker wrote. “The website was crucial for the study to succeed by providing direct public access to the study, including summaries and raw data. The removal of the website diminishes the study’s ability to help guide federal and local efforts to support Puerto Rico’s renewable energy goals.”

The letter notes that the Department of Energy has also recently canceled billions of dollars in Puerto Rican renewable energy infrastructure project funding and loans, which is impacting planned transition efforts. The removal of the PR100 website complicates the DoE’s original mission to ensure America’s security and prosperity by addressing energy and environmental challenges through transformative science and technology solutions.

The letter concludes with a request that the website be reinstated no later than February 12, 2026.

In addition to Rep. Ocasio-Cortez, the letter was cosigned by Representatives Brendan Boyle (PA-02), André Carson (IN-07), Ed Case (HI-01), Sean Casten (IL-06), Judy Chu (CA-28), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Daniel Goldman (NY-10), Pablo Hernández (D-PR), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Grace Meng (NY-06), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Mark Takano (CA-39), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07).

The letter is endorsed by El Puente, CAMBIO PR, and Queremos Sol.

A full copy of the letter is available here.

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Ocasio-Cortez, Magaziner, Jayapal Statement in Response to House GOP Leadership Stock Trading Proposal

Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), and Seth Magaziner (RI-02), leaders in the effort to ban Members of Congress from trading stocks and original co-sponsors of the bipartisan Restore Trust in Congress Act, released the following statement in response to a stock-trading proposal released today and backed by House Republican leadership.

“Any bill that still allows Members of Congress to own and trade stocks falls far short of what the American people want and deserve. We are disappointed that the bill introduced by Republican leadership today fails to deliver the reform that is needed and instead protects the wealthiest Members of Congress by allowing them to continue to hold and sell stock.

While this bill prohibits Members from buying new stocks, it does nothing to remove the conflict of interest that arises from owning or selling existing stocks. Members can still act on legislation, investigations, and briefings that directly influence the value of their stocks for personal benefit.

The American public deserves to know that Members of Congress are making decisions in the public interest, not in the interest of their own pocketbooks. The only way to restore Americans’ trust is to ban Members of Congress from owning and trading stocks.

We hope that Speaker Johnson will find the courage to move the Restore Trust in Congress Act, a bipartisan consensus bill that has wide support from members of both parties and will end the practice of Members of Congress owning and trading stocks once and for all.”

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Office of Congressman Burgess Owens Announces Senior Staff Additions

WEST JORDAN, UT — Congressman Burgess Owens today announced key additions to his senior staff, strengthening the leadership team that supports his work on behalf of Utah’s Fourth Congressional District and the nation.

Devon Murphy Promoted to Deputy Chief of Staff

Congressman Owens announced the promotion of Devon Murphy to Deputy Chief of Staff, in addition to his continued service as Legislative Director. Murphy is a veteran of the Utah Army National Guard and a long-time congressional staffer who has played a central role in advancing Congressman Owens’ legislative priorities.

“There is no better staffer and friend than Devon Murphy,” said Lee Lonsberry, Chief of Staff.

“Devon has led my legislative team with precision and excellence,” said Congressman Owens. “This promotion was a no-brainer.”

“I’m honored by the confidence Congressman Owens has placed in me to lead his legislative agenda, deliver results for Utah’s Fourth District, and advance President Trump’s America First agenda,” said Devon Murphy.

In his expanded role, Murphy will take on additional responsibilities supporting the strategic, operational, and legislative work of the office, continuing his record of disciplined leadership and service.

Colby Walker Named Communications Director

Congressman Owens also announced that Colby Walker will serve as Communications Director. Walker joins the Owens office after serving as State Communications Specialist for Senator Mike Lee. Prior to his time in the U.S. Senate, Walker worked as a digital content producer for KSL. He is a Utah native with deep roots in the state and extensive experience in political and media communications.

“I’ve known and worked with Colby for many years, both in the office of Senator Lee and at KSL. He is a good man with sharp instincts and a strategic mind, and he will serve Congressman Owens in exactly the right way.”

“Colby’s track record and reputation are exceptional,” said Congressman Owens. “I have observed the work he has done, and his heart and ability are a perfect match for my office. The work he will do on behalf of my office and Utah’s Fourth Congressional District will be invaluable and a great service. I’m thrilled he is joining my team.”

“I am deeply humbled by this opportunity to work for Congressman Owens and to continue serving the people of Utah in this new role,” Walker said. “Congressman Owens’ focus on limited government, education, and personal responsibility resonates strongly with me, and I’m excited for the work we have ahead of us.”

As Communications Director, Walker will oversee all communications strategy, media relations, and messaging for the Owens office.

Members of the press should direct all media inquiries and interview requests to Colby Walker at colby.walker@mail.house.gov.

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NJ Legislature Passes Pallone-Backed Bill to Preserve Monmouth Medical Center Hospital Services in Long Branch

Trenton, N.J. — The New Jersey Legislature today approved a bill (A6313/S5034) backed by Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) establishing a pilot program to preserve critical hospital services at Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch. The legislation now heads to Governor Murphy’s desk for final approval.

“This legislation is necessary to fix regulations that would have forced Long Branch to lose inpatient services, even though the need for care never went away,” said Pallone. “I’m thankful to the grassroots voices who refused to accept that this hospital could be hollowed out, and to the legislators who understood what was at stake and acted. Once the governor signs this bill, the Long Branch area community can finally have the peace of mind that these essential services are secure today and far into the future.”

The measure allows RWJBarnabas Health to continue operating acute-care inpatient services at Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch while also moving forward with plans for a new hospital facility in Tinton Falls. Under the pilot program, after the new hospital opens, inpatient services in Long Branch would be maintained for at least 10 years, with the option for the Commissioner of Health to extend the program further.

The legislation ensures that Long Branch will retain a full-service emergency department, operating rooms for major surgery, and 48 surgical and observation beds, including up to 12 that can be converted for intensive care use. These inpatient services would operate alongside outpatient and specialty services that the state has already required to remain in Long Branch indefinitely.

Pallone advanced the legislation after state regulators determined that existing rules did not allow a single hospital license to cover inpatient services at two locations. The pilot program resolves that issue, allowing care to continue in Long Branch while avoiding disruptions that could increase travel times, strain nearby hospitals, or limit access to care for vulnerable populations.


Pallone Secures Over $2 Million for Water Infrastructure Upgrades in Asbury Park and Perth Amboy

Washington, DC — Congressman Frank Pallone Jr. (NJ-06) has secured more than $2 million in federal funding in the Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriations bill for two major water infrastructure projects in Asbury Park and Perth Amboy.

“Clean water infrastructure is essential,” Pallone said. “These investments help prevent environmental hazards, protect public health, and ensure that communities like Asbury Park and Perth Amboy can meet today’s challenges without pushing costs onto local taxpayers.”

The funding secured by Pallone includes $1 million for a new screenings system at the City of Asbury Park’s Wastewater Treatment Plant. The project will filter out debris that lead to system failures, helping the city avoid discharges into the Atlantic Ocean, particularly during the busy summer season when failures can disrupt tourism and pose environmental risks.

“On behalf of the City of Asbury Park, I want to thank Congressman Pallone for supporting this important project and recognizing the need to improve infrastructure at the city owned wastewater treatment facility. This project will directly improve efficiency of operations at our facility and help to protect our ocean and beaches,” said Mayor John Moor.

A separate $1 million allocation will support improvements at Perth Amboy’s Runyon Water Treatment Plant. The project will strengthen the plant’s ability to address PFAS and other emerging contaminants in local water sources and help the city comply with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency requirements for managing those contaminants.

“This funding supports the long-term improvements we are already making to Perth Amboy’s water system. Upgrading the Runyon Water Treatment Plant will strengthen our ability to meet federal standards and ensure our residents continue to have safe, reliable drinking water. It’s a responsible investment in public health and in the future of our city’s infrastructure, and we appreciate Congressman Pallone’s support in helping move this work forward,” said Mayor Helmin J. Caba.

Both projects were requested by Pallone as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process. Community Project Funding allows members of Congress to direct federal resources toward specific infrastructure and public health priorities in their districts.


Pappas’s Legislation to Increase Pension for Medal of Honor Recipients Signed into Law

Congressman Chris Pappas’s (NH-01) bipartisan Medal of Honor Act, legislation to increase the monthly pension for Medal of Honor recipients, was signed into law. This legislation would increase the monthly pension for recipients to $67,500 annually. The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration bestowed by the United States. There are 61 living Medal of Honor recipients.

“The Medal of Honor is our nation’s highest military decoration, symbolizing the valor the distinguished men and women of our military displayed in extraordinary moments. Our responsibility as Americans is to ensure that all our service members and veterans are honored both during and after their service, and one way we will do that is by ensuring all of our Medal of Honor recipients are financially secure after their military service is over,” said Congressman Pappas. “I worked across the aisle to get this legislation passed and signed into law, and I will always work to ensure we keep our promise to our service members and veterans.”

Background:

The first Medal of Honor was given in 1863 to Army Private Jacob Parrott. Since then, there have been 3,536 Medal of Honor recipients, with 61 currently living. In 1916, Congress created a special pension for recipients of $10 per month for life. In 1961, Congress raised the monthly payment from $10 to $100. The last congressional pension raise was in 2002 when the pension was raised to $1,000 per month. The current Medal of Honor pension was set at $1,406.73 per month, without cost-of-living adjustments. This bill provided the first congressional pension raise for Medal of Honor Recipients since 2002.


CONGRESSMAN PAT RYAN KICKS OFF FOURTH ANNUAL “VALENTINES FOR VETS”

Ryan invites community to drop off cards at his Poughkeepsie office to deliver to veterans in advance of Valentine’s Day

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Pat Ryan kicked off his fourth annual “Valentines for Vets” initiative, inviting Hudson Valley community members to send or drop off cards to his Poughkeepsie office to deliver to local veterans and veteran caregivers for Valentine’s Day.

“Veterans put their lives on the line to keep us safe and protect our democracy - it’s the ultimate expression of love for their fellow Americans and for our country,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “Each year, it’s been remarkable to see the community’s outpouring of gratitude to our local veterans. I’m looking forward to rallying together again this year to show them how much the Hudson Valley values their heroism and service.”

In the program’s inaugural year in 2023, Congressman Ryan collected over 9,000 valentines made by Hudson Valley students and community members and hand-delivered them to veterans at Castle Point VA and Vassar Brothers Medical Center. Valentines were also delivered by his office to Hudson River Housing and Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) across the Hudson Valley.

Participants are asked to drop off or mail valentines to Congressman Pat Ryan’s Poughkeepsie office at 29 N Hamilton Street, Suites 112 and 113, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601. Cards should be postmarked no later than Friday, February 6, 2026 to ensure timely delivery. For in-person drop-off at the office, please deliver cards by Tuesday, February 10, 2026. If delivering multiple valentines, please include a count of the number of cards on a sheet of paper enclosed with the cards. Please contact Congressman Ryan’s district office at 845-443-2930 with any questions or for more information.

Congressman Pat Ryan is a U.S. Army veteran, having served two combat tours in Iraq, and is the first West Point graduate to represent the Academy in the U.S. House of Representatives. He sits on the House Armed Services Committee and has prioritized sponsoring and cosponsoring extensive legislation to deliver relief for veterans, service members, and military families. Ryan has hosted events celebrating veterans and connecting them with resources, including organizing a “Veterans Week of Action” in November 2023, hosting dozens of community partners for his Veterans and Military Families Resource Fair, and utilizing his mobile office, the C.A.R.E.S. Van, for a series of events bringing direct assistance to veterans at Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) across the Hudson Valley throughout the summer of 2024. Ryan recently hosted veterans from across the Hudson Valley for a breakfast in their honor where he recognized three veterans from Ulster, Orange, and Dutchess counties for their outstanding service to the nation and the Hudson Valley community.

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For Immediate Release Contact: Alayah Phipps

January 12, 2026 202-813-2793

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT CONGRATULATES TSEHAI ALFRED ON APPOINTMENT AS EDITOR IN CHIEF OF THE COLUMBIA DAILY SPECTATOR

U.S. Virgin Islands— Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (D-VI) released the following statement congratulating Tsehai Alfred, a St. Croix native and former intern in her St. Croix district office, on her historic appointment as Editor in Chief and President of The Columbia Daily Spectator at Columbia University. Ms. Alfred is the first Black editor-in-chief of the publication, which is the second-oldest college daily newspaper in the United States and has been recognized as the best student newspaper in the country by the Society of Professional Journalists.

A graduate of Good Hope Country Day School, where she restarted the school newspaper, Ms. Alfred once interned in Congresswoman Plaskett's St. Croix district office. During the summer of her freshman year at Columbia University, where she is studying English, Tsehai interned with the Virgin Islands Consortium, producing critical reporting that directly benefited the St. Croix business community. Her coverage of an obscure solid waste ordinance led to the cancellation of unwarranted fines for Christiansted businesses and resulted in the Waste Management Authority establishing a territory-wide public education initiative to ensure business owners understood their compliance obligations.

"I am incredibly proud of Tsehai and all that she has accomplished," said Congresswoman Plaskett. "Tsehai has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to ethical journalism, community service, and giving voice to those who have been overlooked. The Virgin Islands is fortunate to have such a brilliant young woman representing our community on the national stage, and I have no doubt she will continue to make us proud."

"Working with Tsehai was an absolute privilege," said Tionee Scotland, Communications Director for Congresswoman Plaskett. "From day one, her intellectual curiosity, exceptional writing ability, and remarkable eye for graphic design set her apart. But what truly distinguished Tsehai was her genuine commitment to public service—she approached every assignment, whether drafting communications or researching policy issues, with the same level of excellence and attention to detail that you would expect from a seasoned professional. When her internship concluded, our office felt the loss deeply. That said, we couldn't be more proud of her historic appointment as Editor in Chief of The Columbia Daily Spectator. Tsehai has the rare combination of brilliance, integrity, and purpose that defines truly transformative journalists. We are excited to watch her continue making an impact that will undoubtedly extend far beyond the campus.

Throughout her career, Ms. Alfred has maintained a steadfast focus on serving her community through journalism that informs, engages, and drives meaningful change. As she assumes leadership of The Spectator, she brings the same values of integrity and community-centered reporting that defined her work in the Virgin Islands.

Congresswoman Plaskett commends Ms. Alfred's dedication to uplifting her home community through her work and congratulates her on this well-deserved achievement.


For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland

January 12, 2026 202-808-6129

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT CELEBRATES HOUSE PASSAGE OF HAITI ECONOMIC LIFT PROGRAM EXTENSION ACT

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 6504, the Haiti Economic Lift Program Extension Act, reauthorizing the HOPE/HELP trade preference program for three additional years through December 31, 2028:

"Today's passage of the Haiti Economic Lift Program Extension Act is a significant victory for Haiti and for strategic U.S. engagement in the Caribbean. The bipartisan support for reauthorizing HOPE/HELP demonstrates that when it comes to supporting our neighbors and advancing our shared interests, Democrats and Republicans can work together.

"I am proud to have championed this legislation to support our Caribbean neighbors and foster economic development in the region. I want to thank Ranking Member Neal, Chairman Smith, Dr. Murphy, and my longtime friend, Haiti's Ambassador to the United States, Lionel Delatour, for their leadership in keeping the light of Haiti HOPE alive in the House of Representatives. The work of countless civil society groups supporting Haiti’s stabilization and any American manufacturers pushed for the renewal of this legislation.

"HOPE/HELP is a trade preference program with strong bipartisan support, that secures jobs for our allies. Haitian apparel utilizes U.S. cotton and plays an essential role in shifting supply chains out of China and into the Western Hemisphere.

"I continue to emphasize the importance of U.S. trade engagement in the Caribbean region. This legislation advances stronger bilateral economic ties, provides greater certainty for investors, and delivers the economic security Haiti needs to rebuild and emerge more prosperous and resilient.

"The legislation will now be considered by the U.S. Senate, and if passed, will move to the President’s desk for signature. We know Haiti's workers and families are counting on us to ensure this vital program continues without interruption."

Background: Haiti faces overlapping humanitarian, political, and economic crises requiring immediate action. More than 60% of the people of Haiti are living below the poverty line, with over 25% in extreme poverty. The 37% youth unemployment rate, combined with declining female literacy and lower school enrollment rates, as well as the crime and gang violence, makes finding skilled work increasingly difficult.

The apparel sector is of incredible importance to Haiti's economy and is the foundation for the country's economic development. Given the cascading job losses and extreme security crisis that have displaced over 1.4 million Haitians and left half the country's population experiencing life-threatening hunger, Haiti cannot afford to wait any longer for reauthorization of this vital program.

The HOPE/HELP reauthorization extends the period during which imports of certain Haitian-manufactured textile and apparel, and other goods produced in Haiti are eligible for duty-free treatment, providing the long-term certainty that Haitian producers and workers need to build stronger, more resilient futures. The legislation also restores eligibility for certain textiles that became ineligible due to changes in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule.


Congresswoman Pou Op-Ed: Schools Cuts Will Be Devastating

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Nellie Pou (D-NJ–09) just published an op-ed in the USA Today Network on the Trump administration’s decision to cut nearly $8 million in federal education funding to public schools in Paterson and Passaic City. The text is below.

Trump’s assault on public education arrives in New Jersey

By Congresswoman Nellie Pou

Just a few weeks ago, the U.S. Department of Education abruptly eliminated nearly $8 million in federal funding from eight New Jersey public schools — six in Paterson and two in Passaic. These cuts came with little warning, and their impact will be devastating to schools in Passaic County.

When the decision was made, Paterson Public Schools were given just one week before Christmas to file an appeal — which the district quickly did. But just three days before the New Year, my office was notified that the district’s appeal was denied and the cuts would go into effect at the start of 2026.

These grants, administered under the Full Service Community Schools program, are vitally important to our schools. For years, they have helped provide basic services including health care, mental health counseling, nutritious food, after-school tutoring, academic support and other programs that keep kids safe and engaged. For example, at Public School 10, students who participated in FSCS after school and/or mentoring programming, compared with non-participating peers, were 9% less chronically absent, experienced fewer absent days and achieved 32% higher scores in math and 31% higher scores in literacy.

But none of that mattered to Education Secretary Linda McMahon, who until recently was a top executive at World Wrestling Entertainment, better known as the WWE.

Paterson and Passaic have been hit very hard

Few schools will be hit harder by the cuts than those in Paterson and Passaic. Despite the Paterson school district’s willingness to remedy any concerns the Trump administration had with its programming, the Education Department refused to engage and has now hung these students and educators out to dry. Phrased differently, McMahon has just slammed a steel chair on our schools and is claiming it as a victory for public education.

At a time when the Education Department has rolled back support to K-12 schools from coast to coast, New Jersey students will now be forced to return to their classrooms with fewer tools to help them succeed, incurring consequences that will be felt for years to come. The president promised to dismantle public education in America, and he is doing exactly that.

Unfortunately, New Jersey isn’t alone. Two separate court hearings were held in recent weeks to try to stop the loss of $60 million for Illinois after-school programs, including STEM and robotics classes, civic leadership and development programs, financial literacy education and more. These programs were likely destined for underserved and under-resourced communities. The Education Department was founded in large part to bridge these gaps and has now been warped into a blunt weapon to undo generations of growth and progress.

Education should be a sanctuary from political corruption, yet the Trump administration has turned our classrooms and every aspect of American life into a battlefield.

By slashing these programs and forcing layoffs in school districts across the country, the president and his enablers are not just cutting a budget, they are betraying a fundamental social contract with educators, parents and students alike.

Why won't Linda McMahon engage?

Make no mistake — these school districts were willing to work with the Trump administration to find a fair path forward to keep this funding. And during my conversations with the Education Department, I repeatedly emphasized this in the case of the Paterson school district. I asked McMahon to meet and work with me, making myself available day and night, to educate her about the harm our students will face with the loss of these funds. Yet despite my coming to the Trump administration in the spirit of bipartisanship and for the sake of our children, McMahon has denied our pleas and has refused to demonstrate the same willingness to come to the table.

Restoring this funding is a moral and educational necessity. But in an administration defined by the decaying of public institutions, we must accept the reality that help is probably not coming and this funding will likely not be restored, at least not without a fight.

In just a few weeks, we will mark the first year of the second Trump presidency. In just one year, we have seen the dismantling of countless federal programs and agencies — and the firing of tens of thousands of dedicated civil servants. The impacts are mounting, and for students across the country, the consequences are here.

This administration stood by while families faced hunger during a shutdown. They remained silent as health care premiums and prices skyrocketed. By forcing our students to return to classrooms with fewer tools and less support, they are choosing to let public education fail.

This is not a series of isolated budget cuts; it is a calculated decision to let our public infrastructure deteriorate in ways that will take years to reverse.

I remain vigilant. We cannot let our public institutions vanish into the ether of a permanent crisis. I will use every tool I have in Congress to protect our democracy and restore the tools our students need to thrive. Our children’s future is not a line item to be slashed; it is a promise we are duty-bound to keep.

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Salazar's Bill Passes to Extend Critical Trade Program Supporting Haiti’s Economic Recovery

Washington, D.C. — Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 6504, an amended version of Rep. Salazar's H.R. 1625, the HELP Extension Act, bipartisan legislation extending the HOPE/HELP trade preference programs with Haiti for three years. Representative Salazar will continue to push a long-term extension of the trade programs as originally proposed. The bill continues key U.S.–Haiti trade provisions under the Haitian Economic Lift Program (HELP), providing a critical source of formal employment through Haiti’s textile industry while strengthening America’s nearshoring supply chains and supporting long-term economic stability in the Caribbean.

Representative María Elvira Salazar, a longtime champion of the HOPE/HELP trade programs, helped build the framework now extended by the legislation passed today. As Chairwoman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, she has consistently emphasized that economic engagement is essential to promoting stability in Haiti and reducing the conditions that drive humanitarian crises and irregular migration.

"As Haiti faces an unprecedented humanitarian and security crisis, keeping legitimate businesses operating in the country is essential,” said Chairwoman María Elvira Salazar. “The HOPE/HELP trade programs support more than 10,000 Haitian jobs, reduce migration pressures, and provide a real pathway to stability and recovery. Strengthening Haiti’s economy is not only the right thing to do, it is in the strategic interest of the United States.”

During her first term in Congress, Rep. Salazar introduced the original HOPE/HELP extension legislation in the House, with companion legislation sponsored in the Senate by then-Sen. Marco Rubio. The current version of the bill was introduced this Congress by Rep. Greg Murphy, in conjunction with Rep. Salazar.

“The HOPE/HELP programs have delivered meaningful economic opportunities to thousands of people in Haiti who desperately need stability, hope, and a path forward in the face of unprecedented crises,” said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. “Having served as a medical missionary in this country, I know firsthand the desperation of the people. What happens there affects the broader stability of the Caribbean and our hemisphere. Ensuring stability, opportunity, and lawful economic activity in Haiti is squarely in the national interest of the United States and a strong deterrent to violent gangs, transnational criminal organizations, or hostile foreign actors. I am grateful for the leadership of Chairman Jason Smith on this issue and the broad bipartisan support of the House of Representatives.”

The legislation now moves to the Senate for consideration.

BACKGROUND:


Rep. Salinas Leads 25 Colleagues in a Bipartisan Letter to Lower Barriers for Students Pursuing Careers in Mental Health

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) led 25 of her colleagues in a bipartisan letter urging the Department of Education and the Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) Committee to explicitly include mental and behavioral health professionals in the definition of "professional degree,” which would allow students pursuing careers in these fields to qualify for higher limits on their federal student loans.

Excluding these necessary graduate degrees would limit access to loans and funding for students obtaining one of these degrees, which would only exacerbate the current mental health workforce shortage and long wait times for people seeking vital mental and behavioral health services.

Click here or see below for the full letter:

Dear Secretary McMahon:

As the Department of Education and the Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) Committee work to redefine the definition of a “professional degree,” we urge you to consider the explicit inclusion of mental health, behavioral health, and substance use disorder professionals within the definition of “professional degree” for the purposes of the new federal student loan limits. We believe it is essential that mental health, behavioral health, and substance use disorder professionals be recognized alongside other health professionals to ensure that communities across the nation have access to timely and quality mental and behavioral health care services from qualified providers.

The United States is in the midst of a mental health crisis, and we currently do not have enough providers to meet the needs of our communities. In fact, more than 163 million Americans currently live in a Mental Health Professional Shortage area. By 2037, the National Center for

Health Workforce Analysis (NCHWA) projects a shortage of over 400,000 mental, behavioral, and addiction treatment providers.

Excluding graduate degrees in social work, mental health counseling, addiction counseling, marriage and family therapy, nursing, school counseling, and other mental and behavioral health professions from the “professional degree” category could limit access to loans and funding for students pursuing these vital careers and further exacerbate workforce shortages and wait times for those seeking mental and behavioral health services.

Given the current and projected workforce shortages of mental health and behavioral health providers—and the potential implications for access to care if students cannot secure higher federal loan limits—we respectfully urge the Department and the RISE Committee to reconsider the classification of mental and behavioral health graduate programs, recognizing them as professional degree programs and essential health and human services pathways.

Thank you for your consideration.

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Democratic Leader Jeffries Names Rep. Sara Jacobs as Parliamentarian

Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries named Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) as parliamentarian of the Steering and Policy Committee, making her one of the youngest members of Democratic House leadership. In this role, Rep. Jacobs will lead in interpreting and applying Democratic Caucus rules and help create, shape, and push caucus goals and strategy.

Rep. Sara Jacobs said: “Donald Trump is leveraging the full weight of our country’s resources for his own enrichment and to target our own citizens and civilians around the world. That’s why it’s never been more important for our caucus to be bold, united, agile, responsive, and forward-looking. We need to use all of our tools and resources to stop, delay, and blunt his harmful policies and craft a proactive agenda that responds to the urgent needs of the American people and earns back their trust. I’m honored that Leader Jeffries named me as parliamentarian to do this important work, and to help guarantee that the decisions made at our leadership table reflect the depth of experience and talent of our Caucus and meet this unprecedented moment in our country’s history.”

Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said: “Congresswoman Sara Jacobs is an active legislator, trusted colleague and team player. Her leadership is respected on matters of importance both foreign and domestic. As the Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa and a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Rep. Jacobs has consistently put the safety, well-being and national security of the American people at the forefront of her work. Rep. Jacobs will be another strong voice on the leadership team as we enter this critical year for the caucus, the Congress and the country. I thank Sara for taking on this important leadership position.”


Rep. Sewell Applauds House Passage of AGOA Reauthorization

Washington D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), Ranking Member of the House Ways and Means Oversight Subcommittee, applauded House passage of legislation to extend the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) for an additional three years. Rep. Sewell, a long-time champion of the AGOA program, praised the vote as a major step toward expanding trade partnerships, creating jobs, and strengthening democratic governance across the African continent.

Watch on YouTube here.

“AGOA has been one of the most successful trade programs in our nation’s history, opening doors for African nations while creating new opportunities for American workers, farmers, and manufacturers,” said Rep. Sewell. “Extending AGOA ensures that we continue building on this progress, fostering economic growth, and strengthening the bonds between the United States and our African partners. I am proud to support this legislation and thrilled to see it advance with such strong bipartisan backing.”

AGOA provides duty-free access to the U.S. market for thousands of products from eligible sub-Saharan African countries. Over the past 25 years, it has helped spur economic growth, encourage investment, and foster stronger partnerships between the United States and Africa. The program has also supported job creation and expanded opportunities for American businesses seeking to engage in African markets.

The three-year extension will provide certainty for businesses and governments across Africa, while giving Congress time to consider longer-term reforms to strengthen and modernize the program.

A senior Member of the Ways and Means Committee, Rep. Sewell has long championed AGOA as a tool for advancing both economic development and democratic governance. In October, Sewell called on Congress to extend the program alongside Ranking Member Richard Neal and Trade Subcommittee Ranking Member Linda Sánchez. Last month, she celebrated as the bill advanced out of the Ways and Means Committee with broad bipartisan support.

The legislation now moves to the U.S. Senate, where Rep. Sewell urged its swift consideration and passage.

“Our global competitors are investing heavily in Africa,” continued Sewell. “The United States must continue to lead. Passing this extension is a critical step in reaffirming our commitment to shared prosperity and democratic partnership.”

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ICYMI: Smucker Applauds New Dietary Guidelines for Americans to Improve Health

WASHINGTON – On Thursday, Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), co-chair of the Congressional Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Caucus, joined Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert Kennedy to announce the release of the updated Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA), which focuses on a simple message: eat real food – a diet consisting of whole foods, including protein-rich foods, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.

Smucker previously urged HHS to incorporate critical evidence-based updates to the DGA, several of which are reflected in the new guidelines, in a letter sent to Secretary Kennedy on September 29, 2025 and co-signed by other members of the MAHA Caucus.

“Our country is facing a diet-related chronic disease crisis. The updated DGA put forth by Secretary Kennedy and this administration affirm the science we know: better nutrition leads to better health. A diet consisting of real, whole foods improves metabolic health, prevents disease, and promises Americans a healthier future,” said Rep. Smucker.

The letter reads:

“Research has consistently demonstrated that whole, minimally processed foods should be prioritized as the foundation of healthy dietary patterns.”

…

“We urge you to build on this progress by ensuring the 2025 DGA address the role of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in Americans’ diets and specifically recommend reducing the amount of highly processed foods in the diet.”

…

“Rather than promoting a one-size-fits-all approach, the DGA should encourage inclusion of flexible, evidence-based options that better serve diverse metabolic and dietary needs, such as a low-carbohydrate dietary option.


Congressman Eric Sorensen Announces Fire Prevention Grant for City of Kewanee

KEWANEE, IL – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) is proud to announce the City of Kewanee has received $166,666 through FEMA’s Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) grant program.

The funding will support fire prevention and safety initiatives, helping reduce fire-related risks and improve community awareness and preparedness.

“Fire prevention saves lives before emergencies happen,” said Congressman Sorensen. “This grant will help Kewanee invest in proactive safety efforts that protect our neighbors and first responders.”

"Through the use of these grant funds, the Kewanee Fire Department will be able to initiate a Community Risk Reduction Plan aimed at all businesses and public access buildings in the city of Kewanee. We will now be able to fortify the fire prevention aspects of public safety that would have otherwise been financially unattainable." Kewanee Fire Chief, Stephen Welgat said.

The Kewanee Fire Department was also the recipient of a FY24 FEMA AFG (Assistance to Firefighters Grant) award in the amount of $203,561.66. Those funds helped purchase 3 new automatic external defibrillators (AED's). Those AED's have already arrived and are currently in service.

FEMA completed awarding FY24 fire grants in September 2025, with recipients now posted publicly on the agency’s website. These programs provide critical support to fire departments and communities across the country.


Congressman Eric Sorensen Announces Fire Prevention Grant for City of Sterling

STERLING, IL – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) is proud to announce the City of Sterling has been awarded $138,788 through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Fiscal Year 2024 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program.

The funding will support operations and safety improvements, helping ensure local firefighters have the tools and resources needed to protect the Sterling community.

“These federal investments help make sure our firefighters can do their jobs safely and effectively,” said Congressman Sorensen. “This grant strengthens public safety in Sterling and supports the men and women who put themselves on the line every day.”

FEMA completed awarding FY24 fire grants in September 2025, with recipients now posted publicly on the agency’s website. These programs provide critical support to fire departments and communities across the country.


Congressman Eric Sorensen Announces Over $3 Million in Grant Funding for Peoria Fire Department

PEORIA, IL – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) is proud to announce the City of Peoria has been awarded $3,036,362 through FEMA’s Fiscal Year 2024 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program.

The funding will support the hiring of firefighters, helping Peoria maintain adequate staffing levels and ensuring faster, more effective emergency response for the community.

“Our firefighters are essential to the safety of Peoria families,” said Congressman Sorensen. “This grant will help the city recruit and retain the personnel needed to keep our community safe.”

“The City of Peoria IL Fire Department is excited to receive the notification from the FEMA SAFER grant program on our much-needed award and successful grant application. With the SAFER grant, the City of Peoria is able to hire eleven firefighters and sufficiently staff our three aerial trucks. Thank you to all of our federal legislators, especially Congressman Sorensen, for keeping the FEMA SAFER and AFG grant mechanisms properly funded. This grant award will have a tremendous impact not only for our Peoria community, but our responding firefighters on a daily basis.” said Peoria Fire Chief, Shawn Sollberger.

FEMA completed awarding FY24 fire grants in September 2025, with recipients now posted publicly on the agency’s website. These programs provide critical support to fire departments and communities across the country.


Stanton Statement on DOJ Investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Greg Stanton issued the following statement last night on the Department of Justice’s criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell:

"The independence of the Fed underpins the strength of the American economy.

For too long, business leaders have stayed silent in the face of Trump's authoritarianism out of fear of retribution. Today, a red line has been crossed: Trump is threatening the Fed Chair with criminal charges for refusing to bend to his will.

To business leaders and shareholders, now is the time to get very, very loud."


Stauber Introduces Resolution to Overturn Biden's Mining Ban in Northern Minnesota

WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, Congressman Pete Stauber introduced H.J. Res. 140, a Congressional Review Act (CRA) disapproval resolution that would reverse the Biden Administration’s illegal mining ban in Northern Minnesota. Following the resolution’s introduction, Congressman Stauber released the following statement:

“The Biden Administration’s decision to enact its illegal mining ban in Northern Minnesota was not only an attack on our way of life and cost countless good-paying, union jobs, it also put our nation’s mineral security at risk. By locking up the Duluth Complex—the world’s largest untapped copper-nickel deposit—President Biden cemented our nation’s reliance on foreign adversarial nations like China for critical minerals that will be necessary for the United States to compete and win in the 21st Century.

“I am proud to stand with the hardworking men and women of Northern Minnesota and protect our region’s way of life and our rich, 145-year mining history. I look forward to Congress’s swift consideration of H.J. Res. 140, so we can send this resolution to President Trump’s desk and prevent future administrations from enacting similar, dangerous mining bans in the future.”

Background: In January 2023, the Department of the Interior, at the direction of former President Joe Biden and former Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, issued Public Land Order (PLO) 7917, instituting a 20-year mineral withdrawal covering 225,504 acres in the Superior National Forest in Northern Minnesota. This mineral withdrawal banned mining and other responsible resource extraction in a strategically significant area of the Duluth Complex, which is the largest untapped copper-nickel deposit in the world. Under the Federal Lands Policy and Management Act (FLPMA), the Department of the Interior is required to notify Congress of public land orders impacting an excess of 5,000 acres. The Biden Administration failed to properly transmit PLO 7917 to Congress in January 2023.

Under the Congressional Review Act (CRA), Congress has the authority to review and disapprove of federal actions within 60 Senate session days of the action’s submission to Congress. If a CRA joint resolution of disapproval addressing a federal action is passed by both chambers and signed by the President, it is nullified and ceases to have effect (or is treated as never having taken effect). Additionally, under the CRA’s substantially similar provision, when a federal action is successfully disapproved of by Congress, the executive branch is prohibited

from taking a substantially similar action in the future. Now that the Trump Administration has properly transmitted PLO 7917 to Congress, it is now eligible for Congressional review under the CRA.

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Rep. Haley Stevens Condemns Anti-Semitic Attack on Beth Israel Congregation

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This weekend, a fire severely damaged the historic Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, Mississippi in an act of suspected arson.

In response to the attack on the Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, Mississippi, MI Congresswoman Haley Stevens issued the following statement.

“The attack on the Beth Israel Congregation is a painful reminder that antisemitism remains a real and dangerous threat in our country.

“This violence echoes the horrors of the 1967 bombing by the Ku Klux Klan — an act of evil that sought to silence the congregation’s calls for civil rights and equal justice. Neither bombs then nor fire today will break the resilience or spirit of this community.

“Antisemitism has no place in Mississippi or Michigan or anywhere in America. The Jewish community deserves to feel safe practicing their faith. When hatred targets one community, it threatens us all. I stand in solidarity with the members of Beth Israel Congregation and Jewish families across our country. We must be unequivocal in condemning this act. I am grateful for the swift response by authorities and will continue fighting to ensure that our communities are protected and those responsible are held fully accountable.

“Now more than ever, we must come together to reject hatred and reaffirm our shared commitment to dignity, safety, and respect for one another.”

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Rep. Subramanyam Statement After DOJ Launches Criminal Investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Powell

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) released the following statement after the Department of Justice announced a new criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell:

“This sham investigation of Jerome Powell is part of a larger pattern of this administration coercing and intimidating regulators for the president's benefit. In this case, he could wreck our economy and monetary policy for the foreseeable future. The Federal Reserve's independence is what has historically kept us out of terrible depressions. We don't want to see any more of the economic hardship this administration has brought on the American people.”


Rep. Subramanyam Statement on Arson Attack at Beth Israel Congregation

"My thoughts are with the Mississippi Jewish community after an outrageous arson attack on Beth Israel Congregation. This 160-year old historic synagogue was once bombed by the KKK for fighting for civil rights, and is the largest synagogue in Mississippi.

This latest attack is part of a concerning increase in antisemitism in the last few years. This hatred has no place in our country. Our community stands with the Jewish community in Mississippi and around the country against antisemitism.

I will to fight for everyone's right to worship without fear, and that places of worship are peaceful, safe and secure."


Congressman Shri Thanedar Statement on Trump Visiting Detroit

Washington, D.C. — Tomorrow, Donald Trump will speak at the Detroit Economic Club. The last time he spoke there, he insulted Detroit, saying that the “whole country will end up being like Detroit if she’s [Kamala Harris] your president.”

“Trump promised to bring jobs and economic success to Detroit, but over the last 8 months, we’ve lost 68,000 manufacturing jobs, and unemployment has hit a 4-year high”, said Congressman Thanedar. “We do not need any more of Trump’s lies; we need to make America affordable.

Trump’s economic policies, from his massive tariffs that jack up the cost of the goods we buy every day, to his willingness to let ACA tax credits expire, which will cause an average increase in the healthcare premiums of 114% for 22 million Americans, are solely causing the affordability crisis affecting many Americans. But instead of taking accountability for his failures to make your life better, he’s launching a bogus criminal investigation into the top economic advisor that he appointed. The people of my district deserve better than Trump’s lies.”

Congressman Shri Thanedar proudly represents Michigan's 13th Congressional District, which includes Detroit, Downriver, and the Grosse Pointes. As a champion for working families, Shri is committed to advancing economic opportunities, education, healthcare access, and entrepreneurship for underserved communities. Drawing from his journey from poverty to success, he works tirelessly to uplift Metro Detroit, ensuring every resident has the resources and support they need to thrive.

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Congresswoman Torres Announces 2025 CA-35 Congressional App Challenge Winners

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Norma Torres, announced the winners of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for California’s 35th District, siblings Alexander and Melissa Lee of Pomona. The annual competition, hosted by the U.S. House of Representatives, encourages middle and high school students to pursue careers in STEM.

The siblings won for their app, Internet of Things Chair, inspired by their volunteer work at a surgery center. The app uses Wi-Fi–enabled technology to automate clinical chair-stand tests used to assess fall risk in older adults. By generating detailed, objective data on leg strength, balance, and fall risk, the system reduces the burden on medical providers, improves patient care, and helps prevent serious injuries. Alexander and Melissa are the first repeat winners of the competition in CA-35, having also won in 2023.

“I am incredibly proud of Alexander and Melissa and the thoughtfulness behind this app,” said Congresswoman Torres. “They identified a serious public health challenge preventing falls among older adults, and built a solution that is innovative, practical, and rooted in compassion. Their work shows the power of STEM education and the incredible talent we have right here in the 35th District. These are exactly the kinds of young leaders and problem solvers our country needs.”


Members of Congress Return to Court After Trump-Vance Administration Denies Access to Conduct Oversight of Immigration Detention Facilities

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretly Re-Imposes Unlawful Policy and Denies Members of Congress Access Despite Federal Court Order in Neguse et al. v. ICE

Washington, D.C. — Twelve Members of Congress have returned to federal court after the Trump-Vance administration secretly re-imposed a policy that blocks unannounced congressional oversight of federal immigration detention facilities. The Members filed a motion urgently asking the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to order the administration to explain how this new policy is not a violation of federal law guaranteeing Members of Congress the ability to conduct oversight of ICE facilities. The court’s December order affirmed all Members’ rights under federal law to conduct this oversight.

The lawsuit, Neguse et al. v. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement et al., was filed in July 2025 after the Trump-Vance administration unlawfully imposed a policy requiring Members of Congress to give advance notice before conducting oversight visits at immigration detention facilities, interfering with Congress’s constitutional oversight authority, and preventing lawmakers from examining conditions and government conduct as incidents of violence against detainees was on the rise.

Last month, the court preliminarily stopped DHS’s policy, affirming the rights of Members to conduct unannounced visits. However, after an ICE officer shot and killed a U.S. citizen last week, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem quietly signed a new memorandum reinstating the same seven-day notice requirement. The existence of the memo, which had not been shared with plaintiffs or the court, only came to light after three members of the Minnesota congressional delegation were subsequently denied access to an ICE facility in Minnesota, despite having the court order in hand.

The plaintiffs include Rep. Norma Torres, Assistant Democratic Leader Joe Neguse; Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chair Rep. Adriano Espaillat; Homeland Security Committee Ranking Member Rep. Bennie G. Thompson; Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Rep. Jamie Raskin; House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Ranking Member Rep. Robert Garcia; House Homeland Security Committee Subcommittee on Border Security and Enforcement Ranking Member Rep. J. Luis Correa; Rep. Jason Crow; Rep. Veronica Escobar; Rep. Dan Goldman; Rep. Jimmy Gomez; and Rep. Raul Ruiz.

In a joint statement, the plaintiffs said: “In December, a federal court acted to restore Members of Congress's ability to conduct essential congressional oversight on behalf of the American people. Now, rather than complying with the law, the Department of Homeland Security is attempting to get around this order by re-imposing the same unlawful policy. This is unacceptable. Oversight is a core responsibility of Members of Congress, and a constitutional duty we do not take lightly. It is not something the executive branch can turn on or off at will. Today, we are going back to court to defend the rule of law, protect transparency, and ensure that no administration can hide behind closed doors.”

Read the filing HERE.

The Members of Congress are represented in this suit by Democracy Forward Foundation and American Oversight.

“What are they hiding? Why does the Trump-Vance administration continue to implement policies to block members of Congress – who represent the people and have legal obligations to conduct oversight – from accessing ICE facilities? The answer has become more and more clear: what ICE is doing is harmful and indefensible, and this administration does not want checks and balances,” said Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward. “A federal court issued an order in December preventing the Trump-Vance administration's attempts to prevent individual members of Congress from conducting oversight, and yet Secretary Noem and DHS appear to be seeking to circumvent the court’s order. This threat to the rule of law and our system of checks and balances should concern every single American. We look forward to seeking answers in court about what the government has done here.”

“The Trump administration has now made clear that it is willing to defy both Congress and the courts to conceal conditions inside immigration detention facilities, effectively enabling — if not openly endorsing — ongoing abuse and neglect,” said Chioma Chukwu, Executive Director of American Oversight. “A federal court affirmed that members of Congress have a clear legal right to conduct unannounced oversight visits, yet DHS appears to have quietly resurrected the very policy the court stopped. That kind of end-run around the law undermines transparency, accountability, and the constitutional system of checks and balances. We are proud to stand with members of Congress as they demand that the administration explain their latest secrecy and obstruction.”

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Dân Biểu Derek Trần kêu gọi trả tự do cho nhà báo Lê Hữu Minh Tuấn nhân kỷ niệm 5 năm bị cầm tù

Washington, DC – Dân Biểu Liên Bang Derek Trần (CA-45) ra thông cáo nhân dịp 5 năm kể từ khi ông Lê Hữu Minh Tuấn, một nhà báo và nhà hoạt động tại Việt Nam, bị Hà Nội bỏ tù vì lên tiếng phản đối các vi phạm nhân quyền của nhà nước cộng sản.

“Tuần này đánh dấu 5 năm kể từ khi nhà báo Lê Hữu Minh Tuấn bị cầm tù một cách oan sai chỉ vì ông có can đảm đứng lên chống lại những vi phạm nhân quyền tàn bạo tại Việt Nam. Trong suốt 5 năm qua, ông đã phải sống trong điều kiện giam giữ vô cùng tồi tệ, liên tục bị sách nhiễu và đe dọa từ nhà cầm quyền Việt Nam, và nhiều lần bị từ chối chăm sóc y tế cần thiết. Cách đối xử này là không thể chấp nhận, nhưng đáng buồn thay, đây không phải là trường hợp cá biệt. Hàng ngàn tù nhân lương tâm tại Việt Nam và trên toàn thế giới đang phải chịu đựng những hoàn cảnh tương tự,” Dân Biểu Derek Trần nói.

“Hoa Kỳ là ngọn hải đăng của tự do, dân chủ và cam kết không lay chuyển trong việc bảo vệ nhân quyền. Chúng ta có trách nhiệm phải dứt khoát bảo vệ quyền tự do ngôn luận và lên án các hành vi vi phạm nhân quyền trên toàn thế giới. Tôi kêu gọi chính quyền Trump và các đồng nghiệp của tôi tại Quốc Hội cùng tôi thúc đẩy việc trả tự do ngay lập tức cho ông Lê Hữu Minh Tuấn cũng như các tù nhân lương tâm ở khắp nơi.”

Theo Dân Biểu Derek Trần, chính phủ Việt Nam có hồ sơ nhân quyền đáng lên án, đặc biệt trong cách đối xử với những tiếng nói bất đồng chính kiến. Ông Lê Hữu Minh Tuấn bị bắt giam vào Tháng Giêng năm 2021, không qua thủ tục tố tụng công bằng, và bị tuyên án 11 năm tù theo những cáo buộc hoàn toàn thiếu cơ sở pháp lý rõ ràng.

Dân Biểu Derek Trần đã liên tục vận động cho việc trả tự do cho nhà báo Lê Hữu Minh Tuấn. Gần đây nhất, Dân Biểu Derek Trần đã gửi thư đến Đại Sứ Việt Nam tại Hoa Kỳ, yêu cầu giải trình và chịu trách nhiệm về việc giam giữ oan sai này. Ông Derek Trần hiện là người bảo trợ chính thức cho nhà báo Lê Hữu Minh Tuấn trong khuôn khổ chương trình Defending Freedoms Project của Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, một sáng kiến cho phép các dân biểu Quốc Hội Hoa Kỳ nêu bật tình trạng của các tù nhân lương tâm trên toàn thế giới và yêu cầu truy cứu trách nhiệm đối với những hành vi đối xử bất công.

Trong vai trò người bảo trợ, Dân Biểu Derek Trần cũng đã gửi thư đến Ngoại Trưởng Marco Rubio, yêu cầu Bộ Ngoại Giao Hoa Kỳ can thiệp khẩn cấp nhằm bảo đảm tự do cho nhà báo Lê Hữu Minh Tuấn.

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Congressman Derek Tran represents California’s 45th Congressional District. Serving his first term in Congress, Congressman Tran is a member of the House Armed Services Committee and House Small Business Committee, where he is Ranking Member of the Oversight, Investigations, and Regulations Subcommittee. Congressman Tran is the son of Vietnamese refugees, a Veteran, and fought for consumers as an attorney before entering Congress.


Representative Tran Urges Release of Vietnamese Journalist Le Huu Minh Tuan on Fifth Anniversary of Imprisonment

Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Derek Tran (CA-45) issued a statement recognizing five years since Le Huu Minh Tuan, a Vietnamese journalist and activist, was imprisoned by Vietnamese authorities for expressing opposition to human rights violations committed by the communist government.

“This week marks five years since Le Huu Minh Tuan was wrongfully imprisoned for having the courage to stand up against Vietnam’s brutal human rights abuses. For five years, he has been living under abysmal conditions, subjected to relentless harassment and intimidation by Vietnamese authorities, and repeatedly denied necessary medical care. This treatment is unacceptable, but unfortunately, it is not unique. Thousands of prisoners of conscience, in Vietnam and across the globe, face similar horrors,” said Representative Tran. “America is the beacon of freedom, democracy, and unwavering commitment to upholding human rights. It’s our responsibility to unequivocally defend the right to free expression and call out human rights abuses around the world. I urge the Trump Administration and my colleagues in Congress to join me in pushing for the immediate release of Le Huu Minh Tuan and prisoners of conscience everywhere.”

Vietnam’s government has an abhorrent human rights record, particularly its treatment of political dissent. Le Huu Minh Tuan was imprisoned in January of 2021 without due process and sentenced to 11 years under dubious charges.

Representative Tran has fiercely advocated for Le Huu Minh Tuan’s immediate release, including in a recent letter to the Vietnamese Ambassador to the United States, urging accountability for Mr. Tuan’s wrongful imprisonment. Tran serves as Mr. Tuan’s official sponsor through the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission’s Defending Freedoms Project, which formally allows Members of Congress to shine a light on prisoners of conscience across the world and urges accountability for unjust treatment. As his sponsor, Representative Tran wrote to Secretary of State Marco Rubio requesting immediate assistance in ensuring Le Huu Minh Tuan’s freedom.

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Congressman Derek Tran represents California’s 45th Congressional District. Serving his first term in Congress, Congressman Tran is a member of the House Armed Services Committee and House Small Business Committee, where he is Ranking Member of the Oversight, Investigations, and Regulations Subcommittee. Congressman Tran is the son of Vietnamese refugees, a Veteran, and fought for consumers as an attorney before entering Congress.