Trahan Supports Bipartisan Legislation to End the GOP Health Care Crisis

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03), a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Health Subcommittee, voted to pass the bipartisan Breaking the Gridlock Act, legislation that would end the Republican-driven health care price hike by extending Affordable Care Act premium tax credits for three years and helping millions of Americans afford their health coverage.

“Republicans broke our health care system, exploding costs for hardworking families so they could pay for a tax cut that overwhelmingly benefits the wealthiest in our country,” said Congresswoman Trahan. “Today’s bipartisan vote in the House sends a clear message to the GOP-controlled Senate – pass this legislation immediately and save Americans’ health care.”

As of January 1, 2026, Republicans in Washington allowed critical Affordable Care Act premium tax credits to expire, driving up health insurance costs for millions of Americans who purchase coverage on their own. The impact has been immediate and severe, hitting working families, small business owners, and the self-employed with dramatic premium increases they cannot afford. In Massachusetts alone, an estimated 328,000 people were set to see their health care costs rise, including 65,400 individuals at risk of losing coverage altogether.

Despite months of efforts by House Democrats to prevent this crisis before the end of 2025, Republicans in Congress rejected every opportunity to reach a bipartisan agreement to protect Americans’ health care. Instead, they approved the longest government shutdown in history and lateradvanced supplemental legislation that would have resulted in an additional 100,000 Americans losing their health coverage.

In December, House Democrats filed a discharge petition to extend the ACA premium tax credits for three years. That effort secured the required 218 signatures to bring the Breaking the Gridlock Act to the House floor, leading to today’s vote. Seventeen Republicans joined all House Democrats in passing the legislation, sending the bill to the Senate for further consideration.

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Representative Tran Brings Over $2 Million to Orange County for New Investment in Public Safety, Flood Protection

Washington, DC – In a major federal funding win for Orange County, U.S. Representative Derek Tran (CA-45) advanced over $2 million in federal dollars for Orange County, which will be used to prevent crime, support law enforcement, and improve critical infrastructure.

Rep. Tran voted for a bipartisan spending bill that passed the House and now awaits Senate approval and the President's signature. The bill includes over $2 million in federal funding for Orange County: $1.031 million for the HOPE Center in Fullerton and $1.09 million for the Myra Avenue Storm Water Pump Station in Cypress. Specifically:

HOPE Center in Fullerton, CA - $1.031 million to hire and train licensed professionals ready for deployment to individuals experiencing homelessness, mental illness, and addiction. By diverting non-violent incidents to specialized professionals, this funding will increase law enforcement’s capacity to respond rapidly to serious crimes and urgent emergencies.

Myra Avenue Storm Water Pump Station in Cypress, CA - $1.09 million to replace a dilapidated 60+ year old flood water pump station that protects over 380 homes and 4 schools, currently left with inadequate flood protection.

“I’m proud to bring over $2 million back to our communities to make life safer and more secure for Orange County families. California families deserve to see their tax dollars at work back in our communities,” said Representative Tran. “When I talk to families back home, the concerns I hear most are about public safety. That’s why I fought so hard to secure over one million dollars to improve support for law enforcement and an additional one million dollars to update Orange County’s aging infrastructure. Community project funding shows California families that their government is working for them, and I look forward to bringing home more resources to make Southern California the best place to live, work, and raise a family.”

The HOPE Center is a nonprofit service organization in Fullerton, CA, which provides housing, food, and healthcare resources to individuals experiencing homelessness and food insecurity in Orange County. The HOPE Center works in partnership with local governments and law enforcement to coordinate resources and support police departments responding to non-emergency calls. The City of Cypress, CA will administer the funding to replace the Myra Avenue Storm Water Pump Station.

The House Appropriations Committee has approved funding levels for Representative Tran’s 13 additional community project funding requests to construct affordable housing, repair local infrastructure, and improve public safety initiatives. If passed by the House and the Senate and signed into law by the President, the community projects in California’s 45th district will receive federal dollars.

Community Project Funding is subject to strict public transparency and accountability requirements, only available to nonprofit and government entities (for-profit grantees are not eligible), and must demonstrate evidence of compelling community support. In addition, each Member of Congress must certify in writing that there is no financial interest in the project for them and their immediate family. All projects will be audited by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to ensure sound stewardship of taxpayer dollars.

For more information on Representative Tran’s FY 2026 Community Project Funding requests, click here.

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


Representatives Tran, Kamlager-Dove Urge Los Angeles County Leaders to Prioritize Public Safety Concerns Amidst Ongoing Contract Negotiation

Los Angeles, CA – Today, U.S. Representatives Derek Tran (CA-45) and Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) sent a letter to Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Hilda Solis, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna, and Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs (ALADS) President Robert Pippin, encouraging all parties to make progress on law enforcement contract negotiations ahead of several high-profile international events being hosted in Southern California. Contract negotiations between ALADS and Los Angeles County have been ongoing since 2024, affecting officer recruitment and retention and current capacity to adequately address and prevent crime throughout the county.

Improvements to officer recruitment and retention in the LASD are essential ahead of several large-scale events taking place in Southern California over the next few years, including the NBA All-Star Weekend and FIFA World Cup in 2026, Super Bowl LXI in 2027, and the Summer Olympics and Paralympics in 2028. Currently, about 1,700 LASD deputy positions are vacant, representing about a quarter of the department’s total authorized positions. Finalizing a fair labor contract is critical to provide all parties much much-needed certainty about Los Angeles County’s law enforcement infrastructure and preparedness ahead of large-scale events that will draw millions of visitors to Southern California.

Read the full text of the letter HERE.

“As a U.S. Army Veteran, I have a profound appreciation for the law enforcement officers who answer the call to service, often at great personal risk. Our law enforcement heroes are essential to our public safety,” said Representative Tran. “At the end of the day, this is about keeping Southern California families safe with major international events on the horizon. It is my sincere hope that an agreement is reached between all parties as soon as possible.”

“Southern California’s ability to safely host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, 2028 Summer Olympics, and other major sporting events depends on well-resourced and appropriately trained local law enforcement,” said Representative Kamlager-Dove. “As preparations continue, it is essential that the Association for LA Deputy Sheriffs and LA County reach an agreement that addresses public safety, ensures the department can manage increased tourism, and provides fair compensation for officers while ensuring that other critical county social service needs are also met.”

It has been reported that staffing shortages in the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) have been widespread. LASD officers have been working without a salary contract for the 2025-2028 period for nearly one year—a challenge that has factored significantly in the ability to retain and recruit law enforcement officers.

On January 8, 2026, Representative Tran secured over $1 million for crime prevention efforts in Southern California following the passage of a bipartisan government spending bill through the House. Once signed into law, $1,031,000 will be awarded to the North Orange County Public Safety Collaborative, operated through the Hope Center of Orange County in Fullerton, CA. The federal dollars that Representative Tran fought for will facilitate first response by licensed social workers to non-violent crises, increasing law enforcement officers’ capacity to prevent violent crime and hold offenders accountable.

As a Co-Chair of the Democratic Caucus National Security Task Force and a Member of the House Armed Services Committee, Tran has also signed onto multiple letters expressing support for local public safety efforts, including letters opposing the unjust deployment of federal forces to patrol U.S. cities and advocating for increased resources for state and local law enforcement agencies to perform their duties safely and effectively.

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


Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. Statement on Restoring Tax Credits, Lowering Health Care Costs

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) issued the following statement:

“TODAY I proudly voted YES to extend the ACA Tax Credit for the American people!

“One Democratic-led discharge petition, supported by four Republicans, that literally forced a vote on the House floor. That was followed by a procedural vote backed by 9 Republicans, and then a second procedural vote that passed with 11 Republicans joining us. Momentum built because this issue cuts across party lines.

“This matters deeply in Louisiana and across our country, regardless of party affiliation. These ACA tax credits help Republicans, Democrats, Independents, and families who do not fit neatly into any political box. They are the difference between coverage and going uninsured for working families, small business owners, farmers, fishermen, seniors not yet eligible for Medicare, and people still recovering from hurricanes and economic disruption across Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, Lafourche, and the River Parishes. For tens of thousands of Louisianans, affordable health care is not a talking point. It is survival.

“Moments ago, we voted on and passed a three-year extension of the ACA tax credits, with 17 Republicans joining Democrats to put people over politics and do the right thing for their constituents.

“Now, on to the U.S. Senate. I encourage Louisianans of every party to call your Senators and urge them to support this House-passed, three-year extension of the ACA tax credits.”

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Congressman Valadao Secures Key Funding for Water Projects Throughout the Central Valley

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) voted in support of H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2026. Congressman Valadao, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, secured several key wins for the Central Valley as part of the Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, including $14 million in direct funding for community improvement projects.

“As a member of the House Committee on Appropriations, I was happy to vote for H.R. 6938 and advance the next three full-year funding bills,” said Congressman Valadao. “This package will help bolster our national security efforts, strengthen domestic energy production, and invest in public safety improvements. Importantly, I was proud to have secured key investments—totaling $14 million—for several critical water and infrastructure projects across the Central Valley. From strengthening groundwater recharge and preventing land subsidence to replacing aging wells and water storage infrastructure, these funds will help safeguard our water supply, support our farmers and communities, and ensure continued access to clean water. Passing this funding package brings us one step closer to completing our full-year funding bills, and I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in the House and Senate to continue this important process.”

Key investments secured by Congressman Valadao in the FY26 Interior and Environment Appropriations Act include:

$2 million for the Arvin-Edison Water Storage District’s North Canal Spreading Works Expansion Project to convert approximately 160 acres of farmland into groundwater recharge facilities, strengthening long-term water sustainability for nearly 20,000 residents.

$2 million for the City of Corcoran’s Stormwater Enhancements Project to construct green infrastructure, permeable pavement, and vegetated swales to improve stormwater drainage and enhance water quality.

$2 million for the Shafter-Wasco Groundwater Recharge Project to develop 77 acres of recharge basins which will capture an estimated 1,700 acre-feet of water annually, helping prevent subsidence and improving groundwater reliability in Kern County.

$4 million for the City of Avenal’s Water Storage Tank Project to replace a critical 5-million-gallon water storage tank relied upon for clean drinking water and wastewater treatment.

$2 million for the City of McFarland’s Water Well Project to construct a replacement well and increase drinking water capacity as existing wells near the end of their service life.

$2 million for the Armona Water Supply Reliability Project to design and construct a new community well and connect it to the existing water system to ensure reliable service deliveries and an adequate water supply.

Read the full bill here.


Rep. Gabe Vasquez Votes for Lower Health Care Costs for New Mexicans

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On January 8, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) voted in support of a three-year extension for ACA enhanced premium tax credits (EPTCs) to protect New Mexicans from soaring health care costs. The bill now heads to the Senate.

“I’ve heard directly from doctors, patients, and hospital leaders across my district, and they’ve made it clear we need to extend these tax credits to prevent health care price hikes and keep rural hospitals open for New Mexicans,” said Vasquez. “When MAGA extremists price New Mexicans out of their health coverage, it drives up the price of health care for everyone else, even those on private insurance. I will always stand up against bad policies that make New Mexico poorer and sicker.”

Under current law, the ACA enhanced premium tax credits expired on December 31, 2025. Rep. Vasquez voted in favor of H.R. 1834 today, which would extend the tax credits through December 31, 2028 and back-date coverage to January 1, 2026.

Vasquez has been raising the alarm about the expiring ACA enhanced premium tax credits for months, after hearing concerns about rising health care costs directly from constituents, patients, and health care providers across southern New Mexico. In September, Vasquez hosted a roundtable with patients who benefit from the lifesaving ACA EPTCs, as well as caregivers, health care providers, and health care officials who raised concerns about what the expiration of federal support would mean for access to preventative care, rural hospital closures, and rising mortality rates.

While New Mexico’s state legislature has taken steps to protect New Mexicans who rely on ACA enhanced premium tax credits for this year, health care costs are still rising for many New Mexicans — even those with private and employer-based health care plans. This is because the expiration of ACA EPTCs nationally has led to fewer people being able to afford coverage overall, leading to a reduced payer pool and driving up costs for insurers. Those higher costs are then pushed onto consumers — including in New Mexico — through increased premiums.

Vasquez previously led a letter to Speaker Johnson urging him to reverse his decision to cancel voting days in the House of Representatives ahead of the government shutdown, instead urging members to work together to find a bipartisan solution to keep the government open and prevent health care costs from skyrocketing. He is also a cosponsor of the Protecting Health Care and Lowering Costs Act, which would reverse these devastating health care cuts and permanently extend the ACA EPTCs.

The Congressman remains committed to protecting access to affordable health care and rural hospital services for New Mexico families.

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Vasquez Champions Bipartisan Border Security Bills to Bolster CBP Cargo Screening and Law Enforcement Coordination

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On January 7, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) cosponsored H.R.1294, the BEST Facilitation Act, and H.R.285, the Advanced Border Coordination Act of 2025 — two bipartisan, commonsense solutions to enhance U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) cargo scanning capabilities at points of entry and improve coordination between law enforcement agencies at the southern border.

“Border security works best when it’s smart, targeted, and focused on real threats,” said Vasquez. “I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges law enforcement face at the border, and these bipartisan bills help officers do their jobs more effectively by improving coordination, modernizing scanning technology at our ports of entry, and keeping dangerous drugs and contraband out of our communities — without slowing down legal trade and travel.”

The BEST Facilitation Act focuses on improving security and efficiency at ports of entry by creating specialized “image technician” positions at CBP. By allowing trained technicians to review scans and flag potential threats, the bill would reduce wait times for lawful commerce, better allocate enforcement resources, and enhance CBP’s ability to stop fentanyl, weapons, and other illicit goods from entering the United States. This legislation was introduced with Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ).

The Advanced Border Coordination Act would direct the Department of Homeland Security to establish Joint Operations Centers along the southern border, creating centralized hubs for information sharing, operational coordination, and workforce training among federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement agencies. These centers are designed to strengthen efforts to disrupt drug trafficking, human smuggling, and other criminal activity while improving accountability and collaboration on the ground. This legislation was introduced with Rep. David Joyce (R-OH).

As a representative of 180 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border, Vasquez is championing a new way forward on immigration and border security through the New American Immigration Plan, a framework focused on smarter border security, targeted enforcement, and modern technology that actually works in border communities without compromising on American values.

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Vindman Secures MILLIONS for Law Enforcement in Virginia’s Seventh District

Washington, D.C. — The U.S. House of Representatives today voted to pass more than $2,750,000 for law enforcement and public safety projects in Virginia’s Seventh District that Congressman Eugene Vindman secured as part of a U.S. House-passed Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 appropriations bill.

“As a former prosecutor, I know we need to fund our local police to keep our community safe. That’s why I’m proud to have secured millions of dollars for our local law enforcement,” said Vindman. “This funding that I secured ensures our police have the tools they need to keep everyone safe and serve with professionalism across our district. My team and I worked with law enforcement in Virginia’s Seventh District to secure these funds, and we are grateful for their partnership.”

These investments include:

Modernizing patrol radio systems in Stafford County;

Installing emergency call boxes along Culpeper’s Trail Network;

Upgrading rural communications abilities for the Caroline County Sheriff’s Office; and,

Securing a Unified Mobile Command Center for Madison County first responders.

Vindman worked directly with local officials and community leaders across Virginia to solicit these requests, move these projects forward, and make sure they were included in this federal funding legislation. The FY2026 appropriations package now goes to the U.S. Senate for further consideration.

A summary of funding for law enforcement projects in Virginia’s Seventh District that passed in the U.S. House is below.

STAFFORD

Vindman secured $1,039,000 for the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office to replace 345 mobile radios installed in patrol vehicles. The project will enable faster and clearer communication through the new radios, allowing Stafford County Sheriff personnel to arrive quickly to dispatched locations and better provide support for and protection of life and property. These new mobile radios will bring additional features and new technology that is not available with existing radios, including a third radio frequency band, Long-Term Evolution (LTE) connection, and playback in the field.

TOWN OF CULPEPER

Vindman secured $245,000 for the Town of Culpeper to install Emergency Call Boxes throughout the Culpeper Trail Network. These solar-powered call boxes would provide direct access to emergency services, allowing users to report incidents quickly and receive immediate assistance when needed. The boxes would also be equipped with security camera monitoring capabilities, which would be strategically placed along the Culpeper Trail Network — a series of walking trails throughout the town that connect neighborhoods to downtown.

This project aims to enhance public safety and ensure peace of mind for residents and visitors using Culpeper’s parks and trails by improving response times, deterring criminal activity, and supporting a safe, accessible outdoor environment for all members of the Culpeper community.

CAROLINE

Vindman secured $967,000 for critical equipment and infrastructure upgrades for the Caroline County Sheriff’s Office. This funding will modernize the department’s radio communication system by upgrading to interoperable devices capable of working in rural areas, particularly providing reliable coverage in and around Caroline County school buildings and over school Wi-Fi. The current radios lack this capability, creating gaps in communication during emergencies. This investment addresses a significant officer safety concern while strengthening coordination and improving public safety for the broader community and local schools.

MADISON

Vindman secured $500,000 for the Madison County Sheriff’s Office to purchase and deploy a Unified Mobile Command Center. This vehicle would be used by all Madison County first responders to establish operational command, communications, and coordination between agencies during critical events. It will provide resources supporting the individual needs of law enforcement, emergency medical services, and fire personnel in a collaborative setting — such as search and rescue missions, large event security, and major crime scenes.

BACKGROUND

For FY2026 the U.S. House of Representatives reopened the Community Project Funding process, allowing Members of Congress to request targeted federal investments for local projects. Congressman Vindman worked closely with community leaders across Virginia’s Seventh District to identify and submit requests that reflect the needs of the region.

Community Project Funding is designed to strengthen the federal appropriations process by centering local input and collaboration. Through this process, Members of Congress partner directly with the communities they represent to advance projects that are planned, supported, and led at the local level.

To qualify, projects must be submitted by a locality or non-profit and meet the eligibility requirements of existing federal grant programs. Submissions must demonstrate strong community support, ensuring that funded projects are responsive to local needs and have backing from the communities they serve.

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Education and Workforce Committee Advances Walberg's Legislation to Combat Human Trafficking

Today, the Education and Workforce Committee passed Congressman Tim Walberg's (MI-05) legislation, the Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act, which gives Department of Labor (DOL) staff better tools to spot human trafficking and help stop exploitation.

"The Committee passed my bipartisan bill to address the scourge of human trafficking. The Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act equips DOL staff with the tools and knowledge needed to detect and confront human trafficking and protect vulnerable people, including women and children, from being exploited. In other words, it turns DOL employees into an early warning system against human trafficking. I was proud to introduce this bill with Rep. McBath as Congress works to end the sick crime of human trafficking.”


Statement from Congressman Walkinshaw on Congressman Steny Hoyer’s Retirement Announcement

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11) released the following statement in response to Congressman Steny Hoyer’s (MD-05) retirement announcement.

“Steny Hoyer has been an institution in Congress and one of the most consequential leaders of his generation. During some of the most trying moments in our nation’s history, he was a steady hand and a historic congressional leader, helping to deliver transformative progress, including the passage of the Affordable Care Act. Throughout it all, he remained a fierce defender of public service and of the people who make government work.

He was also a statesman on the international stage, a thoughtful and widely respected leader on international cooperation and national security, and a trusted confidant to United States presidents who relied on his judgment and experience.

Even as he shaped national and global policy, Steny never lost sight of home. He was a passionate advocate for Maryland, showing up every day to serve the needs of his community. He was truly a members’ member, respected across the institution, and he set a standard for how leaders should treat staff and colleagues alike. I saw that commitment firsthand as Congressman Connolly’s Chief of Staff, especially in his unwavering support for federal employees, his leadership on Metro, and his belief in regional cooperation.

Steny Hoyer’s legacy is one of service, integrity, decency, and lasting impact.”

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Walkinshaw Statement on Today’s House Vote to Restore ACA Tax Credits, Lower Costs

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11) released the following statement ahead of today’s House vote to extend the Affordable Care Act premium tax credits for three years.

“Since being sworn in to Congress a few months ago, I’ve been fighting to save the Affordable Care Act premium tax credits to prevent health care costs from soaring for Fairfax families. Today, after months of obstruction, the House will finally vote.

Let’s be clear: Republican leadership, doing Trump’s bidding, let these credits expire on January 1, spiking premiums and exacerbating the affordability crisis. In Virginia’s 11th district, 19,000 people are paying more, and 8,000 are at risk of losing coverage because Republicans let the credits expire.

I’m voting yes to lower health care costs for my constituents.”

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Wasserman Schultz, Gillibrand Lead Congressional Resolution to Honor Victims, Survivors and Courage of Former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords 15 Years After the Tucson Shooting

Washington, D.C. — On the 15th anniversary of the January 8, 2011, shooting in Tucson, Arizona, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) will introduce a bipartisan House–Senate concurrent resolution honoring the six people killed, the survivors whose lives were forever changed, and former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, whose courage and leadership have inspired a national movement to end gun violence and reject political violence. The resolution was cosponsored by more than 200 Members of the House and Senate. The full text is available here.

At 10:10 a.m. on January 8, 2011 – just days after being sworn in for her third term – Giffords was shot during a “Congress On Your Corner” event outside a Safeway grocery store in Tucson. Six people were killed, and thirteen were injured in an act of gun violence that shocked the nation and forever altered the lives of countless families.

“Fifteen years on, I still remember that moment I first heard of the unspeakable act that happened to my dear friend Gabby, and the senseless deaths and injuries of so many others around her. Sadly, political violence has only increased. That’s why we must never forget those who were lost that day, and it’s critical we honor the survivors, and make it clear these horrific acts of aggression have no place in our democracy,” said Wasserman Schultz. “Gabby’s leadership exemplifies perseverance and moral clarity in action. And it’s her grit and resilience that continue to inspire Americans nationwide to promote civility, compassion, and life-saving solutions in our fight to end gun violence. This anniversary is a solemn reminder of profound loss and remarkable bravery. In honoring the victims and survivors, let us also redouble our efforts to reject hatred and political violence and build a safer, more respectful democracy.”

“Fifteen years ago, our nation faced a dark and devastating day when a mass shooting in Tucson wounded thirteen people, including my close friend Gaby Giffords, and took the lives of six others. Those gathered to meet with their elected representative were met with horrific violence. This tragedy reminds us of the urgent need to end the scourge of gun violence in our country,” said Gillibrand. “As we mark this anniversary, we must continue to honor the memories of those lost and stand with the survivors of that day’s events. Their strength and bravery continue to inspire us all to reject violence in all its forms and dedicate ourselves to creating a safer and more just nation.”

“Political violence is cowardly, criminal, and fundamentally un-American. It is an assault not only on individuals, but on the very foundations of our democracy. We saw that fifteen years ago in Tucson, where six innocent lives were senselessly lost and thirteen others were wounded, including my friend Gabby Giffords—whose resilience and leadership in the years since have stood as a powerful counterpoint to hatred. Through this resolution, we reaffirm, as a Congress and as a country, our unequivocal rejection of political violence and hatred in all their forms, and our shared commitment to unity, respect, and compassion,” said Fitzpatrick.

The resolution recognizes the six people who were killed and thirteen others who were injured, including Congresswoman Giffords. Among those killed were Chief Judge John Roll of the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona; Gabriel “Gabe” Zimmerman, a Giffords’ staff member and the first congressional staffer killed while serving; Dorothy “Dot” Morris; Phyllis Schneck; Dorwan Stoddard; and nine-year-old Christina-Taylor Green.

Amidst the escalating political violence and threats directed at public officials, the resolution underscores our obligation to denounce violence, uphold democratic principles, and promote respectful discourse. The resolution reaffirms the dignity of public service and democratic values that unify and uplift all Americans.

Former Congresswoman Giffords, who has dedicated her life since the shooting to preventing gun violence and promoting civility, reflected on the anniversary:

“January 8th changed my life forever—but it did not lessen my belief in this country or in our responsibility to one another,” said Giffords. “We honor those we lost by choosing courage over fear, kindness over hatred, and action over silence. I am grateful to Representative Wasserman Schultz, Representative Fitzpatrick, and Senator Gillibrand for honoring the victims and survivors and for continuing the work to build a safer, more peaceful future for our nation.”

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Wasserman Schultz Secures $1.3 Billion in 2026 Federal Funding in House Bills, Including $461 Million for Everglades Restoration and $11 Million in Community Projects

“I’m so proud to secure $461 million in Everglades funding to continue this critical project to restore and protect our River of Grass. Since coming to Congress, I’ve proudly worked with my colleagues from Florida to secure record funds for this South Florida treasure, which protects drinking water for millions of families and businesses. It’s work that my Everglades Caucus Co-Chair Mario Diaz-Balart and fellow Appropriator Lois Frankel take tremendous pride in,” said Wasserman Schultz. “This year I was also able to request and secure $1.29 billion in vital funds and community projects that will benefit all of South Florida, from cutting-edge medical research, local water projects and algal bloom eradication, to keeping children safe from internet predators and helping homes remain weather resilient.”

Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) secured $1.29 billion in federal funding in H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act of 2026. This includes $461 million for Everglades restoration and preservation secured by Wasserman Schultz. The combined bills now move to the Senate.

“I’m so proud to secure $461 million in Everglades funding to continue this critical project to restore and protect our River of Grass. Since coming to Congress, I’ve proudly worked with my colleagues from Florida to secure record funds for this South Florida treasure, which protects drinking water for millions of families and businesses. It’s work that my Everglades Caucus Co-Chair Mario Diaz-Balart and fellow Appropriator Lois Frankel take tremendous pride in,” said Wasserman Schultz. “This year I was also able to request and secure $1.29 billion in vital funds and community projects that will benefit all of South Florida, from cutting-edge medical research, local water projects and algal bloom eradication, to keeping children safe from internet predators and helping homes remain weather resilient.”

During the Biden Administration, Wasserman Schultz secured record investment in the Everglades. Today’s House funding victory is another historic step to continue this long-standing bipartisan spending and policy priority.

“Nearly a third of Floridians rely on the Everglades for clean drinking water, which is why I will never give up the fight to fund its restoration and protection, and will never let it become a site for oil drilling,” said Wasserman Schultz.

In the House Energy & Water Appropriations Bill, Wasserman Schultz helped secure:

$461M for Everglades Restoration through the U.S. Army Corps Construction Account;

$12.7M for South Florida Ecosystem Restoration under the Corps’ Operation & Maintenance Account;

$18.5M Central & Southern Florida under the Corps’ Operation & Maintenance Account;

$8.5M for Harmful Algal Blooms;

$14M for Coastal Ocean Data Systems at the Army Corps of Engineers; and

$369M for weatherization funds at the Department of Energy.

In the House Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations Bill, Wasserman Schultz helped secure:

$33.5M for National Ocean Service’s Coral Reef Program;

$80M for National Sea Grant College Program at the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research;

$56M for the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) support disaster response, weather forecasting and hurricane prediction, forecasting of freshwater and marine water quality, detection of harmful algal blooms (HABs), and safe maritime operations; and

$105M for Missing and Exploited Children programs including Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force grants, missing and exploited children activities.

In the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Bill, Wasserman Schultz helped secure:

$2M for coral reef monitoring;

$2M for Holocaust education;

$28M for USGS Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Units; and

$91M for the USGS National Geospatial Program, which provides vital data for disaster response, infrastructure planning, flood risk mapping, and water resource management across the country.

Wasserman Schultz also secured $11 million in vital Community Project Funding across all the bills passed in the House today, including:

$1.09 million for a City of Sunrise Southwest Wastewater Treatment Plant.

$535,000 for Broward County Sheriff’s Office ICAC Technology Support Project to track down and prosecute internet child predators.

$1.031 million for Florida Atlantic University’s NeuroInnovate Center, for research Alzheimer’s, brain cancers, addiction, and chronic disease research.

$3.1 million to Florida International University to advance precision medicine and imaging studies for hard-to-treat cancers.

$1.09 million to aid Hallandale Beach’s NE 7th Street water main project.

$1.09 million to aid a City of Hollywood Boulevard Heights sewer project, from Johnson Street to Fillmore Street from N. 70th Way to N. 72nd Avenue.

$1 million to the City of Dania Beach for wastewater improvements.

$1.09 million to Cooper City for a wastewater treatment headworks facility.

$1.03 million for Nova Southeastern University’s work on drug delivery for brain cancer treatment.

Wasserman Schultz is Ranking Member of the Appropriations Committee Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Subcommittee, the Dean of the Florida Democratic Delegation, and Co-Chair of the House Democratic Steering & Policy Committee.

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Wasserman Schultz Votes to Reduce Healthcare Costs, Pass Critical Affordable Care Act Tax Credit Extension

Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) voted to pass a three-year extension of Affordable Care Act tax credits that will help millions of families avoid lost coverage and soaring premium increases. The enhanced premium tax credits extension was only possible because Democrats forced a floor vote on it through a discharge petition signed by all House Democrats and four Republicans. The measure now goes to the U.S. Senate.

“Republicans have made life too expensive. From burger and coffee prices, to rent, home insurance and utilities, costs keep soaring,” Wasserman Schultz said during debate on the House floor. “We can’t add to cost burdens by forcing families to pick between seeing a doctor or buying groceries.”

Watch her full remarks here. The tax credit extension passed in a 230 to 196 vote.

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Rep. Watson Coleman Statement on Kidnapping of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro

Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) addressed the Trump Administration’s kidnapping of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and plans to “run” the sovereign nation in the aftermath:

The actions of the Trump Administration in Venezuela this week are a danger to American interests, the safety of the Venezuelan people, and our own democracy.

For months, Democrats have been warning of the danger posed by our weak Speaker of the House. Recently, even some Republicans have complained, both publicly and privately, that Mike Johnson’s role as a rubber-stamp Speaker, taking marching orders from the White House, puts the Country at risk.

Now we’re seeing the consequences of a Congress that has neglected its duties. The President has engaged in an illegal military assault against another nation, kidnapped its leader, and announced that the U.S. will be running said country.

These are not the actions of a global leader. They are not the actions of a leader of sound mind. They undermine the very notion of sovereignty developed over hundreds of years and establish a might-is-right world order that risks peace everywhere.

The kidnapping of a foreign leader under the cover of darkness is without precedent in a democratic society. The President made no effort to justify his actions. His excuses, and those of his cabinet, have been contradictory at best and downright ludicrous at worst. The President’s recent comments stating that he personally will be controlling the money from oil taken from Venezuela lays bare the criminal nature of his actions.

The President does not have a clear long-term strategy to deal with the fallout from these actions as if nothing was learned from our invasion of Iraq. Removing a despot without considering the power vacuum that creates ensures political chaos and strife for innocent Venezuelans.

This illegal action threatens the tenuous stability of Latin America, the safety of Venezuelans and people living in neighboring countries and will necessitate the continued use of the U.S. military, putting our servicemembers in danger. The President has since admitted his actions were taken with the consultation not of Congress or our allies, but with oil executives.

Donald Trump lied to the American people. He lied to Congress. And he has exposed himself as a lackey for corporate America. It is a shameful time for our nation, and that shame falls directly at the feet of Donald Trump and his enablers in Congress.

Congress must reassert its constitutional authority and immediately begin an investigation into the planning and execution of this action. I call on all my colleagues with even a modicum of self-respect to join this effort and reestablish oversight over an out-of-control executive.

Donald Trump and this Administration and this Congress should be dealing with the cost of living that has escalated in our country and negatively impacts what our people are able to eat, to buy and their shelter. We should be concerned about the fact that we are not pursing health care so that everyone has access to a healthy living in this country. Those should be our priorities, and those are the things that I’m going to continue to fight for.

Additionally, you can watch a video address from the Congresswoman here.


Rep. Watson Coleman Votes to Pass Fiscal Year 2026 Minibus

Bill includes funding covered by Commerce, Justice, and Science; Energy and Water; and Interior and Environment subcommittees.

Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), New Jersey’s sole member of the Appropriations Committee, voted for the FY26 Minibus covering Commerce, Justice, and Science (CJS); Energy and Water; and Interior and Environment subcommittees.

The Minibus includes funding increases to Violence Against Women Act grants, strong funding for scientific and technological research, and increases to the Legal Services Corporation (LSC) - a signature priority of the Congresswoman’s work in the Appropriations Committee.

“Of course this funding bill does not include everything I would have liked to see but it is a vast improvement over where we were last year,” said Watson Coleman. “It also takes us out of the destructive cycle of continuing resolutions, places guardrails on the Administration’s spending, and reasserts Congress’s obligation to fund the government through regular order.”

The minibus also includes funding for 4 important projects in the 12th District:


On Anniversary of the Southern California Fires, Rep. George Whitesides Demands Federal Action on Wildfire Recovery

“One year after wildfires devastated Southern California, our communities are still rebuilding, and families have yet to return home,” said Rep. George Whitesides. “The federal government must step up, as it has done time and time again in the event of natural disasters, to provide the long-overdue aid needed to fully recover. It is thanks to the brave firefighters and first responders that we were able to prevent further destruction in our district and across the region, but wildfires are not going away. As we mark one year since this tragedy, we need to recommit to passing real reforms that address this crisis and keep our communities safe.”


Baldwin Votes to Prevent War in Venezuela, Rein in Trump

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) released the following statement after five Senate Republicans joined all Democrats to advance a Baldwin-backed measure to prevent an all-out war in Venezuela and rein in President Trump’s ability to conduct further military action in Venezuela without sign-off from Congress. This resolution comes after months of the Trump administration unilaterally carrying out illegal strikes in the Caribbean and Pacific, an unauthorized military attack on Venezuela, and the President openly speaking about sending U.S. troops to Venezuela to “run” the country.

“Today, Democrats and Republicans came together to send a clear message to President Trump: you can’t launch our country into a war without sign-off from the American people and Congress. The American people have made clear that they want President Trump to focus on lowering their costs, not starting another forever war to enrich his big oil buddies. This President is focused on all sorts of distractions– whether it’s running Venezuela, taking over Greenland, or building his new ballroom – but he seems to have forgotten about Wisconsin families and their needs,” said Senator Baldwin. “Today, I voted to stand up for these Wisconsin families and to restore basic checks and balances on an increasingly lawless President before Americans pay the price for another war over foreign oil.”

On Wednesday, Senator Baldwin delivered remarks on the Senate Floor condemning President Donald Trump’s ongoing unauthorized military conflict in Venezuela. Senator Baldwin also co-sponsors the Prohibiting Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act of 2025, which would prohibit the use of federal funds for any use of military force in or against Venezuela without explicit Congressional authorization. Both this legislation and the War Powers Resolution do not prevent the United States from acting to defend itself or its citizens from an armed attack or threat of an imminent armed attack, pursue lawful counternarcotics operations, or provide humanitarian assistance to the Venezuelan people.

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Banks Opposes Advancing War Powers Resolution, Stands with President Trump

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today,Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after he voted against advancing Senator Tim Kaine’s (D-Va.) War Powers Resolution.

The resolution advanced in the Senate with a 52-47 vote count.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “President Trump went after narco-terrorist Nicolás Maduro and America is safer as a result. I won’t vote to tie the President’s hands. I fully support his efforts to protect America’s interests in the Western Hemisphere and keep Communist China out of our backyard.”

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Sen. Banks Introduces the No Funding for Foreign Agents Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today,Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.), introduced the No Funding for Foreign Agents Act. This bill works to ensure American taxpayer dollars don’t end up in the hands of foreign agents who work against American interests.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “The Somali fraud scandal has revealed how broken the system is. Foreign officials were able to take advantage of American taxpayers. This bill stops it and puts Americans first.”

Read the full text here.

Read more about the bill here.

Key Provisions of the No Funding for Foreign Agents Act:

Prohibits entities that are owned or controlled by agents of any nation covered by President Trump’s travel ban or any embargoed nation from accessing government grants, contracts, or financial assistance.

Applies to any person who represents a hostile and unreliable government, as well as diplomats, lobbyists, and other agents of those governments.

Background:

Multiple high-ranking officials in the Somali government have reportedly run or owned taxpayer-funded businesses and organizations in the United States. The President of the U.N. Security Council, Abukar Osman—who represents Somalia at the U.N.—ran a home health agency in Ohio that was convicted of Medicaid fraud. Somali Foreign Affairs Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali founded multiple companies in Ohio, including a health center that received COVID-era small business loans. Jibril Mohamed, policy advisor to the Somali Foreign Affairs Ministry, also owned a home health agency in Ohio that received COVID-era loans. Funds meant for American businesses should not go to officers of unreliable or hostile governments.

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The Working Families Tax Cuts Will Ensure a Future of Prosperity

“This year, Americans are going to see even more money in their pockets. That’s thanks to the Working Families Tax Cuts law. The average American taxpayer will see a tax cut this year of $3,500. That’s a direct effect of the law. Families in every single state are already feeling relief. Key parts of the new tax cuts went into effect on January 1. These will make life more affordable for American families.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Senate Majority Whip, today spoke on the Senate Floor to tout how the Working Families Tax Cuts Act will make America more prosperous, affordable, and successful.

Click HERE to watch Senator Barrasso’s remarks.

Sen. Barrasso’s remarks as prepared:

“Republicans ran to make our country safer and more prosperous. After one year, the Republican comprehensive economic agenda is paying off. This year, Americans are going to see even more money in their pockets. That’s thanks to the Working Families Tax Cuts law. The average American taxpayer will see a tax cut this year of $3,500. That’s a direct effect of the law. Families in every single state are already feeling relief. Key parts of the new tax cuts went into effect on January 1. These will make life more affordable for American families.

“Republicans increased the Child Tax Credit to $2,200 per child per year – permanent. That means a couple in Cody, Wyoming, with two kids will get $4,400 a year. That’s money to help buy groceries, for education, and for their children’s activities. Republicans also raised the limit in the Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account to $7,500. A working mother in Casper, Wyoming, can now set aside $7,500 pre-tax for childcare. Senator Katie Britt of Alabama championed this provision.

“Additionally, Republicans did something no Congress has ever done before. We created a guaranteed savings account for America’s children. Every child born between 2025 and 2028 receives a $1,000 investment account. A child born in Sheridan, Wyoming, will now start life with $1,000 already invested in their future. Senator Cruz led this innovative idea.

“Additionally, the Working Families Tax Cuts law protects family farmers, ranchers, and small business owners. This is vital for my home state of Wyoming and for other rural states.

“For years, farmers and ranchers told me the same thing. The Death Tax makes it nearly impossible to pass their family operations on to the next generation. Republicans delivered permanent Death Tax relief for family farmers, ranchers, and small business owners. Now, ranchers in Wheatland, in Worland, in Torrington, and in Gillette, Wyoming, can pass down their land and their livelihood without facing crushing Death Taxes from Washington.

“Every Democrat in the Senate voted against this bill. Every single one. If Democrats had their way, taxes would be going up this year by $4 trillion. Democrats supported the largest tax increase in American history. When Republicans proposed legislation to crack down on waste, fraud, abuse, and corruption in Medicaid, in Food Stamps, in government social programs every Democrat in the Senate voted no.

“That brings me to Minnesota. Yesterday, Congress exposed worrying new information about the vast extent of the massive fraud and corruption in Minnesota. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison – who was Deputy Chair of the Democratic National Committee – are presiding over one of the most outrageous fraud scandals in recent memory. Manipulative criminals have stolen billions of dollars from federal programs – billions meant to help vulnerable Americans. Republicans voted to put more money in people’s pockets. Democrats voted to raise taxes – and voted to protect the kind of fraud we’re seeing in Minnesota.

“The Working Families Tax Cuts are part of a broader economic agenda that is already working. The numbers prove it. Today, the world’s most successful companies are investing nearly $10 trillion in America. Record investment is driving private-sector job growth, innovation, and opportunity. The economy grew 4.3 percent in the third quarter. That’s the strongest economic growth in two years. Core inflation cooled in November to 2.6 percent. Gasoline is now less than $3 per gallon in most of the country. It was $1.91 in Casper, Wyoming, when I was there on Monday. Forecasters predict prices are going to continue to fall. Real wages are on track to grow by over $1,000 this year.

“All of these successes happened because Republicans are committed to American prosperity. We cut taxes. We eliminated wasteful Washington spending. We rolled back burdensome regulations. We unleashed American energy.

“This is a 180-degree turnaround from the past four years. Under Joe Biden and the Democrats, prices rose by over 20 percent in four years. Democrats will go down in history as the Party of High Prices, High Taxes, and Open Borders.

“As Americans celebrate the 250th Anniversary of our nation, we can be confident that our country is safer, stronger, and more prosperous. With the Working Families Tax Cuts, Republicans are making sure that prosperity continues into the future.”


Bennet Statement on House’s Failed Veto Override Vote

Washington, D.C. — Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released the following statement after the House failed to override President Trump’s veto of the Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit Act:

“With their vote to uphold President Trump’s veto of the Finish the AVC Act, House Republicans abandoned rural Colorado and denied tens of thousands of Coloradans affordable clean drinking water. Today’s vote is an outrageous abdication of duty. They have willingly surrendered their legislative responsibility, forfeiting their obligation to represent the best interests of the people they serve.

“By allowing this veto to stand, Congress has set a dangerous precedent. It means that non-controversial, bipartisan bills that pass without objection can be rejected for reasons wholly unrelated to their substance, and weaponized politically.

“Make no mistake, this was part of the President’s vindictive war on Colorado because he is frustrated with our state for not bending the knee.

“Today marks another grim day for the future of our democracy.”

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Bennet Statement on Vote to Advance Venezuela War Powers Resolution

Washington, D.C. — Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, released the following statement after the Senate voted to advance S.J.Res.98, Sen. Tim Kaine (D-V.A.)’s War Powers Resolution that Bennet co-sponsored to block the use of the U.S. military to engage in hostilities within or against Venezuela:

“Nicolás Maduro was an illegitimate, brutal dictator who lost, and then stole, Venezuela’s 2024 elections. Yet even with Maduro now in U.S. custody, President Trump continues to say the United States should ‘run’ Venezuela to exploit the country’s oil for our economic purposes.

“This is not a legitimate justification for keeping 15,000 U.S. troops and dozens of U.S. military assets off Venezuela’s coast. It is certainly not a legitimate justification for putting U.S. boots on ground in Venezuela.

“Despite President Trump’s promises not to start any new wars, he has authorized military action against seven countries over the last year, blown up alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and Pacific, and deployed federal troops in at least ten cities – all without Congress’s authorization. Congress must reassert our Constitutional authority to stop the President’s lawlessness.

“This is why I joined Senator Kaine and our colleagues to force today’s vote on a War Powers Resolution to prevent President Trump from plunging us into a pointless war with Venezuela with no clear exit strategy and against the wishes of most Americans.

“I am glad to see the Senate advance this measure on a bipartisan basis. We must pass it as soon as possible and take additional steps to rein in President Trump’s reckless and unauthorized adventurism.”

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ICYMI: Bennet, Hickenlooper Slam Trump’s Veto of Their Bipartisan Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit Act

Senators: “With one stroke of a pen, [Trump] denied clean drinking water to 50,000 Americans in rural southeast Colorado.”

House will take up vote today to override Trump’s veto of Bennet and Hickenlooper’s bipartisan Arkansas Valley Conduit legislation

Washington, D.C. — Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper penned an op-ed today in MS NOW detailing how critical the Arkansas Valley Conduit is for Southeastern Colorado and calling on Congress to overturn President Trump’s veto on their bipartisan, unanimously passed legislation to lower costs on the construction and complete the project.

“In the first veto of his second term, President Donald Trump chose to halt a bipartisan 130-mile water infrastructure project 60 years in the making,” wrote Bennet and Hickenlooper in the op-ed. “When a president puts political vendettas ahead of clean water for schools, hospitals and ranchers, he isn’t ‘shaking up’ Washington. He is undermining the people he swore to serve. And it’s working people and rural communities that pay the price.”

The senators continued: “If members of either party actually want to deliver for their constituents, then the path forward is clear. Congress must stand up to this intimidation, honor the promise made 60 years ago and override this veto.”

Last Tuesday, President Trump vetoed Bennet and Hickenlooper’s bipartisan Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit Act, which passed the Senate and House of Representatives unanimously. The House is scheduled to take up a vote to override President Trump’s veto today.

The Arkansas Valley Conduit is the final component of the Fryingpan-Arkansas Project, a water diversion and storage project in the lower Arkansas Valley, which Congress approved in 1962. Once constructed, the conduit will deliver clean drinking water from the Pueblo Reservoir to more than 50,000 families, producers, and municipalities throughout 39 communities in the Lower Arkansas River Valley.

Read more in MS NOW or below:

In the first veto of his second term, President Donald Trump chose to halt a bipartisan 130-mile water infrastructure project 60 years in the making. With one stroke of a pen, he denied clean drinking water to 50,000 Americans in rural southeast Colorado.

This decision defies logic but fits a troubling pattern. While the administration focuses its energy on international brinkmanship and personal grievances, the basic needs of American families are treated like an afterthought, even as costs for working people continue to soar.

Trump’s focus changes by the hour, but the consequences for Americans across the country are permanent. What Congress must do next is clear.

The Arkansas Valley Conduit is much more than a project defined by Trump’s veto — it’s a lifeline. Without it, southeastern Coloradans must continue to rely on contaminated, carcinogenic groundwater. Authorized by Congress in 1962, the Fryingpan-Arkansas Project was designed to deliver water from the Pueblo Reservoir to 39 communities along the Arkansas River Valley. That year, President John F. Kennedy stood in Pueblo and promised that the federal government would see it through.

For the next six decades, Colorado leaders from both parties fought to keep that promise. We are in the final stages of the project, and keeping the conduit affordable is a critical remaining piece.

Through our historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, signed into law in November 2021, we secured more than $500 million for the project and broke ground on the conduit in 2023. We partnered with Rep. Lauren Boebert to introduce the Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit Act in January 2025 to keep construction on track. The act also reduced costs by lowering the interest rate and established flexible repayment terms for the communities in Colorado footing the costs of construction.

The bill would have no measurable increase in federal spending and passed the Senate and the House of Representatives with the support of every single member of Congress. In a Washington defined by division, Republicans and Democrats alike agreed that this was the right thing to do — everyone except the president.

It’s baffling why anyone would veto a unanimous, bipartisan rural water project. It’s even more baffling when you consider who is being hurt. The people of Colorado’s Eastern Plains overwhelmingly supported this president at the polls and took him at his word when he campaigned on lowering costs and making life better for the often-forgotten parts of America.

The completion of the Arkansas Valley Conduit would mean water for rural schools in communities such as Lamar, which are teaching the next generation. It would mean water for hospitals in towns such as La Junta, which are keeping Coloradans healthy.

Instead, Trump has left these communities out to dry — communities that have been waiting for safe drinking water for 60 years.

Sadly, this veto is part of a broader campaign of attacks against our state.

Over the past month, Trump has denied Colorado critical disaster relief after wildfires and flooding. His administration abruptly announced the dismantling of the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, without any plan to continue its life-saving scientific work. His administration canceled hundreds of millions of dollars in transportation and child care grants for our state.

When a president puts political vendettas ahead of clean water for schools, hospitals and ranchers, he isn’t “shaking up” Washington. He is undermining the people he swore to serve. And it’s working people and rural communities that pay the price.

Unfortunately, this is par for the course with this president. Time and again, he has made critical announcements and, before the public can digest them, he’s already moved on to his next reckless action. This pattern leaves everyday Americans to pick up the pieces.

His administration’s tactics are designed to overwhelm us and make us resigned to the consequences. But projects like the Arkansas Valley Conduit are too important to fall victim to Trump’s strategic chaos.

It’s southeast Colorado today, but if we allow basic infrastructure projects to be used as a political weapon, it could be your community tomorrow.

The House of Representatives is scheduled to take up a vote Thursday to override Trump’s veto. If members of either party actually want to deliver for their constituents, then the path forward is clear. Congress must stand up to this intimidation, honor the promise made 60 years ago and override this veto.

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Blackburn Leads Colleagues in Introducing Bicameral Legislation to Deport and Denaturalize Fraudsters Following Minnesota Somali Schemes

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), and Ted Budd (R-N.C.) introduced the Fraud Accountability Act, which would explicitly add fraud as a deportable offense under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The bill would also make clear that any person who commits a deportable offense, now explicitly including fraud, would be subject to denaturalization.

“Anyone who comes to the United States and steals from American taxpayers by committing fraud should be deported,” said Senator Blackburn. “The fraud schemes we have seen in Minnesota and across the country are a betrayal of hardworking American taxpayers, and individuals like the Somali scammers in Minnesota should be subject to both deportation and denaturalization for these crimes. The Fraud Accountability Act would hold these criminals accountable for robbing American taxpayers.”

“The rampant and unprecedented fraud uncovered in Minnesota involving Somali-run childcare centers and nonprofits is unconscionable, and Governor Walz’s complete deflection of any responsibility for this massive theft of U.S. taxpayer dollars under his watch is cowardly but unsurprising,” said Senator Cornyn. “Anyone who attempts to get rich at the expense of American taxpayers should be ashamed and held accountable to the fullest extent of the law, and I’m proud to introduce this bill with Senator Blackburn to ensure any illegal alien who is convicted of fraud faces swift deportation for their flagrant abuse of taxpayer funds.”

“It’s completely unacceptable to waste Arkansas taxpayer dollars on fraudulent government programs,” said Senator Cotton. “Any alien who commits fraud against American taxpayers should be deported immediately.”

“North Carolina taxpayers shouldn’t be forced to foot the bill for blatant fraud schemes across the country,” said Senator Budd. “If government programs using taxpayer dollars are not run responsibly, we must ensure those who steal taxpayer dollars are held accountable.”


Connecticut Delegation Announces $6.8 Million for Traffic & Road Safety Improvements

[Hartford, CT] – Today, the Connecticut congressional delegation announced more than $6.8 million in federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for eight Connecticut traffic and road safety projects.

The funds are awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program established to prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries.

“This $6.8 million in federal funding will prevent roadway fatalities and implement much needed traffic safety measures across our state. More than 250 people died on Connecticut roads last year — a preventable and all too common tragedy. These funds will help towns and cities make serious safety upgrades that will ultimately save lives,” the delegation said.

The funding will support the following regional and local projects:

$280,000 to Northwest Hills COG (NHCOG) for the NHCOG Transportation Safety Action Plan

$100,000 for the Town of Redding Comprehensive Safety Action Plan

$280,000 to the Town of Stonington for the Comprehensive Action Plan to Improve Road Safety

$280,000 to the Town of Wilton for the Town of Wilton SS4A Planning and Demonstration Grant

$2.3 million to Capitol Region COG for the Connecticut Capitol Region Prehospital Transfusion Demonstration Project

$300,000 to the Town of Fairfield for the Town of Fairfield SS4A Demonstration Project

$895,200 to the Town of Westport for Planning and Demonstration Activities in Town of Westport

$2.4 million to the Town of Suffield to Develop a Comprehensive Action Plan for Town of Suffield

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ICYMI: U.S. Senator Katie Britt Joins National Report on Newsmax

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) joined Newsmax’s National Report today to discuss yesterday’s news in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and the dangerous rhetoric against law enforcement officers coming from the Left that led us to this tragic moment.

On the violent anti-law enforcement rhetoric disseminated by the Left, resulting in increased attacks on officers:

“Well, first and foremost, this is a tragic situation. As you said yourself, any loss of life is something that we all mourn. When we look at where we are and how we got here, the Left has to assume responsibility for creating an environment that should have never existed. And this doesn’t go back just a few months, Shaun, this goes back years. Their actual rhetoric about law enforcement officers and what they do in our community has been toxic and it is a seed that has been sowing and growing for some time…

“And what we’ve seen because of the rhetoric of people like Tim Walz is … an increase of 1,300% in actual assaults on ICE officers… an 8,000% increase on death threats to ICE officers … We need to make sure that the people of our country know that our law enforcement officers are there to keep them safe … We saw what happened yesterday, which was just tragic all the way around. And I think the Left has got to stop. We’ve got to be more responsible, and you have to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the people who are here to keep us safe.”

On the President’s commitment to protecting our nation’s law enforcement officers and American citizens:

“… I was in the Oval Office when the President saw this video. I watched him watch this … Look, there will be a full investigation of this. We will get the answers that we need … Let’s make sure that we are talking about our law enforcement officers being there to keep us safe. Let’s not incite other people to behave like this and put people in harm’s way, both our officers and American citizens … Look, the president has made it very clear he is going to secure our border. He is going to do everything he can to keep America safe.”

You can watch the full segment here.

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ICYMI: Cassidy Pens Op-Ed on Strengthening Louisiana’s Coast, Supporting Fishermen, Offshore Workers

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) penned an op-ed in Houma Today outlining his work in 2025 to improve life in South Louisiana by delivering billions of dollars for coastal mitigation projects and protecting Louisiana’s shrimpers and fishermen against the dumping of cheap, foreign shrimp into U.S. markets.

“Before the sun even rises, people are hard at work every day in South Louisiana—from the energy worker in Houma checking equipment and reviewing safety logs to the shrimper pushing off from the docks,” said Dr. Cassidy.

“My job is to keep that rhythm alive by supporting Louisiana fishermen and offshore energy workers—making life better for the men and women who rise before dawn to keep our state prosperous. That is my goal, and that is President Trump’s goal,” continued Dr. Cassidy.

Read the full op-ed here or excerpts below:

2025 in Review: Strengthening Our Coast and Supporting Louisiana Workers

…

In President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts bill, we expanded offshore lease sales for the next 15 years. Through GOMESA—a law which shares federal oil and gas revenues from the Gulf of America with Alabama, Mississippi, and Texas, as well as Louisiana—I worked to make sure our state got more than our fair share. Because of that work and President Trump’s partnership, Louisiana will now receive an extra $46 million per year for coastal restoration. You can’t fish or produce energy without a healthy coast—something families from Lafourche to Vermilion Parish understand firsthand.

I’ve spoken to energy workers in Louisiana. In May, President Trump invited me to join him at the White House as he discussed the incredible investments pouring into America that will benefit Louisiana, energy independence, and the families and workers who power this country.

…

The Bayou’s strong workforce is doing an incredible job. I’ve met with many of them—folks from SLEMCO—who get the lights back on quickly after the power goes out. Hard work like theirs gives families another reason to come to Louisiana and stay. As you are doing everything you can to make our state better—and you are succeeding—I am working every day to make life in Louisiana better. You should have money left over after the bills are paid, safe roads to drive on, and confidence your job is supported.

Louisiana is a great success story, and you are at the heart of it. Let’s keep the Gulf open, the jobs coming, and our communities protected for generations to come.

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Senator Collins’ Statement on Venezuela War Powers Resolution

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued the following statement prior to her vote on the Venezuela War Powers Resolution offered by Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia:

“Nicolas Maduro is a narco-terrorist and international drug trafficker whose actions led to the addiction and deaths of many Americans. He was an illegitimate dictator who held power through stolen elections and horrific violence against the people of Venezuela. The Biden Administration imposed a $25 million bounty for his arrest and extradition to the United States. He was indicted twice in federal court and should stand trial in the United States.

“With Maduro rightfully captured, the circumstances have now changed. While I support the operation to seize Nicolas Maduro, which was extraordinary in its precision and complexity, I do not support committing additional U.S. forces or entering into any long-term military involvement in Venezuela or Greenland without specific congressional authorization.

“The resolution I have supported today does not include any language related to the removal operation. Rather, it reaffirms Congress’s ability to authorize or limit any future sustained military activity in Venezuela, while preserving the President’s inherent Article II authority to defend the United States from an armed attack or imminent threat. I believe invoking the War Powers Act at this moment is necessary, given the President’s comments about the possibility of ‘boots on the ground’ and a sustained engagement ‘running’ Venezuela, with which I do not agree.

“What happens now matters greatly — both in terms of accountability for Maduro and the future of the Venezuelan people. The long-term success of this operation will depend on Venezuelans having the opportunity to run Venezuela, with the support of international and private sector partners.”

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Cornyn Announces More Than $66M in Federal Funds Returned to Constituents in 2025

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today announced that $66,304,000 in federal funds, including U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs benefits, payment assistance to active duty military and military retirees, Internal Revenue Service tax refunds, Social Security checks, Federal Emergency Management Agency assistance, and more, were returned to Texas constituents in 2025 due to the efforts of his Constituent Services team. This stems from some of the more than 7,800 requests for assistance the Senator received last year from constituents throughout Texas.

“One of the most important ways my staff and I serve Texans is through providing assistance to those experiencing challenges with federal agencies,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I am proud to announce that in 2025, my office returned more than $66 million back to Texans thanks to the hard work of my exceptional constituent services team, who work to help resolve issues constituents are facing with the federal government.”


Cornyn Praises White House Announcement of New Assistant Attorney General for Fraud

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement praising the Trump administration’s announcement of a new Assistant Attorney General for Fraud to address the rampant misuse of taxpayer dollars across the country, including the massive fraud epidemic that has taken root in Minnesota under Governor Tim Walz:

“Since day one of his administration, President Trump has worked tirelessly to eliminate the waste, fraud, and abuse that has infiltrated all facets of our government, and today’s announcement is the latest example of him delivering on this campaign promise for the American people and putting fraudsters on notice.

“As a founding member of the Senate DOGE Caucus, I have been proud to work alongside President Trump in this effort, but as we are seeing play out in Minnesota, there is much more to be done at the state level to ensure taxpayer dollars aren’t being used to fund radical, woke, and even terrorist-supporting agendas.

“With this new Assistant Attorney General for Fraud at the helm, Republicans will take the fight against fraud to each and every state, and I commend Governor Abbott for being proactive in this effort by directing state agencies to investigate any potential misuse of Texas taxpayer dollars.”


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353

January 8, 2026

Cotton Introduces Bill to Lower Energy Costs for Arkansans

Washington, DC — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) yesterday introduced legislation to accelerate American energy innovation while also lowering energy costs for Arkansans. The DATA Act of 2026 will eliminate outdated federal regulations and enable manufacturers, data centers, and other energy-intensive industries to build customized electricity systems without impacting existing power grids.

“American dominance in artificial intelligence and other crucial emerging industries should not come at the expense of Arkansans paying higher energy costs. My bill will ensure that America can continue to lead in these spaces by eliminating outdated regulations,” said Senator Cotton.

Text of the bill can be found here.

The DATA Act of 2026 would:

Accelerate energy innovation, boost U.S. competitiveness, and support economic growth through off grid power solutions.

Exempt new, physically isolated off grid electricity providers and certain consumer regulated utilities from outdated federal regulations not designed for on site, self-contained power systems.

Enable manufacturers, data centers, and other energy intensive industries to build reliable, resilient, customized electricity systems without impacting existing grids or ratepayers.

Limit eligibility to systems fully isolated from the bulk power grid to preserve grid reliability and public safety.

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Americans Win with the Working Families Tax Cuts

Washington, D.C.--Thanks to the historic Working Families Tax Cuts legislation largely driven by U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Americans are starting 2026 with lower taxes, higher wages and new pro-growth policies. This week, the U.S. Department of Treasury unveiled a new platform to show how those reforms are making a difference to individuals, families and businesses throughout the country.

“Thanks to President Trump and congressional Republicans, instead of being hit with a massive tax hike on January 1st, Americans began the new year looking forward to bigger paychecks and more opportunities to get ahead,” said Crapo. “The Working Families Tax Cuts Act will benefit middle-class Americans for years to come, and its permanent pro-growth policies are helping small businesses hire, invest and innovate. As Americans begin to see the effects of the legislation in their own budgets, the Treasury Department’s new website will be a useful tool for understanding how it is also benefitting the wider economy.”

According to the U.S. Department of Treasury, the Working Families Tax Cuts will result in:

$3,750 average tax cut per filer

$100 billion in total tax refunds in 2026 for American families

$7,200 in higher wages per American worker

7.2 million American jobs protected and created

Click HERE to learn more about the Finance Committee provisions in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act.

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Daines, Sheehy, Zinke, Downing Urge U.S. Air Force to Address Delayed Aircraft Delivery to Montana Air National Guard

U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy, as well as Congressmen Ryan Zinke (MT-01) and Troy Downing (MT-02) today sent a letter to U.S. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink expressing concern about continued delivery delays in C-130J aircraft to the Montana Air National Guard.

“We write to you today to express our concern regarding continued delays in C-130J aircraft deliveries to the Montana Air National Guard and to emphasize the importance of timely receipt. The Montana Air National Guard 120th Airlift Wing currently operates a fleet of 8 C-130Hs, all of which are scheduled to be replaced with the upgraded and improved C-130J model. That critical upgrade will allow the Wing to better respond to national defense operations, natural disasters, conduct more efficient airlift operations, and carry out their wildfire and rescue missions…

… We request that you provide answers to the following questions:

What, specifically, has caused these delivery delays?

What remedies can be pursued to bring this program back on schedule?

…Thank you for your support and we look forward to working with you to ensure Montana’s Air National Guard receives the aircraft they have been promised on a reasonable timeline,” they wrote in the letter.

Read the full letter HERE.

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Duckworth, Cisneros, Colleagues Introduce the PROTECT Military Families Act

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), along with U.S. Representative Gil Cisneros (D-CA-31), introduced the PROTECT Military Families Act, a bicameral bill that aims to protect military families from deportation and forced separation detrimental to military morale and mission readiness.

“There is no higher betrayal to our heroes than to have one of their family members deported by the same nation they sacrificed to defend,” said Senator Duckworth. “In his ICE raids, Donald Trump is targeting servicemembers, Veterans and their loved ones—separating families who have made tremendous sacrifices for our country. Our legislation would help support our men and women who served by protecting their families from deportation. They fought for this country, and it’s past time Congress joins us to fight for them too.”

“Our servicemembers and veterans served our nation and dedicated their lives to protect American values and our freedoms—it is only fitting that we provide a pathway to protect their families,” said Rep. Cisneros. “Our Armed Forces deserve to keep their families together and feel safe in their communities. I am proud to introduce legislation with Senator Duckworth and our colleagues that will protect these families by providing a stable pathway to Parole in Place.”

The PROTECT Military Families Act would direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to parole family members of qualifying current or former members of the U.S. Armed Forces. It creates a mandatory pathway to Parole in Place (PIP) benefitting spouses, widows or widowers, parents or children of qualifying current or former U.S. Armed Forces members. Parole can be denied only if the Secretary jointly issues a detailed written justification for the denial with the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs.

Along with Duckworth, this legislation is co-sponsored in the Senate by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

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Duckworth Statement After Senate Advances Bipartisan War Powers Resolution to Block Further Military Action in Venezuela

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement after the Senate advanced a bipartisan War Powers Resolution—which Duckworth cosponsored—that would block the use of the U.S. Armed Forces to engage in hostilities within or against Venezuela unless authorized by Congress.

“It is indisputable that Nicolás Maduro was a brutal dictator. But it is not America’s responsibility to go around the world using our military to push regime change when there is no imminent threat to our national security and then running foreign countries when we have our own serious problems here at home.

“Our Constitution is clear: only the American people, through their elected representatives in Congress, can authorize a President to engage in acts of war. It entrusts them with this solemn responsibility because it is the American people—not any single occupant of the Oval Office—who will be forced to live with the consequences of those decisions.

“While Donald Trump may never understand that the true costs of war are measured not only in dollars and cents, but in the blood, sweat and sacrifices of our troops and our military families, our servicemembers know all too well just how costly it can be when our nation engages in a war for oil without a plan for what comes next. We owe it to our troops, our military families and to all of the American people to fully consider those costs before engaging in war.

“As Donald Trump continues ignoring this Constitutional requirement, today’s bipartisan vote in the Senate is a step toward blocking the President from further escalating military force against Venezuela, reasserting our Constitutional authority and sending an important message that Trump must end his march into another reckless forever war with no justification and no end state.”

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Durbin Joins Cantwell, Young To Introduce Bipartisan National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act

Today’s legislation builds upon Durbin’s efforts to support the future of quantum research in Illinois

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today joined U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Todd Young (R-IN), Steve Daines (R-MT), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI.), Ted Budd (R-NC), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and Mike Rounds (R-SD) to introduce the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act. The bipartisan legislation would accelerate quantum technology development and real-world applications that are vital to U.S. national security and global economic competitiveness.

“In Illinois, we know that quantum computing is the future,” said Durbin. “If we hope to push this field forward, we must invest in our quantum research centers and offer scientists the resources to advance computing, security, and connectivity. I’m joining my colleagues in support of the bipartisan National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act to ensure that we continue leading the quantum revolution.”

“From scientific breakthroughs in healthcare to clean energy solutions, quantum technology is a game-changer and federal investment is vital to accelerating the transition from basic science to quantum innovation and practical applications,” said Cantwell. “The State of Washington, with its vibrant tech industry, national lab partnerships and a growing pipeline of quantum engineers and technicians, is poised to become ‘Quantum Valley.’ By investing in workforce development, promoting international cooperation with trusted allies and supporting resilient domestic supply chains, the National Quantum Initiative will position the United States to drive innovation, benefit from economic growth and create high-skilled jobs.”

“We need to ensure the United States has the talent and research capabilities required to lead the global tech competition and outcompete China,” said Young. “Quantum technologies promise to dramatically transform every industry and sector of our economy and revolutionize our technological capabilities. The National Quantum Initiative strengthens the research and development investments and builds a strong workforce which plays a critical role in safeguarding America’s economic and national security. This legislation, which reauthorizes the NQI, is critical to ensuring American leadership in quantum technology.”

“I’m proud to introduce the NQIA with Senator Todd Young. In the past several years, Montana has become a leader in quantum and photonics research,” said Daines. “The industry supports our economy and provides hundreds of Montana jobs. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to ensure critical research programs continue so the U.S. remains at the forefront of cutting-edge technology.”

Since its enactment in 2018, the National Quantum Initiative (NQI) has helped to catalyze a rapidly growing U.S. quantum ecosystem, supporting the emergence of dozens of venture-backed quantum startups and a broader national industry spanning quantum computing, networking, and sensing. Through NQI-aligned programs, researchers have produced thousands of peer-reviewed publications and patents, and a new generation of quantum engineers has been trained. Federal coordination under the Initiative has driven billions of dollars in public and private investment, accelerating breakthroughs and strengthening U.S. leadership in quantum standards and measurement science.

These outcomes clearly demonstrate that the Initiative has moved quantum from a fragmented research effort into a nationally coordinated engine for innovation, commercialization, and competitiveness. But without sustained federal investment and a clear pathway beyond basic research, the United States risks losing technological leadership, weakening national security advantages, and ceding future economic growth to foreign competitors.

The bipartisan legislation would advance the National Quantum Initiative across the full research-to-application spectrum, strengthening basic research while accelerating practical applications and expanding the Initiative to include the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) research initiatives, including quantum satellite communications and quantum sensing. The bill would establish up to three new National Institute of Science and Technology (NIST) quantum centers. It would create five new National Science Foundation (NSF) Multidisciplinary Centers for Quantum Research and Education, a quantum education and workforce hub and new quantum testbeds. These new centers, hubs, and testbeds would provide the shared infrastructure needed to scale quantum research, translate breakthroughs into applications, and train the next generation of quantum scientists and engineers.

The National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act would:

Extend the National Quantum Initiative by five years to December 2034 and reauthorize quantum research, education and development initiatives across NIST, NSF and NASA.

Require the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy to develop an international quantum cooperation strategy to coordinate R&D activities with allies of the United States.

Create new prize challenges to accelerate the development of quantum applications and algorithms through public-private collaboration.

Direct the Secretary of Commerce to submit a plan to Congress to strengthen quantum supply chain resilience.

Establish up to three new NIST quantum centers to advance research in quantum sensing, measurement and engineering.

Create five new NSF Multidisciplinary Centers for Quantum Research and Education, a quantum workforce coordination hub and quantum testbeds.

For the first time, authorizes NASA quantum R&D activities including quantum satellite communications and quantum sensing research initiatives.

Durbin, Cantwell, Young, and Daines first introduced S. 5411, the National Quantum Initiative Act, in December 2024. The National Quantum Initiative coordinates quantum research and development to advance the United States’ economic and national security. The original five-year authorization was signed into law in December 2018, and authorization of appropriations for certain R&D programs expired on September 30, 2023. Authorization for the entire National Quantum Initiative expires December 21, 2029.

Durbin has been a strong supporter of pushing quantum research forward. Last February, Durbin reintroduced the DOE Quantum Leadership Act of 2025, which would reinvigorate R&D projects at DOE by authorizing more than $2.5 billion in funding over the next five years, which is well above the $625 million for DOE-related programs laid out in the now expired National Quantum Initiative Act of 2018. The DOE Quantum Leadership Act would also provide DOE the authority to expand its current quantum R&D initiatives.

Durbin has previously visited MxD in Chicago to discuss integrating quantum technology into manufacturing processes. He also joined Illinois leaders to announce the new partnership between the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and Illinois – Quantum Proving Ground – to promote quantum computing research, development, and manufacturing in the state.

Durbin previously joined Illinois leaders in celebrating the newly-announced location of the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park’s (IQMP) location at USX on the South Side of Chicago and the announcement of the quantum campus’ first anchor tenant, PsiQuantum. Illinois plans to invest $500 million into the new quantum campus to attract Fortune 500 companies and startups in quantum computing.

The full text of the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act is HERE and a section by section is HERE.

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Durbin Votes For War Powers Resolution Requiring Congressional Authority For Further U.S. Military Action Against Venezuela

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement after the Senate advanced a bipartisan war powers resolution to block the use of the U.S. Armed Forces to engage in hostilities within or against Venezuela unless authorized by Congress. The resolution advanced in the Senate by a vote of 52-47.

“Nicolás Maduro repeatedly denied the will of the Venezuelan people, including when two thirds of them voted for an end to decades of cruelty and political and economic ruin. The decision to remove him does not cause tears in my household and I’m glad he is not in power today.

“However, I learned during my time in Congress that it is far easier to start a war than it is to end one. The U.S. Constitution explicitly says that the power to declare war resides with Congress. The Trump Administration is engaging us in a long-term conflict that could cost us dearly—and they have yet to engage the American people in the discussion and rationale of our ultimate goals in the region. Until we have clarity, we cannot allow this conflict to escalate at the expense of American lives. I applaud my five Republican colleagues for joining every Senate Democrat to advance this resolution.”

The resolution was led in the Senate by U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Rand Paul (R-KY), Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA). Article 1, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution states that the power to declare war is an explicit power of Congress and Congress overwhelmingly reaffirmed this constitutional provision when it passed the War Powers Act in 1973 over the veto of President Nixon.

In April 2018, Durbin traveled to Venezuela, where he met with then-National Assembly Member Juan Guaidó as well as President Nicolás Maduro, warning him that pursuing a sham election the following month would further isolate his autocratic regime. In July 2024, Durbin condemned Nicolás Maduro for falsely claiming that the nation’s election was called in his favor, despite meticulously documented election results by observers demonstrating overwhelming support for opposition candidate Edmundo González. He reiterated these comments in an additional speech on the Senate floor in September 2024.

In September 2024, Durbin met with five Latin American democracies’ ambassadors to discuss the electoral crisis in Venezuela. In January 2025, Durbin reintroduced a bill terminating all U.S. petroleum cooperation and petroleum-related trade with Venezuela until the legitimate results of the recent Venezuelan election are respected. And in May 2025, Durbin met virtually with Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado.

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Fetterman Statement on Voting For War Powers Resolution

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined 51 of his colleagues in voting for S.J.Res. 98, the Venezuela War Powers Resolution. Senator Fetterman released the following statement:

“I believe the arrest of Maduro was a positive development for Venezuela and its people.

“I salute our incredible military for their precise execution.


Gallego Backs Resolution to Honor Victims, Survivors and Courage of Former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords 15 Years After the Tucson Shooting

WASHINGTON — On the 15th anniversary of the January 8, 2011, shooting in Tucson, Arizona, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) backed a bipartisan, bicameral resolution honoring the six people killed, the survivors whose lives were forever changed, and former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, whose courage and leadership have inspired a national movement to end gun violence and reject political violence.

“Fifteen years ago, Arizona lost six lives in a senseless act of political violence targeting Congresswoman Gabby Giffords. Gabby has turned this unimaginable trauma into a lifelong mission to end gun violence once and for all, and in doing so, she has inspired all of us in Arizona and across the country with her courage and resilience,” said Senator Gallego. “We must never forget those we lost that day and recommit to honoring the survivors by making it clear that gun violence and political violence have no place in our country.”

At 10:10 a.m. on January 8, 2011 – just days after being sworn in for her third term – Giffords was shot during a “Congress On Your Corner” event outside a Safeway grocery store in Tucson. Six people were killed, and thirteen were injured in an act of gun violence that shocked the nation and forever altered the lives of countless families.

The resolution recognizes the six people who were killed and thirteen others who were injured, including Congresswoman Giffords. Among those killed were Chief Judge John Roll of the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona; Gabriel “Gabe” Zimmerman, a Giffords’ staff member and the first congressional staffer killed while serving; Dorothy “Dot” Morris; Phyllis Schneck; Dorwan Stoddard; and nine-year-old Christina-Taylor Green.

Amidst the escalating political violence and threats directed at public officials, the resolution underscores our obligation to denounce violence, uphold democratic principles, and promote respectful discourse. The resolution reaffirms the dignity of public service and democratic values that unify and uplift all Americans.

1/8/26