Warnock Questions Fulton County Commissioner Over Trump-Directed FBI Seizure of 2020 Ballots

As President Trump attempts to rig the rules ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, Senator Reverend Warnock questioned Fulton County Commissioner Mo Ivory in a Wednesday spotlight hearing on election integrity

The hearing follows a January FBI raid on a Fulton County election office, spurred by baseless claims from President Trump that the 2020 presidential election was stolen

A review by President Trump’s Department of Justice during his first term was unable to find any evidence to support allegations of widespread fraud that could have changed the result of the 2020 presidential election

Senator Reverend Warnock: “The 2020 election has been examined and litigated over and over again, yet the President continues to spread conspiracy theories and outright lies”

Watch Senator Reverend Warnock at Wednesday’s Spotlight Hearing HERE

Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) questioned Fulton County Commissioner Mo Ivory in a spotlight hearing on election integrity. The hearing focused on how states, localities, and civil society are pushing back against the Trump Administration’s continued attacks on states’ election administration authority and to offer a blueprint to states as they prepare for November’s midterms. The hearing also focused on the escalating threats from President Trump to assert control over elections amid his baseless claims regarding the 2020 presidential election.

“Let’s be clear: the lies President Trump continues to tell about the 2020 election are meant to create the pretext to interfere in this year’s midterm elections,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “The 2020 election has been examined and litigated over and over again, yet the President continues to spread conspiracy theories and outright lies. Our votes are our voices, and we need to be loud so that they cannot silence us.”

In January, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) executed a search warrant at an elections office in Fulton County and seized nearly 700 boxes of original ballots and records from the 2020 presidential election. The search was related to an effort by President Trump’s Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate alleged voter fraud in the county, which has long been a centerpiece of President Donald Trump’s baseless claims that the 2020 presidential election was stolen from him. During the search, Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard and FBI Deputy Director Andrew Bailey were both observed on the scene. A review by President Trump’s own DOJ during his first term was unable to find any evidence to support allegations of widespread fraud that could have changed the result of the 2020 presidential election.

In addition to the January raid in Fulton County, the DOJ has filed a lawsuit against Fulton County for its election records. The DOJ is also suing two dozen states for non-public voter roll information. In February, Senator Warnock, Rep. Nikema Williams (D-GA-05), and Lucy McBath (D-GA-06) sent a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi demanding answers and an immediate briefing from the DOJ following the raid of the Fulton County elections center.

Watch the Senator’s full exchange HERE

See a transcript of the exchange between Senator Warnock and Fulton County Commissioner Mo Ivory below:

Senator Reverend Warnock (SRW): “Thank you very much, Senator Padilla and welcome to our entire panel — thank you very much for being here. Last month, the Trump administration raided Fulton County, Georgia and they took our voters’ 2020 ballots. The 2020 election has been examined and litigated over and over again, yet the President continues to spread conspiracy theories and outright lies as recently as last night. Let’s be clear: these are lies are meant to create the pretext to interfere in this year’s midterm elections and we won’t let that happen. Commissioner Ivory — first, thank you for your service to Fulton County and to the people of Georgia — when you first heard about the FBI rai, you reported that you headed over to the Fulton County elections office immediately, is that right?

Commissioner Mo Ivory (MI): “Correct. I got a text and then I jumped in my car and went over, because I was worried about the workers.”

SRW: “Right. And when you arrived, what did you see?”

MI: “As soon as I got there, I was led inside, and there were approximately anywhere from about 40 to 50 FBI agents. They were standing around, sort of everybody was waiting. The first warrant that they served was procedurally incorrect, so they had to go back and correct it, because it was served to our Director of Registration and Elections, and she is not the not in the chain of custody of the ballots. It is our Clerk of Superior Court. So, it took a few hours after that for that warrant to be corrected, and then they came back and they began the raid.”

SRW: “So they came and they had the wrong warrant. What did they tell you that they were doing? How did they explain their presence in Fulton County?”

MI: “There was very little conversation, though. They told us to step back. They were here to get everything related to 2020, and that they would go in and get what they needed. And there was very little conversation.”

SRW: “Now, this was an FBI raid, correct?”

MI: “Correct.”

SRW: “And we all saw it, but I just want to establish that for the record. This was a raid by the FBI?”

MI: “Yes.”

SRW: “But Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence, was on the scene. Is that correct?”

MI: “Correct.”

SRW: “Do you know what she was doing there? You saw her yourself?”

MI: “Yes, I did.”

SRW: “Do you know what she was doing there?”

MI: “I don’t know why she was there.”

SRW: “Okay, did the FBI tell you where they were taking the ballots or what they were going to do with them?”

MI: “No.”

SRW: “Since the raid, have you received any information about how the ballots are being handled or what measures are in place to ensure that no one is tampering with those ballots?”

MI: “No.”

SRW: “What types of sensitive voter data were contained in the boxes of ballots and other materials taken by the FBI?”

MI: “The materials included were the actual ballots, recap sheets, results, tapes and absentee ballot envelopes that contained personally identifiable information.”

SRW: “As a commissioner, as a servant of the people of Fulton County. Are you concerned about what the administration will do with such sensitive data from Fulton County voters?”

MI: “Yes.”

SRW: “Thank you so very much for your testimony. I have demanded an explanation from Pam Bondi about this raid. So far, I have not heard back from her. She has not offered one, but we’ll keep demanding answers, because if we don’t stand up now, they won’t stop with Fulton County. We saw this in Minneapolis, Minnesota, when Attorney General Bondi attempted to seize the state voters’ role in exchange for the withdrawal of ICE agents. They literally said, ‘You want ICE out of your community? Hand over your voter rolls.’ If you want to end the occupation of your city — and I call it that because there are 600 police officers, over 3000 federal agents. This is their project. They are already trying to cast doubt on the 2026 elections. Commissioner Ivory, what keeps you up at night when you think about the midterm election, when you think about the seizing of voter rolls or voter records in Fulton County, a ransom note from the Attorney General to the people of Minneapolis. Does that bother you at all as you think about the midterm elections?”

MI: “Yes. I mean, what we’re seeing is a preview of what could happen nationally, which is attempted takeovers from multiple angles. I worry about the election workers, who are everyday people coming to work to support their families and feel intimidated just going to work every day. The Fulton County Republican Party attempted to nominate two known election deniers to our board of registrations and elections as a part of this, it’s a complete movement. So what keeps me up at night is knowing that we in Fulton County are able and have secure, fair and free elections, but voter suppression is a tactic that keeps people at home, and we have to fight to make sure that people know that their vote is important and that they have the right to exercise it.

SRW: “Thank you so much. It’s very important for those of us in Congress to stand up against these moves by the President, and by the way, it shouldn’t be a partisan issue. The great thing about America is we have, we have robust arguments, and then the people get to have their say. And so we have to do everything we can here, but part of the effort of voter suppression is to so demoralize voters that they don’t bother so part of the answer is that the people of Fulton County and all across Georgia and all across the country have to show up and demand that our voices be heard. Thank you very much.”

###


Warren on Paramount Winning Warner Bros. Bidding War

“What did Trump officials tell the Netflix CEO today at the White House?”

Washington, D.C. – Today, in response to the news that Paramount won the bidding war for Warner Bros. after Netflix dropped out, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) released the following statement:

“A Paramount Skydance-Warner Bros. merger is an antitrust disaster threatening higher prices and fewer choices for American families. What did Trump officials tell the Netflix CEO today at the White House? A handful of Trump-aligned billionaires are trying to seize control of what you watch and charge you whatever price they want. With the cloud of corruption looming over Trump’s Department of Justice, it’ll be up to the American people to speak up and state attorneys general to enforce the law.”

###


Warren, Senators Demand Energy Secretary Reverse Course on Natural Gas Exports as American Families’ Utility Bills Skyrocket

“The Trump Administration’s LNG export policies are not putting America first: they have jacked up utility prices for families, leaving many Americans struggling with the cost of heating their homes this winter.”

Text of Letter (PDF)

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) led 9 Senators in a letter urging Energy Secretary Chris Wright to reverse course on his pledge to double liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports as Americans face rapidly rising home heating costs.

Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) joined the letter.

“The Trump Administration’s LNG export policies are not putting America first: they have jacked up utility prices for families, leaving many Americans struggling with the cost of heating their homes this winter,” wrote the senators. Last year, natural gas prices increased more than 55% and are expected to increase by 16% in 2026. The latest CPI figures show that the price that Americans pay to heat their homes with natural gas has increased by nearly 10% in the last twelve months. The Energy Information Administration reported that exports of natural gas are “primarily” responsible for these price increases.

But the Trump Administration is now seeking to increase the pace of LNG exports, with the Energy Secretary indicating that the Department is seeking to double LNG exports within four years. Already during the Trump Administration, LNG exports have increased dramatically, growing 26% in 2025 and expected to increase by an additional 9% in 2026.

The senators also expressed concerns about how the Trump administration’s LNG export push will benefit oil executives and campaign contributors.

“Adding insult to injury, the growth of LNG exports has helped line the pockets of oil executives at the expense of American families,” wrote the senators. President Trump has received extensive support from energy and natural gas firms, and the administration has granted extraordinary regulatory favors to the industry.

“We urge DOE to reconsider its plan to increase LNG exports while Americans face higher utility and gas prices,” concluded the senators. The senators pressed for a written commitment by March 11, 2026.

###


Warren, Sherman, 160 Lawmakers Introduce Direct File Act to Guarantee Free, Easy Tax Filing for Americans

The Direct File Act would reverse Trump administration decision to cancel Direct File, building on widely successful pilot

If fully implemented, Direct File is projected to save families up to $23 billion annually in fees, time, and tax credits

Bill One-Pager (PDF) | Bill Text (PDF)

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Chris Coons (D-De.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee, and Representatives Brad Sherman (D-Calif.), Don Beyer (D-Va.), Judy Chu (D-Calif.), Steny Hoyer (D-Md.), and Mark Pocan (D-Wisc.) led over 150 lawmakers in introducing the Direct File Act, new legislation that would reverse the Trump administration’s decision to end the highly successful Direct File program — which allowed taxpayers to file their taxes online, for free, and directly with the government — and make the program permanent.

“It’s a no-brainer: Americans should be able to file their taxes easily and for free. Donald Trump canceled Direct File after giant tax prep companies spent millions lobbying to protect their profits,” said Senator Warren. “We’re fighting to lower costs for families by bringing Direct File back and making it the law of the land.”

“Americans shouldn’t have to waste valuable time or hard-earned money just to file their taxes,” said Representative Sherman. “The Direct File Act expands on the successful 2024 pilot and offers a straightforward, no-cost filing option that will make the process simpler and more affordable for working families.”

The average American taxpayer spends eight hours and $160 each year filing their taxes with tax prep companies. In 2024, the IRS launched Direct File to save families time and money. 94% of users described their experience as “excellent” or “above average,” and more than 70% of taxpayers said they would use Direct File if they were eligible. If fully implemented, Direct File was projected to save families up to $23 billion annually in fees, time, and tax credits.

Despite Direct File’s success, the Trump Administration ended the program after extensive lobbying efforts by tax prep companies. This decision contradicts recommendations from the independent Government Accountability Office and Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, ultimately raising costs for Americans and making the tax filing experience even more burdensome.

In addition to directing the IRS to establish and operate a free online tax preparation and filing program, the Direct File Act would:

Prohibit the IRS from entering into agreements that restrict its ability to provide free online tax preparation or filing services.

Direct the IRS to publish an annual report on use levels, patterns of usage, and ways to improve access to Direct File.

Direct the IRS to enable seamless integration between state tax filing systems and Direct File, including through information sharing and a new grant program for states.

Reduce tax fraud by getting third-party income information to the IRS earlier in the tax season, allowing the agency to verify this information before issuing refunds.

“Direct File helped hundreds of thousands of American taxpayers file their taxes quickly, easily, and for free – so of course President Trump and Republicans killed it. This year, those Americans will have to go back to expensive tax preparation services owned by President Trump’s donors. This legislation would bring back Direct File, because tax season is already hard enough without having to pay a company to pay your taxes,” said Senator Coons.

“Trump and the Republicans shut down the IRS Direct File program because they’re bought and paid for by the tax software industry and don’t have a problem with middle-class taxpayers getting ripped off every spring,” said Senator Wyden. “This bill is a promise that Democrats are going to restore Direct File the next time we’re in charge of the IRS, and in the meantime, it’s a shame that the Trump administration is a threat to any public service that saves Americans time, hassle and money.”

“The senseless destruction of the IRS’ popular Direct File program last year was just another example of the Trump Administration going out of its way to make life more difficult for the American people,” said Representative Beyer. “The program allowed hundreds of thousands of Americans to file their taxes easily and for free directly with the IRS instead of being forced to go through middlemen. This legislation would codify this important program and prioritize ordinary Americans already struggling with high costs of living ahead of special interests.”

“Direct File worked. It saved everyday taxpayers over $5.5 million in tax preparation fees and it saved them time. But Trump and Republicans killed it, because making the tax filing process simple and free doesn’t benefit their billionaire donors and the giant tax prep companies that profit off of confusion and fees. That’s why I joined Representative Brad Sherman and Senator Elizabeth Warren to introduce the Direct File Act of 2026, which would restore and permanently codify the IRS’s free, government-run online tax filing program so more Americans can file their taxes quickly and at no cost. I am committed to ensuring we bring Direct File back and stop Trump from rigging the system against the people it’s intended to serve,” said Representative Chu.

“The federal government requires Americans to pay their taxes, thus it ought to provide them a free and easy way to do so. That's why I helped lead Democrats' efforts to establish Direct File through the Inflation Reduction Act: to save Americans time and money. That logic is lost on the Trump Administration. Trump may not care about lowering Americans' costs, but Democrats still do,” said Representative Hoyer. “We will keep fighting to bring back Direct File and to expand it nationwide.”

“Direct File is a popular program that allows Americans to file their taxes for free, cutting out the middleman. But big tax-prep companies like TurboTax and H&R Block pushed the Trump administration to kill it,” said Representative Pocan. “It's time to bring back Direct File permanently nationwide, saving taxpayers time and money.”

In total, 40 Senators cosponsored the legislation, including Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.)

120 Members of the House of Representatives cosponsored the bill as well, including: Representatives Alma Adams (D-N.C.), Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.), Gabe Amo (D-R.I.), Becca Balint (D-Vt.), Nanette Barragán (D-Calif.), Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio), Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.), Julia Brownley (D-Calif.), Andre Carson (D-Ind.), Sean Casten (D-Ill.), Kathy Castor (D-Fla.), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Fla.), Gilbert R. Cisneros Jr. (D-Calif.), Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.), Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.), Herb Conaway (D-N.J.), Lou Correa (D-Calif.), Jim Costa (D-Calif.), Danny Davis (D-Ill.), Madeleine Dean (D-Pa.), Diana DeGette (D-Colo.), Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.), Suzan DelBene (D-Wash.), Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.), Mark DeSaulnier (D-Calif.), Maxine Dexter (D-Ore.), Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas), Sarah Elfreth (D-Md.), Cleo Fields (D-La.), Lizzie Fletcher (D-Texas), Bill Foster (D-Ill.), Valerie Foushee (D-N.C.), Lois Frankel (D-Fla.), Laura Friedman (D-Calif.), Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.), John Garamendi (D-Calif.), Robert Garcia (D-Calif.), Sylvia Garcia (D-Texas), Jesús “Chuy” García (D-Ill.), Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.), Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.), Al Green (D-Texas), Adelita Grijalva (D-Ariz.), Josh Harder (D-Calif.), Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.), Jim Himes (D-Conn.), Steven Horsford (D-Nev.), Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.), Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Glenn Ivey (D-Md.), Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.), Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), Robin Kelly (D-Ill.), Tim Kennedy (D-N.Y.), Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), Greg Landsman (D-Ohio), Rick Larsen (D-Wash.), George Latimer (D-N.Y.), Summer Lee (D-Pa.), Stephen Lynch (D-Mass.), John Mannion (D-N.Y.), Doris Matsui (D-Calif.), Sarah McBride (D-Del.), April McClain Delaney (D-Md.), Jennifer McClellan (D-Va.), Betty McCollum (D-Minn.), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-Mich.), Jim McGovern (D-Mass.), LaMonica McIver (D-N.J.), Rob Menendez (D-N.J.), Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.), Seth Moulton (D-Mass.), Kevin Mullin (D-Calif.), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), Johnny Olszewski (D-Md.), Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), Frank Pallone (D-N.J.), Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.), Mike Quigley (D-Ill.), Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.), Emily Randall (D-Wash.), Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), Andrea Salinas (D-Ore.), Linda Sanchez (D-Calif.), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-Pa.), Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), Kim Schrier (D-Wash.), Bobby Scott (D-Va.), David Scott (D-Ga.), Lateefah Simon (D-Calif.), Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Darren Soto (D-Fla.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), Suhas Subramanyam (D-Va.), Tom Suozzi (D-N.Y.), Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.), Mark Takano (D-Calif.), Shri Thanedar (D-Mich.), Bennie G. Thompson (D-Miss.), Dina Titus (D-Nev.), Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), Jill Tokuda (D-Hawaii), Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.), Ritchie Torres (D-N.Y.), Lori Trahan (D-Mass.), Juan Vargas (D-Calif.), Marc Veasey (D-Texas), Nydia M. Velazquez (D-N.Y.), Eugene Vindman (D-Va.), James Walkinshaw (D-Va.), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.), and Nikema Williams (D-Ga.).

The bill is endorsed by 115 unions, advocacy groups, and national organizations, including Public Citizen, Americans for Tax Fairness, Economic Security Project Action, Groundwork Collaborative, AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers (AFT), American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Communications Workers of America, Americans for Financial Reform, National Consumer Law Center (on behalf of its low-income clients), Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), Main Street Alliance, Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy, P Street, Patriotic Millionaires, Institute for Policy Studies - Program on Inequality, MoveOn, UnidosUS, 20/20 Vision, Advancing CT Together, Alliance for Retired Americans, Allons Babies, Americans for Democratic Action (ADA), Arkansas Asset Builders, Brazilian Worker Center Inc, California Alliance of Caregivers, CASH Campaign of Maryland, Catalyst Miami, Center for New Revenue, Center for the Study of Social Policy, Children's HealthWatch, Church Women United in New York State, Coalition on Human Needs, Color Of Change, Colorado Consumer Health Initiative, Colorado Fiscal Institute, Community Change Action, Connecticut Voices for Children, Consumer Action, Courage California, Demand Progress, Elevate Idaho Families, End Child Poverty CA powered by GRACE, Fair Share America, Faith in Minnesota, Financial Empowerment Network, Futures Without Violence, Garrett County Community Action Committee, Inc., Golden State Opportunity, Grow Brooklyn, Hawaii Children's Action Network Speaks!, Housing Action Illinois, Idaho Center for Fiscal Policy, In the Public Interest, Income Movement, Indivisible Georgia Coalition, ISAIAH (MN), Jobs with Justice, LIFT Inc, LIFT-DC, Maine Center for Economic Policy, Maine Equal Justice, MakingChange, Inc, Marion County Commission on Youth (MCCOY), Maryland Center on Economic Policy, Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service, Meals4Families, Minnesota Budget Project, Mothers Outreach Network, My Money Story, National Association of Social Workers, National Coalition for Asian Pacific American Community Development, National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, National Council of Jewish Women Los Angeles, National Organization for Women, National Rural Social Work Caucus, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, New Jersey Policy Perspective, New Mexico Voices for Children, Northern Santa Barbara County United Way, Northwest Progressive Institute, Oregon Center for Public Policy, Oxfam America, Prepare + Prosper, Prosperity Indiana, Public Good Law Center, RAISE Texas, Responsible Wealth, RESULTS, RESULTS DC/MD, RESULTS.org-Massachusetts, Rise Up WV, RootsAction, San Diego for Every Child, SiX Action, Social Work Grand Challenge to Reduce Extreme Economic Inequality, State Innovation Exchange, Strong Economy For All Coalition, The Arc of the United States, Touch Stones Financial Wellness Services, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Hidalgo County Texas, Unitarian Universalists for Social Justice, United for a Fair Economy, United for Respect, United Way of Frederick County, United Ways of the Pacific Northwest, Upper West Side Action Group, Vesta Prosperity, Voices for Progress, Washington Anti-Hunger & Nutrition Coalition, Washington State Budget and Policy Center, Women Employed, and Young Invincibles.

“A free, direct e-filing tax return system is a fundamental taxpayer right,” said Nina Olson, Executive Director of the Center for Taxpayer Rights and former National Taxpayer Advocate. “Just as the government designs and printed paper tax forms for years, so should it design and maintain a user-friendly electronic filing option for individual taxpayers.”

“Americans across the country are struggling with high costs and having trouble making ends meet, so it’s especially frustrating that we no longer have the option to use the free Direct File online filing software developed by the IRS,” said Susan Harley, managing director of Public Citizen’s Congress Watch division. “The Direct File Act would put back in place this commonsense cost saving option for filers and once and for all ensure that corporations aren’t allowed to keep their stranglehold on tax filing. Public Citizen and our partners applaud Senator Warren, Representative Sherman, and their colleagues for their leadership on this critical issue.”

###


Warren, Wyden, Van Hollen Sound Alarm on Lutnick Family’s Conflicts of Interest Involving New Commerce Rare Earth Deal

Massive deal could benefit Lutnick’s immediate family through ties to Cantor Fitzgerald

“It follows in a long string of actions that you have taken in your capacity as the Secretary of Commerce that could stand to enrich your immediate family and former company"

Text of Letter (PDF)

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member on the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Ranking Member on the Senate Finance Committee; and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Ranking Member on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies, pressed Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick on concerns over his close involvement in the Department’s recent investment in rare earth mineral company USA Rare Earth, Inc. (USAR). The deal appears to have directly benefited the Secretary’s former firm, Cantor Fitzgerald, which is now led by his two adult sons.

“This follows in a long string of actions that you have taken in your capacity as the Secretary of Commerce that could stand to enrich your immediate family and former company,” wrote the lawmakers.

Securing a domestic supply of critical minerals — including rare earths — is essential to U.S. national security and economic competitiveness, making it especially important that federal investments are based on the merits, and that decisions are made free of conflicts of interest. But the circumstances surrounding the recent Commerce Department investment raise fresh concerns about Trump Administration corruption.

Last month, the Department announced a tentative deal worth up to $1.6 billion with USAR while acquiring 16.1 million shares of the company, around a 10% stake. USAR had only held one previous government contract, worth just under $100,000. On the same day, USAR announced it had also raised $1.5 billion in private funds with Lutnick’s former firm Cantor Fitzgerald acting as “lead placement agent” for the transaction, meaning, as the lawmakers noted, “Cantor acted as a compensated broker for a company whose financial position was bolstered by as much as $1.6 billion in public funds from your Department.”

Prior to becoming Commerce Secretary, Lutnick owned and led Cantor for years. His ethics agreement required that he divest this interest, which he did by transferring his stake to his adult sons, who now lead the company. Ethics experts have expressed concern that this unusual arrangement “is reason to worry that the public interest is being subordinated, yet again, to the profit seeking of Trump cronies.”

“The USAR deal, which you publicly touted and reportedly were personally involved in, is the latest example of how official Commerce Department business has intersected with Cantor Fitzgerald’s financial interests during your tenure,” wrote the lawmakers. Secretary Lutnick is not the only one who appears to have benefited from this deal. Billionaire Trump allies appear to have had access to shares of USAR in this private fundraising sale brokered by Cantor, including Steve Schwarzman, Ken Griffin, and Steven A. Cohen — all of whom contributed exorbitant amounts of money to President Trump’s campaign and inauguration funds.

“[I]f [these supporters of the Trump administration] had inside information on the Commerce Department, it could potentially implicate federal ethics rules — as well as raising questions about corruption related to financial rewards for wealthy supporters of President Trump and his administration,” wrote the lawmakers.

The lawmakers pressed Secretary Lutnick for answers regarding these clear conflict-of-interest concerns by March 11, 2026.

###


Chairman Wicker Leads SASC Hearing to Consider Two Senior Pentagon Nominations

Watch Video Here

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today led a hearing to consider nominations for senior pentagon positions overseeing homeland defense and force sustainment.

Mr. Mark R. Ditlevson, nominated to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense and Americas Security Affairs, and Honorable Brian D. Birdwell, nominated to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment, both appeared before the committee.

In his opening remarks, Chairman Wicker underscored the urgency of the current threat environment and emphasized the significance of these two roles in protecting the homeland, strengthening border and counter-drone efforts, modernizing the industrial base, and ensuring the readiness and resilience of U.S. forces.

Read Chairman Wicker’s hearing opening statement as delivered.

I welcome our nominees and their families and thank them for being here today.

We are living through a period of profound strategic uncertainty. You have heard me say this numerous times, but it bears saying. Today is an era marked by great power competition, ongoing conflicts abroad, and growing demands on our Armed Forces. I say this again because it bears repeating: We face the most dangerous threat environment since World War II. Now more than ever, we need patriots willing to step up and serve our nation, and in that spirit, I welcome the two who are appearing before this committee today.

Mr. Roosevelt Ditlevson has been nominated to serve as the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense and Americas Security Affairs. If confirmed, he will be responsible for developing the strategies and policies the Department of Defense uses when it works with federal, state, and local officials on a variety of issues in our hemisphere.

These include natural disaster recovery, pandemic preparedness, critical infrastructure protection, and efforts to counter the influence operations of our adversaries. In particular, I think he will be able to help us develop creative, low-cost options to push back against China, Russia, and the cartels in our own neighborhood.

Mr. Ditlevson’s prospective portfolio also includes border security. As we are fond of saying, border security is an essential part of national security. I commend the president for the significant progress he has made in securing our borders. Crossings are down 95 percent, and our communities are safer as a result.

Last year, Congress provided $10 billion dollars to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), funds specifically meant to reimburse DOD for its support in border operations. This money appropriated to Homeland Security Department. I am disappointed to hear that DHS has significantly delayed implementing this agreement. I look forward to hearing how Mr. Ditlevson plans to coordinate with DHS to ensure this funding is appropriately allocated.

If confirmed, Mr. Ditlevson would also serve as the department’s civilian head for countering small drones over the homeland. Congress has been aggressive in this area and for good reason. We want to see dramatic improvement in the way executive branch agencies coordinate on counter-drone efforts.

Mr. Brian Birdwell has been nominated to serve as the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment. If confirmed, he will be responsible for ensuring that our ships sail, our aircraft fly, our vehicles move, and our forces remain supplied in both peacetime and conflict.

Our warfighters depend on these capabilities. They rely on Congress and the department to give them what they need to deter our adversaries and defend their fellow Americans. However, our ability to do so is under massive strain. Fragile supply chains, skyrocketing global demand for munitions and equipment, and increasingly contested logistics all threaten the readiness of our military.

This committee is very aware of the challenges involved in maintaining our forces. We must modernize our industrial base, restore depleted stockpiles, improve installation resilience, and ensure accountability across the enterprise.


Wyden Presses Trump’s Commerce Secretary on Conflict of Interest After Family’s Firm Brokers Investment in Critical Minerals

Oregon senator: “It follows in a long string of actions that you have taken in your capacity as the Secretary of Commerce that could stand to enrich your immediate family and former company"

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today pressed U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on the extent of his involvement with his department’s recent investment in a rare earth mineral company that also conducts business with his former firm, which is now managed by his two sons.

Last month, the Commerce Department announced a tentative deal worth up to $1.6 billion with USA Rare Earth, Inc. (USAR), acquiring around 10% stake in the critical mineral company. On the same day, USAR announced it raised $1.5 billion in private funds with Lutnick ’s former firm Cantor Fitzgerald.

“Cantor acted as a compensated broker for a company whose financial position was bolstered by as much as $1.6 billion in public funds from your Department,” Wyden and two other senators wrote Lutnick. “The USAR deal, which you publicly touted and reportedly were personally involved in, is the latest example of how official Commerce Department business has intersected with Cantor Fitzgerald’s financial interests during your tenure.”

Lutnick is not the only well-connected person who appears to have benefited from this deal. Trump’s billionaire allies now allegedly can access USAR shares brokered by Cantor — all of whom contributed exorbitant amounts of money to his campaign and inauguration funds.

“[I]f [these supporters of the Trump administration] had inside information on the Commerce Department, it could potentially implicate federal ethics rules — as well as raising questions about corruption related to financial rewards for wealthy supporters of President Trump and his administration,” concluded the lawmakers.

A domestic supply of rare earths in America is essential to national security and economic competitiveness, making it important that federal investments are based on merits and not conflicts of interest.

Joining Wyden, the letter was signed by Senators Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Chris Van Hollen, D-Md.

The lawmakers pressed Lutnick for answers regarding these clear conflict-of-interest concerns by March 11, 2026.


Young, Cantwell Reintroduce Future of AI Innovation Act

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) reintroduced the Future of AI Innovation Act, legislation to ensure U.S. leadership in the global race to develop artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies.

The legislation promotes strong partnerships between government, business, and academia to advance AI research. It would authorize the Center for AI Standards and Innovation (CAISI) at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to promote the development of voluntary standards and create testbeds with national labs to accelerate groundbreaking AI innovation for the benefit of future economic growth and national security.

“One of my top priorities for federal AI policy is to ensure these technologies are developed in a manner that reflects American values and supports U.S. innovation. I’m glad to introduce the Future of AI Innovation Act to maintain American leadership in the global race to advance AI,” said Senator Young.

“This legislation brings together private sector and government experts to develop voluntary standards for AI, create new assessment tools, and conduct testing that will ensure the United States leads in AI-driven innovation and competitiveness for decades to come. The NIST Center for AI Standards and Innovation, testbeds at our national labs, and grand challenge prizes will accelerate new advancements while helping companies and consumers better use AI in a safe and secure manner,” said Senator Cantwell.

As foreign adversaries and competitors invest heavily in AI, it’s critical the U.S. maintains our leadership in this space. This legislation builds upon Senators Young and Cantwell’s FUTURE of AI Act in 2020, which created the National AI Advisory Committee (NAIAC), a panel of outside experts who make recommendations to the government on AI. Provisions in the Future of AI Innovation Act were drafted based on recommendations from NAIAC reports.

The new version of this bill reflects priorities outlined in President Trump’s AI Action Plan, as well as the Commerce Department’s pro-innovation rebranding of CAISI.

The Future of AI Innovation Act:

Authorizes the NIST Center for AI Standards and Innovation to Develop AI Standards: Formally establishes the Center for AI Standards and Innovation at NIST to develop voluntary guidelines and standards with the private sector and federal agencies to promote robust long-term innovation in AI. The Center will develop performance benchmarks, evaluations, and clear transparency documentation standards for AI systems, while helping companies and consumers better understand and use AI tools.

Creates New AI Testbeds with National Laboratories to Evaluate AI Models and Make Discoveries that Benefit the U.S. Economy: Creates testbed programs between NIST, the National Science Foundation (NSF), the Department of Energy (DOE) and the private sector to develop security risk tools and testing environments for companies to evaluate their systems for capabilities and limitations. This bill also authorizes public-private partnership testbeds to create new materials for advanced manufacturing and testbeds to make new scientific discoveries by using AI integrated with emerging technologies, such as quantum hybrid computing and robotics.

Creates Grand Challenge Prize Competitions to Spur Private Sector AI Solutions and Innovation: Grand challenges elevate and expedite high-priority projects and engage researchers across the country for the benefit of the nation’s competitiveness. The grand challenges would prioritize finding AI solutions through the integration of advanced AI technology and emerging technologies like quantum computing. Grand challenges are aimed at overcoming barriers to the further development of AI and computing, microelectronics, biotechnologies, advanced manufacturing, and other economic priorities like breakthroughs in maritime vessel propulsion systems and border security, including fentanyl and illegal drug detection.

Accelerates AI Innovation with Publicly Available Datasets: Directs federal science agencies to make curated datasets available for public use to accelerate new advancements in AI applications, including solutions to global challenges in agriculture, medicine, transportation, manufacturing and more. Unlocking datasets will help make discoveries in AI and benefit small and medium businesses that often don’t have access to as much data.

Creates International Alliances on AI Standards, Research and Development: Forms a coalition with U.S. allies to cooperate on global standards and creates a multilateral research collaboration between scientific and academic institutions across the world to spur AI research and innovation. This collaboration is based on a NAIAC recommendation.


Young, Coons Resolution to Establish National FFA Week Passes Senate

WASHINGTON – The United States Senate unanimously passed a resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) to establish February 21-28, 2026, as National FFA Week.

The resolution highlights the important role of the National FFA Organization in developing the next generation of leaders by providing educational and career opportunities to students.

“FFA plays a critical role in the development of students through agricultural education. The lessons, tools, and resources gained through the FFA program equip Indiana’s future leaders with the skills needed to succeed in a variety of fields,” said Senator Young. “I’m glad to lead this resolution establishing National FFA Week in support of the more than 14,000 Hoosier FFA members.”

“Future Farmers of America provides young Delawareans with a community and a purpose, while teaching them the skills they need for the jobs the First State needs,” said Senator Coons. “Agriculture is the backbone of our downstate economy, and FFA’s investment in the next generation is key to preparing them for the opportunities of tomorrow. I’m proud to support them here in the Senate and at home in Delaware.”

“National FFA Week is a time when we showcase the collective impact of FFA nationwide,” said National FFA Advisor, Dr. Travis Park. “Throughout FFA, we see our members stepping up as leaders, innovators, and advocates for agriculture. We know this happens, thanks to the dedication of agricultural teachers, FFA Alumni & Supporters, and our many partners. This week, National FFA Week, is when we celebrate the collective agricultural education ecosystem.”

In Indiana, there are over 230 FFA chapters, with over 14,000 Hoosier members and over 360 Hoosier agricultural educators.

In addition to Senators Young and Coons, Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Angus King (I-Maine), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Dave McCormick (R-Pa.) also joined the resolution.


Young Introduces Bill to Protect American Roads and Supply Chains

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.), Chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Freight, Pipelines, and Safety,introduced the Securing American Freight, Enforcement, and Reliability in(SAFER) Transport Act, or the SAFER Transport Act, comprehensive legislation to address ongoing issues negatively impacting U.S. freight and highways, improve roadway safety for Americans, and protect our national security.

“Americans deserve safe and reliable supply chains and roads,” said Young. “The SAFER Transport Act takes important steps to strengthen our transportation infrastructure, combat crime that is hurting U.S. consumers and businesses, and ensure our roads are safe for all Americans. ”

Cargo theft in the United States is at a record-high, driven by both domestic and international organizations. These groups are using increasingly sophisticated, fraudulent tactics such as fictitious pickups, double brokering scams, and hostage loads to steal shipments without detection. Despite these rising threats, prosecutorial standards are inconsistent across states and localities, leading to a lack of enforcement, misclassification of crimes, and chronic underreporting. The SAFER Transport Act would strengthen federal efforts to prevent, detect, and punish freight fraud and cargo theft across our transportation ecosystem.

Simultaneously, a recent audit by the Department of Transportation (DOT) revealed widespread negligence of states that were illegally issuing non-domiciled CDLs and uncovered glaring compliance failures in several states, including Illinois, California, and New York. This noncompliance, paired with the influx of illegal immigration under the Biden Administration, have led to a tragic increase in American deaths. The SAFER Transport Act would put American safety first by strengthening CDL issuance requirements, mandating monthly state reporting on CDLs, enhancing oversight of CDL training providers through audits and disclosure requirements, and preventing unauthorized drivers from transporting domestic cargo.

Young has previously led efforts to address the rise in cargo theft, includingchairing a Commerce Committee hearing focused on potential solutions to this crime and cosponsoring the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act (CORCA) of 2025. Young also has long supported strengthening guardrails around CDL requirements to improve the safety of our roads.

Full text of the SAFER Transport Act can be found here.

The SAFER Transport Act is supported by Airforwarders Association, American Trucking Associations (ATA), Commercial Vehicle Training Association (CVTA), Indiana Motor Truck Association, Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), and Truck Renting and Leasing Association (TRALA).

Below are quotes from supportive organizations:

“The Airforwarders Association strongly supports Senator Young’s legislation to combat freight fraud and cargo theft. Supply chain fraud increasingly targets multimodal logistics networks, including air cargo intermediaries, and requires coordinated federal action. This legislation appropriately strengthens interagency coordination, improves registration integrity, and enhances tools to detect and prevent fraudulent actors in the transportation system. AfA particularly supports efforts to modernize and secure the registration system and improve collaboration between the Department of Transportation and the Department of Justice. We appreciate Senator Young’s leadership and look forward to working with his office and coalition partners to ensure effective implementation across all transportation modes,” said Airforwarders Association Executive Director Brandon Fried.

“Over 90% of trucking fleets operate 10 trucks or fewer, and each one represents the embodiment of the American Dream. Motor carriers spend years building their reputations, but ruthless and sophisticated criminals are actively exploiting loopholes in USDOT’s registration process to steal their identities, capitalize on their good names, and commit cargo theft,” said ATA President & CEO Chris Spear. “Small businesses are not equipped to fight large-scale fraud on their own, which is why it is so critical to implement Senator Young’s commonsense reforms that modernize USDOT’s systems to weed out chameleon carriers and enhance oversight and penalties. We are grateful for his willingness to listen to the voices of hardworking truckers.”

“Transparency and accountability are essential to restoring integrity in the commercial driver’s license system,” said CVTA Chairman Jeff Burkhardt.“Requiring monthly state reporting on CDL and CLP issuance will give policymakers and industry real visibility into trends and potential vulnerabilities. While FMCSA has taken important steps to enhance ELDT oversight, codifying a structured, mandatory audit regime into statute will provide consistency and durability across future administrations and ensure that only qualified training providers remain on the Training Provider Registry. Just as important, empowering interested state agencies to remove bad actors and requiring timely resolution of complaints sends a clear message that fraud and noncompliance will not be tolerated. These reforms protect students, support reputable schools, and ultimately make our roadways safer.”

“Indiana’s predominantly family-owned trucking companies are locked in a rapidly escalating arms race against high-tech thieves,” said Indiana Motor Truck Association President Gary Langston. “Identity theft and cargo heists have become an epidemic, and the outdated USDOT system has left the back door wide open for criminals to target motor carriers. We thank Senator Young for introducing this legislation that will help eliminate vulnerabilities related to registration, CDL issuance, and training and finally give our industry the backup it needs to fight fraud. These reforms will protect Indiana trucking fleets and the hundreds of thousands of Hoosiers they employ.”

“The small business truckers and owner-operators OOIDA represents are particularly vulnerable to fraud, which has unfortunately become widespread in our industry and increasingly sophisticated. Falling victim to even a single scam can cost one of our members their entire livelihood. That’s why OOIDA appreciates Chairman Young’s leadership in introducing the SAFER Transport Act, which addresses many of the regulatory shortcomings that have allowed fraudsters, chameleon carriers, unvetted and underqualified drivers, and sham training schools to proliferate. The SAFER Transport Act is a major step towards weeding out the bad actors in our industry who make our roads less safe. We will continue working with Chairman Young and his colleagues to make the trucking industry more professional and America’s roads safer for everyone,” said OOIDA Executive Vice President Lewie Pugh.

“RILA appreciates Senator Young’s leadership in advancing efforts to strengthen supply chain security and by addressing freight fraud and theft. We are supportive of his continued work to develop thoughtful, complementary solutions that reinforce federal coordination and protect the integrity of the transportation system,” said RILA Senior Director of Government Affairs Sarah Gilmore.

“The Truck Renting and Leasing Association applauds Senator Young for this much-needed legislation. The trucking industry has been deluged with fraud and theft, costing companies and in turn consumers, billions in losses annually,” said TRALA President & CEO Jake Jacoby. “This bill strengthens regulatory oversight and fraud detection, enhances oversight, improves law enforcement coordination, and increases penalties to help curb the abuse impacting our industry.”


Rep. Young Kim Introduces SEEDS Act to Lock in the American Dream

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40), Co-Chair of the Financial Literacy Caucus, introduced the Savings and Early Exposure to Diversified Securities (SEEDS) Act of 2026 alongside Representatives Timmons (SC-04) and Salazar (FL-27) to make TRUMP accounts permanent and expand eligible investment options.

The SEEDS Act builds on President Trump’s TRUMP Accounts initiative to expand economic opportunity for all Americans by ensuring every child receives $1,000 invested in the stock market at birth, regardless of income or background. TRUMP Accounts give every American child a financial stake in our economy. Young Americans can watch their savings compound over time and access the funds when they turn 18. The SEEDS Act strengthens this program by giving families greater flexibility to grow long-term savings for their children.

“Every American deserves a stake in America’s Golden Age,” said Rep. Young Kim. “President Trump’s TRUMP Accounts are unleashing economic opportunity by putting the power of the world’s greatest economy to work for our children and grandchildren. The SEEDS Act reinforces this transformative program by making it permanent and giving American families more flexibility to create and grow wealth.”

“By giving every child access to market-based savings at birth, TRUMP Accounts harness the power of American innovation and long-term growth. The SEEDS Act locks in this historic initiative and expands investment flexibility so families can build wealth and secure their children’s future,” said Rep. Timmons.

“America is the land of opportunity and Children are the future of this nation, but opportunity must be built. There is no greater investment we can make than helping set up America’s children financially from birth” said Rep. Salazar. “That is why I am so proud to co-sponsor the SEEDS Act. The Act builds on President Trump’s economic vision, to expand access to opportunity so that every child, regardless of zip code, can have a stake in the greatest economy in the world. By locking in these accounts permanently and expanding investment options, we are giving the next generation the tools to build wealth, pursue opportunity, and live the American Dream.”

The legislation amends the Internal Revenue Code to treat digital asset indexes as eligible investments under Section 530A and removes the sunset provision from the TRUMP Accounts contribution program.


Bacon, Nebraska Delegation Announce Military Service Academy Days

Washington – U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Mike Flood (NE-01), and Adrian Smith (NE-03), and U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) announced four Military Service Academy Days across Nebraska.

Service Academy Days serve to inform high school students about the process to apply for a congressional nomination to a United States military service academy. Service academy representatives and alumni will be present.

“As a veteran who served nearly 30 years in the Air Force, I cannot share enough how much my military career meant to me and these academies help our youth get a start on their own exciting and fulfilling careers. I encourage our high school students to check out each of the academies and wish them the best as they start their application process,” said Rep. Bacon.

"America’s military service academies became the best in the world by developing unparalleled leaders for our nation’s Armed Forces. Our Congressional Delegation’s Academy Days provide an excellent opportunity to learn more about the nomination process and what it takes to earn a spot at one of these distinguished institutions. If you are interested in applying to a service academy, I encourage you to attend one of these events so or teams can help you begin your application journey with confidence,” said Rep. Flood.

“For generations, Nebraskans have served others in their communities, across our state, and around the world. This tradition of service remains one of our greatest strengths. I am proud to partner with our congressional delegation to host Academy Days and provide the next generation of military leaders an opportunity to learn about the nomination process and explore the possibilities our nation’s service academies offer,” said Rep. Smith.

“Nebraska is home to thousands of dedicated service members who set the standard for those looking to serve. It is my pleasure to host Academy Days as an opportunity for students to learn about our nation’s exceptional military service academies and take the first steps towards becoming the future of the United States Armed Services,” said Sen. Fischer.

“Nebraska’s commitment to our Armed Forces is second to none. Each year, I honor that commitment by nominating outstanding young Nebraskans to attend our United States service academies. I encourage high school students from across our state to attend these Service Academy Days to learn more about the nomination process,” said Sen. Ricketts.

All high school students, parents, and guidance counselors who have an interest in the nation’s service academies are welcome and no preregistration is required. The targeted audience is high school freshmen through juniors.

See below for dates, locations, and more information:

Bellevue

March 14, 2026

8:00am-12:00pm

Bellevue University, John B. Muller Admin Building, 812 Bruin Blvd, Bellevue, NE

Columbus

March 18, 2026

6:00pm-8:00pm

Columbus Chamber of Commerce, 753 33rd Avenue, Columbus, NE

North Platte

March 28, 2026

9:00am-12:00pm

Mid-Plains Community College, 1101 Halligan Drive, North Platte, NE

Norfolk

April 1, 2026

6:00pm-8:00pm

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, 609 West Norfolk Avenue, Norfolk, NE

Additional locations to be announced.

Please contact Shannon Howard, Rep. Bacon’s Director of Outreach, at (402) 938-0300 with any questions.

###


Bacon, Golden, and Colleagues Introduce Bill to Formally Review Mental Health Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans

WASHINGTON — Congressmen Don Bacon (NE-02), Jared Golden (ME-02), Jack Bergman (MI-01), and Tom Suozzi (NY-03), introduced the Improving Mental Health Support for Servicemembers and Veterans Act, which would launch a formal review into the effectiveness of the federal government’s mental health programs for veterans and transitioning servicemembers in an effort to address longstanding accessibility issues.

“The transition to civilian life is one of the most vulnerable periods in a servicemember’s career. We must ensure our mental health screening tools are validated, effective, and connecting people to care,” Bacon said. “The Improving Mental Health Support for Servicemembers and Veterans Act strengthens oversight, improves coordination between the Department of Defense and the VA, and helps ensure no servicemember falls through the cracks. I’m pleased to co-lead this bipartisan legislation with Rep. Golden on this important effort to better support our servicemembers and veterans.”

“When I came home from the Marines, I saw how important it is to have a strong support system in your corner. The VA is full of skilled public servants who do that work, but there’s only so much an individual employee can do about the fundamental gaps in service created by an imperfect system,” Golden said. “I’m grateful for the partnership of Congressmen Bergman, Bacon and Suozzi in the effort to show VA leaders just how lacking the agency’s outreach, rural logistics, and staffing efforts have been.”

“I’ve seen firsthand how the transition from active duty to civilian life can be one of the most vulnerable periods in a servicemember’s career. We owe our men and women in uniform more than gratitude - we owe them accountability and results,” Bergman said. “The Improving Mental Health Support for Servicemembers and Veterans Act ensures the Department of War and VA are working together effectively, eliminating gaps and duplication, and delivering real access to mental health care when it matters most. By requiring measurable standards, regular review, and transparency to Congress, this bill strengthens the transition process and helps ensure no Veteran falls through the cracks.”

“Too many veterans and service members fall through the cracks when transitioning from active duty to civilian life. We have to do better,” Suozzi said. “It’s our responsibility as lawmakers and Americans to make sure that everyone who serves our country receives the healthcare, including mental healthcare, they deserve,” said Congressman Tom Suozzi. “It’s common sense to assess and improve veterans’ health services of all kinds as time goes on. This bipartisan bill does just that, and I’m glad to join my colleagues, Congressmen Golden, Bergman, and Bacon, who I also thank for their service. Never forget the vet!”

The Improving Mental Health Support for Servicemembers and Veterans Act would require the Department of Defense-Veterans Affairs Joint Executive Committee (JEC) to assess the effectiveness of their programs and processes in facilitating access to mental health services for veterans returning to civilian life.

Included in JEC’s review would be a complete inventory of the government’s mental health programs, along with metrics, milestones and plans of actions to identify inefficiencies and gaps in programming. There would be a 180-day deadline to present the report to the House and Senate Veterans Affairs Committees.

The legislation would also require the JEC to update its existing Joint Separation Health Assessment (SHA) every two years. The SHA currently uses an outdated process to infrequently catalog veterans’ generalized health needs — an issue that forces policymakers to contend with data that isn’t specific nor timely enough.

Full text of the legislation can be found here.

###


Congressman Baird Announces Opening of USDA Farmer Bridge Assistance Program Enrollment Period

Today, Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has begun the enrollment period for the Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) program. The enrollment period is open now through April 17, 2026.

“The Trump Administration is putting American farmers first,” said Congressman Baird. “I thank President Trump and Secretary Rollins for their work to prioritize the farm economy and provide this critical economic relief for our farmers. I encourage every Hoosier eligible to apply and take advantage of this program, especially as we begin the planting season. I will continue to work with this administration to ensure our farmers flourish, have access to new markets, and lead the world in agricultural production and exports.”

The FBA program provides $11 billion in one-time bridge payments to row crop producers in response to temporary trade market disruptions and increased production costs. The following commodities are eligible for FBA: barley, chickpeas, corn, cotton, lentils, oats, peanuts, peas, rice, sorghum, soybeans, wheat, canola, crambe, flax, mustard, rapeseed, safflower, sesame, and sunflower.

Farmers and producers may complete their applications online or submit to their county Farm Service Agency office.

For more information from the USDA on the FBA program, click here.

###


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

27 February 2026

Contact: Jin.Choi@mail.house.gov

Rep. Barragán Leads Opposition to Proposed HUD Rule That Could Displace Thousands of Mixed-Status Families

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) led a letter to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner, urging the Department to withdraw its proposed rule, “Housing and Community Development Act of 1980: Verification of Eligible Status.” If finalized, the rule would eliminate federal housing assistance for families with mixed immigration status, threatening to displace tens of thousands of American families.

Under current law and federal regulations, HUD provides prorated housing assistance to households with eligible immigration status, based on the number of qualifying residents. Those without eligible immigration status have never received assistance. For example, in a family of four where three members are eligible, the household receives three-quarters of the assistance it would otherwise qualify for. This approach mirrors other federal benefit programs, including SNAP, that ensure only eligible individuals receive assistance.

“The Trump Administration is punishing working families and U.S. citizen children with this cruel proposal,” said Rep. Barragán. “HUD’s proration policy already protects eligible household members while denying benefits to ineligible adults. Ending it won’t make housing more affordable. It will put vulnerable families at risk of losing their homes.”

By overturning HUD’s proration policy, the Trump Administration’s proposed rule would dismantle this balanced system and force families into an impossible choice: separate their households or lose the assistance that keeps a roof over their heads. It would make entire households ineligible for assistance solely because one member lacks an eligible immigration status. The proposal would also expand documentation and verification requirements, increasing administrative burdens on public housing authorities and creating new obstacles for families seeking or maintaining assistance.

According to HUD, approximately 20,000 mixed-status households could be impacted by this proposal. Independent studies have shown that as many as 80,000 individuals could lose assistance if this rule is finalized. That number includes nearly 37,000 children, almost all of whom are U.S. citizens.

California would face some of the most significant impacts. Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley’s Terner Center for Housing Innovation estimate the state has approximately 7,190 households, accounting for 36 percent of all mixed-status households nationwide. Many of these families live in Los Angeles County, where most of the affected households include U.S. citizen children living with at least one adult who has not claimed eligibility for federal assistance.

In a state already facing severe housing shortages and skyrocketing rents, stripping assistance from thousands of legally eligible residents would further strain local housing authorities, destabilize communities, and increase the risk of homelessness among vulnerable families. For Los Angeles and other high-cost regions, where affordable housing waitlists stretch for years, the Trump Administration’s proposal would exacerbate an already dire affordability crisis.

Rep. Barragán’s letter was signed by the following 51 members of Congress: Yassamin Ansari, Suzanne Bonamici, Julia Brownley, Salud Carbajal, Greg Casar, Joaquin Castro, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Judy Chu, Gilbert Cisneros, Yvette Clarke, J. Correa, Jasmine Crockett, Diana DeGette, Mark DeSaulnier, Laura Friedman, Jesús García, Daniel Goldman, Jimmy Gomez, Adelita Grijalva, Steven Horsford, Sara Jacobs, Pramila Jayapal, Henry Johnson, Julie Johnson, Robin Kelly, Timothy Kennedy, Raja Krishnamoorthi, John Larson, Teresa Leger Fernandez, Sam Liccardo, Ted Lieu, Stephen Lynch, Betty McCollum, Morgan McGarvey, Robert Menendez, Jerrold Nadler, Eleanor Norton, Jimmy Panetta, Scott Peters, Chellie Pingree, Mike Quigley, Luz Rivas, Lateefah Simon, Mark Takano, Mike Thompson, Dina Titus, Rashida Tlaib, Paul Tonko, Ritchie Torres, Nydia Velázquez, and Bonnie Watson Coleman.

To see the full letter, click HERE.

###


ICYMI: Bresnahan, Administrator Oz Tour Scranton Hospitals, Luzerne County Nursing School

SCRANTON, PA: Yesterday, U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (PA-08) was joined by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz for visits to Commonwealth Health Regional Hospital of Scranton, Moses Taylor Hospital, and The Francis S. and Mary Gill Carrozza, R.N. Health Sciences Center at Luzerne County Community College (LCCC).

Rep. Bresnahan and Administrator Oz, a board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon, first visited Regional Hospital of Scranton for a tour of the facility’s Heart & Vascular Institute, including the Cath Lab as well as touring the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), led by Tenor Health CEO Radha Savitala and hospital leadership. Along the tour, they met doctors, nurses, support staff, and patients, including Lisa Phillips Chervanka, the clinical lead for interventional radiology and Rep. Bresnahan’s guest at the State of the Union.

“Regional Hospital of Scranton and Moses Taylor Hospital are a cornerstone of healthcare in our region, and our visit showed firsthand the lifesaving work being done right here in Northeastern Pennsylvania,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “Our focus must remain on ensuring long-term stability, expanding access to care, addressing workforce shortages, and delivering the reliable healthcare our communities deserve. I’m grateful to Administrator Oz, CEO Radha Savitala, and all the local leaders who joined our conversation about the future of healthcare in our region.”

“This hospital would not be open today if it wasn’t for Rep. Bresnahan,” said Administrator Oz. “He recognized how vital it is for Northeastern Pennsylvanians to have access to high quality healthcare, and from the beginning, he did his job and made sure the facility remained open to provide care. I was honored to tour the facility and see how it continues serving its community. I know Rep. Bresnahan will continue to fight for healthcare in Northeastern Pennsylvania, and I look forward to seeing this hospital succeed.”

Following their tour of Regional Hospital of Scranton, Rep. Bresnahan, Administrator Oz, and Mrs. Savitala hosted a roundtable with hospital leadership, local physicians, elected officials, school leadership, and healthcare personnel. The group discussed the Rural Health Transformation Fund, strengthening partnerships between schools and hospitals, addressing local healthcare gaps such as pediatric care, ensuring continuity of care across the region, and continuing collaboration among federal, state, and local stakeholders to better support community health needs.

“We were honored to welcome Congressman Rob Bresnahan and Dr. Mehmet Oz to our Scranton hospital facilities this week. It was a great opportunity to showcase the dedicated work of our physicians and staff, and to discuss the important role our hospitals play in serving this community,” said Tenor Health CEO Radha Savitala. “We are grateful for Congressman Bresnahan’s continued support and partnership as we focus on strengthening and growing our hospitals under Tenor Health Foundation. This is an exciting new chapter for our hospitals, and I personally look forward to working with Congressman Rob Bresnahan to help ensure we have the resources necessary to meet both our capital investment and working capital needs. Together, we are focused on long-term stability, growth, and expanded access to high-quality care for the region.”

Rep. Bresnahan and Administrator Oz capped off the day with an interactive tour of LCCC’s Health Science Center, where they visited and practiced healthcare techniques with students and teachers. They observed and later joined students practicing CPR and tested out virtual reality (VR) goggles capable of simulating medical practices and procedures.

“Luzerne County Community College is creating real hands-on opportunities that are preparing students for meaningful careers in healthcare, and it was a privilege to not only see these opportunities in action, but to try it out ourselves,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “The innovative technology and training programs on display here are helping to build the next generation of healthcare professionals. I was proud to join Administrator Oz in highlighting how critical strong, community-based training programs are to strengthening our healthcare workforce and ensuring families across our region have access to quality care.”

“The students and faculty at Luzerne County Community College are truly exceptional, and it’s inspiring to see so many young people stepping up to serve in the healthcare field,” said Administrator Oz. “We know that when nurses train in a community, they will likely stay in the community. Our goal is to make that training more accessible and achievable so we can strengthen and grow the nursing workforce in communities across the region.”

“We were honored to welcome Dr. Oz and Congressman Bresnahan to our Health Science Center,” said LCCC President John Yudichak. “Their visit highlights the incredible work our faculty and students are doing to advance healthcare education in Luzerne County. Experiences like this inspire our students and strengthen our commitment to community-focused learning.”

“Having Dr. Oz and Congressman Bresnahan tour our Health Science Center offers a unique opportunity to showcase the hands-on, innovative programs we provide,” said LCCC Dean of Nursing & Health Sciences Dr. Kim Olszewski. “Our students are dedicated, passionate, and this kind of recognition emphasizes the real-world impact of their education.”

“Visits like today’s remind us of the vital connection between higher education and public health initiatives,” said LCCC VP of Academic Affairs Dr. Russ Bigus. “It’s exciting to share our programs and student achievements with leaders who understand the importance of preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals.”

Additional photos and videos from Rep. Bresnahan and Administrator Oz’s visits can be found here.

###


Congressman Castro Demands Full Disclosure from ICE and Texas DPS Regarding Fatal Shooting of U.S. Citizen Ruben Ray Martinez

For Nearly a Year, ICE and DPS Concealed an ICE Shooting That Left 23-Year-Old Ruben Dead in South Padre Island, Texas

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a new letter, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) demanded full disclosure from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) related to the shooting of Ruben Ray Martinez on March 25, 2025—the first publicly known instance of an ICE agent fatally shooting a U.S. citizen during the second Trump Administration.

“For nearly a year, your agencies appeared to have participated in a cover up. Mr. Martinez’s life was tragically cut short, and his family deserves a full and complete understanding of the events leading up to his death. Mr. Martinez should not have died, and your agencies must be fully transparent about the circumstances surrounding his death,” wrote Congressman Castro.

Castro continued by highlighting the effort to withhold information from the victim’s family and the public, adding, “The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Department of Homeland Security withheld basic information, concealed the fact that an ICE agent shot Mr. Martinez, and advanced a narrative that is disputed by an eyewitness.”

Congressman Castro is requesting the immediate release of all body-camera and dash-camera footage, along with any radio, text, or phone communications from officers before and after the shooting. He is also demanding all records related to the DPS and DHS investigations, including all communications between DPS, the Texas Rangers, and ICE. To read the full letter, click here.


Ciscomani Accepting Submissions for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition

Tucson, AZ - Congressman Juan Ciscomani is proud to announce that submissions for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition are now open. Each spring, this nation-wide high school arts competition is sponsored by the Members of the U.S. House of Representatives and is an opportunity to recognize and encourage the artistic talent in the nation, as well as in our Congressional District.

The Congressional Art Competition is open to all high school students in Arizona’s Sixth District. The winning artwork of our district's competition will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol. The exhibit in Washington will include the winning artwork from all participating districts from around the country. The winning artwork is also featured on House.gov's Congressional Art Competition page.

The deadline for submissions for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition is Thursday, April 16, 2026.

As this July 4th marks the semi quincentennial anniversary of the birth of our nation, students are encouraged but not required to use the 250th theme in their submissions.

"The annual Congressional Art Competition is an opportunity to shine a light on the many talented young artists in Arizona’s 6th Congressional District," said Congressman Ciscomani. "I look forward to seeing the art, meeting the artists and showing off the winning work in the Capitol Building."

For more details, click HERE.

###


Higgins Announces Additional $67M for Hurricane Recovery Projects in South Louisiana

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) announced the approval of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding for six additional projects in Louisiana’s 3rd District, totaling $67,431,429.58. The reimbursements to local government and non-profit entities add to the over $5 billion in previously announced recovery funds and cover damages incurred due to the impact of Hurricanes Laura, Ida, and Francine.

Rep. Higgins said, “Even during a Democrat-forced shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security, President Trump and Secretary Noem’s FEMA is providing disaster relief funding for Louisianans. My office will continue to work with our federal partners to ensure necessary resources continue to be delivered.”

Much of our official Congressional work to advance recovery projects occurs behind the scenes. Funding finalization and the associated formal announcement of funding are the result of constant efforts over many months with FEMA and state and local stakeholders. All funding will be delivered to the State of Louisiana. The state is responsible for disbursing the funds to each sub-recipient.

Below is a list of projects in Louisiana’s Third Congressional District for which FEMA grants were recently approved.


Rep. Clyde Hosts Blue Ridge Service Academy Day

GAINESVILLE, GA – Last week, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) hosted Blue Ridge Service Academy Day to help Ninth District students and their families learn about the five U.S. Service Academies and the congressional nomination process.

Each year, Congressman Clyde nominates eligible candidates for appointment to four of the five U.S. Service Academies: U.S. Military Academy (USMA), West Point, NY; the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA), Annapolis, MD; the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA), Colorado Springs, CO; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA), Kings Point, NY. The fifth academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA), New London, CT, does not require a congressional nomination for appointment.

In partnership with Rep. Chuck Edwards (NC-11), Rep. Clyde hosted students, parents, and school counselors at Rabun County High School to gather information and resources from representatives from each of the five U.S. Service Academies.

“One of the greatest honors of serving the Ninth District is the opportunity to assist Northeast Georgians in their journey to military service,” said Clyde. “I’m so pleased that our Blue Ridge Service Academy Day was a success – featuring a great turnout, patriotic students, and beneficial insight into our nation’s prestigious military academies and the congressional nomination process. I wish all aspiring nominees the best of luck, and I look forward to helping them navigate the process ahead.”

Rep. Clyde’s 2026 Blue Ridge Service Academy Day

Last month, Congressman Clyde announced his nomination of 16 students from Georgia’s Ninth District as candidates to the U.S. Service Academies.


Congressman Cohen Receives 93 Percent on ACLU’s Legislative Scorecard

WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government, today received a 93 percent score on the American Civil Liberties Union Legislative Scorecard.

Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

“I have always been a staunch supporter of our civil liberties and appreciate the work the ACLU does in promoting and protecting them. That’s why I am grateful to see it recognize my consistent voting record to protect our civil rights.”

Congressman Cohen was the Chairman of the Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and Civil Liberties in the 117th Congress (2021-2023).

# # #


Congressman Cohen Receives 96 Precent on League of Conservation Voters’ Scorecard

WASHINGTON – On Thursday, Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) received a 96 percent on the League of Conservation Voters’ National Environmental Scorecard for his voting record on 28 measures in 2025 deemed important to the organization. The votes ranged from protections for endangered species to clean energy and sustainable treatment of federal lands. Congressman Cohen is the only member of the Tennessee Congressional delegation who scored higher than zero.

Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

“I am proud to have the recognition and strong endorsement of my legislative record on conservation issues from the League of Conservation Voters. My lifetime score of 97 percent shows a consistency on matters involving our natural environment and wildlife that demonstrates my long-term commitment to these values. I commend the LCV for the work it does on behalf of our natural world.”

# # #


Davids Meets with Local Housing Leaders to Address Kansas’ Affordable Housing Shortage

OLATHE, KS — Today, Representative Sharice Davids joined local housing and community development professionals to better understand the challenges and opportunities Kansans face in accessing affordable housing. The roundtable focused on practical, bipartisan solutions to ensure families across the Third District can find safe, stable, and affordable places to live — whether they are first-time homebuyers, renters, or looking to downsize or upsize as their needs change.

“Housing isn’t just about having a roof over your head — it’s about stability, opportunity, and dignity,” said Davids. “When families are forced to spend more than half of their income on rent, they’re making impossible choices between housing, food, health care, and child care. I’m committed to working across the aisle to expand affordable housing options so Kansans can build secure futures in the communities they call home.”

Across Kansas, there is a shortage of rental homes that are affordable and available to low-income households, causing many families to spend more than half of their monthly income on housing. It’s estimated that in 2021, Kansas had more than 55,000 fewer rental homes than needed. Also, currently 40 percent of renters in Johnson County are housing cost-burdened, meaning these families and others across the state must forego necessities — food, health care, child care — to afford rent.

Last year, Davids released her Housing Affordability Agenda, outlining a path forward for bipartisan legislation in Congress to ensure every American has access to safe, decent, affordable housing and the amenities needed to thrive. Her agenda centers on expanding supply, reducing cost burdens, and strengthening consumer protections in the housing market.

Earlier this month, Davids voted to pass the Housing for the 21st Century Act, the first comprehensive, bipartisan housing package in nearly a decade. The landmark legislation incorporates key provisions to:

expand access to homeownership,

accelerate the construction of manufactured housing,

increase the availability of small-dollar mortgages,

strengthen protections for borrowers and families living in public and assisted housing,

enhance federal oversight of housing providers,

and help lay the groundwork for new affordable housing development nationwide.

Along with her affordable housing agenda, Davids has worked across the aisle with her Kansas colleagues to make housing more affordable and accessible. She and former Rep. Jake LaTurner (R-KS-02) urged U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson to schedule a vote on bipartisan legislation that boosts affordable rental housing options in rural, suburban, and urban Kansas. Davids has also secured federal funding for multiple housing projects across Kansas’ Third District, from rural to urban to suburban communities.

Representatives at today’s conversation, which took place at Habitat for Humanity’s Pathway at Heritage Park project, included: Brennan Crawford, Executive Director and CEO, Build WyCo; Lindsay Hicks, President and CEO, Habitat KC; Megan Foreman, Housing Coordinator, Johnson County; Will Ruder, Executive Vice President, Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City; Tim Holverson, President, De Soto Chamber of Commerce; and Ryan Vincent, Executive Director, Kansas Housing Corporation.


Congresswoman Escobar Statement on Measles at Camp East Montana

Today, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) released the following statement in response to the Public Health Officials from the City of El Paso confirming measles cases at Camp East Montana:

"It should come as no surprise that there is a measles outbreak at Camp East Montana. This public health crisis is a direct result of the manner in which Acquisition Logistics operates the facility: an explicit effort to maximize profits at the expense of federal standards for services such as medical attention.

"Such an inexperienced, incompetent private prison corporation does not share our community’s interests or those of the detainees. For these reasons and more, I continue my calls for Camp East Montana to be shut down and Acquisition Logistics to be investigated."


Rep. Fischbach Introduces TEAM USA Act to End the Victory Tax for All American Medalists

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) sent a clear message to the world: we will not tax American exceptionalism. Fischbach announced the introduction of the Tax Exemption for American Medalists (TEAM USA) Act, legislation designed to ensure that when our athletes dominate the global stage, the IRS does not get to treat their excellence as a taxable offense.

“America is a nation built on the pursuit of greatness, and our Olympians and Paralympians are the ultimate proof of that spirit,” said Congresswoman Fischbach. “When our athletes win, the whole country wins with them. We should be doing everything in our power to celebrate these victories. We are proud of these Americans, we are proud to be American, and we should never get tired of seeing our flag at the top of the mast.”

The TEAM USA Act eliminates the “Victory Tax” for all American medalists, ensuring that the rewards of gold, silver, and bronze remain exactly what they are: symbols of national glory.

“It is time we stop taxing greatness. We are proud of these men and women, and we are proud to be a country that reaches for the top,” Fischbach continued. “My bill is simple: If you win for America, you keep your winnings. We are not a nation that settles for participation trophies, and we should not be a nation that taxes winners.”

“America’s Olympians exemplify the spirit and greatness of our Nation. When our Olympians bring home the gold, they shouldn’t be punished with a burdensome tax bill, as well. The TEAM USA Act rewards the hard work, success, and the American Dream,” said Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA), Chairman of the Ways & Means Subcommittee on Tax.

To ensure the champions of the 2026 Winter Games are honored under this new standard of excellence, the TEAM USA Act is retroactive to January 1, 2026. This legislation reaffirms that in the United States, we reward our best.


Rep. Foushee Announces Legislation to Close AI Research Funding Gaps and Establish AI Institutes at HBCUs

WASHINGTON, DC (February 27, 2026) — Today, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04), a Co-Chair of the House Democratic Commission on AI and the Innovation Economy, announced she will be introducing the HBCU Artificial Intelligence Research Leadership Act, legislation to provide federal funding to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to establish Artificial Intelligence (AI) Research Institutes.

“As a member of the House, Science, Space, and Technology Committee and Co-Chair of the House Democratic Commission on AI and the Innovation Economy, I have fought to expand access to AI education, research, and career pathways for historically underrepresented communities,” said Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04). “The HBCU Artificial Intelligence Research Leadership Act builds on that work by closing longstanding research funding gaps and opening doors for students and researchers from every community through the establishment of HBCU AI Research Institutes. This legislation expands access to cutting-edge research, strengthens the AI workforce pipeline, and creates high-quality jobs and economic opportunity in communities that have too often been left out of major federal investments. By ensuring HBCUs are full partners in our national AI research network, we are building a more equitable innovation economy and ensuring that the talent and excellence at our HBCUs help lead the future of artificial intelligence.”

Specifically, the HBCU Artificial Intelligence Research Leadership Act would establish HBCU Artificial Intelligence Research Institutes by requiring 10 percent of the research institutes established through the National Science Foundation (NSF)’s National Artificial Intelligence Research Institutes program be operated by, or in partnership with, an HBCU. This legislation would ensure that the talent and research capacity at our HBCUs are fully integrated into the National AI Research Institute network administered by the NSF.

The HBCU AI Research Leadership Act is endorsed by the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) Payne Research Center, Alabama A&M University, the Atlanta University Center Consortium, Inc. (AUCC), and the Universities Space Research Association (USRA) HBCU Science and Technology (S&T) Council. A formal letter of endorsement from the TMCF Payne Research Center can be found here, as well as a formal letter of endorsement from the AUC Consortium, Inc. which can be found here.

“The HBCU AI Research Leadership Act is a pivotal step toward democratizing AI research and development. By mandating dedicated resources for HBCUs to lead or co-lead National AI Research Institutes, Congresswoman Foushee is ensuring that the future of artificial intelligence is built by the brightest minds from every community. This Act leverages the research findings in the recent Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) report, “The American Dividend: Public HBCUs Powering National Strength and Opportunity.” The Payne Center stands ready to support TMCF member institutions in leveraging this opportunity to lead the world in AI research,” said M. C. Brown II, Ph.D., Executive Director of The Payne Center.

“The HBCU Artificial Intelligence Research Leadership Act is essential to ensure American leadership in Artificial Intelligence globally in the 21st century and beyond,” said Dr. Daniel K. Wims, President of Alabama A&M University.

“The AUC Consortium, Inc. (AUCC) is dedicated to advancing collaborative scientific excellence toward the development of conscientious STEM and AI talent. Support from the government will ignite the speed of innovation and implementation needed to maintain the Nation’s competitive edge in AI,” said Michael Hodge, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Atlanta University Center Consortium (AUCC).

“From my experience leading an artificial intelligence research institute at an HBCU, I have seen firsthand the depth of talent, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community-centered innovation these institutions contribute to emerging technologies. Formalizing structured pathways for HBCUs to participate in national AI research institutes strengthens the country’s innovation ecosystem and ensures the next generation of AI leaders is prepared to drive global competitiveness,” said Dr. Siobahn Day Grady, Founding Director of the North Carolina Central University Institute of AI and Emerging Research (IAIER).

“The HBCU S&T Council endorses the draft legislation for the HBCU AI Leadership Act by Congresswoman Foushee that will provide resources for transformative research and workforce development, such that the U.S. maintains its global leadership in artificial intelligence,” said Dr. Michelle John, Chair of the USRA HBCU Science and Technology Council.

“AI is one of the critical technologies that the Administration has prioritized, and within the spirit of the President’s Executive Order for excellence and innovation at our nation’s HBCUs, this legislation builds on our work together to advance America’s economic development and national security,” said Dr. Victor McCrary, USRA HBCU Science and Technology Council Emeritus Chair and Chair of the National Science Board.

“As President of Morris College, I support the HBCU AI Research Leadership Act introduced by Congresswoman Foushee," Said President of Morris College, Dr. Said Sewell.

The full bill text of the HBCU Artificial Intelligence Leadership Act can be found here.

###