Hoyer Statement on President Trump's State of the Union Address

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement tonight in response to President Donald Trump's State of the Union Address:

“I have never seen someone use so many words to say so little. In his State of the Union tonight, Trump offered Americans the same thing he always does: more disdain, more confrontation, more division, more disorder. What he didn't offer was any solution to the problems that he promised to resolve in his first year in office. Indeed, he continues to make those problems – and Americans’ lives – worse.

"America has become even less affordable in the past year. Trump's tariffs have raised costs on everything from groceries to clothing to other household essentials, taking an average of $2,000 dollars out of the pockets of working families in Maryland's Fifth District annually. Nearly 19,800 people in my district will lose health coverage because of the Trump Administration's cuts to Medicaid and its decision to end the tax credits for the Affordable Care Act. If that weren't bad enough, Republicans' so-called 'One Big Beautiful Bill' gave millionaires and billionaires trillions of dollars in tax breaks, helping them get farther ahead by making working Americans fall farther behind.

"Abroad, Trump is making America into a pariah on the world stage. Instead of ending the war in Ukraine on his first day in office, he has prolonged it through his futile effort to appease Vladimir Putin. His saber rattling makes America less secure by alienating our allies and emboldening our adversaries.

"Tonight, we saw the ramblings of a president who is completely oblivious to the pain so many of our fellow citizens feel. Their approval of his handling of everything from the economy to immigration is cratering. They understand the perilous state of our union. Trump does not."


Huffman Joins California Lawmakers in Push to Protect California Coast from New Oil Drilling

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Jared Huffman (CA-02), along with U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Adam Schiff (D-CA), joined their colleagues in sending a letter to the Trump administration opposing the development of new offshore oil and gas leases in the Southern and Central California Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) planning areas and to extend the current public comment period by 90 days.

The Trump administration’s plan proposes opening vast swaths of previously protected federal waters to new oil and gas drilling for the first time in over 40 years, disregarding bipartisan opposition.

“California’s coastal economy supports roughly 511,000 jobs and generates over $51.3 billion in GDP from marine-economy activities — largely in tourism and recreation — meaning that new offshore drilling could jeopardize the livelihoods of thousands of working families,” wrote the lawmakers. “The 2015 Refugio oil spill and the 2021 Huntington Beach oil spill further underscored the ongoing risks of offshore drilling and reinforced our strong opposition to any expansion of offshore oil and gas development.”

The lawmakers went on to highlight the risks offshore oil and gas development off the Southern and Central California coast poses to military readiness.

“Introducing additional offshore drilling infrastructure and associated hazardous materials into this already congested and mission-critical maritime space would increase operational risk, complicate training and testing activities, and heighten the potential for catastrophic consequences in the event of a spill—placing both military personnel and national security interests at unnecessary risk,” continued the lawmakers.

The lawmakers closed by emphasizing that concerns over the administration’s leasing plan are shared across party lines, and they urged the administration to extend the current public comment period.

“The administration’s leasing plan is a significant concern to Californians regardless of political affiliation, as both Democratic- and Republican-led cities have passed resolutions opposing new drilling in the Pacific. Moreover, our constituents have just engaged in a robust 60-day public review of the five-year offshore leasing plan released on November 24, 2025 and closed January 23, 2026—where they submitted hundreds of thousands of comments during that period. Many of those comments directly addressed federal oil and gas leasing in the Pacific and the associated risks to coastal ecosystems and local economies,” wrote the lawmakers. “For these reasons, we respectfully request a 90-day extension of the current public comment period on offshore oil and gas leasing in the Southern and Central California OCS Planning Areas. An extension will ensure that residents, local governments, Tribal Nations, small businesses, fishermen, environmental groups, and other stakeholders have adequate opportunity to review the proposal and submit comprehensive feedback that reflects the breadth of impacts this decision would entail.”

California’s push to limit new offshore drilling dates back to 1969, when an oil rig off the coast of Santa Barbara leaked 3 million gallons of crude oil into the ocean, blanketing beaches with a thick layer of oil and killing thousands of marine mammals and birds. That disaster remained the nation’s worst oil spill until the Exxon Valdez incident two decades later. More recently, incidents like the 2015 Refugio State Beach and the 2021 Huntington Beach oil spills have underscored how risky additional offshore drilling can be for coastal communities.

Full text of the letter is available here and below:

Dear Mr. President and Secretary Burgum:

As Members of the California Congressional Delegation, we write in strong opposition to the inclusion of the Southern California and Central California Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Planning Areas in the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management’s (BOEM) ongoing offshore oil and gas leasing process. The recent announcement of a public comment period on potential leasing in these regions — separate from the 60-day comment period that concluded on January 23, 2026 for the Draft Proposed Program (DPP) of the 11th National OCS Oil and Gas Leasing Program — has raised significant concerns among our constituents and stakeholders.

Since the devastating 1969 oil spill in Santa Barbara, California, there has not been a new or expanded lease in California state waters since 1969 or one in federal waters since 1984. This is in recognition that the waters off the coasts of Southern and Central California are economically and ecologically invaluable. Across the country, many of our communities depend on recreational and commercial fishing, tourism, outdoor recreation, and other industries that can be directly harmed by incompatible energy development. California’s coastal economy supports roughly 511,000 jobs and generates over $51.3 billion in GDP from marine-economy activities — largely in tourism and recreation — meaning that new offshore drilling could jeopardize the livelihoods of thousands of working families. The 2015 Refugio oil spill and the 2021 Huntington Beach oil spill further underscored the ongoing risks of offshore drilling and reinforced our strong opposition to any expansion of offshore oil and gas development.

In addition to the environmental and economic risks, offshore oil and gas development in the Southern and Central California OCS Planning Areas poses serious threats to military readiness and national security. California is home to the largest concentration of military forces in the nation, including more than 30 major installations and over 200,000 active-duty and reserve personnel. The Southern California coast supports some of the military’s most critical training and readiness activities, including multiple offshore range complexes and testing areas that span more than 156,000 square nautical miles.

These waters are essential to the operations of the U.S. Navy’s Third Fleet and the First Marine Expeditionary Force, which together form a cornerstone of U.S. power projection in the Pacific. Introducing additional offshore drilling infrastructure and associated hazardous materials into this already congested and mission-critical maritime space would increase operational risk, complicate training and testing activities, and heighten the potential for catastrophic consequences in the event of a spill—placing both military personnel and national security interests at unnecessary risk.

The administration’s leasing plan is a significant concern to Californians regardless of political affiliation, as both Democratic- and Republican-led cities have passed resolutions opposing new drilling in the Pacific. Moreover, our constituents have just engaged in a robust 60-day public review of the five-year offshore leasing plan released on November 24, 2025 and closed January 23, 2026—where they submitted hundreds of thousands of comments during that period. Many of those comments directly addressed federal oil and gas leasing in the Pacific and the associated risks to coastal ecosystems and local economies.

For these reasons, we respectfully request a 90-day extension of the current public comment period on offshore oil and gas leasing in the Southern and Central California OCS Planning Areas. An extension will ensure that residents, local governments, Tribal Nations, small businesses, fishermen, environmental groups, and other stakeholders have adequate opportunity to review the proposal and submit comprehensive feedback that reflects the breadth of impacts this decision would entail.

We urge your Administration to consider this extension in the interest of transparency and meaningful public participation. And, as you continue to consider new drilling in the Southern and Central California OCS planning areas—we are categorically opposed to any new drilling. Instead, we urge your Administration to abandon these proposals in recognition of the unacceptable risks they pose to coastal communities, our regional and local economies, and national security.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

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Ranking Member Huffman Statement on Trump’s Latest Attack on NEPA, Public Input

Washington, D.C. – Today, House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-Calif.) condemned the Department of the Interior’s final rule gutting National Environmental Policy Act procedures for public lands.

“The Trump administration’s final rule sharply limits the public’s ability to engage with decisions that affect public lands, which belong to every American,” said Ranking Member Huffman. “By weakening transparency and public engagement, this rule takes away the very safeguards that ensure public lands are managed in the public interest, rather than sold off to the highest bidder for private gain.

“This final rule makes it even easier for this administration to abuse emergency procedures under its unlawful so-called "energy emergency," eliminates the requirement for Interior to publish draft Environmental Impact Statements, and closes its eyes to climate and environmental justice impacts, among other erosions of the bedrock environmental law.

“NEPA protects not only the environment, but every person who enjoys and depends on safe, thriving ecosystems. Cutting them out of the process and fast tracking dangerous, polluting projects will make everyone worse off.”

Background

Signed into law in 1970, NEPA is a cornerstone of environmental protection and government transparency, ensuring that federal agencies evaluate the environmental and public health impacts of major projects before moving forward. In February 2025, the Trump administration rescinded the Council on Environmental Quality’s unified NEPA rules, directing agencies to issue their own versions.

On July 3, 2025, Interior and USDA issued separate interim final rules (IFRs) that severely limit public comment, eliminate draft environmental impact statements, and allow agencies to skip analysis of climate change, cumulative impacts, and environmental justice. The public was given just 30 days to comment on each.

In formal comments to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, Ranking Member Huffman and fellow Natural Resources Committee Democrats blasted the Departments’ rushed and sweeping rollback of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) — calling it a “dangerous” effort to shut the public out of federal decision-making and greenlight polluting projects behind closed doors.

Today’s final rule largely adopts last summer’s draft. The draft cut close to one-sixth of the agency’s regulations implementing NEPA and rescinds more than 80 percent of Interior’s prior NEPA regulations.

This approach — with each agency adopting its own rules and regulations — is legally risky and will delay,?not?speed up, project delivery. Data shows that permitting times fell under the Biden administration after Congressional Democrats invested over $1 billion in agency capacity through the Inflation Reduction Act. That funding has since been slashed by the Trump administration.

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LEADER JEFFRIES: “DONALD TRUMP’S PRESIDENCY HAS BEEN A FAILURE”

Last night, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360 and MS NOW’s The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell to highlight the real State of the Union under Donald Trump and Rubber Stamp Republicans, who have abdicated their responsibilities to make life better for hardworking American taxpayers.

JOHN BERMAN: Joining us now is House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York, who has lived through the storm either here or in Washington today. You can’t avoid it no matter where you go. Listen, Leader, you’ve seen the new CNN poll. You see that a majority of Americans want to hear about the economy, want to hear about cost of living. You heard the President say we have the greatest economy we’ve ever had. What are Democrats offering as an alternative vision tomorrow night?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, first of all, Donald Trump’s presidency has been a complete and total failure. He’s failed on the economy, failed to lower costs. He’s failed to fix our broken healthcare system and address the Republican healthcare crisis. He certainly has failed to deliver an immigration enforcement system that’s fair, just and humane. ICE is completely, totally out of control, and they need to be reined in. From our perspective, as Democrats, we are laser-focused on driving down the high cost of living, making life more affordable for the American people. We recognize that far too many people in this country are struggling to live paycheck to paycheck, can’t thrive and can barely survive. And that’s not acceptable in this great country of ours, the wealthiest country in the history of the world.

JOHN BERMAN: We were just talking about Iran. Kaitlan was giving us some reporting on what the White House has been saying about that. The Joint Chiefs reportedly raising some concerns about a possible U.S. strike and how difficult it would be. What do you want to hear from the President tomorrow night in terms of a possible justification for military action?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, we will have a Gang of Eight briefing at some point during the day, prior to the remarks that he delivers to the American people. I think the American people are appropriately skeptical of any further military action. The last thing that we need at this time is another failed foreign forever war that the United States of America is involved in that will be costly in terms of American lives and costly in terms of American resources. We should be using taxpayer dollars right now to make life more affordable for the American people, as opposed to engaging in another reckless adventure. And by the way, the Trump administration should not take any unilateral military action without explicit congressional approval, consistent with the Constitution and Congress’s sole authority to declare war.

JOHN BERMAN: As for tomorrow night, you’ve given Democratic Members the option to skip the event if they want to. For those who choose to attend, how would you like to see them behave?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, listen, it’s my expectation that Members who choose to attend will be there in silent defiance, of course, skeptical of the remarks that the President is going to try to deliver in terms of his spin. But he’s not going to be able to spin his way out of the failures that have occurred over the last 400 days or so in terms of Donald Trump’s presidency. This is someone who promised to lower costs on day one, but costs haven’t gone down in the United States of America. Costs have gone up. The affordability crisis is not a Democratic hoax, as the President claims. It’s very real. Housing costs out of control. Healthcare costs out of control. Grocery prices out of control. Utility costs and electricity bills out of control. Child care costs out of control. And the President has done nothing about it. In fact, the Trump tariffs have made the situation worse.

Full CNN interview can be watched here.

***

LAWRENCE O’DONNELL: Leading off our discussion tonight is House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Thank you very much for joining us tonight, Mr. Leader. I’d like to get your reaction to the Supreme Court decision on Donald Trump’s illegal tariffs.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, the Supreme Court absolutely did the right thing here. The Trump tariffs have been a major cost upon the American people. We think the average cost is about $1700 more in additional expense on everyday Americans. This is in an environment where the affordability crisis is already out of control. And of course as you pointed out, Lawrence, Donald Trump had zero authority to do this. This was unlawful and unconstitutional. And now the question is, how do we make sure, congressionally, that the businesses and the consumers and the farmers who were adversely impacted by the Trump tariffs can get their money back?

LAWRENCE O’DONNELL: The Trump administration is saying well they’ll just have to go to court to try to get their money back.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, what the Supreme Court decision said is that the process will be set forth by the lower court and so we’ll await the lower decision. At the same period of time, legislation has been introduced by Democrats in both the House and the Senate to try to create a mechanism to ensure that refunds are issued and that we can find a way for some of the harm that has been done to everyday Americans to be repaired.

LAWRENCE O’DONNELL: So, we saw in polling about two-thirds of Americans were opposed to the Trump tariffs before they knew from the Supreme Court that the tariffs were unconstitutional and illegal, tariffs that these people have already paid.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, I think Donald Trump underestimated the American people. He promised that he would lower costs on day one. Of course, costs haven’t gone down. Costs have gone up. The American people know that Republicans haven’t done a damn thing to make their life more affordable in an environment where far too many people are working hard. They’re playing by the rules. But they’re struggling to live paycheck to paycheck. Cannot thrive and can barely survive. That’s an unacceptable situation in the United States of America, the wealthiest country in the history of the world. And they know that the Trumps tariffs, by way of example, have made things worse from a President who promised to make things better. As Democrats, you know, we are going to continue to focus on driving down the high cost of living, dealing with a housing crisis, a healthcare crisis, a child care crisis, a utility bill crisis and a grocery bill crisis all at the same time that Donald Trump and Republican policies have made worse.

LAWRENCE O’DONNELL: What would you suggest voters focus on in the State of the Union address tomorrow night?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, if Donald Trump was actually being authentic to the American people—and we know that’s not going to be the case—he would acknowledge that his presidency has been a failure over the last 400-plus days. He’s failed on the economy. He’s failed on healthcare. He’s failed on immigration. ICE is completely and totally out of control. They need to be reined in. Taxpayer dollars should be spent to make life more affordable for the American people, not brutalize or kill them, as has been the case tragically with Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti. But we know Donald Trump is not going to acknowledge any of this. In fact, what he’s probably going to suggest is that he has solved the affordability crisis. But this is one of the reasons why we’re seeing presidential approval numbers that are at historic lows. Latinos abandoning Donald Trump in large numbers. Younger voters doing the same thing. Independents doing exactly the same thing. Now, Donald Trump has taken a my-way-or-the-highway approach from the very beginning, and that has failed the American people. We should see whether he comes before the Congress tomorrow and offers to change direction, but I’m not holding my breath.

LAWRENCE O’DONNELL: The Epstein Files obviously is gripping the United Kingdom as much as the United States. We have seen arrests there. We’re going to talk about that later in this program, but what would you, what should Donald Trump say tomorrow night about the Epstein Files given the country’s interest in it.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, he should direct his so-called Department of Justice to release all of the files in compliance with the law that he signed. The reality is the Department of Justice is withholding about three million documents from the American people. We’re thankful for the bravery and the courage and the strength of the Epstein survivors, many of whom will be in that chamber tomorrow. He should promise them the accountability and the transparency that they have fought hard to achieve.

LAWRENCE O’DONNELL: Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, the next Speaker of the House if the Democrats win the congressional elections. Thank you very much for leading off our discussion tonight.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you.

Full MS NOW interview can be watched here.

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LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT ON DONALD TRUMP’S STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS

Know Your Immigration Rights

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

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

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

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

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


LEADER JEFFRIES: “THE STATE OF OUR UNION UNDER DONALD TRUMP’S PRESIDENCY HAS BEEN A COMPLETE AND TOTAL DISASTER”


Brownley Boycotts State of the Union

Washington, DC — Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) announced that she will not attend tonight’s State of the Union. While she holds deep respect for the institution of Congress and the responsibility it carries, she said she cannot participate in what has become a platform for President Donald Trump’s continued assault on the Constitution, the rule of law, and the American people.

“I respect this institution and the oath we take to uphold the Constitution. But I will not sit in the House Chamber and legitimize the lies, lawlessness, and cruelty that define this administration.

“While Donald Trump attempts to rewrite reality and tout achievements that bear no resemblance to the lived experiences of the American people, families across this country are struggling to keep up. Costs are rising. Health care and food assistance are under attack. His reckless economic agenda has deepened inequality and funneled wealth upward, leaving working families to shoulder the burden.

“The cruelty and chaos this administration has imposed on our communities, particularly immigrants, communities of color, and other marginalized Americans, is unconscionable. Trump’s brutal immigration enforcement operations have spread fear across neighborhoods in my district and across the country. Due process has been trampled. Congressional authority has been undermined. Accountability has been ignored.

“I was elected to stand with the people I represent, and I will not be complicit in normalizing corruption and abuse of power. President Trump has disgraced the office he holds, and I refuse to pretend otherwise.

“That is why I am boycotting the State of the Union and giving space to Lara Blume McGee, an Epstein survivor and courageous advocate for truth and justice. Lara’s presence, and the presence of other survivors in the chamber, is a powerful reminder that their voices will not be silenced.

“I will continue to fight for accountability, for transparency, and for the communities this administration has targeted. No matter how loudly this administration distorts the truth, we will not stop standing up for what is right.”

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Brownley, New Dem Colleagues Call on Trump Admin to Refund His Illegal Tariffs Ahead of State of the Union

Washington, DC — Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26) joined New Democrat Coalition Trade & Tariffs Task Force Chair Don Beyer (VA-08), Former New Dem Chair Rep. Suzan DelBene (WA-01), and 44 New Dems in a letter to the Trump administration demanding answers and transparency on their plans to refund the $175 billion in illegal tariffs that raised the cost of groceries, household goods, housing, and everyday life for working Americans.

This follows the Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision that the President violated federal law by illegally exceeding his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose sweeping tariffs. Chair Beyer previously called on the Supreme Court to limit the President’s use of emergency powers following oral arguments in this case last November and celebrated the Court’s ruling last week.

The letter reads in part:

“The economic damage President Trump has already done to business investment, manufacturing, relationships with our allies and trading partners, and working families’ budgets will linger for years to come. We are also deeply concerned by the President’s intention to impose new tariffs under Sections 122 and 301 of the 1974 Trade Act to replace his illegal IEEPA tariffs which are sure to exact even more economic harm on the American people… President Trump must set aside his erratic tariff policy and instead pursue a trade agenda that protects workers, supports manufacturers and other exporters, and does not punish Americans who are already struggling with persistently high prices for everyday goods.”

Consumers and small businesses bore the brunt of Trump’s inflationary illegal tariffs, but the administration has yet to lay out any plans to refund them for their lost money. Instead of creating the “millions and millions” of jobs and “manufacturing boom” President Trump promised, his tariffs led to the worst non-recession year for job creation in more than 20 years, as companies laid off more than 1 million workers and eliminated more than 100,000 manufacturing jobs.

The full letter can be read here, and below:

Secretary Scott Bessent

Department of the Treasury

1500 Pennsylvania Ave. NW

Washington, DC 20220

Ambassador Jamieson Greer

Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

600 17th St. NW

Washington, DC 20508

Commissioner Rodney Scott

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW

Washington, DC 20004

Dear Secretary Bessent, Ambassador Greer, and Commissioner Scott,

We write in response to the Supreme Court’s recent 6-3 decision striking down President Trump’s tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The Court’s ruling in Learning Resources Inc., et al. v. Donald J. Trump, President of the United States, et al. clarifies that the President exceeded his authority under IEEPA through the imposition of these duties. Many questions remain that have important implications for American businesses, consumers, and U.S. trade policy going forward.

As Members of the New Democrat Coalition, we applaud the ruling. However, the economic damage President Trump has already done to business investment, manufacturing, relationships with our allies and trading partners, and working families’ budgets will linger for years to come. We are also deeply concerned by the President’s intention to impose new tariffs under Sections 122 and 301 of the 1974 Trade Act to replace his illegal IEEPA tariffs which are sure to exact even more economic harm on the American people. Even though refunds for impacted businesses should not take long to process, there is little reason to believe companies will pass the bulk of those savings on to consumers.

With the total amount to be refunded estimated at $175 billion, there are real concerns regarding how refunds will be processed, how quickly relief will reach affected businesses, and whether the system will function equitably, particularly for small businesses. Businesses that played by the rules should not be left navigating a confusing or delayed refund process because of the Administration’s unlawful actions. In addition, because the President’s illegal IEEPA tariffs formed the basis for many of the trade deals and frameworks negotiated since January 2025, it is unclear how the Administration will approach these and future trade agreements. Businesses and trading partners alike need clarity on how this ruling affects current deals, frameworks, and ongoing negotiations, as well as how the Administration intends to proceed in a manner consistent with statutory authority and long-term U.S. economic interests.

Accordingly, we respectfully request responses to the following questions no later than March 20, 2026:

Please provide detailed information on the process for issuing refunds to businesses that paid IEEPA tariffs and are impacted by the Court’s decision, including timelines, administrative steps, and how the Administration will ensure small businesses can effectively access refunds.

Will technical assistance or guidance be provided to help businesses navigate the refund process?

What steps is the Administration taking to ensure there are no delays from sending out refunds to businesses?

How does the Administration plan to mitigate ongoing price impacts?

How will the Court’s ruling affect existing trade deals, enforcement frameworks, and ongoing or future negotiations with trading partners?

What internal review or interagency processes will be implemented to ensure future trade actions are firmly grounded in statutory authority?

President Trump must set aside his erratic tariff policy and instead pursue a trade agenda that protects workers, supports manufacturers and other exporters, and does not punish Americans who are already struggling with persistently high prices for everyday goods. We expect transparency, accountability, and timely engagement from the Administration as it responds to the Court’s decision and works to mitigate the economic harm already incurred. We look forward to your prompt response.

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Ukraine Caucus Statement On Fourth Anniversary Of Russia's Full Scale Invasion Of Ukraine

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Congressman Mike Quigley (IL-05), and Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02), Co-Chairs of the 100-member bipartisan Congressional Ukraine Caucus, issued the following statement in recognition of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine, marking twelve years since Russia launched its war to dominate the Ukrainian people, erase their unique identity, and extinguish their democracy.

“Four years ago, Vladimir Putin believed the nation of Ukraine would greet his invaders as liberators and subject themselves to his tyrannical and bloody rule. He was wrong. Through extraordinary courage, immeasurable sacrifice, and inspiring resilience, the Ukrainian people have shown the world that they will never surrender their liberty. Tonight, in solidarity with the people of Ukraine, we will wear blue and yellow to the State of the Union, as a visible reminder that freedom’s fight is not theirs alone.

“As we celebrate 250 years of American independence, we see reflected in Ukraine the same timeless truth that forged our own great Republic—that free people will rise to cast off foreign rule and preserve their own democratic experiment.

“Ukrainians continue to prove that a young democracy can hold the line against the forces of tyranny—but it is up to us as Americans to help them prove that democracy can win.

“This is a critical moment. Russia has deliberately targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure in a barbaric attempt to freeze families into submission and break the nation’s will. The United States must expedite assistance necessary to help them weather this storm. A stronger Ukraine strengthens President Trump’s efforts in securing an end to this war.

“Russia is not winning. Since 2022, Putin’s invasion forces have suffered approximately 1.2 million casualties. In December 2025 alone, Russian forces suffered 35,000 casualties—a single month eclipsing the Soviet Union’s total casualties over a decade in Afghanistan.

“Russia’s staggering losses are not leading to meaningful gains on the battlefield, and Dictator Putin hopes that the Kremlin can win at the negotiating table what it cannot take from Ukraine by force.

“Peace will not come through concession to aggression. It will come through strength. As President Trump pushes for a negotiated settlement, his hand is only strengthened by levying new sanctions to constrain Russia’s war machine while strengthening Ukraine’s position through arms and the support necessary to survive Russia’s onslaught.

“There’s a reason the story of Ukraine’s resistance resonates so deeply with Americans. Just as American patriots took up arms 250 years ago to defend their way of life and forge a historic democracy, Ukrainian patriots fight that same struggle today. Their success, with America’s support, will strengthen our nations and reaffirm that the cause of freedom, though tested, will always triumph.”


Whip Clark Statement on Not Attending State of The Union

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) issued the following statement:

“I will not be attending the State of the Union tonight.

“Rather than listen to Donald Trump lie to the American people, I will be hearing from the people of my district about their personal experiences with skyrocketing costs, new barriers to health care, dismantled Social Security services, and brutal cuts to medical research.

“Donald Trump vowed to cut prices on day one and make life more affordable. Instead, at every turn, he has rigged the system against working people. He cut trillions from health care, closed rural hospitals, and hiked insurance premium costs — all to lower taxes for the billionaire class. He implemented illegal tariffs that have devastated small businesses and driven up the cost of groceries, housing, insurance, and utilities.

“Trump promised to make our country safer and go after the ‘worst of the worst.’ But instead, he has allowed ICE to terrorize communities and even endorsed the killing of American citizens in broad daylight. He told us he would hand justice to the survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s horrendous abuse. Yet now, he is standing in the way of truth and transparency.

“Donald Trump’s presidency has been one broken promise after another, and the people of this country and the Commonwealth deserve so much better.”

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Rep. Mike Kelly statement on President Trump's State of the Union Address

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February 24, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA), Chairman of the Ways & Means Subcommittee on Tax, released this statement following President Donald Trump's State of the Union Address Tuesday night.

"In just his first year back in the White House, President Trump and his America First agenda have restored American greatness both at home and abroad. I was honored to work with the President to craft common sense, pro-growth tax policy in the Working Families Tax Cuts, which are now delivering historic returns for hardworking Pennsylvania families," said Rep. Kelly. "America is stronger, more prosperous, and more respected around the world than it was just one year ago. As we look forward to our Nation's 250th anniversary, I look forward to working with President Trump to address the critical issues facing the American people."

BACKGROUND

In President Trump's first year, Rep. Kelly has worked alongside the President and his administration on major pieces of legislation and issues impacting Pennsylvanians:

July 2025 -- Rep. Kelly votes for the Working Families Tax Cuts, also known as the "One Big Beautiful Bill." The law includes Kelly's legislation that made permanent and expanded Opportunity Zones legislation to improve communities and neighborhoods; and, his legislation to allow taxpayers to deduct their auto loan interest.

February 2026 -- Rep. Kelly joins President Trump at the White House to tout clean American coal and Pennsylvania energy production. Pennsylvania is the third-largest coal producing state in the country.

November 2025 -- The Trump administration announced a deal to lower the cost of popular GLP-1 weight loss drugs, Wegovy and Zepbound. The announcement builds upon Kelly's legislation, the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act, bipartisan legislation to combat the obesity crisis in the United States by providing Medicare coverage of GLP-1s.

May 2025 -- Rep. Kelly welcomes U.S. Secretary of Housing & Urban Development Scott Turner to Erie to tour the city's Opportunity Zones and other housing initiatives.

December 2025-- Joined President Trump to announce executive actions to roll back costly and unlawful Biden-era CAFE Standards.

March 2025 -- Rep. Kelly and Speaker Johnson led Members of Congress to welcome President Trump and Irish leaders to Capitol Hill for the annual St. Patrick's Day luncheon.

Fast Facts: Working Families Tax Cuts

Largest Tax Refund Filing Season Ever: Thanks to the Working Families Tax Cuts, taxpayers could get an average of $1,000 MORE in their tax refund this tax filing season. Refunds could total almost $4,000 per person on average, putting more money back in the pockets of working families. Average refund amounts are up 14% so far this tax filing season.

No Federal Tax Liability for Working Families: A family of four with two children earning up to $73,000 could have no federal tax liability because of the bigger standard deduction and bigger Child Tax Credit

No Tax on Tips: Waitresses, barbers, bellhops, and other tipped professions could see their taxes cut $1,300.

No Tax on Overtime: Welders, linemen, factory workers, and over workers earning overtime could see their taxes cut $1,400.

No Tax on Social Security: 88% of seniors receiving Social Security benefits will pay no tax on their benefits under the WFTC.

$6,000 deduction for seniors 65+/$12,000 for married couple

Trump Accounts: Each newborn baby will receive $1,000 in an investment account to support that child’s future.

Bigger Child Tax Credit: Credit increased to $2,200 per child and indexed to inflation so the credit never loses value.

Bigger Standard Deduction: Boosted to $31,500 for a married family, making tax filing simpler for the 91% of taxpayers who use this deduction.

Childcare Relief Lowers Costs: More access to the Adoption Tax Credit, Paid Leave Tax Credit, Child/Dependent Care Credit, and Employer-Provided Childcare Credit help lower the cost of parents taking care of their families.

Small Businesses: Permanency of the 20 percent small business deduction allows 30 million small businesses to make payroll, hire new employees, and expand their business.

20 percent small business deduction will create an estimated 1 million new small business jobs each year over the next 10 years and 2 million each following year.

Tax Relief for Rural America:2 million family farms will benefit from an increased Death Tax exemption.

Manufacturing Boom in America: President Trump’s 100% expensing for new factories, in addition with permanence of other pro-growth tax policy, will fuel a manufacturing boom.

Over 1 million manufacturing jobs are estimated to be protected or created thanks to the Working Families Tax Cuts.


I’m Boycotting the State of the Union – Here’s Why

In protest of the ongoing damage President Trump is causing to our country, I will not be attending his State of the Union address this year in person.

Trump has brought shame to our nation’s highest office. He is a convicted criminal, an authoritarian election denier, and an insurrectionist who has been the most destructive president in our nation’s history. He’s assaulting our democracy by threatening to nationalize elections while interfering with state and local administration.

Rather than offering a serious, good-faith report of the pressing issues confronting the nation, Trump will use this sacred occasion for self-promotion and turn it into a political spectacle where he incites division.

Time and again, this President has proven to be an embarrassment on the international stage. He is openly racist in his rhetoric, and someone who views public office as an opportunity to enrich himself, his family, and his billionaire friends. I cannot pay respect to someone who undermines democratic norms, erodes the rule of law, and treats the presidency as a vehicle for his personal gain rather than public service.

Instead, I will attend the People’s rally with fellow Democrats to raise awareness about how Trump’s Administration is inflicting harm on working families across America with disastrous cuts to health care, an inhumane approach to immigration, and direct threats to voting rights. We must restore balance to ensure that Congress can act as a strong check on any president who wishes to act like a dictator.

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Krishnamoorthi Announces State of the Union Guest: UIC Student Whose Father Was Detained at Broadview ICE Facility to Join the Congressman at Trump’s Address

SCHAUMBURG, IL — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08) today announced that Jaime, a University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) student and constituent whose father was detained for four days in inhumane conditions at the Broadview ICE facility — and then coerced into signing a “voluntary departure” form — will join him as his guest to President Donald Trump’s February 24 State of the Union Address.

“Donald Trump can try to rewrite his record tonight, but communities across America are living with the consequences of militarized immigration operations that have terrorized families and left Americans dead,” said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. “I’m bringing Jaime, a UIC student from my district, to the State of the Union because what happened to his father is part of a broader pattern of detainees being held in inhumane conditions, coerced into signing away their rights, and denied due process. Armed federal agents are carrying out operations in our neighborhoods without lawful restraint or accountability. I will continue working to end the Trump Administration’s abuses, restore accountability, and fight for an immigration system that actually lives up to American values.”

After federal agents seized Jaime’s father in October 2025 during the Trump Administration’s Operation Midway Blitz, he was taken to the Broadview ICE facility and held for four days in dangerously overcrowded, unsanitary conditions. Packed into a windowless room with roughly 60 men, he was denied showers, forced to sleep on the floor or standing up, and watched multiple detainees taken away on stretchers. Despite repeatedly asking to see a judge and explaining that his children were alone after their mother’s death, he was told only to sign a “voluntary departure” form — and ICE deported him the next day, even though his attorney had already secured an emergency hearing that could have halted his removal. Congressman Krishnamoorthi highlighted Jaime’s father’s experience at Broadview at an October 24 House field hearing.


Chuck Bills, President/CEO at Ohio Logistics, to Join Latta at the State of the Union Address

This evening, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) will be joined by Chuck Bills, President and CEO at Ohio Logistics, for the President’s State of the Union Address.

“I am pleased to announce that Chuck Bills, President and CEO of Ohio Logistics, will be my guest at this year’s State of the Union address. Since its founding in 1988 as a single 40,000-square-foot facility, Ohio Logistics has grown into a company that now owns and operates more than 8 million square feet across 27 locations in six states, employing over 450 associates. A steadfast leader from Findlay, Chuck has led the company with a strong commitment to innovation, growth, and supporting Ohio’s workforce. Beyond his business leadership, Chuck is also a dedicated supporter of Flag City Honor Flight, generously giving his time and resources to ensure our veterans can visit the Washington, D.C. memorials built in their honor. It is wonderful to have Chuck join me tonight, and I thank him for all he does for Ohioans,”said Latta.


Lawler, New York GOP Delegation Invites Governor Hochul to Washington for Direct Policy Discussion

Washington, D.C. – 2/24/26… Yesterday, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) and members of the New York Republican Congressional Delegation sent a letter to Kathy Hochul inviting her to Washington, D.C., for a direct, in-person meeting to address the serious challenges facing New York and to improve coordination between Albany and the state’s federal representatives.

The letter came in response to recent public claims by the Governor’s office that no request had been made to meet directly with members of the delegation. In their correspondence, the members noted that a prior written invitation was sent in February 2024 and went unanswered.

“Since you last met with us in February 2023, New York has continued its downward spiral under your failed leadership. In fact, our state has faced one crisis after the next, and in many cases, stronger coordination between Albany and Washington could have mitigated the damage. Instead, New Yorkers have been left to shoulder the consequences of continued mismanagement and a lack of effective collaboration at the highest levels of government,” wrote the lawmakers.

The delegation requested a substantive discussion on key issues affecting New Yorkers, including healthcare, energy, housing, transportation, public safety, immigration enforcement, state spending, and congressional redistricting.

“[w]e urge you to schedule travel to Washington, D.C. as soon as possible to meet with the New York Republican congressional delegation. As the only New Yorkers working in the majority in Washington, we have a real opportunity to affect policy change… Placing your trust and our state’s needs in Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries has been wasted energy and effort. Time and again, the issues most critical to our state have gone unresolved, while opportunities to secure real progress have been missed. Continued reliance on ineffective leadership is not a strategy, and New Yorkers deserve far better,” concluded the lawmakers.

The letter was cosigned by Reps. Nick LaLota (NY-01), Nick A. Langworthy (NY-23), Andrew R. Garbarino (NY-02), Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), and Elise Stefanik (NY-21). The full letter can be found HERE. Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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Lofgren to Attend State of the Union Address with Local Grocer

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) will be attending President Donald Trump's State of the Union address with guest Lupe Lopez, co-founder of Arteaga's Food Center, based in Gilroy, California.

"Today marks Trump's 400th day in office, and it has been 400 days of disaster for the American economy," Rep. Lofgren said. "Will he use the State of the Union tonight to try and put a positive spin on this mess he's created? The American people are feeling the consequences of Republicans' harmful policies. They feel it every time they go to the grocery store and are crushed by Trump's illegal tariffs that raise the price of everyday goods. I am happy to have Lupe Lopez joining me, a local grocer who has seen firsthand the impacts of Trump's reckless and unconstitutional tariffs."

"As an independent grocer, I see my customers struggling every day to keep food on the table and to pay for housing and electricity," Lupe Lopez said. "I hope Donald Trump will present a clear plan to bring real relief to our working families by lowering grocery costs, eliminating burdensome tariffs, addressing excessive credit card processing fees, and reducing energy expenses."

The typical American family spent $310 more for groceries during Trump's first year in office compared to 2024. This includes $76 more for ground coffee, $71 more for raw ground beef, and $52 more for eggs. Despite this, President Trump has claimed that the affordability crisis he has fueled is a Democratic "hoax".

Lopez, in addition to being co-founder of Arteaga's Food Center, serves as Chair of the Government Relations Committee for the National Grocers Association (NGA). She was also chosen as the 2018 Women of the Year by the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce.

Arteaga's is a family-owned business with eight locations in northern California, including three in California's 18th congressional district. It has been honored as Small Business of the Year by the California State Assembly.

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Lofgren, Babin Applaud House Passage of Bipartisan SST Committee Bills

WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, three bipartisan bills from the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee passed the House under suspension. These important pieces of legislation will strengthen America’s leadership in emerging scientific fields, enhance wildfire response through cutting-edge technologies, and advance innovation in forecasting and emergency operations.

"The passage of these three bills is a testament to this Committee’s commitment to bipartisan productivity,” said Ranking Member Zoe Lofgren. "These bills will use innovation to improve disaster response, bolster NASA’s Earth science research goals, and support small businesses as they navigate the AI era. The Science Committee has always been at the forefront of burgeoning technology and will continue to lead by example as a beacon of bipartisanship in the House."

"Yesterday's House passage of the ACERO Act, the Small Business Artificial Intelligence Advancement Act, and the ASCEND Act reflects our commitment to ensuring American innovation delivers real-world results," said Chairman Brian Babin. "From improving aerial wildfire response with advanced aircraft and real-time data, to helping small businesses harness the power of artificial intelligence, to strengthening NASA’s partnership with the commercial space sector through expanded satellite data acquisition, these bills align cutting-edge technology with practical national needs. I appreciate Ranking Member Lofgren’s partnership in advancing these bipartisan measures, which strengthen our economy, enhance public safety, and reinforce America’s leadership in science and space."

Legislation Passed:

H.R. 390, ACERO Act

This bill directs NASA to use its ACERO project to improve aerial wildfire response through advanced aircraft, real-time data sharing, and coordinated multi-agency operations.

H.R. 3679, Small Business Artificial Intelligence Advancement Act

This bill directs the National Institute of Standards and Technology to develop resources for small businesses to help them better understand and utilize artificial intelligence systems.

H.R. 2600, ASCEND Act

This bill directs the NASA Administrator to establish a commercial satellite data acquisition program under NASA’s Science Mission Directorate to satisfy the scientific, operational, and educational requirements of the Administration.

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Ranking Member Lofgren's Opening Statement at Hearing on Data Center Permitting

Thank you, Chairman McCormick and Ranking Member Sykes, for holding this hearing. Thank you to our witnesses for appearing today.

this hearing is a great opportunity for all of us to think carefully about an issue that has moved to the center of our political debate. Data centers loom large in the United States today. They are presented as the foundation of America’s global leadership in artificial intelligence. They are the subject of projected investment on an astonishing level, perhaps hundreds of billions of dollars in the years to come. They are a major source of economic growth and an engine of the stock market. Everything about data centers seems outsized in scale and ambition.

Of course, there is another side to the story. The impacts of data centers on local communities can be just as huge as their national aspirations. Data centers require massive amounts of energy to operate, and their demand for electricity threatens to strain our electric grid and send energy prices surging for residents and small businesses. They consume enormous amounts of water to prevent overheating and emit air pollutants from backup diesel generators that can expose nearby communities to health hazards. They create noise pollution that can distress people living nearby. And their demand for power, if it comes from fossil fuels instead of clean energy, could deal a dangerous setback to America’s clean energy transition.

This debate has a familiar ring to Californians. Our state has considerable experience in trying to balance the transformative economic growth that technological innovation can bring with the impacts of that growth on cost of living and affordability. Certainly for those of us in the Bay Area, this has been a crucial question for many, many years. And California will be central to this debate once again, as the state with the third-largest concentration of data centers in the country.

I have no doubt that different communities will reach different conclusions about what is in their best interest. But there is one thing we should all be able to agree on: more data and more transparency about data center impacts is essential. Communities should not have to make decisions about whether to host a data center without access to basic information about electricity usage, water consumption, air quality, noise pollution, and the potential effect on energy prices. Researchers should be able to use real world data to improve their models and forecasts about data center impacts, instead of relying so heavily on estimates and assumptions. All of us – policymakers, regulators, researchers, local communities, the American people – need consistent, reliable, transparent data to make informed decisions about data center growth. The lack of that transparency is troubling, and I look forward to discussing it further today.

It is worth remembering that ignoring data center impacts does not make them go away. The Trump Administration has become America’s biggest cheerleader for the data center buildout. All we ever hear from this administration is that the best thing for America is more data centers, built as quickly as possible, in as many parts of the country as possible. That strikes me as a foolish and shortsighted approach. If our country is not smart about data centers – if we fail to act with diligence and prudence – mistakes will be made that will inevitably cause a backlash, the beginnings of which are already starting to be seen.

Data center operators and their supporters should appreciate that their social license to operate is a valuable and fragile thing. It is in their own self-interest to be as transparent as possible about data center impacts so that the country can make reasoned judgments about how to sustainably mitigate them. I hope to learn more in today’s hearing about what the federal government can do to support that kind of transparency.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I yield back.


Rep. Nancy Mace Introduces Resolution To Expose Sexual Harassment Records Of Members Of Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 24, 2026) — Congresswoman Nancy Mace (R-SC) introduced a resolution directing the House Committee on Ethics to preserve and publicly release records and reports on all of their investigations into Members of Congress for sexual harassment and unwelcome sexual advances.

"If you sexually harass someone in Congress you do not get to hide behind closed doors. Tony Gonzales showed us what is happening in Congress. But he is not the only one,” said Congresswoman Mace. “The American people deserve answers. Staff deserve answers. Women deserve answers. No more protection for predators in Congress. We are going to shine a light on every single one of them."

The resolution directs the Committee on Ethics to preserve all documents and investigative materials related to violations or alleged violations of sexual harassment rules under clause 9 and clause 18 of rule XXIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives. The Committee would be required to publicly release all reports, conclusions, draft reports, recommendations, and accompanying materials within 60 days of adoption. Personally identifiable information of victims or alleged victims would be redacted to protect their privacy.

This resolution comes on the heels of Congresswoman Mace's call for Rep. Tony Gonzales to resign following the release of disturbing text messages showing the congressman sexually harassing a staffer.

Congresswoman Mace has been one of the loudest voices in Congress demanding accountability for those who abuse their power over women.

Sexual harassment has no place in the institution of Congress. It is time we proved it.

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Congressman Mackenzie to Attend State of the Union with Carbon County-Based Head Start Educator

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (PA-07), representing the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos, will bring Sarah Arndt, a Head Start educator in Lehighton, Pennsylvania, as his guest to President Trump’s State of the Union Address on February 24.

Sarah Arndt is a Lead Teacher at PathStone Carbon County Head Start, where she has worked for the past 13 years supporting young learners and their families. She is dedicated to supporting children’s academic, social, and emotional development and building strong partnerships with families. Through her work, she helps create a positive learning environment that prepares young students for long-term success.

“The work of Sarah and her colleagues highlights the critical role early childhood education and child care play in supporting our communities,” said Congressman Mackenzie. “As a working parent and a proud advocate for the needs of working families, I’m grateful to have Sarah joining us to bring attention to the value of affordable, reliable child care and early childhood education. In the months ahead, I’ll continue working alongside people in our community like Sarah to deliver real results for working families.”

“I’m honored to be representing children, families, and teachers in the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos at the State of the Union,” said Sarah Arndt. “Early childhood education provides children with the head start that they deserve, and I appreciate this opportunity to highlight the impact that it makes every day. Thank you to Congressman Mackenzie for helping to highlight this critical service, and for everything that he’s doing in Congress to support working families.

Child care remains one of the biggest expenses for families, with costs rising 29% nationwide from 2020 to 2024 and taking up a significant share of household income in Pennsylvania. Congressman Mackenzie is working to address these challenges by advancing policies that lower costs and expand access to affordable, reliable child care. His first bill introduced in Congress, the Working Families Tax Package, includes:

More than doubling the Child Tax Credit

Doubling the paid family and medical leave tax credit

Doubling the employee-sponsored child care tax credit

Expanding the adoption tax credit and creating a matching IVF tax credit

Congressman Mackenzie also successfully fought to include key provisions for families in the Working Families Tax Cuts, including:

A permanent increase in the Child Tax Credit (from $1,000 to $2,200) and indexing it to inflation

Expanded child care tax credits, including the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC)

Expanded employer-sponsored child care benefits

Improvements to Dependent Care Assistance Programs (DCAPs)

Congressman Mackenzie has been a leading advocate for child care and early childhood education. He has:

Supported increased funding for Head Start through the appropriations process

Visited Head Start centers during the government shutdown and advocated for continued funding for WIC

Testified before the Ways and Means Committee on supporting working families

Led efforts in the Pennsylvania state house to expand the Child Care Tax Credit

Press interested in interviewing Congressman Mackenzie and/or Sarah Arndt should email arnaud.armstrong@mail.house.gov

Photos taken on Tuesday will be shared with interested outlets following the SOTU.


Malliotakis Slams Mamdani’s Silence on NYPD Snowball Attack

(NEW YORK, NY) — Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis released the following statement following New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s silence on the snowball attack and the blatant disrespect shown toward NYPD officers:

"This snow attack on our NYPD is disgraceful and cannot go unaddressed. Mayor Mamdani and every elected official in our city should denounce this juvenile behavior. The Mayor must condemn this behavior and set an important tone early in his administration that disrespect toward the brave men and women of the NYPD, who dedicate their lives to serving our communities, cannot and will not be tolerated, and those who conduct criminal acts will be held accountable."


Malliotakis Statement on President Trump’s State of the Union: America Moving in the Right Direction

(WASHINGTON, DC) - Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis released the following statement after President Trump’s State of the Union.

“Today, President Donald Trump outlined the clear progress our nation has made this past year. Together, we delivered historic tax relief for working Americans, middle-class families and senior citizens, helping them keep more of their hard-earned money as they begin filing their taxes. With our border secure, less crime in our cities, lower mortgage rates, less inflation, cheaper gas prices, a GDP that’s growing, domestic manufacturing that’s returning, and trillions of dollars in private and foreign investment strengthening our economy, we are fueling job creation, restoring confidence, and putting our nation back on a path of sustained growth.

We are undoing the mess created by the Biden Administration and getting our country back on track, and I remain committed to working with the President and my colleagues to continue lowering costs, strengthening public safety, and building on this momentum that’s delivering real results for the American people.”


Díaz-Balart Commends President Trump’s Leadership Following the 2026 State of the Union Address

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Dean of the Florida Delegation and Vice Chair of the House Committee on Appropriations, issued the following statement commending President Trump’s achievements during the 2026 annual State of the Union address on February 24, 2026.

“President Trump has delivered a historic first year in office –– keeping his promises and restoring strong American leadership.

At the heart of his agenda is the well-being of the American people. From ending woke radical policies, unleashing American energy, securing the border, reducing crime, rebuilding our military, ending eight wars, and eliminating wasteful spending to reviving the U.S. economy, President Trump has focused on putting more money back into the pockets of hardworking Americans.

I am proud to have worked alongside President Trump to pass the America First ‘Working Families Tax Cuts’ bill to his desk for signature. As families in Florida’s 26th Congressional District file their taxes, they will see the results: lower taxes, stronger small businesses, enhanced national security, and a Florida that remains strong and prosperous.”

THE WORKING FAMILIES TAX CUTS

Historic tax cut for seniors

$6,000 deduction for individuals; $12,000 for couples

Historic tax cut for those under $100k

15% average tax cut for those making $55k-$80k

No tax on tips/overtime

Saves about $1,500 annually

Expands childcare access

Permanently expands Child Tax Credit to $2,200 and indexes for inflation

Paid leave tax credit permanent

Supports American jobs

Gives $10,000 tax break on loans for Made in America vehicles

Doubles small business expensing

Encourages the return of Made in America goods (100% expensing of new factories)

Improves healthcare

Invests $50 billion in rural healthcare

Removes illegals and dead people from Medicaid rolls, protecting the program for Americans who need and deserve it

Keeps the border secure

Enforce the rule of law

Modernizes Air Traffic Control

Replaces aging infrastructure; Ends use of old tech, like floppy disks; and invests in workforce training

Reversed Biden’s Regulatory Agenda

Result: Gas prices at four-year low

Result: Inflation down

Cuts wasteful spending

No more funding radical leftist news organizations or Iraqi Sesame Street Cut radical foreign aid programs

Eliminated international climate initiatives


House Passes McClain Bill to Stop Bad Data from Wrecking American Jobs

WASHINGTON—Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 6329, the Quality Information Assurance Act, legislation led by House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.). The bill reins in unelected bureaucrats and forces federal agencies to base massive regulatory decisions on real facts—not sloppy analysis or political agendas.

“Washington bureaucrats shouldn’t be allowed to gamble with American jobs and family budgets using bad data,” Chairwoman McClain said. “For too long, agencies have pushed billion-dollar regulations behind closed doors with little accountability. This bill shines a light on the process and puts the American people back in charge.”

The Quality Information Assurance Act cracks down on the reckless regulatory culture in Washington by requiring federal agencies to use objective, high-quality data when writing rules that affect workers, families, farmers, and job creators. It strengthens oversight, raises information standards, and blocks costly regulations built on flawed or incomplete analysis.


Congresswoman McCollum Statement on State of the Union

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum, Dean of the Minnesota Congressional delegation, issued the following statement after the State of the Union:

“Team USA made us proud as Americans – especially our fellow Minnesotans who led the nation to earn the most medals at this year’s games. They showed us all a shining example of what can happen through unity, hard work, and respect for others.

“Unfortunately, those who had the patience to listen to the President’s speech tonight had to endure more than 100 minutes of rambling self-aggrandizement and division.

“When it comes to the reality of the state of our union, we choose to believe our eyes rather than the lies.

“Here in Minnesota, we have seen what happens when President Trump gets his way and a Republican majority in Congress goes along.

“We’ve seen the damage from masked, unidentifiable federal agents invading and occupying our communities to sow chaos, violence, and division. We’ve seen Minnesotans racially profiled and assaulted. We’ve seen the killing of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal agents.

“Minnesotans are paying a heavy price for Trump’s policies. His illegal tariffs are driving up costs – taxing each and every one of us an additional $1,000 last year alone. And more than 100,000 Minnesotans will see their health care and SNAP food assistance stripped away because of the Republicans’ Big Ugly Law.

“President Trump has targeted our state in an effort to divide us and destroy our way of life, but Minnesotans are responding by doing what we do best: Caring for our neighbors and working to rebuild. We will continue to use every tool available to push back on Donald Trump, Republicans, and their extreme policies as we fight to make life better for the American people. We are united in our efforts to oppose Trump’s reign of chaos, division, and lawlessness. We are united in working for an economy that creates opportunity for families today and their children tomorrow. We are Minnesota Strong.”


Democratic Members of Minnesota Congressional Delegation Highlight Trump Administration's Attacks on Minnesotans Ahead of State of the Union

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Ahead of the State of the Union Address, the Democratic Members of the Minnesota delegation to the U.S. House of Representatives issued the following statement:

“Since January 20th, 2025, President Trump and Congressional Republicans have failed to make Minnesotans’ lives more affordable or our communities safer,” said the lawmakers.

“To the contrary – because of actions taken by President Trump and Congressional Republicans, Minnesotans face a spiraling health care and affordability crisis. Minnesota families are paying an average of $1,000 more per year for everything from groceries to energy to transportation. Our farmers and businesses face nearly $1 billion in lost economic growth because of Trump’s reckless tariffs.

“More than 100,000 Minnesotans will see their health care and SNAP food assistance stripped away because of the Republicans’ Big Ugly Law. The same law gave a $75 billion slush fund to Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE), which President Trump has used to direct thousands of federal agents to invade and occupy Minnesota for more than ten weeks. Minnesotans have been racially profiled, assaulted on the streets, and kidnapped from their homes. Peaceful demonstrators have been threatened and detained for exercising their First Amendment rights. Two American citizens – Renee Good and Alex Pretti – were killed by DHS agents.

“President Trump has targeted our state in an effort to divide us and destroy our way of life, but Minnesotans have responded by doing what we do best: Caring for our neighbors and working to rebuild.

“Minnesotans deserve better, and Democrats are united in working to restore Affordable Care Act premium tax credits, lower health care costs, and undo Trump’s costly tariffs. We will continue to use every tool available to push back on Donald Trump, Republicans, and their extreme policies as we fight to make life better for the American people. We are united in our efforts to oppose Trump’s reign of chaos, division, and lawlessness. We are Minnesota Strong.”

Minnesotans have paid a heavy price for President Trump’s policies. Click here to view a fact sheet on how Minnesota has been impacted by Operation Metro surge, grant terminations, cuts to health care and nutrition assistance, tariffs, and more.

Click here to view a fact sheet with additional nationwide information on how President Trump’s broken promises have failed Americans.

The Democratic Members of Minnesota’s Delegation to the United States House of Representatives include Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D, MN-04), Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (D, MN-05), Congresswoman Angie Craig (D, MN-02), and Congresswoman Kelly Morrison (D, MN-02).


Congressman Morgan McGarvey on Tonight’s State of the Union

WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 24, 2026) – Today, Congressman Morgan McGarvey released the following statement ahead of President Trump’s State of the Union address to Congress:

“The State of the Union is a time to reflect on the state of our country, and when I do, I see our government unleashing unimaginable violence against our neighbors and our nation slipping into authoritarianism: these are not mere policy disagreements. We cannot pretend these are normal times, and tonight the President will attempt to normalize that violence and gaslight Americans into believing our rights are disposable or that we’re powerless to stop it.

“I won’t be attending tonight’s State of the Union, and I urge Americans watching to remember that our rights are not disposable, our power is not gone, and this is not normal.”

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


House Foreign Affairs Ranking Member Meeks Statement Marking Four Years Since Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine

Washington, D.C. - Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, today issued a statement marking the fourth anniversary of Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine:

“Four years ago today, Russia launched its horrific full-scale invasion of Ukraine, unleashing terror, death, and destruction upon the Ukrainian people for the crime of choosing freedom and democracy over subjugation.

“Rather than stand by Ukraine, as the United States did for three years, President Trump has slashed support and failed to deliver the swift peace he promised. Trump has failed to put real pressure on Russia, and failed to secure a ceasefire, even as last year became the deadliest year of the war for Ukrainian civilians. President Trump’s rhetoric and actions, whether in the Oval Office with President Zelensky or by rolling out the red carpet for Putin in Alaska, have only emboldened the Kremlin.

“Russia’s campaign against Ukraine has included systematic war crimes against civilians: torture, sexual violence, child abductions, and attacks on infrastructure. In the face of this, the Ukrainian people remain unbroken. Each day the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans deny Ukraine the support it needs is another day Ukrainians pay with their lives and freedom. I have legislation before Congress that would strengthen Ukraine’s defense and hold Russia accountable. I will keep fighting to ensure the United States meets this moment. I call on my Republican colleagues to join me in that effort.”


ICYMI: Rep. Meeks Talks GOP DHS Shutdown, Trump’s Crypto Payout, and SCOTUS Ruling on Trump’s Illegal Tariffs

The DHS shutdown is a result of Republicans refusing a bipartisan deal to rein in ICE brutality. I went on CNN to discuss their lack of cooperation. Republicans have admitted to me that ICE needs to have oversight, but they won’t support Democrats’ commonsense reforms. Republicans would rather stop FEMA’s disaster response, increase travel delays at airports, and disrupt Coast Guard missions than protect Americans from ICE’s violence.

I led 40 of my colleagues in a letter demanding answers from Secretary Scott Bessent after he refused to look into the Trump family’s cryptocurrency business, World Liberty Financial. Investors connected to the United Arab Emirates royal family acquired nearly a $500 million stake in the Trump family’s business right before striking a deal with the Administration on securing U.S. advanced AI chips. This is not just an ethical issue, but a business deal that raises serious national security concerns.

Read more here.

The Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) blocked Trump’s harmful tariffs, supporting what I’ve been saying from the start: Trump cannot impose massive taxes on imports without approval from Congress. Trump’s actions broke the limits of his authority. To make matters worse, Trump wants YOU to foot the bill and pay an additional $1,700 for his tariffs.

Read more here.

In celebration of Black History Month, I was honored to receive the William C. Thompson, Sr. Award from the New York State Supreme Court Appellate Division, Second Department. I’m grateful to be recognized with an award named after a trailblazer who I admire and will continue standing up and fighting in his spirit.

I’d like to hear from my constituents about how the Republican Shutdown and Big Ugly Law will affect you or your loved ones.

I am fighting for lower health care costs, but I need your help. Please complete the form here to explain how the administration’s latest actions are affecting you.


Menendez Responds to Trump’s 2026 State of the Union Address

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Rob Menendez released the following statement tonight after President Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address:

“Tonight, Donald Trump repeated the lies he has told over and over again to the American people.

“Trump promised to lower costs. Instead, Americans got massive cost increases on everything from groceries to childcare to utility bills.

“Trump promised to focus immigration enforcement on violent criminals. Instead, DHS and ICE have terrorized our communities, tearing apart families, and killing Americans in broad daylight.

“Trump promised to fix healthcare. Instead, he left our neighbors without coverage by cutting nearly $1 trillion from Medicaid and causing premiums to skyrocket.

“While Trump and House Republicans have caused immeasurable harm to the American people, I stand with House Democrats to deliver real, meaningful change. We are in a battle for the soul of our nation – one that we will win by delivering on a much brighter vision for America than what we are all living through today. That is our mission and we know that we shall succeed – together.”


Speaker Johnson Announces State of the Union Guests

WASHINGTON — Speaker Johnson announced his slate of guests for President Trump’s State of the Union address tonight. Read their names and Speaker Johnson’s quotes announcing their attendance below.

Claire Lai (Jointly hosted with Rep. Chris Smith): “Jimmy Lai has devoted his career to championing democracy in Hong Kong, steadfastly fighting for the freedoms we too often take for granted in America. Today, however, he sits in a Chinese prison cell for simply defending free speech and speaking out against the totalitarian repression of the Chinese Communist Party. As I made clear in my address to Parliament in the United Kingdom, America is determined to secure Jimmy's release. Alongside my friend, Rep. Chris Smith, I will be proud to co-host his daughter, Claire Lai, who has shown extraordinary courage in the face of her father’s unjust imprisonment, as my guest for President Trump’s State of the Union address.”

“My wife, Marie, gave Claire her ticket to the State of the Union, because we are so deeply inspired by her courageous and tenacious campaign to obtain the release of her father—the Hong Kong free speech and religious liberty hero—Jimmy Lai,” Rep. Smith said. “She and her brother, Sebastien—who testified at a 2023 congressional hearing I chaired on Jimmy Lai—have been absolutely amazing in their past and ongoing appeal to Xi Jinping to release their dad. They love and respect their father so much, which further inspires us all to act—including President Trump, who has raised Jimmy Lai’s unjust incarceration numerous times. Read more in The New York Times.

Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen: “After years of meticulous planning and preparation, NASA is poised to launch its first crewed mission to venture around the moon in more than half a century. The Artemis II Crew – Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, Mission Specialist Christina Koch, and Mission Specialist Jeremy Hansen – will embark on this historic journey carrying forward the hopes and dreams of all humanity. It is my privilege to welcome these brave and courageous astronauts as my guests at the State of the Union Address.” Read more in Axios.

Hanan Lischinsky: “On May 21, 2025, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim were murdered on the streets of Washington, D.C. These two young diplomats of the Israeli Embassy, devoted to the cause of peace and to one another, had their futures stolen in a violent act of antisemitism. Yaron’s brother, Hanan Lischinsky, has shown remarkable courage in shedding light on the extremism that took his brother’s life. I am honored to invite him as my guest for President Trump’s State of the Union address.” Read more in Jewish Insider.

Ziba Murat: “In 2018, Dr. Gulshan Abbas was forcibly detained and arrested by the Chinese Communist Party in the Xinjiang Uyghur autonomous region days after her family member spoke out about the CCP’s heinous treatment of Uyghur Muslims. As we continue to shine an international light upon China’s human rights abuses and call for the release of all those unjustly detained, it is my honor to invite Dr. Abbas’ daughter – Ziba Murat – as my guest at President Trump’s State of the Union Address.” Read more in The Hill.

Shirley Brock-Dennis, Kambreigh Smith: “It is my profound honor to host Shirley Brock-Dennis and Kambreigh Smith – the respective mother and fiancé of Vivian Police Officer Marc Brock – as my guests for the State of the Union address. In November, Officer Brock was tragically killed in the line of duty. He was an extraordinary young man who touched countless lives through his service and volunteer activities, and his passing is a somber reminder of the tremendous risks our law enforcement officers take every single day. I am grateful that Shirley and Kambreigh will join us and help share Officer Brock’s story with the nation.” Read more in Fox News Digital.

Damon Magee: “I am honored to welcome Damon Magee to the U.S. Capitol as my guest for the President’s State of the Union address. Damon and his wife, Tammy, are the proud biological parents of two grown children, the adoptive parents of two, foster parents of one, and devoted foster care and adoption advocates in North Louisiana. The Magees represent just one of millions of families who will greatly benefit from Republicans’ historic pro-family tax policies – including the doubled Child Tax Credit and enhanced Adoption Tax Credit – which strengthen, support, and encourage families nationwide.” Read more in the Daily Signal.

Trotter Hunt: “I am glad Trotter Hunt will be joining us for President Trump’s State of the Union address on Tuesday. Trotter and his team at Hunt, Guillot & Associates are a driving force for large-scale business development, domestic investment, and American energy production in North Louisiana. Republicans’ Working Families Tax Cuts directly support American economic development and growth for businesses like HGA by restoring immediate expensing of research and development and eliminating burdensome regulations to restore American energy dominance.” Read more in the Shreveport Times.

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Speaker Johnson on SOTU: Tonight, Republicans Will Demonstrate We’re the Only Team Bringing Back Common Sense and Affordability

WASHINGTON — This morning, at the weekly House Republican Leadership press conference, Speaker Johnson discussed President Trump’s historic and transformational first year back in office ahead of his State of the Union address tonight. Speaker Johnson also highlighted Democrats’ continued obstruction amid their third government shutdown this Congress.

“We're putting more money back in your pockets, we're restoring peace through strength, we're defending our border and deporting criminal illegal aliens, we're standing up for American industry and manufacturing and we're making American workers – not foreign countries – the clear winners in this American economy,” Speaker Johnson said. “Those are not talking points; that is what we have delivered.”

Watch Speaker Johnson’s press conference remarks here.

On the State of the Union address:

Republicans have a far simpler and far superior message for Americans watching at home. We're putting more money back in your pockets, we're restoring peace through strength, we're defending our border and deporting criminal illegal aliens, we're standing up for American industry and manufacturing and we're making American workers – not foreign countries – the clear winners in this American economy. Those are not talking points; that is what we have delivered. It's called Republican results, and we are proud to run on that message in this fateful midterm election year.

So tonight, President Trump will demonstrate that Republicans are the only team working seriously to bring common sense back to our broken system. It's promises made promises kept. And he's working, and we're all working together, to make the country stronger, safer more affordable, and more prosperous for all Americans, and many of them will be represented in that that big beautiful gallery tonight. The American people will see that reflected this evening and in the months ahead as we press forward on all of those promises and so much more. We're excited; it's a great time for America.

On the third Democrat shutdown:

It's almost unbelievable to us not one not two but now three government shutdowns in just the last 100 days. What in the world are they thinking this time they've taken hostage as you know the Department of Homeland Security. The department that is literally in its name it's very indicative of its of its duties it keeps Americans safe and so funding for the agencies that protect our borders and mitigate disasters and help keep all of us able to walk down the streets without fear. That's the agency they've chosen to hold hostage well before the funding deadline Republicans as you know worked in good faith to pass a year-long full year funding for DHS and we did that through a bipartisan committee process Democrats in both the House and the Senate negotiated on that and now Democrats in both chambers have reneged on that bipartisan deal.

On the consequences of the Democrat shutdown of critical national security functions:

The consequences of Democrat shutdown are already painfully clear. Look at FEMA: their operations are really important right now. If they haven't noticed, we have a historic season of winter storms slamming the East Coast, even as we speak, in the northern parts. TSA is having to make difficult resource decisions as you've seen, and agents are working another week without pay. Some of those are high stress positions and it's not right and it's not fair. The Secret Service, as you know, is charged among its other duties of protecting the President and yet another armed attempt was made on his life just this weekend. This is not a game.

I don't need to remind anybody. 2026 is an historic year for our country, and it will be a great year of celebration; it will be a part of the big golden era, the 250th celebration and our birthday. But you're going to have during the year tens of millions of guests. We’re hosting the FIFA World Cup in 11 cities around America; we have festivals and tournaments and so many highly attended, high profile events around the country. Obviously, we need the protection of a fully funded Department of Homeland Security. We shouldn't even have to say that this this gambit that the Democrats are involved in is as foolish as it is dangerous. They cannot hold up that critical funding any longer. There is planning that's required for these events, there's all sorts of logistics involved and personnel as well and it's time for Democrats to do their job before they risk the literal lives of the American people any further.

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THOMPSON RESPONDS TO STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS: “AN INSULT TO HARDWORKING AMERICANS”

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) released the following statement in response to the President’s State of the Union address tonight:

“Tonight’s address was an insult to hardworking Americans. Since taking office, this president has waged an illegal tariff war that cost the average family $1,700, unleashed rogue immigration agents to terrorize people in our streets, and carried out dangerous military actions for oil without Congressional approval.

“And when he stood in front of our nation tonight, he lied about all of it.

“Hardworking families want a real plan to lower costs, they want to feel safe in their communities, and they do not want a new forever war that risks American lives. Instead of solutions, the President lied about the integrity of our elections and threatened to make it harder for citizens to vote. I will keep fighting to hold him accountable in the Congress, in the courts, and in the court of public opinion,” said Thompson.


American Medical Association Honors Miller-Meeks for Outstanding Government Service

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the American Medical Association (AMA) presented U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), MD, with the AMA Award for Outstanding Government Service. The award recognizes her work in Congress aimed at lowering prescription drug costs, preventing further Medicare cuts to protect patient access, easing burdensome prior authorization requirements that delay care, strengthening cancer treatment, and ensuring continuity of coverage for Medicaid patients.

“I am deeply honored to receive the AMA’s Outstanding Government Service Award,” said Dr. Miller-Meeks. “As a physician, Army veteran, and Member of Congress, my mission has always been to put patients first. I’ve seen firsthand how rising healthcare costs, bureaucratic barriers, and limited access to care affect families, seniors, and providers, which is why I’ve worked to lower prescription drug costs, reduce prior authorization delays, strengthen cancer care, and rid our systems of waste, fraud, and abuse. I’m grateful to the American Medical Association for this recognition, and I will continue fighting to ensure every Iowan has access to affordable, high-quality health care.”

“Dr. Miller-Meeks has dedicated her life to serving others — first in the U.S. Army, then as a physician caring for patients in Iowa, and now as a leader shaping national health policy in Washington,” said AMA Board Chair David H. Aizuss, MD. “Her firsthand experience in medicine and public service gives her a deep understanding of the real-world challenges patients and physicians face every day. She is a strong advocate for seniors and working families and continues to advocate for a health system that prioritizes access, affordability, and high-quality care. It is an honor to present Rep. Miller-Meeks with the AMA Award for Outstanding Government Service.”

Rep. Miller-Meeks, an ophthalmologist, was inspired to pursue a career in medicine after suffering severe burns in a kitchen fire as a teenager. A physical therapist who helped her recover motivated her to become a physician so she could help others.

At age 18, she enlisted in the U.S. Army and served for 24 years as a private, nurse and physician before retiring from the Army Reserve in 2000 at the rank of lieutenant colonel.

Prior to her election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2021, Rep. Miller-Meeks served in the Iowa state Senate and as director of the state Department of Public Health from 2010 to 2014. She serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, including the Health Subcommittee, and on the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, where she chairs the Health Subcommittee.

A first-generation college student, Rep. Miller-Meeks earned a Bachelor of Science in nursing, a Master of Science in education, and her medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. She was the first female president of the Iowa Medical Society and the first woman on the faculty of the University of Iowa’s Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences.

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STATEMENT FROM CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE ON DONALD TRUMP’S STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS

(Washington, D.C.)—Today, Congressman Joe Morelle released the following statement in response to President Donald Trump’s “State of the Union” address:

“Donald Trump used his State of the Union address to perpetuate dangerous lies, spew hateful rhetoric, and sow chaos and uncertainty into the lives of average Americans. It is clear the President is living in an alternate reality where he is not responsible for tackling rising costs, expanding access to healthcare, or addressing any of the other challenges people face.

“Instead of caring for the long-term prosperity of working families, Donald Trump is engaging in reckless foreign policy, endangering the lives of American servicemembers, jeopardizing the security of our elections, and enriching himself and his billionaire friends.

“The American people deserve better than this. The President of the United States took an oath to serve the interests of all Americans, not just the rich and powerful. It’s time for Donald Trump to take that oath seriously. Until then, I will continue fighting for policies that uplift middle class families, protect our freedoms, and ensure the long-term success of our democracy.”

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Nadler Statement on Not Attending President Trump’s State of the Union

Today, Representative Jerrold Nadler (NY-12) released the following statement on his decision to not attend President Trump's State of the Union address:

This year, I will not be attending President Trump’s State of the Union address.

The State of the Union should be a moment of truth and accountability. Instead, President Trump will use this platform, as he has so many others, to spread falsehoods, inflame hatred, and deepen division in our country. I will not sit in that chamber and lend credibility to rhetoric designed to divide Americans, undermine democratic institutions, and distract from policies that harm working people.

I refuse to lend legitimacy to an administration that is stripping healthcare from millions of Americans in order to finance tax cuts for billionaires and pour billions of dollars into expanding mass detention and deportation.

Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill delivered the largest transfer of wealth from low-income families to the ultra-rich in our nation’s history, slashing incomes for the bottom sixty percent of earners while adding $4 trillion to the deficit, the largest increase ever passed by Congress. It stripped healthcare from over 17 million people, including 1.5 million New Yorkers, as part of $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts nationwide. At the same time, the richest 0.1% will have an average annual tax cut of over $300,000, while the bottom 20% of families will see their taxes rise.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump has spent $170 billion making Immigration Customs and Enforcement (ICE) into an agency that acts like the American Gestapo. The Trump Administration has launched a brutal and reckless campaign to strike fear in immigrant communities across the country and ICE is on the front lines, using aggressive and violent tactics that too often end in tragedy. Masked federal agents are arresting U.S. citizens, pulling people out of their homes, tearing children away from their parents, and shooting our own citizens dead in the street.

The State of the Union is meant to reflect a commitment to strengthening our country, bringing Americans together, and upholding the Constitution. Until this administration changes course, I will stand in solidarity with those harmed by its policies and continue fighting for a government that serves the people, not the powerful.

New Yorkers and the American people deserve better. And I will never stop fighting to deliver for them.


Congressman Neguse Delivers Retroactive Rural Schools Payments Following Enactment of His Bill

Lafayette, CO — Today, Colorado Congressman Joe Neguse announced that, thanks to the implementation of his bill, the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act (signed into law in December 2025), the U.S. Forest Service will issue $182 million in retroactive Secure Rural Schools (SRS) payments for 2024. These funds provide vital support to rural and mountain communities that are home to federal lands, helping sustain public schools, maintain local roads, strengthen wildfire preparedness, and support other essential services in rural communities.

“The Secure Rural Schools program is a vital lifeline for the communities I serve across Western Colorado, and I’m incredibly proud that after years of hard work, these payments will make folks across our state and throughout rural America whole, ensuring that each community receives its full amount. This funding delivers real support for teachers, students, first responders, and so many others — and I look forward to continuing to see it expand possibilities for the people I’m honored to represent, from Grand County to Eagle County and everywhere in between,” said Congressman Neguse.

The USFS previously issued 2024 payments under the 1908 revenue-sharing framework since SRS had not been reauthorized. The payments announced today will make up the difference to ensure that every community receives its full allocation for 2024 payments.

More information can be found by visiting the USFS’s Secure Rural Schools Programwebpage.

Neguse worked alongside the late Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-CA) to officially reauthorize SRS at the end of last year, after it lapsed in September 2023. Prior to that, he secured two-year extensions for the SRS program in 2019 and as part of the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in 2021.

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