Rep. Mike Levin Secures Over $42 Million for Local 49th District Projects and Priorities

Washington, D.C.—Yesterday, Rep. Mike Levin secured over $42 million in new federal funding for new community projects and priorities throughout California’s 49th District. The funds were allocated as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 government funding package signed into law by President Trump to fund the federal government through September 30, 2026. This builds on more than $1 billion in federal funding Rep. Levin has secured for the district.

Click here to view a map of the projects and funding Rep. Levin has brought to the 49th District.

“Since entering Congress in 2019, I’ve made it my mission to deliver the federal funding necessary to address our district’s most pressing challenges and improve quality of life for all residents,” said Rep. Levin. “I’m proud to have secured over $42 million in the latest government funding package that will go towards railroad and highway improvements, tackling homelessness, safer streets, and more. These investments will make positive differences in communities all throughout our district, and residents will benefit tremendously.”

Rep. Levin secured a total of $42,593,000 in federal funds. The projects and priorities that will receive funding and directly benefit California’s 49th District include:

$26 million for the San Luis Rey River (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers): The funding will be used to provide increased flood protection in the City of Oceanside by increasing the integrity of the levee system and removing accumulated sediment in the channel.

$3 million for Mariposa Walkway and Coastal Rail Trail Improvement Project (San Clemente): The funding will be used to help repair the Mariposa walkway and trail, which are used for community access and are necessary during high tides for beach patrol and emergency response to reach the North Beach area but have been irreparably damaged by recent storms and landslides.

$2 million for Emerald Drive Complete Streets Project (Vista): The funding will reduce vehicle speeds on a high-traffic regional connector road by installing traffic calming measures, biking and walking facilities, and safe pedestrian crossings.

$2 million for Pier View Bridge Project (Oceanside): The funding will support the reconstruction of the historic Pier View Bridge as the structure continues to deteriorate and is non-compliant with modern earthquake design requirements, as well as support the expansion of the existing connected Lifeguard Operations facility, further enhancing public safety in our waterways.

$1.031 million for Law Enforcement Fleet Modernization (Orange County): This funding will be used to purchase specialty law enforcement vehicles, including undercover and emergency response vehicles that will support patrol investigations and undercover operations.

$1.031 million for Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project (San Diego Association of Governments): This project will complete 65% design for the Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project, which will enhance the biological, hydrological, and recreational values of the lagoon. This project will address increased sedimentation, invasive vegetation, declining coastal biodiversity, degrading water quality, water circulation restrictions, and vector concerns.

$1.031 million for San Dieguito Lagoon Shoreline Protection Project (Del Mar): This funding would be used for final engineering and construction for “living levees” - gently sloped, vegetated, earthen berms constructed with native plants and natural materials - to serve as protective barriers against flooding from the San Dieguito River and coastal erosion.

$1 million for Carlsbad Village Railroad Double Track Trenching Project (Carlsbad): The funding will complete the preliminary design and environmental review phase for a grade separated alignment of the railroad segment that passes through Carlsbad Village and the Barrio neighborhood of Carlsbad.

$1 million for North Coast Highway 101 Drainage Improvement Project (Encinitas): The funding will be used to fund construction of a 60-inch storm drain under North Coast Highway 101 to alleviate historic flooding in the Encinitas community of Leucadia.

$850,000 for Coast Highway Sidewalk Gap Closure (Dana Point): The funding will help install a missing sidewalk on the inland side of Coast Highway from Palisades Drive and Beach Road to approximately 1,100 linear feet north to allow for better pedestrian connectivity to Capistrano Beach.

$850,000 for Interstate 5 Improvement Project (Orange County Transportation Authority): The funding will help add an HOV lane on Interstate 5 in the northbound and southbound directions, implement ramp improvements, widen existing bridges, and replace two existing overhead crossings.

$850,000 for La Novia Avenue Bridge Replacement Project (San Juan Capistrano): The funding will be used to replace and widen a 60-year-old two-lane bridge with a four-lane bridge that includes new sidewalks, a bike lane, lighting, channel improvements, and traffic signal modifications at Calle Arroyo and San Juan Creek Road.

$850,000 for Vista Permanent Navigation Center Project (Vista): The funding will be used to acquire and construct a permanent facility to house Vista’s homelessness navigation center.

$600,000 for Positive Train Control Rail Safety Enhancement Project (North Coast Transit District): The funding will be used to make software improvements at grade crossing, enhance train operations, and optimize Positive Train Control performance testing.

$500,000 for Glencrest Safe Routes to School Project (Solana Beach): The funding will provide sidewalks and curbs along Glencrest Drive connecting to Lomas Santa Fe Drive.

Since entering Congress in 2019, Rep. Levin has secured more than $1 billion in federal funding for the 49th District. As a member of the powerful House Appropriations Committee, the only member from San Diego and Orange Counties, Rep. Levin fights for federal funds that impact millions of residents, including funding for clean energy, housing, public safety, veterans’ services, and more.

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Sánchez secures $11.7 million for community projects to improve quality of life

February 4, 2026

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.) announced today that she secured more than $11.7 million in federal funding for fiscal year 2026 through the government funding packages finalized by Congress this week and signed into law last night.

The congresswoman secured funding for all 15 community projects that she requested to directly benefit her constituents and enhance the overall quality of life in her district.

“I fought hard to secure funding for all 15 of my requested community projects because our communities deserve real results,” said Congresswoman Sánchez. “This funding will bring safer drinking water, better transportation and infrastructure, stronger public safety, and meaningful improvements to the everyday lives of working families across our district.”

Congresswoman Sánchez secured:

$850,000 for Foothill Transit’s Zero Emissions Bus Program. The funding will be used to help replace retirement-eligible compressed natural gas buses with zero-emission buses.

$250,000 for Water Treatment Plant-North in Downey. The funding will be used to address PFAS contamination concerns by constructing a new water treatment plant in North Downey.

$1.09 million for the Foothill Zone Consolidation Water Project in La Habra. The funding will be used to enhance the reliability and sustainability of water supply by consolidating and upgrading aging water systems in the Foothill Zone, which serves a significant portion of La Habra.

$250,000 for The Park and Gymnasium improvements in La Habra Heights. The Park and Gymnasium improvement project includes nine specific areas of improvement strategically selected to extend the useful life of La Habra's primary public recreation facility.

$1.5 million for Neff Park in La Mirada. The funding will be used for grading, placement of a natural drainage swale and landscaping improvements to address surface flooding that has occurred following even moderate rainstorms.

$1 million for the Montebello Fire Department’s Brush Fire Station. The proposed station will improve emergency response times, provide targeted protection to neighborhoods at high risk for wildfires, and increase the City’s overall capacity to respond to natural disasters and emergencies.

$1.4 million for the Montebello Police Department to upgrade its radio communications. This funding will help modernize and enhance the department’s public safety radio communications, ensuring that the department remains equipped with the latest technology to meet the growing demands of law enforcement operations.

$500,000 for the Holifield Park Parking Lot in Norwalk. The funding will be used to construct a new parking lot with 74 parking stalls south of Holifield Park, including fencing, concrete walkway, landscape and driveway approach improvements.

$850,000 for the Durfee Avenue Community Center in Pico Rivera. The funding will support the design and construction of the Durfee Avenue Community Center, which will rehabilitate a vacant and blighted former Veterans of Foreign Wars building into a vibrant community center.

$1.2 million for Suzanne Park in Walnut. The funding will be used to update Suzanne Park. The project will focus on four main areas of improvement, including accessibility, horse arena renovation, parking lot expansion, and softball field updates.

$250,000 for Whittier Broadband Connectivity Project. The funding will be used to lay down 3,881 linear feet of robust fiber optic network from Whittier City Hall to Uptown Whittier to address current deficiencies in broadband accessibility, reliability, and speed.

$850,000 for River Parcel Passive Park in Santa Fe Springs. The funding will be used to transform 2.75 acres of vacant, city-owned land into a vibrant, multi-use recreational hub that meets the growing need for green space in Southeast Los Angeles County.

$250,000 for Los Angeles County’s Department of Public Works for Advanced Traffic Controllers for Multimodal Experience at the Future L Line Norwalk and Lambert Stations Areas. The project will replace outdated traffic signals on major corridors and optimize the use of smart traffic signals to improve traffic signal communications to the county’s Traffic Management Center.

$1.03 million for Rio Hondo Community College’s Public Safety Scenario Training Unit. The funding will support a Public Safety Scenario Training Unit at Rio Hondo Community College. The equipment funded by this project would ensure that law enforcement officers are well-prepared to handle complex and high-pressure situations with essential skills in de-escalation, tactical response and decision making.

$850,000 for the Walnut Valley Water District‘s Emergency Operations Center and Cybersecurity Resilience Project. The funding will be used for equipment for the water district’s new Emergency Operations Center, which provides water service to nearly 100,000 residents and businesses.

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Lucas and Bessent agree: Expanding deposit insurance strengthens the banking system

Washington, DC – Today, the House Financial Services Committee held a hearing entitled, “The Annual Report of the Financial Stability Oversight Council” with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

Congressman Frank D. Lucas and Secretary Bessent discussed the urgent need for a targeted expansion of deposit insurance in order to put smaller institutions on a level playing field.

Congressman Lucas’s concern for this issue comes after the federal government protected depositors at big banks in 2023, but did not afford the same privilege to small banks in Oklahoma.

SELECTED REMARKS:

Lucas: “You’ve said that the current deposit insurance framework is a vulnerability in the banking system – that there is a competitive imbalance that favors large banks and that this increases the risk of bank runs and erodes depositor confidence. Can you talk more about how a targeted expansion of deposit insurance for non-interest bearing transaction accounts would strengthen financial stability in the banking system?”

Bessent: “I think it is very important for small banks to have a non-interest bearing account that can have a much higher level of insurance so that they are able to retain deposits during a stress period. This is one of the reasons we have seen assets leave small banks. It is one of the reasons that we have seen 50% of small banks disappear.”

Lucas: “Congress should look at giving FDIC the authority to raise the coverage level for non-interest bearing transaction accounts to an appropriate amount that is data driven and puts smaller institutions on a level playing field with larger banks. How would our banking system be safer with a narrow, targeted expansion?”

Bessent: “It would permit small and community banks to continue competing, it would get credit to our Main Street, and it would stem deposit flight during a period of stress, which is one of the biggest threats to financial stability.”

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Rep. Nancy Mace Demands Bill Gates Testify Under Oath On Relationship With Epstein

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 4, 2026) – Today, Congresswoman Nancy Mace sent a letter to House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer requesting a subpoena for Bill Gates to testify under oath about his relationship with convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein.

This comes after the Department of Justice released 3 million pages of Epstein's communications detailing disturbing allegations against Gates. The documents include July 2013 emails in which Epstein claimed Gates had extramarital affairs resulting in a sexually transmitted infection, and Gates sought to secretly give antibiotics to his then-wife Melinda without her knowledge.

Another email, drafted by Epstein as a fake resignation letter from Gates' former physician Boris Nikolic, described being asked to help Gates 'get drugs to deal with consequences of sex with Russian girls' and facilitate 'illicit trusts with married women.'

"If these allegations are false, Bill Gates should have no problem saying so under oath before Congress," said Congresswoman Mace. "The American people deserve answers about why one of the richest and most powerful people in the world was so cozy with a convicted child sex trafficker. We intend to get to the bottom of the entire Epstein saga and hold those accountable who think they’re above the law.”

Congresswoman Mace stands with Bill Gates' former wife, Melinda French Gates, who said in an NPR interview this week her ex-husband needs to answer for the behavior alleged in the Epstein documents. SEE INTERVIEW HERE.

"Whatever questions remain there of what, I can't even begin to know all of it, those questions are for those people and for even my ex-husband," French Gates said. "They need to answer to those things, not me."

"We stand with Melinda Gates," said Congresswoman Mace. "These allegations are sick. But she's right, her ex-husband needs to answer for his alleged behavior. Nobody gets a free pass. Not billionaires, not Hollywood, not anybody. Bill Gates needs to testify under oath, period."

SEE LETTER HERE:

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Two Of Rep. Nancy Mace's Bills To End Wasteful IT Spending And Modernize Cybersecurity Hiring Pass Committee Unanimously

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 4, 2026) – Today, Congresswoman Nancy Mace, Chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation, announced two of her bipartisan bills to modernize and strengthen federal technology and the cybersecurity workforce passed unanimously out of the House Oversight Committee.

The Modernizing Government Technology Reform Act (H.R. 2985) and the Cybersecurity Hiring Modernization Act (H.R. 5000) are crucial steps to bring the federal government's outdated technology and cybersecurity workforce into the 21st century.

"For too long, the federal government has relied on obsolete IT systems which waste taxpayer dollars and create security risks, while also missing out on talented cybersecurity professionals due to outdated hiring requirements," said Congresswoman Mace. "These bipartisan bills will bring much-needed accountability, identify outdated technology and update our technology systems, and modernize our hiring practices to recruit the best talent based on skills, not credentials."

The Modernizing Government Technology Reform Act reforms and reauthorizes the Technology Modernization Fund (TMF) and its governing board, the Technology Modernization Board (TMB). The bill includes several measures to improve the administration of the TMF and ensure program operations adhere to original congressional intent. The bill requires TMF awards to be reimbursed at the level needed to ensure the Fund is operational until it sunsets in December 2032 and creates a new requirement agencies reimburse administrative fees. The bill also requires each agency to create an inventory of its legacy IT systems, a new oversight tool which will allow Congress to evaluate agency and government-wide priority items for legacy IT modernization and to assess how well the TMF does in funding these projects. Finally, this bill reauthorizes the TMF and TMB and establishes a December 2032 sunset. Read more HERE.

The Cybersecurity Hiring Modernization Act prohibits the use of mandatory education requirements in hiring for federal cyber security-related positions, except when legally required to perform the job in the State or locality where it is located. The bill also narrows the ability of federal agencies to use a candidates’ education credentials alone to satisfy minimum qualifications for a federal cybersecurity jobs and requires OPM annually publish online changes to education qualification standards for federal cybersecurity jobs, and information about the education level of new hires to these jobs. Read moreHERE.

The legislation will advance to the House floor for consideration.

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Congressman Mackenzie Secures $47 Million Appropriation for Mack Defense Contract

Allentown, PA — Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (PA-07), representing the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos, has announced that $47 million in programmatic funding has been secured for the construction of the Mack Defense M917A3 Heavy Dump Trucks (HDTs). This announcement follows the signing of the 2026 Department of Defense Appropriations Act by President Trump. Congressman Mackenzie advocated on behalf of this programmatic request throughout the appropriations process, personally rallying support for the investment.

Produced locally in Allentown, PA, Mack Defense’s HDT line supports 50 high-skilled local jobs. Mack Defense has manufactured over 500 of the M917A3 HDTS, helping to provide robust, modern logistical support for the U.S. Military. This latest investment will enable the Allentown facility to meet the minimum sustainment rate for continued operations, ensuring this vital line and its experienced employees are able to continue their critical work.

“Locally manufactured heavy dump trucks are essential to meeting the U.S. Military’s 21st century logistical needs,” said Congressman Mackenzie. “We’re proud to have secured this critical investment, which will continue to support our national defense, domestic supply lines, and local manufacturing jobs. This appropriation will ensure that our highly skilled technicians in the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos can continue providing superior equipment to our armed forces.”

“Congressman Mackenzie’s efforts throughout the 2026 defense budget appropriations process were instrumental in ensuring the M917A3 HDTs will continue to be built and serve all branches of the U.S. Army’s need for a modern, commercial-based dump truck,” said Mack Defense president David Hartzell.

“The UAW has a long history of building the highest quality Mack vehicles for the U.S. armed forces,” said Dave Durgin, president of the UAW Bus, Engine and Truck Council and shop chair of the UAW Local 677 Office and Engineering Units. “Congressman Mackenzie’s strong advocacy for Mack on government funding and tariff issues has helped retain jobs for our local workforce and build on this legacy.”

“As someone who has spent 27 years building trucks at Mack and previously served in the United States Navy, I know firsthand how important this work is, not just for our national defense, but for the families and communities that depend on these jobs. The continued funding for the M917A3 production helps ensure that the skill, pride, and dedication of our union workforce remain part of America’s defense strength. I appreciate Congressman Mackenzie’s support for protecting good union jobs here in the Lehigh Valley and for recognizing the value of the men and women who build these vehicles," said UAW Local 677 President, Mike Shupp

Learn more about the M917AC HDT HERE.

Photos from the Congressman’s visit to Mack Defense’s Allentown facility in 2025 are available HERE.

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El Presidente Trump promulga la Ley de Seguridad Nacional, Departamento de Estado y Programas Relacionados para el año fiscal 2026 presentada por Díaz-Balart

February 4, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ayer el legislador Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), vicepresidente de la Comisión de Asignaciones de la Cámara de Representantes y presidente de la Subcomisión sobre Seguridad Nacional, Departamento de Estado, y Programas Relacionados (NSRP, por sus siglas en inglés), celebró la aprobación final de la legislación de asignaciones en materia de seguridad nacional, del Departamento de Estado y programas relacionados para el Año Fiscal (FY) 2026, la cual fue incluida como parte de la Enmienda del Senado a la H.R. 7148, la Ley de Asignaciones Consolidadas de 2026, y promulgada por el Presidente Donald Trump.

La legislación NSRP logra una reducción histórica del gasto del 16%.

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Vea aquí las palabras del legislador Díaz-Balart en el pleno de la Cámara

"Una vez más, el Presidente Trump y los republicanos cumplen con el pueblo estadounidense al evitar otro cierre destructivo del gobierno y gobernar con responsabilidad. La aprobación de estos cinco proyectos de financiamiento reafirma nuestro compromiso de combatir el despilfarro, el fraude y el abuso, fortalecer la rendición de cuentas y avanzar una agenda de América Primero.

Como presidente de la subcomisión encargada de financiar las prioridades de política exterior y seguridad nacional de Estados Unidos, me enorgullece que la legislación NSRP de financiamiento anual completo reoriente nuestra política exterior de manera histórica, al tiempo que restaura la disciplina fiscal al lograr una reduccion histórica del gasto.

Con estas leyes, estamos haciendo más por nuestro país y por el pueblo estadounidense, gastando menos. Esto ha sido posible gracias al liderazgo firme y constante del presidente del Comité de Asignaciones de la Cámara, Tom Cole, y de nuestros colegas del Comité, quienes trabajaron incansablemente para llevar estos proyectos hasta su aprobación final y a la firma del Presidente”.

PROYECTO DE LEY DE ASIGNACIONES PARA EL AÑO FISCAL 2026 PARA LA SEGURIDAD NACIONAL, DEPARTAMENTO DE ESTADO Y PROGRAMAS RELACIONADOS

El Proyecto de Ley de Asignaciones de Seguridad Nacional, Departamento de Estado y Programas Relacionados proporciona una asignación discrecional total de $50.014 mil millones, que es $9.3 mil millones (16%) por debajo del nivel promulgado para el año fiscal 2025 del proyecto de ley de Asignaciones NSRP aprobado por la Cámara de Representantes y cumple con la agenda América Primero.

Dentro de los recortes totales, el proyecto de ley de Asignaciones NSRP mantiene un financiamiento sólido para nuestros aliados como Israel, Jordania, Egipto y Taiwán y contrarresta a adversarios como la República Popular China Comunista, Irán, Venezuela, Cuba y los cárteles de la droga, incluidos los designados como Organizaciones Terroristas Extranjeras. Esta legislación elimina programas woke de la era Biden, influenciadas por la ideología progresista y apoya la visión del presidente Trump de reorientar y reajustar la política exterior para que Estados Unidos sea un país más seguro, más fuerte y más próspero.

Promueve la Política Exterior de América Primero al:

Priorizar nuevamente la financiación en apoyo de la seguridad nacional de Estados Unidos.

Crear el Fondo de Oportunidades "Estados Unidos Primero" para garantizar que el Secretario de Estado tenga la flexibilidad necesaria para responder rápidamente a oportunidades imprevistas con el fin de impulsar la agenda de política exterior "Estados Unidos Primero".

Apoyar la política exterior "Estados Unidos Primero" del presidente Trump eliminando el gasto innecesario en programas de diversidad, equidad e inclusión o ideologías progresistas, mandatos sobre el cambio climático e ideologías divisivas de género.

Priorizar la financiación y las políticas para combatir el flujo de fentanilo y otras drogas ilícitas hacia Estados Unidos para ayudar a salvar vidas estadounidenses.

Dar prioridad a las empresas estadounidenses respaldando la diplomacia para resolver favorablemente las disputas comerciales en el extranjero y promover los intereses comerciales estadounidenses en el exterior.

Reenfocar la atención en funciones diplomáticas cruciales, como la tramitación de solicitudes de pasaporte y la garantía de la seguridad de nuestras embajadas.

Protege la vida, apoya los valores estadounidenses y mejora nuestra posición en el mundo al:

Proteger las disposiciones provida de larga data y mejorar la supervisión y la transparencia en la implementación de los programas para garantizar que los fondos de los contribuyentes estadounidenses no financien abortos.

Aumentar el apoyo a los programas de libertad religiosa y exigir protecciones para la libertad religiosa de sus organizaciones.

Exigir responsabilidades a los gobiernos extranjeros y a los actores que persiguen a personas por motivos de fe, incluyendo la restricción de la ayuda a Nigeria hasta que se tomen medidas concretas para proteger a las comunidades cristianas que sufren violencia debido a sus creencias.

Combatir la trata de personas prohibiendo la financiación a países y organizaciones que se benefician de la trata de médicos cubanos y ordenando al Secretario de Estado que revoque las visas de los funcionarios involucrados en esa práctica.

Promover la libertad de expresión y prohibir la censura vetando los programas que violen los derechos de libertad de expresión de los ciudadanos estadounidenses.

Refuerza la seguridad nacional y las protecciones fronterizas de Estados Unidos al:

Brindar apoyo inquebrantable a Israel, incluyendo no menos de 3.300 millones de dólares en fondos del Programa de Financiamiento Militar Extranjero.

Mantener las alianzas de larga data con nuestros principales aliados en materia de seguridad en Oriente Medio: Israel, Egipto y Jordania.

Incluir 300 millones de dólares para el Programa de Financiamiento Militar Extranjero para Taiwán, con el fin de fortalecer la disuasión en el Estrecho de Taiwán, y hasta 2.000 millones de dólares en préstamos y garantías.

Financiar completamente el Fondo para Contrarrestar la Influencia de la República Popular China con 400 millones de dólares.

Proporcionar 1.800 millones de dólares para los intereses de seguridad nacional de Estados Unidos en el Indo-Pacífico y contrarrestar la influencia perniciosa de la República Popular China.

Negar al Partido Comunista Chino el acceso a recursos respaldados por Estados Unidos:

Exigir la oposición a los préstamos de los bancos multilaterales de desarrollo a China.

Exigir la oposición al aumento de la participación accionaria de China en los bancos multilaterales de desarrollo.

Prohibir el uso de fondos para el pago de préstamos a China.

Fomentar la cooperación entre el Departamento de Estado y el Departamento de Defensa para contrarrestar los programas de captación de talento extranjero que representan una amenaza para la seguridad nacional.

Prohibir la financiación de programas que faciliten y fomenten la migración hacia la frontera de Estados Unidos.

Salvaguarda el dinero de los contribuyentes estadounidenses y preserva las funciones esenciales:

Priorizar la disciplina fiscal con recortes de más de 9 mil millones de dólares.

Fortalecer los requisitos de supervisión y transparencia para garantizar que los fondos de los contribuyentes estadounidenses no se utilicen en organizaciones ineficaces o fraudulentas.

Apoyar los esfuerzos para reducir la duplicación, eliminar la burocracia y optimizar la política exterior bajo la dirección del Secretario de Estado para lograr un Departamento ágil y eficaz.

Eliminar la financiación de las órdenes ejecutivas de la era Biden sobre clima, género, diversidad, equidad e inclusión, y programas superfluos o irrelevantes que contravienen una agenda de política exterior de "Estados Unidos Primero".

Incluir una nueva directiva para el Secretario de Estado a fin de establecer una estrategia responsable para la transición de los programas para el Plan Presidencial de Emergencia para Alivio del SIDA (PEPFAR, por sus siglas en inglés) reduciendo su dependencia de la asistencia de Estados Unidos.

Consolidar y reducir el número de cuentas para facilitar la asignación eficiente y estratégica de fondos para programas que apoyen los intereses de seguridad nacional de Estados Unidos.

Apoyando a nuestro amigo y aliado Israel al:

Brindar apoyo inquebrantable a Israel financiando completamente la asistencia de seguridad con 3.300 millones de dólares, de conformidad con el Memorando de Entendimiento entre Estados Unidos e Israel.

Prohibir la financiación estadounidense para la Agencia de las Naciones Unidas para los Refugiados de Palestina (UNRWA, por sus siglas en inglés).

Prohibir la financiación para la Comisión Internacional de Investigación de las Naciones Unidas sobre el Territorio Palestino Ocupado, incluyendo Jerusalén Este e Israel.

Prohibir que se utilice cualquier financiación para trasladar la Embajada de Estados Unidos en el Estado de Israel a una ubicación distinta de Jerusalén.

Incluir disposiciones para garantizar el pleno cumplimiento de la Ley Taylor Force.

Prohibir que uso de financiación para revocar la designación del Cuerpo de la Guardia Revolucionaria Islámica como Organización Terrorista Extranjera.

Ampliar el acceso de Israel a artículos de defensa del Depósito de Reservas de Guerra y a garantías de préstamos para Israel.

Promueve la libertad y la democracia mientras protege los dólares de los contribuyentes estadounidenses al:

Exigir que la asistencia exterior se destine a países del Hemisferio Occidental que actúen como aliados y ejecuten políticas exteriores e internas coherentes con los valores y los intereses de seguridad de Estados Unidos, incluyendo Argentina, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panamá, Paraguay y la República Dominicana.

Promover la libertad en el Hemisferio Occidental:

25 millones de dólares para programas de democracia en Cuba;

50 millones de dólares para programas de democracia en Venezuela;

15 millones de dólares para programas de democracia y libertad religiosa en Nicaragua.

30 millones de dólares para las operaciones de la Oficina de Radiodifusión para Cuba (Radio y TV Martí).

Prohibir el uso de fondos para impedir la eliminación de entidades de la Lista Restringida de Cuba.

Incluir limitaciones a la financiación para países y organizaciones que se benefician del tráfico continuo de médicos cubanos y ordenar al Secretario de Estado la revocación de las visas de funcionarios involucrados en la trata de médicos cubanos.

Prohibir la asistencia a personas o entidades que apoyen, financien o faciliten las operaciones o actividades comerciales del Ministerio de las Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias o del Ministerio del Interior de Cuba o sus filiales.

Imponer condiciones estrictas a la financiación y exigir un informe previo a la asignación de fondos para Colombia, debido a la falta de alineación del gobierno de Petro con los intereses de Estados Unidos y al empeoramiento de las condiciones de seguridad, incluido el asesinato de un líder de la oposición política.

Exigir un informe al gobierno sobre las acciones en Haití y fomentar la incorporación de organizaciones locales en su enfoque para abordar la compleja crisis.

Lea un resumen de la legislación en inglés aquí.

Lea la legislación en inglés aquí.

Para acceder al video, haga clic aquí.

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President Trump Signs Chairman Díaz-Balart’s FY26 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Bill into Law

February 4, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Vice Chair of the House Committee on Appropriations and Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP), celebrated the final passage of his Fiscal Year 2026 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Act, which was passed as part of the Senate Amendment to H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 and signed into law by President Donald Trump.

The NSRP legislation delivers a historic16% spending reduction.

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Watch Rep. Díaz-Balart’s House Floor remarks here.

“Once again, President Trump and Republicans deliver for the American people by avoiding another destructive shutdown and governing responsibly. The passage of these five funding bills fulfills our commitment to cut waste, fraud, and abuse, strengthen accountability, and advance an America First agenda.

As Chairman of the subcommittee responsible for funding America’s foreign policy and national security priorities, I am proud that my NSRP full-year funding legislation refocuses our nation’s foreign policy in historic ways while also restoring fiscal sanity, delivering a historic spending reduction.

With these bills, we are doing more for our country and the American people while spending less. This is possible thanks to the brilliant and persistent leadership of Chairman Tom Cole and our House Appropriations colleagues who worked day and night to get these bills across the finish line and to the President’s desk.”

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

FISCAL YEAR 2026 NATIONAL SECURITY, DEPARTMENT OF STATE, AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS BILL

The National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP) Appropriations Act provides a total discretionary allocation of $50.014 billion, a nearly $9.3 billion cut (16%) below the Fiscal Year 2025 enacted level. The unprecedented reduction of spending in this measure codifies the FY25 rescissions and cuts even more, while reflecting the priorities of the America First agenda.

Even with the cuts, the NSRP bill maintains robust funding for our allies like Israel, Jordan, Egypt, and Taiwan, and counters adversaries like the Communist People’s Republic of China (PRC), Iran, Cuba, and drug cartels – including those designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations. The bill removes woke Biden-era poison pills and supports President Trump’s vision to refocus and realign foreign policy to make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous.

Champions America First Foreign Policy by:

Reprioritizing funding in support of United States national security.

Creating the America First Opportunity Fund to ensure the Secretary of State has the flexibility to quickly respond to unforeseen opportunities in an effort to advance the America First foreign policy agenda.

Supporting President Trump’s America First foreign policy by eliminating wasteful spending on DEI or woke programming, climate change mandates, and divisive gender ideologies.

Prioritizing funding and policies to combat the flow of fentanyl and other illicit drugs into the United States to help save American lives.

Putting American businesses first by prioritizing diplomatic engagement to favorably resolve commercial disputes abroad and to promote American business interests overseas.

Refocusing attention on critical diplomatic functions, such as addressing passport applications and ensuring the safety and security of our embassies.

Protects life, supports American values, and enhances our standing in the world by:

Protecting long-standing pro-life provisions as well as enhancing oversight and transparency over program implementation to ensure American taxpayer dollars will not fund abortions.

Increasing support for religious freedom programs and demanding religious freedom protections for faith-based organizations.

Holding foreign governments and bad actors accountable for their persecution of people of faith, including restricting assistance to Nigeria until measurable actions are taken to protect Christian communities suffering from violence due to their beliefs.

Confronting human trafficking by prohibiting funding for countries and organizations that continue benefiting from the human trafficking of Cuban medical doctors, while directing the Secretary of State to pull visas for officials involved in Cuban doctors’ trafficking.

Advancing free speech and prohibiting censorship by banning programs that violate the free speech rights of American citizens.

Bolsters U.S. national security and border protections by:

Providing unwavering support for Israel by including no less than $3.3 billion in Foreign Military Financing Program funds.

Upholding longstanding partnerships with our key security allies in the Middle East, Israel, Egypt, and Jordan.

Including $300 million for the Foreign Military Financing Program for Taiwan to strengthen deterrence across the Taiwan Strait, and up to $2 billion in loans and loan guarantees for such purpose.

Fully funding the Countering PRC Influence Fund at $400 million.

Providing $1.8 billion for United States national security interests in the Indo-Pacific and to counter the PRC’s malign influence.

Denying the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) access to U.S.-backed resources:

Requires opposition to multilateral development bank lending for China.

Requires opposition to increased shareholding for China within the multilateral development banks.

Prohibits funds from being used to repay loans to China.

Furthers cooperation between the Department of State and War in countering foreign talent programs posing a threat to national security.

Prohibiting funding for programs that facilitate and encourage migration toward the United States border.

Safeguards American taxpayer dollars and preserves core functions by:

Prioritizing fiscal sanity with over $9 billion in cuts.

Enhancing oversight and transparency requirements to ensure American taxpayer funds are not used by ineffective or fraudulent organizations.

Supporting efforts to reduce duplication, eliminate bureaucracy and silos, and streamline foreign policy under the direction of the Secretary of State to support a nimble and effective Department.

Eliminating funding for Biden-era executive orders on climate, gender, DEI, and extraneous or irrelevant programs that run contrary to an America First foreign policy agenda.

Including a new directive to the Secretary of State to establish a responsible strategy for transitioning PEPFAR programs off United States assistance.

Consolidating and reducing the number of accounts to facilitate efficient, strategic allocation of funds for programs that support United States national security interests.

Standing with our friend and ally, Israel by:

Providing unwavering support for Israel by fully funding security assistance for Israel at $3.3 billion, consistent with the United States-Israel Memorandum of Understanding.

Prohibiting U.S. funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).

Prohibiting funding for the United Nations International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem and Israel.

Prohibiting any funding from being used to move the U.S. Embassy to the State of Israel to a location other than Jerusalem.

Continuing conditions and restrictions to ensure taxpayer funds are not getting into the hands of terrorists or paying prisoners for acts of terrorism (pay-to-slay).

Including language to ensure full compliance with the Taylor Force Act.

Prohibiting funding from being used to revoke the designation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a Foreign Terrorist Organization.

Extending Israel’s access to defense articles in the War Reserves Stockpile and loan guarantees for Israel.

Promotes freedom and democracy while safeguarding U.S. taxpayer dollars by:

Requiring that foreign assistance be directed to countries in the Western Hemisphere that act as allies and execute foreign and domestic policies which are consistent with United States values and security interests, including Argentina, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, Paraguay, and the Dominican Republic.

Promoting freedom in the Western Hemisphere:

$25 million for democracy programs for Cuba;

$50 million for democracy programs for Venezuela;

$15 million for democracy and religious freedom programs for Nicaragua.

$30 million for the operations of the Office of Cuba Broadcasting (Radio and TV Marti).

Prohibiting funds to prevent the removal of entities from the Cuba Restricted List.

Including limitations on funding for countries and organizations that benefit from the continued trafficking of Cuban medical doctors, and directing the Secretary of State to revoke visas for officials involved in the human trafficking of Cuban doctors.

Prohibiting assistance to individuals or entities that support, finance, or facilitate the operations or commercial activities of the Cuban Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces or Ministry of the Interior, or their affiliates.

Placing strict conditions on funding and requiring a pre-obligation report for Colombia, due to the Petro Administration’s failure to align with United States interests and worsening security conditions, including the assassination of a political opposition leader.

Requiring a report from the Administration about efforts in Haiti and encouraging the incorporation of locally led organizations in their approach to the multi-layered crisis.

A summary of the bill is available here.

Bill text is available here.

Rep. Díaz-Balart's House floor remarks can be watched here.

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MATSUI, MARKEY, DAVIDS AND COLLEAGUES DEMAND TRUMP ADMINISTRATION SCRAP PLAN TO WEAKEN VEHICLE FUEL EFFICIENCY

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA), Senator Ed Markey (D-MA), and Congresswoman Sharice Davids (D-KS) led 78 total lawmakers in calling on the Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy to withdraw the proposed rollback of Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) Standards, as this attack on the standards would increase costs for hardworking Americans, reduce vehicle efficiency, and increase our reliance on foreign oil imports.

“Historically, strong CAFE standards have driven American innovation, from hybridization and advanced powertrains to aerodynamic breakthroughs,” wrote the lawmakers. “We currently have widely available and well-proven tools to keep improving fuel economy, which save Americans money at the pump and deliver more affordable, efficient, cleaner vehicles.”

Since 1975, fuel efficiency standards have saved American drivers thousands of dollars in fuel costs. The existing CAFE standards, finalized under the Biden Administration, were expected to save Americans more than $84 billion in fuel costs and other health benefits.

The Trump Administration’s proposed rollback of the CAFE standards would reduce the required fleetwide average fuel economy from 50.4 miles per gallon for Model Year (MY) 2031 vehicles to just 34.5 miles per gallon. This would effectively eliminate any requirement for automakers to improve fuel economy and is a clear violation of the requirement in law to set the maximum feasible standards, as automakers are already exceeding the proposed MY 2031 standards with a fleetwide average of 35.4 miles per gallon in MY 2024.

“We strongly urge the Department of Transportation to withdraw this misguided CAFE proposal and maintain the existing fuel economy standards,” the lawmakers concluded. “Weakening the fuel economy standards and forcing Americans to purchase more expensive, gas-guzzling vehicles would exacerbate the cost-of-living crisis and serve as yet another betrayal of President Trump’s promise to lower energy costs for the American people.”

In addition to the rollback of fuel economy requirements, the Trump Administration is also proposing to eliminate fuel-efficiency credits that help lower the cost of manufacturing electric vehicles—yet another thinly veiled attack on EVs.

This follows Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill, which eliminated penalties for automakers that fail to comply with fuel economy standards and instead sell vehicles that will cost drivers more at the pump. This means there’s effectively no requirement to follow the standards at all—leaving drivers with bigger bills and the United States more reliant on oil imports.

Full text of the letter is available HERE.

Congresswoman Matsui has long advocated for cleaner, more efficient, and more affordable vehicles. In September 2025, she led over 100 lawmakers in opposing the rollback of EPA vehicle pollution standards. She leads bipartisan efforts to strengthen the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) Program, which provides states, local governments, and schools with funding to replace old diesel vehicles and school buses with cleaner alternatives. She has also repeatedly led efforts to preserve California’s authority under the Clean Air Act to regulate in-state vehicle pollution.

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Congressman Max Miller Secures $18 Million in FY26 Community Project Funding

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Max Miller (OH-07) officially secured over $18 million in FY26 Community Project Funding (CPF) through the 11 appropriations bills now signed into law. This money is returning home to offset costs for essential critical infrastructure projects that meet real needs.

FY26 CPFs benefiting our district include:

• City of Brecksville – $638,414 for the Brecksville Police Department Equipment & Vehicle Replacement & Enhancement Project

• Case Western Reserve University – $2,000,000 for Next Generation Microgravity Research

• Independence Police Department – $320,000 for Independence Police Department Vehicle Modernization

• Cuyahoga County – $1,250,000 for the Olmsted Township Fitch Road Sewer Project

• City of Parma – $1,000,000 for W. 54th Street Sewer Improvement

• City of Brunswick – $1,990,000 for Stormwater Management Improvements

• City of Orrville – $750,000 for the City of Orrville Fire Station

• Village of Brooklyn Heights – $900,000 for the Brooklyn Heights Police and Fire Department Vehicle Re-Fortification

• Wooster Township – $3,000,000 for the Wooster Township New Fire Station

• City of North Royalton – $4,000,000 for the Royalton Road Reconstruction Phase II

• City of Solon – $2,000,000 for the Solon Ohio Diamond Diverging Project

• City of Parma Heights – $1,000,000 for the Parma Heights Street Rehabilitation Project

Editor’s note regarding Congressman Miller:

Congressman Max Miller represents Ohio’s Seventh District, which includes Medina and Wayne counties as well as parts of Cuyahoga and Holmes counties. Miller serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means and the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. The Republican sophomore members selected Miller as their representative to the Republican Steering Committee. He is a member of the Republican Study Committee and the Main Street Caucus. Before joining Congress, Miller spent six years in the Marine Corps Reserves and served in several senior positions for President Donald Trump. Please visit http://maxmiller.house.gov for more information.

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Chairwoman McClain Joins Michigan GOP Delegation Demanding Answers from Secretary Benson on Election Integrity

WASHINGTON— House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) today joined the entire Republican Michigan congressional delegation in sending a letter to Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson demanding immediate answers and accountability following confirmed cases of non-citizens voting in Michigan elections.

“Even one illegal vote is an attack on our democracy,” Chairwoman McClain said. “Secretary Jocelyn Benson told Michiganders their elections were secure, then her own office admitted noncitizens voted in a federal election. That’s a stunning failure. The people of Michigan deserve the full truth and real accountability.”

Rep. Tim Walberg (MI-5) led the letter, which was signed by Chairwoman McClain, Jack Bergman (MI-1), John Moolenaar (MI-2), Bill Huizenga (MI-4), Tom Barrett (MI-7), and John James (MI-10).

Read the full letter here.

Background:

In April 2025, Chairwoman McClain requested Secretary Benson release all findings from an investigation into the 2024 election that found 15 noncitizens voted and their ballots were included in the final election results for Michigan.

In October 2024, Chairwoman McClain sent a letter to Benson calling for answers after the Detroit News reported a Chinese national attending the University of Michigan voted illegally in the 2024 election.

At a Congressional hearing in September 2024, Benson claimed, "There is no evidence that non-citizens are voting."


McClellan Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Cybersecurity for Rural and Municipal Utilities

Washington, D.C. – In case you missed it: Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) and Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) introduced the Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act, bipartisan legislation to reauthorize and strengthen a critical program that helps rural and municipal electric utilities defend against growing cybersecurity threats to the nation’s energy grid.

As cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure become more sophisticated and frequent, the bill ensures that rural electric cooperatives and small utilities have access to advanced cybersecurity tools, technical assistance, and grant funding to protect, detect, respond to, and recover from cyber threats.

“As we work to adapt to a constantly changing technological landscape, cybersecurity threats continue to pose significant challenges,” said Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan. “That’s why I joined Rep. Miller-Meeks to introduce the Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act, which invests in our energy sector’s ability to protect against and respond to cybersecurity attacks that could undermine our energy grid. Deployment of advanced cybersecurity technologies may be the key to bolstering the security of the energy utility system we rely on to power American industry, especially in our rural communities.”

“Cyberattacks on our energy infrastructure pose a direct threat to national security, economic stability, and the safety of our communities,” said Congresswoman Miller-Meeks. “Rural and municipal utilities often lack the resources needed to defend against increasingly complex cyber threats. This bipartisan legislation ensures they have the tools, training, and support necessary to protect the grid and keep the lights on for millions of Americans.”

The bill reauthorizes the Rural and Municipal Utility Advanced Cybersecurity Grant and Technical Assistance Program, originally created under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and authorizes $250 million over five years to support deployment of advanced cybersecurity technologies and participation in information-sharing programs.

Stakeholders across the energy sector applauded the legislation.

“America’s electric cooperatives are making smart, responsible cybersecurity investments, but we need a strong government partnership to best defend the grid and ensure long-term resilience in the face of rapidly evolving cyber risks,” said Jim Matheson, CEO of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. “Continuing the Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Program will help close the rural resource gap and secure our nation’s critical infrastructure. We thank Congresswoman Miller-Meeks and Congresswoman McClellan for their leadership and commitment to strengthening energy security across rural America.”

“The Rural and Municipal Advanced Cybersecurity Grant and Technical Assistance (RMUC) Program represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to improve the cybersecurity of under-resourced, not-for-profit utilities,” said American Public Power Association (APPA) President & CEO Scott Corwin.

The Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act prioritizes assistance for utilities with limited cybersecurity resources and those operating assets critical to the bulk power system and national defense, while protecting sensitive information shared through the program.


McClellan Introduces GRAD Act to Expand Funding for HBCUs and PBIs

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Congresswoman Alma Adams (NC-12) and Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) introduced H.R. 7341, the Growing Reputable Academic Department (GRAD) Act, to support graduate-level STEM programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs) across the nation by expanding their access to federal funding.

HBCUs generate billions of dollars of economic impact and serve hundreds of thousands of students, yet they historically have been underfunded. Over the past several decades, philanthropic and foundation support for HBCUs dramatically declined, threatening students’ ability to thrive in environments that celebrate and support them. Nationwide, 25% of Black graduates and 46% of Black female graduates with STEM degrees come from HBCUs. To better foster STEM education and ensure our nation remains on the cutting edge of research and technological development, we must prioritize greater investment.

“Virginia’s Fourth boasts HBCUs that have prepared countless leaders in our Commonwealth. Nationwide, HBCUs and PBIs serve as pivotal academic, social and cultural institutions for Black Americans and provide historically marginalized communities access to quality higher education,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “However, these institutions suffer from a decades-long systemic lack of funding. That’s why I’m introducing the GRAD Act to provide a crucial lifeline to these centers for higher education by making their graduate-level STEM programs eligible for greater federal support. This legislation will address long-standing disparities, boost American research and improve representation in STEM fields.”

“As Ranking Member on the House Subcommittee for Higher Education and Workforce Development, I have championed the vital role HBCUs and PBIs play in educating the next generation of Black leaders, innovators, and researchers,” said Congresswoman Alma Adams, founder and co-chair of the Bipartisan, Bicameral Congressional HBCU Caucus. “The GRAD Act is another step in the long march to prove that investing in HBCU and PBI graduate STEM programs means investing in American excellence and our commitment to equity in higher education. This legislation will help ensure that HBCUs and PBIs can continue and expand their excellent work in STEM education and research.”

“Ensuring our nation’s STEM workforce is as competitive, innovative, and impactful as possible must start with reaching talented young professionals where they are, and some of the brightest and most exceptional America has to offer happen to attend its HBCUs and PBIs. Despite intentional and intergenerational neglect, these institutions have long persisted in their mission to open the doors of opportunity to intelligent young Black men and women. It is past time they receive the same transformative resources as their enumerated counterparts. I am proud to work alongside Congresswomen McClellan and Adams to pass the GRAD Act and guarantee the STEM professionals of tomorrow have the support and funding they need today,” said Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus.

This bill is cosponsored by Reps. Andre Carson, Troy Carter, Steve Cohen, Danny Davis, Cleo Fields, Valerie Foushee, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Hank Johnson, Summer Lee, Terri Sewell, Lateefah Simon and Eugene Vindman.

The GRAD ACT is endorsed by the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) and the United Negro College Fund (UNCF).

“Strategic investments in our great institutions of higher education are critical in ensuring that our nation produces talent equipped to fill the jobs of tomorrow and remains globally competitive,” TMCF President & CEO Dr. Harry L. Williams said. “The Growing Reputable Academic Departments (GRAD) Act is an instrumental piece of legislation to provide historically Black colleges and universities and predominantly Black institutions with the resources needed to invest in innovative STEM programs to meet the ever-evolving workforce needs.”

“The introduction of the GRAD Act is a critical step toward strengthening the capacity and long-term sustainability of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. By expanding access to federal support for graduate education and research infrastructure, this legislation recognizes what HBCUs have long demonstrated—our institutions are engines of talent, innovation, and economic mobility. The GRAD Act will help ensure HBCUs can continue to educate the next generation of scholars, professionals, and leaders while advancing equity in graduate education nationwide. UNCF applauds this effort and looks forward to working with Congress to see it enacted,” said Dr. Lodriquez Murray, Vice President of Government Affairs at UNCF.


McClellan Joins Walkinshaw, Van Hollen, Hoyer to Launch the Federal Workforce Caucus

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) joined U.S. Representatives James Walkinshaw (D-Va.), Steny Hoyer (D-Md.), and U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) to announce the launch of the Federal Workforce Caucus. The members are launching this Caucus to bolster efforts to protect federal workers and strengthen our merit-based federal civil service so these dedicated public servants can continue to deliver for the American people without political interference.

Additional members of the Caucus include U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Edward Markey (D-Mass.), and Mark Warner (D-Va.) and U.S. Representatives Don Beyer (D-Va.), Sarah Elfreth (D-Md.), Glenn Ivey (D-Md.), Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.), April McClain Delaney (D-Md.), Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Johnny Olszewski (D-Md.), Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), Bobby Scott (D-Va.), Suhas Subramanyam (D-Va.), and Eugene Vindman (D-Va.).

“Our federal workforce serves as our nation’s backbone, providing services that address the needs and improve the lives of the American people. Yet this past year, the Trump Administration set out to traumatize the very people who show up every day to keep our air and water clean, our roads and travel safe and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “As the state with the second highest number of federal employees, Virginia has felt the devastating effects of this all-out assault in our communities and local economy. The Federal Workforce Caucus will forefront the interests of our civil servants in Congress, and I’m honored to continue this fight to ensure we afford them the rights, opportunities and dignity they deserve.”

“As Co-Chair and Founder of the Federal Workforce Caucus, I’m proud to lead this effort to advocate for our dedicated federal workers and the good government values they uphold,” said Congressman Walkinshaw. “Virginia is home to nearly 150,000 federal workers, including more than 60,000 in Fairfax, who care for veterans, protect our food supply, respond to disasters, and keep essential programs running. Too often, they are treated as political targets instead of the backbone of an effective, nonpartisan civil service. This Caucus will be on the front lines defending merit-based public service and advancing policies to strengthen recruitment and retention, boost morale, and modernize pay and professional development. We will work every day to ensure government delivers world-class services for all Americans.”

“Federal workers deliver essential public services on behalf of the American people every day – they are the patriotic civil servants who care for our veterans, conduct food safety inspections, provide aid to communities struck by disaster, and so much more. But from day one, the Trump Administration has relentlessly attacked them and jeopardized the services they provide – as they pursue their ultimate goal of replacing qualified civil servants with political cronies who will do Trump’s bidding without regard for the law. We’re launching the Federal Workforce Caucus to stand united against this Administration’s attacks, to support our federal workers, and to protect the integrity of our merit-based civil service,” said Senator Van Hollen.

"Donald Trump and Russell Vought claim that our federal workers are 'villains' who ought to be 'put in trauma.' That's dead wrong. Federal employees are patriotic professionals who provide vital services to the American people every day. I have fought to protect them from DOGE's crusade, and Congress must do the same. That's why I'm pleased to help found the Federal Workforce Caucus," said Congressman Hoyer.

“Virginia is home to hundreds of thousands of hardworking public servants who keep our country safe and provide critical services to their fellow Americans,” said Senator Kaine. “As the Trump Administration attacks and vilifies this dedicated workforce, we must push back. I’m glad to join my colleagues in launching the Federal Workforce Caucus to protect and strengthen the federal workforce.”

"When federal workers take their oath, they don’t pledge allegiance to whoever is in the Oval Office, they pledge an oath to this nation and our constitution. They deserve our gratitude and respect, yet instead, this Administration has unleashed a witch hunt against our civil servants. The Federal Workforce Caucus is focused – through legislation, advocacy, and dialogue – on protecting our civil servants and allowing them to continue to serve the American people," said Senator Alsobrooks.

“Federal workers in Virginia and across the country are the backbone of services Americans depend on,” said Senator Warner. “As the Trump administration continues to target federal workers and use them as political bargaining chips, it is critical for lawmakers to come together and defend the job security, pay, and benefits of our dedicated civil service.”

“Over the past year, people and communities have protested, lawyers have sued, and courts have issued orders to protect our civil servants. It is an honor today to mark the establishment of a bipartisan, bicameral congressional caucus to support the people who work for all us – our nonpartisan, merit-based civil service. The Congressional Federal Workforce Caucus could not come at a more pivotal time. As the Trump-Vance administration and its allies escalate threats to our nation’s elections, our nation’s communities, and our nation’s civil servants, it is time to use all tools our democracy provides to push back and move forward. We are grateful to these lawmakers for taking an important step to protect and strengthen the civil service not just for today, but for the ability to build the people-centered government we all will need in the future,” Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward in remarks at the event.

“After a traumatic year for the civil service, including a 43-day government shutdown and unprecedented mass firings, this Caucus is very timely. Your members’ expertise and commitment will amplify the voice of the federal civilian workforce when it matters most. AFGE stands ready to support and work with the Caucus. Our country depends on it,” said Eric Bunn, Sr., National Secretary-Treasurer, American Federation of Government Employees, AFL-CIO (AFGE)

"The federal workforce has endured unimaginable harm, with over 300,000 employees separated, agencies wiped out and previously nonpartisan institutions politicized. Congress must stand for federal workers, and I believe the Federal Workforce Caucus will provide the venue to press for oversight and serve as a gathering place for all members who have constituents who rely on well-functioning government services,” said Max Stier, President and CEO, Partnership for Public Service.

“The federal workforce is essential to a legitimate democratic republic, yet our civil service is increasingly under attack – politically, structurally, and rhetorically,” said NFFE National President Randy Erwin. “These attacks weaken public accountability, lawful administration, and the quality of services Americans rely on every single day. The Federal Workforce Caucus will ensure the civil service is protected and strengthened, and critical services are delivered to the public while maintaining a skilled, apolitical workforce. Thank you to the co-chairs of the Caucus – Senator Van Hollen, and Representatives Walkinshaw and Hoyer – for your continued support of federal employees.”

“The federal public service workers who help keep our communities running deserve dignity, respect, and the security of knowing they’ll be paid on time,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. "Unfortunately, anti-worker politicians continue to exploit them to push their extreme agenda. In the last year, federal workers have been fired arbitrarily, stripped of their collective bargaining rights, and furloughed without pay during the shutdown. I applaud the members of the Federal Workforce Caucus for their focus on restoring dignity and respect to these dedicated public servants. It also highlights why we need solutions like Sen. Van Hollen and Rep. Walkinshaw's True Shutdown Fairness Act, which will ensure federal workers don't miss a paycheck or get fired during a shutdown. On behalf of the AFSCME members and the hardworking federal public service workers we represent, we thank the Federal Workforce Caucus for having our backs."

"IFPTE welcomes the launch of the Federal Workforce Caucus. Over the past year, our members who work for the federal government have witnessed unprecedented political interference, mass firings without cause, and unlawful efforts to deny federal workers their union rights and defund federal agency missions. Our democracy depends on a professional, nonpartisan federal civil service that serves the American public with accountability and integrity. We urgently call on Members of Congress in both chambers and both sides of the aisle to join the Caucus and work to uphold and protect merit system principles, due process protections, and a civil service that ensures that science and innovation, public health, safety, economic security, our national defense, and public services are delivered fairly, effectively, and effectively," said Matthew Biggs, President of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE)

“NTEU applauds Senator Van Hollen and Representatives Hoyer and Walkinshaw for launching the Federal Workforce Caucus to highlight the work and challenges facing federal workers across the country. Given the deluge of attacks employees have faced over the past year, from mass firings and illegal attempts to eliminate their union rights to threats against their pay and benefits, we appreciate the dedicated effort that this caucus will make to strengthen the nonpartisan civil service and ensure that federal employees are treated with dignity and respect so they can continue to provide the critical services the American people rely on,” said Doreen Greenwald, National President, NTEU.

The Federal Workforce Caucus will serve as a forum for Members to:

Support and strengthen the federal civilian workforce and the merit-based civil service system so that it can continue to deliver for American families and businesses;

Protect the integrity and nonpartisan character of federal employment;

Advance policies that improve recruitment, retention, and workforce morale across federal agencies;

Highlight stories that show how government programs and workers improve the lives of the American public;

Develop and advance data-informed policies that encourage modernization and innovative practices across the federal workforce in areas such as pay competitiveness, workforce performance optimization, and professional development;

Facilitate dialogue among Members of Congress, former and current federal employees, organizations, and unions representing federal employees, and subject-matter experts to inform efforts to modernize the federal government and attract the workforce needed to deliver for Americans.

“Federal workers help families put food on the table, protect veterans healing from the wounds of war, and empower communities in the face of environmental crisis. Over the past year, they’ve faced unprecedented attacks – mass firings, union busting, and illegal interference with their work – meant to demoralize and deplete the civil service. Federal workers deserve full support from Congress to protect their bargaining rights and their right to do their jobs without political obstruction,” said Senator Markey.

“Our federal civilian workforce is made up of dedicated public servants who keep our government running. While the Trump Administration fails to see the value in these public servants’ work, the Senate Federal Workforce Caucus, which we are launching today, stands with our government’s employees,” said Senator Durbin.

“The federal workforce is integral to our country and our communities, helping American families and businesses thrive. As this regime attacks federal workers and the critical work they do, I am proud to join this caucus, which will advance policies that support federal workers and the communities they serve,” said Senator Hirono. “As part of this caucus, I reaffirm my commitment to ensuring federal workers are recognized, protected, and receive the support they need to confront challenges and provide for the public.”

“Throughout the last year, President Trump and his administration have used dedicated federal public servants as political pawns. It’s unacceptable,” said Senator Blunt Rochester. “I’m proud to join this bicameral coalition in launching the Federal Workforce Caucus. To the nearly thousands of federal workers in Delaware and the millions around the country, we’ve got your back.”

"I am proud to be a part of the Federal Workforce Caucus to fight for the dedicated federal workers in our Commonwealth and across the country. Recent attacks on the federal workforce not only hurt our community, they hurt every single American by making it harder to deliver essential services and earned benefits. I am thrilled to be a part of this Caucus and look forward to continuing to champion federal workers,” said Congressman Subramanyam.

“Federal employees are the backbone of our national security, safe transportation, safe food, and clean water. But as our federal workforce remains under attack by the very people entrusted to lead it with massive purges designed to hollow out or eliminate key federal agencies, and through wanton cruelty targeting dedicated civil servants – I’m joining the Federal Workforce Caucus to stand up for our public servants. Over the years, I have fought to increase federal employees’ pay and expand their paid leave, and I will continue fighting to support the needs of the men and women who keep our country running,” said Congressman Beyer.

"Virginia is home to tens of thousands of federal workers, contractors, and service members who serve with a dedication to country, not political party. As their Representative, a 25-year Army officer, and as the husband of a former federal employee, I know that federal workers are essential to the success, safety, and stability of our nation,” said Congressman Vindman. "I will never back down from a fight to protect and honor those who choose a life of service. I am proud to be an inaugural member of the federal workforce caucus.”

"President Trump promised Americans that he would make their lives better; unfortunately, since taking office, the administration has only upended the lives of workers and their families,” said Congressman Scott. “The Trump administration’s reckless firing of thousands of civil servants – in some cases unlawfully – has left federal workers on edge and weakened public services. I am proud to support the Federal Workforce Caucus to ensure that workers' collective bargaining rights are upheld and Americans can access the earned benefits and services they depend on.”

“I’m pleased to join the Federal Workforce Caucus to stand with the dedicated public servants who keep our government working for the American people, tens of thousands of whom live in the nation's capital," said Congresswoman Norton. "A strong, merit-based federal civil service — free from political interference — is essential to effective governance and public trust. This caucus will play an important role in protecting federal workers and ensuring they can do their jobs with professionalism, independence, and integrity.”

“President Trump has berated, traumatized and mass-fired federal employees to destroy expertise and science and to remake our government in the image of his imbecilic incompetence,” said Congressman Raskin. “Our institutions were not built by generations of Americans to be broken up and sold for parts; they exist to serve the American people in every age. That’s why I’m proudly standing with my colleagues to establish the Federal Workforce Caucus to defend the professional civil service and the public servants who have helped build our amazing country.”

“The newly established bicameral Federal Workforce Caucus affirms a simple truth: good-paying federal jobs have helped build and sustain the middle class across the country, leveling the playing field while strengthening communities like ours in the Metropolitan Washington, DC area. Public service is the backbone of our country, and these careers should be an opportunity for dedicated Americans to serve the nation with honor while securing economic stability for their families. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues to protect, support, and invest in the federal workforce that keeps America moving forward,” said Congressman Ivey.

“Federal workers are the lifeblood of our democracy, and they perform countless essential duties that our country simply could not go without,” said Congressman Mfume. “They fulfill these duties without fear or favor because they are hard-working, patriotic Americans. I have always been a proud supporter of federal workers, and I am proud to join the Federal Workforce Caucus to work with my colleagues in the Congress on ways to better support the people that make the American government work.”

“Federal workers are not political pawns — they are the dedicated public servants who keep our country running. After Trump’s firings wiped out nearly 25,000 federal jobs in Maryland last year alone, the stakes could not be more clear. I’m proud to serve as a founding member of the Federal Workforce Caucus to defend a strong, nonpartisan civil service, protect merit-based hiring, and invest in recruitment, retention, and modernization so the federal workforce can keep delivering for the American people,” said Congressman Olszewski.

“As the proud daughter of two civil servants and the representative to over 45,000 federal employees in Maryland’s Third District, I am excited to join the Federal Workforce Caucus. The sledgehammer of DOGE not only hurt our hardworking civil servants – it impacted the hundreds of critical services that everyday Americans pay for and rely on. Now more than ever, we must strengthen and rebuild our federal workforce to ensure we continue to recruit the best and brightest into the important tradition of public service,” said Congresswoman Elfreth.


Menendez and Espaillat Lead Congressional Hispanic Caucus Roundtable on Deaths Caused by Trump Administration’s Extreme Anti-Immigrant Agenda

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Congressional Hispanic Caucus (“CHC”) Vice Chair of Policy Congressman Rob Menendez (NJ-08) and CHC Chair Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) led a CHC Policy Roundtable with Members of Congress and immigration experts and advocates on the rise in fatal incidents involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement ("ICE"). The roundtable follows the killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by Department of Homeland Security ("DHS") immigration enforcement officers, as well as the death of Jean Wilson Brutus following his detention at the Delaney Hall detention facility in Newark, New Jersey.

“Renee Good, Alex Pretti, Jean Wilson Brutus, and many others should still be with us today, but their lives were cut short because of the Trump Administration’s extreme and violent tactics,” said Congressman Menendez. “President Trump, Secretary Noem, and those they have tasked with executing their anti-immigrant agenda against our communities should know that the refusal of House Republicans to provide any oversight will not prevent them from being held accountable for their actions. The work we are doing with the policy experts and advocates present at our roundtable will inform our efforts to stop these abuses and ensure accountability.”

"The Trump administration made a conscious decision to attack civil liberties through paramilitary immigration enforcement. As a Congress, we must first recover the oversight powers our Republican colleagues have recklessly abandoned, then dismantle the excessive system and right-size immigration enforcement in accordance with our Constitution, our laws, and our values," said Congressman Espaillat. "The next step -- and our permanent vocation from this moment on -- will be to deliver accountability for all the excesses and abuses inflicted upon the people under Trump."

Rep. Menendez and roundtable attendees spoke about DHS' violent and aggressive tactics that have led to at least eight deaths involving ICE detention or DHS enforcement encounters and in 2025, 32 people died in ICE’s custody, creating urgent questions about enforcement tactics, detention conditions, and oversight deficiencies.

The following policy experts and advocates participated in the roundtable:

Naureen Shah, Director of Government Affairs, Equality Division, American Civil Liberties Union

Setareh Ghandehari, Advocacy Director, Detention Watch Network

Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, Senior Fellow, American Immigration Council

Sirine Shebaya, Executive Director, National Immigration Project


Menendez Supports New Jersey, New York, and Gateway Development Commission’s Efforts to Restore Hudson Tunnel Project Funding

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Rob Menendez released the following statement today after the the States of New Jersey and New York, and the Gateway Development Commission took legal action against the Trump Administration to secure the release of contractually-obligated grant and loan funds for the Hudson Tunnel Project (HTP):

“Trump’s illegal funding freeze is clear retaliation against Democratic lawmakers, with no regard to the severe economic damage that is being caused by his political games. The integrity of our commuter rail infrastructure is at risk and so are tens of thousands of union jobs. This Administration cannot freeze congressionally appropriated funding with no justification, and we support Governor Sherrill, the State of New York, and the Gateway Development Commission in any effort to restore this funding before the largest critical infrastructure project in the country is halted, the safety of commuters is put at risk, and jobs are lost.”


Messmer Applauds Emergency Action to Keep Indiana Coal Plants Open, Protect Grid Reliability

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) issued the following statement in response to an announcement from the Department of Energy’s Secretary Chris Wright, ordering utilities and grid operations to continue producing affordable energy at two coal generation stations in southern Indiana:

“Keeping reliable and affordable electricity flowing to Hoosier families and businesses is essential for our communities in Indiana’s 8th District. This gratifying announcement from the Department of Energy acknowledges how important it is in Southern Indiana to maintain a dependable base load power source, like that which comes from coal. Continued coal production will protect the energy grid and prevent electricity blackouts, while also providing lower energy costs, especially during extreme weather conditions. The Biden Administration’s Green New Deal scam is over. Americans deserve reliable and affordable energy.”

BACKGROUND:

Rep. Messmer today applauded the U.S. Department of Energy’s emergency orders directing utilities and grid operators to keep specified generation units at Newburgh’s F.B. Culley and Wheatfield’s R.M. Schahfer coal generating stations online through the winter months. Certain units at both facilities had been scheduled to retire at the end of 2025.

The action ensures reliable electricity remains available for Indiana while helping protect consumers from higher energy costs and grid instability.

The emergency orders are scheduled to remain in effect from December 23, 2025, through March 23, 2026, helping ensure sufficient electricity supply during peak winter demand.

For more information about how Rep. Messmer is working to make life more affordable for Hoosiers in Indiana’s 8th Congressional District, click the link here.

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Miller-Meeks, Grassley Bill to Improve Kids’ Access to Life-Saving Medical Care Becomes Law

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Legislation led by Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) which will improve access to life-saving medical care for children with complex medical conditions is now law after being signed as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 funding package.

The Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act, first introduced by Miller-Meeks in the 118th Congress, then reintroduced in the 119th, helps ensure children can receive specialized medical care across state lines by reducing Medicaid-related administrative barriers, while maintaining strong program integrity safeguards.

“This legislation is about putting children and families first,” said Dr. Miller-Meeks. “When a child has a complex medical condition, time matters. Families should not have to navigate endless red tape to access the best possible care for their child. The Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act helps ensure children can get timely, coordinated, life-saving treatment when and where it’s available.”

This legislation was also introduced in the Senate by Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Michael Bennet (D-CO) who had this to say of the bills passage:

“The last thing parents of children with complex medical conditions ought to battle is endless red tape to get the most effective specialist, treatment or procedure for their kids. They should be able to access this care quickly and wherever it’s available, whether that’s around the corner or across state lines. I’m glad to see the Senate approve our legislation to simplify the process so moms and dads don’t have to burn time fighting regulatory hurdles,” Grassley said.

“For children with complex medical conditions, bureaucratic red tape should not be an obstacle to care. This bipartisan legislation will make it easier for families to navigate our health care system and relieve some of the stress that they face to get their kids the care they need when they need it,” Bennet said.

This legislations passage also received strong support from the healthcare community.

“Nobody likes dealing with red tape, but when children with cancer encounter it, the stakes are exponentially higher,” said E. Anders Kolb, MD, president and CEO at Blood Cancer United. “Delays that children face when seeking out-of-state care can be dangerous, or even deadly. Our youngest cancer patients deserve better—and the Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act is an enormous step forward. Thank you to Representative Miller-Meeks for her leadership in passing this critical legislation.”

A full list of the 216 organizations supporting the Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act is available HERE.

Background:

Children with complex medical needs may not have the specialized care they need within their home state. In these instances, parents must work with health care providers and state Medicaid officials to find out-of-state care. The process is difficult and full of red tape, often delaying children and their families from receiving the care they desperately need – and in some cases blocking access to care altogether.

In order to reduce barriers to out-of-state care, the Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act allows states to streamline the process for out-of-state pediatric care providers to enroll in another state’s Medicaid program, while also safeguarding important program integrity processes. The legislation enables smooth coordination across state lines by clarifying the process by which state Medicaid programs can cover this care regardless of where the child lives and where their care is received.

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CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE HONORS HELEN PLUTA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

(Washington, D.C.)—Today, Congressman Joe Morelle delivered remarks on the floor of the House of Representatives in honor of Helen Pluta, a beloved Rochester philanthropist who was known personally for her warmth, humor and generosity of spirit. Congressman Morelle’s remarks, available below, will appear in the Congressional Record.

“I rise today to honor and celebrate a remarkable woman, Helen Pluta, whose life was defined by compassion, generosity, and unwavering commitment to others.

Helen’s contributions to Rochester are profound and lasting. Alongside her late husband Andy, she helped build the Pluta Cancer Center that began as a vision for compassionate, patient-centered care and continues today as a place of hope and healing that has served thousands of patients and families in our community, mine included.

Helen gave of her time, her spirit, and her heart bringing warmth and laughter wherever she went.

Helen and her entire family’s generosity opened doors and eased burdens. Their dedication reminds us what it means to truly care for your neighbor.

We mourn her passing but we also give thanks for a life of service, of love, and of profound impact.

Rochester is a better place because Helen Pluta walked among us.”

Video footage is available and can be viewed here.

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CONGRESSMAN MOYLAN SECURES ADDITIONAL COMMUNITY PROJECT FUNDING FOR GUAM AS GOVERNMENT REOPENS

Congressman James Moylan welcomed passage of the FY2026 federal funding package, which ends the partial government shutdown and funds 96 percent of the federal government. With 11 of 12 appropriations bills now enacted, federal operations have stability through September 30, 2026. Funding for the Department of Homeland Security is extended to February 13 as Congress completes the final bill.

“With nearly all federal funding bills enacted, we’ve brought certainty back to government operations and avoided prolonged disruption,” said Congressman Moylan. “That progress also reinforces the work already done to secure federal investments that directly benefit Guam’s communities.”

As part of the FY2026 appropriations, the Commerce, Justice, Science bill secured key public safety investments for Guam. These build on Community Project Funding already approved under the Agriculture and MILCON‑VA bills.

GUAM COMMUNITY PROJECT FUNDING — FY2026 APPROPRIATIONS

Commerce, Justice, Science (CJS) Appropriations

$1,025,000 for the Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency to acquire modern inspection equipment

$990,500 for the Guam Police Department to purchase new patrol vehicles

$538,505 for Guam Customs and Quarantine mobile command system

Agriculture Appropriations

$1.5 million for Todu Guam’s Wellness Center

$990,000 for WestCare to support a homeless shelter and transitional housing services

$689,206 for the Chalan Pago-Ordot Multipurpose/Emergency Shelter

$112,500 for Guam Fire Department emergency response vehicles and equipment

MILCON VA Appropriations

$50 million for Defense Access Roads, supporting critical transportation infrastructure impacted by military activity. These funds will help improve roads essential to both national defense and daily use by Guam residents.

“These projects reflect the full picture of public safety,” Moylan added. “Strong communities are safer communities.”


Nadler Statement on NO Vote on 2026 Government Funding Package

Today, Representative Jerrold Nadler (NY-12) released the following statement after voting against the Fiscal Year 2026 government funding package:

“Congress has a moral obligation to withhold funds from ICE and not allow them to continue terrorizing communities across the country. While I support other components of this funding package, this bill gives ICE a blank check to continue their brutal and reckless campaign to strike fear in immigrant communities and kill Americans on the streets. In just the past two weeks, ICE murdered two Americans and kidnapped a five-year-old boy.

"It is our legal and Constitutional right to conduct oversight, but the Administration has blocked Members who make unannounced visits to detention facilities because of the disgusting conditions. Last year over 30 people died in ICE custody, and just one month into 2026 at least six immigrants have died.


Neal Secures Over $14 Million in Congressionally Directed Spending for Local Projects

SPRINGFIELD, MA—Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement...

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(As prepared for delivery) Thank you, Mr. Chairman. It’s been over a year of the Republican trifecta in...


“Sounding the Alarm” Congressman Neguse Delivers Address on House Floor Condemning Trump Administration’s Rampant Corruption

Washington, D.C. — Today, Colorado Congressman Joe Neguse delivered an address on the House Floor “Sounding the Alarm” for the American people about the rampant corruption of the Trump administration. The 41-year-old millennial lawmaker, who represents Western and Northern Colorado, addressed the Chamber and Americans writ large to expose the Trump administration’s pay-to-play self-enrichment schemes and demand that Congress vindicate the Constitution and put a stop to the President’s corruption.

Neguse called on his Republican colleagues specifically to stand up for hard-working American taxpayers and to confront President Trump and his inner circle’s reckless self-dealing. His closing remarks were interrupted by the Speaker Pro Tempore, but not before he delivered a grave warning from America’s Founding Fathers about the corrosive effects of corruption in government.

To see the full video of Congressman Neguse’s remarks, click HERE.

A full transcript of his remarks is available below.

NEGUSE: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to sound an alarm. To sound an alarm about something dangerous and dark and pernicious that is happening inside our government.

And I recognize there are only a handful of my colleagues in the Chamber to hear that alarm. A few folks in the gallery. But I pray that Americans writ large will hear it.

George Orwell, in his famous book 1984, wrote of a time when, “The party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears. It was their final, most essential command.”

His warning proved prescient, because today the Trump administration asks the American people to ignore what they see with their own eyes and what they hear with their own ears, which is the complete corruption of their government from the inside out.

The Trump administration’s pay-to-play schemes are literally ripping off hard working American taxpayers as we speak. We see the evidence everywhere.

A $10 billion payout that Donald Trump, the President of the United States of America, now demands from his own Treasury Department in a lawsuit that he filed against the IRS. And, by the way, who does he demand pay him this $10 billion? The American taxpayer.

Countless pay-to-play schemes. Vanity projects that have consumed his administration. All paid by American taxpayers.

They are stripping the pocketbooks of Americans to line their own.

Last weekend, The New Yorker reported that the president and his family have raked in $4 billion in personal profits by leveraging the presidency. Think about that. $4 billion dollars.

And you know the most salient example of this, by the way, we just learned about in the last seven days. An exposé by the Wall Street Journal about a scheme that the Trump administration engaged in last year.

The Trump family, according to these public reports, sold a 49% stake in their crypto company to a member of the Emirati Royal Family. They did so for nearly half a billion dollars.

We don't know every detail of this transaction. We do know that the Trump family received $187 million from that transaction. A payday entangling the president’s financial interests with a foreign country.

And months later, we know that the Trump administration approved a crypto deal with the UAE that included transferring advanced U.S. technology and AI chips.

Mr. Speaker, this is corruption, plain and simple.

It is the prioritization of personal profit over the national security interests of our country. The country we all love so dearly.

It is wrong. It is immoral.

And my colleagues on the other side of the aisle say nothing.

Worse. Some of them defend this conduct. Notwithstanding that they know it is unlawful, that it is violative of our Constitution.

We have an Emoluments Clause, Mr. Speaker, for a reason.

The Foreign Emoluments Clause in our Constitution was one of the few provisions to survive and be transferred from the Articles of Confederation to the Constitution in 1787. It was contemplated for precisely a scenario as this one.

George Mason, one of our founding fathers, during the Constitutional Convention he warned his fellow delegates that, “If we do not provide against corruption, our government will soon be at an end.”

His words, they are as true today as they were when he said them 240-some-odd years ago.

It is shameful, the lack of courage from my Republican colleagues. It is repugnant to the Constitutional order that we all have been sworn to defend, to protect, to vindicate.

So, the question I have, Mr. Speaker, for my Republican colleagues, for every American of good faith is when is enough enough?

[Gavel bangs, interrupting. SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE: The Gentleman’s time…]

How many sweetheart deals will Republicans refuse to defend?

The corruption must end, Mr. Speaker.

[SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE:…has expired.]

The corruption must end.

[SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE: The Gentleman is no longer recognized.]

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