Congresswoman Beatty’s Statement on President Trump’s Announced Two-Year Closure of the Kennedy Center

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tonight, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) released the following statement in response to President Trump’s announced two-year closure of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts:

“Once again, Donald Trump has acted with total disregard for Congress. The Kennedy Center is congressionally funded, and Congress should have been consulted on any decision to shut down its operations or undertake major renovations, especially for a two-year period.

Countless employees, artists, and others have existing contracts and agreements with the Center. What happens to them? Has Trump or his handpicked Board given any consideration to their livelihoods or futures? This is precisely why congressional oversight is essential.

And let’s be clear: remodeling the premises will not restore the Kennedy Center to what it was. A return to artistic independence will. America’s artists are rejecting this attempted takeover, and the administration knows it. That is why they are now scrambling for cover.”

###


LEADER JEFFRIES ON ABC: “THE DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY NEEDS TO BE DRAMATICALLY REFORMED”

Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on ABC’s This Week, where he emphasized that House Democrats will continue to hold Donald Trump and Republicans accountable for the extremism they are unleashing on the American people and for their failure to lower the high cost of living.

GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: We’re joined now by the House Democratic Leader, Hakeem Jeffries. Congressman Jeffries, thank you for joining us right now. So this passed the House, so they passed the bill to keep the government open for another couple of weeks as you try to negotiate reforms on Homeland Security funding. Will the House follow the Senate’s lead and vote to keep the government open?

LEADER JEFFRIES: It was a meaningful step in the right direction, certainly the separation of the five bipartisan bills, which in our view promote the health, the safety and the economic well-being of the American people, need to move forward. And we’ll meet later on this afternoon as a Caucus to discuss what we believe is the best path. What is clear is that the Department of Homeland Security needs to be dramatically reformed—we share that view, as does Leader Schumer and Senate Democrats—in a variety of different ways. Body cameras should be mandatory. Masks should come off. Judicial warrants should absolutely be required consistent with the Constitution in our view before DHS agents or ICE agents are breaking into the homes of the American people or ripping people out of their cars. We need to make sure that there are complete and independent investigations so that when ICE or DHS agents break the law, they are held accountable, not by the Department of Justice, which has no interest in actually conducting a fair investigation in our view, but by state and local authorities. And we need to reiterate that the detention and deportation of American citizens, off the table. And using taxpayer dollars to brutalize everyday Americans or violently target law-abiding immigrant families needs to be off the table.

GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: That’s a list of serious reforms. Will you vote to keep funding Department of Homeland Security for the next two weeks as you negotiate those reforms?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, we’re going to have that conversation later on today and as we return to Washington. But the one thing that we’ve said publicly is that we need a robust path toward dramatic reform. The administration can’t just talk the talk. They need to walk the walk. That should begin today. Not in two weeks, today.

GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: But can you get these reforms that you’re calling for? No masks, body cameras. You just heard Deputy Attorney General Blanche say that they’re very much in support of these administrative warrants, not judicial warrants. Can you get them? How can they be enforced?

LEADER JEFFRIES: The administrative warrants, in our view, aren’t worth the paper they are written on. This is an extreme administration unleashing brutality on the American people using taxpayer dollars. So we absolutely, as a condition of moving forward, in my view—I think this is a broadly held perspective shared by Democrats in the House and the Senate—need judicial warrants. More importantly, George, it’s a perspective held by the American people and we’re standing on their side.

GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: Even if you get the agreement of Republicans in the Congress, can you trust the administration to actually enforce the changes?

LEADER JEFFRIES: This is one of the reasons—well, you’re absolutely correct that this is an untrustworthy administration. They’ve been lawless from the very beginning. It’s one of the reasons why we need to actually build these strict requirements in terms of behavior into the law so that the courts can hold them accountable and the American people through their representatives at the state and local level can hold these individuals accountable. But, you know, from the very beginning of this effort, with respect to the Department of Homeland Security, our premise has been simple—that ICE agents should conduct themselves like every other law enforcement agency in the country as opposed to running around, masked thugs in many instances, unleashing brutality on law-abiding American citizens and violently targeting immigrant families and communities or even, you know, holding in detention a five-year-old boy with a superhero backpack. That’s not the type of violent felon that the administration promised they were going to target. And the American people are rejecting it and we’re going to stand on their side.

GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: Let me turn to the Epstein files. You heard Deputy Attorney General Blanche say this is over. They’ve released everything, just about everything they’re going to release. They’re going to allow Members of Congress to look at these unredacted files as well. So is it over?

LEADER JEFFRIES: It’s not over, and it will not be over until there is full and complete transparency as demanded by the survivors so that there can be full and complete accountability. This is a basic premise here in the country. And there are more than three million documents that are being withheld by the Department of Injustice. And so the question that has to be asked, that the American people are asking, is what are they hiding from the American people and who are they protecting? This was a law that was passed by bipartisan majorities in the House and in the Senate, reluctantly on the Republican side, but we brought them over into a more enlightened position, and it was even signed by Donald Trump as President. And so the demand is simple—comply with the law so that we can achieve the type of full transparency and visibility for the American people about all the wrongdoing that occurred and ensure that there can be accountability so that something like this, this reign of terror, never happens again.

GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: On the Epstein issue, as you know, the House Oversight Committee voted to hold President Clinton and Secretary of State Clinton in contempt. Nine Democrats voted for that resolution as well. It’s probably going to come to the House floor this week. You said you’re against this contempt vote. Why are you against it? How are you going to advise other Democrats to vote?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, we’ll have a conversation about that when we return. I think our view, my view at least, is that the Clintons have engaged in good-faith negotiations to try to arrive at an accommodation so that their testimony is offered with the Oversight Committee. And James Comer, the so-called Chair of the Oversight Committee, he just needs to take yes for an answer because it’s clear that the Clintons are prepared to appear and to have recorded testimony so that there’s a track record that everyone can subsequently evaluate. The notion that they’re going to go after Secretary Clinton and Bill Clinton with criminal contempt, in other words this is sort of a lock-her-up approach, seems completely inconsistent with the law if the goal is to actually try to get the information as opposed to create a political spectacle.

GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: Do you think it’s possible that they can reach an agreement before the House votes on contempt?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Yes, and I’m very hopeful that an agreement will be reached so that the testimony can be adduced and the chips will fall where they may. The Clintons are ready to testify. That’s been made clear. The Republicans need to take yes for an answer.

GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: As you saw, I had several questions for Deputy Attorney General Blanche about conflicts of interest, including about this new report in the Wall Street Journal showing that the National Security Advisor to the UAE made an investment in the Trump family company just before the inauguration. As you know, there’s been several actions taken with the UAE since then. He says there’s no conflict. How do you respond?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Of course there’s a conflict. We have three issues of priority as House Democrats that we want to work on on behalf of the American people. One, we have to drive down the high cost of living, of course, because America is too expensive. Donald Trump promised to lower costs on day one. Costs haven’t gone down. They’ve gone up. Housing costs out of control. Grocery costs out of control. Utility bills, electricity bills totally out of control. Healthcare costs, of course, child care costs. All of it out of control. We need to deal with that. We need to fix our broken healthcare system, particularly in the midst of the assault that Republicans have launched. In their One Big Ugly Bill, they enacted the largest cut to Medicaid in American history, ripping healthcare away from millions of people, and in that same bill gave the Department of Homeland Security $191 billion, including $75 billion that went to ICE, so that taxpayer dollars could be used to brutalize the American people. We also need to clean up corruption wherever it’s found in the Congress, at the Supreme Court and certainly with the administration, I think the most corrupt administration in American history. Why is Donald Trump focused on enriching himself, his family and his friends, as opposed to focused on driving down the high cost of living? Why is he focused on destroying half the White House, trying to extort $230 [million] from the Department of Justice, or promoting his wife’s documentary, as opposed to fixing our broken healthcare system? Why is he focused on brutalizing everyday Americans by unleashing these masked agents in American communities as opposed to doing his job? Like the American people, George, have enough. The question is when will Republicans have enough with this failed presidency?

GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: Mr. Jeffries, thanks for your time this morning.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you.

Full interview can be watched here.

###


LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT ON BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries released the following statement in commemoration of the beginning of Black History Month:

One hundred years ago, Dr. Carter G. Woodson established Negro History Week, the precursor to Black History Month, to celebrate the contributions and achievements of Black Americans. Dr. Woodson made the astute observation that “those who have no record of what their forebears have accomplished lose the inspiration which comes from the teaching of biography and history.”

Black history is an indispensable part of the American story. From the resilience of enslaved Africans who were first brought here in 1619 to the valor of Black troops who served in every U.S. military conflict since the American revolution, brilliance of inventors like Dr. Charles Drew and courage of civil rights champions like Rosa Parks, Dr. King, Fannie Lou Hamer and John Lewis, Black Americans have shaped us into the nation we are today.

Ensuring that the full story of America is told is now more important than ever, with Donald Trump and his sycophants banning books about Black people from classrooms and libraries, sanitizing history at National Parks and Smithsonian museums and repeatedly glorifying the racist traitors who fought for the Confederacy. This erasure of history paired with the Trump administration’s elimination of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives is part of a concerted attack on the livelihoods of Black Americans.

House Democrats will push back aggressively against efforts to turn back the clock on progress and whitewash American history. We remain inspired by the examples of those who got into Good Trouble and committed to pushing forward our country’s long, necessary and majestic march towards a more perfect union. Together, we shall overcome.

###


For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland

February 1, 2026 202-808-6129

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT ALERTS TRAVELERS: NEW TSA FEE TAKES EFFECT FEBRUARY 1 FOR THOSE WITHOUT REAL ID

WASHINGTON, DC — Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (D-USVI) alerts Virgin Islands residents and all travelers that beginning February 1, 2026, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will implement a $45 TSA ConfirmID fee for those arriving at airport security checkpoints without proper identification. This is a nationwide policy affecting all U.S. airports. The fee will apply to travelers aged 18 and older who do not have a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or other TSA-approved form of identification, such as a valid U.S. passport.

TSA ConfirmID is a voluntary, paid service that uses biometric data and federal databases to verify a traveler's identity. The non-refundable $45 fee must be paid through Pay.gov and is valid for 10 days from the travel start date entered during payment. If you travel after the 10-day expiration, you must pay the fee again. While travelers can access Pay.gov on their mobile device at the airport, TSA strongly recommends paying in advance to avoid significant delays.

Important details travelers should know:

Accepted forms of ID include REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, U.S. passports, passport cards, and other TSA-approved forms of identification.

TSA ConfirmID is voluntary. However, without it or acceptable ID, you may not be allowed through security and could miss your flight.

Bring a printed or electronic copy of your TSA ConfirmID payment receipt to show at the checkpoint.

Payment must be made through Pay.gov using a valid bank account (ACH), debit card, credit card, Venmo, or PayPal. Cash is not accepted.

Payment of the ConfirmID fee does not guarantee clearance through security. If identity cannot be confirmed, you may not be allowed through security.

The identity verification process at the checkpoint takes an average of 10-15 minutes but could take more time.

"I want to ensure that Virgin Islands residents are aware of this change well in advance so they can plan accordingly and avoid unexpected fees or travel disruptions," said Congresswoman Plaskett. "Thanks to the dedicated work of the Virgin Islands Bureau of Motor Vehicles, residents can obtain REAL ID-compliant licenses. I strongly encourage anyone planning to travel to verify their identification is valid."

Virgin Islands residents can apply for a REAL ID-compliant driver's license at their local Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) by appointment only. For more information about REAL ID requirements, visit bmv.vi.gov.

St. Thomas BMV Office: 4605 Tutu Park Mall - Suite 231, (340) 774-4268

St. Croix BMV Office: 10065 Industrial Park, (340) 713-4268

St. John BMV Office: Government Complex, Cruz Bay, (340) 776-6262

###


Two Coast ports receive federal funds

WXXV Staff

President Trump has signed an appropriations bill into law that earmarks money for two Mississippi Coast ports.

The Fiscal Year 26 Energy and Water Development Bill will send $6.7 million to the Port of Gulfport and $6.5 Million to Port Pascagoula Harbor for future dredging and maintenance projects.

Other projects elsewhere in the state received millions of dollars in funding, including flood control projects in North Mississippi.


Murphy On Fox News: The Country Is Less Safe Because Of ICE

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, on Sunday appeared on Fox News Sunday with Shannon Bream. As Americans decisively turn against the Trump administration’s lawless immigration enforcement operations, Murphy made the case for why Republicans and Democrats must come together to hold an out-of-control Department of Homeland Security accountable to our laws and Constitution. Offering firsthand evidence from his recent oversight trip to detention facilities and an immigration court in Texas, Murphy also debunked the Trump administration’s lies about DHS’s enforcement practices, effect on public safety, and compliance with the law.

Emphasizing the urgent stakes of the DHS funding fight, Murphy detailed the chaos ICE has sowed in our cities: “What is happening in Minnesota right now is a dystopia. ICE is tear gassing elementary schools. It is disappearing legal residents into cars. It is murdering American citizens. ICE is making this country less safe, not more safe. Today, that is an emergency.”

Murphy argued Congress has a clear mandate from the American people to rein in Trump’s DHS: “Today, 60% of the American people vehemently disagree with what ICE is doing, and we have to address that emergency right now… The American people have turned against what he is doing. What we want in these next two weeks is to just make ICE follow the law, right? No more of these roving patrols through the cities in which they're demanding that American citizens show their papers. That's what happened in Stalin's Russia. That's what happened in Maduro’s Venezuela. That's not America. What we want is for ICE to be able to identify themselves – no more secret police – and then we want accountability for these crimes.”

Murphy set the record straight on who ICE is targeting: “I mean, come on, we're still pretending that ICE is going after dangerous people? They aren't. Right now, 70% of the people that they are detaining have absolutely no criminal record.”

Murphy appealed to conservatives who value their rights and the Constitution: “If you're a conservative in this country, you should care about the fact that your government is intentionally hurting kids. You should care about the fact that this government is violating the Fourth Amendment, the Second Amendment and the First Amendment every single day on the streets of this country. This is a lawless administration that is also traumatizing our kids, and it just shouldn't matter if you're a progressive, you're a Trump voter, if you're a Biden voter, if you're a liberal – the Constitution is the Constitution, and [it] is being violated every single minute on the streets of this country today.”

Murphy stressed ICE’s violent abuses and lawlessness is a national problem that extends much further than Minnesota: “I was in Texas two weeks ago, and it is true that while the nation's attention is on Minnesota, where you have American citizens being murdered in cold blood on the street by ICE, the law is being violated very quietly in other places. In Texas, they're violating people's rights every single day. They're locking up hundreds and hundreds of children. They are traumatizing two-year-olds and five-year-olds for no reason. I sat inside an immigration court and watched legal residents coming in, applying for asylum, playing by the rules, and then getting disappeared out of the courtroom by ICE with absolutely no explanation… Just because our eyes aren't trained on a place like Texas doesn't mean that the violation of the law throughout the country is something that we should just excuse.”

Murphy slammed Trump for killing comprehensive, bipartisan immigration reform, , arguing the President would rather weaponize a chaotic immigration system to stoke division: “I sat in a room with conservative Republican James Lankford for five months rewriting America's immigration laws so that we would never have this situation, so that we could resolve these cases at the border when somebody is applying for asylum, and Donald Trump killed that bipartisan immigration reform proposal. He's not convening any process to bring Republicans together to try to reform our laws.”

He continued: “Donald Trump wants to use the issue of immigration to divide us from each other, to try to make us believe that our neighbors, our lawful resident neighbors, are something that we have to fear. So if Donald Trump wants to try to engage in a comprehensive effort to reform our immigration law – great. But he's not doing that. He's just using our immigration laws to terrorize Americans.”

Sharing the story of a family he met in Texas, Murphy exposed ICE’s deliberate, systemic efforts to traumatize children: “I sat across from a father detained with his two little children. Even though their mother was at home. They literally got ripped out of the car. Their mother was sitting there with their backpacks, and they were detained. Their mother was at home. The kids were begging to leave every single day. Listen, let's talk about the facts. They are intentionally traumatizing kids.”

Blasting the Trump administration’s shameful rhetoric following the murder of Alex Pretti, Murphy highlighted why Congress must enforce independent investigations: “The fix is in. Within hours of Alex Pretti’s murder, the people in charge of the Department of Homeland Security and the immigration policy in the White House were calling him a domestic terrorist. Were calling him an assassin. How can you believe that there's going to be an independent investigation? And why are they blocking a state investigation? … There has to be a state investigation as well.”

A full transcript of the interview is available below.

Bream: Joining us is the top Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, Chris Murphy. Senator, good to have you this morning.

Murphy: Great to be with you.

Bream: Okay, so we're going to talk to Senator Graham in a few minutes. And I do think there are places that you guys have some agreement, body cams and those kinds of things. Seems to be some bipartisan buy in. Now, Tom Homan went to Minneapolis this week, said he's trying to turn down the temperature there. He says, ‘Yes, states don't have to cooperate, but where they do it can be helpful.’

Here's what he said, ‘the more agents we have in the jails - to arrest these people in the safety and security of a jail - it's safer for the officer, it’s safer for the aliens, safer for the community. So one agent can arrest a bad guy in a jail, rather than sending a whole team to the community. And with all the hate and radical intent, then we got to send another team for security. So what one agent can do in a jail, we got to send 15 or 16 guys to do.’

Does that sound like a reasonable step to you? People who are in jail going to be released by a state or locality? ICE has said we got a detainer on this person. We think they're removable. Let one agent go in to the jail, versus what we're seeing on the streets of Minneapolis.

Murphy: I mean, come on, we're still pretending that ICE is going after dangerous people? They aren't right? Right now, 70% of the people that they are detaining have absolutely no criminal record. What is happening -

Bream: DHS says 70% of those they're arresting, and that's their number, do have some kind of criminal record.

Murphy: What is happening in Minnesota right now is a dystopia. ICE is tear gassing elementary schools. It is disappearing legal residents into cars. It is murdering American citizens. ICE is making this country less safe, not more safe, today. That is an emergency. That's why, today, 60% of the American people vehemently disagree with what ICE is doing, and we have to address that emergency right now. The constitution is being abandoned by this administration, right now as we speak. And so our focus over the next two weeks has to be reining in a lawless and immoral immigration agency in this nation. That's work that we have to do in the next two weeks. Hopefully it's work that Republicans and Democrats will be able to agree on.

Bream: Okay, there are a number of cities where there are major enforcements going on, but we aren't seeing these same things. Charlotte, Miami, New Orleans, Phoenix, some places that have local leaders who are Democrats, that they're working together. There's just been a major operation: ICE teams from Philadelphia operating in West Virginia, they rounded up about 650 people. Don't see the protest there.

ICE Director Todd Lyons says this, ‘When state and local law enforcement work with ICE, immigration enforcement is seamless. It all takes place behind closed doors, between law enforcement professionals, and that's why the public never hears about it.’

So again, would you be for allowing ICE to go in? And our new Fox News polling shows people are 50-50 on this, they think that the locals should work with ICE to cooperate where they can.

Murphy: Well, I was in Texas two weeks ago, and it is true that, well, the nation's attention is on Minnesota - where you have American citizens being murdered in cold blood on the street by ICE - the law is being violated very quietly in other places. In Texas, they're violating people's rights every single day. They're locking up hundreds and hundreds of children. They are traumatizing two-year-olds and five- year-olds for no reason. I sat inside an immigration court and watched legal residents coming in, applying for asylum, playing by the rules, and then getting disappeared out of the courtroom by ICE with absolutely no explanation.

So it is true that we're watching the worst of the worst in Minneapolis, but it should concern every American citizen that there are legal immigrants in this country, tens of thousands of legal immigrants who are doing it the right way - who are applying for asylum - who are being disappeared into horrific prisons all across the country. And just because our eyes aren't trained on a place like Texas doesn't mean that the violation of the law throughout the country is something that we should just excuse.

Bream: Well, when you say disappear, there is a way to track people when they're detained. And if you're in this country illegally, even if you're applying for asylum, if you've overstayed parole or something else, the law allows for your detainment. When it comes to kids, DHS will say, “Listen, the policy - and it's been this way back to Obama and before - that if you have a child, and you are being detained, you have the option of allowing that child to stay with another relative or someone else safe, but if the parent opts that they want the child with them in detention, that's the parents decision.’

Murphy: That is not what is happening today. I mean, I sat across from a father who was detained with his two little children. Even though their mother was at home. They literally got ripped out of the car. Their mother was sitting there with their backpacks, and they were detained with their father -

Bream: But that’s the father's choice.

Murphy: No, that’s not their father’s choice - their mother was at home! The kids were begging to leave every single day. Listen, let's talk about the facts. They are intentionally traumatizing kids. And listen, if you're a conservative in this country, you should care about the fact that your government is intentionally hurting kids. You should care about the fact that this government is violating the Fourth Amendment, the Second Amendment and the First Amendment every single day on the streets of this country. This is a lawless administration that is also traumatizing our kids. And it just shouldn't matter, if you're a progressive, you're a Trump voter, if you're a Biden voter, if you're a liberal - the constitution is the constitution, and [it] is being violated every single minute on the streets of this country today.

Bream: Okay, so we had a federal judge rule a couple of days ago - this is a Biden appointee - saying that the ICE operations can continue in Minneapolis, in Minnesota. That's a Biden appointee judge saying, ‘Listen, this is the law.’ And you know, you've heard a lot of people from Tom Homan, back to President Obama, saying, ‘If you don't like the law, you got to change it.’ With these kinds of raids, this kind of ICE enforcement happened under the Obama administration as well. Why not change the law? If you don't like what ICE is doing?

Murphy: Well, as you know, I sat in a room with a conservative Republican, James Lankford, for five months rewriting America's immigration laws so that we would never have this situation, so that we could resolve these cases at the border when somebody is applying for asylum. And Donald Trump killed that bipartisan immigration reform proposal. He's not convening any process to bring Republicans together to try to reform our laws. Donald Trump wants to use the issue of immigration to divide us from each other, to try to make us believe that our neighbors, our lawful resident neighbors, are something that we have to fear. So if Donald Trump wants to try to engage in a comprehensive effort to reform our immigration laws, great. But he's not doing that. He's just using our immigration laws to terrorize Americans.

Bream: But what he's done right now is give blessing to this deal between Senate Democrats, the White House, they negotiated this thing which gives you this two weeks to talk about changes to ICE . So he at least is open to that conversation.

Murphy: Listen, I hope he understands that the American people have turned against what he is doing. What we want in these next two weeks is to just make ICE follow the law, right?

No more of these roving patrols through the cities in which they're demanding that American citizens show their papers. That's what happened in Stalin's Russia. That's what happened in Maduro’s Venezuela. That's not America. What we want is for ICE to be able to identify themselves, no more secret police. And then we want accountability for these crimes. We want there to be a real investigation, a state investigation. All we are demanding is that ICE behave legally, lawfully, and morally. And yes, I hope that we can come together, Republicans and Democrats, on that project in the next few weeks.

Bream: Well, Tom Homan talked about that as well this week. Again, saying he's enforced these laws over numerous administrations, over decades. He said, ‘agents, yes, will be held accountable.’ Because he wants them to be. The good agents never want a bad agent to get away with anything, because they need to have the transparency and the accountability for everyone. So he says that's happening. DOJ says they are investigating Alex Pretti’s death as well. Do you find comfort in that?

Murphy: No, no, the fix is in. Within hours of Alex Pretti’s murder, the people in charge of the Department of Homeland Security and the immigration policy in the White House were calling him a domestic terrorist. Were calling him an assassin. How can you believe that there's going to be an independent investigation? And why are they blocking a state investigation? Any time that there is this kind of abuse, a murder, an assault by a federal official, there has always been a state investigation. There's always been cooperation between the federal and state government. So that's part of what has to happen here. They want to do a federal investigation? They can. There has to be a state investigation as well.

Bream: It sounds like there are going to be some parallel tracks there. Meantime, we're going to talk about how we handle the situation with the shutdown with your colleagues and see if you can move forward on that. Senator, it's always good to see you.


On Anniversary of USAID Website Going Dark, House Foreign Affairs Vice Ranking Member Amo Introduces Bill to Stop Trump from Incinerating Taxpayer Dollars

Washington, DC – TODAY, House Foreign Affairs Vice Ranking Member Gabe Amo (D-RI) introduced the Strengthening Uniform Procedures to Prevent Loss, Incineration, and Expiration of Supplies (SUPPLIES) Act, legislation to block President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s reckless destruction of unused, taxpayer-funded foreign aid when contracts expire.

The SUPPLIES Act forces the State Department to put basic safeguards in place by requiring the State Department to establish guidance on handling unused supplies at the end of a contract to ensure that aid is not diverted, destroyed, or allowed to expire.

“Donald Trump and Marco Rubio aren’t cutting waste, they’re creating it and weakening America’s standing on the world stage,” said Vice Ranking Member Gabe Amo (D-RI) of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, “They’ve chosen to burn food, trash medicine, and dismantle America’s moral leadership instead of feeding hungry families and saving lives. Destroying aid Americans already paid for betrays taxpayers, undercuts our farmers and producers, and tells the world we no longer stand for anything. The SUPPLIES Act will ensure that American aid saves lives and is a reminder to the world of our goodwill.”

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

The bill is co-sponsored by Representatives Andre Carson (D-IN-07), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL-20), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30), Madeleine Dean (D-PA-04), Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03), Robert Garcia (D-CA-42), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH-02), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL-01), Julie Johnson (D-TX-32), Bill Keating (D-MA-9), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Stephen Lynch (D-MA-08), Seth Magaziner (D-RI-02), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Dina Titus (D-NV-01), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), and Marc Veasey (D-TX-33).

Background

In February 2025, after President Trump began to illegally dismantle USAID and shut down USAID’s website, the guidance on what to do with leftover foreign aid was also deleted.

One year later, the State Department still has not created guidance for how to protect leftover supplies, and his foreign aid freeze had already led to the destruction and waste of over 500 tons of emergency food and $10 million of contraceptives. The SUPPLIES Act would create guidance to ensure that foreign aid supplies and commodities left over at the end of a contract are not destroyed but used in other areas of high need.

In September 2025, Amo introduced the SUPPLIES Act as an amendment to the House Foreign Affairs Committee State Reauthorization Markup.

In May 2025, Amo called out Secretary Rubio in the House Foreign Affairs Committee for his failure to deliver foreign aid, and Rubio falsely claimed that no one had died because of Trump’s foreign aid cuts.

###


Republicans Reject Amo Push to Cut $75 Billion from ICE and to Restore Health Care Stripped by Trump’s Big, Ugly Law

Washington, DC – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI-01) pushed for a vote to redirect the $75 billion from Trump and Republicans’ Big, Ugly Law they earmarked for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to help undo their devastating health care cuts.

Amo offered the House version of Senator Bernie Sanders' amendment that would use the $75 billion in savings to reverse some Medicaid cuts, preventing 700,000 Americans from losing their health care.

“At a time when families are struggling to afford basic care, Republicans slashed over $1 trillion from our health system to shovel $75 billion into an ICE slush fund,” said Congressman Gabe Amo, a member of the House Committee on the Budget. “Republicans are choosing once again to write a blank check to ICE. They’re undermining real public safety, while failing to lower health care costs. I’m disappointed but not surprised that Republicans are fueling fear and chaos and don’t care about ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used to lower health care costs, strengthen communities, and keep people safe.”

Full text of the amendment can be found HERE.

The amendment is co-sponsored by Representatives Sara Jacobs (D-CA-51), Judy Chu (D-CA-28), John Larson (D-CT-01), Sarah Elfreth (D-MD-03), Nanette Barragán (D-CA-44), Diana DeGette (D-CO-01), Wesley Bell (D-MO-01), Valerie Foushee (D-NC-04), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), Johnny Olszewski (D-MD-02), Emily Randall (D-WA-06), Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX-07), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Maxine Dexter (D-OR-03), and Herb Conaway (D-NJ-03).

Background

Congressman Amo has consistently opposed Trump’s cuts to Americans’ health care. He introduced an amendment during the budget process to make clear Medicaid is critical to the health of the American people.

He has also worked to hold Trump and his cronies accountable for ICE’s violent invasion of our cities. He helped introduce articles of impeachment against Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

###


Barr Delivers Federal Dollars to Upgrade Harrodsburg Police Equipment

Harrodsburg, KY— U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (KY-06) secured $96,192 in federal funding to modernize equipment for the Harrodsburg Police Department as part of the Closing the Technology Gap initiative. Barr secured the funding through the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026. He voted for the appropriations package earlier this month and President Trump recently signed the funding bill into law.

The funding will provide the Harrodsburg Police Department with 20 Taser 7 devices and related equipment. The project is designed to enhance officer safety, improve de-escalation capabilities, and equip officers with modern, less-lethal tools to protect the community.

“Providing our law enforcement officers with modern, effective tools is essential to public safety,” said Congressman Barr. “I’ll always fight for our law enforcement so that they can defend our communities and keep us safe. I also want to thank President Trump for signing this funding bill into law and making strategic investments like this to support our police.”

Harrodsburg officials identified this project as a critical priority to close technology gaps and strengthen officer readiness. The new tasers will allow officers to respond more safely to dangerous situations, reducing the risk of serious injury for both law enforcement and the community.

“Thanks to Congressman Barr, our department will be able to equip officers with modern, life-saving technology,” said Harrodsburg Police Chief Scott Elder. “This funding will help us protect our community and ensure our officers have the tools they need to do their jobs safely and effectively.”

“We are extremely and profoundly fortunate to have a friend in government, Rep. Andy Barr, through whose support and assistance we received funding to help our local law enforcement provide a better and safer level of service to our community. Thank you, Rep. Andy Barr, for your continued leadership, dedication, and support,” said Mayor of Harrodsburg Bob Williams.

“This is exactly the kind of investment that makes our community safer,” said Mercer County Judge/Executive Sarah Steele. “Congressman Barr fought to secure this funding, so our police officers have modern equipment to keep themselves and the public safe, and we’re thankful for his continued support of law enforcement.”

“Strong public safety starts with cooperation at every level of government, and this announcement is welcome news. I recently joined Attorney General Russell Coleman to highlight state-funded protective vests for law enforcement across Kentucky. Building on that commitment to giving officers the tools they need to serve, I commend Rep. Barr for securing federal support for Harrodsburg Police Department, directly supporting the officers who serve and protect our community,” said State Senator Amanda Mays Bledsoe (R-KY-12).

“Without a doubt the funding Congressman Barr secured will go a long way toward providing our police department with the tools they need to protect and serve the people of Harrodsburg safely and effectively. I appreciate Congressman Barr’s commitment to Harrodsburg and our Commonwealth,” said State Representative Kim King (R-KY-55).


Barrett Introduces Constitutional Amendment to Establish Term Limits for Federal Judges

February 2, 2026

Amendment Is Next Addition to Government Reform Pillar of Barrett’s Blueprint for a Better America

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) today announced a new piece of government reform legislation to build on the first pillar of his Blueprint for a Better America — Restoring Trust in Government. The constitutional amendment would limit federal judges, including Supreme Court justices, to serving a 20-year term.

The Judicial Term Limits Amendment (H.J.Res 145) would also prevent judges who complete a 20-year term from getting reappointed to the same federal court. This would only apply to newly appointed federal judges, allowing the term limit to take effect gradually as current judges leave the bench, while preventing the president and Senate from immediately getting new judicial vacancies to fill.

“Our federal courts are responsible for upholding our most fundamental rights and liberties,” said Barrett. “Lifetime appointments were designed to protect judicial independence, but instead have too often emboldened judges to wield their enormous power long after they should have retired. When our Constitution was ratified, 20 years practically was a lifetime appointment. Along with the Keep the Nine Amendment that I co-sponsored, a reasonable term limit will ensure occasional turnover in powerful offices, preserve the independence our judiciary needs to apply the law without fear or favor, and protect the integrity of the courts for generations to come.”

The average age of federal judges has risen significantly since the nation’s founding. The average judge as of 2024 is 68 years old, compared to 49 years old in 1789.

The Judicial Term Limits Amendment builds on Barrett’s effort to preserve judicial independence and keep partisan politics from interfering with the judiciary by permanently setting the Supreme Court’s membership at nine justices.

About Barrett’s Blueprint for a Better America

Restoring Trust in Government is the first of five pillars of Barrett’s Blueprint for a Better America. The Congressman will continue to unveil additional proposals in the coming weeks to address all of the five key policy pillars of this agenda:

Restoring Trust in Government: Making Government Serve the People, Not Special Interests

Reviving the American Dream: Helping Families Afford Homes in Mid-Michigan

Making Health Care Affordable Again: Lowering Costs for Working Families

Recalibrating American Foreign Policy: Ending Endless Wars and Promoting Peace Through Strength

Reforming Campaign Finance: Putting Governing Before Campaigning

To learn more, click here or visit barrett.house.gov/reform.

Read the full bill text for the Judicial Term Limits Amendment here.

###


***MEDIA ADVISORY*** THURSDAY: Congressman Bean Hosts Health Summit in D.C. on Hospital Reimbursement

WASHINGTON—On Thursday, February 5th, U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) will launch the second installment of his Path to Consensus Series, continuing a new initiative to address the broader debate over America’s healthcare system. This ongoing series brings together lawmakers, policy experts, and industry leaders to examine the most challenging questions in healthcare and chart a path toward meaningful reform.

This installment will focus on hospital reimbursement, a critical issue shaping access to care, hospital sustainability, and patient outcomes nationwide. The event will feature two expert panels and a keynote address by Brittany Madni, Executive Vice President for the Economic Policy Innovation Center, exploring competing perspectives on how reimbursement policies impact costs, quality of care, and the long-term stability of the healthcare system.

Details for the series can be found immediately below:

WHAT: Panel Discussion: 340B: Making Charity Care Easier on Hospital Systems Wealthier?

WHO: Shayne Woods, VP at Alpine Group Partners (Moderator); Bharath Krishnamurthy, Director of Pharmaceutical Policy, American Hospital Association; Karyn Schwartz, Senior VP of Policy & Research Development, PhRMA

WHEN: THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1:05-1:55 pm EST

WHERE: Longworth House Office Building, Room 1100

WHAT: Panel Discussion: Location, Location, Location: A Conversation About Site Neutral Payments

WHO: Chris Jones, Director of Federal Government Relations at BIO (Moderator); Mary Mayhew, President and CEO, Florida Hospital Association; Dr. Asmita Mishra, MD, MBA, Medical Director of Payer Strategies, Moffitt Cancer Center; Michael Baker, Director of Health Care Policy, American Action Forum; Anna Bonelli, Director of Health Policy, Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget

WHEN: THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2:00-2:50 pm EST

WHERE: Longworth House Office Building, Room 1100

WHAT: Keynote Address: Roadmap to Reconciliation 2.0

WHO: Brittany Madni, Executive Vice President, Economic Policy Innovation Center

WHEN: THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2:55-3:25 pm EST

WHERE: Longworth House Office Building, Room 1100

Media RSVP: Elissa.Tew@mail.house.gov

###


Begich, Bonamici Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Water Power Innovation

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Feb. 2, 2026 – Congressman Nick Begich (R-AK) and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) introduced H.R. 7129, the Water Power Research and Development Reauthorization Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen America’s water power technologies and modernize federal research efforts critical to grid reliability, energy security, and innovation.

“Hydropower has long been a proven part of America’s baseload energy mix,” said Congressman Begich. “This legislation will support the development of next-generation hydropower and marine energy technologies that can provide long-duration storage and critical grid services. By continuing to invest in innovation and performance validation, we’re ensuring water power remains a dependable solution that works for Alaska and helps build a more reliable energy grid nationwide. I’m proud to work across the aisle to advance energy policies that make sense for Alaska and for the nation.”

Congresswoman Bonamici previously led the most recent reauthorization of these programs in 2020, which was signed into law with bipartisan support.

“Water power technologies have tremendous potential to provide cheaper, cleaner, and more resilient energy,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “This legislation will spur innovation to leverage the power of waves, tides, and currents to create opportunities for more Oregonians and Americans to benefit from this promising energy source.”

BACKGROUND:

The Water Power Research and Development Reauthorization Act would reauthorize and modernize the Department of Energy’s (DOE) water power research, development, demonstration, and commercialization programs. The legislation supports advancements in hydropower, pumped storage, and marine energy technologies, including wave, tidal, and current-based power systems.

Companion legislation, S. 3684, is led in the U.S. Senate by Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR).

###


Rep. Bera’s Office Returns Over $23 Million to Sacramento County Taxpayers

SACRAMENTO COUNTY, CA — Today, Representative Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06) announced that his office has recovered over $23 million in federal casework dollars for Sacramento County residents.

Since taking office in 2013, Congressman Bera’s dedicated team of caseworkers has helped more than 35,000 Sacramento County residents cut through red tape and resolve issues with federal agencies.

"I'm proud to announce that my office has helped recover more than $23 million in federal benefits owed to hardworking Sacramento County taxpayers," said Representative Bera. “Whether it’s expediting delayed tax refunds, addressing Medicare or Social Security issues for seniors, or helping veterans access their VA benefits, my office is here to help. If you or someone you know needs assistance dealing with a federal agency, please don’t hesitate to reach out.”

Constituents seeking assistance are encouraged to visit bera.house.gov/gethelp or call Rep. Bera’s Sacramento District Office at (916) 635-0505.

###


Walkinshaw, House Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Protect Federal Workers, Service Members, and Contractors During a Shutdown

Today, Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11) and Reps. Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Don Beyer (VA-08), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), and Eugene Vindman (VA-07) introduced legislation to pay all federal employees, as well as service members and federal contractors, during any shutdowns in FY2026.

With Republicans continuing to threaten shutdowns and use federal workers as political leverage, the True Shutdown Fairness Act would ensure that during any FY2026 shutdown, federal workers, service members, and contractors are paid and protected, and that the Trump administration cannot use a shutdown to carry out reductions in force.

“Federal workers and service members should never be used as leverage in Republicans’ shutdown standoffs, and the Trump administration should never be able to use a shutdown to inflict harm on our federal workforce, as we have seen,” said Rep. Walkinshaw. “This bill would provide critical protections by ensuring workers get paid during any FY2026 shutdown, contractors can keep paying their staff, and the Trump administration would be blocked from using a shutdown as a smokescreen to purge the federal workforce through reductions in force.”

“Our dedicated federal workers should never be pawns in a government shutdown fight,” said Rep. Raskin. “Our bill provides security to civil servants in MD-08 and across the country by protecting their paychecks and shielding them from any more of Trump’s reckless, unlawful firing sprees during a shutdown in FY26.”

“Federal workers and contractors – and their jobs – should never be used as leverage in political standoffs,” Rep. Norton said. “The True Shutdown Fairness Act would ensure that employees and contractors are paid during a shutdown in FY 2026 and would prohibit reductions in force, which can permanently damage the public's access to services they have a right to receive from the federal government. Federal workers and the American public shouldn’t bear the cost of Congress’s failure to do its job.”

“Federal workers and contractors are never responsible for government shutdowns, but they are always the ones who bear many of the worst consequences. The True Shutdown Fairness Act would ensure all federal workers, contractors, and servicemembers continue to receive their pay throughout a shutdown. These people devote their careers to serving the American people, their efforts are essential for keeping Americans safe and healthy, and they should be paid for their work regardless of political squabbles,” said Rep. Beyer.

“Since the last government shutdown, federal employees and contractors have continued to face uncertainty despite the essential work they perform every day,” said Rep. Kweisi Mfume. “These workers keep our government functioning, and they deserve stability and fairness when shutdowns occur. The True Shutdown Fairness Act is a common-sense solution that ensures our federal employees are fairly paid and protected for their work during a shutdown. I thank Representative Walkinshaw for his leadership and am proud to support this legislation.”

“Congress' inability to pass budgets shouldn't stop federal workers, contractors, and service members from getting a paycheck,” said Rep. Subramanyam. “This commonsense legislation ensures that if there is a shutdown in FY2026, personnel and contractors are paid and protected—and that no administration can use a shutdown as a pretext to carry out reductions in force. It’s a commonsense safeguard for the public servants and their families in our community.”

"Virginia is home to tens of thousands of federal workers, contractors, and service members who keep our country running. This week, many are once again being forced to wonder if they will get their next paycheck — not because they failed to do their jobs, but because of the chaos and cruelty coming from the White House,” said Rep. Vindman. “As their Representative, a 25-year Army officer, and as the husband of a former federal employee, I know the uncertainty and strain shutdowns place on families. My family has lived through it. Nobody should have to. I am proud to support this bill that would change just that."

“Federal workers simply want to do their jobs and serve their communities – yet too often they are treated as bargaining chips by anti-worker politicians,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “These are dedicated people with families to support – they shouldn’t have to worry about whether they’ll be able to pay the rent or buy groceries during a shutdown. The True Shutdown Fairness Act will ensure federal workers, contractors, and service members don’t miss a paycheck and protect federal workers from reductions-in-force during shutdowns. Further, the legislation is time-limited to avoid incentivizing more frequent and longer shutdowns that would stop funding for public services and cost our members’ jobs at the state and local level. Our members thank Reps. Walkinshaw, Raskin, Holmes Norton, Beyer, Subramanyam, Vindman, and Mfume for introducing this legislation to ensure federal workers have the security of knowing they’ll be paid regardless of the politics in Washington.”

The Services Employees International Union (SEIU) and American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) endorse the bill.

Read the full bill text here.


McClellan Leads Virginia House Democrats to Oppose Proposed ICE Facilities in Hanover and Stafford Counties

On Friday, January 30, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) led her Virginia House Democratic colleagues, Representatives Bobby Scott (VA-03), Don Beyer (VA-08), Eugene Vindman (VA-07), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) and James Walkinshaw (VA-11), in sending a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Todd Lyons. The letter expressed fierce opposition to the proposed purchase of a 550,000 square-foot warehouse in Hanover County to serve as an ICE processing and intake facility, as well as the potential construction of a 10,000-bed warehouse detention center in Stafford County, Virginia.

“Since early last year, we have witnessed an increasingly aggressive and militant ICE under your leadership,” wrote the Members. “Most recently in Minneapolis, we have seen federal immigration agents kill two American citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, and injure dozens more. These reckless raids on our communities have resulted in the wrongful detention of hundreds of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. … This disproportionate use of force is utterly unacceptable.”

ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have escalated their tactics in the last year, ranging from demands that individuals randomly show their IDs and verify their legal status when they are not suspected of any crime, to instigations of violence, to warrantless searches and entries into homes, businesses and schools. Combined with a refusal to cooperate with federal partners and allow for meaningful Congressional oversight, the activities of DHS have raised serious concerns for the safety of detainees and Virginians. Hanover County’s Board of Supervisors has asked DHS to reconsider its proposed facility. The Canadian-based company that owns the Hanover County warehouse has since backed out of the proposed sale.

“Across the nation, there have been reports of overcrowded detention facilities with poor ventilation, inadequate climate control, limited access to shower facilities and basic hygiene, and insufficient food and access to meals,” the Members continued. “We have seen this sort of gross negligence play out firsthand in the Commonwealth. In the summer of 2025, reports emerged of severe overcrowding, a lack of food and access to basic hygiene, and limited water supplies at ICE’s Washington Field Office in Chantilly, VA. ICE stonewalled attempts by our offices to gain access to the facility and conduct proper oversight, and it continues to prevent our offices from fully understanding what conditions were like during that period.”

Even after increased scrutiny into the presence of ICE agents in Virginia and beyond, culminating in articles of impeachment introduced against DHS Secretary Noem, questions remain as to the conditions of current ICE facilities and measures being taken to ensure the basic needs of detainees are being met. There is no guarantee that the proposed ICE facilities in Virginia would permit Members of Congress to hold DHS accountable for any lapses in quality of care and detention.

“Given this history of behavior, it is no surprise that we are alarmed by the prospect of siting two enormous ICE facilities in Virginia,” the Members concluded. “We do not want the Commonwealth to be home to large detention facilities rejected by our local communities, which make no one safer. Rather, these facilities undermine public safety, erode trust between local law enforcement and the public, and place a federal agency indifferent to constitutional liberties near our schools, hospitals, and residential areas. We refuse to allow the Commonwealth to be beholden to an agency that has repeatedly failed to demonstrate the transparency, restraint, and constitutional compliance the public and Congress are entitled to expect from law enforcement.”


Congressman Blake Moore Introduces Legislation to Reform Budget Process

WASHINGTON — Representatives Blake Moore (R-UT) and Jeff Hurd (R-CO) introduced legislation to reform the budget process and provide accountability to taxpayers.

The Comprehensive Congressional Budget Act reforms the annual budget and appropriations process by requiring Congress to vote on the entire Congressional budget each year, rather than only on the 12 appropriations bills that cover one quarter of all federal spending.

"The Constitution grants Congress the power of the purse to allocate taxpayer dollars in the interests of the American people. Yet Congress has slowly surrendered this role to mandatory or "autopilot" spending programs that account for almost 75% of the budget and are renewed without any Congressional oversight," Rep. Moore said. "This bill requires Congress to vote on the whole budget every year, rather than just one quarter, allowing greater accountability to the taxpayer for how their dollars are spent."

“Washington’s broken budget process is a big reason we keep piling up debt without ever having an honest debate about priorities," Rep Hurd said. "Congress budgets in pieces, hides the real costs, and then acts surprised by the results. This legislation forces Congress to do what the Constitution expects: look at the entire budget at once and take responsibility for every dollar we spend and every dollar we borrow. It’s a serious reform that strengthens Congress and restores accountability to the process.”

“Congress needs an effective regular order for budgeting. It’s important to update annual appropriations, but they are only one-quarter of spending, and for decades, an appropriations-only process has barely limped along. A bottom-up, holistic framework to weigh all spending and revenue priorities together would give Congress many more ways to solve problems. We are thrilled to support Representative Blake Moore’s Comprehensive Congressional Budget Act, a bill that would empower legislators to deliver much greater value for the American people,” said Kurt Couchman, Senior Fellow for Fiscal Policy at Americans for Prosperity.

Background:

Each year, Congress considers its discretionary budget through the annual appropriations process. In 1974, discretionary appropriations included 50% of all federal spending, but that share has shrunk to 26% as of 2025. Mandatory spending programs have ballooned on "autopilot" without Congressional input or reauthorization. Because Congress does not vote on most spending, Members have little opportunity to offer changes to programs and spending and therefore cannot exercise the power of the purse.

The Comprehensive Congressional Budget Act would reform the federal budgeting system by:

Allowing the House and Senate appropriations committees to continue managing discretionary spending;

Requiring each committee with direct spending or revenue jurisdiction to submit line items for each spending or revenue account along with any proposed changes to the House and Senate appropriations committees;

Requiring the House Budget Committee to compile the 12 appropriations bills and submissions from other committees and send the complete budget to the House floor; and

Requiring the House Budget Committee and Senate Budget Committee to report a budget baseline level if Congress fails to agree to a concurrent resolution on the budget by April 15th of each year.


REPS. BOST, MILLER, LAHOOD REQUEST ANSWERS FROM ILLINOIS ELECTION BOARD ON VOTER ROLL INTEGRITY

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) led a letter with Congressman Mike Bost (IL-12) and Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) to the Illinois State Board of Elections requesting answers regarding the accuracy of the state’s voter rolls and its compliance with federal election law.

.

As Illinois prepares to begin early voting on February 5, the letter raised serious concerns about the state’s compliance with the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) and the overall integrity of federal elections conducted in Illinois.

.

“For years, Illinois Democrats have refused to take even the most basic steps to secure our elections,” said Congresswoman Miller. “The state will not require voter ID, continues counting mail-in ballots long after Election Day, and has failed to implement a serious statewide program to clean up voter rolls. These failures undermine public confidence and raise legitimate questions about whether Illinois is complying with federal law.”

.

“Both parties can agree that the American people’s faith in our elections is at a dangerous low point. If we’re going to restore the public’s trust, it needs to happen long before Election Day,” said Congressman Bost. “That process begins with ensuring voter rolls are fully maintained and that every responsible effort is being made to remove ineligible voters. When certain jurisdictions report limited removal data – or even no data at all – to the Election Assistance Commission, it raises critical questions. We intend to get the answers our constituents rightly deserve.”

.

“For years, Illinois has failed to perform proper voter roll maintenance and implement commonsense election security practices such as requiring voter ID,” said Congressman LaHood. “The House Administration Committee’s request falls within its oversight role to ensure Illinois is following federal election laws. The State of Illinois has an obligation

to provide a transparent and complete response to this inquiry to ensure our elections are secure and strengthen Illinoisans faith in our state’s electoral process.”

.

Click here to read the letter.

.

Background:

This letter follows an oversight inquiry sent by the House Administration

Committee on January 22, 2026, which identified deficiencies in Illinois’ voter list maintenance practices, including counties reporting few or no voter removals in 2024 and widespread failures to provide required data to the Election Assistance Commission.

.

###


ICYMI: Boyle Announces $250,000 Federal Award to Expand Salvation Army Anti-Trafficking Program in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA, PA — Today, Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) joined leaders from The Salvation Army to announce a $250,000 federal Community Project Funding (CPF) award he secured to expand the Salvation Army’s New Day to Stop Human Trafficking Program.

The funding, included in the recently enacted FY26 Commerce, Justice, Science appropriations bill, will strengthen services for victims of human trafficking and other vulnerable individuals across Philadelphia, including work anchored at the New Day Drop-In Center in Kensington.

“The Salvation Army truly is one of the world-class organizations that serves our community and serves so many communities throughout the nation,” said Congressman Boyle. “So, I am very excited to help you continue to serve others, and specifically awarding $250,000 to help the Salvation Army combat the scourge of human trafficking.”

Participants at today’s event included Felicia Lyle, Area Commander for the Greater Philadelphia Salvation Army, and Kelly Devlin, the Salvation Army’s Director of Philadelphia Social Service Ministries.

“It is an honor to welcome Congressman Brendan Boyle to our divisional headquarters, and to thank him for the extraordinary leadership and partnership that made today's announcement possible,” said Felicia Lyle, Area Commander for the Greater Philadelphia Salvation Army. “Today, we celebrate a meaningful investment in people, in their safety, in their stability, and their right to live a life free from exploitation. Through his support of the Salvation Army's New Day to Stop Trafficking Program, Congressman Boyle is helping us to expand one of the only trafficking-specific programs in Philadelphia.”

New Day helps identify victims of trafficking, provide immediate assistance such as food and shelter, and connect individuals to longer-term services that support safety, stability, and recovery. The program also includes mobile case management, Police Assisted Diversion, and housing-focused initiatives designed to meet people where they are and tailor support to their individual needs.

“Last year, New Day served more than 1100 survivors here in Philadelphia,” said Kelly Devlin, the Salvation Army’s Director of Philadelphia Social Service Ministries. “We provided 296 survivors with trauma-informed case management, supported 65 police assisted diversions, and delivered critical basic needs through our drop-in center in Kensington, including 5,643 meals and 773 showers. Thank you again, Congressman Boyle, for standing with us. Your steadfast partnership is helping create a city where here healing is possible, dignity is restored, and every survivor is met with care and hope.”

Today’s announcement builds on Congressman Boyle’s prior efforts to deliver federal resources to the Salvation Army’s work in Philadelphia. In FY23, he secured $1 million in Community Project Funding for the Red Shield Family Residence Revitalization Project located adjacent to today’s event site, supporting renovations that improved safety, accessibility, and living conditions for families in need.

The new funding will allow New Day to expand capacity, enhance access to case management and supportive services, and reach more individuals at risk of exploitation throughout the city.


Buchanan, Durbin, Pingree Introduce Bicameral, Bipartisan Legislation to Help Veterans Manage Chronic Disease Through Nutrition

“I’ve Long Believed That Prevention Should Be at the Heart of Our Health Care System, Especially When It Comes to Those Who’ve Served Our Country.”

WASHINGTON — Congressman Vern Buchanan, Vice Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee and Chairman of the Health Subcommittee, Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) recently introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Produce Prescription for Veterans Act to expand access to nutritious food for veterans as part of their care.

The legislation would authorize the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to provide produce prescriptions to eligible veterans with diet-related chronic conditions. Under the bill, veterans could receive vouchers or debit cards to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at no cost or at a reduced cost.

“I’ve long believed that prevention should be at the heart of our health care system, especially when it comes to those who’ve served our country,” said Buchanan. “The Produce Prescription for Veterans Act puts the ‘food is medicine’ approach into action by helping veterans manage diet-related chronic conditions before they worsen. Making sure veterans have access to fresh, nutritious whole fruits and vegetables is a simple way to improve health outcomes and strengthen their quality of life.”

“As food costs climb and food deserts make grocery stores inaccessible, Americans—especially our veterans—are struggling to eat enough fruits and vegetables, contributing to high rates of chronic illness in the U.S.,” said Durbin. “With the Produce Prescription for Veterans Act, we can put fresh foods within reach by implementing a ‘produce prescription’ program so that our veterans have the means to put fruits and vegetables on their plates.”

“For their service and sacrifice, our veterans deserve the best health care possible—including access to fresh, healthy food,” said Pingree. “Study after study has shown that eating more fruits and vegetables can be enormously beneficial to people suffering from chronic health conditions. This commonsense, bipartisan legislation is an important step towards improving veterans’ health, reducing long-term health care costs, and ensuring that nutritious foods are available to any veteran who needs it.”

Currently, less than 13 percent of Americans consume the recommended daily amount of fruits and vegetables. Limited access to affordable produce contributes to high rates of diet-related chronic conditions, including heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes and certain cancers. Veterans experience disproportionately high rates of chronic disease compared to nonveterans, and nearly 25 percent of veterans report being food insecure, almost double the rate of the general population. The American Heart Association has found that adults who participate in produce prescription programs consume 30 percent more fruits and vegetables each day. Participants also experience measurable reductions in blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

The Produce Prescription for Veterans Act would establish clear authority for the VA to incorporate produce prescriptions into clinical care, helping veterans access nutritious food as part of a broader preventive health strategy.

The legislation is supported by the National Produce Prescription Collaborative and the International Fresh Produce Association.

“When a doctor prescribes eating more fruits and vegetables to manage chronic illness, veterans should have access to those nutritious foods just as they would have access to a medication,” said Sam Hoeffler, director of the National Produce Prescription Collaborative. “This legislation establishes produce prescriptions as a medical service within the Veterans Health Administration and opens the door for veterans to receive the full range of health care services they deserve.”

“Today’s legislation takes a pivotal step forward in integrating fruits and vegetables into health care at scale,” said Cathy Burns, CEO of the International Fresh Produce Association. “After years of successful pilots, we know produce prescriptions work. By incorporating this program into clinical care at the VA, the results could be transformational for the health of those who have served our nation.”

Buchanan has been a leading advocate in Congress for combating obesity and addressing the chronic disease epidemic. In February 2025, he introduced the bipartisan Veterans Nutrition and Wellness Act (H.R. 1289), which would establish a pilot program within the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide medically tailored meals and groceries to eligible veterans.

###


Bynum, Wyden Lead Charge to Protect Healthcare in Central Oregon

Today, Congresswoman Janelle Bynum (OR-05)and Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) sent a letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator, Dr. Mehmet Oz, demanding the resolution of an issue facing St. Charles Health System in Bend, OR. When St. Charles merged two hospital campuses in 2022, an administrative mistake by CMS cost the hospital over $6 million in additional expenses. CMS has taken no action to alleviate this severe financial burden, which threatens the hospital’s financial stability.

In the letter, the Members wrote:

“Rural hospitals are vital to the health and well-being of the communities they serve, providing care that can be difficult – or even impossible – to access anywhere else. … Rural residents deserve access to local health care through financially stable hospitals, not delays in care caused by unnecessarily complicated bureaucratic processes that threaten the services they depend on. …

“Continued delay not only imposes a severe financial burden on the health system but also threatens access to essential care for the rural Oregonians who rely on thesehospitals. CMS has the responsibility to solve this problem now. Not tomorrow. Not next month. Now.”

President and CEO of St. Charles Health System, Dr. Steve Gordon provided the following statement:

“We are grateful to Sen. Wyden and Rep. Bynum for their ongoing efforts to help us resolve this issue. Although it may seem like a minor administrative error, $6 million could greatly help us cover costs for many of the services we provide to support our rural communities and ensure that we are able to keep as much care local as possible.”

The full text of the letter is here and below:

Dear Administrator Oz,

We write today to request the swift resolution of a long-standing issue that has left St. Charles Health System (SCHS) in administrative limbo for nearly four years. Over that time, the health system and CMS, along with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), have had numerous conversations to address the matter, and yet, the problem remains unresolved.

In 2022, SCHS merged two hospital campuses in Central Oregon, St. Charles Bend and St. Charles Redmond, under one Medicare Provider Number, to address significant financial stress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. With this change, the combined St. Charles Bend hospital and Redmond hospital campus were granted Sole Community Hospital status, which provides higher Medicare reimbursement rates to certain hospitals that are the only short-term acute care provider in their community. The validity of this status change was not, nor ever has been, in question.

Although the merger was recognized as effective on February 15, 2022, CMS initially denied SCHS’ Sole Community Hospital application for missing documentation – a step that CMS and OHA typically complete after merger filings are processed. When SCHS submitted a second application on May 11, 2022, CMS approved SCH status retroactively, but only to that date, rather than the correct date of February 15, 2022. While that four-month period may seem insignificant, it left SCHS with a financial loss exceeding $6 million.

While the FY 2024 hospital inpatient prospective payment system (IPPS) rule, finalized on August 28, 2023, corrected this issue for future mergers; it unfortunately did not apply retroactively for cases such as SCHS’. Meanwhile, efforts to address the problem through the Provider Reimbursement Review Board have been ongoing for years now, with no conclusion in sight. Meanwhile, the financial impact on SCHS and the rural communities it serves continue.

This issue goes far beyond accounting or paperwork errors. Rural hospitals are vital to the health and well-being of the communities they serve, providing care that can be difficult – or even impossible – to access anywhere else. As President Trump recently emphasized, we must prioritize “ensuring that rural Americans get world-class health care in their own community” and yet, this problem persists. Rural residents deserve access to local health care through financially stable hospitals, not delays in care caused by unnecessarily complicated bureaucratic processes that threaten the services they depend on.

Accordingly, CMS must take immediate action to correct this retroactive SCH designation and provide the reimbursement SCHS is rightfully owed. At the very least, St. Charles deserves an update from the Provider Reimbursement Review Board with a clear timeline for when the issue will be resolved. Continued delay not only imposes a severe financial burden on the health system but also threatens access to essential care for the rural Oregonians who rely on these hospitals. CMS has the responsibility to solve this problem now. Not tomorrow. Not next month. Now.

A technicality should never come between a community and the health care it needs or saddle a health care provider with a $6 million loss. Nearly four years of delay is not just bureaucratic inefficiency – it’s a threat to the health and survival of the people these hospitals serve. CMS must act now to correct this bureaucratic blunder and ensure rural Oregonians can access the care they deserve and depend on – period.


Carter Secures $775,840 for Gatesville's Water Infrastructure Project Funding will support improvements to Hughes Elected Water Storage Tank

GATESVILLE, TX— Congressman John Carter announced $775,840 in Community Project Funding (CPF) to support upgrades to the Hughes Elevated Water Storage Tank, a critical infrastructure project for the Gatesville community.

The funding was secured through the federal appropriations process and signed into law. The project will help strengthen local water infrastructure, improve reliability, and support the long-term needs of Gatesville residents and businesses.

“Access to safe, reliable water is essential to any strong community,”said Congressman Carter. “This project reflects what can happen when local leaders identify real needs and we work together to deliver results.”

Carter has been a leading advocate for securing federal support for priority projects across Central Texas and worked closely with local partners to advance this project through the Community Project Funding process.

“We sincerely appreciate Congressman Carter’s efforts to ensure the City of Gatesville continues to provide abundant, clean drinking water to our city and surrounding communities,”said Bradford Hunt, City Manager.“As we look at our infrastructure needs and the attendant cost to maintain and improve our services, this appropriation for the rehabilitation of the Hughes Elevated Storage Tank helps offset future rate increases for our water customers.”


Higgins Announces Additional $326M for South Louisiana Hurricane Recovery Efforts

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) announced the approval of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding for over 40 projects in Louisiana’s 3rd District, totaling $326,131,765.68. 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, Zeta, Ida, and Francine.

Rep. Higgins said, “I appreciate Secretary Noem’s assistance in signing off on these reimbursements that will provide federal support to storm-ravaged areas of Louisiana. My office will continue to work with her to improve the disaster recovery process and deliver necessary resources.”

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 for parishes in Louisiana’s 3rd District:

Acadia Parish:

$2,869,533.03 for the Acadia Parish Police Jury for debris removal operations.

Calcasieu Parish:

$2,859.945.60 for McNeese State University to repair the Cowboy Stadium Press Box.

$4,775,786.68 for the Old Emmanuel Baptist Church in Lake Charles for permanent repairs.

$2,542,987.01 for Greater St. Mary Missionary Church for permanent repair work.

$3,437,165.70 for the Port of Lake Charles for permanent repairs to the City Docks loading equipment.

$7,831,241.54 to the State’s Office of Risk Management for permanent repairs to the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Department of Public Safety, Imperial Calcasieu Human Service Authority, and SOWELA facilities.

$1,490,410.62 for the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury for permanent work on Prien Lake Park.

$2,950,553.61 for the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury for permanent repairs to the parish government building.

$1,919,734.49 for the Calcasieu Parish Recreational District Number 1 for building replacement of the Rigmaiden Gymnasium in Westlake.

$1,582,781.61 for the City of Lake Charles for permanent repairs to the city’s parking structure.

$6,794,425.08 for the Diocese of Lake Charles for permanent repairs to Our Lady Queen of Heaven’s Family Life and Aquatic Center building.

Cameron Parish:

$1,042,699.19 for Cameron Parish to mitigate flooding and repair drainage structures in Drainage District 3.

$7,831,241.54 for Cameron Parish for building replacement at the South Cameron Memorial Hospital.

$7,241,015.59 for the Rockefeller Refuge to make permanent repairs to roads and bridges

Jeff Davis Parish:

$1,074,273.21 to the Diocese of Lake Charles for permanent repairs to the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Jennings.

Terrebonne Parish:

$6,882.941.70 for Terrebonne Parish Recreation District #7 for building replacement at the Little Caillou Gym.

$9,318,660 for the Terrebonne Levee and Conservation District for permanent work on the Bubba Dove Floodgate on the Houma Navigation Canal.

$1,944,582.30 for the Terrebonne Parish District Attorney’s Office for permanent repairs to the police dispatch center building.

$3,630,671.10 for the Terrebonne Parish District Attorney’s Office for permanent repairs to the old newspaper building.

$16,372,172.51 for the Terrebonne Parish School Board for permanent repairs to the Lacache Middle School buildings.

$9,205,679.25 for the Terrebonne Parish School Board for permanent repairs to facilities across the school district.

$2,049,889.12 for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux for repair and replacement of facilities at Vandebilt Catholic High School.

$1,676,710.11 for the Terrebonne Levee and Conservation District for debris removal operations.

$1,082,926.03 for the State’s Office of Risk Management for permanent repairs to Nicholls State University buildings.

$3,282,063.98 for the Terrebonne Levee and Conservation District for permanent repairs to the Reach J-2 Levee.

$1,069.255.50 for the Terrebonne Levee and Conservation District for permanent repairs to the Reach J-3 Levee.

$1,222,737.87 for the Terrebonne Levee and Conservation District for permanent repairs to the Reach L Levee.

$2,123,724.75 for Terrebonne Parish for permanent repairs to the South Plant Oxidation Pond Cell #2 wastewater facility.

Lafourche Parish:

$1,088,274.99 for the Lafourche Parish Hospital Service District #1 for permanent work on facilities.

$1,721,988.00 for the Lafourche Parish School Board for permanent repairs to the South Lafourche Parish High School ROTC building.

$75,714,165.00 for the State’s Office of Risk Management for permanent work on the CPRA, West Belle Pass Barrier Headland Restoration Project within the Terrebonne Basin barrier island system.

$1,634,885.33 for the Thibodaux Regional Health System for emergency protective measures.

$1,581,338.40 to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux for permanent repairs to St. Mary Nativity Church in Raceland.

St. Mary Parish:

$1,173,603.00 to Morgan City for permanent repairs to electrical substations.

$1,018,322.78 for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux for emergency protective measures at the Central Catholic School Campus.

Multi-Parish Electric Cooperatives:


Congressman Cohen Honors Black History Month, Celebrates Memphis’ Legacy and Future

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today released the following statement in recognition of Black History Month.

“Black History Month is a time to honor the courage, creativity, contributions, and resilience of Black Americans — and to recognize that Black history is American history. In Memphis, that legacy lives not only in the chapters we read in books, but in the leaders and neighbors who built a more just community and pushed our country closer to its ideals.

“This month, we remember Martin Luther King Jr. and his enduring call for equality and dignity. I also remember with gratitude three civil rights heroes I had the honor to serve alongside in Congress — John Lewis, who served as a spiritual advisor to me; John Conyers, who was my Judiciary mentor; and Elijah Cummings, whose example as a role model still inspires me.

“I also think of the Memphis civil rights and public-service giants I was privileged to know and serve with — Vasco Smith and his wife Maxine Smith, Walter Bailey Jr., Minerva Johnican, Russell Sugarmon, and Jesse Turner Sr. They helped shape Memphis’ conscience and its future, and they remind us of what leadership looks like when it’s rooted in service.

“Throughout my career, I’ve tried to honor that legacy not just with words, but with work — from my years in the Tennessee State Senate, where I served as Vice Chair for many years and floor seat mate to the legendary Senator Avon Williams, who I learned much from, to my time in Congress, where the House passed my resolution in 2008 making Congress’ first apology for slavery and racial segregation. I have continued pushing ever since to preserve the people and places that tell the story of the civil rights movement.

“Black History Month is a call to keep going. We must protect voting rights, confront discrimination, and keep pushing for equal justice and equal opportunity. I’m proud to represent Memphis and Tennessee’s Ninth District, and I will keep working to honor this legacy by preserving the history that shaped us and fighting for a future where every family can thrive."

###


Congressman Cohen Introduces the Deadly Force Independent Review Act

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the House Judiciary Committee, today introduced the Deadly Force Independent Review Act to require instances of deadly force are investigated in a way the public will find credible. Congressman Cohen introduced an earlier version of the measure in 2019.

Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

“This bill would require an independent review of every use of deadly force by a federal law enforcement officer or agent. The killing of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis has shocked us all. We must reckon with the cruelty and apparent impunity of the Department of Homeland Security’s agencies, particularly Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Border Patrol, and how the Administration is attempting — before our eyes, with lies — to cover up these killings. This bill is a necessary and urgent step to ensure accountability and reform.”

The Deadly Force Independent Review Act would require every law enforcement agency to establish a procedure to immediately, independently, and impartially review every use of deadly force, except those that are part of regular training. These investigations will need to conform to a uniform standard for such investigations developed by the Council of Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency (CIGIE). If the review is conducted by an entity other than the Department’s Inspector General, the respective Inspector General will review the investigation, findings, and report for thoroughness and compliance with the CIGIE guidelines. CIGIE will also compile statistics on these incidents and report regularly to Congress on their circumstances.


Congressman Costa Issues Statement on Ongoing Threat of Illegal Biological Laboratories

WASHINGTON — Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) released the following statement regarding the recent federal and local law enforcement action in Las Vegas involving a suspected biological laboratory and ongoing concerns about illegal lab operations:

“The announcement of the recent federal and local law enforcement raid in Las Vegas doesn’t come as a surprise. I’ve been ringing the alarm since 2023, when my constituents experienced a similar threat from an illegal Chinese lab operating in Reedley, California, storing dangerous pathogens and exposing serious gaps in federal oversight.

That is why I led bipartisan legislation through H.R. 5747, Preventing Illegal Laboratories and Protecting Public Health Act, which strengthens federal oversight of high-containment labs and provides authorities with the tools to identify and shut down illegal operations, and H.R. 3099, STOP Health Threats Act, which equips local first responders and law enforcement with training and resources to better recognize and respond to serious public health threats.

As this threat persists, I’m continuing to work closely with local, state, and federal partners to address these risks, and I urge Congress to pass my legislation to protect our communities and safeguard public health.”


Rep. Crane Hosts FEMA in Gila County as Updated Major Disaster Declaration Request Is Considered

On Thursday, Rep. Eli Crane (R-AZ) hosted Gregg Phillips, the Associate Administrator for FEMA’s Office of Response and Recovery, in Globe to meet with local officials regarding last September’s devastating flooding. Since the disaster, communities across Gila County have faced widespread damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure.

Last fall, the state of Arizona requested assistance under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. In the state’s initial assessment, officials only listed approximately $33 million in damages. This did not accurately reflect the true extent of the damage in these areas, and the request was denied in December. Immediately following the decision, Rep. Crane helped lead efforts to strengthen the appeal to more accurately reflect damages and detail the uniqueness of rural Arizona.

Local officials explained that time constraints contributed to the report falling short of providing the full scope of the devastation. With additional storms approaching, they had to choose between filling sandbags or concentrating solely on the submission. After the denial, officials conducted a comprehensive secondary assessment that placed total damages at more than $100 million, significantly strengthening Arizona’s case for reconsideration.

In Washington, D.C., Rep. Crane met with FEMA personnel to outline the urgent need for federal assistance and to extend an invitation for leadership to visit Gila County. With large swaths of Gila County owned by the federal government, the limited tax base places enormous strain on local recovery efforts. Additionally, years of federal land mismanagement have contributed to wildfire burn scars that continue to heighten flood risks.

After the meeting, FEMA personnel traveled to Globe to meet with local leaders, impacted residents, and those who prepared the data for the appeal. Rep. Crane is grateful for the administration’s attention to the situation and is also appreciative of Associate Administrator Phillips’ engagement on the ground.

While securing FEMA assistance remains the top priority, Rep. Crane is pursuing every available avenue to support the recovery. This includes coordinating with the Small Business Administration on its low-interest disaster loan programs and reviewing potential resources through the Department of Agriculture and the Federal Highway Administration. He also spoke with Russ Vought, Director of the Office of Management and Budget, about the importance of this appeal.

“I was honored to host Associate Administrator Phillips in Gila County to speak with local officials and those impacted by the devastating flooding. With last week’s visit, we were able to address questions about the original request and make the case for the appeal,” said Rep. Crane. “We believe the updated report more accurately represents the scale of the damage, and we were able to make a direct case for the uniqueness of rural Arizona. I want to thank President Trump, Secretary Noem, and Associate Administrator Phillips for their leadership and for making this visit possible.”


Crow Granted Emergency Relief in Lawsuit to Uphold Congressional Oversight of Federal Immigration Detention Facilities

WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06), along with 12 other plaintiffs, were granted emergency relief in his lawsuit to uphold congressional oversight at federal immigration detention facilities. A federal court ordered the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to temporarily restore Members’ right to unannounced congressional oversight of federal detention facilities.

Under federal law, Members of Congress have the right to conduct unannounced oversight of DHS facilities used for immigration detention, including facilities run by ICE and those operated by private companies. However in January, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem secretly imposed a policy requiring that Members of Congress provide seven days’ notice before being granted access to federal immigration detention facilities.

“Following the law is not optional,” said Congressman Crow. “2025 was the deadliest year at federal immigration facilities in decades. The Trump administration is using billions of taxpayer dollars to carry out a violent and lawless immigration agenda with virtually no transparency or accountability. Today’s ruling was another victory on behalf of oversight and work to hold this administration accountable.”

In July 2025, Congressman Crow sued the Trump Administration after it unlawfully denied him from a federal detention facility in Aurora.

Additional Members of Congress who were recently denied access to federal immigration detention facilities joined Crow as plaintiffs in the lawsuit: Representatives Joe Neguse (D-CO-02), Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08), Bennie Thompson (D-MS-02), Veronica Escobar (D-TX-16), Dan Goldman (D-NY-10), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY-13), Jimmy Gomez (D-CA-34), Norma Torres (D-CA-35), Raul Ruiz (D-CA-36), Robert Garcia (D-CA-42), Lou Correa (D-CA-46), and Kelly Morrison (MN-03).

Since his election to Congress, Crow has fought to promote transparency, oversight, and accountability in federal immigration detention centers. He introduced bipartisan legislation guaranteeing Members of Congress the right to conduct unannounced, in-person oversight visits of ICE detention facilities, including to check on any concerns related to public health and the humane treatment of detained individuals.

Crow regularly conducts oversight of Aurora’s immigration detention facility. Since 2019, he has visited the facility to conduct oversight ten times. Crow’s staff have also visited the facility more than 80 times to conduct oversight. Public reports of such visits, along with conditions at the facility, are published on Crow’s website.


Congressman Don Davis Calls for Secretary Kristi Noem to Resign

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) addressed the House to call for the resignation of Kristi Noem, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.

“We must restore public trust, and Homeland Security Secretary Noem has failed to take responsibility for her actions. At a time when our nation faces ongoing challenges and crises, strong leadership and accountability are essential,” said Congressman Don Davis. “In this pivotal moment, it has become clear that Secretary Noem’s resignation is not only necessary but crucial for rebuilding that trust.”

Congressman Davis delivered the following on the House floor:

“Mr. Speaker, Americans expect us to address the alarming behavior of the ICE and CBP agents who have operated beyond the acceptable boundaries of law enforcement.

While we must stand with our law enforcement community and enforce our immigration laws, it is crucial that federal agencies operate within the framework of public trust.

We must uphold the rights of Americans to exercise their First and Second Amendment freedoms, and we also expect our federal immigration officers to adhere to reasonable standards of conduct.

During Secretary Noem's tenure, trust has eroded. Secretary Noem, who has so far refused to take responsibility, must be held accountable.

Therefore, on the floor of the People's House, I call for the resignation of Secretary Kristi Noem, the public face of Homeland Security.”


Emmer Cosponsors Minnesota Voter Integrity Act of 2026 to Secure Minnesota's Elections

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) cosponsored Congressman Pete Stauber’s (MN-08) bill, the Minnesota Voter Integrity Act of 2026, to restore integrity to Minnesota’s elections. Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) and Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) are also cosponsors of the legislation.

This legislation would require the state of Minnesota to provide information on voting records, including same-day voter registration and election administration data, in order to continue to receive funding through the Help America Vote Act of 2002.

“For too long, voter fraud has gone unchecked in Minnesota,” said Emmer. “Minnesotans deserve to have confidence in the fairness and security of our elections. I am proud to join my friend, Pete Stauber, in his efforts to secure our elections in Minnesota.”

Read the bill text here.

Background

In September 2025, the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division filed a federal lawsuit against the state of Minnesota for failure to produce its statewide voter registration lists upon request. Minnesota has yet to provide the information demanded by the lawsuit.

In October 2024, Minnesota’s Republican delegation and House Administration Chairman Bryan Steil sent a letter demanding answers from Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon and Minnesota Department of Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson following reports that noncitizens in Minnesota had been receiving ballots. Additionally, the Minnesota Republican delegation sent two letters to Simon probing potential election errors and discrepancies in Minnesota during the 2024 election. Read the November 2024 letter here and the December 2024 letter here.

In January 2023, Emmer joined Steil, Stauber, Fischbach, and Finstad in a letter to Simon regarding claims that DACA recipients and other noncitizens are voting in Minnesota’s elections.

###