Larsen and Colleagues Secure Reinstatement of Addiction and Mental Health Funding

Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) cheered the reinstatement of nearly $2 billion in grants to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), including seven Health Care Authority-administered grants in Washington state. The reinstatement of this funding, which spanned thousands of grants across the nation addressing issues from youth overdose prevention to prenatal and postpartum care for women, comes just one day after grantees received letters from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) abruptly cancelling this funding.

“The Trump administration’s reckless decision to cancel almost $2 billion in funding to fight the opioid epidemic shows they do not care about helping families and communities recover from addiction,” said Rep. Larsen. “I worked with Democrats and Republicans to demand this funding be reinstated and I am glad the Administration caved quickly. I will keep supporting local efforts to end the opioid epidemic and keep holding the Trump administration accountable for the harm they cause.”

Larsen is Focused on Combating Opioid Crisis in Northwest Washington

Rep. Larsen is focused on supporting local efforts to combat the opioid crisis and save lives. In 2024, he published a districtwide opioid report that outlines a four-pillar framework to combat the crisis. Larsen has introduced four pieces of legislation to fight fentanyl in Northwest Washington:

- The PROTECT Act, which gives Tribal courts and law enforcement more tools and resources to combat the opioid epidemic.

- The Workforce Opportunities for Communities in Recovery Act, which creates employment opportunities for people in recovery and supports communities impacted by widespread opioid use.

- The End Fentanyl Trafficking with Local Task Forces Act, which establishes a dedicated federal funding stream to help multi-jurisdictional drug task forces combat opioid trafficking in Washington state and across the country.

- The Closing the Substance Use Care Gap Act, which expands access to lifesaving, community-based harm reduction initiatives and services and enhances the federal response to the opioid and fentanyl epidemic.

Bipartisan Lawmakers Demand Reinstatement of Funding

Following the SAMHSA grant cancellations yesterday, Larsen joined a bipartisan letter with 100 House colleagues to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. demanding that funding be restored immediately.

Members who signed on to the bipartisan letter are as follows: Tonko, Paul; Dean, Madeleine; Beyer, Donald; Salinas, Andrea; Fitzpatrick, Brian; Trahan, Lori; Pettersen, Brittany; Matsui, Doris; Moulton, Seth; Amo, Gabe; Carter, Troy; Balint, Becca; Schrier, Kim, Auchincloss, Jake; Bell, Wesley; Bishop, Sanford; Bonamici, Suzanne; Bresnahan, Robert; Brown, Shontel; Budzinski, Nikki; Carbajal, Salud; Casten, Sean; Castro, Joaquin; Chu, Judy; Cohen, Steve; Davis, Danny; DelBene, Suzan; Deluzio, Christopher; Dexter, Maxine; Dingell, Debbie; Doggett, Lloyd; Elfreth, Sarah; Escobar, Veronica; Espaillat, Adriano; Fields, Cleo; Figures, Shomari; Fletcher, Lizzie; García, Jesús; Gillen, Laura; Goldman, Daniel; Grijalva, Adelita; Harder, Josh; Hernández, Pablo; Horsford, Steven; Hoyle, Val; Ivey, Glenn; Jacobs, Sara; Jayapal, Pramila; Kamlager-Dove, Sydney; Kelly, Robin; Kennedy, Timothy; Khanna, Ro; Krishnamoorthi, Raja; Landsman, Greg; Larson, John; Lee, Summer; Lee, Susie; Leger Fernandez, Teresa; Lynch, Stephen; McClellan, Jennifer; McDonald Rivet, Kristen; McGovern, James; McIver, LaMonica; Meeks, Gregory; Meng, Grace; Morrison, Kelly; Moylan, James; Norcross, Donald; Omar, Ilhan; Panetta, Jimmy; Pappas, Chris; Pelosi, Nancy; Pocan, Mark; Pou, Nellie; Pressley, Ayanna; Quigley, Mike; Ramirez, Delia; Randall, Emily; Riley, Josh; Rivas, Luz; Scanlon, Mary Gay; Schakowsky, Janice; Schneider, Bradley; Simon, Lateefah; Smith, Adam; Stansbury, Melanie; Stanton, Greg; Strickland, Marilyn; Suozzi, Thomas; Swalwell, Eric; Takano, Mark; Thompson, Mike; Tlaib, Rashida; Tokuda, Jill; Vasquez, Gabe; Walkinshaw, James; Watson Coleman, Bonnie; Whitesides, George; Williams, Nikema.

The lawmakers’ full letter to HHS is available HERE and below:

Dear Secretary Kennedy,

We are extremely concerned by reports of the sudden termination of what appears to be the vast majority of the discretionary grants at Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Addressing mental health and substance use disorder prevention, treatment and recovery is a bipartisan priority. The work of SAMHSA is not a partisan priority. It should be a priority for every American, every member of Congress and every Administration. Every state relies on SAMHSA funding to respond to these pressing mental health and addiction challenges. In Congress we have worked to prioritize the focus on mental health and substance use disorder, to reduce stigma and to expand access to prevention, recovery and treatment.

Reports indicate that 2,800 grant termination notices have been distributed across the nation for critical programs that support mental health and addiction resources effective January 13, 2026. We strongly urge you to rescind all of the terminations immediately. Too many people across the country are suffering without necessary resources. We must ensure that SAMHSA programs serve their congressionally intended purpose of getting lifesaving resources to our communities.

Given the urgency, we ask that you provide the following information by January 16, 2026.

1. How many grants were terminated at SAMHSA and what programs were included?

2. What was the rationale for each termination? Please explain how each program "no longer effectuates agency priorities."

3. The President recently signed the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act, which reauthorized many of these programs for 5 years. Of the grants that were cancelled, please provide a justification as to why these grants do not align with the direction given under the SUPPORT Act?

Sincerely,

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Reversing Trump Administration Cuts, Larson Announces Restoration of Local Public Health Initiatives

Washington, D.C. - Today, after news broke that the Trump Administration was canceling $2 billion in federal funding for mental health and addiction services, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) announced the full restoration of funds, including for programs at Hartford’s Community Renewal Team and The Village for Families and Children.

Following the abrupt grant cancellations from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Larson joined a bipartisan letter with 100 House colleagues to Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. demanding the immediate restoration of funding.

“Once again, the Trump Administration tried to end funding Americans depend on – for mental health care and addiction treatment – with no notice or explanation," said Larson. “This time, Secretary Kennedy went after some of the most vulnerable in our society – even trying to cut programs in Hartford that support residents living with HIV/AIDS. Thankfully, we spoke out with a strong, bipartisan coalition in Congress, along with immediate national outrage, and the funding was restored! Public pressure still works. I was proud to stand with local partners like CRT and the Village for Families and Children to fight for these vital programs. We will continue to work together to ensure Connecticut residents have the support and resources they need.”

In addition to $7.2 million in proposed cuts to programs operated by the State of Connecticut, the Trump Administration tried to cut more than $1 million in funding for programs operated by the Community Renewal Team (CRT) and The Village for Families and Children, including medication options and counseling for individuals recovering from opioid and alcohol addiction, and testing, education, and case management for individuals living with or affected by HIV.

“The decision to rescind the SAMHSA grant termination is necessary for CRT to continue to provide essential services through our Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) and HIV-AIDS Risk (HARP) Programs. It also reaffirms the national commitment to fighting the opioid crisis and supporting those affected by addiction and mental health issues. We are grateful for Congressman Larson’s support and advocacy. Together, we will continue empowering individuals and strengthening families as we work towards a healthier future for all,” said Lena Rodriguez, President & CEO, Community Renewal Team (CRT).

"The Village programs supported by the federal funds help hundreds of people recover from addiction and transform their lives. Abrupt elimination of the grants would be devastating for these folks and their families, not to mention their communities. The last 24 hours have been a rollercoaster ride for us as we try to determine the status of the funding and what impact any changes may have on our clients and staff. Just today we were notified the grants were restored so we hope the uncertainty will subside and this important work can continue without interruptions," said Village President & CEO, Hector Glynn.


As Trump Continues to Threaten Greenland, Larson Cosponsors Urgent Bill to Protect NATO Allies from Illegal Invasions

“After ignoring Congress to carry out an unauthorized military operation in Venezuela, President Trump has set his sights on a NATO ally in Greenland,” said Larson. “We cannot write off his tweets as idle threats. The United States Congress must rein him in now before he destroys our global security and make it clear that we stand with our allies. Our No Funds for NATO Invasion Act will send a clear message to President Trump and the world that no matter what the President says, NATO will stand strong. I hope more of my Republican colleagues will step up to safeguard our nation and world before this rogue president blows up NATO for his own vanity.”


Lawler Pushes for Federal Oversight of NYCHA to Protect New Yorkers

Washington, D.C. - 1/15/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) introduced the Accountability for NYCHA Act of 2026, a bill that would require the Inspector General of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) and report to Congress on the Authority’s compliance with federal housing standards.

NYCHA is the largest housing authority in the nation, serving over 520,000 residents across 177,000 apartments. Yet, investigations have revealed NYCHA’s failure to comply with safety regulations and other standards. As a result, too many residents live in unsafe and substandard conditions. Rep. Lawler has consistently advocated for transparency at NYCHA to ensure residents have access to safe, decent, and sanitary housing.

“New Yorkers living in public housing deserve safe and sanitary homes. NYCHA has failed to meet these basic standards, leaving residents, many of them children, at risk. After touring both older and updated units in November of last year, I saw first-hand how NYCHA is supporting residents. This legislation ensures federal oversight and accountability so that NYCHA follows through on their assurances made on my visit to make residents feel at home. Congress has a responsibility to ensure that federal resources meant to protect residents are used effectively,” said Congressman Lawler.

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

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


Letlow Delivers $2 Million for Local Infrastructure in Amite

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Julia Letlow has secured $2 million in Community Project Funding to support Amite’s local water and sewer infrastructure.

This federal investment will provide funding for a regional wastewater treatment facility, ensuring improvements to water and sewer services for local residents. The funding passed as part of the FY 2026 Interior and Environment Appropriations bill which cleared Congress on Thursday, and will be administered by the Town of Amite.

“I am committed to ensuring the Florida Parishes have strong representation in Washington that delivers for small towns like Amite. This funding will provide much-needed improvements for Amite’s wastewater management, improving public services for local residents in Tangipahoa Parish,” said Congresswoman Julia Letlow. “Through my seat on the House Appropriations Committee, I will continue to deliver wins for the Florida Parishes.”

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Letlow Delivers $3.7 Million for Flood Mitigation Research at LSU

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Through her work on the House Appropriations Committee, Congresswoman Julia Letlow has delivered nearly $4 million in Community Project Funding to support LSU’s efforts to reduce flood risk in South Louisiana.

The $3.7 million investment will be used to establish the Center for Risks, Insurability, and Sustainable Protection (CRISP) at LSU. The funding passed as part of the FY 2026 Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations bill which cleared Congress on Thursday.

The Center will focus its research efforts on combating the harsh effects of severe flooding, and reducing the high insurance costs often resulting from repeat flooding during extreme weather events.

“As Louisiana's flagship university, LSU is well equipped to pioneer effective strategies to protect our citizens from severe flooding. This funding will empower groundbreaking research into mitigating future flood damage and holding down insurance costs for Louisianans,” said Congresswoman Julia Letlow. “We must be prepared for when natural disaster strikes, which is why a significant portion of my appropriations efforts have focused on protecting South Louisiana from severe flooding.”

The funding comes on the heels of Letlow securing $2 million in support for flood prevention efforts in South Louisiana along the Amite River.

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Letlow Delivers Law Enforcement Funding for Louisiana Communities

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Julia Letlow has secured $1.3 million in Community Project Funding to purchase new police cruisers and other equipment for local law enforcement in Louisiana’s 5th District.

The funding will be distributed through the Red River Delta Law Enforcement Planning Council, ensuring the purchase of a variety of law enforcement equipment, technology, and vehicles for communities in rural Louisiana. The funding passed as part of the FY 2026 Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations bill which cleared Congress on Thursday.

“In order to keep our communities safe, law enforcement must have access to safe and reliable equipment. I secured this funding so that law enforcement in our rural communities could quickly respond to emergencies and keep Louisianans safe,” said Congresswoman Julia Letlow. “I will continue to use my seat on the House Appropriations Committee to support law enforcement and protect the safety of our citizens.

The below law enforcement agencies will benefit from the funding, which includes Police Cruisers, K-9, Correctional Surveillance Systems, Automatic External Defibrators, Full Body Armor Suits, Mobile Data Terminals, In-Unit Mobile Radios, License Plate Readers, Security Camera Boxes, Scouting Cameras, Full Body Scanners, Blacklight Reactive Markers, and Portable Radios.

SHERIFF’S OFFICES:

Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Office

Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office

Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office

LaSalle Parish Sheriff’s Office

Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office

Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office

POLICE DEPARTMENTS:


Rep. Levin & Rep. Pfluger Urge Department of Energy to Make Changes to National Spent Nuclear Fuel Policy

Washington, D.C.—Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) and Rep. August Pfluger (TX- 11) announced they sent a bipartisan letter to Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Chris Wright urging him to establish a safe, effective, and long-term management program for spent nuclear fuel. The letter was sent ahead of DOE’s anticipated release of a new report that will recommend an updated national policy on spent nuclear fuel.

“As DOE develops a recommended national policy on spent nuclear fuel and high-level nuclear waste management, we encourage you to take an important step to re-establish a single-purpose office to manage the spent nuclear fuel program, outside of the Office of Nuclear Energy and with a direct reporting relationship to your office. This is consistent with existing law and will help ensure the priorities for restoring an active nuclear waste management program remain in focus,” reads the letter.

“The United States has the technical capabilities to be successful in this endeavor, but we must break the current impasse over nuclear waste and develop a workable solution that encourages state collaboration,” continues the letter.

Since entering Congress in 2019, Rep. Levin has secured over $148 million for the safe removal and management of the nation’s spent nuclear fuel, including at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS). Rep. Levin has also introduced the bipartisan Nuclear Waste Administration Act of 2024, which would modernize our country’s nuclear waste management program by establishing an independent Nuclear Waste Administration to manage the country’s nuclear waste. The safe management and removal of spent nuclear fuel out of SONGS remains a top priority for Rep. Levin.

Click here or see below for the full letter:

Dear Secretary Wright:

As the Department of Energy (DOE) develops a recommended national policy for the

management of spent nuclear fuel (SNF) and high-level nuclear waste (HLW), as directed in the Executive Order Reinvigorating the Nuclear Industrial Base, we write to urge you to establish a safe, effective, long-term management program for nuclear waste.

We appreciate your support for the continued collaborative discussions on consolidated storage and your recognition of the importance of an opt-in approach for siting nuclear waste facilities. We hope to work with you to modernize the nuclear waste management program, including developing policies and governance structures that encourage durable state and local collaboration. We believe this work will strongly support the Administration’s goal to expand the United States’ nuclear energy capacity.

Under the Nuclear Waste Policy Act (NWPA), DOE is responsible for siting, constructing, and operating a permanent repository, subject to Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensing and regulatory authority. The federal government—including Congress—has been unable to fulfill these obligations for the last decade. As a result, more than 90,000 metric tons of spent nuclear fuel remain stored at nuclear power plants across the country, costing taxpayers billions of dollars. Moreover, the long-standing political—not technical—impasse has left communities with decommissioned nuclear plants saddled with long-term spent fuel storage—limiting prospects for economic redevelopment.

DOE estimates a remaining financial liability between $38.6 billion and $44.3 billion, in addition to the $12.2 billion already paid, for commercial SNF[1], and $23 billion for the DOE’s own legacy HLW and SNF.[2] These liabilities are paid with taxpayer dollars and will continue to grow without decisive action to re-establish a workable nuclear waste program. With the growing prospects of massive nuclear energy growth, the increasing use of new fuel forms and technologies, and the economic needs of communities across the nation, we must take steps to restore and update our national nuclear waste management policy.

We recognize that legislative action will likely be necessary to restore a workable, long-term spent fuel management program, and we stand ready to work in Congress and with the Administration to achieve this.

In the meantime, as DOE develops a recommended national policy on SNF and HLW

management, we encourage you to take an important step to re-establish a single-purpose office to manage the spent nuclear fuel program, outside of the Office of Nuclear Energy and with a direct reporting relationship to your office. This is consistent with existing law and will help ensure the priorities for restoring an active nuclear waste management program remain in focus.

The United States has the technical capabilities to be successful in this endeavor, but we must break the current impasse over nuclear waste and develop a workable solution that encourages state collaboration.

We appreciate your consideration of our recommendation and look forward to working with you to advance administrative and legislative solutions to stop wasting taxpayer dollars and fulfill the federal government’s responsibility to manage spent nuclear fuel.

Sincerely,

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Rep. Mike Levin Advances over $100 Million to Address Spent Nuclear Fuel Nationwide, Including at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station

Washington, D.C.—Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) advanced over $100 million to address spent nuclear fuel across the country, including at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS), in the government funding package that passed the House and Senate. The legislation now heads to the President’s desk for signature.

The funds will be used to develop the infrastructure needed to safely transport and manage waste, work with communities to identify a suitable new site, and support research into improved long-term management of spent nuclear fuel. At SONGS alone, about 3.55 million pounds of waste is stored in dozens of canisters that need to be relocated.

“This money keeps up our momentum as we move towards a solution for San Onofre. Spent nuclear fuel scattered across our country, and specifically in my district at San Onofre, creates real risk for nearby communities,” said Rep. Levin. “For decades, this waste has been left in unsuitable and temporary conditions that were never intended to be a long-term solution. We cannot waste any more time. These funds must be used to continue to develop a solution for San Onofre as quickly as possible, and I look forward to the final passage of the government funding package that includes these resources.”

“This funding is just the next step in our efforts. In the long term, we need significantly more investment and a clear national strategy to ensure that spent nuclear fuel is stored and disposed of safely and responsibly. The current situation at San Onofre is inadequate as a long-term solution,” continued Rep. Levin.

This investment builds on over $148 million Rep. Levin previously secured for the safe removal and management of the nation’s spent nuclear fuel. This brings the total funding he has secured for managing spent nuclear fuel to over $248 million. Rep. Levin has also introduced the bipartisan Nuclear Waste Administration Act of 2024, which would modernize our country’s nuclear waste management program by establishing an independent Nuclear Waste Administration to manage the country’s nuclear waste.

Since entering Congress in 2019, Rep. Levin has secured more than $1 billion in federal funding for the 49th District. The package that includes these funds for spent nuclear fuel now heads to the Senate, where it is expected to pass. It will then need to be signed by the President.

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Sánchez statement on ICE assaulting LA County park employees at Whittier Narrows

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.) released the following statement after two Los Angeles County employees were racially profiled and reportedly assaulted by ICE agents yesterday at Whittier Narrows Recreation Area:

“The Trump administration has clearly given ICE the greenlight to treat anyone non-white as probable cause for harassment.

“The fear and chaos the administration is inflicting on our neighborhoods are why I cosponsored articles of impeachment for DHS Secretary Noem. She and ICE must be held accountable for their lawless behavior.

“What happened at Whittier Narrows was not an accident or a misunderstanding – it’s the result of this administration’s targeted, racist immigration agenda. The two Los Angeles County park employees were clearly identifiable. They were in park uniforms and performing work on county park property. ICE agents chose to accost them simply because of the color of their skin.

“No one, especially public employees serving our community, should be targeted by federal agents because of how they look. ICE’s actions around the country are trampling on civil rights, eroding public trust and terrorizing our communities.”

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Rep. Nancy Mace Slams Attorney General Alan Wilson After Child Sex Offender Arrested, Released Same Day

CHARLESTON, S.C. (Jan. 15, 2026) — Today, Congresswoman Nancy Mace (SC-01) condemned the arrest and same-day release of Travis Reed Gaye, who previously pleaded guilty to child sex offenses, calling the incident a "complete failure" of South Carolina's criminal justice system under Attorney General Alan Wilson and his abject failure to prosecute child sexual exploitation.

"If you’re a pedophile, you definitely want Alan Wilson to prosecute your case," said Rep. Mace. "Wilson needs to answer for what he's done to our children in South Carolina."

Wilson’s office dropped six out of seven charges for Gaye for child sexual exploitation of a minor, which carried a combined potential sentence of up to 70 years in prison. Gaye previously pled guilty in November 2025 to a single count (instead of seven) for sexual exploitation of a minor and has since spent no time in jail. Despite the severity of his possession of child sexual abuse material and pleading guilty, Gaye received probation instead of facing time behind bars, with a suspended sentence of ten years if he violated probation.

He violated probation just ten days later.

Gaye, a registered sex offender was then arrested on December 16, 2025, by the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services (SCDPPPS) for multiple probation violations, and was released back onto the streets within hours.

According to arrest warrants and court records, probation agents discovered Gaye in violation of multiple conditions. Despite these violations and despite Gaye’s plea agreement specified prison time upon violation, he was released from the Charleston County Detention Center the same day after a magistrate, without a law degree, set a $15,000 bond.

"Those who abuse children should never be free to begin with,” Rep. Mace added. "What happened here is a betrayal of every parent, every victim, and every child in South Carolina. Alan Wilson is turning our state into a pedophile paradise."

Unfortunately, child predators walking free in our streets has become the norm under Alan Wilson. Records obtained through Freedom of Information Acts from Alan Wilson’s office reveal a prosecutorial breakdown and years of failure:

32 CASES DISMISSED IN ONE YEAR:

Attorney General Wilson's office dismissed at least 32 child sex crime cases in fiscal year 2024–25 alone, citing "insufficient evidence" or prosecutorial discretion, despite arrests, warrants, and forensic examinations already having occurred. Across multiple years, dozens of additional cases were similarly dismissed.

ZERO TO THREE JURY TRIALS PER YEAR:

From fiscal years 2016–17 through 2024–25, jury trials in child sex crime cases ranged from zero to three statewide annually. Some years saw ZERO jury trials across the entire state. The overwhelming majority of accused child predators never faced a jury, and the public never saw evidence tested in open court.

84% RESOLVED BY PLEA DEALS:

Plea deals overwhelmingly dominate child sex crime prosecutions in South Carolina, with 79% to 84% of all cases each year resolved through plea agreements. In fiscal year 2024–25 alone, 226 cases were plea-bargained, meaning justice was negotiated behind closed doors rather than proven in court.

NEARLY 800 CASES IN BACKLOG:

The backlog has grown by 65%, rising from the high-400s to nearly 800 unresolved child sex crime cases statewide. Hundreds of cases remain open year after year while victims wait for justice and children remain vulnerable.

Congresswoman Mace is calling on Alan Wilson to answer for his failures and provide full transparency regarding:

Why was a child sex offender who pleaded guilty to having a video of an infant being sexually assaulted freed hours after violating probation?

Why were 32 cases dismissed in fiscal year 2024-25 despite evidence, arrests, and forensic examinations?

Why has Alan Wilson’s office abandoned jury trials in favor of hidden plea deals?

Why nearly 800 child sex crime cases remain unresolved year over year?

What immediate action will Alan Wilson take to protect South Carolina's children instead of protecting child predators?

South Carolina parents and children deserve answers.

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Statement from Representative John W. Mannion (NY-22) on Veterans Affairs Inspector General Report on Syracuse VA Medical Center

“Veterans who have served their country have earned access to high quality and timely health care. The issues raised in this report are concerning and our veterans and the staff responsible for caring for them deserve better. I will continue to work with Syracuse VA officials and other stakeholders to protect local services and ensure that the Inspector General’s recommendations are addressed in a timely and comprehensive manner.”


Delaware congressional delegation secures more than $40 million for First State in three appropriations bills

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Sarah McBride and Senators Chris Coons, Lisa Blunt Rochester, (all D-Del.) today celebrated Senate passage of three appropriations bills that make critical investments in public safety, scientific research, clean energy, water infrastructure, and coastal resilience, rejecting the devastating cuts proposed by the Trump administration. Additionally, the three bills, which fund aspects of the government related to Commerce, Justice, and Science; Energy and Water; and Interior and Environment, contain significant funds for Delaware through congressionally directed spending programs, often referred to as earmarks. These earmarks were delivered through an open, bipartisan, bicameral appropriations process.

The delegation secured over $40 million in funding for more than 30 projects across the First State. The bills now head to the president’s desk for his signature.

“This funding is about showing up for Delawareans and delivering real results," said Rep. McBride. "When the Trump administration proposed devastating cuts to our state, our delegation worked together to secure more than $40 million for public safety, clean energy, water infrastructure, and coastal resilience across our state. These investments will keep families safe, lower their costs, protect our vital coastal economy and strengthen our future. I'm proud of the bipartisan work that has made this possible."

“As Delaware’s sole appropriator, I’m proud to have worked with so many communities and organizations from Wilmington to Seaford to get them the resources they need to continue serving the First State,” said Senator Coons. “Through months of effort, we secured more than $40 million in direct investments to make our communities safer and healthier, while making our water cleaner and our economy stronger. These projects come directly from Delawareans for Delawareans, because you know best what our state needs.”

“I am so proud to have worked with Senator Coons and Representative McBride to deliver these historic investments,” said Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester, a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “These projects will make real progress on the issues that matter most to Delawareans — from keeping our communities safe, to strengthening our water infrastructure, and so much more. Together, we will create jobs, lower costs, and improve the quality of life across the First State.”

Delaware Funding Highlights Include:

Over $17.7 million for 7 projects through the Energy and Water Development bill

Over $10.8 million for 14 projects in the Commerce, Justice, Science bill

Over $12.2 million for 13 projects in the Interior and Environment bill

Specific Key Investments Across Delaware:

Public Safety & Law Enforcement

Over $5 million to support police and public safety initiatives, helping local departments protect communities and modernize equipment

Water Infrastructure

Funding for critical water and wastewater projects that improve reliability, protect public health, and help lower rates for Delaware families

Clean Energy & Innovation

$5 million for clean hydrogen-related investments, supporting the University of Delaware’s Center for Clean Hydrogen

NIIMBL

Over $3 million to support the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL), a public-private partnership on the University of Delaware’s campus focused on advancing biopharmaceutical production with private and public members across the country.

Coastal Resilience

$12 million for beach replenishment, protecting replenishment on the Delaware coast from Cape Henlopen to Fenwick Island, and communities in Dover, Wilmington, and along the coast from erosion and flooding.

A complete list of projects can be found here.

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Rep. McBride Presses Trump Administration on Data Center Impacts, Secures Commitment to Explore Funding for Liquid Cooling Technologies

Washington, DC — During a Science, Space, and Technology Subcommittee hearing entitled "Advancing America’s AI Action Plan,” Delaware’s Congresswoman Sarah McBride pressed the Trump administration on the growing impact of data centers on local communities and highlighted the need for smarter, more sustainable infrastructure solutions — including liquid cooling technologies developed in Delaware.

During her questioning of White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Director Michael Kratsios, Rep. McBride raised concerns that she has heard directly from Delawareans about data centers, “being constructed in their communities, straining our energy and water supply and increasing the cost of utilities for all of us.”

McBride emphasized her work to advance innovation developed in Delaware that can reduce those impacts, noting that she has “fought for funding and legislation aimed at developing liquid cooling technologies produced in my state of Delaware that will ensure data centers are smaller and more environmentally friendly,” adding that these technologies could “shrink physical data center footprints by as much as 60% and cut energy consumption by as much as 90%.”

In response, Director Kratsios acknowledged the importance of improving data center efficiency and signaled support for investments in liquid cooling technologies.

“I don't know the specifics about the liquid cooling, but at first glance, that sounds amazing,” said Director Kratsios. “Let's figure out who's working on that and, and, and get some funding towards it.”

Rep. McBride welcomed the response and expressed interest in continued collaboration. The exchange underscores Rep. McBride’s ongoing efforts to center Delaware communities in national AI and infrastructure policy — pushing for innovation that lowers costs, protects local resources, and ensures that technological progress benefits everyday Americans.

The full interaction can be viewed here.

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Rep. McBride on State Senate President Pro Tempore Dave Sokola’s Retirement

Wilmington, DE — Today, Delaware’s Congresswoman Sarah McBride released the following statement in response to the announcement by Delaware State Senate President Pro Tempore Dave Sokola that he would not seek re-election later this year.

“Senator Dave Sokola is my ‘forever president pro tem.’ It was more than an honor to serve alongside Dave in the State Senate, it was also a pleasure. I’ve known Dave for much of my life. Whether I was a young volunteer, an advocate, or a colleague in the legislature, he has always been the same thoughtful and kind man to me just as he is to everyone he meets. But that’s just Dave: he is a truly good and decent person and a courageous leader.

“From his deep passion for empowering everyone from early childhood onward to his leadership passing non-discrimination protections and marriage equality, Dave reaches to the margins of society to pull people in. And when he became president pro tem at the start of my time in the State Senate, I had a front row seat to Dave pushing past other’s skepticism and resistance to action in order to deliver a bold agenda for Delaware: a $15 minimum wage, historic investments in high-need schools, paid family and medical leave, strong gun safety and reproductive freedom protections, the list goes on. He made the Delaware State Senate a laboratory of ideas and an engine of action for Delaware.

“Our State of Neighbors is stronger, better, and kinder because of Dave Sokola. And so, too, am I for having the chance to serve alongside him.

“Congratulations on a well-deserved retirement, Dave, and thank you for your decades of service to Delaware!”

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Congresswoman McClain Delaney Traveling to Minnesota for Field Hearing on Trump’s Lawless Assaults on American Communities

Tomorrow, Congresswoman April McClain Delaney (MD-06) will join more than two dozen members of Congress for a field hearing, “Kidnapped & Disappeared: Trump’s Deadly Assault on Minnesota.” This hearing comes on the heels of ICE’s killing of 37-year-old U.S. citizen Renee Nicole Good and President Trump’s lawless assaults in Minnesota and throughout the nation. It will feature witnesses who will speak to personal trauma and constitutional violations. The hearing is being organized by Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), who is Ranking Member of the Immigration, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee, and Rep. Ilhan Omar (MN-07).

A press conference will immediately follow the hearing. The events will be livestreamed.

The Congresswoman is working closely with fellow Maryland lawmakers and local leaders to push back against the Administration’s treatment of our neighbors in Maryland’s Sixth District. Upon her return, she will conduct an oversight tour of ICE’s Baltimore field office to personally inspect conditions and the treatment of those detained there. Yesterday, she joined House lawmakers in calling for the impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. She also strongly opposes and will fight the Administration’s plans to build an ICE detention warehouse in Hagerstown.

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For updates, follow Rep. McClain Delaney at @RepAprilDelaney.

Congresswoman April McClain Delaney was elected in 2024 to serve Maryland’s 6th Congressional District, which encompasses all or part of Montgomery, Frederick, Washington, Allegany and Garrett Counties. In Congress, McClain Delaney is focused on improving US competitiveness and innovation, protecting our natural environment and championing policies that represent the values and priorities of Maryland’s 6th District.


Congresswoman McCollum Condemns President Trump's Threat to Invoke Insurrection Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Thursday morning, President Trump announced on his social media platform that he was considering invoking the Insurrection Act in Minnesota. Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D, MN-04), the Dean of the Minnesota Congressional Delegation, issued the following statement in response to the President’s threat:

“I totally reject President Trump’s threat to invoke the Insurrection Act in Minnesota. This would allow the President to deploy the U.S. military into our state. The President’s dangerous threat to invoke the Insurrection Act is an escalation at a time when Minnesotans are asking President Trump to stop the chaos caused by federal agents.

“Minnesotans are protesting peacefully, speaking out, and documenting the violence being carried out by masked, unprofessional, poorly trained ICE and DHS agents against residents of our state.

“I call upon all Republican elected officials in the state of Minnesota and across the country to condemn President Trump’s reckless threats against our citizens.

“Democracy can be fragile at times. That’s why we all have a duty as Minnesotans and as Americans to continue to speak out to defend the civil rights of all, document ICE and DHS agents’ brutality against our neighbors, protect the rule of law, and preserve our democracy today and for future generations.”


Congressman Morgan McGarvey Backs Impeachment of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem

WASHINGTON, D.C. (January 15, 2026) – Today, Congressman Morgan McGarvey (KY-03) announced his decision to back articles of impeachment against Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem.

“ICE is committing atrocities in communities across the country every single day,” said McGarvey. “In a long list of failures to protect public safety and her lies, self-dealing, and corruption; ICE murdered Renee Good, and Secretary Noem defended it. It’s well past time to impeach her and cut DHS off from the taxpayer dollars they are using to fund a terror campaign against our own neighbors.”

McGarvey joins a group of House Democratic lawmakers who filed three articles of impeachment against Noem for obstruction of Congress, violation of public trust, and self-dealing. The Constitution gives the U.S. House sole power of impeachment.

Obstruction of Congress: Secretary Noem willfully obstructed congressional oversight and withheld Congressionally appropriated funds in violation of her constitutional oath and federal law. There have been six documented denials of Members of Congress entering DHS facilities, despite following Secretary Noem’s unlawful seven-day notice requirement to visit.

Violation of Public Trust: Secretary Noem has repeatedly violated the Immigration and Nationality Act, the First and Fourth Amendments of the United States Constitution. She’s also broken due process by directing ICE to conduct warrantless arrests and use violence against U.S. citizens and lawful individuals.

Self-Dealing: Secretary Noem has misused her position for personal gain while inappropriately using $200 million taxpayer dollars to fund an ad campaign for ICE recruitment. She bypassed the normal competitive bidding process to award a contract to a firm called Strategy Group. Strategy Group was formed just days before the award and is run by the husband of senior DHS official Tricia McClaughlin, a close friend of Secretary Noem.

Read the full text of the impeachment articles here.

Watch or download Rep. McGarvey's floor spech here.

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Congressman Morgan McGarvey represents Kentucky’s Third Congressional District, including Louisville and Jefferson County. He serves on the House Veterans Affairs, Small Business, and Budget Committees.


House Foreign Affairs Ranking Member Meeks Cautions Against U.S. Military Strikes on Iran

Washington, D.C. - Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, today issued a statement urging the Trump administration to not undermine the protest movement in Iran by using military force, which he argued would result in ramifications far beyond the protests.

“I stand in solidarity with the Iranian people, who are making their voices heard in opposition to a brutal regime. U.S. military action taken under the premise of helping these protesters risks doing the opposite: silencing an organic movement, strengthening the regime’s narrative, and inflicting civilian harm. Any lasting change in Iran will come from the courage of the Iranian people marching for dignity and freedoms, not from U.S. military strikes.

“The Iranian regime is a brutal, corrupt, and repressive government that has for decades terrorized its own people and destabilized the region. It is a regime that deserves to be replaced. But history is clear: the United States has never achieved sustainable regime change through airstrikes alone.

“As the administration weighs its options, Congress must be fully consulted. The American people deserve clear answers about whether U.S. forces in the region are prepared for potential Iranian retaliation, whether our diplomats and service members could be placed at greater risk, and whether our allies—particularly Israel—are fully coordinated with and prepared to defend against possible missile attacks. Most importantly, the administration should make clear how military action is in the interest of the American people who voted against more reckless foreign wars.

“At a moment when the United States is already stretched globally—responding to crises in Ukraine, Gaza, of its own making in Venezuela, and elsewhere—we must be honest about the risks of escalation and the real possibility of a regional conflict spiraling out of control.

“I urge restraint and a return to a strategy that reflects our values, our constitutional responsibilities, and the hard lessons of history. The most effective way to stand with the Iranian people is through support that empowers Iranians themselves.”


Menendez Cosponsors Legislation Banning Members of Congress, Presidents, and Vice Presidents From Owning and Trading Stocks

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Rob Menendez has cosponsored H.R. 6731, the Restore Trust in Government Act, led by Congressmembers Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Seth Magaziner (RI-02). The legislation would prohibit presidents, vice presidents, Members of Congress, and their dependent children, spouses, and trustees from owning and trading individual stocks.

“Since joining Congress, we have worked tirelessly to ensure that government works for the people we have the privilege of representing,” said Congressman Menendez. “Banning stock trading and ownership of stocks by elected officials is a commonsense approach to eliminating potential conflicts of interest and ensuring that we are acting in the best interests of our constituents. I am proud to support this legislation and will continue to seek other opportunities to improve this institution and trust in our government.”

An overwhelming majority of Americans, including both Democrats and Republicans, support banning stock trading by Members of Congress. The Restore Trust in Government Act would:

Prohibit presidents, vice presidents, Members of Congress, their dependent children, spouses, and trustees from owning, buying, or selling individual stocks, securities, commodities, or futures.

Require Members to divest from all assets covered under the bill – including stocks, securities, commodities, options, qualified blind trusts, and other financial interests – within 180 days of the Act’s enactment into law.

Congressman Menendez previously cosponsored earlier legislation to ban stocktrading in Congress, including the Restore Trust in Congress Act and the TRUST in Congress Act.

To read the bill text, please click here.

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Statement by Congressman Rob Menendez on Secretary Noem Impeachment Effort

“From Day One of the Trump Administration, the Department of Homeland Security - under Secretary Kristi Noem - has engaged in unprecedented abuses, which I myself witnessed firsthand at Delaney Hall last year.

“Since then, Secretary Noem’s abuses of power and unchecked and unaccountable misconduct by DHS have only continued to grow worse - culminating in an ICE agent shooting a woman in broad daylight.

“Every day that Secretary Noem remains in office is a day that communities across our country are unsafe and that Americans are at risk. We cannot allow this to continue. Since President Trump won’t remove Secretary Noem, I am supporting articles of impeachment.”


Miller Participates in 'State of the Steel' Congressional Hearing

Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) joined her colleagues on the Congressional Steel Caucus for a State of the Steel hearing, an annual event where leaders from America’s steel industry, along with trade and labor representatives, testify before Congress on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry and its workforce. The hearing provided Members of Congress the opportunity to hear directly from industry executives and workers on the current state of American steel and the policies impacting its future.

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ICYMI: The Guardian: Reps. Dave Min & Claudia Tenney Urge Trump Administration to Assist the Iranian People by Restoring Their Internet Access

January 15, 2026

Rep. Min: “These blackouts stifle the flow of information going in and out of Iran, leaving Iranians in the dark and protesters disconnected”

Washington, D.C. — Yesterday,the Guardian first reported that Representatives Dave Min (D-CA-47) and Claudia Tenney (R-NY-24) led a bipartisan letter urging “Donald Trump to allow the US government to help open up internet access in Iran.”

Rep. Min said, “These blackouts stifle the flow of information going in and out of Iran, leaving Iranians in the dark and protesters disconnected,” per Politico’s Morning Cybersecurity newsletter, which dug into Iran’s information blackout.

Politico also reported on Rep. Min’s FREEDOM Act, which would “require the FCC and State Department to examine emerging technology to help Iranian citizens maintain access to outside information when the government pulls the plug.”

Read more below.

Guardian

US lawmakers call on Donald Trump to restore internet access in Iran

Robert Tait

A bipartisan group of lawmakers is calling on Donald Trump to allow the US government to help open up internet access in Iran, which the country’s Islamic regime has blocked in an effort to suppress an eruption of unrest.

With deaths soaring into thousands after days of protests across Iran, Democrats and Republicans from the House of Representatives have written to Trump asking him to authorize the state department to collaborate with the Open Technology Fund, a congressionally funded non-profit dedicated to supporting technologies designed to overcome censorship.

The move would effectively implement legislation – known as the “feasibility review of emerging equipment for digital open media” (Freedom) act – that was introduced in Congress last month to address Iran’s internet-censoring practices but which has not yet been passed.

Members of Congress say the dire urgency of the situation in Iran calls for emergency measures to circumvent the legislative process.

They write: “The scale and intensity of these demonstrations, coupled with the regime’s use of force to violently quell peaceful protests and isolate the Iranian people from the outside world, warrant immediate attention.

“While Congress works to advance legislation like this through regular order, we are confident that the executive branch has the ability – and responsibility – to immediately begin interagency coordination, resume and leverage the Department of State’s collaboration with the Open Technology Fund, harness existing technologies like virtual private networks (VPNs), and fully assess emerging technologies such as direct-to-cell networks.

“Your strong support for measures like these are critical to helping the Iranian people bypass regime-controlled terrestrial communications infrastructure and providing them with a lifeline to the outside world at a time when the regime is cutting off access to traditional communication channels.”

The Freedom act was initially introduced last month by two House members, Dave Min, a California Democrat, and Claudia Tenney, a Republican from New York, and two senators, the Pennsylvania Republican Dave McCormick, and Jacky Rosen, a Democrat from Nevada.

It received the support of the National Union for Democracy in Iran, which said the regime was regularly using internet blackouts to silence dissent.

Human rights groups say about 2,500 people have been killed in confrontations that began on 28 December. Unconfirmed reports from inside Iran have estimated the death toll at 12,000.

Trump has vowed that “help is on its way” to Iranian protesters but has not been specific. He has also promised to take “very strong action” against the regime if it executes protesters. The authorities have responded to previous outbreaks of unrest by resorting to waves of executions.

Politico Pro

Inside Iran’s information blackout

Dana Nickel

Over a week into a near-total internet shutdown in Iran, Tehran is leveraging that isolation to amplify disinformation — and lawmakers warn that control over connectivity can mean control over the truth.

“These blackouts stifle the flow of information going in and out of Iran, leaving Iranians in the dark and protesters disconnected,” said Rep. Dave Min (D-Calif.) in a statement.

The latest: Nineteen members of Congress, including Min and Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), sent a letter to President Donald Trump on Wednesday, urging the White House to support “secure, resilient communications for the Iranian people.” The nationwide internet shutdown in Iran began on Jan. 8, restricting access to cell networks, mobile data and jamming satellite providers, such as Starlink.

The blackout comes a month after Min, Tenney and Sens. Dave McCormick (R-Pa.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) introduced legislation that would require the FCC and State Department to examine emerging technology to help Iranian citizens maintain access to outside information when the government pulls the plug — a common tactic in Tehran’s playbook.

The Iranian government has previously disrupted internet connection during periods of unrest, including for a week in 2019. Internet services were also halted in 2022 during demonstrations across Iran. And during the Iran-Israel conflict last summer, the government blocked access to the internet, leading to a boom of AI-generated slop and misinformation online.


CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE LEADS EFFORT TO BAN STOCK TRADING IN THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

(Washington, D.C.)—Today, Congressman Joe Morelle, top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, called out House Republicans for failing to adequately address corruption in our government. During a hearing of the Committee on Wednesday, Morelle denounced House Republicans’ new legislation that claims to curb insider trading but still allows Members of Congress, their families, and other top officials to profit from individual stock trading while in office.

“I strongly support a ban on federal officers—including Members of Congress, the President, the Vice President, and judges and justices of the federal judiciary—trading individual stocks. Sadly, this legislation does nothing of the sort,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “When politicians trade individual stocks, it sends a clear message to the public that Washington is looking out for itself, not for them. At a time when families are struggling with rising costs, Congress should not be protecting a system that lets elected officials get richer while everyday Americans fall behind.”

The legislation put forward by House Republicans does not ban stock trading by federal officials. Instead, it preserves loopholes that allow politicians and their families to continue benefiting financially while in power.

Some problems with House Republicans’ proposed legislation include:

Members of Congress can keep all the stocks they currently own, continue collecting dividends, and use those dividends to buy more stock.

Lawmakers can sell their stock holdings at any time while in office, potentially cashing in on years of gains.

Spouses and family members are still allowed to trade stocks on behalf of relatives, creating a major workaround that undermines the bill’s intent.

The bill does not stop the President, the Vice President, or other executive branch officials from trading securities for personal gain.

Judges and Supreme Court justices would still be allowed to own and trade stock in companies with cases before their courts.

During the hearing, Congressman Morelle and his Democratic colleagues offered amendments to close these loopholes and strengthen the bill, pushing for a real ban on stock trading by Members of Congress, the President, and the Supreme Court. Sadly, House Republicans voted them all down in Committee.

Video footage of Congressman Morelle’s opening remarks from the hearing are available here. The full hearing can be found here.

More information on Congressman Morelle’s work on ethics and government accountability can be found on the Committee on House Administration’s website here.

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Moskowitz, Ranking Member Raskin Lead Letter Demanding Jordan Investigate Blatant Abuse of DOJ Prosecutorial Power

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL-23) and Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee, and led Judiciary Democrats in sending a letter to Chairman Jim Jordan demanding he launch an investigation into the Department of Justice (DOJ) over its blatant abuse of prosecutorial power in conducting a sham investigation into the Chair of the Federal Reserve Board, Jerome Powell.

Earlier this week, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Columbia formally initiated a criminal inquiry into Chair Powell over renovations to the Federal Reserve Board’s historic building. This is a flagrant attempt by the DOJ to intimidate the Board into adjusting interest rates at the whim of Donald Trump and is the latest attack in a sustained public campaign to relinquish control of the central bank to the President.

“We demand that you exercise your authority as Chairman of our Committee to open an investigation into this blatant abuse of DOJ’s prosecutorial power. Surely, as the former Chairman of the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government, you recognize the urgent importance of congressional oversight to ensure that the DOJ is not being used to coerce the Federal Reserve—an independent agency—into artificially juicing the economy to benefit the President and his party ahead of the midterm elections,” wrote the Members.

The Trump Administration’s unprecedented, repeated assaults on the Board’s independence has included threats to illegally fire Chair Powell and Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook over unsubstantiated and bogus claims. The DOJ’s investigation is the latest attempt to bend the Board to the President’s will, and it is the responsibility of Chairman Jordan and the Judiciary Committee to investigate such corruption.

Executive interference and pressure to set interest rates based on political convenience rather than economic evidence and public interest results in inflation, stunted financial growth, increased unemployment, and erosion of public trust in financial institutions. It is for these reasons that Congress has insulated the Federal Reserve from politization for more than a century. Trump’s attacks on our country’s central bank are a transparent attempt to cover up his ruinous economic policies. These repeated attacks threaten financial stability and have already shaken confidence in U.S. monetary policy.

“Laudably, Chair Powell has pledged not to bow to these threats. But the American people deserve to know why their Justice Department is being used to intimidate the Chair of the Federal Reserve on behalf of a President who wants to use interest rates to cover up his disastrous tariffs and failed economic agenda. They deserve to know who authorized this investigation and whether any White House officials communicated with DOJ about Chair Powell prior to the investigation’s launch,” wrote the Members.

Judiciary Democrats are demanding that Chairman Jordan exercise his authority and investigate the unlawful coercion and abuse suffocating the Federal Reserve at the hands of the Department of Justice.


Moulton, Ansari Warn Appropriators: No More Funding for ICE Without Accountability and Reform

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Seth Moulton (MA-06) and Congresswoman Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) sent a letter to the House Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee making clear that they will oppose any funding bill that expands Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) resources without strict guardrails and enforceable reforms.

In the letter to Chairman Mark Amodei (NV-02) and Ranking Member Henry Cuellar (TX-28), the lawmakers cited a growing national pattern of illegal and abusive ICE practices—underscored by the murder of Renee Good—including the use of excessive force, prolonged detention in facilities not designed to hold people, denial of medical care and legal access, and a lack of basic transparency. Congressman Moulton and Congresswoman Ansari also raised serious concerns about ICE’s use of masked agents during civil enforcement actions and numerous examples of ICE detaining U.S. citizens.

“Congress cannot keep writing blank checks to an agency that repeatedly violates the law and actively harms its own citizens,” said Congressman Moulton. “ICE has shown over and over again that it cannot be trusted to follow the law and protect the American people. Until ICE stops harming—and in some cases, killing—U.S. citizens and others in its custody, Congress should not spend another federal dollar on this agency. Our power of the purse is one of the only tools we have left to force accountability, and we need to use it.”

“ICE is a rogue agency that Donald Trump is deploying to terrorize communities,” said Congresswoman Ansari. “We must not approve any additional funding for this Trump militia force that has lost the trust, credibility, and legitimacy in the eyes of the American public. Instead, we need accountability in place for ICE’s abuses, including the assault and murder of people on city streets and in detention facilities. I urge our appropriators to hold ICE and Donald Trump accountable for their crimes.”

Congressman Moulton and Congresswoman Ansari state that they will not vote for a Homeland Security Appropriations bill that does not:

Freeze ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations funding at or below Fiscal Year 2024 enacted levels. No increases above that level should be provided without strict conditions on demonstrated compliance with detention standards, civil rights protections, and transparency requirements.

Prohibit the use of ICE field offices and processing centers for overnight or multi-day detention. Congress should require that all individuals be transferred to compliant detention facilities within a fixed number of hours, with mandatory notification to their attorney of record and an identified family member prior to transfer.

Require ICE to issue and enforce a nationwide policy prohibiting the routine use of masks by agents during civil enforcement actions.

Reaffirm and strengthen language guaranteeing immediate access for Members of Congress and designated staff to any DHS facility used to detain or hold individuals, without advance notice or administrative delay.

Require regular public reporting on length of stay in field offices, medical staffing levels, complaints received, and corrective actions taken, disaggregated by facility.

Require ICE to publicly report, on a quarterly basis, all instances in which United States citizens or lawful permanent residents are stopped, detained, questioned, or held by ICE. Reports should include the duration of detention, the asserted basis for the action, how citizenship or lawful status was verified, whether force or restraints were used, and whether the individual was transferred or released.

Condition the obligation or expenditure of funds for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations on the full reinstatement and independent operation of ICE’s Office of Professional Responsibility and DHS oversight entities, including the Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties and the Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman. DHS should be required to certify to Congress that these offices are fully staffed, retain independent investigative authority, and may transmit findings directly to Congress without alteration, delay, or political interference.

The full letter can be found here.

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Vote Explainer — H.R. 7006, The Financial Services and General Government and National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The following is a statement from Congressman Seth Moulton (MA-06):

“On January 14, 2026, the House voted 341-79 on H.R. 7006, the Financial Services and General Government and National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act. This Appropriations package would fund agencies like the Treasury, State Department, Office of Management and Budget, and FBI. In the past, this appropriations package has funded USAID, which the Trump Administration has since shut down. I voted no on this legislation.

“I could not in good conscience vote for a State Department funding bill that ratified Donald Trump’s decision to decimate USAID. Of all of Trump and Elon Musk’s chaos, eliminating lifesaving humanitarian assistance to the poorest and sickest people around the world may be the deadliest and most damaging decision this Administration has made so far. Hundreds of thousands of people have already died because of the draconian cuts made to our foreign aid programs. We should not be silent about this.

“Also, when speaking in Detroit earlier this week President Trump threatened to defund all Democratic-led states with so-called “sanctuary cities”, including Massachusetts. Stripping entire states of federal funding just because he disagrees with certain cities’ policies would be completely illegal, and I fully expect that such a move would be blocked by the courts. In light of these actions, Democrats should not vote to fund Donald Trump’s administration as if Donald Trump were a normal president operating in good faith. This is not business as usual—and we must make clear to our states and cities that we will fight for them in Congress.

“I will continue to stand firm against this Administration’s worst abuses of the American people and the rule of law.”


Neal Statement on Trump’s Latest Health Care Failure

SPRINGFIELD, MA— Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement after the Trump Administration met the final day of Open Enrollment with the empty action of a fact sheet:

“Today’s announcement is more of the same bluster, with zero substance, that Republicans have been peddling since the inception of the ACA. Under Trump, hospitals are shuttering, premiums are soaring, everything from insulin to medical supplies costs more, yet CEOs are getting sweetheart deals. If Republicans were serious about lowering costs, the workable solution House Democrats sent to the Senate last week would already be law. Instead, they resort to flooding the zone with empty promises while the people are forced to pay more and get less.”

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Norcross, Kean Introduce SEPSIS Act to Strengthen National Effort to Combat Sepsis

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Representatives Donald Norcross (D-NJ) and Thomas Kean Jr. (R- NJ) introduced the Securing Enhanced Programs, Systems and Initiatives for Sepsis (SEPSIS) Act to strengthen national efforts to combat sepsis, a life-threatening condition that Congressman Norcross developed and fully recovered from last year.

“Last year, I experienced a medical emergency on an airplane and developed sepsis, a medical condition caused by a severe infection. Each year, 1.7 million people in the United States develop sepsis and it is the third leading cause of death in American hospitals. I was one of the lucky ones,” said Congressman Norcross. “I am here today because of the excellent doctors and nurses who saved my life, but too many families aren’t as lucky. With the SEPSIS Act, we can change that. We can save lives and reduce the devastating toll this condition has on our loved ones.”

“Sepsis can impact anyone – young or old, sick or healthy – and preventing deaths depends on early recognition and timely intervention,” said Congressman Kean. “Today, Congressman Norcross and I are introducing this bipartisan legislation to strengthen sepsis care through expanded education, national information-sharing on best practices, and improved pediatric data collection. New Jersey has long been a leader in the fight against sepsis, and I am grateful to partner with a fellow member of our state’s delegation to bring this critical effort to the federal level.”

“Sepsis is a devastating disease which unjustly claims the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans each year which would be preventable with more early detection. I am grateful for my dear friends Ciaran and Orlaith Staunton from New York who went through a terrible tragedy, losing their 12-year-old son Rory to sepsis a decade ago and have turned their profound suffering into action so that hopefully no family has to experience the same pain,” said Senator Schumer. “I’ve long fought aside them and am proud the SEPSIS Act would help raise awareness and boost federal research funding for this devastating condition. The federal government must continue to bring more awareness and research to combatting this ruinous condition and save lives.”

“This bipartisan bill would help provide hospitals and health care professionals with the training and data they need to detect and treat sepsis earlier, so that fewer families lose loved ones to this devastating condition,” said Senator Collins.

“We know that early detection and treatment of sepsis is key to saving someone’s life,” said Senator Kim. “We can improve this through better coordination and education. I hope we can come together on this bill to prevent further tragedy and save families from such unbearable loss.”

“We thank Congressman Norcross and Congressman Kean for their unwavering leadership in championing this lifesaving sepsis legislation,” said Ciaran and Orlaith Staunton, founders of END SEPSIS, The Legacy of Rory Staunton. “Thirteen years ago, sepsis claimed the life of our 12-year-old son, Rory. That heartbreak changed our lives forever-and it fuels our fight today. Today, sepsis still takes hundreds of thousands of lives each year while costing our healthcare system $64 billion annually. This bill is a critical step toward making early detection, timely treatment, and accountability the national standard—so preventable sepsis deaths become the exception, not the rule. Our son Rory loved helping people, lifting others up whenever he could. In this moment, he is still lifting us all, urging us to fight harder and do better.”

“New Jersey hospitals have made significant investments in evidence-based protocols, staff training and quality improvement to identify and treat sepsis as early as possible. Continued attention to sepsis – such as this important legislation – is critical to supporting hospitals’ ongoing efforts to save lives,” said Cathy Bennett, NJHA President and CEO.

The SEPSIS Act directs the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to dedicate staff and resources to sepsis, create an education program to help hospitals adopt best practices for prevention and treatment, and provide Congress with updates on progress toward reducing deaths and complications. The bill also calls for the development of a national outcome measure and creates a recognition program to highlight hospitals with effective prevention and treatment efforts.

Sepsis is the body’s extreme reaction to infection and is one of the leading causes of death in hospitals, killing more than 350,000 Americans each year and costing the health care system billions.

In April 2025, Norcross was hospitalized with a gallbladder infection that developed into sepsis, leaving him in critical condition. He has since made a full recovery, but his experience highlighted the urgent need for more national attention on sepsis prevention and treatment.

Read the one-pager here.

Read the full bill text here.

Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Susan Collins (R-ME), and Andy Kim (D-NJ) joined Representatives Donald Norcross (D-NJ) and Tom Kean Jr. (R-NJ) in introducing the legislation in the Senate.

The bill is supported by END Sepsis Inc., Sepsis Alliance, American Hospital Association, Federation of American Hospitals, Infectious Diseases Society of America, Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society, New Jersey Hospital Association, and Society of Healthcare Epidemiology of America.

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Norton Statement on House Passage of D.C. Appropriations Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) said that although she was able to get 17 out of 20 anti-D.C. provisions stripped from the fiscal year 2027 (FY 27) D.C. appropriations bill passed by the House last night, the remaining three provisions that impose policies on D.C. without its consent demonstrate the need for D.C. statehood so the 700,000 D.C. residents have the same decision-making power over their own local policies that residents of the states enjoy.

Norton secured many victories for D.C. in the bill. Importantly, the version passed by the House provides $40 million for the D.C. Tuition Assistance Grant Program (DCTAG), increases the DCTAG annual award from $10,000 to $15,000, and increases the lifetime award from $50,000 to $75,000.

Norton secured the following victories:

The bill provides $40 million for DCTAG, an increase in the annual DCTAG award from $10,000 to $15,000, and an increase in the lifetime DCTAG award from $50,000 to $75,000.

The bill would provide $90 million for emergency planning and security costs related to the federal presence in D.C.

The bill exempts D.C. from federal government shutdowns in FY 2027.

The bill provides $8 million for D.C. Water for ongoing work to control flooding in D.C. and to clean up the Anacostia and Potomac Rivers and Rock Creek Park.

The bill provides $4 million to combat HIV/AIDS in D.C.

The bill provides $600,000 for the Major General David F. Wherley, Jr. District of Columbia National Guard Retention and College Access Program.

The bill provides $53 million for the D.C. Public Defender Service, an entity established by Congress to represent indigent defendants in criminal cases in the local D.C. courts.

The bill provides $46 million for the Defender Service, which pays private lawyers to represent indigent clients in both criminal and civil matters in the local D.C. courts.

Norton expressed disappointment that the bill would prohibit the District from spending its own local funds on abortion services for low-income women and on recreational marijuana commercialization. Norton was also disappointed that the bill devotes substantial funding to the private school voucher program that Congress imposed on the District. The program has failed to improve academic achievement, as measured by math and reading test scores. The D.C. voucher program is the only federally funded voucher program in the U.S.

“While I was able to get 17 of the 20 anti-D.C. provisions that were present in the original House version stripped from this bill and secure major investments for District residents, including a historic increase in D.C. Tuition Assistance Grants, the remaining riders once again impose policies on D.C. without its consent.

“As long as Congress can override the will of 700,000 D.C. residents on matters as personal and local as reproductive health and local governance, the case for D.C. statehood remains as urgent and undeniable as ever.”

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Olszewski, Moylan Introduce Bipartisan Effort to Fast-Track College Completion and Lower Costs

The fast-track grant program would expand access to Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and dual-enrollment courses, enabling students to begin earning college credits earlier. The legislation would also require public colleges and universities to accept credits earned through these programs, streamlining the transfer process and preventing students from paying twice for the same coursework.

“Americans are asking policymakers to do everything we can to lower costs, and the soaring price of education is no exception,” said Congressman Olszewski, a first-generation college graduate. “I’m proud to lead this bipartisan, bicameral effort to help more students earn college credits while still in high school — cutting the cost of college and certifications, speeding time to degree, and helping young people enter the workforce sooner.”

“For families on Guam and across the country, the cost of college can be the difference between opportunity and debt,” said Congressman Moylan. “This bipartisan bill helps students earn college credits earlier, lowers the overall cost of a degree, and moves young people into the workforce faster. It’s a commonsense solution that saves families money while strengthening our future workforce.”

The bill is the companion to bipartisan legislation introduced last month by U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Todd Young (R-IN) in their respective chambers. Specifically, the Fast Track To and Through College Act would:

Expand enrollment in AP, IB, and dual-enrollment courses, potentially reducing degree or credential completion time by up to one year;

Require public colleges and universities to accept credits earned through approved early-college programs; and

Allow Pell Grants to cover dual-enrollment costs for low-income students in states participating in the fast-track grant program.

The legislation is endorsed by the Association for Career and Technical Education as well as the Maryland Association of Community Colleges.

“ACTE is proud to support the Fast Track to and Through College Act, which would expand access to high-quality dual enrollment opportunities and allow more students to earn college credit while still in high school,” said LeAnn Curry, ACTE Executive Director. “By incentivizing states to scale these pathways, this legislation will help lower costs for learners and improve outcomes for students pursuing postsecondary education. ACTE appreciates Reps. Olszewski and Moylan for their leadership in advancing this important issue.”

"Opportunities for high school students to earn college credit are an evidence-based strategy that reduces time to degree and helps more students achieve their academic and career goals,” said Dr. Brad Phillips, Executive Director, MACC. “This supports local, state, and national economies by preparing learners sooner to enter the workforce. The Fast Track to and Through College Act would provide the support needed to expand dual enrollment, particularly for those who are currently unable to participate. This much-needed legislation would further catalyze the educational innovations our nation needs now.”


Rep. Panetta Statement Calling for Resignation, Removal, and Impeachment of Homeland Security Advisor Stephen Miller and DHS leadership

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

"The recent deadly shootings of people in communities across the country by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers reveal a failure in leadership at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and in this Administration. The horrific shooting death of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis was unnecessary, but predictable based on the unprofessionalism and lack of training that appears to pervade the ranks of ICE and CBP.

"The recent shootings are reported to stem from the rushed implementation by DHS of President Trump's deportation policy, that is created and driven by Homeland Security Advisor Stephen Miller. That massive immigration crackdown, along with the current injection of $165 billion in funding for DHS from the purely partisan One Big Beautiful Bill Act is not only growing the ranks of ICE and CBP officers, but also pushing them through a reduced training program of 47 days and pushing them away from the border and into urban and suburban settings across the nation.

"The ICE and CBP officers appear to be untrained for that environment, and unprofessional when it comes to confrontations with people and protestors. DHS Secretary Noem is responsible for implementing the Administration's deportation policy and the standards and oversight that govern ICE and CBP operations. However, based on reporting and what we've seen, it appears that the ranks of ICE and CBP are filled with substandard officers that are poorly trained, sheltered from the consequences of their actions, and empowered to behave recklessly and with impunity. Moreover, and as we experienced after the shooting in Minneapolis, the Administration, including President Trump, provides irresponsible defenses and explanations for this ineptitude, which appear to normalize brutality, violence, and lawlessness, rather than accountability and transparency. That is why I continue to call for accountability through a full independent investigation into the shootings of people by ICE and CBP officers, including what transpired in Minnesota.

"Moreover, as the architect and implementor of this overreaching, failed, and dangerous deportation policy that makes our communities less safe, Stephen Miller, as well as the DHS Secretary, must resign or be removed from their positions. If President Trump refuses to remove these individuals from his Administration, the House and Senate must act accordingly. I support impeachment proceedings based on the accountability investigation that is currently being conducted by the House Committee on Homeland Security and being led by Democratic ranking member Bennie Thompson. I also support an investigation by the House Committee on Judiciary led by Democratic ranking member Jamie Raskin into the DHS Secretary’s management. Such investigations will help provide the foundation and facts upon which we could properly begin formal impeachment proceedings. Unfortunately, the Republican Majority and chairmen of those two committees will not act. Moreover, for an impeachment to succeed it must garner a majority of votes in the Republican-led House of Representatives to adopt articles of impeachment and then get sent to the Republican-led Senate for final adjudication.

"Despite the burdens that we face with this Republican led Congress and Senate, we must stand together and act to try to ensure that the Trump Administration is held accountable. That is why I call on Congress to act now to restrain Stephen Miller and DHS leadership and stop the recklessness and violence by ICE and CBP. Now more than ever, Democrats and Republicans in Congress must fulfill our Constitutional responsibilities with proper oversight to check this executive branch and to ensure transparency, accountability, and safety in our communities."


Pappas, Goodlander Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Address Chronic Staffing Shortages at Federal Prisons

Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (NH-02) are leading bipartisan legislation in the House of Representatives to address persistent staffing shortages at federal prisons across the country, including at FCI Berlin in New Hampshire. The Federal Correctional Officer Paycheck Protection Act would provide a 35% special salary rate increase for federal correctional officers nationwide. The legislation is led in the U.S. Senate by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and David McCormick (R-PA). The legislation was introduced in the House alongside Dan Goldman (NY-10) and Congressman Rob Bresnahan (PA-08).

The bill is designed to boost recruitment and retention, reduce excessive mandatory overtime and burnout, enhance safety for officers and incarcerated individuals, and strengthen operations across the Bureau of Prisons.

“Chronic staffing shortages at federal prisons risk the safety of the staff, incarcerated individuals, and communities. This bipartisan legislation would reinstate pay incentives that the Trump Administration revoked to help recruitment and retention efforts and ensure prisons have the personnel needed,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “I’ll continue working to support dedicated public employees who show up every day for New Hampshire.”

“Our federal correctional officers in Berlin have some of the toughest jobs and most important jobs in New Hampshire. But year after year, they have been asked to do more and more with less and less — and it’s just not right,” said Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander. “Our bipartisan bill is about ensuring fair pay for hardworking Granite Staters and ensuring our federal prison is properly staffed with the professional and well-trained workforce it needs to operate safely and justly.”

The Bureau of Prisons (BOP) has faced severe staffing shortages for years that have strained facilities nationwide. A February 2024 report from the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General found that reliance on augmentation and mandatory overtime has overburdened staff and may contribute to fatigue, sleep deprivation, and decreased vigilance—raising serious safety concerns.

Specifically, the Federal Correctional Officer Paycheck Protection Act would:

Enact a special rate of pay for federal correctional officers to address chronic recruitment and retention challenges

Establish a 35% increase to the General Schedule (GS) pay scale for correctional officers

Apply the enhanced pay rate to officers with custodial responsibilities, including GS, GL law enforcement officers, and eligible prevailing-rate employees

Include a sunset provision requiring the DOJ Inspector General to evaluate whether BOP has made measurable progress in reducing augmentation and excessive mandatory overtime; if progress is achieved, the special pay rate would remain in place, with findings reported to Congress


Pappas Provisions to Strengthen Postal Service Pass House of Representatives

Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), a founding member of the Congressional Postal Service Caucus, announced that three of his provisions to strengthen the United States Postal Service (USPS) passed the House of Representatives as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) report. The language would address top issues impacting mail delivery for rural communities, including USPS plans to limit the number of times mail is picked up from rural post offices, to consolidate processing facilities, and to close local post offices.

“The U.S. Postal Service provides an essential public service, and chronic mail delays impact everything from people’s health to the success of our small businesses,” said Congressman Pappas. “USPS must improve service, not make it worse. I fought for these provisions to prevent harmful facility downsizing and improve and safeguard mail service for communities across New Hampshire, and I’m glad that they have passed the House. I’ll continue to support efforts that strengthen mail service and delivery.”

Specifically, Pappas’s provisions that passed in the FSGG report are:

A recommendation that the USPS reevaluate its Regional Transportation Optimization (RTO) plan to ensure that rural Americans do not experience further mail delays. The RTO plan limits the number of times mail is picked up from post offices more than fifty miles away from Regional Processing and Distribution Centers.

A recommendation that the USPS halt any realignment, consolidation, or partial consolidation of processing or logistics facilities that provide services to postal districts that at any point over the past calendar year have failed to meet 93 percent on-time delivery for two-day single-piece First Class mail and 90.3 percent on-time delivery for three-to-five-day First Class mail.

A recommendation that the USPS halt any plans to close any post office if that post office serves more than 15,000 people or if there is not another post office within 15 miles.

In 2024, in response to USPS’s announcement that it planned to close the Manchester USPS Processing and Distribution Center, Pappas worked alongside a bipartisan group of his House colleagues and the New Hampshire delegation to call on then United States Postmaster General Louis DeJoy to reverse course on these plans. Heeding Pappas and his colleagues' calls, USPS paused the implementation of proposed changes to the Manchester facility in May 2024.

Background:

Congressman Pappas is a strong advocate for the U.S. Postal Service and ensuring Granite Staters receive fast, reliable mail and package delivery. He has introduced the bipartisan Postal Suspension Transparency Act to bring transparency to the postal emergency suspension process and ensure access to mail during any temporary post office closure. Earlier this year, he helped introduce the bipartisan Protect Postal Performance Act to prevent USPS from downsizing facilities in underserved areas, provide oversight over modifications to delivery schedules, and increase public transparency. He has also consistently pushed for passage of the bipartisan Porch Pirates Act, which would increase penalties for package theft by so-called ‘porch pirates.’


WITH DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY OPENING PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD ON PROPOSED CHESTER ICE FACILITY, CONGRESSMAN PAT RYAN CALLS ON ENTIRE HUDSON VALLEY COMMUNITY TO MAKE THEIR VOICES HEARD, SIGN PETITION

The Washington Post reported that a warehouse in Chester, NY would be part of a larger ICE plan to house 80,000 immigrants in warehouses across the country

Congressman Pat Ryan immediately sounded the alarm and released a petition opposing the proposal; petition already has thousands of signers

Ryan is encouraging the Hudson Valley community to show up in force and sign on to the effort to stop the proposed Chester facility; Ryan will submit anonymized results to DHS as public comment before their January 16th deadline

CHESTER, NY – Congressman Pat Ryan is escalating his push and rallying the Hudson Valley community to stop the opening of a proposed ICE facility in Orange County. Ryan is encouraging the Hudson Valley community to show up in force and sign on to the effort to stop the proposed Chester facility. Ryan will submit anonymized results to DHS as public comment before their January 16th deadline.

The proposed facility would use a vacant warehouse in Chester, NY as part of a larger Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) plan to house 80,000 migrants in warehouses nationwide. Ryan and bipartisan local leaders, receiving no warning or information from the Administration, immediately sounded the alarm.

“In just two days, thousands of members of our community have shown up in force with a clear message for this Administration – and we’re just getting started,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “We’re seeing law-abiding members of our community snatched off the streets with no due process, and whether that’s at facilities in NY or across the country, we cannot accept it.. So I’m asking every member of our community to show DHS and Kristi Noem what we’re made of – it’s time to get loud as we stand together on the side of justice, accountability, and humanity.”

Community members are encouraged to sign this petition in opposition to the proposed facility.

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Rep. Pettersen Hosts Telephone Town Hall, Hears from Nearly 8,000 Coloradans about Federal Cuts, Health Care, & More

WASHINGTON – Last night, U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) hosted a telephone town hall with constituents across Colorado’s 7th Congressional District, giving nearly 8,000 Coloradans the opportunity to ask questions, share their concerns, and hear directly from Rep. Pettersen about the issues impacting their families and communities.

During the call, Rep. Pettersen spoke about fighting back against the Trump administration, protecting access to affordable health care, reining in the actions of ICE, and standing up for the rights and safety of Coloradans.

“Nearly 8,000 Coloradans took the time to call in because they’re worried about their families, their health care, and the direction our country is headed,” said Rep. Pettersen. “As Trump escalates attacks on Colorado and unlawfully withholds critical funding, sends ICE into our state to terrorize communities, and threatens our NATO allies abroad — I want people to know that we are here to support them in every way we can and they are not alone. I will continue to fight back against the cruelty and lawlessness of this Administration and also work to find common ground with my colleagues where I can. It is going to be a very tough road ahead but we are going to get through it together.”

Pettersen continued, “Thank you to everyone who joined, to those who are stepping up to support your neighbors and community in need, and thank you for caring about the future of our country. I know that you aren’t going to give up on the country we love, and I promise to continue to fight alongside you.”

Since coming to Congress, Pettersen has been a champion for working families and children in Colorado. As a mom of two, she has pushed back against Trump’s policies that would increase costs for child care, health care, and other basic necessities for families.

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For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland

January 15, 2026 202-808-6129

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT ANNOUNCES REVERSAL OF TERMINATION OF ESSENTIAL HEALTH AND MENTAL HEALTH GRANTS

Washington, D.C.— Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (D-USVI) today announced the successful reinstatement of approximately 2,000 health and mental health service grants totaling roughly $2 billion nationwide. The reversal follows sustained pressure from Members of Congress, including the Congresswoman, who advocated with the Trump Administration successful explaining the chaotic and harmful termination of these critical programs.

Earlier this week, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), issued abrupt grant termination letters without warning, which threw communities nationwide into crisis and threatened vital programs that serve the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Virgin Islands organizations affected by the Administration's reckless decision include the University of the Virgin Islands, the Access to Racial & Cultural Health Institute, Inc., and The Village – VI Partners in Recovery. These organizations provide essential substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and community health programs on which thousands of Virgin Islanders rely.

"I want to thank the University of the Virgin Islands, the Access to Racial & Cultural Health Institute, and The Village – VI Partners in Recovery for contacting my office about their grant termination letters,” said Congresswoman Plaskett. “After national outrage and advocacy from Members of Congress—during which we made clear the impact of the cuts to vulnerable communities to be abandoned without warning or justification—HHS reversed this decision. I am pleased to share that HHS has begun to issue the grant reinstatement letters, and these vital health services will continue.”

"This victory demonstrates what we can accomplish when we stand together and advocate respectfully but strongly to deter policies that harm our most vulnerable neighbors," Congresswoman Plaskett continued. “We will remain vigilant and continue to fight for the health and well-being of Virgin Islanders."

The reinstated grants support essential services that include substance abuse treatment programs, mental health counseling, suicide prevention initiatives, and community health education throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands.