Oregon Lawmakers Demand Homeland Security Withdraw its Federal Agents from Portland After They Tear-Gassed Oregonians

Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici, Salinas, Bynum and Dexter: “Attacking our communities is not law enforcement: it is a blatant suppression of people’s constitutional rights.”

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden today led a letter with U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley and U.S. Reps. Suzanne Bonamici, Andrea Salinas, Janelle Bynum and Maxine Dexter demanding the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) withdraw its federal agents from Portland and stop inflicting violence on the American people in Oregon, Minnesota and nationwide.

The letter from the Oregon lawmakers to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem comes after the federal forces deployed by the Trump administration unleashed harmful chemical munitions and life-threatening projectiles this past weekend in Portland on Oregonians exercising their First Amendment rights in broad daylight.

“DHS agents indiscriminately launched tear gas, pepper balls, rubber bullets, and flash-bang grenades into a peaceful and planned gathering of labor groups, including nurses, teachers, and their families. We and our constituents watched in horror as federal agents aggressively tear-gassed children and elderly members of the community,” the lawmakers wrote. “The chemicals and projectiles used by your agents also threatened the health and safety of nearby residents. These people presented no threat, violated no law, and posed no danger to federal agents. Attacking our communities is not law enforcement: it is a blatant suppression of people’s constitutional rights. No lawful justification exists for such reckless and excessive use of force. We firmly oppose the actions of federal agents using deadly force against the very people they are sworn to protect and serve, and so should you.”

Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici, Salinas, Bynum and Dexter said in their letter to Noem that her department’s continued violent suppression of free speech has led directly to the murder of two U.S. citizens in broad daylight in Minneapolis, and the reckless conduct of federal agents has led to the deaths of countless immigrants in DHS custody.

“We have every reason to believe your continued lawless, paramilitary operations on our streets will be deadly for Oregonians,” they wrote. “This administration lacks any legal basis to continue its failed campaign of inciting violence in our communities, whether in Oregon, Minnesota, or anywhere else in America. Your violence has already wounded and killed too many people in U.S. cities. Therefore as elected representatives who swore the same oath you did to uphold the Constitution, we demand you immediately end using excessive force against our communities and withdraw your federal agents from Oregon.”

“The Oregon congressional delegation will use every tool at our disposal to protect all community members, who deserve to feel and be safe,” the Oregon lawmakers concluded. “No one in our community should live in fear of federal agents attacking them on their streets as punishment for exercising their constitutional rights. We will do everything in our power to defend the rights of Oregonians, including our immigrant communities, and we will work with our state and local community leaders, and partners across the nation, to continue peacefully countering the Trump administration’s lawless abuse of power.”

The entire letter is here.

Related Files


Wyden, Warren, Sanders Launch Investigation into Credit Contractor’s Scheme to Profit from Republican Cuts to Medicaid, SNAP

Equifax CEO calls work requirements created under Trump’s Big Ugly Bill “a big positive” new business opportunity, as millions of Americans lose health care and food assistance

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., said today that alongside Senators Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Bernard Sanders, I-Vt., he is launching an investigation into a credit contractor’s plan to profit off Republican policies designed to make it harder for Americans to get Medicaid coverage and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill now forces states to determine whether low-income adults qualify for Medicaid and SNAP based on their work, volunteer and/or school attendance. Currently, the overwhelming majority of Medicaid recipients are working, taking care of a loved one, in school, or dealing with a long-term illness. With roughly half of states relying on Equifax, the company maintains monopolistic dominance in the employment verification market.

Wyden raised concerns about Equifax seeing this process as a money-making opportunity that would rip away health care and food assistance from millions of Americans.

“[Republicans’ work requirements ] will ensure more Americans get tangled up in red tape and lose essential health care coverage and food assistance as a result,” Wyden and other senators warned Equifax CEO Mark Begor in a letter. “That these requirements could allow Equifax to profiteer off of this ‘solution’ make them even more egregious.”

Equifax’s monopolistic dominance in the employment verification market has led to the contract not only blocking competitors from acquiring critical data but also insufficiently investigating errors in its credit reports. With roughly half of states relying on Equifax, along with its repeatedly anticompetitive behavior, the letter spotlighted “serious concerns about the company’s potential moves to price gouge states and taxpayers. Equifax appears poised to squeeze states even more thanks to President Trump and Republicans’ new red-tape requirements.”


Young, Shaheen Statement on Trump Administration’s Critical Minerals Stockpile Announcement

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.),lead sponsors of the SECURE Minerals Act to create a new Strategic Resilience Reserve that ensures a domestic supply of critical minerals, released the following statement on the announcement that the Trump Administration is launching a $12 billion stockpile of critical and rare earth minerals:

“We are pleased to see the Administration take steps to stockpile critical minerals for economic purposes. It’s a clear sign that there is bipartisan support for securing a robust domestic supply of critical minerals that both reduces our reliance on China and stabilizes the market.

“Beyond this effort, we should ensure a reliable, long-term supply and provide the durability needed to grow and maintain a domestic critical minerals industry in order to stabilize prices and diversify our most important supply chains away from China. Our bipartisan, bicameral SECURE Minerals Act will give American companies and consumers the certainty we need to fend off supply chain disruptions, volatile prices and economic coercion from our most important economic adversary.

“With this announcement in mind, we look forward to working with our colleagues to earn more support and pass our bill through Congress to advance long-term American leadership to secure the materials and good jobs that strengthen our national security and grow our economy.”

Young and Shaheen recently introduced the SECURE Minerals Act to establish a Strategic Resilience Reserve in an independent government corporation to boost U.S. critical minerals supply and support the critical mineral market.


Rep. Young Kim Brings Home Critical Public Safety, Water, and Infrastructure Investments for California’s 40th District

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, President Trump signed into law key Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills, delivering full-year funding for national defense, infrastructure, public safety, water reliability, workforce development, and key priorities for Southern California. To date, 11 out of 12 Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills have been signed into law.

Congresswoman Young Kim (CA-40) secured major wins in the funding bills, bringing critical federal investments to Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties.

“I am laser focused on delivering results for families across Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties,” said Rep. Kim. “This funding strengthens America’s standing at home and abroad, fully funds our military, counters adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party, and invests in water reliability and public safety right here in Southern California. I will always fight to bring federal resources back to our communities and ensure every taxpayer dollar is used effectively for the people I represent.”

“On behalf of the City of Tustin, I want to sincerely thank Congresswoman Young Kim for securing $2.5 million in federal funding to support our Security Camera Improvement Project. This critical investment will help us improve security at parks and city facilities, enhancing public safety and providing valuable tools for law enforcement. We are grateful for Congresswoman Kim’s strong partnership and her continued commitment to keeping Tustin safe,” said Mayor Austin Lumbard.

“We appreciate Congresswoman Young Kim’s leadership in securing federal support for critical groundwater cleanup efforts. This funding will benefit approximately 2.5 million Orange County residents and the regional economy, and reflects a shared commitment to responsible stewardship of water resources through a strong federal–local partnership,” said OCWD Board President Denis Bilodeau.

“The Santa Margarita Water District is very grateful to Representative Kim for her continued leadership and support of the District as we enhance water reliability for our community. This new funding assistance will allow the District to capture urban water runoff to utilize as a source of local drinking water, offsetting future imported water needs in the arid southwest. Her commitment to innovative and resilient water projects, like the Oso Barrier Water Treatment Plant Project, enhances our quality of life and helps sustain the economic viability of our region,” said Board President Laura Freese.

“We are sincerely grateful to Congresswoman Kim for championing Yorba Linda Water District’s project and recognizing its importance to our community. Well 23 represents more than a new groundwater well; it is a strategic investment in local reliability, drought resilience, and responsible resource management. The residents and businesses we serve will directly benefit from a stronger, more sustainable water supply for years to come,” said Mark Toy, YLWD General Manager.

“This funding allows us to move forward with targeted intersection improvements that will make a measurable difference in daily travel safety. We value our partnership with Congresswoman Kim and the federal government in helping local communities deliver practical infrastructure solutions that protect residents, support regional mobility, and strengthen public safety,” said Mayor Don Caskey of Laguna Hills.

“For many years the Oso Creek Trail has been a beloved natural amenity of Mission Viejo, providing users with a unique opportunity to interact with our pristine environment, exercise, socialize, celebrate and much more. I’m so appreciative of Congresswoman Kim’s efforts to secure this funding that will allow for additionalenhancements to be made to the trail that will benefit our community,” said Mayor Wendy Bucknum.

“Orange is incredibly grateful for Congresswoman Kim’s efforts to secure $1,000,000 for long-overdue Orange Fire Department Station 3 upgrades. The funding will not only offset costs to the city, but it will help ensure the safety of our community,” said the city of Orange.

“The City of Yorba Linda is grateful to Congresswoman Young Kim for securing $3 million in federal funding for the Savi Ranch Parkway Road Improvement Project. The project is a forward-thinking investment in Yorba Linda’s safety, mobility, and long-term infrastructure that would not be possible without Congresswoman Kim’s support. By adding a lane of traffic between Mirage Street and Yorba Linda Boulevard, enhancing key turn movements, streamlining traffic flow, and improving safety, the City will reduce congestion and significantly improve daily travel for residents, businesses, and visitors. We appreciate Congresswoman Kim’s leadership in delivering critical federal support for Yorba Linda’s and our region’s transportation priorities,” said Mayor Carlos Rodriguez.

“We appreciate Representative Young Kim’s leadership in securing $3 million for the SR-55 Improvement Project and $1.7 million for the I-5 Improvement Project in the FY26 appropriations package. These investments will help ease congestion, improve safety, and keep traffic moving on two of Orange County’s busiest corridors. Federal partnerships like these are critical to delivering major infrastructure projects to strengthen our economy and better connect our communities, and we are grateful for the continued advocacy for Orange County,” said OCTA CEO Darrell E. Johnson.

“Given the increasing call volume and aging infrastructure facing our department, we aim to partner with leaders who share our commitment to provide first responders with the tools, training, and accommodations they need and deserve to protect life and property at the highest level. Congresswoman Young Kim is such a leader, and our gratitude for her recent $1 million allocation for improvements to OCFA Fire Station 9 is matched only by the impact this much-needed refurbishment will have on our firefighters and the Mission Viejo communities they serve,” said TJ McGovern, Interim Fire Chief of the Orange County Fire Authority.

“The Riverside County Transportation Commission appreciates Representative Kim’s work to secure $3 million for the 91 Eastbound Corridor Operations Project. State Route 91 is a backbone of our communities, the region, and beyond. With continued support from our federal partners, RCTC is advancing this key project to relieve traffic, improve safety, and move our economy and region forward,” said RCTC Chair and Cathedral City Mayor Raymond Gregory.

“Congresswoman Young Kim’s support for this project reflects a shared commitment to building a strong, future-ready workforce for California’s 40th Congressional District and beyond. By modernizing our water science laboratory facilities, Santiago Canyon College will expand access to hands-on, industry-aligned training that leads directly to well-paying careers. This investment supports the growth of our proposed Bachelor of Science in Water Science and strengthens our community’s workforce pipeline,” said Dr. Jeannie G. Kim, President of Santiago Canyon College.

Strengthening America’s Security & Standing in the World

$839.2 billion to strengthen U.S. military capabilities and national defense

$1.8 billion to bolster Indo-Pacific security and counter Chinese Communist Party influence

Full funding for the Countering PRC Influence Fund

Robust support for key allies including Taiwan and Israel

Investments in counternarcotics efforts and High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) to combat fentanyl and transnational crime

Protecting Taxpayers, Cracking Down on Fraud, and Improving Public Safety

Refocuses IRS resources toward customer service and away from abusive audits

Bolsters enforcement against financial scams and robocalls

Strengthens tools to combat foreign malign influence

Supports law enforcement coordination to address organized “burglary tourism”

Directs USPS to review overlapping ZIP codes impacting North Tustin families and report back to Congress with solutions

Strengthened school safety through streamlined access to STOP School Violence Act grants

Funding for the Office on Violence Against Women to support victims of domestic violence

$102.9 billion nationally to modernize infrastructure, strengthen transportation safety, and support American industry

Representative Kim also secured over $20.8 million in direct funding for community improvement projects in CA-40, including:

$2.5 million for the Tustin Security Improvement Project to install security cameras in parks and public facilities and improve public safety.

$500,000 for the Anaheim Police Department Real-Time Crime Center which equips law enforcement officers with the tools needed to deter and solve crimes, share real-time intelligence, and support patrol operations.

$1 million for Orange County Fire Authority’s Mission Viejo Fire Station #9renovation activities to boost fire response and keep our communities safe.

$1 million for the City of Orange’s Fire Station 3 Improvement Project to expand storage and workshop space for firefighters.

$1.105 million for the Yorba Linda Water District’s Well 23 Sec. 219 Environmental Infrastructure to improve water security by tapping into groundwater resources and reducing reliance on imported water supplies.

$750,000 for the Orange County Water District’s PFAS Treatment Projects to provide critical and immediate treatment of drinking water wells, ensuring a safe, local, drought-proof water supply.

$750,000 for the Santa Margarita Water District’s Oso Barrier Water Treatment Plant to boost water storage and recycling and reduce reliance on imported water supplies.

$1.7 million for the Orange County Transportation Authority’s I-5 Improvement Project to address current and future traffic demands between I-405 and SR-55.

$3 million for the Riverside County Transportation Commission’s State Route 91 Eastbound Corridor Operations Project to create a new eastbound lane along State Route 91 to improve traffic operations, especially during afternoon and evening hours.

$3 million for the Orange County Transportation Authority’s State Route 55 Improvement Project to reduce traffic congestion along SR-55 between I-5 and SR-91.

$3 million for the City of Yorba Linda’s Savi Ranch Parkway Road Improvement Project to address traffic congestion and enhance multimodal connectivity along Savi Ranch Parkway.

$1 million for the Santiago Canyon College Career Training Infrastructure Expansion Project to upgrade the College’s new water science and career training lab and prepare Orange County students for well-paying jobs in critical fields like water management.

$1 million for the City of Laguna Hills’ Citywide Intersection Safety Enhancements to address high-volume traffic challenges, enhance safety for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, and ensure clear paths for emergency vehicles.


Rep. Al Green Questions Trump Market Manipulation After Tariff Pause and DJT Stock Surge

(Washington, DC) — On Wednesday, February 4, 2026, Congressman Al Green, Ranking Member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, shared remarks in a Financial Services Hearing entitled, “The Annual Report of the Financial Stability Oversight Council."

You can access and listen to Congressman Al Green's remarks by clicking here. The hearing remarks highlighted are also accessible on various social media platforms, including Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly known as Twitter).


Amo Secures Bipartisan Wins for Science and Space Cooperation in NASA Reauthorization Act

Washington, DC – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) secured passage of two bipartisan pieces of legislation during the NASA Reauthorization Act markup in the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. Amo introduced the Taiwan and American Space Assistance Act, co-led by Congressman French Hill (R-AR), as an amendment, and the Drone Safety Enhancement Act, co-led by Congressman Tom Kean (R-NJ), was included in the base text of the NASA Reauthorization Act.

“From the first steps on the Moon to the next generation of space discovery, American leadership has been bolstered by strong partnerships across borders and scientific disciplines,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “I’m grateful to work with Congressman Hill and Congressman Kean on the bipartisan TASA Act and the Drone Safety Enhancement Act, respectively, to build America’s proud legacy of innovation in science and technology. I look forward to these bills becoming law and continuing to work across the aisle, and the world, to promote science.”

“I’m pleased that my and Rep. Gabe Amo’s bill, the TASA Act, was voted out of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology,” said Congressman French Hill (R-AR). The bill strengthens civilian space cooperation between NASA, NOAA, and Taiwan’s Space Agency, including collaboration on satellites, exploration, and atmospheric research. As Taiwan continues to develop its space program, this cooperation highlights the strength of the U.S.-Taiwan partnership and our commitment to allies in the region. American support will also encourage Taiwan to continue investing in its growing space capabilities. Thank you to Rep. Amo and Rep. Mike Haridopolos for helping advance the TASA Act through the SST Committee.”

"My bill, the Drone Safety Enhancement Act, advanced in the House as part of the NASA Reauthorization Act," said Congressman Tom Kean, Jr (R-NJ). "I introduced this bipartisan legislation with Congressman Amo to direct federal research toward the responsible integration of drone technology and autonomous aviation systems. Continued R&D in this field is vital to America’s competitiveness and to ensuring our airspace remains safe, efficient, and prepared for the future."

Background

In September 2025, Congressman Amo and Congressman Hill introduced the Taiwan and American Space Assistance Act to strengthen scientific cooperation with a key democratic partner in the Indo-Pacific. The bill would direct NASA, NOAA, and the State Department to better coordinate with Taiwan on space exploration, satellite development, atmospheric research, and science education.

In December 2025, Congressman Amo and Congressman Kean introduced the Drone Safety Enhancement Act to support enhanced research across federal agencies to safely integrate drones and advanced air mobility technologies into the national airspace.

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Ansari Announces Over $17.7 Million in Community Project Funding Signed into Law for AZ-03

WASHINGTON – Today, Representative Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) announced more than $17.7 million in her Community Project Funding (CPF) requests for Arizona’s Third Congressional District have been signed into law by the president.

“I’m incredibly proud to see these projects over the finish line during a tumultuous time in D.C.,” said Rep. Ansari. “These diverse investments reflect what our community told us they need the most. I’m grateful to have worked with local partners to bring funding to AZ-03, and I look forward to seeing these essential dollars being put to work across our district.”

Ansari’s Community Project Funding signed into law:

$2.175 million for the City of Phoenix Fire Wildland Urban Interface

$2.062 million for the Arizona State University Center for Heat Resilient Communities

$2.062 million for the Arizona State University CHIPS and Domestic Manufacturing Research Initiative

$2.062 million for the City of Phoenix’s Real Time Crime Center

$2.0 million for the Town of Guadalupe Biehn Colony Park Reconstruction

$1.092 million for the City of Tolleson Wastewater Digester #4 Project

$1.015 million for the City of Tolleson Multi-Modal Path Lighting Project, supporting lighting infrastructure, planning, environmental compliance, and contingency funds along a multimodal canal path

$1.008 million for the Arouet Foundation’s 2026 Reentry Prosperity Model

$1.0 million for the Valley Metro Community Safety Project

$850,000 for City of Glendale Transportation Improvements

$830,000 for City of Phoenix Central Arizona Shelter Services’ Single Adult Shelter Renovations

$800,000 for City of Phoenix Alternative Fuel Vehicle Fires Mitigation

$580,000 for Axiom Community of Recovery’s Transition to Recovery and Reentry program

$250,000 for Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport Improvements

“Thank you to Congresswoman Ansari for continuing to deliver for Phoenix. This federal funding for Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and the Phoenix Fire Department will bring much needed investments to our city,” said Mayor Kate Gallego. “Sky Harbor is continuously working to meet future demands, and this funding will pave the way for a new West Terminal. In addition, the investment in our Fire Department will improve public safety by enhancing firefighter readiness and wildfire response.”

“We are delighted to learn that the $2 million Biehn Colony Park Renovation Project was approved in the Transportation appropriations bill. We thank Congresswoman Ansari for her leadership of this project and her ongoing support of the Town of Guadalupe. With this funding, we will renovate the much-used baseball field, its stands, lighting and restrooms, add a new playground, park lighting, and park path,” stated Town of Guadalupe Mayor Valerie Molina.

“Tolleson isn’t just where I serve—it’s where my family has built our life. My parents are active at our senior center, my wife teaches our youngest learners, and I work every day knowing this community raised me. This investment protects public health, supports responsible growth, and honors the people who call Tolleson home. I’m grateful to Congresswoman Ansari for recognizing the needs of communities like ours,” said City of Tolleson Mayor Juan F. Rodriguez.

“As someone born and raised in Tolleson, with deep family roots in this community, I understand how critical it is to invest in the infrastructure that keeps our city healthy, growing, and resilient. This federal funding for our Wastewater Digester #4 Project is an investment in public health, environmental stewardship, and the long-term future of Tolleson. We are grateful to Congresswoman Ansari for her leadership and for delivering meaningful resources to our community,” said City of Tolleson Vice Mayor Jimmy Davis.

“CASS is incredibly grateful for being awarded $830,000 for capital improvements at our 600-bed shelter for single adults. We'll put these funds to good use in service to the thousands of people who stay in that shelter each year. Thank you, Congresswoman Ansari, Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego, Mayor Kate Gallego, Councilwoman Debra Stark and the City of Phoenix for partnering with CASS to get people off the streets and into homes of their own,” said Nathan Smith, CEO of Central Arizona Shelter Services.

“Thank you to Congresswoman Ansari for your leadership and investment in public safety. The City is grateful for the support of two key projects that provide additional resources to help mitigate alternative-fuel vehicle fires and advance efforts in Wildland Urban Interface high-risk communities,” Phoenix Fire Chief Mike Duran said. “The Alternative Fuel Vehicle Fire Mitigation and Acquisition project provides dedicated EV fire response equipment, enhancing incident control, faster suppression, and resilience against emerging vehicle fire risks. In addition, the Phoenix Fire Wildland and Emergency Response Acquisition project enhances wildfire response in high-risk areas and ensures more dependable emergency medical transport where it’s needed most. These public safety investments represent a meaningful step towards building a safer and more resilient Phoenix.”

“We are incredibly grateful for Rep. Ansari's advocacy and support in requesting this critical funding for Valley Metro,” said Valley Metro CEO Jessica Mefford-Miller. “The $1 million investment will strengthen our partnerships with local law enforcement and behavioral health professionals to provide compassionate, effective responses and connect individuals with essential services, helping to create a more positive transit environment.”

“We are thrilled and deeply grateful to Congresswoman Ansari for her leadership in advancing this important investment. Every woman coming home deserves the chance to return to her family healthy, supported, and with real opportunities for success. This funding recognizes that the reentry period is critical and deserves thoughtful, evidence-based support. This investment will reduce recidivism, help prevent overdose, and strengthen families and communities across Arizona,” said Alison Rapping, CEO of Arouet.

“These congressional investments highlight Arizona State University’s ability to meet urgent challenges with practical solutions that serve Arizona and the nation,” said Sally C. Morton, Executive Vice President of ASU Knowledge Enterprise. “From strengthening heat preparedness to advancing water-efficient technologies for domestic semiconductor manufacturing, these projects protect public health, reinforce critical infrastructure, and support economic competitiveness in water- and heat-stressed regions. Congressman Stanton and Congresswoman Ansari understand Arizona’s unique position regarding both issues, and the university appreciates their support. We are eager to be of service to ensure this research delivers measurable benefits and solutions.”

“After many years of service and a lifetime in Tolleson, I’ve seen how thoughtful investments strengthen our community. This funding ensures our city remains reliable, prepared for growth, and focused on the people who call Tolleson home. I’m grateful to Congresswoman Ansari for her leadership,” said City of Tolleson Councilmember Linda Laborin.

“Tolleson has been my home for decades—as an educator, mayor, and councilmember—and every decision I make is guided by what’s best for our families. This investment reflects responsible planning and care for the community we love. We thank Congresswoman Ansari for supporting Tolleson’s future,” City of Tolleson Councilmember Adolfo Gamez.

“As a teacher and lifelong Tolleson resident, I believe strong communities are built through care and thoughtful investment. This funding supports safe, healthy neighborhoods and helps ensure a strong future for our families. I’m grateful to Congresswoman Ansari for investing in communities like ours,” City of Tolleson Councilmember Clorinda Erives.

“Having worked for years at Tolleson High School and lived in this community my entire life, I know how deeply connected our families are to this city. This project is an investment in the people of Tolleson and the systems that support our daily lives. I appreciate Congresswoman Ansari’s commitment to our community,” City of Tolleson Councilmember Cruzita Mendoza.

“I’ve spent years serving the public and living in the Tolleson community, and I know how essential strong infrastructure is for our families. This investment supports public health, sustainability, and the long-term well-being of our residents. I appreciate Congresswoman Ansari’s partnership and commitment to Tolleson,” City of Tolleson Councilmember Christine Chavira.

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Ansari, Arizona House Democrats Respond to Secretary Noem’s Visit to Nogales

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Representatives Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03, Greg Stanton (AZ-04), and Adelita S. Grijalva (AZ-07), released the following statements in response to Secretary Noem’s press conference in Nogales, Arizona:

Representative Ansari:

“I’m the proud daughter of immigrants – my parents fled Iran and a corrupt, authoritarian regime. I won’t sit by and watch as the country they saw as the shining example of democracy becomes an authoritarian regime as well. Under Kristi Noem’s direction, ICE has murdered two U.S. citizens in broad daylight, and dozens have died behind closed doors in detention centers funded by your taxpayer dollars. Kristi Noem must be impeached.”

Representative Stanton:

“At FEMA, she likely cost American lives by bottlenecking critical disaster aid to consolidate power. Now her attempts at securing the border sit stalled on her desk, as Axios reported today. The pattern is clear: she prioritizes control and photo ops over any real work to keep Americans safe,” Rep Stanton said. “If Donald Trump won’t fire her, Congress must.”

Representative Grijalva:

“Secretary Noem’s visit to Nogales is a publicity stunt, plain and simple. Instead of listening to local leaders, she continues to push for militarization, treating border communities like war zones rather than places where families live, work and thrive. Ambos Nogales is, and always has been, a proud, vibrant community – not a prop for Trump’s anti-immigrant agenda that has sown chaos and cost American lives. Yesterday, I voted against continued funding for DHS because Secretary Noem is enabling violence, racial profiling, and terrorizing our communities. She must stop the fearmongering, end the political theater, and resign immediately - or be impeached.”


Arrington Honors West Texas WWII Veteran J.L. Stevens on House Floor

Washington, D.C. – Today, House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) spoke on the House floor to honor West Texas hero and World War II veteran J.L. Stevens of Big Spring, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday.

Click HERE to watch

Remarks as Delivered:

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a true West Texas giant and American hero – Mr. J.L. Stevens of Big Spring, USA, a World War II veteran who just turned 100 years old this past week.

He is a living monument to the grit, courage, and quiet humility and service that define both West Texas and America's Greatest Generation.

In 1943, at just 17 years old, Mr. Speaker, this gentleman enlisted in the United States Navy, serving as a Gunner's Mate aboard the USS Hambleton, where he directly engaged the enemy on D-Day while supporting the Allied invasion of Normandy.

Despite suffering combat injuries in Europe, Mr. Stevens continued his service, which concluded in 1945 in the Pacific Theater, where he personally witnessed the signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender in Tokyo Harbor, bringing World War II to its official end.

After the war, Mr. Stevens returned to his home in West Texas where he worked as a carpenter, helping to build the firehouse there in Big Spring and the city's original VA hospital.

Mr. Speaker, Mr. J.L. Stevens represents the very best of West Texas – in his heroic service to our country and in a lifetime of hard work, faith, and devotion to his family, to his community, and to this great country of ours.

I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing him a happy 100th birthday and thanking him for a legacy of service that will long endure.

Mr. Stevens, here's to many more!

God bless you and God bless America.

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President Trump Signs Arrington’s Groundbreaking Cancer Detection Bill Into Law

Washington, D.C. – President Trump has signed into law H.R. 7148, a legislative package that includes House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington’s (TX-19) groundbreaking cancer detection legislation, theNancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act.

This landmark new law represents a major step forward in the fight against cancer by ensuring that Medicare beneficiaries gain timely access to multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests once they are approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Early detection saves lives, and this legislation will help ensure seniors are not left behind as lifesaving medical innovation advances.

The bill, led by Chairman Arrington and his Democratic co-lead Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), received overwhelming bipartisan support in Congress and was backed by a broad coalition of advocates and outside groups across the country - including Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott.

“I, alongside my colleague Rep. Terri Sewell, are incredibly proud to announce President Trump has signed into law our bipartisan Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act,” said Chairman Arrington. “This critical law will give seniors access to groundbreaking innovation that will transform the way we treat, diagnose, and prevent cancer. With over 338 House cosponsors, 60 Senate cosponsors, 500 supporting organizations, and even Dallas Cowboys QB Dak Prescott, together, we are unleashing the power of early detection and saving millions of lives.”

“It's official! On this World Cancer Day, I'm excited to announce that the Nancy Gardner Sewell Multi-Cancer Early Detection Act has been signed into law,” said Rep. Sewell. “I join millions of Americans in celebrating this historic victory which will help transform the way we detect, diagnose, and treat cancer for seniors all across America. We did it, Mommy.”

Honoring Nancy Gardner Sewell

Arrington named the legislation in honor of the mother of his Democrat colleague, Rep. Terri Sewell, who passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2021. Last year, the legislation was passed out of the Ways & Means Committee by a unanimous, bipartisan vote of 38-0.

Dallas Cowboys

In 2023, Dallas Cowboys Quarterback Dak Prescott paid for the entire team’s staff to receive MCED screening, leading to the early detection of Cowboy’s Vice President of Communications Tad Carper’s cancer in his tonsils – detecting his cancer before any symptoms had appeared. Carper credits the screening with saving his life, and has since advocated for increased accessibility, as seen in his open-letter to Chairman Arrington from November 22, 2024.

“This is critical for so many across our nation. A true game-changing life-saver. I was lucky enough to benefit from the access Dak provided. It shouldn’t need to come to that, though,” said Tad Carper, Vice President of Communications for the Dallas Cowboys. “You have to step back and ask, why in the world would this not be something that is easily and affordably available to everyone? What are our priorities? Isn’t this also creating a great financial savings for all compared to the alternative of catching things late in the game? It is inexcusable for this to be available, yet hitting roadblocks and delays. I applaud the efforts currently being made to save lives and the work being done by leaders like Representative Arrington and others to focus on what is needed.”

Dak Prescott’s mother, Peggy Prescott, passed away in 2013 from colon cancer that was not diagnosed until it had progressed to stage 4. If it had been available, MCED screening could have potentially saved her life.

“If early detection was easy and available, my mother and so many others would still be alive,” said Dak Prescott, Quarterback of the Dallas Cowboys. “The science and technology exist right now to dramatically reduce the impact of cancer and change the story of countless people and families for generations to come. We need this now. There is no acceptable reason for delay. This is literally about life and death, like it was for Tad.”

Coalition Support

“With the signing of the MCED Screening Coverage Act, we are opening the door to a new era in how cancer is detected and ultimately prevented,” said Jody Hoyos, CEO of the Prevent Cancer Foundation. “This law aligns our health care system with the pace of scientific innovation and brings us one step closer to a future where more cancers are found earlier—when treatment is more effective and lives can be saved.”

“ACS CAN is grateful that Congress worked together to bring these cancer-fighting provisions across the finish line,” said Shane Jacobson, CEO of the American Cancer Society and American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN). “They represent real progress for patients, survivors and families facing cancer every day. We thank all members, especially House and Senate appropriators, for recognizing the urgency of sustained investment in cancer research, prevention and access to care. We are also deeply grateful to the thousands of ACS CAN volunteers from across the country who worked tirelessly to share their stories. These volunteers collectively sent more than 126,000 messages to lawmakers to help make these victories possible. Their voices, persistence and commitment were essential, and their advocacy continues to drive the progress needed to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.”

“It’s a historic day in the fight against cancer. We are deeply grateful to lawmakers, especially Representatives Terri Sewell (D-AL) and Jodey Arrington (R-TX), patient advocates, and all those who fought tirelessly for this groundbreaking legislation,” said Kevin Conroy, chairman and CEO of Exact Sciences. “Most importantly, we are thrilled for the countless individuals whose lives will be impacted by these tests, potentially giving them more opportunities to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and precious moments with their loved ones.”

Laura Crandall Brown Foundation said, “Today changes what’s possible in cancer detection. Years of momentum, overwhelming stakeholder support, and bipartisan leadership led to this moment. The MCED Act has passed, marking one of the most significant cancer policy advances in years. Thank you Rep. Terri Sewell!”

Cancer Support Community said, “We are proud to have stood with 550+ advocacy organizations calling for passage of the MCED Act. Today, the cancer community won.”

Association of Cancer Care Centers said, “ACCC is proud to have stood with 550+ advocacy organizations calling for passage of the MCED Act. This week, with the passage of this legislation providing for Medicare coverage of multi-cancer early detection tests once they are FDA approved, the cancer community won. Thank you so much Speaker Mike Johnson; Representative Hakeen Jeffries; Representative Jodey Arrington; Representative Terri Sewell; Representative Richard Hudson; Representative Raul Ruiz, MD; Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks, MD; Representative Robin Kelly; Senate Majority Leader John Thune; Senator Chuck Schumer; Senator Mike Crapo; Senator Michael Bennet; Senator Tim Scott; and Senator Ron Wyden.”

IDT President Ajay Gannerkote says, “IDT has been a driving force in supporting the development of multi‑cancer early detection (MCED) and minimal residual disease (MRD) technologies, leveraging our bespoke manufacturing and NGS expertise to advance precision oncology research worldwide. NGS has already reshaped how cancer is studied and detected, and MCED and MRD technologies will further expand these capabilities. With this legislation, the industry’s need to partner with manufacturers at the forefront of innovation, who have specialized, high‑throughput production, like IDT, has never been clearer—we are uniquely positioned to help scale and accelerate the science that underpins the future of cancer detection. Many of the world’s leaders developing MCED research programs already rely on IDT today to support their assay development and innovation, and we are ready to help them build this next wave of precision oncology research.”

GO2 for Lung Cancer said, “We are proud to have stood with 550+ advocacy organizations in support of the MCED Act. Today, the cancer community won.”

National Grange said, “The MCED Act is a major win for rural communities! THANK YOU.”

Palmetto Health Collective said, “A huge step forward for cancer patients and families nationwide: the MCED Act has passed. Early detection just became a national priority.”

Letters of Support for H.R. 842 from the following organizations:

Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC)

Cancer Support Community (CSC)

Fight Colorectal Cancer

GO2 for Lung Cancer

The National Grange

National Minority Quality Forum Action Network

Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA)

Prevent Cancer Foundation (PCF)

Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts

Gilda’s Club Kansas City

Background:

The Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act would increase seniors’ timely access to multi-cancer early detection technology by creating a pathway to Medicare coverage. This bill will allow for Medicare coverage of MCED screenings once they are approved by the Food and Drug Administration. These new MCED screening tools will complement existing screening and dramatically improve our nation’s cancer early detection capabilities. Currently, we are only able to commonly screen for five cancers and just 14% of cancers are found through screenings. These tools introduce a significant shift in the cancer screening landscape. Ensuring seniors have timely access is essential since age is the primary risk factor for cancer and more than 70% of cancer diagnoses are in the Medicare population. This legislation will open the door to a new era of detecting and treating cancer while ensuring that our most vulnerable citizens are not left behind.

Specifically, the legislation would:

Create the authority for CMS to cover blood-based MCED tests and future test methods once approved by the FDA and shown to have clinical benefit.

Maintain CMS’ authority to use an evidence-based process to determine coverage parameters for these new tests.

Clarify that (1) these new tools will complement, not replace, existing screenings and coverage and (2) cost sharing will not be impacted.


Rep. Becca Balint's Statement on ICE Detention of Vermont Pastor and Nursing Assistant

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Vermont Congressional Delegation, U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and U.S. Representative Becca Balint (VT-At-Large), today released the following statement:

“We are horrified to learn of the detention of Vermont pastor and nursing assistant Steven Tendo by ICE outside of his workplace today — just days ahead of a regular check-in with immigration authorities. Pastor Tendo fled persecution and torture in Uganda and has lived peacefully in Vermont for many years as a valued member of our community. People like Pastor Tendo are exactly who our asylum system is meant to protect. We join together with many Vermonters in calling on the Trump administration to ensure Pastor Tendo is allowed to return to Vermont and that he is immediately afforded full due process, including the right to contact his attorney while his appeal is considered.”


Michigan Republican Delegation Demands Answers from Secretary Benson on Election Integrity

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) and the Michigan Republican congressional delegation today sent a letter to Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson demanding answers about ongoing election integrity concerns in Michigan. The letter comes after Macomb County Clerk Anthony Forlini recently identified 14 non-citizens who were registered to vote, some of whom had a voting history. This is in addition to earlier reporting that at least 15 non-citizens were found to have cast ballots in the 2024 election.

“While you admit you are aware of instances of non-citizen voting, you continued to erode public confidence by refusing to comply with a lawful request by the Department of Justice to provide them Michigan’s voter registration data to ensure that Michigan’s voter rolls are being properly maintained,” the lawmakers wrote. “Your refusal to comply with the DOJ’s request and assist in building the public’s confidence in Michigan elections invalidates your statement to the Committee on House Administration that you believe your responsibility is to 'ensure our elections are accessible, safe, secure and that the results are accurate' because under your watch you have allowed an environment to persist where at least 15 non-citizens cast ballots in the 2024 election.”

They added, “These continued reports of non-citizens both registering to vote and casting a ballot in elections is unacceptable and as Secretary of State you should be taking every action to ensure the integrity of Michigan elections and build public confidence in them.”

Click here to read the lawmakers' full letter to Benson.

The letter was signed by every member of the Michigan Republican delegation: Reps. Jack Bergman (MI-01), John Moolenaar (MI-02), Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Tim Walberg (MI-05), Tom Barrett (MI-07), Lisa McClain (MI-09), and John James (MI-10).

Click here for Benson’s statement to the Committee on House Administration.

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WATCH: Barrett Leads Oversight Hearing to Ensure Digital VA Systems Help Veterans Get Their Education Benefits

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) today led a joint oversight hearing of the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Technology Modernization and Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity to review the ongoing implementation of the Digital G.I. Bill. Barrett and his colleagues questioned and heard testimony from Department of Veterans Affairs officials, technology vendors, and veteran advocates about the delays and bloated costs of the VA’s digital system for delivering education and housing benefits to veterans.

Barrett highlighted the need to reform the VA’s acquisition process for hiring contractors and securing technology in order to reduce costs and delays. Barrett’s Acquisition Reform and Cost Assessment (ARCA) Act (H.R. 6833) would do just that by restructuring the currently disjointed acquisition and contracting processes under a newly established Office of Acquisition. It would also strengthen internal checks to prevent waste and fraud.

Below are highlights from Barrett’s remarks.

“The Digital G.I. Bill contract was awarded five years ago in 2021. It was expected to cost hundreds of millions of dollars. Today, that cost has more than doubled, with the full life-cycle price now reaching into the billions. Meanwhile, veterans are missing housing payments; we’ve seen delays that have been unnecessary. Schools are being left in the dark without clear guidance. … This is not about a single technical error; it’s an accumulation of multiple errors. It is about leadership decisions [and] contracting strategy, and it ties back to a lack of accountability. The benefits system itself should never become a barrier to the benefits they are set to give.

“Veterans earned the G.I. Bill through years of service and sacrifice. They should not have to re-earn it by waiting in call queues, navigating backlogs, or praying the system works this time, or contacting their member of Congress to work through the problem with them. Today’s hearing is about understanding what went wrong and just as importantly, what must change going forward, because this problem is not unique to the Digital G.I. Bill. Across the entire department, large technology programs continue to struggle under vague requirements, weak oversight, [and] contracts that balloon and cost taxpayers more while delaying the delivery of VA services to our veterans.

“When accountability is unclear, the costs always end up going up. Schedules slip and get delayed. And the veterans and their families these systems are meant to serve pay the price. That is why this hearing is also about acquisition reform. If we don’t fix how these systems are procured and awarded, we’ll repeat the same mistakes at the expense of veterans and taxpayers.”

Click here to watch the full committee hearing.

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Congressman Begich Applauds Passage of the Critical Mineral Dominance Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Feb. 4, 2026 – Today, Congressman Begich (R-AK) applauded the passage of H.R. 4090, the Critical Mineral Dominance Act, landmark legislation he proudly co-sponsored to strengthen America’s national and economic security by unleashing domestic critical mineral production.

“There is a broad and growing recognition across the country that the United States must secure a reliable domestic supply of critical minerals and that starts with producing them here at home,” said Congressman Begich. “For far too long, America has allowed burdensome regulations and regulatory uncertainty to push mining overseas, leaving us dangerously dependent on adversaries like China for the materials that power our economy and defend our nation. This is about national security. The Critical Mineral Dominance Act puts America first by unlocking our vast critical mineral resources and ending our dangerous supply chain dependence on adversarial nations.”

BACKGROUND:

The Critical Mineral Dominance Act supports President Trump’s decisive actions to restore American mineral dominance by codifying key Executive Orders and directing the Department of the Interior (DOI) to prioritize and streamline domestic mining on federal lands. The bill cuts through years of regulatory red tape, reverses Biden-era hostility toward responsible mining, and accelerates permitting for projects critical to U.S. supply chains.

Specifically, the Critical Mineral Dominance Act:

Codifies multiple President Trump Executive Orders aimed at increasing American mineral production.

Directs DOI to streamline permitting and expedite approvals for mining projects on federal lands.

Expands geological mapping to identify previously unknown mineral deposits.

Mandates annual reporting on U.S. reliance on imported minerals and the economic impacts of that dependence.

Congressman Begich serves on the House Committee on Natural Resources and has been a consistent advocate for responsible resource development that strengthens Alaska’s economy and America’s national security.

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Rep. Bera Introduces Bipartisan National Day of Play Resolution to Promote Healthy, Active Communities

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, U.S. Representative Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06) introduced a bipartisan resolution with Representative Mike Flood (NE-01) to designate the first Saturday after the Spring Equinox as the National Day of Play.

National Day of Play is a community-driven effort to encourage device-free, outdoor activities that foster social connection, improve public health, and strengthen neighborhoods. The initiative aims to address rising rates of social isolation and sedentary lifestyles by encouraging Americans to unplug from their devices and reconnect with their communities.

“National Day of Play is a bright spot at a time when so much of what we’re seeing across the country feels heavy and discouraging,” said Representative Bera. “This initiative is about tackling the growing epidemic of social isolation and encouraging our kids and all of us to put down our phones, get outside, and connect with one another. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution with Congressman Flood and I look forward to working together to get it over the finish line.”

"This effort to raise awareness about the importance of play in childhood development has a simple message: It’s time to get kids off screens, get outdoors and to engage in play away from technology,” said Rep. Flood. "Kids age eight on up are using screens over seven hours a day, leaving the next generation more connected to a digital world and less in touch with real people and physical surroundings. Thanks to my colleague Congressman Ami Bera for leading this effort and I look forward to continued bipartisan work in this area."

Read the text of the resolution here.

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Today, the Michigan Republican Congressional Delegation sent a letter to Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, demanding answers on ongoing concerns about election integrity in Michigan.

Recently, Macomb County Clerk Anthony Forlini identified 14 non-citizens who were registered to vote, some of whom had a voting history. This comes in addition to earlier reporting that at least 15 non-citizens were found to have cast ballots in the 2024 election.

"While you admit you are aware of instances of non-citizen voting you continued to erode public confidence by refusing to comply with a lawful request by the Department of Justice to provide them Michigan’s voter registration data to ensure that Michigan’s voter rolls are being properly maintained," the lawmakers write.

"Your refusal to comply with the DOJ’s request and assist in building the public’s confidence in Michigan elections invalidates your statement to the Committee on House Administration that you believe your responsibility is to 'ensure our elections are accessible, safe, secure and that the results are accurate' because under your watch you have allowed an environment to persist where at least 15 non-citizens cast ballots in the 2024 election."

"These continued reports of non-citizens both registering to vote and casting a ballot in elections is unacceptable and as Secretary of State you should be taking every action to ensure the integrity of Michigan elections and build public confidence in them," the lawmakers continue.

The lawmakers' letter to Benson can be found in full here.

The letter was signed by every member of the Michigan Republican Delegation: Reps. Jack Bergman (MI-01), John Moolenaar (MI-02), Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Tim Walberg (MI-05), Tom Barrett (MI-07), Lisa McClain (MI-09), and John James (MI-10).


Beyer Statement On The Washington Post

Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA), who represents a Northern Virginia district in the Washington, D.C. suburbs in the U.S. House, today issued the following statement after the announcement of mass layoffs at the Washington Post, which reportedly included the elimination of substantial portions of the newspaper’s desks covering local and regional news, international news, sports, and the arts, eliminating one third of the Post’s newsroom:

“I love the Washington Post. I have been a subscriber for many years, reading it cover to cover for much of that time. The Post’s coverage has enriched my life, and its reporting has been indispensable to my work as an elected leader and policymaker more times than I can count. I think I speak for many in our region when I say it is heartbreaking to watch Jeff Bezos run the Washington Post into the ground.

“Two new media trends have reshaped national American journalism over the past year. One is the relentless geyser of news driven by an authoritarian president and his administration, which expands consumption of political reporting but also shapes coverage of the economy, global affairs, health, technology, environment, local communities, and so much more. Competitors of the Post, including the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal, have been successful in this environment.

“But this trend has been accompanied by another: a trend of media companies and other key institutions of civil society responding to Donald Trump’s efforts to bully and intimidate them by knuckling under, sucking up, and appeasing him. Over the past year we’ve seen media outlets try to protect the business interests and personal wealth of their billionaire owners by weakening or censoring journalism critical of Trump or his allies. This pervasive cowardice is deeply harmful to our country, and Jeff Bezos has been one of its chief practitioners.

“I don’t know whether investing tens of millions of dollars in a puff piece documentary about the First Lady is a savvy business move, but I know that Bezos’ well publicized meddling in and censorship of the Post’s editorial pages cost the paper hundreds of thousands of subscriptions. I strongly suspect that his decision to gut the Post’s staff rather than investing a tiny fraction of his vast personal wealth into growing it will deepen its financial problems, not improve them. Many readers who lose coverage of local issues and sports teams - the reason many subscribed to begin with – will respond by cancelling their subscriptions.

“The Washington Post is deeply important to our region. Instead of hiding in silence while he slowly kills one of the best newspapers in the country, Jeff Bezos should show the Post’s readers and employees basic respect by taking honest responsibility for his actions. Mr. Bezos has the wealth and resources to make the Post better than it is, but if he is unwilling to invest in his own newsroom or afraid of the risk associated with vibrant, critical journalism, I urge him to consider selling the Washington Post to someone who will be a better steward of this beloved and essential institution.

“My heart goes out to those who are losing their jobs today, along with my thanks for helping keep my constituents informed about their community. Your work has not been in vain.”

Beyer strongly criticized Jeff Bezos’ overhaul of the Washington Post opinion section to espouse libertarian values last year.


Beyer Introduces Legislation to Address Nationwide Nursing Shortage

Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA) today introduced the National Urgent Recruitment for Skilled Employees (NURSE) Visa Act to address the nationwide nursing shortage by making visas available to foreign nurses working in areas where the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has determined there is a nursing workforce shortage.

“Across the country, healthcare facilities are facing staffing struggles because we simply don’t have enough nurses. As our health care system grapples with an increasing number of retiring nurses, the continued ripple effects of the pandemic, and continued high demand for skilled nursing professionals, we are approaching a critical tipping point where acute nurse staffing shortages are driving burnout leading to a compounding cycle,” said Rep. Don Beyer. “My bill, the NURSE Visa Act, would bolster the nursing workforce by allowing qualified foreign nurses to fill these gaps, ensuring that hospitals and clinics remain adequately staffed and American families get the timely, high-quality care they expect and deserve.”

Specifically, the NURSE Visa Act would create 20,000 nonimmigrant visas per fiscal year to employ nurses in areas where the HRSA has determined there is a nursing workforce shortage and where the facility has a provider-to-patient staffing ratio in place.

The United States has long struggled with nursing workforce shortages, which were further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the current domestic training infrastructure will be unable to meet these needs in the near term. According to a Health Workforce Analysis published by the HRSA in December 2025, federal authorities project a shortage of 267,330 full-time registered nurses (RN) in 2028 and a shortage of 204,690 full-time RNs in 2033.


Bishop Votes To Reopen Government & Focus Congress on ICE, Public Safety

WASHINGTON – Yesterday, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) voted to support a combined funding bill which will provide full-year funding for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 to the U.S. Departments of Labor, Education, and other departments and agencies that support affordable housing and health care and advance medical research; workforce training as well as entrepreneurs and small business owners; and America’s military families, national defense, diplomacy, and election security. The bill also froze funding for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) which includes Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

“This funding bill keeps the federal government open and working for the American people for the remainder of the fiscal year so that families have access to safe, reliable, and affordable utilities, health care, housing, roads, railways, and air travel as well as job and entrepreneurial opportunities. This bill will help ensure our military families are cared for, our national defense is strong, and our election security remains vigilant,” said Congressman Bishop. “Hardnosed negotiations over the last year made sure this bill reasserted Congress’s Constitutional powers of the purse, staved off destructive cuts, and eliminated poison pill amendments that would have hurt families.”

Constructive and realistic discussions about the needs of the American people led to improvements in the funding bill that provide $432 billion to make housing more affordable, help families with $170 million for Child Care as well as Head Start, protect $415 million in life-saving medical research at the National Institutes of Health, and deliver a 3.8% pay raise for military personnel – all of which earned bipartisan support in the end.

“I am outraged that ICE is aggressively sweeping up American citizens and law-abiding immigrant families. We need guardrails to protect the public’s safety and make sure immigration enforcement is just, fair, and humane. Rather than providing ICE with a blank check, this bill froze its funding,” added Congressman Bishop. “The ten-day freeze of DHS funds will allow Congress to make a full court press on urgently needed changes to ICE without the distraction of funding the remainder of the government.”

Last month, Congressman Bishop voted against an earlier version of the Homeland Security appropriations bill which would have provided funding for DHS through the end of September. Americans have been horrified by ICE’s behavior in the past months on streets in communities across the country and have demanded dramatic changes before DHS is funded for the full year. Commonsense protections include a mask ban, judicial warrant requirements, independent investigations when agents break the law, use of force protocols, mandatory body cameras, and an end to the storming of sensitive locations like houses of worship, schools, and hospitals.

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What They Are Saying: Local Stakeholders Praise Bresnahan’s Work Delivering Federal Investment to NEPA

WASHINGTON, DC: Community leaders across Northeastern Pennsylvania are applauding U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (PA-08) for securing federal funding in the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026 to support several local projects throughout the region.

The investments, totaling $6,537,584, will advance seven locally driven projects to strengthen public safety, modernize critical infrastructure, and ensure federal dollars are working where they matter most, back home in NEPA.

“This funding is the result of months of work with local leaders and delivering on what our communities have been asking for,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “Instead of Washington deciding what our region needs, these investments were driven by Northeastern Pennsylvania, for Northeastern Pennsylvania. I’m proud to turn priorities into real results to make our communities safer, stronger, and better positioned for the future.”

$500,000 for the Scranton Police Department Equipment and Technology Upgrades

The funding will be used for upgrading equipment and modernizing technology to increase officer safety and the effectiveness of law enforcement operations in the City of Scranton.

“Law enforcement is extremely grateful for this $500,000 investment in equipment and technology upgrades which reflects a commitment to collaboration and modern policing,” said Brian Gallagher, Lackawanna County District Attorney. “It will significantly strengthen law enforcement capabilities in the City of Scranton and across Lackawanna County, ensuring officers have modern tools to respond effectively, share information efficiently, and keep our communities safe.”

“The Scranton Police FOP wants to thank Congressman Bresnahan for fighting to deliver $500,000 in federal funding to the Scranton Police Department,” said Justin Butler, President of Scranton Police FOP. “This investment means safer equipment, better technology, and stronger support for the members of the FOP that wake up every day ready to protect the City of Scranton and its people. Congressman Bresnahan has shown he stands with our officers and their families by backing law enforcement with real resources, not just rhetoric.”

“On behalf of the Scranton City Council, I want to sincerely thank Congressman Bresnahan for securing $500,000 in funding for the Scranton Police Department’s equipment and technology upgrades,” said Tom Schuster, Scranton City Council Chairman. “This support will directly enhance officer safety and strengthen law enforcement operations throughout our city. We are grateful for the Congressman’s continued commitment to our community and his dedication to ensuring that our police department has the resources it needs to serve and protect the residents of Scranton.”

“As Chairman of the Scranton City Council Committee on Public Safety, I want to thank Congressman Rob Bresnahan, Jr., for securing $500,000 for equipment and technology upgrades for the Scranton Police Department,” said Mark McAndrew, Scranton City Councilmember. “This critical investment will enhance officer safety, improve crime prevention efforts, and ensure our police have the modern tools they need to serve and protect our community effectively. I appreciate Congressman Bresnahan’s commitment to public safety and to delivering real resources for the City of Scranton.”

$1,250,000 for the Eastern Pike County Sewer Extension Project

The funds will be used to improve sewer infrastructure and wastewater treatment in Matamoras and Milford Boroughs and Westfall Township.

“The resources being provided by Congressman Bresnahan via Community Project Funding monies will go a long way toward providing long overdue sewer infrastructure improvements to Matamoras and Milford Boroughs and Westfall Township in Pike County,” said Joseph Dooley, Milford Borough Council President. “This joint sewer plan will enable our communities to obtain needed services for our residential and commercial districts while at the same time protecting our environment. Congressman Bresnahan deserves kudos for including our communities in this funding request.”

$1,144,790 for the Kingston Municipal Police Department Equipment and Technology Upgrades

The funding will be used for upgrading equipment and technology to increase officer safety and effectiveness of law enforcement operations in the township of Kingston.

“The Municipality of Kingston and the Kingston Police Department thank Representative Bresnahan for his commitment to public safety and support of law enforcement,” said Sondra Riviello, Municipality of Kingston Administrator. “This much needed funding is vital in improving operational effectiveness, and our ability to protect and serve our community.”

$372,415 for the City of Wilkes-Barre Equipment Upgrades

The funds will be used for the acquisition of new police vehicles and upgrading equipment to increase the effectiveness of law enforcement operations in the City of Wilkes-Barre.

“The City of Wilkes-Barre is very appreciative of Congressman Bresnahan providing $372,415.00 in funding to purchase five new vehicles for our police department,” said Wilkes-Barre Mayor George Brown. “The addition of the new vehicles will greatly assist the city’s police officers who utilize current community policing strategies to target quality of life crimes to build trust and legitimacy with the community, with the aim of preventing crime. Having vehicles to rapidly respond to service calls throughout the city is essential for community policing strategies to work effectively and for public safety.”

$1,020,379 for the Monroe County DA Opioid Crimes Section

The funds will be used for expanded programming in Monroe, Carbon, and Pike Counties aimed at reducing drug use, drug-related crime, and drug-related deaths.

And

$1,250,000 for the Monroe County Wastewater Treatment Project

The funds will be used for the construction of a new wastewater treatment facility, outside of a flood zone, to replace the existing plant which is at the end of its operational capacity.

“The Monroe County Commissioners extend their sincere thanks to Congressman Bresnahan for his leadership and support in securing critical Capital Project funding for Monroe County,” said John Christy, Monroe County Commission Chairman. “Through his efforts, $1.25 million was awarded to support a wastewater infrastructure project in Snydersville, Pennsylvania, and an additional $1,020,379 was secured for the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office to establish an Opioid Crime Section. These investments will strengthen essential county services, enhance public safety, and help reduce the burden on local property taxpayers by leveraging federal resources to meet important community needs.”

$1,000,000 for the Dallas Area Municipal Authority Wastewater Infrastructure Expansion

The funds will be used to repair, construct, and expand wastewater infrastructure of three municipal authorities: Harvey’s Lake, Dallas Area, and Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authorities.

“The Dallas Area Municipal Authority extends its sincerest gratitude to Congressman Bresnahan for his invaluable support in securing critical grant funding to implement major sewer system repairs,” said Jim Reino, Dallas Area Municipal Authority Executive Director. “This investment plays a vital role in ensuring that the DAMA wastewater system continues to meet the rigorous standards set by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Maintaining compliance with state environmental and public health requirements is essential to protecting our community and preserving the integrity of our infrastructure. The Congressman’s advocacy has directly contributed to our ability to move this project forward, strengthening the long‑term reliability and resilience of our wastewater system. We and our ratepayers appreciate his continued commitment to the needs of our region, and look forward to advancing this important work on the benefit of all residents we serve.”

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Buchanan Applauds Signing of Bipartisan Funding Package, Codifying Key Health Care Reforms

“Funding Is Now in Place for Critical National Priorities That Strengthen Our Country and Serve the American People.”

Law Enacts Two Buchanan Health Care Bills to Advance Patient-First Health Care

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Vern Buchanan, Vice Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee and Chairman of the Health Subcommittee, applauded the signing into law of the Consolidated Appropriations Act (H.R. 7148) by President Trump, a bipartisan package that funds critical national priorities and enacts two Buchanan health care bills that expand access to care, improve outcomes and deliver greater certainty for patients and providers.

“Funding is now in place for critical national priorities that strengthen our country and serve the American people,” said Buchanan. “That includes bolstering our national defense and improving access to health care, education and infrastructure.”

“As Chairman of the Ways and Means Health Subcommittee, I’m proud that two of my health care initiatives are now law. By expanding telehealth and extending the Hospital-at-Home program, we are improving access to care, delivering better outcomes and reducing unnecessary costs. I will continue working to advance commonsense, bipartisan solutions that protect taxpayer dollars and make government work better.”

The two Buchanan proposals included in the Consolidated Appropriations Act are:

Permanent Telehealth from Home Act (H.R. 1407): Extends Buchanan’s Permanent Telehealth from Home reforms by removing outdated geographic restrictions and expanding originating sites under Medicare, ensuring continued access to telehealth services for seniors through December 31, 2027.

Hospital Inpatient Services Modernization Act (H.R. 4313): Extends the successful Hospital-at-Home program through September 30, 2030, allowing eligible patients to safely receive hospital-level care at home while improving outcomes and lowering costs.

The law also supports Buchanan’s forward-looking health agenda by:

Encouraging early detection and prevention, including expanded coverage pathways for innovative cancer and cognitive screening tools

Supporting value-based and alternative payment models that reward high-quality, coordinated care

Promoting the responsible use of wearable medical technologies to empower patients and improve clinical decision-making

Continuing funding for community health centers and critical health services, particularly in rural and underserved areas

Strengthening protections for patients while increasing accountability and transparency across the health care system

Buchanan has had four initiatives signed by President Bush, five by President Obama, 19 by President Biden and 24 by President Trump.

Beyond health care, the package funds core government operations, invests in national defense and infrastructure, supports law enforcement and servicemembers, and eliminates wasteful programs keeping spending below projected levels under the current continuing resolution.

In addition to being the Vice Chairman and most senior Republican on the powerful U.S. House Ways and Means Committee, Buchanan is also the Chairman of the Health Subcommittee, which has broad jurisdiction over traditional Medicare, the Medicare prescription drug benefit program and Medicare Advantage.

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Bynum Secures Over $6 Million for Projects in Oregon’s Fifth District

February 4, 2026

Yesterday, Rep. Janelle Bynum (OR-05) secured over $6 million in federal funding for affordable housing, community infrastructure, and child care initiatives across Oregon’s Fifth Congressional District. In July, Congresswoman Bynum fought on behalf of her constituents for over $14 million in Community Project Funding requests to be included in the draft Fiscal Year 2026 government funding bills. Yesterday, funding for six of those projects was included in the Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Funding Package that was signed into law.

“I’m excited to deliver over $6 million in federal funding for Oregon’s Fifth District,” said Rep. Bynum. “These dollars go exactly where families need them: early learning, community gathering spaces, safer streets, stronger infrastructure, and affordable homes. From Gladstone to Redmond, these projects will make daily life better across the district. I’m committed to bringing funding home that makes Oregonians’ lives better.”

The passage of this legislation will bring the full amount of money Congresswoman Bynum has secured for Oregon’s Fifth Congressional District through Community Project Funding to $14,725,250.

The projects receiving funding include:

$1,500,000 for Gladstone Early Childhood Center

Recipient Name: City of Gladstone

Project Purpose: This project would fund capital construction for the Gladstone Early Learning building, a critical project that will bring much-needed early childhood education and care services to the community. It will provide full day early childhood education for up to 64 children through Head Start and Early Head Start.

$1,200,000 for Happy Valley Community Center

Recipient Name: City of Happy Valley

Project Purpose: The project would fund development of a 65,000 square foot community center to serve athletic and community needs not otherwise available in or near the city.

$850,000 for Kellogg Creek OR-99E Community Project (Kellogg Project)

Recipient Name: City of Milwaukie

Project Purpose: Funds will be used for Kellogg Project bid documentation and long-lead construction material procurement required for replacement of the vulnerable 177-year-old transportation structure over Kellogg Creek. This will efficiently address public safety, earthquake vulnerability, maintenance concerns, remove pollutants, and reduce flooding.

$2,000,000 for Cinder Hollow Affordable Housing Project

Recipient Name: City of Redmond

Project Purpose: Funds will be used to support the development of at least 30 owner-occupied homes, all affordable at or below 80% AMI, through development of required on- and off-site infrastructure. The site is currently owned by the City, with RootedHomes Community Land Trust selected as the master developer of housing.

$850,000 for Roundabout at Shaff and Wilco Road

Recipient Name: City of Stayton

Project Purpose: Funds will be used to construct a roundabout necessary to facilitate private investment and economic development on approximately 80 acres in West Stayton.

$250,000 for OR 126: 35th Street Signal and Pedestrian Improvements (Redmond)

Recipient Name: Oregon Department of Transportation

Project Purpose: This project would construct a new signal, pedestrian and bicycle crossings and ADA features at the intersection of OR 126 and 35th Street in Redmond, where a safe crossing between residential areas to the north and recreational facilities to the south is urgently needed.

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Issues: Congress


Casten, Smith Introduce Bill to Mitigate Climate Risk in US Financial System

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representative Sean Casten (D-IL-06) and Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) introduced the Addressing Climate Financial Risk Act, legislation to improve the ability of federal regulators to understand and mitigate risks from climate change within our financial system.

Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of wildfires, flooding, droughts, and other natural disasters and extreme weather events. The damage and risks generated by these events – in addition to changes needed to transition to a cleaner economy – threaten to severely disrupt real estate values across the country, reshape entire sectors of the economy, and make homeowners’ insurance increasingly unaffordable. At the same time, the Trump Administration is dismantling the progress made under the Biden Administration, which means our regulators are less informed, equipped, and prepared to deal with current and future climate-driven financial crises. Climate change threatens the stability of the U.S. financial system, which is why it is so important to ensure financial regulators approach it in a comprehensive way.

“Federal regulators must be able to fully assess and plan to combat all possible systemic risks to our financial system. That includes the very real risks posed by climate change,” said Rep. Sean Casten. “We’ve already seen financial devastation caused by hurricanes reaching the inland areas of North Carolina and Tennessee, wildfires in California, and flooding in Texas. Even under optimistic estimates, many homes in coastal Florida will likely be uninhabitable before their mortgages are paid off. We must act swiftly to safeguard our financial system against these rapidly accelerating climate risks.”

“Climate change is leading to increased financial risk, with communities across the country suffering billions of dollars in losses from climate and weather disasters,” said Senator Smith. “This is having a direct impact on rising prices and making life even more unaffordable. In Minnesota, we’ve seen dramatic increases in home insurance costs fueled by climate change and severe weather, putting homeownership further out of reach for many Americans. This legislation would help address climate-related risks to the financial system, including insurance, by requiring financial regulators to better monitor for and mitigate these crises.”

In the House, the bill is cosponsored by Representatives Kathy Castor, Ted Lieu, Kevin Mullin, Suzanne Bonamici, Yassamin Ansari, Jared Huffman, Melanie Stansbury, Nydia Velázquez, Julia Brownley, Dwight Evans, Dave Min, and Dan Goldman.

In the Senate, the bill is cosponsored by Senators Merkley, Warren, Heinrich, Van Hollen, and Padilla.

Specifically, the Addressing Climate Financial Risk Act would:

Re-establish two climate-focused committees within the Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC), which will advise and inform the Council on best practices in identifying and mitigating climate financial risk. FSOC is composed of the heads of our banking, housing, securities, and insurance regulators and has the authority to address risks that threaten the stability of the U.S. financial system.

Require FSOC to publish an updated report on climate financial risk, following the Biden Administration’s important 2021 report.

Direct banking regulators to update non-binding supervisory guidance to include climate financial risk, which will help banks with more than $50 billion in assets better manage the short and long-term risks associated with climate change.

Codify FSOC’s 2023 proposal to include climate financial risk in its analysis under FSOC’s process for designating firms as “systemically important”, allowing FSOC to use this underutilized tool to address threats posed by climate change.

Direct the Federal Insurance Office (FIO) to publish an updated report on climate financial risk and continue its climate-related data call for 2023, 2024, and onward. For calendar years 2018-2022, FIO conducted a first-of-its-kind data collection to better understand how climate change was affecting homeowners’ insurance affordability and availability.

Express the sense of Congress that our financial regulators should rejoin international climate organizations, including the Network for Greening the Financial System (NGFS).

Text of the legislation can be found here.

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Opening statement of Chairman Smith at hearing on international religious freedomDefending Religious Freedom Around the World

The following are excerpts of Chairman Chris Smith’s (R-NJ) opening statement at the House Foreign Affairs Africa and Western Hemisphere Subcommittees’ February 4th joint hearing, entitled “Defending Religious Freedom Around the World”:

Congratulations and special thanks to Ambassador Sam Brownback and Dr. Katrina Lantos Swett, co-chairs of the International Religious Freedom Summit just concluded here in Washington, for an extraordinarily powerful, comprehensive call to action for global religious liberty.

With incisive commentary and analysis from a broad swath of faith leaders, we have all been challenged to do more to mitigate, and God-willing, end religious persecution.

In the United States, religious freedom is often called America’s “first freedom,” since it is listed first in our Bill of Rights.

There, our Founders wrote: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.”

The Establishment Clause and the Free Exercise Clause protect the right of conscience of every American—that inviolable domain in the heart of every human being.

This, of course, flows directly downstream from Jefferson’s stirring words in the Declaration of Independence: that “all men are created equal, and are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights.”

Religious freedom is not an “American” right alone, but one that belongs to every human being on earth.

Yet, all around the world today, religious persecution is festering and exploding. What has been unconscionable for decades and centuries has gotten worse.

Billions of human beings, made in the image of God, live in countries where their God-given right to freely exercise their religion is restricted—many to the point of incarceration, torture and execution.

According to Open Doors’ 2025 World Watch List, “more than 380 million Christians suffer high levels of persecution and discrimination for their faith.”

Anti-Semitism is exploding—not just in the Middle East, but throughout Western democracies—including and especially in the United States.

Brutal dictatorships—like China, Russia, Nicaragua, North Korea, Belarus and Cuba—are terrified of letting their people practice their faith.

In many other parts of the world, authorities heavily restrict independent religious activity that does not accord with strict Islamic law—for example, in Afghanistan, in Iran, in Pakistan, in many parts of Nigeria—which have death penalty blasphemy laws, and unfortunately, increasingly in Syria, where under the new authorities, Christians, Kurds, Yazidis, Druze, and Alawites are facing increasing religious violence.

Anything outside of the ubiquitous state—especially the search for deeper spiritual truths that speak directly to the human soul—is automatically a threat to these regimes.

Let’s begin with China, where people of all faiths are subject to deplorable treatment by the Chinese Communist Party.

As we speak, Uyghur Muslims in China are suffering a genocide. Today, they are still brutally repressed: many are shipped off to labor camps while their mosques are destroyed and their children forced to speak Mandarin instead of Uyghur.

When unleashing terror on the Uyghurs, Xi Jinping said to show no mercy—and despite the pervasive use of torture, murder and rape, much of the world looks askance and kowtows to Beijing.

In May of last year, as part of it ongoing Sinicization campaign, China issued a decree, effectively banning foreign missionaries from evangelizing within China. This includes bringing Bibles into the country.

And just months ago, the Chinese Communist Party began a massive new crackdown on Chinese Christians. Today, we have testifying before us, Grace Jin Drexel, the daughter of Pastor Ezra Jin, who is one of dozens of church leaders who were arrested and are now detained.

On a trip to China in 1994, I had the awesome privilege of meeting with Bishop Su Zhimin. Bishop Su was a leader of the underground Catholic Church.

As we spoke and then prayed, the Bishop prayed for his persecutors, he prayed for the misguided leaders of the Chinese Communist Party. Bishop Su’s body bore witness to the brutality of China’s Communist Party.

He was beaten, starved, and tortured for this faith and spent some 40 years in prison.

Yet, he prayed not just for the persecuted church, but for the conversion of those who hate, torture and kill. His witness and his faith absolutely amazed me. Love those who hate you, as Christ did from the cross.

Unfortunately, only a few years later, Bishop Su was arrested again and disappeared. He has not been heard from since.

Xi Jinping is crushing people of faith with torture, jailing, rape and murder. We must act.

We must also remember the persecuted in North Korea—another of the world’s worst violators of religious freedom. There, the constitution states that “religion must not be used as a pretext…for harming the State.” All of life, public and private, is subjugated to North Korean state ideology.

Escapees from the DPRK say unequivocally that religion is simply not tolerated. An estimated 30,000 Christians are held in political prison camps. They are subject to “the harshest forms of torture and imprisonment,” according to USCIRF reporting. Even possessing a Bible can result in execution.

We must also absolutely be monitoring Sudan. I recently chaired a hearing on Sudan, which exposed the religiously-motivated killings and atrocities facing too many caught in the middle of civil war.

On the topic of Nigeria, President Trump’s Country of Particular Concern (CPC) designation in October was necessary, long-overdue, and bold.

In his first administration, with the strong backing of his Ambassador-at-Large San Brownback, who testified at my 2020 hearing, President Trump recognized that the mass killings by Boko Haram, ISIS West Africa, and armed Fulani terrorists against Christians in the Middle Belt—which were clearly motivated by ethnic and religious animus—meant Nigeria met the criteria for a CPC designation, and was so designated.

Tragically and inexplicably, President Biden and Secretary Blinken took Nigeria off the list—effectively giving the Nigerian government a free pass for enabling religious violence.

Genocide Watch has called Nigeria “a killing field of defenseless Christians.”

That wrong in our foreign policy has been righted with the President’s CPC designation. We commend and thank him for that action.

Now, while the iron is hot, we must urge the government of Nigeria to protect the rights of persecuted Christians and non-radical Muslims. The CPC designation is a phenomenal first step, but in statute, it is accompanied by 15 different policy tools—including sanctions and other economic penalties that can and must employed to improve the situation on the ground.

We cannot take our eye off the ball. Christians in the Middle Belt are still being massacred. The government of Nigeria has taken small steps, but a culture of denial by Nigerian officials persists.

I am deeply concerned that Nigeria has hired the K-Street lobbying firm DCI to the tune of $9 million (that’s $750,000 a month), and a Nigerian billionaire has entered into a $120,000-a-month contract with Valcour to influence Congress and the Executive Branch.

Elsewhere in Africa, Tanzania has seen concerning backsliding on religious freedom.

Many Catholic clergy, including Father Charles Kitima, were assaulted or abducted after criticizing injustices committed by President Samia Suluhu’s regime. Opposition leader Tundu Lissu remains imprisoned, former Tanzanian ambassador Humphrey Polepole is still missing after a violent abduction, and as many as hundreds, possibly thousands of Tanzanians have vanished without a trace following acts of dissent.

More than 2,000 church branches linked to Bishop Josephat Gwajima’s Glory of Christ Church of Tanzania were closed after he spoke against those abductions and extrajudicial killings. Congregants were often beaten, Sunday after Sunday, by authorities for attempting to gather for worship.

If the international community stood in solidarity with these religious leaders sooner, the October 29 massacre might have been prevented. This massacre included the killings of street orphans, pregnant women, infants, as well as violations of religious freedom in Catholic hospitals, where authorities pressured nuns to move wounded protesters into mortuaries. Nuns courageously resisted.

I am very pleased that former Congressman Mark Walker is now Principal Advisor on Global Religious Freedom at the State Department. I wish him all the best as he speedily gets to work on confronting religious persecution, exposing the worst human rights violators, and advocating for people of faith all over the globe. America’s leadership is absolutely essential.

Now that Principal Advisor Walker is in the building, I have every confidence the Department will release the 2025 Annual Report on International Religious Freedom, as well as the long-awaited CPC designations.

Countries whose governments engage in—or tolerate—severe, systemic, and egregious violations of international religious freedom against their own people merit extra scrutiny and diplomatic pressure from the United States.

Following the President’s CPC designation for Nigeria, it’s time for the Department of State to issue the full list of CPC designations.

As Vice President Vance said last year, “Part of our religious freedom initiatives means recognizing in our foreign policy the difference between regimes that respect religious freedom and those that do not.”

More than ever before, vigorous U.S. leadership and diplomacy are needed to address religious freedom violations globally—and end persecution of Christians and all other vulnerable religious groups.

This committee and I are committed to working with the Administration to make this a reality.

I want to thank all the witnesses for being here today to share their expertise and to shine a light on the most egregious violations of religious freedom being committed today.

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Washington Examiner article on Smith's work to advance religious freedom in Nigeria'Trump sends troops to Nigeria after Christmas Day operation'

By Emily Hallas

Published February 4, 2026 at 9:22 am

The Pentagon revealed on Tuesday that a team of U.S. military forces is in Nigeria to combat terrorism in the African country.

The development comes after President Donald Trump authorized strikes last December against ISIS terrorists in northwest Nigeria, amid concerns that the group, and other radicalized Islamist militias such as Boko Haram, are killing thousands of Christians. General Dagvin R.M. Anderson, head of the U.S. military’s Africa Command AFRICOM, said this week that a small team of soldiers was deployed after he met with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, and the countries agreed to enhance coordination to fight terrorist forces.

“That has led to increased collaboration between our nations to include a small U.S. team that brings some unique capabilities from the United States,” Anderson told reporters.

A former U.S. official said the U.S. team appeared to be heavily involved in intelligence gathering and enabling Nigerian forces to strike terrorist-affiliated groups, according to Reuters. It remains unclear when the team was deployed. The Washington Examiner reached out to the Pentagon for further details.

Last December, Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) said Trump was crafting a sanctions plan targeting Nigeria, which he described as “the focal point of the most brutal and murderous anti-Christian persecution in the world.” Smith, who chairs the House Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, and Human Rights, has been one of the loudest voices in the House speaking out against terrorism in Nigeria, urging the Trump administration to advance religious freedom in the country.

The same month, Trump ordered strikes on Christmas Day against the Islamic State group’s terrorists in Nigeria. The military action came after Mike Waltz, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, labeled the massacre of thousands of Christians in the country as a “genocide” in November.


WATCH: 'Lawmakers Highlight Growing Religious Persecution Worldwide' - EWTN News Nightly

Attacks on religious groups continue to rise in the United States and around the world, prompting renewed efforts to raise public awareness and strengthen the international religious freedom movement. As lawmakers and groups take action to raise awareness, a hearing was held by Congressman Chris Smith, a longtime religious freedom advocate. Capitol Hill correspondent Erik Rosales reports.

The full interview can be viewed by clicking here.

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WATCH: 'Rep. Chris Smith on Global Religious Freedom and Christian Persecution Concerns'

Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee, sat down with Tony Perkins on Washington Watch with Tony Perkins to discuss his recent congressional hearing, entitled “Defending Religious Freedom Around the World,” the U.S. deployment of troops to Nigeria, and addressing Christian persecution in Nigeria and China.

The full interview can be viewed by clicking here.

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