Press Releases

Rep. Aguilar Highlights Impact of the Republican Health Care Crisis on the Inland Empire

House Democrats led an effort to restore the Affordable Care Act tax credits and lower health care costs, but Senate Republicans have refused to vote on the bipartisan bill

Rep. Pete Aguilar (CA-33) held a press conference at the Unicare Community Health Center in San Bernardino to highlight the impact of the Republican health care crisis on the Inland Empire and to call on Donald Trump and Senate Republicans to immediately restore the expired Affordable Care Act tax credits.

Almost two million Californians have seen their monthly health insurance premiums skyrocket after Donald Trump and Republicans failed to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits by December 31, 2025. In California’s 33rd Congressional District, the number of new enrollees in Covered California, California’s Affordable Care Act marketplace, has decreased by 35 percent compared to last year due in part to rising costs. That’s why House Democrats are leading the effort to restore the Affordable Care Act tax credits and lower health care premiums for 21,000 residents of California’s 33rd Congressional District and more than 1.7 million Californians statewide. You can watch the full video of the press conference here.

“Right now, tens of thousands of people in my district have seen their monthly insurance premiums go up and their health care become too expensive because Donald Trump and Republicans let the Affordable Care Act tax credits expire,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “I’ve heard from countless people in our community who are suffering right now because of skyrocketing costs and are having to decide between paying for rent, groceries and utilities, or their health care. House Democrats delivered a real path forward to restore these vital tax credits and lower health insurance costs for hardworking people, but Senate Republicans have refused to vote on this bipartisan legislation. The American people can’t afford any more delays. It’s time for Trump and Republicans to work with Democrats to restore the Affordable Care Act tax credits and ensure that working families can get the affordable, quality health care that they need.”

“The Affordable Care Act has been instrumental in helping our patients access consistent, affordable and high-quality health care,” said Kelly Vo, Executive Vice President, Unicare Community Health Center. “However, the recent cuts to the ACA threaten the practice of our community that we have made by putting affordable coverage out of reach for many individuals and families. That is why continued support and advocacy for the ACA are so important.”

“As a physician, I’m seeing families lose their health insurance, not because they don’t work hard, but because they fall into an impossible gap,” said Dr. Cameo Carter, MD, Inland Empire Resident and Covered California Enrollee. “They make too much to qualify for assistance, but far too little to afford the soaring premiums of traditional insurance plans. The ACA premium credits allowed many of these families to stay insured. Without them, they are left with no choice but to go without coverage, living with constant anxiety about what will happen if someone in their family gets seriously ill or needs medication or diagnostic testing they simply can’t afford. I have patients who are delaying or forgoing necessary medical treatments because the cost is prohibitive. These have become daily conversations in my exam rooms, deciding which medication can wait, which test might be postponed. My call to action is simple and urgent: we need Congress to extend the ACA premium credits and protect affordable access to health care, for working families, for small businesses, and for the communities that depend on them.”


Alford Introduces Resolution Honoring President Trump’s Historic Greenland Deal

Today, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) introduced a resolution honoring President Donald J. Trump for securing a historic strategic agreement establishing permanent United States sovereignty and control over critical military installations in Greenland, strengthening Arctic security, and countering malign Russian and Chinese influence.

Read the text of the resolution here.

“President Trump has once again displayed the Art of the Deal on the world stage,” said Congressman Alford. “The historic Greenland accord will deliver a new era of global security in the Arctic. By securing this deal to deter Russian and Chinese aggression through diplomacy, rather than force, this administration is showing America First does not mean America alone. I’m proud to introduce this resolution to recognize President’s steadfast leadership and this extraordinary accomplishment.”

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IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: The African American News & Issues (AFRAM) article, titled “Rep. Al Green Fights for TSA Collective Bargaining Agreement and Warns Courts’ Orders Must Be Followed."

The African American News & Issues (AFRAM) article below, titled “Rep. Al Green Fights for TSA Collective Bargaining Agreement and Warns Courts’ Orders Must Be Followed,” speaks for itself.

You can access the article by clicking the link here.


Congressman Al Green’s Statement Condemning the Attack on Congresswoman Ilhan Omar

(Houston, TX)—Today, Congressman Al Green released the following statement condemning the recent attack on Congresswoman Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, warning that the escalating actions and rhetoric of the DHS and ICE under the Trump administration have created a dangerous climate that threatens public safety and democratic norms. Congressman Green addressed this issue on the floor of the House on January 9, 2026, wherein he stated that he fears for the lives of the American people and his own. You can access his remarks by clicking here.

Congressman Al Green stated, “I strongly condemn the attack on Congresswoman Omar. The harmful policies and rhetoric stemming from ICE and the DHS under the Trump administration, which continues to disseminate falsehoods that fuel hatred and foster invidious discrimination, have resulted in chaos on our streets and multiple deaths. This escalation in harmful conduct and rhetoric has resulted in a Member of Congress being physically attacked. Violence is unacceptable, and federal agencies, as well as the President, must be held accountable when their actions and rhetoric endanger lives and undermine our democracy.”


Amo Leads Push for Transparency on Brown University Shooting

Providence, RI – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI), a member of the Congressional Gun Violence Prevention Taskforce, who represents Brown University in Congress, led 32 of his colleagues calling for a Congressional briefing from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) on the status of the investigation into the tragic December 13, 2025 mass shooting at Brown University.

The Members write in a letter to FBI Director Kash Patel and ATF Acting Director Daniel P. Driscoll:

“We write concerning the tragic mass shooting at Brown University on December 13, 2025, where two students were murdered and nine were wounded. Thanks to the hard work of local, state, and federal law enforcement, including the Boston Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the individual responsible for this heinous crime has been identified.”

“On behalf of our constituents, we request that appropriate representatives from the FBI and ATF provide us with a briefing. We seek to learn more about developments in the case, including how the individual responsible for this crime obtained a firearm and other details relevant to our oversight responsibilities.”

The letter was signed by Representatives Gabe Amo (RI-01), Jake Auchincloss (MA-04), Donald Beyer (VA-08), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Gilbert Cisneros (CA-31), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-11), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Daniel Goldman (NY-10), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Robin Kelly (NY-26), Timothy Kennedy (NY-26), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), George Latimer (NY-16), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Doris Matsui (CA-07), Lucy McBath (GA-06), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), James McGovern (MA-02), Dave Min (CA-47), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Robert Scott (VA-03), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Lori Trahan (MA-o3), and James Walkinshaw (VA-11)

The full letter can be found HERE.

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Barr Announces $1 Million in Federal Funds to Modernize Lancaster Wastewater System

Lancaster, KY— U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY-06) announced $1,000,000 in federal funding to support wastewater system improvements for the City of Lancaster. Barr secured the funding through the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026. He voted for the appropriations package earlier this month and President Trump recently signed the funding bill into law.

This project will modernize Lancaster’s wastewater collection system, alleviate overloading in critical portions of the network, and take failing pump stations offline. These improvements will prepare the city for significant economic growth on the northwest side of town, ensuring the city’s infrastructure can support new development while maintaining safe and reliable wastewater services.

“Thanks to President Trump signing this funding into law, Lancaster is getting the investment it needs to modernize its wastewater system and support future growth,” said Congressman Barr. “I fought to secure this funding because infrastructure matters, jobs matter, and Kentucky communities deserve results.”

City officials have emphasized the importance of the project to address aging infrastructure and plan for future development. Once completed, the upgrades will reduce system failures, improve service reliability, and support the city’s long-term growth and economic development goals.

“Congressman Barr didn’t just support this project — he made it a priority,” said Judge/Executive Chris Elleman. “Because of his leadership, Lancaster is receiving the funding needed to fix aging infrastructure, take failing pump stations offline, and prepare our community for future development.”

“We are extremely thankful to Congressman Barr for his leadership and support in securing this funding,” said Lancaster Mayor Michael Gaffney. “This project will modernize our wastewater system, take failing pump stations offline, and position our city for future growth, benefiting residents and businesses alike.”

“This is great news for Lancaster, and I appreciate the work Congressman Barr put into making this happen. Water and wastewater infrastructure is a major priority for our area and this funding will go a long way towards keeping sewer and wastewater services safe and reliable,” said Kentucky Speaker Pro Tempore David Meade (R-KY-80).

“Congressman Barr's unwavering commitment to his constituents is exemplified by his advocacy for infrastructure projects that drive economic development, promote health and safety, and improve the overall quality of life for all communities he represents, both urban and rural,” said Jeff VanHook, Executive Director of the RGL Regional Industrial Authority.

“Lancaster-Garrard County expresses its sincere appreciation for Congressman Barr's efforts in securing these funds,” said Anthony Roy, Chairman of the Industrial Development Authority. “Congressman Barr's support for Mayor Gaffney's forward-thinking approach to infrastructure improvements is a testament to his dedication to a better future for Lancaster/Garrard County. Over the past several months, the IDA Board, Mayor Gaffney, and Judge Elleman have engaged in discussions regarding the necessity of replacing the two oldest pumping stations with new ones and replacing approximately 10,000 feet of old clay sewer line with new PVC. This will enable the county to prepare for future growth opportunities once the bypass is complete and sewer services are expanded into northern Garrard County. We are fortunate to have the support of Congressman Barr aligned with Judge Elleman, Mayor Gaffney, and the members of the IDA board, whose vision for expanding and improving the wastewater system will provide a great opportunity to attract more businesses to Garrard County in the future.”

The project reflects a commitment to long-term infrastructure improvement, economic development, and public health, ensuring Lancaster is prepared for growth while maintaining reliable services for all residents.


Bean Celebrates 2026’s National School Choice Week

WASHINGTON—In celebration of National School Choice Week, U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) visited students in Nassau County to spotlight the educational excellence in Northeast Florida.

During his visit to Yulee High School, Congressman Bean met with AP Government students to discuss the role of Congress and the interaction among the three branches of government. The conversation sparked a lively Q&A, allowing students to engage directly with Congressman Bean about the lawmaking process and to hear firsthand insights into serving in the United States House of Representatives.

After his school visit, Congressman Bean said, “Floridians know that one size does not fit all, and they want individual choice. Our kids’ education should be no different. That’s why I’m fighting to empower parents to make the best decisions for their children and give them the freedom to choose a school that meets their individual needs. As a proud parent of three, I know that more freedom leads to more opportunity, and this is especially true in the classroom.”

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

This year marks the 16th anniversary of National School Choice Week.

Congressman Bean joined his colleagues to introduce a resolution designating the week of January 25 through January 31, as “National School Choice Week.” This resolution spotlights the need to expand education freedom and choice nationwide.

In addition to these efforts, the Working Families Tax Cut enacted last year includes several provisions that expand educational opportunity and flexibility for families across the country. Key provisions include:

Expanded K–12 Scholarship Incentives: Encourages greater private investment in scholarship programs that help working‑class families access the school that best meets their child’s needs.

Enhanced 529 Savings Plan Flexibility: Allows families to use 529 funds for a broader range of qualified educational expenses, giving parents more control over how they plan and pay for their child’s education.

Support for Student Loan Repayment: Continues tax‑advantaged treatment for employer‑assisted student loan repayment programs, helping employees manage education costs and reduce debt.

Recognition of Alternative Pathways: Ensures tax benefits apply to individuals pursuing trade schools, apprenticeships, and other non‑traditional postsecondary options—broadening opportunity beyond four‑year degrees.

During the 118th Congress, as the Chairman of the Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education Subcommittee, Congressman Bean proudly voted in favor of H.R. 5, the Parents Bill of Rights. Additionally, he chaired a subcommittee hearing examining how universal school choice empowers parents to choose the best educational opportunity to match their child’s unique needs and help them thrive academically.

To view the resolution, click HERE.

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Rep. Bera Signs Impeachment Articles Against DHS Secretary Kristi Noem

SACRAMENTO COUNTY, CA — Today, U.S. Representative Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06) released a statement after cosponsoring articles of impeachment against Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem:

“Under Secretary Noem’s watch, we have witnessed federal agents carry out warrantless raids, detain U.S. citizens without cause, and use deadly force unjustifiably on the streets of American cities.

"Rather than take responsibility and pursue accountability, Secretary Noem has repeatedly lied to the American people and obstructed comprehensive and transparent investigations from taking place.

“President Trump has shown no willingness to fire Secretary Noem. That leaves Congress with no choice but to act. That is why I am sponsoring articles of impeachment against Secretary Noem.

“The Department of Homeland Security was created to keep Americans safe. Secretary Noem has turned it into an agency that millions now fear. We must restore leadership at DHS that respects the Constitution, due process, and the rule of law.”

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Bresnahan Announces Finalized Deal Keeping Hospitals Open

SCRANTON, PA: Today, U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (PA-08) announced the finalization and approval of the change of ownership of Regional Hospital of Scranton, Moses Taylor Hospital, and Wilkes-Barre General to Tenor Health from their current owner, Commonwealth Health. The approval comes after a months-long negotiation to keep the hospitals open.

“From day one, our top priority has been protecting continuity of care in Northeastern Pennsylvania by keeping our hospitals open and serving patients,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “Today, we received confirmation that the ownership change allowing Tenor Health to assume control of Regional Hospital of Scranton, Moses Taylor Hospital, and Wilkes-Barre General has been officially approved. After months of sustained negotiations and keeping all parties at the table, we’ve reached the finish line. This outcome reflects the dedication and collaboration of local, state, and community partners who came together to support patients, families, and the healthcare workers who serve them every day.”

“Tenor Health Foundation is in receipt of the approval from the PA Department of Health for the acquisition of Regional Hospital of Scranton, Moses Taylor Hospital and Wilkes Barre General Hospital. We thank the Department for its review and thank the Shapiro Administration for their oversight in the process,” said Radha Savitala, CEO of Tenor Health.“Congressman Bresnahan was relentless in his efforts to ensure access to healthcare in the region remains strong and Representative Bridget Kosierowski was instrumental in getting the approval completed for her communities. We are humbled by support of everyone involved and look forward to providing care in Northeast Pennsylvania.”

“This approval by the Department of Health reflects what can be accomplished when we work together with a shared goal of protecting patients and preserving jobs,” said State Representative Bridget Kosierowski (114th). “From the very beginning, my focus has been clear: safeguarding the healthcare workforce and ensuring continuity of care for the people of Northeastern Pennsylvania. I will continue to be supportive in any way I can as Tenor moves forward, and I look forward to working collaboratively to ensure these facilities remain strong and responsive to community needs.”

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Carter's leadership brings $5 million to widen I-16 in Georgia

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today announced $5 million in funding to support the widening of Interstate 16 (I-16) from four to six lanes in Chatham, Effingham, and Bryan counties as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026.

“This is a critical investment in the future of Georgia’s Coastal Empire,” said Rep. Carter. “As freight traffic continues to grow alongside the Port of Savannah—the fastest-growing gateway in the nation—this funding will help deliver real improvements for the families, workers, and commuters who rely on this corridor every day. Expanding I-16 from four to six lanes will strengthen a nationally significant freight corridor, improve safety and mobility, and ensure our transportation infrastructure keeps pace with unprecedented port and industrial growth across Chatham, Effingham, and Bryan Counties.”

“Widening I-16 from four to six lanes is a critical investment in Georgia’s transportation network and economic future. Sections of the corridor currently serve more than 50,000 vehicles daily, with large trucks accounting for over 20% of those vehicles, said Georgia Department of Transportation Commissioner Russell McMurry. This vital freight link connects Georgia’s ports to markets across the nation. The added capacity will improve safety and reliability, cut anticipated delays by more than half, and support continued regional growth.”


ICYMI: Carter introduces resolution praising DOJ for prosecuting Minnesota church insurrectionists

EXCLUSIVE: Rep. Buddy Carter to introduce resolution praising Trump DOJ for prosecuting “insurrectionists” that stormed Minnesota church service

By: Matthew Foldi

With all eyes on Minnesota, Rep. Buddy Carter (R., Ga.) plans to introduce a resolution, obtained exclusively by the Washington Reporter, that reaffirms the constitutional rights of Americans to “religious freedom, and commending the Department of Justice for its prompt investigation” into a series of left-wing agitators who disrupted a church service in the North Star State.

On January 18, a group of protesters filmed themselves disrupting church services at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota. Carter’s resolution notes that the protesters “shouted over clergy, physically obstructed the service, intimidated worshipers, and created a threatening environment for families and children in attendance.”

Within hours of the protest that disrupted church services, Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel announced that charges had been filed against several of the agitators, who argued that they stormed the service in protest of one of its pastors leading a local field office for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

“WE DO NOT TOLERATE ATTACKS ON PLACES OF WORSHIP,” Bondi tweeted shortly before the arrests. Carter’s resolution clarifies that he respects Americans’ First Amendment right to “peaceful protest,” he notes that “entering a church during a worship service to disrupt, intimidate, or obstruct religious exercise is not protected speech and is inconsistent with Federal law and American values.”

Carter seems specifically amenable to charges being brought under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act, which the Biden administration had used to prosecute Americans who peacefully protested outside of abortion clinics.

Read the full Washington Reporter article here.


Casten, 12 House Dems Warn Oil Companies of Legal and Civil Risks of Venezuela Markets

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) led 12 House Democrats in warning 21 major oil and oilfield services companies of the legal and financial risks posed by any transaction or investment that relies on the Trump Administration’s asserted authority to control Venezuelan oil assets. The letters were addressed to companies that either attended a January 9 meeting at the White House or have reportedly been in touch with the Trump Administration.

The lawmakers cite Congress’s constitutional war powers, U.S. obligations under the U.N. Charter, and limits on the President’s authorities under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), stating that the Administration has not provided Congress or the public a full explanation of the legal basis it claims under U.S. or international law to exert control over Venezuelan state property.

“We urge you, therefore, to bear in mind that it is possible that efforts to invalidate any such arrangements might be made by Congress, a subsequent Administration, or a future Venezuelan government, and that participation might present your company with legal and enforcement risk,” the lawmakers wrote. “Similarly, we urge you to consider that any informal assurances, inducements, or understandings offered by the current Administration might not be recognized by future U.S. administrations.”

The letter emphasizes that any arrangement to sell, license, or otherwise convey interests in Venezuelan oil reserves and related assets could expose participating firms and shareholders to significant long-term risk, including potential civil liability from Venezuela’s creditors. Furthermore, Congress, a future Administration, or a future Venezuelan government can attempt to invalidate any arrangements brokered by the US to extract Venezuelan oil.

In addition to Rep. Casten, the letter was signed by House Financial Services Committee Ranking Member Maxine Waters, House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Jared Huffman, House Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Gregory Meeks, and Representatives Mike Levin, David Min, Mike Quigley, Don Beyer, Lori Trahan, Yvette Clarke, Sam Liccardo, Nikema Williams, and Shri Thanedar.

The letters were sent to Aspect Holdings, Baker Hughes, BP, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, Continental, Exxon, Eni, Halliburton, Hilcorp, HKN, Marathon, Phillips 66, Raisa Energy, Repsol, Shell, SLB, Tallgrass, Trafigura, Valero, and Vitol.

Text of the letter can be found below. Copies of the letters can be found linked for each company above.

We write as members of Congress to advise you that any actions you may be taking with the Trump White House as relates to Venezuelan oil may expose you and your shareholders to significant long-term legal and financial risk.

As you are aware, Article I of the U.S. Constitution gives Congress the authority to declare war. Additionally, the War Powers Act provides that the United States may not enter into hostilities without the consent of Congress. Furthermore, under Article 2(4) of the United Nations Charter, the United States may not lawfully use force against another sovereign state absent authorization from the UN Security Council or a valid claim of self-defense consistent with Article 51.

The Trump White House has asserted that its attacks on boats operated by Venezuelan nationals in international waters did not require those authorizations because they were protecting Americans from narco-terrorism by non-state actors. The Administration has also asserted that the capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife required no congressional authorization because they had been indicted in U.S. courts and were being taken into custody for prosecution.

Without commenting on the merits of those legal arguments, the Trump Administration has not provided Congress or the American public with a full explanation of the legal authority it claims under U.S. or international law to exert control over Venezuelan state property.

In this regard, we would like to remind you that under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), the President has the authority to freeze or restrict certain transactions involving foreign assets within U.S. jurisdiction in response to a declared national emergency. However, IEEPA generally does not authorize the United States to take ownership of a foreign sovereign’s assets or permanently transfer rights in them, except in the narrow circumstance where the United States is engaged in armed hostilities or has been attacked.

Since the Trump Administration has neither provided an adequate explanation nor requested the legal authority from Congress or the UN Security Council, we are troubled by:

the President’s assertions that his Administration has engaged with U.S. oil companies in connection with its actions toward Venezuela, both prior to and following the operation in which U.S. forces took custody of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, and;

the President’s further statements that Venezuela would deliver 30 million to 50 million barrels of oil to the United States, and that his Administration would control the proceeds from the sale of the oil, purportedly “to benefit the people of Venezuela and the United States.”

These statements indicate to us that the Administration may be seeking to sell, license, or otherwise convey interests in Venezuelan oil reserves and related assets. The President is, of course, free to say whatever he wants. But to the extent that any private entity enters into arrangements with the United States regarding Venezuelan resources under these circumstances, such entity may be exposed to legal risk, including civil liability from creditors who hold nearly $200 billion worth of debt to Venezuela and their various state-owned entities.

The Trump administration has indicated that it is working with acting President Delcy Rodríguez to enter into agreements. In light of the circumstances, there may be a risk that any such instruments may be subject to challenge as void or voidable under coercion principles in international law, including those related to the invalidation of agreements procured through the threat or use of force.

We urge you, therefore, to bear in mind that it is possible that efforts to invalidate any such arrangements might be made by Congress, a subsequent Administration, or a future Venezuelan government, and that participation might present your company with legal and enforcement risk. Similarly, we urge you to consider that any informal assurances, inducements, or understandings offered by the current Administration might not be recognized by future U.S. administrations.

For these reasons, we strongly urge you to decline to participate in any transaction or arrangement that relies on the Trump Administration’s asserted authority to control Venezuelan oil assets.

Sincerely,

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The Africa Report article on Smith's DRC-Rwanda hearing'Congress talks Rwanda sanctions as VP Vance seizes Congo file'

By Julian Pecquet

Published January 28, 2026 at 12:00 pm (GMT +1)

Washington is turning up the pressure on Rwanda as US President Donald Trump’s peace deal for the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo struggles to take hold on the ground.

Six weeks after the Congolese and Rwandan presidents put their mutual animus on hold for a brief moment to sign the Washington Accords, US lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are threatening sanctions as they grow increasingly frustrated about the ongoing violence along the border.

Meanwhile Vice President J.D. Vance is getting personally involved in a minerals-for-security deal that has so far failed to produce either, several sources tell The Africa Report.

"I will look to do country-specific legislation to help the president get adherence to what they've agreed to," Congressman Chris Smith, the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs subcommittee on Africa, said at a 22 January hearing. "I can't say it enough: When you sign something, you put your honour on the line."

In a follow-up hallway interview with The Africa Report, the New Jersey Republican says Congress has a duty to act.

"We have a co-responsibility along with the White House. They can't do everything," Smith says. "We've got to hold people to account."

Asked if that could mean Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Smith says: "Yeah. That's why I asked about spheres of influence."

Smith's Democratic counterpart atop the panel, Sara Jacobs of California, echoed the sentiment.

"I urge the Trump Administration to make good on its promises to hold Rwanda and other spoilers to peace accountable," Jacobs said at the hearing.

"I also urge the Administration to actually include civil society in the peace process so that it has real buy-in with local populations and actually sticks," she said.

"We also need to better consult local populations on the various commercial deals in progress with the government of DRC to ensure any investments actually benefit the Congolese people, not just foreign companies and elites," she said.

Message received

In a sign of the high stakes involved, the standing-room only hearing was packed with Congolese journalists and embassy officials, including both Rwandan Ambassador Mathilde Mukantabana and Ambassador Kapinga Yvette Ngandu of the DRC.

DRC President Felix Tshisekedi is expected to make a personal case for greater US pressure on Rwanda to abandon its support for the M23 rebel group when he visits Washington for the inaugural Minerals Ministerial and the National Prayer Breakfast next week.

The Trump administration so far has kept its powder dry while signalling its patience isn't endless.

"Rwanda's actions in eastern DRC are a clear violation of the Washington Accords signed by President Trump, and the United States will take action to ensure promises made to the president are kept," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said back on 13 December.

Pressed on the matter at last week's hearing, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Central Africa Sarah Troutman reiterated that sanctions are possible.

'The [CRA/M23] withdrawal occurred without the establishment of a neutral or effective civilian-protection mechanism'

"We continue to hold all options on the table to incentivise changed behaviour and incentivise Rwanda to comply with its obligations under the Washington Accords," she told lawmakers.

Meanwhile, Vance has been taking on a greater role in the Congo file while Trump's senior adviser for Arab and African affairs, Massad Boulos, takes on new responsibilities, including in Yemen, three sources tell The Africa Report.

Boulos kicked off the Congo diplomacy with a trip to the region last April and briefed Smith before the hearing, but his role going forward appears to be in flux.

The vice president's office and Boulos' team did not respond to requests for comment.

Counter-narrative

Rwanda isn't the only one getting blamed.

Ahead of the hearing, the Mahoro Peace Association, a US association of Congolese Tutsis, wrote a brief to lawmakers outlining renewed attacks against the Banyamulenge minority in eastern Congo following the withdrawal of the Rwandan-backed Congo River Alliance (CRA)/M23 rebel alliance.

"The [CRA/M23] withdrawal occurred without the establishment of a neutral or effective civilian-protection mechanism, leaving the Banyamulenge and Tutsi minority, historically targeted and at high risk, exposed to hostile armed groups," said Douglas Kabunda, the group's president.

"Within hours, [Congolese armed forces] and allied militias entered the city, triggering widespread displacement, property destruction, and credible reports of human rights abuses," he said.

In a follow-up interview with The Africa Report, the Arizona-based Kabunda said Tshisekedi's government is failing in its duty to protect all Congolese, in turn encouraging Rwanda to intervene.

"The root cause of the conflict is not being addressed in this agreement," Kabunda says. "The Banyamulenge are being sidelined for economic gain."

It's a view that has some traction in Washington.

"There cannot be peace in the Congo without first ending anti-Tutsi incitement," said Michael Rubin of the conservative American Enterprise Institute in a 22 January op-ed.

This article was published on January 28, 2026 and can be found online at:


Rep. Chu Responds to President Trump's Executive Order on LA Fires

Pasadena, CA – Today, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) issued the following statement regarding President Trump’s Executive Order, “Accelerating Rebuilding in Wildfire-Devastated Los Angeles.”

“The number one concern I hear from wildfire survivors in my district is whether they can afford to rebuild, and this Executive Order does nothing to address that. In fact, it will do nothing to accelerate rebuilding," said Rep. Chu.

"For more than a year, President Trump and congressional Republicans have refused to deliver supplemental disaster aid not only to communities devastated by the Eaton and Palisades Fires, but also to disaster survivors in Florida, Texas, and North Carolina."

“This Executive Order is yet another distraction from the President’s responsibility to immediately fulfill Governor Newsom’s $34 billion supplemental disaster aid request – with no strings attached. I will not stop fighting until this assistance is delivered and our communities have what they need from the federal government to recover, rebuild, and heal.”


Higgins, Kennedy, Cassidy Call For DoW Investment in Louisiana Shipyards

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA), Senator John Kennedy (R-LA), and Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) delivered a letter to U.S. Department of War Secretary Pete Hegseth requesting full consideration for Louisiana shipyards when awarding shipbuilding contracts.

“We write to encourage the Department of War to give deliberate and sustained consideration to small and mid-sized domestic shipyards, including those in South Louisiana, when awarding shipbuilding, repair, modernization, and sustainment contracts, as the Department works to restore America’s shipbuilding capacity and strengthen the nation’s defense industrial base,” wrote the members.

“Louisiana’s small and mid-sized shipyards already operate in a manner consistent with the Department’s stated aim to prioritize speed, innovation, and a “commercial-first” mindset in defense acquisition. These yards compete daily in fastmoving commercial markets, where success depends on rapid execution, continuous innovation, and disciplined cost control. That operating model enables them to adapt quickly to evolving requirements, integrate new technologies, and deliver complex vessels at pace—capabilities that directly support the Department’s effort to modernize procurement and strengthen the defense industrial base,” continued the members.


UPDATE: Congressman Comer Henderson County Events Postponed

WASHINGTON – Congressman James Comer’s (R–Ky.) events in Henderson County scheduled for today, Wednesday, January 28, have been postponed. Please contact Austin Hacker at Austin.Hacker@mail.house.gov with any questions.

POSTPONED


Rep. Crank Introduces FRAMER Act, Bill to Cut Restrictions and Save Homebuyers Burdensome Costs

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, Representative Jeff Crank (CO-05) introduced the Freeing Residential Affordable Markets from Excess Regulation (FRAMER) Act.

The cost of buying a new home in America is a challenge. This is made worse by excessive energy codes and regulations that raise the costs of construction, which are then passed down to homebuyers. The FRAMER Act would reduce the cost of home construction and homebuying by incentivizing states to roll back “agenda informed” energy codes applied to the construction of new homes. Under the legislation, states with energy codes more stringent than the federal standard would be required to reimburse home builders for the difference in construction costs.

"Every American should be able to live out their dream of owning a home," said Rep. Crank. "Unfortunately, this dream continues to be out of reach for many Americans. Energy codes and regulations, like the harsh one's we see here Colorado, significantly increase the cost of building a home, forcing our home builders to pass on the burdensome costs to the buyers.

"This is enough - we should not punish our home buyers, which is why I have introduced the FRAMER Act. The FRAMER Act will incentivize states to roll back overbearing energy efficiency codes, creating an environment that encourages home building and lowers the regulatory cost on home builders and buyers. The FRAMER Act provides the right incentive to states without federal overreach to directly address the housing affordability crisis in America."

Quotes of support for the FRAMER Act include:

“We applaud Congressman Crank for identifying one of the most significant regulations that is driving up the cost of building a home and proposing an incentive for states to adjust their mandates," said the Housing & Building Association of Colorado Springs. "Every day, we strive to build communities and homes where families can thrive, but overbearing regulations make it harder to deliver on this goal. We look forward to continuing to work with Congressman Crank and our elected officials to enact policies that promote home ownership and lower the barriers for home buyers to realize the American dream.”

“I am honored to support Congressman Crank’s FRAMER Act," said Roger Lovell, Regional Building Official, Pikes Peak Regional Building Department. "In my position as the Regional Building Official of Pikes Peak Regional Building Department, I have firsthand experience and knowledge about how the cost of building a home has increased over the years due to overbearing regulations forced by the State, which take away local authority and jurisdiction. These regulations have added thousands of dollars to the cost of building a home and have made it time consuming, costly, and burdensome for the communities, the industry, and those who locally regulate construction. I am greatly encouraged that Congressman Crank understands these impacts and is taking the issues seriously by proposing a thoughtful incentive for states like Colorado to roll back their energy code mandates and return to common sense policies that promote home building, maintain affordability, increase the access to new homes in our communities, and strengthen the relationship between the State and its local governments.”

“Providing high quality housing for El Paso County is one of our main priorities," said The O'Neil Group Company. "In recent years, the cost of building a home has only increased and become more complex in Colorado, in part due to the harmful energy code mandates from the state capital. We applaud Congressman Crank for leading on effectively addressing the regulations that are holding back home builders from delivering more homes for all Coloradans.”

“The National Association of REALTORS® supports the FRAMER Act, which takes a practical, market-driven approach to reducing regulatory costs that make housing less affordable. By ensuring states account for the added costs of energy code compliance in Opportunity Zones, this legislation helps builders bring more attainable homes to market while maintaining transparency for homebuyers. REALTORS® appreciate Rep. Crank’s leadership in advancing policies that expand housing supply, protect consumers, and address affordability issues," said Shannon McGahn, Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer, National Association of REALTORS®.

“Lower housing costs lead to earlier homeownership, stronger families, and greater stability for children," said Craig DeRoche, President and CEO of Family Policy Alliance. "Expanding housing supply reduces competition and prices, helping families avoid delaying children or leaving their support networks. Family Policy Alliance is glad to support the FRAMER Act as a practical step to address one of the fastest-growing drivers of housing costs and strengthen families in communities across America.”

"Burdensome regulations have made housing expensive and homebuying out of the reach for Americans across the country," said Ilana Blumsack, Economic Policy Analyst, Americans for Prosperity. "AFP thanks Rep. Crank for shining a light on excessive energy and environmental regulations burdening home builders and for encouraging states to reduce and reform their requirements."

Background:

The FRAMER Act incentivizes states to roll back overbearing energy housing codes by:

As a requirement of receiving housing grants from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), a state will be required to reimburse home builders for the added total cost of state specific regulations that are more stringent than HUD’s current energy code minimum standard for homes built within a federal opportunity zone

Requires the Government Accountability Office to create an annual report summarizing data from HUD on which states and localities were required to pay a cost difference, how much in total they paid to home builders, what the average payment per home was in each state and locality, and how much each state’s regulations added to the cost of building a home

Ensures that home buyers are informed of any cost savings realized through any reimbursement received by the home builder that lowers the cost of buying the home


Rep. Crockett Visits Dilley Detention Center, Demands Release of 5-Year-Old Liam Ramos

SAN ANTONIO, TX — Today, Congresswoman Crockett, along with Representatives Joaquin Castro and Greg Casar visited the Dilley Detention Center to conduct oversight and demand the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to immediately release Liam Adrian Conejo Ramos, a 5-year-old detained at the Dilley Detention Facility in Texas, and to safely reunite him with his family in Minneapolis.

“At five years old, Liam should be thinking about snack time, and which toys he’ll play with after preschool, not sitting in a detention center after ICE used him as bait at his own front door,” said Rep. Crockett. “I went to the Dilley Detention Center today because this administration wants the cruelty hidden and the accountability avoided. But let me be clear: that won’t happen. Not on my watch. There was no justification for detaining a preschooler. None. This is not public safety. It is weaponization and abuse of power. Liam and his father must be released immediately.”

On January 20, Liam was taken by federal agents alongside his father, Adrian Alexander Conejo Ramos, as he returned home from preschool in Minnesota. After detaining his father, ICE agents directed Liam to knock on the door of his home to check for others inside, using him as bait. He is now the fourth child from his Minneapolis school district taken by federal agents.

Liam and his family entered the United States legally through the CBP One process and applied for asylum in 2024. Despite having active and pending immigration court cases and fully complying with court obligations, they remain detained at Dilley, the only family detention center in the United States.

A recording of the press conference can be found here.

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Davids, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Boost Ticket to Work Awareness

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Sharice Davids (KS-03), Rep. French Hill (AR-02), Rep. Jim Costa (CA-21), Rep. Donald Davis (NC-01), Rep. Max Miller (OH-07), and Rep. Blake Moore (UT-01) introduced the bipartisan Ticket to Work Awareness Act to increase awareness of an existing program that helps Americans with disabilities access job training, employment services, and support without risking their benefits.

Rep. Sharice Davids said, “Far too often, people who want to work and gain more independence don’t have clear information about the support available to them. This bipartisan bill makes sure Social Security actually reaches out to beneficiaries and clearly explains their options, so Kansans with disabilities can explore work and career opportunities without fear of losing the benefits they depend on. By improving awareness, we can help more families build financial stability and dignity through work — without adding cost or bureaucracy. I am glad to work with my Republican colleague, Representative French Hill, on this effort.”

Rep. Hill said, “Nearly two-thirds of eligible beneficiaries have no idea the Ticket to Work program exists. That is unacceptable. This commonsense bill improves outreach so people who want to work know what options are available to them, without adding new spending or growing government. I am proud to co-lead this bipartisan effort to correct the Social Security Administration’s failure to adequately communicate and promote this important program and support greater opportunities and independence for people with disabilities.”

“I’m proud to co-lead this bipartisan legislation to ensure people receiving Social Security disability benefits are aware of the Ticket to Work program,” said Rep. Costa. “Far too many individuals with disabilities across the San Joaquin Valley and the nation are unaware of the employment services readily available to them. This bill will strengthen outreach from the Social Security Administration and will allow beneficiaries to explore work opportunities without risking their benefits."

The Ticket to Work program opens doors for eastern North Carolinians and others across the nation by offering training that leads to meaningful new careers and economic stability for their families,” said Congressman Don Davis. “True potential is unlocked when eligible participants know how to access these impactful training opportunities.”

“Too many Americans with disabilities who want to work and achieve financial independence simply don’t know the Ticket to Work program exists,” said Congressman Max Miller. “This legislation takes a simple, common-sense step to change that by requiring regular outreach, so eligible beneficiaries are aware of the opportunities and support available to them. Ticket to Work empowers Americans to pursue meaningful employment without risking their benefits, and increasing awareness will help more people gain independence, dignity, and a stronger future. I’m proud to cosponsor this bill to make sure no one is left in the dark about a program designed to help them succeed.”


Davids Pushes Affordable Afterschool Care for Kansas Families During School Visit

KANSAS CITY, KS – Today, Representative Sharice Davids visited Emerson Elementary School’s afterschool program to meet with students and staff and highlight the importance of affordable, accessible afterschool care for Kansas families. During the visit, Davids discussed her newly introduced bipartisan legislation to expand access to afterschool programs by reducing cost and logistical barriers that prevent many working parents from enrolling their children.

“Afterschool programs give kids a safe place to learn and grow while giving parents peace of mind that their children are supported,” said Davids. “But for too many Kansas families, cost, transportation, and limited availability put these programs out of reach. My bipartisan bill is about using common-sense partnerships to help communities expand available slots, lower program costs, and make afterschool care work better for parents — so moms and dads can stay at work knowing their children are safe and thriving.”

WATCH: Davids speaks on her new bipartisan bill while visiting an afterschool program

“Children throughout the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos can benefit from the after-school programs available in our community, but too many struggle to access them,” said Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (R-PA-07). “That’s why the Afterschool ACCESS Act reforms the tax code to incentivize more public-private partnerships — creating more opportunities for Pennsylvania kids. By freeing up space and transportation for temporary use by providers, this legislation provides the flexibility and versatility that children and families need.”

The Afterschool Access Through Charitable Contributions for Enrichment and Student Support (ACCESS) Act incentivizes public-private partnerships by allowing charitable tax deductions for the part-time use of private property and transportation to support afterschool programs. By unlocking access to physical space, safe transportation, and other essential resources, the bill helps communities overcome the biggest barriers facing afterschool providers — without increasing costs for families.

At Emerson Elementary School, Davids toured the afterschool program, spoke with educators and staff, and met with students participating in enrichment activities. The visit highlighted how afterschool programs support academic success, provide safe and structured environments, and help working families balance their schedules.

According to a recent Afterschool Alliance report, 75 percent of Kansas children whose parents want afterschool care are unable to access it. Cost, lack of transportation, and limited availability remain the most common obstacles. Nationwide, parents report that afterschool programs improve workplace productivity and provide peace of mind, while giving children opportunities to build critical academic and life skills.

Supporter Quotes:

“After-school programming in USD 500 plays a vital role in supporting families by providing a safe, supportive environment for students,” said Mechelle Wortham, Coordinator, KidZone program at Emmerson Elementary. “These programs help build strong partnerships between schools, families, and the broader community, while exposing students to activities they might not otherwise experience—such as partnerships with Scouting programs, martial arts, the YMCA, 4-H, and more.”

“The Kansas Enrichment Network is grateful to raise awareness around the critical role afterschool programs play across the state,” said Michael Lemon, Director, Kansas Enrichment Network. “Out-of-school time opportunities such as KidZone at Emerson Elementary connect communities, support working families, and expand learning and growth beyond school hours. To sustain programs and ensure affordable access to quality afterschool opportunities for Kansans, it is vital to align the needs of today’s youth with local, statewide, and national support.”

“To support positive youth development and the stability of working families, we must address the barriers keeping millions of children out of quality out-of-school time programs,” said John Wilson, President, Kansas Action for Children. “The Afterschool ACCESS Act provides a common-sense, bipartisan solution by incentivizing businesses to contribute the spaces and transportation necessary to maintain and expand programs. This legislation is a vital investment in our children’s future and the continued growth of our communities.”

“We appreciate the leadership from Representative Sharice Davids on this issue,” said Paul Bean, Executive Director, Franklin County Development Council. “Funding is the critical barrier for many families, especially in rural communities such as Franklin County. Affordability is the key issue among families with young children. Food prices have increased substantially, so it limits family budgets to cover afterschool cost. Representative Davids understands this affordability issue, and we appreciate her efforts to help our young families with this important service.”

“Students in afterschool programs make impressive gains in grades, school attendance, behavior, and more — but too many of our children and youth are missing out,” said Jodi Grant, Executive Director, Afterschool Alliance. “The parents of 29.6 million children want afterschool programs for their children, but just 7 million kids are currently enrolled. The bipartisan Afterschool ACCESS Act would help increase access to afterschool programs by incentivizing public-private partnerships that can remove barriers to participation like transportation and support new programs at new sites.”


Congressman Don Davis Co-Leads Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Taiwan’s Defense and Indo-Pacific Security

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressmen Don Davis (NC-01), Rob Wittman (VA-01), Ami Bera (CA-06), and Ryan Mackenzie (PA-07) introduced the Providing Our Regional Companions Upgraded Protection in Nefarious Environments (PORCUPINE) Act to streamline and accelerate the U.S. arms procurement process for Taiwan, ensuring our democratic partner can access critical defensive capabilities more efficiently as regional security challenges intensify.

“Taiwan stands on the front lines of the global struggle between democracy and authoritarianism,” said Congressman Davis. “As pressure from the Chinese Communist Party continues to mount, it is critical that Taiwan has the tools it needs to defend its sovereignty and protect the freedoms of its people. A stronger Taiwan deters aggression, supports regional stability, and makes the United States safer.”

“Taiwan is at the tip of the spear in our effort to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific region and serves as a key regional partner to the United States,” said Congressman Wittman. “Our strategic partners in the Indo-Pacific are facing increasing aggression by the CCP – now more than ever we must ensure Taiwan has the military capabilities to defend itself. I am proud to introduce the bipartisan PORCUPINE Act, which will cut burdensome regulations and enable a quicker arms procurement process for our Taiwanese partners.”

“As a co-chair of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus, I’m proud to support the bipartisan PORCUPINE Act,” said Congressman Bera. “Taiwan is a vibrant democracy and a vital partner in the Indo-Pacific. At a time when Taiwan faces growing threats from the PRC, we must ensure Taiwan can quickly access the defensive capabilities it needs to protect its people and uphold regional stability. This bill strengthens our commitment to Taiwan’s self-defense and reaffirms that the United States stands with our democratic partners.”

“At a time when security challenges in the Indo-Pacific are growing, we need to ensure our partners can access defensive capabilities without unnecessary delays,” said Congressman Mackenzie. “The PORCUPINE Act is a commonsense, bipartisan way to cut through red tape, strengthen deterrence, and support Taiwan’s ability to defend itself. By streamlining certification and licensing for trusted allies, this bill promotes stability in the region and helps prevent conflict.”

The PORCUPINE Act would:

Define Taiwan as a “NATO-plus” country — meaning shorter approval timelines for arms sales to Taiwan and a higher cost threshold requiring approval.

Give the President the authority to reduce or waive certain fees for arms sales to Taiwan.

Streamline reporting requirements for certain arms sales.

Require the State Department to conduct a feasibility assessment for expediting licenses for allies to transfer military equipment to Taiwan.

Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and passed the Senate in December 2025.


Congresswoman Escobar Joins Village of Vinton for Groundbreaking of Water and Sewer Infrastructure Project

Today, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) joined local leaders and stakeholders for the groundbreaking of the Village of Vinton’s Water and Sewer Phase III Project. Congresswoman Escobar secured $4 million in federal funding for this project as part of her 15 community project funding requests for Fiscal Year 2023. Funding for this project was included in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023.

“I’m proud to again have secured transformational funding for our community,” said Congresswoman Escobar. “The Village of Vinton is using those funds to expand potable water in Vinton and connect fire hydrants, local businesses, and more to much-needed water infrastructure. I will continue to use my position on the Appropriations Committee to fight for our community and bring home the dollars needed to make critical projects a reality — projects that improve lives across our region.”

“This is what effective government and leadership looks like," said County Commissioner Sergio Coronado. "Collaboration between our elected officials and local governments is essential to providing our community what it needs. We are fortunate that we have an elected official in Congresswoman Escobar, that uses her seat on the Appropriations Committee, to help our community with funding for essential projects that improve our quality of life.”

“This project would not be possible without Congresswoman Escobar’s leadership and commitment to communities like Vinton,” said Village of Vinton Mayor Rachel Quintana. “Her support for critical water, sewer, and transportation funding is helping us deliver long-overdue infrastructure improvements that will strengthen our local economy and improve quality of life for our residents.”

This project provides for the expansion of a looped water and sewer system with a wholesale supply of treated potable water and treatment of wastewater for the local business sector. The proposed system includes approximately 21,600 linear feet of 8-to-12-inch waterline, one master meter, 44 fire hydrants, and approximately 65 first-time commercial service connections. On the wastewater side, the system would include 13,980 linear feet of 8-inch sewer line and the decommissioning of 59 onsite sewage facilities. The implementation of adequate water and sewer infrastructure will address public safety and health concerns that include fire flow and environmental health.

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Congressman Flood Delivers More Than $26 Million in Federal Dollars for the First District in Final Round of Annual Budget Bills

LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood released a statement following the House’s recent passage of the remaining federal budget bills for Fiscal Year 2026, including H.R. 7148 and H.R. 4147. The bills provide FY26 funding for transportation, infrastructure, and other key areas. They represent the last of the federal funding bills for FY26. Passage of these bills avoids an extension of Biden-Schumer spending levels.

“Passing all 12 appropriations bills brings fiscal restraint to federal spending while also delivering key investments across Nebraska’s First District,” said Congressman Flood. “These investments will help modernize roads and and other infrastructure throughout our district, connecting our communities and spurring economic growth in the coming years. Thank you to the stakeholders working on the projects and I look forward to seeing them come to fruition."

As part of this appropriations package, Congressman Flood helped secure more than $26 million in federal funding for projects across Nebraska’s First District. They include:

$3,000,000 to Dodge County for Morningside Road improvements for inland port development in Fremont.

$1,500,000 to Cuming County for the Elkhorn River bridge replacement project in West Point.

$5,120,000 to the City of Papillion for Schram Road grading and surfacing with direct access to Omaha National Cemetery.

$1,000,000 to Seward County for paving 420th Road between I-80 and Hwy 34.

$1,800,000 to Polk County for 141st Road paving from a gravel surface to concrete paving with earth shoulders.

$2,800,000 to the City of Fremont for the North Downtown streetscape revitalization project.

$3,000,000 to the City of Waverly for Oldfield Street paving.

$2,500,000 to the City of Lincoln for the Center Terrace and Rental Rehabilitation public connectivity improvements.

$5,348,000 to Lancaster County for North 162nd Street paving from a gravel surface to paved asphalt lanes.

In addition to the Community Project Funding requests listed above, this appropriations package hires and trains 2,500 new air traffic controllers, modernizes radar systems, new investments in apprenticeship programs, $335 million for the Veterans’ Employment and Training Administration, reduces bureaucratic bloat, and more.

The funding package awaits Senate action before it needs the President’s signature to become law.


RELEASE: Congresswoman Friedman Speaks at First AJC Congressional Community Forum

Above: Friedman answers a question from the audience.

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA — U.S. Representative Laura Friedman (CA-30) spoke at the American Jewish Committee (AJC)’s first in a series of Congressional Community Forums at the Temple Israel of Hollywood. The conversation, moderated by former Los Angeles City Controller and current Interim Director of AJC Los Angeles Ron Galperin, centered on the issues of rising antisemitism, ICE and DHS in the community, and the big picture fight for the future of democracy.

“During this moment of skyrocketing antisemitism and fear in our Jewish community and across Los Angeles, these conversations are more important than ever,” said U.S. Representative Laura Friedman (CA-30). “I’m focused on taking action, including pushing back against Trump’s attacks on our community, protecting places of worship, and making sure hardworking Angelenos know they aren’t alone. That work is rooted in my Jewish values and my responsibility to the people I represent.”

Earlier that day, Friedman led Reps. Judy Chu and Brad Sherman to push for Secretary Kristi Noem’s impeachment and major ICE reforms. Friedman has been a leader in the fight against antisemitism and antisemitic violence in the Trump Administration and elsewhere. These efforts include leading her colleagues in calling out Secretary Hegseth over the promotion of Kingsley Wilson, calling out social media platforms for lack of oversight of harmful content, and urging the Appropriations Committee to address antisemitism in healthcare.

Below: Friedman with community members and forum attendees.

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RELEASE: Representatives Friedman, Sherman, Chu Lead Push for ICE Reform & Noem Impeachment

Above: Friedman, Chu, Sherman demanding accountability and reform of ICE and DHS.

LOS ANGELES, CA — Today, January 28, 2026, U.S. Representatives Laura Friedman (CA-30), Judy Chu (CA-28), and Brad Sherman (CA-32) joined forces to demand accountability and major reform of ICE and DHS after two Americans were killed during federal immigration enforcement operations in Minneapolis.

A recording of the livestream can be found here.

Friedman is an original cosponsor on the resolution to impeach Secretary Noem, is helping lead the No Masks for ICE Act to ban agents from hiding their identities, and is demanding the immediate termination of Greg Bovino, the architect of Operation Metro Surge which killed two Americans and he cannot be allowed to quietly return to California to lead enforcement here.

“Two Americans are dead, and federal agents are violating the Constitution, detaining Americans, and making our communities less safe without any accountability,” said Congresswoman Laura Friedman (CA-30). “No American, in Minnesota or California or any state in our union, should live under fear of an unchecked federal force. If a local police chief acted like Kristi Noem, I'd be fighting to make sure they're out of a job before the sun set. It's time for action.”

Friedman is fighting for critical legislation, including:

Rep. Robin Kelly's resolution to impeach Secretary Kristi Noem for lying to the public and leading a cover-up instead of a law enforcement agency

The No Masks for ICE Act, introduced by Rep. Nydia Velázquez, which would stop agents from hiding their identities and ensure public transparency and accountability

The Bivens Act, led by Congressmen Hank Johnson and Jamie Raskin, to end ICE agents' immunity from being sued, giving Americans recourse for constitutional violations committed against them by federal officials

the rescinding of ICE funding from the Big Ugly Bill and demanding Congress act now to rein in ICE and DHS

Friedman will not vote for a cent of ICE or DHS funding until:

Operation Metro Surge ends.

All federal agents drop their masks and wear clear identification.

Officers who violate the Constitution, laws, and court orders are held accountable.

Warrants are required for arrests and searches.

U.S. citizens are not being improperly detained or deported by ICE or DHS.

Use-of-force standards are mandated.

Below: Friedman, Chu, Sherman demanding accountability and reform of ICE and DHS.

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Rep. Gillen Leads Bipartisan Letter to Secretary Noem Urging Temporary Protected Status Extension for Haitians

GARDEN CITY, NY – Today, Congresswoman Laura Gillen (D-NY-04) and Congressman Mike Lawler (R-NY-17) sent a letter to Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, urging her to extend temporary protected status (TPS) for Haitian nationals through February 3, 2027.

“Our districts in New York are proud to be home to some of the largest Haitian American populations in the country, and our Haitian neighbors have made significant contributions to our communities,” said the lawmakers. “Haitian TPS holders in our districts work as essential healthcare workers, educators, small business owners, construction workers and service industry professionals. A TPS extension for Haitians would provide critical stability for thousands of families across New York and prevent harmful workforce disruptions. That is why we introduced bipartisan legislation last year to extend TPS protections for Haitians through February 3, 2027.”

Rep. Gillen’s urgent push follows her year-long fight to protect TPS for law-abiding Haitian nationals. Nassau County is home to one of the largest Haitian communities in the country, and many face certain life-threatening danger if they are sent back to Haiti.

The full letter can be found HERE and below:

Dear Secretary Noem:

We write to urge you to extend temporary protected status (TPS) for Haitian nationals through February 3, 2027. These protections offer a safe, legal pathway for Haitian asylum seekers escaping humanitarian crisis to live in and contribute to our communities. We urge you to prevent hardworking, legal Haitian immigrants from being sent back to certain danger.

As you know, the situation in Haiti is volatile and declining. Between January and May of last year, 2,680 people have been killed, and 1.3 million Haitians have been displaced from their homes due to ongoing gang violence. There is widespread recognition that the ongoing unrest in Haiti is extreme and demands a response.

Since 2010, TPS has served as a vital humanitarian tool for Haitian nationals fleeing violence and environmental disaster. The designation has repeatedly been extended due to bipartisan recognition that the situation in Haiti remains volatile. TPS holders are rigorously vetted, pay fees for work authorization, contribute to the U.S. economy through taxes and live as law-abiding members of their communities.

Our districts in New York are proud to be home to some of the largest Haitian American populations in the country, and our Haitian neighbors have made significant contributions to our communities. Haitian TPS holders in our districts work as essential healthcare workers, educators, small business owners, construction workers and service industry professionals. A TPS extension for Haitians would provide critical stability for thousands of families across New York and prevent harmful workforce disruptions. That is why we introduced bipartisan legislation last year to extend TPS protections for Haitians through February 3, 2027.

We urge you to grant this extension and provide certainty to our Haitian neighbors and our communities. Thank you for your attention to this matter and we look forward to your response.


Reps. Gillen, Lawler, Dingell Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Drunk Driving Fatalities and Support Law Enforcement

GARDEN CITY, NY - Representatives Laura Gillen (D-NY-04), Mike Lawler (R-NY-17) and Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) introduced the Drunk Driving Prevention and Enforcement Act. This bipartisan effort takes significant steps to prevent impaired driving and save lives by combining technology, support for law enforcement and data-driven solutions to prevent tragedies caused by impaired driving.

This bill will:

Direct the Secretary of Transportation to award a cash prize to help implement the HALT Drunk Driving Law, which directed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to issue a rule mandating advanced impaired driving prevention technology in all new vehicles—a life-saving measure that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) estimates could prevent more than 10,000 deaths annually.

Establish a Traffic Safety Enforcement Center of Excellence at NHTSA to provide leadership and technical assistance to States and law enforcement agencies to identify and implement efficient, effective approaches to traffic safety enforcement of hazardous driving behaviors, to reduce fatalities and injuries on our roads.

Establish a National Drug-Involved Crash Data Collection System to collect toxicology data and award grants to states to set up labs and collect data.

“Each day, 34 American families lose a loved one to a drunk driving crash,” said Representative Gillen. “Drunk driving remains the leading cause of death on our highways and far too many Long Island families know the pain of a life cut short. I’m proud to lead this long-overdue, bipartisan effort to require life-saving technology in new vehicles, strengthen state and local enforcement and create the first national system to collect drug-involved crash data so we can better understand and address emerging threats on our roads.”

“Drunk driving is one of the leading killers on American roads, with deaths up 22% since 2019 and someone is harmed by it every 85 seconds. By incentivizing the auto industry to install life-saving anti-drunk driving technology and strengthening traffic safety enforcement, this legislation directly confronts a public safety threat that has taken far too many lives,” said Representative Lawler.

“No family should lose a loved one to drunk and impaired driving,” said Representative Dingell. “I led the fight to get the HALT Drunk Driving Act signed into law, requiring life-saving technology in all vehicles. Now, I’m proud to work with Congresswoman Gillen to enhance road safety through critical measures, such as ensuring this technology is in vehicles, establishing a national drug testing system to deter impaired driving and strengthening traffic safety enforcement. Passing the law isn’t enough and these measures must be enforced. NHTSA must act on its Congressional directive without delay. Together, we can work to make our roads safer and prevent further unnecessary tragedies.”

"No family should have to endure the lifelong trauma caused by the violent and 100% preventable crime of drunk driving," said MADD National Ambassador Erica Linn, a New York resident whose parents, Henrietta and Carmelo Sbezzi, were killed by a drunk driver on Erica’s 50th birthday. "MADD commends Congresswoman Gillen, Congressman Lawler and Congresswoman Dingell for working to advance deployment of anti-drunk driving technology that will save over 10,000 lives every year when it's built into all new cars, and for proposing improved data collection on drug-impaired driving along with other critical resources to support law enforcement’s DUI prevention efforts."

“Impaired drivers are responsible for roughly one-third of all traffic deaths each year, and alcohol remains the leading contributor,” said Jake Nelson, Director of Traffic Safety Advocacy and Research, AAA. “With cannabis and other drugs adding to this already devastating problem, this legislation gives the U.S. a real opportunity to focus on actual solutions. By improving data, advancing in-vehicle technology and strengthening how law enforcement resources are used on our roads, we can make meaningful progress in reducing impaired-driving deaths."

"Drunk driving continues to be a leading killer on our roadways. The bipartisan leadership of Reps. Laura Gillen (D-NY), Mike Lawler (R-NY) and Debbie Dingell (D-MI) to advance solutions in the Drunk Driving Prevention and Enforcement Act is key to ending these preventable deaths on our roadways,” said Cathy Chase, President, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. “Impaired driving prevention technology, support for law enforcement to deter hazardous driving and improved data collection are a life-saving combination and build on the success of the HALT Law. Advocates is proud to endorse this measure alongside our safety partners. We urge Congress to swiftly pass this legislation."

“CADCA strongly supports this bipartisan legislation to accelerate life-saving impaired-driving prevention technology and strengthen traffic safety nationwide,” said General Barrye L. Price, President & CEO, Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America. “Every community deserves roads free from impaired driving and this bill takes smart, decisive steps to make that a reality. We are proud to stand with our national partners and local coalitions working to build safer, healthier communities and we commend Representatives Gillen, Lawler and Dingell, along with MADD and AAA, for advancing solutions that will save lives.”

“The Consortium of Forensic Science Organizations commends efforts to reduce drunk driving incidents with the integration of passive, advanced anti-drunk driving in-vehicle technology into all new passenger motor vehicles and applauds the introduction of this legislation. We appreciate Representative Gillen's emphasis on the importance of forensic toxicology testing in DUI enforcement and prosecution. To effectively address this issue, forensic scientists need resources to standardize testing and reporting, access to advanced instrumentation, and improved toxicology data sharing across the country. Understanding trends and prevalence of drug and alcohol use on highways is essential to address the tragic impacts on individuals and families caused by DUI offenders,” said Matthew Gamette, Chairman, Consortium of Forensic Science Organizations.

“We are longstanding supporters of bold, innovative approaches to reduce crashes and save lives,” said Chris Swonger, President and CEO, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) and Responsibility.org. “We applaud this effort to utilize commonsense, non-invasive technology, paired with giving law enforcement the tools they need, to stop would-be drunk drivers. We also appreciate efforts to address multi-substance impaired driving, which is a growing risk on our nation’s roads. We cannot wait any longer. We must take action to solve impaired driving now."

"We applaud Representatives Gillen, Lawler, and Dingell for their leadership on the Drunk Driving Prevention and Enforcement Act," said Amy Cohen, Founder & President, Families for Safe Streets. "Families for Safe Streets members know the heartbreak of losing a loved one to traffic violence. By incentivizing the adoption of advanced impaired driving prevention technology, enhancing traffic safety enforcement, and improving data collection on drug-involved crashes, this legislation takes crucial steps to prevent others from experiencing that same pain. Every year, thousands of deaths could be prevented with these measures, and we are proud to support this bipartisan effort to protect drivers, passengers and pedestrians alike.”

“Impaired driving remains one of the most persistent and preventable threats on our roads,” said Jonathan Adkins, CEO, Governors Highway Safety Association. “The Drunk Driving Prevention and Enforcement Act takes a comprehensive approach to addressing the issue by pairing proven traffic safety enforcement with the next generation of vehicle technology designed to stop drunk driving before it starts. By accelerating the implementation of the HALT Drunk Driving Law and empowering law enforcement agencies to stop dangerous driving behaviors, this bill takes a critical step toward ending drunk driving and reducing roadway deaths nationwide.”

"The Institute for Safer Trucking and Road Safe America supports the Drunk Driving Prevention and Enforcement Act. This bipartisan bill builds on the HALT Act to save lives, strengthen enforcement, and close critical safety data gaps,” said Jennifer Walsh, Principal, Institute for Safer Trucking.“Together, these measures have the potential to save lives, protect all road users, and ensure that states and law enforcement have the tools they need to keep our roads safe. We urge Congress to include this legislation in the surface transportation reauthorization bill."

“This Act represents a sophisticated, evidence-based and data-driven approach to reducing tragedies caused by intoxicated drivers,” said Diana Fishbein, President, National Prevention Science Coalition to Improve Lives. “It’s a smart and technologically capable way to ensure the safety of all drivers—both other drivers and pedestrians who are at the mercy of impaired drivers and the drunk drivers themselves, whose families suffer. I strongly advise Congress to take this action.”

“Every day, loved ones are lost to the devastating consequences of drunk driving. These tragedies are not inevitable — they are entirely preventable. The National Safety Council applauds Representatives Gillen, Lawler and Dingell for their bipartisan leadership to prevent drunk driving,” said Lorraine Martin, CEO, National Safety Council. “The Drunk Driving Prevention and Enforcement Act is a common-sense measure that complements the Safe System Approach to achieve zero traffic deaths. Through a combination of technology, traffic safety enforcement and data, the bill harnesses proven solutions to ensure that no more lives are needlessly lost from drunk driving."

“We stand with public health and safety advocates to support legislation that enables NHTSA to advance technology innovations and enforcement efforts to reduce preventable crashes due to drunk, drugged, drowsy and distracted forms of impaired driving,” said the National Sleep Foundation.

“One of Responsibility.org’s core missions is to eliminate drunk driving and to work with others to eliminate all forms of impaired driving. This bill gets to the heart of addressing impaired driving on our nation’s roads,” said Leslie Kimball, Executive Director, Responsibility.org. “Incentivizes the use of innovative technology in vehicles that could ultimately save lives, bolsters law enforcement’s efforts to catch impaired drivers and prevent recidivism and prioritizes essential countermeasures addressing drugged driving that help us all understand the scope of the issue. Thank you to Representatives Gillen, Lawler and Dingell for your leadership.”

“Safe Night LLC is proud to support the Drunk Driving Prevention and Enforcement Act because this legislation moves us beyond reactive responses and empowers the community to work together as allies in prevention,” said Molly Mastoras, President, Safe Night LLC.

This bill has been endorsed by: Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), American Automobile Association (AAA), Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA), Consortium of Forensic Science Organizations, American Society of Crime Lab Directors (ASCLD), American Academy of Forensic Science, National Association of Medical Examiners, International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners, Society of Forensic Toxicologists, American Board of Toxicologists, the International Association for Identification, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS), National Prevention Science Coalition to Improve Lives, National Safety Council, National Sleep Foundation, Responsibility.org, Safe Kids Worldwide, Society for Public Health Education, Stopdistractions.org, Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD), Truck Safety Coalition, Institute for Safer Trucking, Association for Safe International Road Travel, American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, Governors Highway Safety Association.


NH Delegation Calls on Noem, DHS to Respond to Concerns of Merrimack Residents, Town Council Over Proposed ICE Processing Center

Washington, DC – Today Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), alongside Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) and U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan, sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) demanding that Secretary Noem swiftly acknowledge and respond to concerns expressed by the Merrimack Town Council regarding reports Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) plans to establish a new processing center in the town.

“As the state’s congressional delegation, we urge the Department to confirm its receipt of the Town Council’s letter as soon as possible and to give full and fair consideration to the Council’s budgetary and operational concerns,” the delegation wrote.

The delegation also pushed the Department to communicate clearly with the town regarding the proposed Merrimack processing center, writing, “We request that the Department acknowledge the Council’s letter and establish clear lines of communication with local officials as soon as possible to ensure the Council’s perspective is considered.”

Despite repeated outreach from the New Hampshire Congressional Delegation and the Town of Merrimack, DHS has yet to confirm or deny whether reports of ICE plans to establish a processing center in the town are true, or answer questions posed by the town, delegation, and residents of Merrimack.

The full letter is available below:

Dear Secretary Noem:

We write to transmit a letter from the Merrimack Town Council expressing concerns and its formal opposition to the Department of Homeland Security proposal to establish an Immigration and Customs Enforcement Processing Center in Merrimack, New Hampshire.

As the state’s congressional delegation, we urge the Department to confirm its receipt of the Town Council’s letter as soon as possible and to give full and fair consideration to the Council’s budgetary and operational concerns.

We request that the Department acknowledge the Council’s letter and establish clear lines of communication with local officials as soon as possible to ensure the Council’s perspective is considered.

We appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to your response and to meaningful engagement between the Department and the Merrimack Town Council.

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PHOTO RELEASE: Harder Celebrates Historic St. Mary’s Football State Championship Win

St. Mary’s High School brings home Stockton’s first ever State Football Championship

STOCKTON – Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) recognized St. Mary’s High School’s varsity football team for their 2025 CIF State Championship season, celebrating a historic first for both the school and the City of Stockton. Rep. Harder presented two Congressional Resolutions to honor the student athletes and the leadership of Head Coach Tony Franks.

“Stockton showed the entire state what heart, discipline, and teamwork look like,” said Rep. Harder. “I’m grateful to join the community in celebrating the accomplishments of the team, coaches, and everyone who helped make this season historic.”

Harder was joined by students from the St. Mary’s football team, coaching staff, and athletic department leadership at St. Mary’s high school.

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Congressman Pat Harrigan Announces NC-10 Congressional App Challenge Winner

Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) announced Roshan Naik, a student at Pine Lake Preparatory in Mooresville and a resident of Iredell County, as the winner of North Carolina’s 10th District Congressional App Challenge.

Roshan’s winning app, Nation Vitals, is an interactive data dashboard that helps users better understand trends in drug overdose deaths, suicide, mental health, and how those challenges intersect with factors like infrastructure, crime, politics, and demographics at the county level. Designed to be accessible and easy to use, the app gives communities and decision-makers clearer insight into issues that affect families every day.

“Roshan took on some of the hardest challenges facing our country and built a tool that helps people understand them at the local level,” said Congressman Harrigan. “Nation Vitals shows what’s possible when curiosity, technical skill, and a desire to make a difference come together. I’m incredibly proud to recognize his work and the talent coming out of our district.”

The Congressional App Challenge is a nationwide competition that encourages middle and high school students to explore coding and computer science by creating original applications. Winners from each congressional district are recognized by their Members of Congress, and selected apps may be displayed in the U.S. Capitol as part of the official Congressional App Challenge showcase.


Pablo José Hernández y Mónica Pascual anuncian el nacimiento de su hijo Vicente Rafael

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – El Comisionado Residente de Puerto Rico en Washington, D.C., Pablo José Hernández Rivera, y su esposa, la abogada Mónica Pascual, anunciaron hoy el nacimiento de su hijo, Vicente Rafael Hernández Pascual.

El bebé nació en San Juan, Puerto Rico, hoy miércoles, 28 de enero de 2026 a las 9:17 AM y tanto él como su madre se encuentran en buen estado de salud.

“Mónica y yo estamos sumamente emocionados con el cambio y la esperanza que ha llegado a nuestras vidas. Agradecemos todas las oraciones y el apoyo que hemos recibido de los doctores, enfermeros, familiares y amigos durante este proceso.”

Por su parte, Mónica Pascual compartió: “No hay palabras para describir la emoción de tenerlo en mis brazos. Estamos llenos de amor, de gratitud, y muy ilusionados por lo que viene”.

Vicente Rafael lleva los nombres de sus bisabuelos, Adrián Vicente Mercado y Rafael Hernández Colón. La familia agradece las muestras de cariño que ha recibido y solicita espacio para disfrutar en privado de esta nueva etapa.

Hernández informó que tomará tres semanas de licencia de paternidad para acompañar a su esposa e hijo en Puerto Rico, y que durante el periodo trabajará desde su hogar y oficina de distrito.

El Comisionado Residente dedicará este tiempo a estar con su familia. El trabajo de la Oficina del Comisionado Residente continuará sin interrupciones. Sus oficinas en Washington, DC, y en Caguas permanecerán abiertas y continuarán operando con normalidad para atender al pueblo de Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico’s Federal Representative Announces the Birth of His First Child, Vicente Rafael

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico - The Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico, Pablo José Hernández, and his wife, attorney Mónica Pascual, announced today the birth of their son, Vicente Rafael Hernández Pascual.

The baby was born today, Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 9:17 a.m. in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Both he and his mother are in good health

“Mónica and I are incredibly excited about the change and hope that has come into our lives. We are grateful for all the prayers and support we have received from doctors, nurses, family members, and friends throughout this process.”

Mónica Pascual added: “There are no words to describe the emotion of holding him in my arms. We are filled with love and gratitude, and very excited for what lies ahead.”

Vicente Rafael was named after his great-grandfathers, Adrián Vicente Mercado and Rafael Hernández Colón. The family thanks everyone for the expressions of affection and asks for space to privately enjoy this new stage in their lives.

The Resident Commissioner will take three weeks of paternity leave to be with his wife and son in Puerto Rico, and during that period he will work from home and from his district office. The work of the Office of the Resident Commissioner will continue without interruption. His offices in Washington, D.C., and in Caguas will remain open and will continue operating normally to serve the people of Puerto Rico.


Horsford Delivered $3.2 Million to Strengthen Transportation Infrastructure Across NV-04

WASHINGTON D.C. – Congressman Steven Horsford (NV-04) voted in favor of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026, a bipartisan funding package that invests in public health, affordable housing, child care, and safe transportation infrastructure – while rejecting harmful cuts that would have raised costs for working families.

The legislation includes nearly $3.2 million secured by Congressman Horsford for community-driven transportation projects benefiting communities across Nevada’s Fourth Congressional District, part of more than $10.2 million in total funding delivered for local priorities.

“This bill delivers real results for Nevada,” said Rep. Horsford. “It protects families from reckless cuts, supports our servicemembers, and makes smart investments that keep our communities safe and moving. From safer school zones to stronger roads so first responders can reach people faster, these are practical projects that improve daily life for working families across NV-04.”

Congressman Horsford’s top priority is delivering real investments that improve everyday life for families across the district. This funding will strengthen safety, improve mobility, and ensure infrastructure keeps pace with the needs of fast-growing communities across Southern Nevada and rural parts of the district.

In addition to funding, the package includes several critical health care policies that were previously blocked in late 2024. As families and providers continue to feel the effects of historic health care cuts, Congressional Democrats worked to protect patients and affordability by:

Eliminating two years and $16 billion in hospital cuts safeguarding facilities that serve vulnerable and rural populations;

Expanding access to primary care through $4.6 billion in new funding for community health centers, the largest mandatory increase in a decade;

Cracking down on Pharmacy Benefit Manager abuses by increasing transparency and accountability to lower drug costs and protect community pharmacies;

Ensuring children on Medicaid can access timely, specialized out-of-state care when needed;

Lowering prescription drug costs by guaranteeing no-cost generic medications for low-income seniors and people with disabilities and accelerating access to affordable generics;

Strengthening the health care workforce through investments in the National Health Service Corps, Teaching Health Centers, and nearly $2 billion in value-based Medicare physician payments; and

Extending key health care programs to provide stability for patients and providers, including telehealth, rural hospital support, community Medicare counseling, maternal and infant health programs, and the behavioral health workforce.

“These investments show what’s possible when we put people first instead of special interests,” Rep. Horsford said. “I’ll keep fighting to lower costs, protect health care, and deliver real results for Nevada families.”

Secured Community Funded Projects include:

Project Recipient

Project Description

Amount

Clark County Department of AviationThis project will reconstruct Phase 2 of the Airfield Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) Station at Harry Reid International Airport. The existing facility, built around 1982, no longer meets current FAA standards. The project will modernize ARFF operations to meet today’s safety, operational, and environmental requirements at Nevada’s busiest commercial airport, which served a record 58.4 million passengers in 2024.$850,000Nevada Department of TransportationThis project will preserve SR 596 (Jones Boulevard) through milling and filling, roadbed modifications, improved lighting, and ADA upgrades. Safety improvements include new center barrier rails and reduced lane widths to slow traffic and protect vulnerable road users. Enhanced lighting and ADA features will significantly improve nighttime safety and expedite the implementation of proven safety countermeasures.$250,000City of Las VegasThis project will transform Bonanza Road to better serve pedestrians, cyclists, transit users, and drivers in the Historic Westside Community. Improvements include pavement rehabilitation, traffic signal upgrades, bicycle lanes, widened sidewalks, street trees, upgraded lighting, and other federal safety countermeasures. These investments will reduce fatal and serious crashes while improving mobility and quality of life for residents and workers.$250,000Nevada Department of TransportationThis project will reconstruct US 6 through downtown Tonopah to promote safer travel speeds and improved operations. Work includes roadway reconstruction, a new storm drain system, installation of an ITS trunk line, and Complete Streets elements. These upgrades will enhance safety and resilience, particularly near the local high school, and are a top priority for Tonopah and Nye County.$850,000Regional Transportation Commission of Southern NevadaThis project will install new dual-direction transit shelters that provide shade and cooling along major Las Vegas arterial roadways. The RTC will coordinate with local jurisdictions to replace shelters and reconstruct pads and sidewalks as needed. The project will leverage RTC’s experience and administrative capacity to meet federal and local right-of-way requirements.$250,000City of North Las VegasThis project will deliver safety upgrades at 281 school zone locations as part of the City’s Vision Zero Action Plan to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2050. Funding will support citywide upgrades to school flasher systems and the installation of federally approved safety countermeasures, including improved crosswalk visibility. These improvements will benefit dozens of schools across Nevada’s 4th District, enhancing safety for students and families.$500,000Clark County, NevadaThis project will install energy-efficient LED lighting at 10 locations across Clark County. Existing metal halide fixtures will be replaced with LEDs that use 50–80 percent less energy while improving visibility and public safety. The project will deliver significant regional safety benefits, particularly in low-income communities.$250,000

More information is available here.

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