LEADER JEFFRIES ON MEET THE PRESS: “AS DEMOCRATS, WE’RE COMMITTED TO DRIVING DOWN THE HIGH COST OF LIVING THAT EXISTS IN THIS COUNTRY”

Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on NBC’s Meet the Press, where he reiterated that Democrats remain committed to lowering the high cost of living and protecting Americans’ healthcare in the midst of the Republican healthcare crisis.

KRISTEN WELKER: And joining me now is House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York. Leader Jeffries, welcome back to Meet the Press.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Good morning.

KRISTEN WELKER: Good morning. Thank you for being here. We obviously have to start with the capture and indictment of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. You have called him a “criminal and authoritarian dictator who has oppressed the people of Venezuela for years.” Is Venezuela better off without Nicolas Maduro in power?

LEADER JEFFRIES: He’s a bad guy, of course, and he’s going to stand trial in the American court of law. At this particular point in time, it remains to be seen whether the people of Venezuela are going to be better off. Donald Trump claims that he’s gonna run Venezuela. He’s done a terrible job running the United States of America. Life hasn’t gotten better for the American people over the last year. Life has gotten worse. He promised to lower the high cost of living. Costs haven’t gone down, they’ve gone up. The healthcare system is broken. Donald Trump refuses to do anything about it to address the Republican healthcare crisis, so the notion that he’s going to run Venezuela and make life better for the Venezuelan people, of course, is belied by the facts as to what he’s done as President here in the United States of America.

KRISTEN WELKER: Well, you just heard my conversation with Secretary Rubio. I asked him about the administration’s decision not to inform Congress ahead of this operation until President Maduro had been captured. Secretary Rubio saying this was not the kind of mission where they could have afforded to notify Congress. There were concerns about leaks. He made that point. President Trump made that point. Was the administration justified in this case in not briefing Congress?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, there’s been no evidence that the administration has presented to justify the actions that were taken in terms of there being an imminent threat to the health, the safety, the well-being, the national security of the American people. This was not simply a counter-narcotics operation. It was an act of war. It involved, of course, the Delta Force, and we’re thankful for the precision by which they executed the operation and thankful for the fact that no American lives were lost. But this was a military action involving Delta Force, involving the Army, apparently involving thousands of troops, involving at least 150 military aircraft, perhaps involving dozens of ships off the coast of Venezuela and South America. So, of course, it was a military action, and pursuant to the Constitution, only Congress has the power to declare war, to authorize acts that take place in this regard. And we’ve got to make sure when we return to Washington, D.C., that legislative action is taken to ensure that no further military steps occur absent explicit congressional approval.

KRISTEN WELKER: Alright, let’s talk about when you return to Washington, D.C. One of the big topics at the forefront of Congress will be, of course, the fight over these Obamacare subsidies. They expired just days ago. The House set to vote on a three-year extension of those subsidies, but as you know, Senate Majority Leader John Thune has said it’s a non-starter in the Senate. Why are you putting forward a bill that has absolutely no chance of passing the Senate?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, let’s take it one step at a time. We’ve got to make sure that a straightforward extension of the Affordable Care Act tax credits passes out of the House upon our return next week so we can protect the healthcare of tens of millions of Americans who are about to experience dramatically-increased health insurance premiums, co-pays and deductibles. In some instances, health insurance costs will increase by $1,000 or $2,000 per month. That’s completely and totally unacceptable. And Republicans have a responsibility to partner with us as Democrats to stop it to protect the healthcare of everyday Americans, working-class Americans and middle-class Americans. Now, when we successfully pass this bill out of the House of Representatives, we know that there’s a bipartisan majority in the Senate—every single Senate Democrat and at least four Senate Republicans—who support a straightforward extension of the Affordable Care Act tax credits. The votes exist to pass it in the Senate, absent procedural hurdles that John Thune is erecting because Republicans apparently have no interest in protecting the healthcare of everyday Americans. They’d rather protect the interests of Big Oil and their billionaire donors, which is why they enacted massive tax breaks as part of their One Big Ugly Bill.

KRISTEN WELKER: Let me ask you, because as you know, we are 26 days away from another potential government shutdown on the heels of the longest shutdown in U.S. History. Would you support another government shutdown over this battle over healthcare subsidies?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, what we’ve said from the very beginning. First of all, we need to resolve this issue within the next week or so, protect the healthcare of the American people, and then continue to fix our broken healthcare system and address the Republican healthcare crisis that’s devastating everyday Americans, including as a result of the fact that they enacted the largest cut to Medicaid in American history. Now, we’ve also said, as it relates to the appropriations process, that we will sit down anytime, anyplace, with anyone in order to find a bipartisan path forward to enact a spending agreement that actually makes life better for the American people. As Democrats, we’re committed to driving down the high cost of living that exists in this country. Donald Trump promised on day one of his presidency that Republicans would lower costs. Costs haven’t gone down, costs have gone up. Housing costs out of control. Grocery costs out of control. Utility bills out of control. Healthcare costs out of control. We’re committed to actually addressing the needs of the American people. That’s one of the problems with this action in Venezuela. How does it actually improve the quality of life of everyday Americans? How is it in America’s national security interest? Why doesn’t Donald Trump and the administration focus on dealing with the affordability crisis? That is not a hoax. It’s very real and something meaningful needs to be done about it. That’s the Democratic commitment.

KRISTEN WELKER: Leader Jeffries, let me ask you, because Tuesday marks the fifth anniversary of the January 6th attack on the Capitol. House Democrats are planning to hold a hearing criticizing President Trump’s decision to pardon all of the rioters. And I wonder, is there anything tangible that you anticipate coming from this hearing, or is this hearing for show?

LEADER JEFFRIES: It’s a substantive hearing. It’ll be about the concerns that have been raised by people all across this country after the fact that on his first day in office, Donald Trump pardoned hundreds of violent felons who brutally attacked the Capitol and beat police officers, more than 140 who were seriously injured. Psychological and physical damage that was done that is permanent in nature. And it was all part of Donald Trump’s effort to halt the peaceful transfer of power, which is one of the bedrocks of American democracy. We’re in our 250th year of representative government. Our democracy is not perfect, but it’s a glorious thing, and it fundamentally has to be protected and preserved. So at minimum, on this fifth anniversary of that horrific attack on the U.S. Capitol, we’re going to address issues of concern related to ensuring we continue to have free and fair elections. We’ve got to get rid of this compliant Republican Congress who function like a reckless rubber stamp for Donald Trump’s extreme agenda as opposed to actually trying to enact policies that make life better for the American people.That’s at the essence of our democracy. And so on Tuesday, it’ll be an important hearing. We’ll hear from Americans from across the ideological spectrum about the horrors of January 6th and why we’ve got to make sure that something like that never happens again.

KRISTEN WELKER: All right, very busy time in this new year on Capitol Hill. We’ll be tracking all of it. Leader Jeffries, thank you so much for joining us. We really appreciate it.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you, and Happy New Year.

KRISTEN WELKER: Happy New Year to you.

Full interview can be watched here.

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Rep. Kiley Joins CNN to Discuss the Situation in Venezuela

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the Department of Homeland Security funding lapse continues, Congressman Kevin Kiley (I-CA) released the following statement urging Congress to act immediately: “Congress should return to DC to take up the Homeland funding bill that has already passed the Senate twice, and which I previously said I’d vote for. Since this measure has […]

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Kiley (I-CA) released the following statement regarding President Trump’s Executive Order on mail-in ballots: “There are a number of common-sense reforms to improve our elections in California that would make the process smoother and promote trust. However, an executive order purporting to set nationwide elections policy is not the answer, especially one […]


Raskin Statement on Trump’s Unconstitutional Military Strike on Venezuela

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Jamie Raskin (MD-08) released the following statement after President Trump violated the Constitution by conducting a military strike against Venezuela and kidnapping its president:

“Under our Constitution, only Congress has the power to declare war because the Framers believed that matters of war and peace for our country, life and death for our military personnel, belong with all the elected representatives of the people, not with any one man. The Constitution does not allow the president of the United States to unilaterally launch a war to take over another country, no matter how vicious its leader or authoritarian its regime.

“Trump is not only violating our Constitution, but he is shredding the rules-based international order created after World War II, whose essential building block is the political sovereignty and territorial integrity of each nation.

“Nicolás Maduro is a brutal tyrant who has caused great suffering to the Venezuelan people. That is not in dispute. There are equally brutal dictators, of course, all over the world, including in Russia, China, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and many other countries. If Trump can invade Venezuela’s sovereign boundaries, take over the country and kidnap Maduro on the grounds that he is a vicious dictator, any other country with the will and the way can do the same thing elsewhere. Indeed, Vladimir Putin must be celebrating this act of naked imperialism because it gives validation to its own filthy imperialist war on Ukraine. China harbors similar designs perhaps on Taiwan. America should be leading the world in upholding the rules-based international order, not leading the world in trashing it.

“No one is confused by the timing of this rampage against the American Constitution and international law. Trump’s presidency is sinking like a stone, our economy is collapsing under the weight of Trump's unconstitutional tariffs, the Administration's efforts to suppress the Epstein Files are failing and millions of Americans just lost their health care insurance coverage. Amazingly, the president wants the people to think his unconstitutional war reflects his concern about illegal drug trafficking just one month after he pardoned the drug-dealing ex-president of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernández, commuting his 45-year sentence after one year. Hernández brought in 400 tons of cocaine to America or 800,000 pounds, saying he was going to ‘stick it up the nostrils of the gringos.’

“President Trump has spent the better part of the last year trampling on our Constitution and violating Congress’ war powers, without regard to Due Process or the wreckage and destruction he’s leaving in his wake. Speaker Johnson should join us in asserting Congress’ constitutional authority over war powers and reining in a president who confuses himself with a king."

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Murphy On CNN's SOTU: Trump’s Foreign Policy Is About Making His Friends Filthy Rich, Not American National Security

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Sunday appeared on CNN’s State of the Union with Dana Bash to respond to the Trump administration’s military action in Venezuela to extract and arrest Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Murphy denounced the Trump administration’s illegal, large-scale military operation that risks dragging the United States into a costly, protracted war while families struggle to access basic needs at home. Murphy emphasized Americans do not support another foreign intervention and President Trump’s real goal in Venezuela is to make his friends in the oil industry richer.

Murphy slammed Trump for launching an act of war against Venezuela which the American people do not want and Congress did not authorize: “Clearly, this is wildly illegal…The president cannot run a military operation of this size, cannot invade a foreign country without coming to Congress first, without allowing the American public to weigh in. America doesn't want this war. Nobody asked for this because it has nothing to do with American national security. And I think that's the most important conversation to have.”

Arguing Trump’s real motivation for the strike is enriching his allies on Wall Street, and the oil industry, Murphy continued: “This seems to be mostly about oil and natural resources. Donald Trump's entire foreign policy is corrupt. Russia, the Middle East, and now Venezuela is all about making money for his friends. And Wall Street, the oil industry - they can make a lot of money off of Venezuela if they run it. You saw within hours of the invasion the announcement of a group of Wall Street investors, energy industry investors, planning a trip to Venezuela to make money off of this invasion, off of this ouster. So, unfortunately, once again, you're seeing that this president's foreign policy, the invasion of Venezuela, the ouster of Maduro, is about making his crowd filthy rich. It has nothing to do with American national security.”

Murphy called out the Trump administration for lying to Congress and the American people about their plans in Venezuela: “They came to Congress and they literally lied to our face. They said, ‘this is just a counter-narcotics operation. This is about trying to interrupt the drug flow to the United States.’ Right around that same time, the White House Chief of Staff said publicly, ‘if we ever had boots on the ground in Venezuela, of course we would have to come to Congress.’ Listen, there's no way to trust this administration. They aren't being straight with the American people. There isn't even a briefing scheduled for Congress next week to explain, A. ‘What happened,’ and B. ‘What the plan is moving forward.’”

Murphy warned the operation to remove Maduro would have similar results to our disastrous regime change efforts in Iraq: “We have seen how this script plays out… We have seen these warmongering neocons, many of which have influence in this White House, cheerlead us into war under the guise of removing a very bad man. That ends up getting a lot of Americans killed… I don't think there's a single American family who would support having their son or daughter put into harm's way to defend the interests of Wall Street.”

A full transcript of Murphy’s interview is available below.

DANA BASH: Democrat Chris Murphy of Connecticut. Thank you so much for being here. Your reaction to this operation?

MURPHY: Well, I mean, clearly, this is wildly illegal. This is a president who has been operating illegally since he was sworn into office, stealing from the American people, seizing spending power. Now, dragging America into a war overseas. The president cannot run a military operation of this size, cannot invade a foreign country without coming to Congress first, without allowing the American public to weigh in. America doesn't want this war. Nobody asked for this because it has nothing to do with American national security. And I think that's the most important conversation to have.

Listen, Venezuela is not a security threat to the United States. They're not threatening to invade us. There is no terrorist group like Al Qaeda operating there that has plans to attack the United States. To the extent that you care about the drug trade: Yes, they produce drugs, but those drugs go to Europe. Fentanyl is the drug that's killing Americans. That's not coming from Venezuela. Venezuela produces cocaine. 90% of it is not coming to the United States. This seems to be mostly about oil and natural resources.

Donald Trump's entire foreign policy is corrupt. Russia, the Middle East and now Venezuela is all about making money for his friends. And Wall Street, the oil industry - they can make a lot of money off of Venezuela if they run it. You saw within hours of the invasion the announcement of a group of Wall Street investors, energy industry investors planning a trip to Venezuela to make money off of this invasion, off of this ouster. So, unfortunately, once again, you're seeing that this president's foreign policy, the invasion of Venezuela, the ouster of Maduro, is about making his crowd filthy rich. It has nothing to do with American national security.

DANA BASH: Can I just go back to the legality and the point that you made about needing to come to Congress first? You know that for decades, Congress has let Democratic and Republican presidents sort of go for it on military actions. I mean, look at President Obama in Libya. And so it's not new that Congress has become, frankly, impotent on issues and matters of war.

MURPHY: That's absolutely true. And Congress needs to own its own role in allowing a presidency to become this lawless. The fact of the matter is that the president's justification makes no sense here. He says that this was just a law enforcement operation. Well, there are people with warrants all over the world. That doesn't give the president of the United States the power to launch a $1 billion invasion of those countries, to bring a fugitive to justice. Yes, Congress should have stepped in and either authorized or prohibited president Obama's actions in Libya. Yes, the United States Congress has sat on the sidelines to allow presidents to become more and more powerful in foreign policy. But that doesn't mean that it suddenly gives an imprimatur of legality to this massive invasion of a foreign country that the American public didn't ask for.

DANA BASH: You know, there's no question that Maduro was a destabilizing force, not just in Venezuela, in the region. And there are people celebrating in the streets all over South America. And Venezuelan expats abroad. So is it fair to say that there is some benefit in Maduro not being in power?

MURPHY: But what changes? I mean, you just heard Senator Cotton effectively not be able to explain who's running the country now. Delcy Rodriguez is a very powerful figure in her own right, handpicked by Maduro. Russia and China still provide enormous support to that country. What changes? Why would Venezuela stop its export of drugs, its harassment of U.S. Interests in the region? There's really no explanation for how American interests are changed at all with a Rodriguez administration that right now seems to be intent on carrying through and carrying forward the policies of Nicolás Maduro.

DANA BASH: In 2019, you wrote an op-ed and you called for Maduro to be gone. You said, ‘Let's get one thing straight, there should no longer be any debate about Maduro's lack of democratic legitimacy. The Trump administration is right to put restoring Venezuelan democracy at the center of our approach to this crisis. A return to a stable democracy is in the interest of the Venezuelan people and the United States and the hemisphere.’ We don't know what's going to happen with regard to the civilian leadership there. Tom Cotton was just here saying that he hopes that there are democratic elections. Isn't that what you want?

MURPHY: Well, the rest of that article was a criticism of President Trump's early moves to saber rattle around regime change. Listen, there are evil, brutal dictators all over the world. That does not give the American president the right to invade those countries, in large part because we have seen how this script plays out. I watched the interview with Senator Cotton. You asked him what the difference was between Iraq and Venezuela. He didn't say, ‘The difference was, we aren't going to invade Venezuela like we invaded Iraq.’ He said that if we invade Venezuela, which may be part of the president's plan, it's going to go really well. Over and over again, we have seen these warmongering neocons, many of which have influence in this White House, cheerlead us into war under the guise of removing a very bad man. That ends up getting a lot of Americans killed. And if this is really just about the oil, if this is really just about the natural resources, if this is just about getting a bunch of Donald Trump's friends on Wall Street even richer, I don't think there's a single American family who would support having their son or daughter put into harm's way to defend the interests of Wall Street. This is once again, American oil interests, American financial interests coming before the actual national security interests of the United States.

DANA BASH: I do want to ask about a briefing that the Secretary of State and Defense held with senators, you were there, last month about Venezuela. Can you talk about what they said and whether or not that actually bore out?

MURPHY: Well, I can certainly tell you the message that they sent was that this wasn't about regime change. I mean, they came to Congress and they literally lied to our face. They said, ‘this is just a counter-narcotics operation. This is about trying to interrupt the drug flow to the United States.’ Right around that same time, the White House Chief of Staff said publicly, ‘if we ever had boots on the ground in Venezuela, of course we would have to come to Congress.’ Listen, there's no way to trust this administration. They aren't being straight with the American people. There isn't even a briefing scheduled for Congress next week to explain, A. what happened, and B. what the plan is moving forward. But yes, I mean, I think everybody in that briefing heard the administration say this is just a targeted counter-narcotics operation. This has nothing to do with regime change. They knew they weren't telling the truth in that room.


ICYMI: Rep. Ami Bera Responds to U.S. Military Operation in Venezuela on FOX News Sunday

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In case you missed it, U.S. Representative Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06), a senior Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, joined Fox News Sunday to discuss the U.S. military operation in Venezuela, the Trump administration’s failure to notify Congress, and the importance of planning for what comes next to promote stability in Venezuela and empower the Venezuelan people to freely choose their own future.

You can watch the full interview here and read the transcript below:

GILLIAN TURNER, FOX NEWS: Let's bring in California Democrat, Ami Bera. He serves on the House Intelligence and Foreign Affairs Committee.

Sir, we have — we being Fox News, has learned from CIA sources overnight that this operation to take Maduro out was coordinated directly by cabinet officials, the top cabinet officials, in the Administration daily for many, many weeks, if not months leading up to this.

Did you and your colleagues on the intel committee have any inkling of what was in the works?

REP. AMI BERA: We did not. We've had the intelligence community in committee to talk specifically about Venezuela. We're not given any heads-up or -- or -- or an indication of what they were doing.

In fact, all of Congress, the House of Representatives, Democrats and Republicans, had a classified briefing right before the holiday break.

Secretary Rubio, Secretary Hegseth, General Caine were asked directly if this was about regime change, if we would be seeing troops on the ground. We were misled, and they indicated that we would not see that. [They said] this was about drug operations.

TURNER: President Trump and Secretary Rubio were asked by reporters yesterday whether they notified the Gang of Eight, whether they notified any leadership in Congress. Here was their response.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

MARCO RUBIO, U.S. SECRETARY OF STATE: It's just not the kind of mission that you can pre-notify because it endangers the mission.

TRUMP: Plus, if I can add one thing to that, Congress has a tendency to leak.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

TURNER: What's your reaction to that, sir?

BERA: My reaction to that is the Gang of Eight does not leak. The Gang of Eight should be read into this. That's the leadership in the House, the -- the Senate, and the intelligence community. They should have been informed.

Again, they know their jobs, and we're better off if Congress is in lockstep with the Administration.

TURNER: What is your feeling about the overall operation? The Trump administration is obviously touting it as a huge strategic and tactical success and a victory for the Venezuelan and American people.

Do you think the military operation was successful?

BERA: I mean, the military operation was extremely successful. It shows the capabilities of the United States of our intelligence com -- community. We have the best in the world. So, hands off to what we can do with our military and our intelligence.

So, there's no criticism of tactically how they did it. It's the motives, the intent, and the what-comes-next that we're very worried about.

TURNER: What would you like to see come next?

BERA: Yes, I think the Administration needs to come up to the Hill. Yes, we will meet as an intelligence committee. Yes, we met as Democrats on the foreign affairs committee yesterday to -- to have conversations about what's next.

At this point, you can't undo the past, so it really is about what comes next and how do you stabilize Venezuela.

It does look like the interim president is in conversation with the Administration. I'd like to see the Administration brief us on that.

And again, you've got to prepare the American public. Nobody wants to see troops on the ground. Nobody wants to see a long-term foreign engagement, especially when so many American families are struggling. And that's what this is about right now.

TURNER: And there are hundreds of thousands of Venezuelans in the United States under TPS, the Temporary Protected Status, who are hugely concerned about what this transitional period in Venezuela is going to mean for them and their families as they face the prospect of deportation.

I had Kristi Noem, DHS secretary, on with me earlier, and she said she has no plans to really suspend those deportations while this is unfolding over the coming months.

BERA: Yes. So, this is just my opinion, but, you know, we've seen the actions of the Trump administration. So, if I was one of those Venezuelan refugees, I would be worried as well. I do think part of the intent of the Administration is now that they have a different Administration in Venezuela that they are going to start sending those folks back to Venezuela. The president has not said that, but based on his previous actions, I do think that's part of the motivation here.

TURNER: Do you have any sense of who you would like to see at the helm of Venezuela's government in a future Administration?

BERA: You know, I don't at this moment. I do know, we should learn lessons from the past. The mistake that was made in Iraq was, as soon as we toppled Saddam Hussein, we dismantled all the infrastructure, all the government agencies, the military, et cetera. That was a mistake and threw that country into chaos, which led to an over decade engagement with troops on the ground in Iraq, many Americans dying there and trillions of dollars being spent.

I would try to keep the Administration intact. I would try to find out which generals are willing to work with the United States, work with the rest of the world to create some peace and stability. And then think about what comes next. Again, Venezuela has had democratic elections.

TURNER: Yes.

BERA: It is up to the people of Venezuela to choose their leadership. But let's keep some stability.

TURNER: Congressman Ami Bera, thank you for taking time with us today. We appreciate it.

BERA: Gillian, thanks for having me on.


Bilirakis Issues Statement in Support of Operation Absolute Resolve

Earlier today, Congressman Gus Bilirakis issued the following statement in support of Operation Absolute Resolve.

“President Donald J. Trump’s decisive actions under Operation Absolute Resolve demonstrate a renewed commitment to holding narco-terrorists like Nicolás Maduro accountable. The operation underscores the urgent need to confront drug cartels responsible for the overdose crisis that has taken the lives of countless Americans, as well as for exporting violent criminal gangs such as Tren de Aragua to terrorize our communities. Upholding the rule of law through the American justice system is essential to dismantling Venezuelan narcotics networks and ensuring that those who profit from this destruction are ultimately punished. Accountability is not only a legal obligation, but a moral imperative to protect American lives. I applaud the Administration and brave men and women serving in our military who flawlessly carried out this historic mission,” said Congressman Gus Bilirakis.


Buchanan Commends Trump Administration Deal Excluding U.S. Companies From Global Minimum Tax

Deal Protects U.S. Companies From Unfair Foreign Taxes, Defends American Competitiveness

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Vern Buchanan, Vice Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, released the following statement after the Trump administration negotiated a deal to prevent U.S.-based companies from paying a global minimum corporate tax:

“The Biden administration’s agreement to a global minimum corporate tax rate was a disastrous mistake that surrendered U.S. tax sovereignty to Europe. It would have crippled American businesses’ ability to compete and create new jobs.

“President Trump and Secretary Bessent have secured a strong deal that protects U.S. companies from unfair foreign taxes and defends American competitiveness. I’m proud of the role the Ways and Means Committee played to achieve this victory by making clear during our drafting of the Working Families Tax Cuts that raising taxes on foreign companies was on the table if an exemption for U.S. companies was not secured.

“Congressional Republicans will continue to work to protect American companies and workers from foreign interference.”

The OECD global minimum corporate tax rate, agreed up during the Biden administration, encourages countries to impose various taxes to ensure that large companies pay at least 15 percent in each jurisdiction where they operate. Congressional Republicans opposed this measure, and the House passed the Working Families Tax Cuts that included retaliatory countermeasures against any foreign government that imposed unfair taxes. These countermeasures were ultimately removed from the final bill when the G7 publicly committed to respecting U.S. tax sovereignty.

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Buchanan Statement on U.S. Action in Venezuela

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Vern Buchanan released the following statement following U.S. action in Venezuela:

“Nicolás Maduro is a brutal dictator whose corrupt and oppressive regime brought untold suffering to the Venezuelan people and endangered American security. His actions have cost innocent American lives as he worked with our greatest adversaries, supported violent cartels and enabled the flow of drugs to the U.S.

“His capture marks a turning point in the fight for freedom and democracy in Venezuela. After years of hardship, the Venezuelan people now have a chance to build a free and prosperous future.

“I commend the incredible bravery of the U.S. servicemembers who carried out this mission and helped bring a dangerous tyrant to justice. The U.S. military remains second to none.”

Buchanan has served as Chairman of the House Democracy Partnership (HDP) since 2023 and has served on the Commission for over than a decade. Under his leadership, the House Democracy Partnership worked with more than 1,600 combined Members of Parliament and staff globally from 47 unique countries.

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Honoring WWII hero and Ocean County nativeNew Toms River VA facility officially named “Leonard G. ‘Bud’ Lomell VA Clinic”

In accordance with legislation offered by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) in July and signed into law by President Trump in September, the newly constructed Toms River VA facility was today named in honor of Second Lieutenant Leonard G. “Bud” Lomell, a World War II hero and longtime Toms River resident.

Rep. Smith, the former Chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, said, “Today, directed by an act of Congress, signed by the President of the United States, this world-class VA outpatient clinic is named in honor of local hero Leonard G. ‘Bud’ Lomell, further recognizing Bud as one of the bravest and most highly decorated combat soldiers of World War II.”

At a well-attended ceremony inside of the Toms River Veterans’ Clinic, Bud’s daughter, Renee Lomell—speaking on behalf of Bud’s family and his widow, 104-year-old Charlotte Ewart Lomell, who was also in attendance—delivered moving remarks about her father’s valorous military service and extensive work to help veterans acclimate to civilian life.

“Thank you, Representative Smith, for all that you have done for the veterans throughout the years, particularly for recognizing the need for a VA Clinic to serve this part of the state, first at Brick, and now in Toms River. Thank you for your perseverance through the very lengthy legislative process,” said Renee Lomell.

“[Bud] would be so pleased that the Toms River VA Clinic offers such a range of services, including help for PTSD and a Women’s Health Department. Dad understood the cost of war and the need for the services of the VA,” she continued.

Also in attendance was J. Mark Mutter, former Toms River Township Clerk and Historian, and former Toms River Mayor Maurice “Mo” Hill, who spearheaded the local effort to name the VA clinic in Bud’s honor.

“This building now stands in memory of a man who stood in the middle of the 20th century—and turned history for the better. In the end, it’s all about what Bud fought for and stood for: freedom and democracy,” remarked J. Mark Mutter.

“While we cannot repay Bud and his fellow Rangers for the sacrifices they made to ensure our freedom, the naming of this clinic will ensure that Bud’s heroic legacy lives on,” said Smith.

In his floor speech accompanying the introduction of H. R. 2170, “To name the Department of Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in Toms River, New Jersey, the Leonard G. 'Bud' Lomell, VA Clinic, and for other purposes,” Smith described Lomell’s heroic actions during World War II, for which he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart with two Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Legion of Honor medals.

During his remarks, Smith detailed the “nearly impossible mission” Lomell and his Army Rangers were tasked with, stating that they needed to scale the “100-foot cliffs at Pointe du Hoc and destroy the Germans’ 155-millimeter artillery guns with a range of 10-15 miles that threatened the entire Allied invasion, which they believed were positioned at the top of the cliffs.”

Despite heavy causalities and injuries, Lomell and his Rangers continued with their mission and successfully destroyed all the Germans’ concealed artillery guns with thermite grenades, saving countless lives and ensuring Allied success during the D-Day invasion. After successfully completing his mission on D-Day, Lomell served in several pivotal battles, including the Battle of Hurtgen Forest and the Battle of the Bulge, and was honorably discharged from the Army in December of 1945.

Upon his honorable discharge, Lomell returned to civilian life and married Charlotte Ewart, a public health nurse, and had three daughters, Georgine, Pauline, and Renee. He soon became the first director of the Ocean County Veterans Service Bureau, where he supported his fellow veterans as they transitioned out of military service. He remained in touch with this fellow Rangers and was elected President of the Ranger Battalion Association of World War II in 1965.

Lomell also founded one of Ocean County’s largest law firms and served in numerous civic organizations, including the First National Bank of Toms River, the Dover Township Board of Education, and the Garden State Philharmonic Symphony Society.

“The 68,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility bearing Bud’s name provides both primary and specialty care, including dental care, women's health care, mental health counseling, physical therapy, and laboratory services. This clinic has already done so much for our community—it is only right that it be named after a true war hero, who dedicated his life to the service of his country and its veterans,” remarked Smith.

Also attending today’s ceremony was WWII Army Ranger veteran and 100-year-old constituent from Point Pleasant, PFC John Wardell, who served with Bud. At a Capitol Hill ceremony in June—made possible through legislation (S 1872; PL 117-132) supported by Smith in 2022—PFC Wardell was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the oldest and highest civilian award in the United States, on behalf of all U.S. Army Ranger veterans in recognition of their service and sacrifice during WWII.

PFC Wardell served with Second Lieutenant Lomell during the Battle of Hurtgen Forest, and he also fought in the Battle of Normandy and the Battle of Brest. For his bravery and sacrifice during these battles, PFC Wardell received the Purple Heart medal upon his honorable discharge in October of 1945.

The Bud Lomell VA Clinic is a next-gen version of the VA clinic that Smith helped to establish in Brick Township in 1991. After writing legislation that passed the House of Representatives on three separate occasions, Smith secured the much-needed clinic, which served veterans from Ocean and Monmouth counties for over two decades, until it outgrew its capacity.

In 2003, Smith convinced VA Secretary Anthony Principi to open a new VA clinic in Fort Monmouth to help alleviate the excess capacity, and in 2014, Smith was part of a leadership team to require the VA to authorize new leases for clinics, which ultimately led to the new clinic in Toms River.

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WATCH: Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) comments on U.S. military action in Venezuela and the arrest of dictator Nicolas Maduro

Washington, Jan 5, 2026

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Lakewood Alerts article on official naming of Leonard G. 'Bud' Lomell VA Clinic'Toms River VA Clinic Officially Named for World War II Hero Leonard G. "Bud" Lomell'

By Lakewood Alerts

Published January 5, 2026

The newly constructed Toms River Department of Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic was formally named Monday in honor of World War II hero Second Lieutenant Leonard G. “Bud” Lomell, following legislation sponsored by Chris Smith and signed into law by Donald Trump last fall.

The designation was marked by a ceremony inside the Toms River Veterans’ Clinic attended by lawmakers, veterans, local officials, and members of the Lomell family. The act of Congress directs that the facility be known as the Leonard G. “Bud” Lomell VA Clinic.

Speaking at the event, Smith, a former chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, said the naming recognizes Lomell as “one of the bravest and most highly decorated combat soldiers of World War II,” and ensures that his legacy of military service and advocacy for veterans will endure.

Lomell’s daughter, Renee Lomell, delivered remarks on behalf of the family and Lomell’s widow, 104-year-old Charlotte Ewart Lomell, who was present at the ceremony. She thanked Smith for his long-standing work on behalf of veterans in Ocean and Monmouth counties and for his persistence in securing both the original Brick Township clinic and the new Toms River facility. She noted that her father would have been especially gratified by the clinic’s wide range of services, including care for post-traumatic stress disorder and women’s health.

Also attending were former Toms River Township Clerk and Historian J. Mark Mutter and former Toms River Mayor Maurice “Mo” Hill, who led the local effort to have the clinic named for Lomell. Mutter said the building now stands as a reminder of Lomell’s role in shaping history and defending democratic values.

During a floor speech accompanying the introduction of H.R. 2170, Smith detailed Lomell’s actions on D-Day as a U.S. Army Ranger tasked with scaling the 100-foot cliffs at Pointe du Hoc to destroy German artillery that threatened the Allied invasion. Despite heavy casualties, Lomell and his unit located and destroyed the concealed guns using thermite grenades. Lomell later fought in the Battle of the Hürtgen Forest and the Battle of the Bulge before being honorably discharged in December 1945.

For his service, Lomell received the Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, Bronze Star, Purple Heart with two Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Legion of Honor.

After the war, Lomell returned to Toms River, married Charlotte Ewart, and raised three daughters. He became the first director of the Ocean County Veterans Service Bureau, helping veterans transition to civilian life, and later served as president of the Ranger Battalion Association of World War II. He also founded one of Ocean County’s largest law firms and was active in numerous civic organizations.

The ceremony also recognized WWII Army Ranger veteran PFC John Wardell, a 100-year-old Point Pleasant resident who served alongside Lomell. Wardell was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in June on behalf of all U.S. Army Ranger veterans of World War II.

The 68,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art clinic provides primary and specialty care, including dental services, women’s health care, mental health counseling, physical therapy, and laboratory services. The facility replaces the earlier Brick Township clinic established in 1991, which eventually outgrew its capacity, and reflects a multi-decade effort by Smith to expand VA services in the region.

This article was published on January 5, 2026 and can be found online at:


Press Advisory and Statement: Congressman Cohen to Speak at a Hearing Marking Five Years Since the January 6th Attack on the U.S. Capitol

WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Judiciary Committee who was in House Chamber when insurrectionists attacked the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, will question witnesses and testify at a special House hearing on the fifth anniversary of that violent attempt to subvert democracy. The hearing will focus on what happened and the importance of accountability. Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

“I was in the House Chamber when the rioters began smashing the doors as armed Capitol Police tried to hold them at bay. I retreated to my office and locked the doors, arming myself with a commemorative baseball bat. The threat to our democracy was real and it was instigated by Donald Trump. People died. On this solemn anniversary, the American people should know and accept the facts. I’m proud to have been asked to participate in this hearing about that terrible day.

“January 6th produced many heroes – the Capitol Police, the Metropolitan D.C. Police, the National Guard – but the greatest hero from my perspective was Special Counsel Jack Smith, who was recently called before the Judiciary Committee for a deposition. This wasn’t a search for the truth; it was a pretextual trap designed for revenge. He told the Committee: ‘Our investigation developed proof beyond a reasonable doubt that President Trump engaged in a criminal scheme to overturn the results of the 2020 election and to prevent the lawful transfer of power.’ That’s what this hearing is all about.”

What: A hearing on the fifth anniversary of the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol

Who: Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, former January 6 Select Committee Chairman Bennie Thompson, former Select Committee members, current House members (including Congressman Cohen), and expert witnesses

When: Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 10 a.m. Eastern Time – 9 a.m. Central time.

Where: Capitol Visitor Center – HVC-215 (Only accredited media are eligible to attend in person.)

Watch a livestream of the hearing here.

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DeGette Statement on Changes to the Childhood Immunization Schedule

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Energy & Commerce Health Subcommittee Ranking Member Diana DeGette (CO-01) released the following statement after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published updates to the Childhood Immunization Schedule:

“This reckless change in the vaccine schedule by RFK Jr. and his hand-picked team of anti-vaxxers is a direct attack on the health of every American. It abandons decades of rigorous evidence and concern for the health and wellbeing of American families.

“Every reputable health care provider knows this is a dangerous and terrible idea. Without these vaccines, more children will die from preventable illnesses. The flu alone has already killed nine children this season.

"Trump and RFK Jr. aren’t just gambling with lives today—they’re sabotaging the future of American medicine. Researchers will abandon their work here rather than live under an administration hostile to science itself. The next preventable illness will stay incurable because this administration fired the scientists and installed the conspiracy theorists instead.”


DeLauro Announces House Vote on Expired Health Care Subsidies, Increasing Premiums

Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) announced that this Thursday the House of Representatives will vote on final passage to extend for three years Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies that keep health care affordable for more than 143,000 people in Connecticut through Access Health CT.

“Republicans failed to advance a three-year extension of the Affordable Care Act subsidies that would keep health care affordable for 26 million Americans and 143,000 Connecticut residents this year,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “However, thanks to the efforts of House Democrats and a few Republicans, we were able to force a vote on a three-year extension of these desperately needed subsidies. I urge my Republican colleagues to stand with their constituents who are struggling because of the affordability crisis President Trump has intensified.”

Access Health CT recently announced the final deadline to enroll in a health or dental plan for 2026 has been extended to Saturday, January 31st. The original deadline was Thursday, January 15th. To find out if you’re eligible for additional relief through Access Health CT, click here.

In December, Governor Lamont announced that Connecticut would spend $70 million to partly offset the loss of the ACA subsidies that Connecticut residents rely on.


Congressman Estes Releases Statement on International Tax Side-by-Side Agreement

WASHINGTON - Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, released the following statement following the international tax side-by-side agreement that was made:

“I cannot overstate the importance of this development for protecting U.S. tax sovereignty, American workers, and U.S. businesses competing globally. Under this side-by-side agreement, U.S. companies continue to be governed by U.S. tax law, while OECD Pillar Two rules are adjusted to ensure they do not unfairly apply to U.S.-parented companies. From the outset, the objective has been clear – to prevent double taxation and discriminatory treatment of U.S. firms.

I’m grateful to the U.S. Department of the Treasury and its negotiating team for engaging constructively with G7 and OECD partners and for advancing a framework that respects U.S. tax law while allowing for international engagement. I also thank Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith for setting clear congressional expectations and for his leadership in ensuring that any agreement protects U.S. competitiveness and Congress’ taxing authority. Additionally, thank you to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo for reinforcing congressional oversight, insisting on fairness for U.S. taxpayers, and coordinating with Treasury and international partners to achieve this outcome.

This agreement reflects clear and meaningful progress. As always, however, we must trust but verify. Congress can welcome this development while maintaining strong and vigilant oversight. Verification is essential to ensure that other countries fully implement their commitments through real-world compliance, not just written assurances.

I remain committed to robust congressional oversight of the agreement’s implementation, including close monitoring to ensure that U.S. companies are protected from the Undertaxed Profits Rule (UTPR) and similar mechanisms.

This side-by-side agreement represents a step in the right direction for U.S. tax policy. I will continue working to ensure it delivers on its promises and keeps American workers and businesses first.”

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Federal Aviation Administration Announces Multiple Grants Awarded to Kansas’ Fourth District Airports

WASHINGTON – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) is pleased to share that the Federal Aviation Administration has awarded over two million dollars in federal grants from the FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) Grants to airports across Kansas’ 4th Congressional District. The AIP funds airport infrastructure projects, such as runway construction, taxiway rehabilitation, airport signage, airport lighting, and airport markings. These grants strengthen our nation’s aviation infrastructure and enhance safety and capacity.

“Kansas’ 4th Congressional District is home to the Air Capital of the World,” Congressman Estes said. “I’m thrilled to see these grants being awarded to airports across south central Kansas so our airports can undertake critical infrastructure rehabilitation, construction and safety projects.”

The grants awarded include:

Location: El Dorado, Kan. (El Dorado / Captain Jack Thomas Memorial Airport)

Project description: Rehabilitates 4,000 feet of existing concrete runway to maintain its structural integrity and minimize foreign object debris to extend its useful life.

Amount awarded: $320,633

Location: Wichita, Kan. (Colonel James Jabara Airport)

Project description: Reconstructs 550 feet of existing paved taxiway pavement that has reached the end of its useful life.

Amount awarded: $636,503

Location: Medicine Lodge, Kan. (Medicine Lodge Airport)

Project description: Reconstructs existing airport drainage that has reached the end of its useful life.

Amount awarded: $192,950

Location: Anthony, Kan. (Anthony Municipal Airport)

Project description: Constructs a new 640-foot taxi lane to provide airfield access to a non-exclusive hangar development area to bring the airport into conformity with current standards.

Amount awarded: $292,055

Location: Newton, Kan. (Newton City/County Airport)

Project description: Reconstructs 3,501 feet of existing paved runway that has reached the end of its useful life.

Amount awarded: $282,000

Location: Pratt, Kan. (Pratt Regional Airport)

Project description: Reseals 5,500 feet of existing runway pavement and joints to extend its useful life.

Amount awarded: $375,250

Location: Kingman, Kan. (Kingman/Clyde Cessna Field)

Project description: Extends existing taxiway by an additional 1,700 feet in length to bring the airport into conformity with current standards.

Amount awarded: $536,750

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Feenstra Leads Legislation to Protect Iowa Farmers from Fatal Tractor Rollovers

HULL, IOWA — Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) introduced the Roll-Over Prevention and Safety (ROPS) Act, which would create a cost-share grant program at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to assist farmers in retrofitting tractors with rollover protection structures (ROPS).

“Iowa farmers feed and fuel our country and the world, working long hours, making unseen sacrifices, and risking their safety. In the United States, tractor rollovers are the leading cause of fatal accidents on our farms. But these tragic deaths are preventable with the right safety precautions,” said Rep. Feenstra. “That’s why I introduced legislation to help Iowa farmers retrofit their tractors to keep themselves and their loved ones safe in the event of a tractor rollover. These measures will save lives and keep our farming communities safe and strong.”

“ROPS save lives. It’s that simple. If a farmer is willing to do dangerous work to feed this country, then the least Washington can do is make sure they get home safe at the end of the day. This is about standing with Upstate farmers, backing good local jobs, and keeping family farms in business,” said Rep. Josh Riley (D-NY).

“As a fourth-generation farmer raising the fifth, I know firsthand how dangerous farm work can be and how important it is to protect the people who do it. I’m proud to help introduce this commonsense legislation that will help farmers retrofit their tractors with rollover protection – strengthening farm safety and ensuring those who devote their lives to feeding and fueling our country are able to get home safely to their families at the end of the day,” said Rep. Brad Finstad (R-MN).

“Farmers perform some of the most demanding and dangerous work and unquestionably deserve protection. The Roll-Over Prevention and Safety Act allows them to upgrade their tractors, ensuring safety and saving lives,” said Rep. Don Davis (D-NC).

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

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

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

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

This legislation was introduced alongside Reps. Josh Riley (D-NY), Brad Finstad (R-MN), and Don Davis (D-NC) as well as Sens. Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Jim Justice (R-WV), and Raphael Warnock (D-GA).

The legislation specifically would help to continue operations of the National ROPS Rebate Program through the USDA by establishing a grant program that would provide farmers or an eligible school with a grant that covers up to 70% of the costs to purchase, transport, and install an approved ROPS, with a $500 out-of-pocket cap for the farmer. Additionally, USDA will establish a website and phone hotline to assist in the application and installation process.

“Tractor rollovers are the leading cause of on-farm deaths, but they are entirely preventable,” said Kip Eideberg, Senior Vice President of Government and Industry Relations for the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM). “Farmers who rely on older equipment should not have to choose between keeping their family safe and keeping their operations running. This legislation is a commonsense, bipartisan solution that will save lives, strengthen rural communities, and ensure that every farmer has access to the safety technology they deserve. Equipment manufacturers are proud to support this effort to make our farms safer and our agricultural workforce more secure.”

“Safety for farm equipment operators is a priority, but enhancing older equipment can be extremely expensive," said AFBF Director of Government Affairs John Walt Boatright. "Farm Bureau is proud to support this legislation and applauds this bipartisan group of congressional leaders for making critical safety improvements more accessible to farmers and for helping protect both farmers and their employees.”

“We extend our appreciation to Rep. Feenstra for his leadership in introducing the Roll-Over Prevention and Safety Act. By establishing this cost-share initiative through the USDA, we take a step toward reducing rollover incidents and ensuring that farmers have the essential equipment and resources to return home safely each day,” said Tom Adam, Iowa Soybean Association President and farmer from Harper, Iowa.

“Iowa farmers rely on their large equipment, like tractors, to produce their crops and care for their livestock throughout the year, but accidents do happen, and introduction of the Roll-Over Prevention and Safety (ROPS) Act would help farmers secure funding to retrofit their tractors with rollover protection structures,” said Mark Mueller, Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) President and farmer from Waverly, Iowa. “ICGA would like to thank Rep. Feenstra and Rep. Riley for introducing this Act with farmer safety in mind.”

“Farming remains one of America’s most hazardous occupations, with tractor rollovers among the leading causes of on-farm fatalities. The ROPS Act offers an effective, cost-share solution to help farmers retrofit their equipment and enhance operator safety. We thank Representatives Feenstra, Riley, Finstad, and Davis, as well as Senators Hyde-Smith, Bennet, Justice, and Warnock, for their bipartisan support of this important legislation,” said American Soybean Association President Scott Metzger, an Ohio soybean farmer.

“The National Cotton Council strongly supports the ROPS Act, which offers a commonsense approach to addressing a leading hazard in rural America. With overturns continuing to cause preventable tragedies each year, expanding access to proven rollover protection structures is a practical step that will help keep our farmers safe,” said the National Cotton Council.

“The National Association of Wheat Growers commends Reps. Feenstra and Riley for introducing the Roll-Over Prevention and Safety Act and strongly supports this bipartisan, practical solution that helps farmers retrofit equipment to improve farm safety and save lives,” said Sam Kieffer, NAWG CEO.

“CoBank is proud to support the introduction of the Roll-Over Prevention and Safety Act by this group of thoughtful legislators. This legislation will support the farming industry while also protecting the precious lives of farmers working every day to support their families and communities. This equipment has already proven to save the lives of many, and supporting a national effort will only help to protect all farmers across the country. We are proud of the work done with this bipartisan group and will continue to find ways to help support the wellbeing of the agriculture industry,” said Brian Cavey, CoBank Senior Vice President of Government Affairs and Knowledge Exchange.

“Supporting farmers and farmworkers’ health and wellbeing must remain a top priority,” said the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture CEO Ted McKinney. “NASDA continues to support policies that promote farm safety and looks forward to bringing states, federal partners and industry together to ensure farmers and ranchers have the training, tools and protections they need to operate safely.”

“Having spent an entire career working to ensure farmers safety and wellbeing at work, it has been difficult to hear their stories about the traumatic deaths and injuries caused by tractor overturns. This is particularly true, because these events could have been easily avoided with the installation of something as simple as a rollbar. Given the leadership of Representatives Feenstra, Riley, Finstad, Davis and Senators Hyde-Smith, Bennet, Justice, Warnock it is wonderful to see legislation that has the potential to eliminate one of the most frequent causes of death on farms by providing support vs. issuing penalties. This is an amazing milestone,” said Julie Sorensen, Chair of the National ROPS Rebate Program.

This bill has been endorsed by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, American Farm Bureau Federation, National Farmers Union, John Deere, CoBank, Farm Credit, National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, National Milk Producers Federation, American Soybean Association, National Corn Growers Association, USA Rice, National Cotton Council, National Association of Wheat Growers, Iowa Soybean Association, Iowa Corn Growers Association, New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health, Northeastern Organic Farmers Association of New York, Mississippi Farm Bureau, and Delta Council.

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Fitzpatrick Brings NIH Director to Bucks County to Highlight Biomedical Innovation and Public Health Leadership

DOYLESTOWN, PA—Today,CongressmanBrian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) welcomed Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), to Bucks County for a visit to the Hepatitis B Foundation, the Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, and the Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center (PABC)—three nationally recognized non-profit institutions whose work has long stood at the forefront of biomedical discovery, public health advancement, and the development of lifesaving treatments.

A longtime partner of all three organizations, Fitzpatrick arranged the visit and accompanied Dr. Bhattacharya throughout the PABC campus. Since coming to Congress, Fitzpatrick has consistently fought to protect stable and reliable NIH funding, grounded in the understanding that biomedical progress depends not only on discovery, but on the continuity required to deliver results.

During the visit, Fitzpatrick and Dr. Bhattacharya toured research laboratories and met with scientists conducting NIH-funded translal research focused on hepatitis B, liver disease, and cancer. They also participated in a roundtable discussion with leaders from the host institutions and biotechnology companies operating on campus to discuss drug development and related research underway across nearly 60 companies based at PABC, much of it made possible through sustained NIH investment.

The visit underscored the critical role regional research hubs like PABC play in advancing national biomedical priorities and translating federally funded science into real-world treatments.

“This campus has never been peripheral to American biomedical progress—it has helped carry it forward for generations,” Fitzpatrick said. “For decades, the Hepatitis B Foundation, the Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, and the Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center have applied scientific excellence and innovation in the service of public health—turning discovery into cures and research into public good. Today’s visit was about stewardship—ensuring that national research priorities and funding decisions are guided by institutions that have earned the country’s trust through results, integrity, and impact over time. I am grateful to Lou Kassa and the teams across PABC, the Hepatitis B Foundation, and the Blumberg Institute for their leadership and vision, and to Dr. Bhattacharya for his partnership. I look forward to continuing this work together so that PA-1 remains a place where American biomedical leadership is not only strengthened—but sustained.”

"The PA Biotechnology Center is a unique biomedical ecosystem that brings together brilliant scientists to address scientific questions from the basic understanding of disease to drug discovery. The Central Bucks and PABC partnership for students taking AP Chemistry is an exciting and novel opportunity to train the future workforce in biomedicine. I appreciate Representative Fitzpatrick organizing this tour and bringing me to the PABC,” said Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, NIH Director.

“Our organizations exemplify the power of collaboration—where basic science, clinical insight, public health, and biotechnology come together to tackle some of our most pressing health challenges. It was a pleasure to host NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick and walk them through our labs, where Blumberg scientists and member companies are conducting top-tier research and translating discovery into real-world impact. We appreciate Congressman Fitzpatrick’s continued partnership, and the opportunity to have a productive conversation about the federal government’s role in supporting scientific innovation and the translation of discovery into treatments and cures,” said Louis P. Kassa III, MPA, CEO of the three nonprofits and president of the PABC.

Congressman Fitzpatrick has made advancing the work of the Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center and its partner institutions a sustained priority—bringing national scientific leadership to Bucks County, advocating for the continuity these institutions require, and elevating the research rooted here to inform national biomedical progress. His focus remains on ensuring that the work being done in his community moves forward without interruption and delivers meaningful results for patients nationwide.

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RELEASE: Congresswoman Friedman Marks Productive First Year in Congress

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA — U.S. Representative Laura Friedman (CA-30) marked her first year in Congress, touting a record that includes a slate of commonsense solutions to the most pressing issues facing Angelenos, including standing up to the Trump Administration and new legislation to bring down the cost of housing, disaster recovery assistance, and the affordability crisis.

“Despite constant attacks on our community, on the rule of law, and on affordable healthcare, I am proud of the work I’ve done in Congress. This is just a start, and I know there’s a lot more we need to do,” said U.S. Representative Friedman. “I am committed to the fight to make life more affordable and protect our democracy more than ever.”

Friedman’s led or co-led critical, commonsense bills including the:

Cut Red Tape for Housing Act – which cuts through the bureaucracy that is holding up affordable housing and making rent unaffordable.

The Restoring Essential Healthcare Act — bicameral legislation which repeals Republicans’ enacted ban on Medicaid reimbursements for services provided at Planned Parenthood clinics.

Don’t Penalize Victims Act – which prevents disaster victims, like those impacted by Los Angeles' devastating fires, from being punished for accepting donations from their neighbors, charities, or churches.

The Safe and Affordable Transit Act – which makes commutes safer without putting a dent in taxpayers' wallets.

Rim of the Valley Corridor Preservation Act – which Rep. Friedman is co-leading with Senator Adam Schiff to protect and add access to Los Angeles’s surrounding wilderness.

No Masks For ICE Act – to unmask ICE agents and ensure Americans have accountability and transparency when interacting with federal agents.

Tariff Review Act of 2025 – a bill that will help end Trump’s unnecessary tariffs to lower prices for Americans.

Raise the Wage Act of 2025 – which raises the minimum wage and empowers more American workers.

Friedman is working on a National Film Tax Credit to bring back production jobs and boost the small businesses that depend on the film and TV industry. Friedman has also faced the Trump Administration head-on on issues like access to affordable healthcare, disaster relief, and more. She has rallied with nurses, community clinics, and hospitals; demanded answers from the acting FEMA director about why they are failing disaster victims; and stood against Trump’s Big, Bad Ugly Bill at every turn.

Friedman’s office has solved more than 1,450 constituent cases. The resolution of these cases, ranging from issues with Social Security, the IRS, and other agencies, has returned more than $5,500,000 directly to taxpayers.

Friedman has been active in her district, having gone to more than 200 community events and more than 25 rallies and town halls. In addition to that, Friedman has made weekly visits to clinics, hospitals, businesses, schools, and charities in her district to hear directly from community members about their fears and issues.

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Rep. Grijalva Denounces Trump's Unconsitutional Regime Change in Venezuela

Tucson, AZ - Rep. Grijalva released the following statement following the capture of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela. The statement is also available in Spanish below:

"The Constitution is clear: only Congress has the authority to declare war. By bypassing Congress, President Trump is not only violating the law, but also dangerously expanding presidential power beyond its constitutional limits. This executive overreach erodes democratic accountability and sets a precedent that should alarm every American, regardless of party.

Let’s be honest about what this is really about: power, regime change, and oil and minerals. We have seen this playbook before in Latin America and elsewhere, and we have paid the price for it—through endless conflict and regional instability, leading to increased forced migration and humanitarian needs. When are we going to learn the lessons of our own history?

Unilateral military action increases the risk of escalation and wider conflict, undermining global stability and putting civilians, both abroad and at home, at greater risk. It is also clear that Trump has zero plan whatsoever for what comes next.

At a time when Americans are struggling to afford rent, groceries, and health care, President Trump is spending billions playing dictator abroad while doing nothing to improve the lives of working families here at home.

The American people deserve a foreign policy rooted in the rule of law, diplomacy, congressional oversight and accountability—not one driven by ego and exploitation."

EN ESPAÑOL:

La Congresista Grijalva emitió la siguiente declaración tras la captura de Nicolás Maduro en Venezuela:


Bipartisan Danish Caucus Co-Chairs Statement on Greenland and Denmark

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

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

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

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

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


Congressman Hudson Releases Statement on the Capture of Narco-Terrorist Dictator Nicolas Maduro

Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09), released the following statement following the capture of Narco-Terrorist Dictator Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela.

"Democrats spent years making excuses while an illegitimate dictator and indicted Narco-Terrorist destabilized the hemisphere and endangered American lives. Accountability finally came.

Parents in our community can rest easier knowing a major peddler of fentanyl is off the streets.

I’m grateful for the heroes who carried out this mission and praying for their safe return home."


Rep. Hudson, North Carolina Delegation Secure $213 Million Rural Health Investment for NC Communities

Last week, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced North Carolina will receive $213 million under the Rural Health Transformation Program, one of the largest funds for rural health programs in history, created by President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cut.

“I’m pleased that President Trump and House Republicans delivered $213 million for North Carolina through H.R. 1, the Working Families Tax Cut, creating the largest rural health care investment in a generation,” said Rep. Hudson. “As one of the most rural states in the nation, serving nearly eight percent of the U.S. rural population, North Carolina is well-positioned to expand access to care and strengthen rural providers.

“I’m disappointed the Governor’s Office did not coordinate with federal and local partners during the application process, which appears to have limited the funding our communities deserve,” Hudson continued. “I look forward to continued engagement with rural providers and stakeholders to make sure North Carolinians get the health care access they need.”

This comes shortly after U.S. Representative Richard Hudson and the North Carolina congressional delegation sent a letter urging CMS to allocate funds to match the vast rural population North Carolina serves. They urged approval of North Carolina’s application and outlined the urgent need to recognize the state’s uniquely rural population and health care challenges.

North Carolina is home to nearly 3 million rural residents across 85 counties, making it the second-most rural state in the nation and accounting for up to eight percent of the U.S. rural population.

These funds come from the Rural Health Transformation Program — part of a $50 billion, five-year investment designed to expand access to care, support rural providers, strengthen the health care workforce, and modernize rural health infrastructure.

The delegation specifically highlighted that existing federal guidance excluded counties such as Moore and Pitt, which serve some of North Carolina’s most isolated rural patients, while including larger urban counties. Members pressed CMS to ensure funding decisions reflected real-world rural health care delivery rather than arbitrary classifications.

Why this matters for North Carolina:

24 counties lack adequate primary care access

90 counties are designated mental health shortage areas

12 rural hospitals have closed since 2006

Rural Health Transformation Program – North Carolina Impact

Created under President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cut, the Rural Health Transformation Program represents the largest investment in rural health care in a generation, designed to:

Expand access to affordable, quality care in rural communities

Support and retain rural health care providers

Strengthen workforce development

Invest in technology, innovation, and health infrastructure

Improve preventive care and long-term health outcomes


LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT ON THE HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE ON THE STRATEGIC COMPETITION BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES AND THE CHINESE COMMUNIST PARTY

Know Your Immigration Rights

If you or a loved one encounter immigration enforcement officials, it is essential that you know your rights and have prepared your household for all possible outcomes.

Ask for a warrant: The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. You do not have to open your door until you see a valid warrant to enter your home or search your belongings.

Your right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You are not required to share any personal information such as your place of birth, immigration status or criminal history.

Always consult an attorney: You have a right to speak with an attorney. You do not have to sign anything or hand officials any documents without speaking to an attorney. Try to identify and consult one in advance.

The New York City Office of Civil Justice and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) support a variety of free immigration legal services through local nonprofit legal organizations. To access these resources, dial 311 and say “Action NYC,” call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365 Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or visit MOIA’s website.


LEADER JEFFRIES: “THE AMERICAN PEOPLE REJECT THE POSSIBILITY OF ANOTHER UNJUSTIFIED FOREIGN WAR”

Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries spoke at a press conference, where he emphasized that House Democrats are committed to lowering the high cost of living and protecting healthcare, while the Trump administration has done nothing to benefit the American people.

LEADER JEFFRIES: The Trump administration has started 2026 in the same way that they spent all of 2025: unleashing chaos, crisis and corruption at levels unprecedented in modern American history. The Trump administration has not done a damn thing throughout its entire time in office to make life better for the American people. Donald Trump and the administration and the Republican extremists, they promised all of 2024, when they were on the campaign trail trying to get power, that they were going to lower costs. In fact, it was Donald Trump who said costs would go down on day one of his administration. A year later, costs haven’t gone down in the United States of America. Costs have gone up.

The affordability crisis is not a hoax. It is very real. Housing costs out of control, grocery costs out of control, utility costs out of control, child care costs out of control and healthcare costs out of control. This week, as a result of a Democratic-led effort, the House of Representatives will vote on bipartisan legislation to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits so we can prevent tens of millions of Americans from experiencing dramatically-increased premiums, co-pays and deductibles this month, increases that in some cases could result in everyday Americans paying $1,000 or $2,000 more per month. Completely and totally unacceptable in the United States of America, the wealthiest country in the history of the world.

House Democrats are going to continue to fight to lower the high cost of living, fix our broken healthcare system and make life better for everyday Americans, while Donald Trump and the administration is off starting wars, most recently connected to the unauthorized military action in Venezuela. This wasn’t a law enforcement action. They’re lying to the American people when they say that. It was an unprecedented military act. And yes, in fact, it is the case that Maduro is a bad guy. A dictator. Someone who was not the legitimate head of government or head of state in Venezuela. We also know that the future of the Venezuelan people should be determined by the Venezuelan people, not by Donald Trump, Pete Hegseth or Stephen Miller. Are you kidding me? These people don’t even know how to run the United States of America. And we’re supposed to believe that there’s any credibility to the notion that the Trump administration is going to run Venezuela, a country of 30 million people in South America? The American people reject the possibility of another unjustified foreign war that seems to be on the horizon because of Trump’s desire to reward Big Oil in the United States of America while continuing to not do a damn thing to make life better for the American people.

Full press conference can be watched here.

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Kelly Statement on Treasury Agreement to Exempt U.S.-Headquartered Companies from Biden Global Tax Plan

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA), Chairman of the Ways & Means Subcommittee on Tax, released the following statement after the U.S. Treasury Department announced Monday that U.S.-headquartered multinational companies will be exempt from the OECD Pillar Two global minimum tax framework.

Previously, the Biden administration negotiated the Pillar Two framework without consultation of Congress.

"Thanks to the leadership of the Trump administration, today's agreement protects American businesses and workers from burdensome global bureaucratic overreach and recognizes the tax sovereignty of the United States," said Rep. Kelly. "The Biden administration went around Congress and sold out American-based companies. I want to thank the Trump administration for working hand-in-hand with the Republican Congress in charting an America First path forward, which will allow American job creators to prosper at home and compete on a level playing field abroad."

The agreement also protects the value of the U.S. R&D credit and promises to reduce onerous compliance burdens, fulfilling the shared goal of U.S. leadership in innovation and technological advancement in the international tax and global competitiveness landscape.

BACKGROUND

Rep. Kelly has previously led efforts in Congress to oppose the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD) global minimum tax, known as Pillar 2, what Rep. Kelly called a poorly negotiated by the Biden Administration. During a 2023 hearing, Kelly highlighted how the United States stands to lose over $120 billion in tax revenues under Pillar 2.

"The original idea of engaging in negotiations at the OECD was this: other countries could join the U.S. with their own global minimum taxes and we could stop the proliferation of (Digital Services Taxes). Unfortunately, that’s not what happened at all," Rep. Kelly said in prepared remarks.

You can watch Rep. Kelly's opening statement and full committee hearing here and learn more here.


Krishnamoorthi, Preckwinkle, Patients, and Providers Highlight ACA Tax Credit Expiration at Bronzeville Community Health Center, Warning of Coverage Losses and Strain on Safety-Net Care

CHICAGO—Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) joined Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Cook County Health leadership, and Illinois residents today at Bronzeville Community Health Center on Chicago’s South Side to highlight the real-world consequences of Congress’s failure to extend enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits, which expired at midnight on December 31. Everyday Illinoisans already bearing the brunt of the ACA tax credit cuts joined the event to speak firsthand about how higher premiums have already affected their families and their ability to access care. During the visit, Krishnamoorthi met with patients and providers to hear directly from those navigating rising costs and coverage uncertainty, as well as from community health centers facing increased demand with fewer resources.

“Families were hit overnight with massive premium hikes because congressional Republicans refused to act,” said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. “People who did everything right are now being priced out of care, not because they made a mistake, but because Republican leadership chose politics over patients. I’m fighting to restore these ACA tax credits because affordable health care should not disappear overnight. Congress can fix this by reversing these cuts, protecting Medicaid, and keeping families covered.”

“Local governments should not have to backfill for federal disinvestment,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. "Health care is a right, and we at Cook County will continue to deliver care with compassion and excellence. We will also continue to prove that even in the face of federal cuts, a values-driven public health system can protect lives, strengthen communities, and uphold the dignity of every person we serve."

“Allowing ACA subsidies to expire will reverse health coverage gains, destabilize safety-net systems, and negatively impact working families and communities across Illinois,” said Dr. Erik Mikaitis, CEO, Cook County Health.

More than 550,000 Illinois residents are enrolled in the ACA marketplace in 2025, including over 360,000 Cook County residents, roughly 90 percent of whom rely on premium tax credits to afford coverage. If the credits expire, average monthly ACA premiums in Cook County are projected to rise by about 95 percent, pricing many families out of insurance overnight.

The ACA coverage cliff comes as Cook County Health faces additional strain from President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which cut Medicaid by more than $1 trillion nationwide and imposed new work requirements. More than 3 million Illinois residents—one in four statewide—depend on Medicaid, which accounts for approximately 56 percent of Cook County Health’s patient revenue. The system estimates it could lose $88 million annually in Medicaid reimbursements as patients lose coverage.


Larsen Demands Answers about Trump Administration's Actions in Venezuela

Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement demanding answers from the Trump administration about its actions in Venezuela:

“While I am glad that the dictator Nicolás Maduro will face justice in U.S. federal court, the Trump administration’s actions raise serious concerns at home in Northwest Washington and abroad.

“First, federal action to fight the fentanyl epidemic must focus on what works: supporting law enforcement’s interdiction efforts at land and sea ports of entry, and supporting local treatment and recovery services. The flow of drugs from Mexican cartels and Colombian jungles into Northwest Washington has devastated families and communities I represent. The good news is that drug seizures over the last two months as reported by Customs and Border Protection are up significantly, continuing a trend started during the Biden administration. Also, the U.S. Coast Guard has reported capturing more cocaine in the past year than any previous year.

“Will the Trump administration support effective interdiction and recovery work, or use Maduro’s arrest to take a superficial victory lap? I will continue to maintain my focus supporting local law enforcement and treatment and recovery services.

“Second, the Administration is openly discussing invading other countries in the region. Will the Trump administration continue to ignore the American people’s voice in the use of military force by failing to come to Congress to get authorization to act? Will the Administration continue to violate international law, giving cover to Putin, Xi and dictators and rogue states across the world? I celebrate the remarkable competence of the U.S. military, and I hold the Trump administration responsible for the policy decisions that drive the military’s actions.

“Finally, the Trump administration has created a power vacuum in Venezuela and risked dragging our country into a new costly quagmire. In the past year, this Administration has driven up the prices Americans must pay for health care, gas and groceries. How does Trump plan to govern Venezuela when his governance of the U.S. has failed so miserably?

“I call for oversight hearings to investigate the Trump administration’s actions and demand answers to these questions.

“While the Trump administration’s attention is divided between solving the problems it created in Venezuela and the problems it created in the U.S., Congress will be in session this week to vote on extending critical tax credits that make health care affordable for 26,000 people in Northwest Washington. I remain relentlessly focused on lowering health care costs, lowering gas prices and lowering grocery prices for the people I represent.”

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Larson Condemns RFK Jr.’s Push to Limit Childhood Vaccines

East Hartford, CT – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) condemned Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s announcement gutting the childhood vaccine schedule, changing the number of recommended vaccinations from 17 to 11. If this policy goes into effect, immunizations for diseases such as RSV, influenza, and Hepatitis A will no longer be recommended to all children.

“The longer Secretary Kennedy remains in his role, the more he will endanger the health of our nation’s children,” said Larson. “This latest move, bypassing even his handpicked advisory panel, is his newest low yet. Mr. Kennedy continues to put his anti-vaccine conspiracy theories ahead of scientific fact, destroying hard-won public health victories. He needs to resign before our kids pay the price for this anti-science agenda.”

Last month, Secretary Kennedy’s vaccine panel reversed decades-long guidance for newborns to receive the Hepatitis B vaccine. In September, Larson called for Kennedy to resign after he doubled down on his anti-vaccine purge during a Senate hearing. Since he was sworn in, Kennedy has dismissed all 17 members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) that recommends vaccines, canceled $500 million in funding for vaccine research, and announced new restrictions on the COVID-19 vaccine.


Rep. Nancy Mace Issues Statement On Vandalism Of Vice President Vance's Cincinnati Home

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Jan. 5, 2026) — Congresswoman Nancy Mace released the following statement after Vice President JD Vance's Cincinnati home was vandalized overnight:

"We are praying for Vice President Vance and the second family after their Cincinnati home was vandalized and windows were broken overnight. This is horrific and completely unacceptable.

"Having faced similar threats and security incidents, we know firsthand the fear and violation which comes with these situations, not just for the public figure, but for spouses, children, and everyone who calls their house a home. No American family should have to live with this kind of terror, regardless of their political position or party affiliation.

"Thank you to the Cincinnati Police Department for their swift action in taking this suspect into custody. We must be better than this, and we must stand united against anyone who believes political differences justify criminal violence."

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Congresswoman McClain Delaney Statement: Trump’s Illegal Actions in Venezuela This Weekend Are Impeachable

WASHINGTON, DC–Today, Congresswoman April McClain Delaney (MD-06) released the following statement:

“I cannot stand by as my Republican colleagues allow President Trump to defy the rule of law, repeatedly overstep the authority of Congress and undermine our national security and the well-being of my fellow Americans.


U.S. Rep. Betty McCollum Statement on Government Walz's Decision Not to Seek a Third Term

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D, MN-04), Dean of the Minnesota Congressional Delegation, issued the following statement on Monday in response to Governor Tim Walz’s announcement that he would not seek a third term as governor:

“I spoke with Governor Tim Walz earlier today and thanked him for his two decades of public service. Since our time serving together in Congress, Tim has been a dear friend and trusted colleague. It has been a privilege to work alongside him on behalf of all Minnesotans. He is making our state and country a stronger and better place to live and raise a family.

“As governor, Tim Walz has successfully led our state through challenging times and has reminded us that we are One Minnesota by enacting historic reforms that have benefited all. Together with the legislature, Governor Walz ushered in a universal paid family and medical leave program, made the largest investment in our infrastructure in state history, adopted a universal free school meals program, protected Minnesotans’ reproductive freedom in the wake of the Dobbs decision, and signed a nation-leading climate law that will help our state reach 100% clean energy by 2040. When his administration discovered fraudulent activity, he took decisive action by establishing the centralized fraud investigative unit of the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension to hold criminals accountable for violating the public trust.

“It is no secret that President Trump feels threatened by Governor Walz’s effective leadership, as evidenced last weekend by his outrageous lies and attacks on Governor Walz over the assassination of Melissa and Mark Hortman. These attacks are shameful and beneath the Office of the President. If Trump and Republicans continue down their path of abusing power, attacking individuals and entire communities, and running their own fraudulent games at the expense of Minnesotans — we will continue to fight back.

“I thank Governor Walz for his outstanding public service and look forward to continuing our work together during the second legislative session of the 119th Congress. As we celebrate the New Year, I wish Tim, Gwen, Hope, and Gus the very best in the next chapter of their lives.”

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McIver on Judge’s Denial of Remaining Motion to Dismiss

NEWARK, NJ – The federal judge overseeing the prosecution of Congresswoman LaMonica McIver (NJ-10) today denied her motion to dismiss Count 2 of the indictment. Despite the fact that the case centers around McIver’s legally authorized congressional oversight visit to an ICE detention facility in her district in May 2025, the judge held that legislative immunity did not apply. McIver made the following statement in response to the court’s opinion:

“Legislative oversight of an ICE detention facility like Delaney Hall can’t be done from behind a desk—it is my responsibility to visit it, inspect it, and hold those running it accountable for any abuses. I’m disappointed by today’s ruling, and remain very concerned about the Trump administration’s efforts to criminalize legislative oversight and operate in the shadows,” said McIver. “Oversight helps prevent the administration from abusing people and violating their rights; when abuses do occur, oversight exposes them. This work is Congress’s job—it’s not ambiguous and it shouldn’t be up for debate. I will keep standing up to protect our communities.”

Last month, McIver returned to the Delaney Hall detention center for an oversight visit after a detainee at the facility died. This was her first time returning to Delaney Hall since charges were brought against her for her earlier oversight visit in May.

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Rep. Thompson Releases Statement on Trump's Actions in Venezuela

President Trump has launched what legal experts say is an illegal military action against Venezuela. Decisions regarding military force when there is no immediate danger to the United States must involve Congress. That’s why I voted in support of the NDAA, which reins in the president’s ability to make unilateral military decisions.

Congress must be convened immediately to hear the legal justification for this attack, its objectives, a detailed timeline for military action, the costs to U.S. taxpayers, and a plan to prevent further chaos in the region.

Second Statement:

House Democrats met today to address the situation in Venezuela. There is no question that Maduro is a terrible person. There is also no question that Congress must be involved in any military operations.

I, along with most Democrats, have already called on the Speaker to convene the House immediately, and our position is unanimous: We stand with the American people in opposing boots on the ground for oil and rejecting any military occupation, whether in Venezuela, Greenland, Canada, Cuba, or anywhere else. Speaker Johnson, convene the House now!