WATCH: Nunn Announces $2.5M Investment for New Atlantic Child Care Center

ATLANTIC, IA — Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) joined local leaders, families, and community partners in Atlantic to announce a $2.5 million federal investment to expand child care capacity, support working parents, and drive long-term economic growth across Cass County. B-roll from the visit and announcement is available here and below.

“This $2.5 million investment is a win for families, workers, and small businesses—and a powerful example of what happens when a community comes together to invest in its future,” said Rep. Nunn. “Expanding access to high-quality child care means parents can stay in the workforce, employers can grow with confidence, and Atlantic can continue building on its momentum.”

During the visit, Rep. Nunn toured Vision Atlantic’s current facilities and the future site of the new child development center, underscoring how the project will help address Cass County’s child care shortage while strengthening the region’s economic foundation for years to come.

Once complete, the new center is expected to:

Serve up to 300 children ages 0–7, including new preschool classrooms

Create approximately 100 local jobs

Support greater workforce participation for parents

Increase the local tax base by more than $48 million

B-roll from the visit is available here and photos are available here.

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Pappas Secures Update on NH Full-Service VA Hospital

Today at a House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Full Committee Oversight Hearing, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), a member of the committee and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity, pushed for answers from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Doug Collins on delivering a full-service VA hospital to New Hampshire, VA’s failure to communicate to veterans and families about months-long delays in payments of education benefits, and the implementation of the bipartisan VA Home Loan Program Reform Act.

An Executive Order issued by President Trump on May 9th instructed VA to begin a feasibility study on expanding services to support a full-service medical center in New Hampshire within 30 days and submit an action plan to the President within 180 days. Pappas called for an update on the feasibility study and action plan, saying,“During your visit, we talked about the ongoing action plan and feasibility study to talk about delivering a full-service VA hospital for the veterans of New Hampshire. We’re the only state in the lower 48 without a full-service hospital, a designation that we lost over 20 years ago. It [the action plan] was due to the President on November 5th of last year, and I’m really interested to know if that plan was delivered to the President and where things stand.”

Secretary Collins confirmed,“That has been delivered to the White House. It is at the White House now for the final processing and we hope to have an answer out of that in the very near future.”

For months, VA failed to notify 75,000 veterans, their families, and survivors about delays in paying required education benefits on time. Pappas asked for accountability and an explanation from the Secretary, saying, “It was a month and a half where veterans were in the dark. Congress was also left in the dark. We had letters that went unanswered… It’s inexcusable for veterans to not have the basic information on where payments stood… I’d like you to address that.”

Secretary Collins confirmed that the issue has been fixed, saying, “At this point that has been transferred over and most are getting their almost same-day on GI benefits. They’re getting the GI bill is working.”

Last year, VA ended the Veterans Affairs Servicing Purchase (VASP) program - the only VA program that guaranteed foreclosure avoidance for veterans experiencing severe financial hardship and helped them stay in their homes. Pappas pushed back on this decision repeatedly to VA leadership, as well as helped pass and get signed into law the VA Home Loan Program Reform Act to address the gap left. Pappas pushed for an update on the implementation of the new VA partial claim program, saying, “This is an issue I raised with you in your last appearance before this committee around VASP and the partial claims program. You said at that time, ‘I think the first step is that Congress needs to act upon this.’ So we took your advice. We passed a bipartisan bill but it's been six months since the Partial Claims Program was signed into law – hasn’t been stood up yet. I got veterans asking when they can get relief. Can you give us an answer on when we will see that program put into place?”

Secretary Collins confirmed,“Yes. That is being done now… It should be done shortly. We did have to integrate it in with the current system that we had. You’ll be getting an answer on that very shortly.”

Background:

New Hampshire is the only state in the contiguous 48 states to not have a dedicated, full-service VA hospital. Following the issuance of the Executive Order, Pappas led the New Hampshire delegation in a letter calling on VA Secretary Doug Collins to seriously and fully follow through on the feasibility study and action plan, with the goal of establishing a full-service VA hospital in New Hampshire. He also secured a commitment from VA Secretary Collins at a House Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing to engage with New Hampshire veterans and stakeholders as the Department conducts the study and develops its action plan. In June, Pappas introduced legislation that would require VA to operate at least one full-service VA hospital in New Hampshire.

Pappas has sent multiple letters, with House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Ranking Member Mark Takano (CA-39) and Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (CT) on VA’s failure to pay required education benefits on time to over 75,000 veterans and their families and survivors. Secretary Collins failed to respond to previous letters sent on October 9 and November 14 until December 15 evening, missing multiple deadlines to provide the requested information. VA acknowledged during a December 5 briefing that it never informed Congress of the issue impacting 75,000 beneficiaries, which started in August. VA is aware of the failed distribution of checks that is still affecting the finances of thousands, but deemed it unnecessary to communicate with the veterans, families, and survivors impacted or notify Congress and the public. Pappas pressed VA leadership on this issue at the EO Subcommittee hearing on December 16.


House Republicans Reject Pettersen's Amendment to Protect Voting Rights in Colorado

WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) released the following statement after House Rules Committee Republicans unanimously opposed her amendment to protect voting rights in Colorado. Pettersen’s amendment would ensure the Trump-backed voter suppression bill would not disenfranchise millions of eligible voters. As currently written, the SAVE Act could kick 21 million people off voter rolls, disproportionately impacting younger voters, voters of color, and millions of women whose married names aren’t on their birth certificates or passports.

Today the House passed the deeply flawed voter suppression bill following a series of alarming moves by Donald Trump to ban mail-in-ballot systems, despite no public evidence of widespread voter fraud. In addition, one of his top allies, Steve Bannon, has called for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to “surround the polls” as an intimidation tactic.

“Donald Trump — the man who incited a violent insurrection after losing a free and fair election — wants to rig the election before it’s even happened. He’s doing everything possible to stop people from showing up on election day — including making it harder for women to stay registered to vote and even threatening to deploy ICE agents to the polls to intimidate registered, legal voters. Trump sees the writing on the wall: the American people are fed up with a corrupt president who will throw us under the bus in order to enrich himself, his family, and his billionaire buddies.

“Colorado has one of the most accessible and most secure voting systems in the country. I’m disappointed — but not surprised — that Republicans unanimously opposed my amendment to make sure millions aren’t kicked off voter rolls. But we’re not going to stop fighting to protect free and fair elections so every person can have their voice heard at the ballot box. The future of our democracy depends on it.”

Specifically, Pettersen’s amendment:

Would have delayed the implementation of the bill until all state election officials certify that this bill will not reduce voting access.

The so-called “SAVE” Act:

Creates a barrier for women to vote who have changed their name.

Roughly 69 million women in the US, which accounts for about 25% of the US citizen voting age population, have IDs that do not match their birth certificates. This is because they have changed their last name after getting married.

Requiring in-person voter registration, in addition to more paperwork, will make voting exceptionally hard for working women and women with caregiving responsibilities.

61% of caregivers in the United States are women, and women spend more time engaging in intensive caregiving tasks compared to men. So, more women would have to navigate their care duties with registering to vote in-person.


Congresswoman Luz Rivas Votes NO on GOP Takeover of Free and Fair Elections

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) released the following statement after voting NO on Republicans’ bill that disenfranchises millions of Americans from having their voices heard on election day:

“I voted against Donald Trump and Republicans’ power grab to commandeer free and fair elections. Instead of working with Democrats on solutions to address the affordability crisis, Republicans are continuing to push false narratives about voter fraud to place barriers between voters and the ballot box. These barriers disproportionately block millions of women – including many across the San Fernando Valley – from participating in elections because they may have a different name than the one on their birth certificate.

“This Republican bill is voter intimidation and voter suppression at its core. I will continue fighting Donald Trump and Republicans’ attempts to impede on anyone’s access to vote.”

Background:

Republicans’ bill – S. 1383, the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) America Act – would:

Require voters to provide documentary proof of citizenship (DPOC), in person at an election office, each time they want to register to vote or update their registration.

Create serious risks to voters’ privacy and security through expansive data-sharing requirements, including the submission of voter registration lists to the Department of Homeland Security.

Effectively dismantle widely used and trusted voter registration methods, including mail-in registration, online voter registration, and voter registration drives.

The SAVE America Act passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 218-213. Congresswoman Rivas joined 212 of her House Democratic colleagues in voting against the bill. Congresswoman previously voted against the SAVE Act on April 10, 2025.

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Rep. Kelly introduces two bills to hold gun industry accountable

WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) introduced two bicameral bills to investigate marketing practices of the gun industry and to implement consumer safety standards for guns. After years of evading commonsense consumer practices, the gun industry will be held to the same safety and marketing standards as other industries under Rep. Kelly’s Responsible Firearms Marketing Act and Firearm Safety Act.

“For far too long, the gun lobby has held politicians in its clutches, but I’ve taken on the gun lobby—and won,” said Rep. Kelly. “I’m taking the fight to the gun industry’s pocketbooks because they should not be able to profit off gun violence and death. The gun industry advertises the number one killer of children and teenagers—to children and teenagers themselves. It’s sick and twisted. Guns should be sold responsibly with the basic safety standards expected for such deadly weapons.”

The Responsible Firearms Marketing Act, cosponsored by U.S. Senator Dick Blumenthal (D-CT) and 14 U.S. Representatives, would direct the Federal Trade Commission to launch an investigation into the advertising and marketing practices of gun manufacturers.

“Deceptive firearms marketing exploits and fuels gun violence — and must be stopped. Our goal is to hold accountable gun manufacturers who prey on vulnerable consumers to fatten their profits. Turning a blind eye to these dishonest advertisements and promotional campaigns will continue to threaten public safety,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Wrongdoers must be held accountable. Our legislation – along with the FTC’s enforcement – will prevent the industry from peddling these dangerous weapons of war by misleading buyers.”

The investigation would focus on advertisements that appeal to children, imply or encourage illegal use of weapons, and sell assault weapons commonly used in mass shootings. Semiautomatic assault weapons are often the gun of choice for mass shooters due to its rapid-fire rate, causing maximum carnage.

Some examples of the gun industry’s marketing and advertising practices include:

Wee 1 Tactical: This Illinois-headquartered gun manufacturer advertised the “JR-15,” a child-sized AR-15 semiautomatic rifle. It included the tagline, “Get ‘em One Like Yours,” and the gun was decorated with cartoon skulls and crossbones.

Daniel Defense: Daniel Defense posted a child holding an assault rifle with the caption, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it,” invoking a Bible verse. Days later, a gunman armed with a Daniel Defense AR-15 killed 21 people and injured 18 others at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas.

Smith & Wesson: A gunman killed seven people and injured 48 more at a Fourth of July parade in Highland Park, Illinois. He used a Smith & Wesson M&P15 semiautomatic rifle, abbreviated for “Military and Police.” Smith & Wesson advertisements often feature military associations aimed at young male civilians, promising they will “Experience More Adrenaline.”

Mean Arms: This manufacturer’s magazine lock, a device that locks a magazine onto a semiautomatic rifle, was sold with removal instructions, allowing for higher magazine capacity. The shooter who killed ten people in a racist attack in Buffalo, New York, wrote in his manifesto how he easily removed the lock to add 30-round magazines, which are illegal in New York.

The Firearm Safety Act, cosponsored by U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and 31 U.S. Representatives, would remove the exclusion of pistols, revolvers, and other guns from the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s definition of “consumer product.” This would allow the Commission to issue safety standards such as warning labels on guns and ammunition and recalls on defective guns. There’s been multiple incidents of the SIG Sauer P320 pistol firing without the trigger being pulled, yet SIG Sauer refuses to recall its flagship gun.

“Every year 500 Americans lose their lives because of a defective firearm yet there are no comprehensive safety regulations to recall weapons with manufacturing defects or known hazards,” said Senator Booker. “Decades ago, the gun lobby ensured that firearms became the only consumer product in America exempt from federal health and safety regulations. Today, they are the leading cause of death for children and teens. This is unacceptable, and Congress has a responsibility to put lives ahead of special interests and close this loophole so that guns are treated like all other consumer products.”

Currently, CPSC has jurisdiction over more than 15,000 consumer products, including toys, coffee, lawn mowers — or any product that poses “unreasonable risks of serious injury or death.” Yet, guns and ammunition are not regulated, despite more than 4.6 million children living in homes with an unsecured gun.

Both bills are endorsed by Brady United, Everytown, GIFFORDS, Newtown Action Alliance, and Community Justice.

“To end the gun violence epidemic in our country, Congress must make meaningful reforms to rein in the profit-driven gun industry that has armed this crisis without accountability,” said Kris Brown, President of Brady United. “The Responsible Firearms Marketing Act and the Firearm Safety Act will jump start this change by banning the gun industry’s predatory marketing practices towards children and teens and by allowing the Consumer Product Safety Commission to set commonsense safety standards for firearm sales. Brady is grateful to Representative Kelly for introducing these life-saving bills and for her long-standing dedication to freeing America from gun violence.”

"Just like other industries, the gun industry should be held accountable for how it markets products to the public, and especially to children,” said Emma Brown, Executive Director at GIFFORDS. “Rep. Kelly’s bills seek to put commonsense safeguards in place to keep Americans, and especially children, safe. GIFFORDS urges Congress to use its power to check the gun industry and keep consumers safe by passing these bills."

“Gun manufacturers have shown us exactly who they are: companies willing to target children with deceptive ads for weapons of war to secure the next generation of customers. At a time when firearms are the number one killer of American children and teens, this is immoral and dangerous,” said Po Murray, Chairwoman of Newtown Action Alliance. “As a neighbor of the gunman who killed 26 children and educators with an AR-15 at Sandy Hook Elementary School—and someone who has witnessed the devastation caused when lethal weapons are easily accessible and aggressively marketed—I know these reforms are long overdue. Congress must act swiftly and decisively to protect our children.”


Congresswoman Ross Votes Against GOP Voter Suppression Bill

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) voted against Congressional Republicans’ so-called “SAVE America Act,” harmful legislation that would disenfranchise millions of eligible voters. In particular, 69 million women who have legally changed their names would be forced to confront serious red tape and logistical hurdles in order to make their voice heard at the ballot box. In North Carolina, more than 2 million women do not have birth certificates that match their legal name. Furthermore, under this legislation, states would be required to turn over voter rolls to the federal government, including providing sensitive information to the Department of Homeland Security.

“In North Carolina and across the country, we are seeing unprecedented attacks on the sacred right to vote,” said Congresswoman Ross. “Donald Trump’s policies are so unpopular and causing so much pain that Republicans can clearly see the writing on the wall. They know they can’t win fairly in November, so they are trying to make it as hard as possible to vote. This bill is not about election security at all. It’s about voter suppression, and it will hurt women, rural, and working voters most.”

This backwards legislation would require a proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote in federal elections and requires registering in-person. A valid form of ID includes:

REAL ID if it indicates the applicant is a citizen. Only 5 states offer REAL IDs that indicate citizenship.

U.S. Passport. Half of American citizens do not have a passport.

Official U.S. military ID card with U.S. military record of service showing the applicant was born in the US.

Valid government-issued photo ID showing the applicant was born in the U.S. It hasn’t been specified what ID would possibly qualify if not a passport or REAL ID.

Valid government-issued photo ID that does not provide proof of citizenship in conjunction with other documentation proving citizenship. The names must match. If they do not match, a voter would have to submit additional paperwork to register to vote.

Congresswoman Ross voted against a previous version of the SAVE Act in April 2025.

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Salazar, Díaz-Balart, and Giménez Demand Strong Enforcement of U.S. Sanctions Against Cuban Regime

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar, joined by Representatives Mario Díaz-Balart and Carlos Giménez, sent a joint letter to the U.S. Departments of the Treasury and Commerce urging immediate action to revoke licenses granted to U.S. companies operating with the Cuban dictatorship.

In the letter, the three Members of Congress raise serious concerns that licenses issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) and the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) continue to authorize transactions that provide financial or material benefit to regime-controlled enterprises in Cuba, directly undermining U.S. sanctions law and Congressional intent under the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity (LIBERTAD) Act of 1996.

“U.S. law is clear: sanctions exist to deny economic support to the Cuban dictatorship until real democratic change occurs,” said Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar. “That is why we are urging the Administration to review and revoke any licenses that directly or indirectly benefit regime-controlled entities, strengthen scrutiny of future licenses, and fully enforce the LIBERTAD Act. Every dollar denied to the regime brings the Cuban people one step closer to freedom.”

“President Trump’s decisive actions have brought us closer than ever to the collapse of the Communist regime in Cuba,” said Congressman Carlos Gimenez, the only Cuban-born Member of Congress.“We’re asking to shutdown every source of income the regime uses to repress the Cuban people. Close the valve of free oil from Venezuela, close the valve of flight and remittances, and close the valve of these businesses shipping luxury products from the US to Cuba, which undermines the intent of Congress and President Trump’s common-sense policy against the regime. God willing, the Castro regime will not survive these four years of President Donald J. Trump!”

Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart said, "I said it during President Trump’s first term, and I will say it again: I am convinced the anti-American dictatorships in Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua will not survive another term of bold and decisive American leadership under President Trump. The Cuban regime is weaker today than it has ever been. History makes clear that there is only one approach that works against brutal dictatorships: zero tolerance and maximum pressure. That means enforcing U.S. law, which prohibits all businesses from dealing with the Cuban regime and cutting off every dollar that props up a State Sponsor of Terrorism, as Congress mandated in the LIBERTAD Act of 1996."

Title I of the LIBERTAD Act establishes that U.S. sanctions are designed to deny economic support to the Cuban dictatorship until concrete progress is made toward democracy, the rule of law, and fundamental freedoms. Sections 102 and 103 explicitly prohibit direct or indirect assistance to state-owned enterprises that sustain repression on the island.

Despite these mandates, South Florida Members of Congress warn that current licensing practices risk providing the regime with financial resources, material support, or dual-use capabilities that can be diverted for internal repression or intelligence operations, directly contradicting Section 205 of the Act, which requires maintaining sanctions until a transition government is in place.

In their letter, Reps. Salazar, Díaz-Balart, and Giménez urge Treasury and Commerce to:

Conduct a comprehensive review of all active licenses involving the Government of Cuba or state-owned enterprises;

Revoke any licenses that directly or indirectly benefit regime-controlled entities;

Strengthen scrutiny of future licensing requests related to Cuba; and

Issue updated public guidance clarifying that licenses supporting the Cuban regime violate existing U.S. law.

The Members emphasized that strict enforcement of sanctions is essential to protecting U.S. national security, upholding the rule of law, and standing with the Cuban people in their fight for freedom.

Background

The Cuban dictatorship is in its final hour. Economic collapse and mounting repression have exposed a regime that survives only by force, and sustained pressure will hasten its inevitable fall. During the Biden Administration, the regime exploited weak enforcement to infiltrate the Cuban exile community and profit off hardworking families through sanctioned-evasion schemes. Those days are over. The Trump Administration has been unequivocal: there will be no appeasement, and the United States will use every lawful tool available to help liberate the Cuban people.

In August 2025, Congresswoman Salazar sent a letter to the Administration urging stronger enforcement of U.S. sanctions against Cuba, warning that certain U.S.-based companies were exploiting loopholes to evade the embargo and funnel money to the regime. In that letter, she called on the Departments of State and Treasury to investigate and take action against businesses engaging in illicit tourism services, logistics operations, and other commercial schemes designed to benefit the Cuban dictatorship in violation of U.S. law.

Building on those concerns, Congresswoman Salazar has also pressed the Administration publicly through her work on the House Financial Services Committee. During a committee hearing, she called on the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) to investigate companies allegedly evading Cuba sanctions and warned that every dollar that bypasses U.S. law strengthens the regime’s machinery of repression while undermining U.S. foreign policy and national security interests.


ICYMI: New Dems Hold Press Conference to Announce Affordability Agenda

Washington, D.C. – ICYMI: Today, Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) joined New Democrat Coalition leaders in holding a press conference to announce the New Dem Affordability Agenda, a policy roadmap to help make life more affordable across the country by focusing on lowering five core costs for hardworking Americans: health care, housing, energy, family care, and household essentials like groceries.

New Dem Leadership Member Andrea Salinas (OR-06) joined New Democrat Coalition Chair Brad Schneider (IL-10), Vice Chair for Policy Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), and Economic Growth & Cost of Living Working Group Chair Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), as well as Freshman Leadership Representative Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08) and New Dem Leadership Member Greg Stanton (AZ-04).

Click here to view the full Affordability Agenda, and here to watch the Affordability Agenda Launch Video.

You can read a full transcript of the press conference remarks as prepared for delivery below:

Vice Chair for Policy Nikki Budzinski:

Thank you everyone. I'm Nikki Budzinski, Vice Chair of Policy for New Dems.

We know why we're here today – to share how we plan to address the single most important issue Americans face: affordability.

Costs are simply too high. While the President has said affordability is a hoax, working families are lying awake at night, forced to make impossible choices. And let’s not forget, he promised on day one to lower prices. So where are we now?

Groceries cost nearly 20% more than they did in January 2022. Utility costs are adding to that pressure, with electricity prices up nearly 7% last year and natural gas posting double-digit gains.

And then there’s housing. The National Association of Homebuilders found that home prices were 55% higher in the third quarter of 2025 compared to the first quarter of 2020. And to make matters worse, House Republicans are missing in action. When grocery prices are higher than ever, they’re cutting SNAP. When healthcare costs continue to rise, they’re refusing to extend ACA tax credits and gutting Medicaid.

There's a vacuum – a vacuum of urgency to fight for working people, to advance real solutions to bring down costs. And New Dems are ready to fill it.

Over the past year, we've been listening and building – releasing frameworks on health care, housing affordability, and tax policy, and taking New Dems on the Road.

Because if we're going to solve these problems, we need to be in our communities, listening to folks confronting them each and every day – at the grocery store, paying the electricity bill, sitting in the doctor's office.

Our agenda has five pillars, focused on the five biggest pressures on people's wallets.

You'll hear shortly from Representative Houlahan, who leads our Economic Growth and Cost of Living Working Group. Within that group, Representative Horsford focused on taxes, Representative McBride on the care economy, and Representative Beyer on trade and tariffs. I'd also like to recognize Health Care Working Group Chair Terri Sewell, Housing Task Force Chair Emilia Sykes, Environment, Climate, and Clean Energy Working Group Chair Scott Peters, and Rural Revitalization Working Group Chair Kim Schrier.

Each of these members brought their expertise and lived experience to shape this agenda.

So here's what we're going to do. We'll lower grocery prices by taking on tariff policies that drive up costs and supporting more competition in the grocery industry. We'll cut red tape and modernize permitting to build four million new homes over the next decade. We'll finally create a national paid family and medical leave program. On health care, we won't just extend ACA tax credits – we'll protect patients from surprise medical bills and stop aggressive medical debt collection.

These are common-sense steps that deliver real relief for Americans. But they're not just common sense – they're bold. And that's exactly what we need right now. It's what the American people are asking for. Not the status quo. Not just getting by. But the American Dream. And I'm confident this agenda can bring that dream within reach for millions of Americans.

Now I'd like to introduce Representative Houlahan, our Economic Growth and Cost of Living Working Group Chair, to dive into the specifics.

Thank you.

Working Group Chair Chrissy Houlahan:

Thank you, Rep. Budzinski, and good morning to you all.

I’m proud to stand here with my New Dem colleagues to roll out our Affordability Agenda — because affordability isn’t an abstract economic concept. It’s the daily stress families feel when they’re forced to make impossible choices: whether to pay the rent or the medical bill, whether to skip a prescription, whether to put groceries on one credit card and car payments on another, hoping we can catch up later.

Well, hope is not a strategy.

Despite all the promises to lower prices “on day one” and “end inflation,” President Trump and his Administration are doing nothing to address the real affordability crises people are living through. Instead, they have doubled down on policies that protect monopolies, reward the wealthiest, and actively drive up costs for everyone else.

New Dems believe that failure is unacceptable — and unnecessary.

As Chair of the New Dem Economic Growth and Cost of Living Working Group, I’m proud to introduce a strategic agenda that takes on the real drivers of high costs — not with slogans or distractions, but with solutions.

Our Affordability Agenda focuses on lowering the five biggest costs families face: health care, housing, energy, family care, and everyday essentials like groceries.

This agenda is grounded in a simple idea: affordability is about dignity — and government should help markets work better for people, not rig them for the powerful.

Here’s what that looks like:

On groceries and household essentials, while Republicans double down on Trump’s tariff policies that raise prices for consumers, New Dems are focused on rolling those costs back, restoring trade certainty, promoting competition, and supporting small producers — so families aren’t paying more just because corporations face less oversight.

On health care, instead of cutting Medicaid and undermining the ACA, we can lower monthly costs by extending ACA tax credits, capping prescription drug prices, protecting patients from surprise bills, and stopping aggressive medical debt collection — because illness shouldn’t mean financial ruin.

On housing, Republicans talk about affordability while blocking supply. New Dems are serious about building — cutting red tape, modernizing permitting and zoning, and constructing four million new homes over the next decade so working families can actually afford to live where opportunity exists.

On energy, rather than creating uncertainty and bottlenecks or cancelling critical energy production because “windmills are ugly,” we will lower costs by building more capacity — faster — across the board. That means permitting reform, a stronger grid, energy abundance, and efficiency investments that reduce utility bills for families.

And for families, affordability means time and security. That’s why we’re advancing a national paid family and medical leave program, expanding access to child care and pre-K, and strengthening the care workforce — instead of forcing families to choose between a paycheck and caring for a loved one.

This agenda reflects who New Dems are and how we approach the challenges facing this country: pragmatic, pro-growth, and focused on solutions that can pass and make a real difference.

Affordability is a promise we owe the American people — and with this agenda, we’re committed to keeping it.

Thank you. And now I’ll turn it over to Rep. Schneider.

Chair Brad Schneider:

Thank you all for being here today. I’m Brad Schneider, Chair of the 115-member strong New Democrat Coalition in the 119th Congress.

As I like to say, New Dems are not just the Majority Makers, our members make up a majority of the Democratic caucus.

I’d like to personally thank our Policy Vice Chair Nikki Budzinski and Economic Growth & Cost of Living Working Group Chair Chrissy Houlahan for their leadership on this issue, and for being the driving forces behind forming the pragmatic, short- and long-term affordability solutions in our plan. This plan could not come at a more important moment.

Over the past year, life has only gotten more expensive for the American people, the American dream is further out of reach, and for many people out of sight. Meanwhile, the President and Congressional Republicans have not only failed to lower costs — at every turn, they’ve made it worse.

The American people are tired of broken promises. They want a real plan with real solutions.

That's why I’m incredibly proud of our New Dem Affordability Agenda. It truly represents the best ideas from our 115 Members to tackle the cost-of-living crisis and start to really make life more affordable for everyday Americans.

Beside Reps. Budzinski and Houlahan, I’d like to thank our Working Group Leaders, Task Force Chairs, and Members of New Dem Leadership, including Representatives Sarah McBride, Kristen McDonald Rivet, Greg Stanton, Andrea Salinas, who are here with us today, as well as Representatives Don Beyer, Steven Horsford, Terri Sewell, Emilia Sykes, and Scott Peters.

This Agenda is the culmination of all our collective efforts, and the embodiment of what the New Dems stand for. You see, to the New Dems, “affordability” isn’t a buzzword, or the “issue of the month.”

We believe affordability and lowering costs are an essential part of the American dream. Affordability means not just getting by, but getting ahead. Building a better future for yourself, your family, and your community.

New Dems have always fought for economic growth and empowerment, putting working Americans at the center of everything we do.

While the President jerks from one ill-conceived policy scheme to the next, all to try to deflect from the harm being inflicted on working families, New Dems are doing what we always do: putting forward well thought out, pragmatic policies that will actually lower costs, and working with anyone and everyone in Congress to improve the lives of hardworking Americans.

Not only will this Affordability Agenda guide our work through the rest of this year, but be the foundation of our efforts in the majority, after we take back the House this fall.


Rep. Salinas Denounces Trump Tariff Effects on Oregon Economy on House Floor

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Click here to watch Rep. Salinas’ full remarks.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) delivered remarks on the House Floor opposing President Trump’s reckless tariffs while highlighting the harm they are causing to families and businesses across Oregon’s Sixth Congressional District. Rep. Salinas spoke about how these trade policies have left wine producers in the Willamette Valley facing increased costs and decreased export opportunities. She urged her colleagues to vote to end Trump’s tariffs on Canada to protect families and businesses across the U.S.

A transcript of Salinas’ remarks is available below:

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to oppose President Trump’s disastrous tariffs and shine a light on the real harm they are causing families and businesses in my district.

My district is home to some of the best wineries in the world, and Canada is our single largest foreign market.

But after Trump imposed his tariffs, Canada responded with their own tariffs that lasted for months.

Many Canadians continue to boycott our products, all while our growers and producers pay the price.

They are facing higher costs, shrinking export opportunities, and real economic pain for real families.

In October, wine sales to Canada were down 84% when compared to last year.

If we fail to act, this Congress will be complicit in enabling President Trump to destroy the hard-fought relationships my community has brokered.

Wineries in my district built their relationships across the border over decades, and in one day President Trump destroyed them.

These tariffs hurt American farmers and American consumers alike.

We must act and protect the American people from the volatile whims of a petulant President.

I urge an aye vote.

Thank you, and I yield back.

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Salinas, Moolenaar, Tokuda, Moylan Lead Bipartisan Effort to Save Rural Hospitals and Clinics

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06), alongside Congressman John Moolenaar (MI-02), Congresswoman Jill Tokuda (HI-02), and Congressman James Moylan (Guam-AL) introduced a bipartisan bill to strengthen the nation’s rural health care infrastructure and ease financial pressures faced by hundreds of rural hospitals across the country. The bipartisan Rural Health Care Facilities Revitalization Act authorizes rural health facilities to use federal USDA funds to refinance debt, update technology, and support operating expenses to ensure their long-term financial stability.

“Oregonians living in rural areas deserve to have health care in their communities. They shouldn’t have to drive to an urban center for medical care or worry about delivering a baby in the car,” said Rep. Salinas. “When a rural hospital struggles or closes, the entire community feels it. Our bipartisan bill helps rural providers stay afloat so they can keep providing care to the people who live nearby. It would secure federal funding for rural facilities to upgrade outdated equipment and improve operations so providers can keep their doors open and continue delivering lifesaving care to those who rely on them.”

“Residents of rural communities in Michigan deserve to have continued access to high quality care at their local health care facilities,” said Rep. Moolenaar. “The financial burdens experienced by rural hospitals risks residents losing access to life saving care. The Rural Health Care Facilities Revitalization Act allows hospitals to improve access with federal dollars to support the changing needs of patients including upgrading tele-health services. I am proud to join this bipartisan effort to sustain access to health care services in our communities and ensure these hospitals can expand valuable services to rural residents.”

“As an island state, Hawaiʻi faces uniquely high costs, aging hospital infrastructure, and serious challenges in maintaining access to care for our rural and remote communities. Rural health care facilities across my district are struggling to modernize, stay financially solvent, and recruit and retain health care workers,” said Rep. Jill Tokuda. “By making sure rural facilities have what they need to upgrade telehealth capacity, address mounting debt, and invest in modern medical equipment, we can make rural health care more resilient, reliable, and sustainable for the long term. That’s why I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Rural Health Care Facilities Revitalization Act—legislation that recognizes the financial realities facing rural providers and gives them the tools they need to remain open and accessible for patients.”

“For island communities like Guam, access to health care comes with unique challenges—geographic isolation, higher supply costs, workforce shortages, and limited capacity,” said Congressman Moylan. “Our hospitals and clinics operate without the margins many mainland systems rely on, yet they remain the frontline for our families. The Rural Health Care Facilities Revitalization Act gives smaller and remote health systems the flexibility to modernize and strengthen care. I am proud to support this legislation to help ensure our people can access quality care right here at home.”

Since 2010, nearly 190 rural hospitals nationwide have closed their doors, forcing rural residents to travel about twenty miles further on average for common health services. Among remaining rural hospitals, financial challenges have led to the elimination of essential departments and services, including chemotherapy and obstetrics. There is growing concern that even more rural health facilities will be forced to shut down.

The Rural Health Care Facilities Revitalization Act would address this concern by allowing rural health care facilities, including hospitals, mobile health care clinics, home health agencies, and long-term care facilities, to use Community Facility Loans or loan guarantees under the U.S. Department of Agriculture to:

Refinance debt, which will help facilities manage their financial obligations;

Update telehealth services, medical equipment, and online databases, which will ensure these facilities can provide up-to-date services with digital technology;

Support ancillary needs, including operating expenses and reserve funds, which will help position rural health care facilities for long-term stability; and

Allow the Secretary of Agriculture to waive credit requirements for facilities in financial distress or vulnerable areas.

The legislation would ensure that rural health care facilities have the necessary support to keep their doors open and continue providing life-saving and timely care to thousands of people.

“The National Rural Health Association applauds Representatives Salinas, Moolenaar, Tokuda, and Moylan’s work on the Rural Health Care Facilities Revitalization Act,” said Alan Morgan, Chief Executive Officer of the National Rural Health Association. “Rural health facilities are critical community institutions that help keep care local; however, they often operate on thin or negative margins. This legislation will ensure that these facilities can access federal assistance to improve their financial position and make needed health IT updates. We thank the Representatives for their leadership on protecting rural access to care.”

Full text of the Rural Health Care Facilities Revitalization Act can be found by clicking here.

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Scalise: House Republicans Vote to Protect the Sanctity of Your Vote

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) joined Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.), House Administration Committee Chairman Bryan Steil (R-Wis.), Congressman Chip Roy (R-Texas), and election integrity advocates in a press conference celebrating House passage of the SAVE America Act.

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Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise's full remarks.


Scalise: SAVE America Act Strengthens American Democracy

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) spoke on the House floor to highlight the SAVE America Act and how it will protect the integrity of American elections and prevent voter fraud.

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Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise's full remarks.


Rep. Sewell Votes NO on Trump's Election Takeover Bill

Washington D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Elections for the Committee on House Administration, voted against the so-called "SAVE America Act." The voter suppression bill would block millions of eligible Americans from casting their ballots by imposing costly and burdensome barriers to voter registration. Republicans' push to restrict voting access comes days after President Trump threatened a federal "takeover" of U.S. elections.

Watch on YouTube here.

"President Trump pledged to take over our elections, and this week, House Republicans are helping him do it," said Rep. Sewell. "The so-called 'SAVE America Act' would block millions of eligible American citizens from voting, force states to turn over sensitive voter data to Kristi Noem's DHS, and even threaten local election workers with jail time."

"Republicans know that their policies are failing," continued Sewell. "Prices are going up, jobs are going away, health care is being slashed, and Americans are struggling to make ends meet. Republicans know that they cannot win on the merits, so rather than changing their policies, they are seeking to change the rules."

"John Lewis was not bludgeoned on a bridge in my hometown for the Republicans and Donald Trump to take these freedoms away from us."

The SAVE America Act would require American citizens to show documents like a passport or birth certificate to register to vote. However, roughly half of Americans do not have valid passports—which currently cost $165 to obtain—and roughly 70 million married women have last names that do not match their birth certificate.

The bill also requires states to turn over sensitive voter data to Secretary Kristi Noem's Department of Homeland Security. To date, dozens of states have refused to do so over concerns of election interference. In January, the Trump Administration admitted that DOGE officials within the Social Security Administration agreed to turn over sensitive personal data to an advocacy group seeking to “find evidence of voter fraud and to overturn election results in certain States.”

Rep. Sewell has led the fight against the SAVE America Act as the top Democrat on the Elections Subcommittee. On Tuesday night, during debate in the House Rules Committee, Rep. Sewell proposed three amendments which were unanimously rejected by committee Republicans. Watch her testimony here.

Her amendments would have:

Expanded the forms of documentation that a person can use to verify their identity to include a valid lease or mortgage document, a bank statement, a utility bill, a health insurance card, and a identification card issued by the Supplemental Nutrition program;

Ensured that no voter is removed from the rolls without proper evidence. The amendment also ensures that voters are notified no later than 48 hours from the time of their removal, and they are given an opportunity to contest their removal from the voter rolls; and

Protected local election administrators' ability to sue for being removed for partisan or political reasons.

Last year, the Republican effort to pass a previous version of the SAVE America Act failed in the face of nationwide public opposition.

A daughter of Selma, Rep. Sewell is the author and lead sponsor of the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, which would restore and modernize the protections of the 1965 Voting Rights Act.

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Rep. Simpson Votes to Require Photo ID and Proof of Citizenship to Vote in U.S. Elections

WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of the SAVE America Act, a bill that would build on the House-passed Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, by mandating a valid photo ID for all federal elections and requiring proof of citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections.

“All Americans want safe and secure elections,” said Rep. Simpson, a cosponsor of this legislation. “Requiring photo identification and verifying United States citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections is not a controversial issue. In fact, it is a common-sense approach to strengthening current election laws. The SAVE America Act is the right solution to ensure that only American citizens decide American elections.”

Background:

83% of Americans are in favor of photo ID requirements, including 95% of Republicans and 71% of Democrats.

H.R. 22, the SAVE Act, passed the House on April 10th, 2025.

The SAVE America Act requires any voter to show a photo ID when they cast a ballot. Absentee and mail-in voters can attach a copy of their ID to their mail-in ballot.

The SAVE America Act requires states to check for noncitizens and other ineligible registrants on their voter rolls at least once a month.

The bipartisan measure was approved with a vote of 218-213.


Bipartisan Majority in House Defies Trump, Passes Stanton-Led Resolution Ending Trump’s Tariffs on Canada

WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, the House passed H.J.Res. 72, a resolution U.S. Representative Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.) led to terminate Trump’s national emergency used to impose tariffs on Canada. Six Republicans crossed the aisle to vote with Democrats, a bipartisan rebuke of the President’s chaotic trade war.

Stanton will move next to pass H.J.Res. 73, a resolution terminating Trump’s tariffs on Mexico, Arizona and America’s largest trading partner.

Stanton spoke on the House floor ahead of the vote on H. J. Res. 72, saying, “Congress has the power of the purse, not the President. It’s time we take our power back from an executive that is out of control.”

Video of his remarks is available HERE.

The passage of the resolution comes a day after three Republicans joined every Democrat to defeat a procedural move by Speaker Mike Johnson and House Republicans that would’ve blocked consideration of resolutions to end the president’s emergency tariff powers under IEEPA until July 31. They had used a similar procedural trick to block consideration until this month.


Stefanik Urges Federal Investigation into NYC Department of Health's Alleged Taxpayer-Funded 'Working Group' that Accused Israel of 'Genocide'

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (NY-21) sent a letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy Jr. urging an immediate federal investigation into reports alleging that employees of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYC Health) used taxpayer-funded time, personnel, and facilities to hold an antisemitic "Global Oppression and Public Health Working Group" meeting.

Stefanik additionally requested that HHS and the Office of Inspector General:

1. Open a formal investigation into whether federally funded resources, including staff time, equipment, or facilities, were used to organize, host, or promote the reported Global Oppression and Public Health Working Group meeting at NYC Health;

2. Assess compliance with Title VI and related HHS civil rights requirements, including whether the activity created or contributed to a hostile environment for Jewish employees or members of the public;

3. Evaluate whether senior NYC Health leadership or external political officials reviewed or approved the activity, and whether proper grant administration and internal controls were followed;

4. Determine whether corrective action, enforcement measures, or recovery of federal funds are appropriate.

Stefanik has repeatedly condemned the spike in violence against Jews in New York City where antisemitic hate crimes are up 182% just one month into Mayor Zohran Mamdani's administration.


MI Congresswoman Haley Stevens Votes to Repeal Trump’s Tariffs on Canada

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (D-MI) voted to repeal Trump’s reckless tariffs on Canada. The resolution passed 219-211 and now heads to the Senate. Similar measures have received bipartisan approval from the U.S. Senate.

In response to this watershed rebuke of Trump’s reckless tariffs, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (D-MI) released the following statement:

“Donald Trump’s chaotic tariffs are hurting our manufacturers and making life more expensive for Michigan families. I was proud to stand up for Michigan and rein in Trump’s erratic policies. Michigan workers and businesses shouldn’t be forced to pay the price for his reckless, shoot-from-the-hip tariffs.”

Stevens has been leading the charge in Congress to fight back against Trump’s tariffs and has been getting results. She introduced the No Tariffs on Groceries Act to lower costs for Michiganders and prevent the President from unilaterally putting tariffs on food and other agricultural products. Just weeks after Stevens’ push, the Trump Administration announced it would back down on price hikes at the checkout counter.

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Rep. Sykes Statement on Vote to End Emergency Tariffs on Canada

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) voted for H.J. Res. 72 to terminate President Trump’s national emergency declaration used to impose sweeping tariffs on Canada.

The resolution would block the president’s order imposing tariffs on most Canadian imports under a claimed national emergency.

“Canada is one of our closest allies and one of Ohio’s largest trading partners,” said Rep. Sykes. “These tariffs act like a national sales tax on American families and create uncertainty for businesses across Northeast Ohio. We can address border security and drug trafficking without launching an economic fight with our allies. This vote is about protecting Ohio jobs, lowering costs, and restoring accountability.”

The resolution passed the House and now moves to the Senate for consideration.


Rep. Sykes Unveils Affordability Agenda to Address the Cost of Living Crisis

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13), in collaboration with the New Democrat Coalition, released her Affordability Agenda, a policy roadmap to help make life more affordable for Ohio’s 13th Congressional District’s constituents by focusing on lowering the five core costs that are too high for hardworking people: health care, housing, energy, family care, and household essentials like groceries.

Despite promising to lower prices “on day one” and “end inflation,” President Trump and Republicans in Congress have failed to lower the cost of living as their billionaire-first agenda makes life more expensive across the board for hardworking Americans.

With the Affordability Agenda, Rep. Sykes is offering a better path forward to lower everyday costs in the short- and long-term by rolling back harmful policies pushed by Republicans in Washington, promoting competition and supporting small businesses to boost consumer choice, and breaking down regulatory barriers across the government to meet the needs of everyday Americans.

“Every day I hear from my constituents that the cost of living is too high and only getting worse. Our economy is unaffordable for working people, and it's putting the American dream out of reach. I know folks in Ohio’s 13th Congressional District are looking for real solutions, not lip service from politicians in Washington,” said Rep. Sykes.

“That’s what this Affordability Agenda is all about: laying out a strategy to quickly and legitimately lower the costs that are stressing working people, from housing, health care, gas, and groceries.

“It’s time to renew the promise of affordability and the American dream. Let’s get to work.”

Affordability Agenda Toplines

Groceries & Household Essentials

Restore certainty by rolling back Trump’s tariffs and advancing smarter, durable trade policies.

Support small producers and crack down on price-gouging corporations to increase competition in the food marketplace.

Lower internet bills by restarting the Affordable Connectivity Program.

Increase the minimum wage and ensure workers have a seat at the table.

Health Care

Reduce monthly costs by extending ACA tax credits and expanding access to prescription price caps.

Protect patients from surprise medical bills and aggressive debt collection.

Expand access to care by fully funding Medicaid and strengthening Medicare’s guaranteed benefits.

Increase competition and transparency while cracking down on fraud and abuse.

Housing

Cut red tape and update permitting and zoning to build four million homes in the next decade.

Level the playing field by eliminating unfair tax breaks to private equity and large investors.

Utilize innovative construction technologies to accelerate home production.

Build more affordable homes by increasing Low-Income Housing Tax Credit allocations and community benefits.

Energy

Reform permitting rules to make it faster and cheaper to build energy transmission and generation infrastructure.

Ensure energy is available and abundant by establishing a level playing field for all forms of energy.

Reallocate electric grid costs to protect consumers from price hikes due to manufacturing and data center development.

Invest in energy efficiency and home heating & cooling to lower residential energy costs.

Families


Rep. Sykes Votes No on Bill That Would Make It Harder for Americans to Vote

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) voted no on the SAVE America Act (H.R. 7296), warning it would make it harder for eligible Americans to register and vote, especially women and seniors.

The bill would require proof of U.S. citizenship to register, impose stricter photo ID rules, and limit how voters can update their registration. Many would have to register or make changes in person at county boards of elections. Ohio has only one per county.

Rep. Sykes, vice chair of the Democratic Women’s Caucus, said millions of women could be blocked from voting because their names don’t exactly match their birth certificates or citizenship papers. Older voters and people with disabilities would face extra hurdles, with few clear accommodations.

“The SAVE America Act doesn’t protect democracy. It shrinks it. It tells millions of women, older Americans, and people with disabilities that their voices do not matter. Every eligible voter deserves a clear, fair path to the ballot, not political games dressed up as security,” Rep. Sykes said.

The bill would also allow lawsuits and criminal penalties against election officials and roll back parts of the Help America Vote Act, which already ensures voter eligibility without unnecessary barriers.

The legislation passed the House and now moves to the Senate for consideration.


Congresswoman Tenney Applauds House Passage of SAVE America Act to Strengthen Election Integrity

Washington, DC — Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today highlighted the House passage of the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) America Act, commonsense legislation to strengthen the integrity of federal elections by ensuring that only United States citizens vote.

The House passed the legislation by a vote of 218–213.

The SAVE America Act modernizes federal election law by requiring documentary proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections, mandating that states remove non-citizens from voter rolls, and establishing uniform photo identification requirements for voting in federal contests. The legislation also enhances accountability by empowering citizens to bring civil actions when election officials fail to uphold citizenship verification requirements and by establishing penalties for election officials who knowingly register non-citizens to vote. This bill reflects growing bipartisan concern about election integrity and the need to restore public confidence in the democratic process.

“As Chair of the Election Integrity Caucus, I have been clear that protecting the right to vote begins with safeguarding the integrity of our elections,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “The SAVE America Act reinforces a simple principle most Americans agree on: voting in federal elections is a right reserved for American citizens. This legislation strengthens transparency, restores confidence in our election system, and helps ensure that every lawful vote is counted and protected from dilution.”

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Congresswoman Tenney Hosts IRS Webinar to Help Constituents Maximize Benefits Under Trump Tax Cuts

Washington, DC — Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) is reminding constituents that her office will host a Zoom webinar with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) on February 25 at 2:00 PM to help individuals and families prepare for the 2026 tax filing season and understand how to benefit from new tax relief created under the Trump tax cuts.

The webinar will cover best practices for filing taxes and provide clear guidance on key provisions now available to taxpayers, including new deductions for eligible workers who earn tips or overtime pay, enhanced relief for seniors, and policies that support small businesses and working families. These reforms are designed to reward hard work, reduce the tax burden on families, and ensure taxpayers can keep more of what they earn. IRS experts will walk through how these provisions work and explain the steps filers should take to claim the benefits available this year.

“Taxpayers deserve clear information and practical guidance when it comes to filing their taxes,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “The Trump tax cuts delivered real relief for working families, seniors, and small businesses. This webinar will help constituents understand the changes, file with confidence, and make sure they are getting every dollar they are entitled to under the law.”

To RSVP and receive the Zoom webinar link, click here.

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Thompson Introduces Bill to Rename Post Office after Marine Corps Veteran, Longtime Letter Carrier

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15) introduced legislation today to designate the Mahaffey Post Office in Mahaffey, Pennsylvania, as the “Robert Allen Bishop, Sr. Post Office.” U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) introduced the companion bill in the Senate.

Robert Allen Bishop, Sr. was a Marine Corps veteran, a longtime letter carrier in Mahaffey, and a staple in the local community.

Born in 1936, Bishop graduated from Punxsutawney Area High School in 1954 and enlisted in the Marine Corps at 22. He served in the Marines for six years and completed an overseas tour in Japan, obtaining the rank of Corporal and earning the Expert Rifleman’s badge.

After completing his service requirements, Bishop returned to Pennsylvania. He co-owned and operated the Lightner & Bishop General Store with his wife, Jean. The store was an economic hub for the community, often used as a convenience store, restaurant, and bank. Today, the building that housed the general store is home to the Mahaffey Post Office.

Bishop was a mail carrier for the U.S. Postal Service in Mahaffey, Pennsylvania, for 36 years. During his tenure, he was awarded the Million Mile Award, which is given to letter carriers who drive one million miles or for 30 years with no preventable accidents. Additionally, he served with the Mahaffey Volunteer Fire Department and Ambulance as an EMT, despite being a below-knee amputee for most of his life.

Bishop passed away on June 15, 2023, after distinguished service to his country and community.

“Mr. Bishop dedicated his life to service, as a Marine and a dedicated member of the community,” Rep. Thompson said. “Renaming the Mahaffey Post Office after him will be a testament to his selfless nature, and a leading example for generations to come.”

“Mr. Bishop was one of the very best of us whose story shows years of hard work in his community and serving our country,” Senator Fetterman said. “I’m proud to join my colleagues on this effort to recognize and celebrate someone who exemplified all the true values of what makes our commonwealth so great.”

“Renaming this post office in honor of Mr. Robert Allen Bishop Sr. is a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to service; both to his country and his community,” PA State Rep. Mike Armanini said. “From his role as a volunteer EMT and local business owner to his decades as a mail carrier, Bob embodied the values of hard work, integrity, and compassion. His story reminds us that true heroes often serve quietly, making a lasting impact on the lives of those around them.”

“Bob was the best of us. Whether he was serving his country as a Marine or serving his community in Mahaffey, he did so selflessly and with a commitment to helping others,” said Bishop's granddaughter, Bailey Bishop. “We can think of no better way to honor his legacy than by naming the post office building—formerly the site of our family store—after him. The Bishop family is deeply thankful to Representative Thompson and his staff for leading this effort, and we look forward to its passage."

"Robert 'Bob' Bishop Sr. represented the very best of Mahaffey. He dedicated his life to serving others, whether through the postal service, the volunteer fire department, or simply caring for neighbors along his route,” said Nichole Parrish, Bell Township Secretary and Treasurer. “Renaming the Mahaffey Post office in his honor is a fitting tribute to a man whose service, kindness, and commitment left a lasting mark on our community."

Read the full text here.


Congresswoman Norma Torres Fights to Defend the Right to Vote, Introduces Amendments to Protect Voters from SAVE Act Restrictions

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Norma Torres (CA-35) has been leading the fight all week to defend Americans’ fundamental right to vote and speaking out in hearings, taking to the House floor, and introducing three key amendments to the Republican-led SAVE America Act to stop provisions that would disenfranchise millions of eligible voters. From challenging the bill’s false claims about election security to offering concrete fixes to protect mail ballot access and prevent costly proof-of-citizenship requirements, Rep. Torres has used every tool available to push back against Republican attempts to rig our democracy and undermine free and fair elections.

The SAVE America Act, championed by House Republicans, would impose sweeping new proof of citizenship requirements that voting rights advocates warn would create unnecessary barriers to the ballot box and suppress the vote of eligible American citizens. In response, Congresswoman Torres introduced amendments to protect mail-in voters, ensure no American pays to exercise their right to vote, and shield donor states from punitive mandates.

“Republicans can call it whatever they want, but the SAVE Act is about making it harder for eligible Americans to vote,” said Congresswoman Torres. “If you truly care about election integrity, you should also care about protecting access to the ballot. My amendments would preserve fairness, access, and make sure no one is priced out of their constitutional rights.”

Torres Amendments to the SAVE Act include:

1. Mail Ballot Amendment

Strikes the provision that creates burdensome identification requirements for mail-in ballots, protecting voters who rely on vote-by-mail systems that are already secure and widely used across the country.

2. Cost Amendment

Clarifies that obtaining any form of acceptable proof of citizenship under the bill must come at no cost to U.S. citizens. The amendment would either waive passport fees or require the federal government to provide an alternative form of identification that proves citizenship at no charge.

3. Donor State Amendment

Exempts donor states from the bill’s new and burdensome requirements, preventing states that already contribute more federal revenue than they receive from being penalized with costly, unfunded mandates.

“States that already carry more than their fair share should not be saddled with additional bureaucratic burdens,” Torres said. “This amendment protects hardworking taxpayers from another unfunded mandate disguised as election reform.”

Congresswoman Torres emphasized that there is no evidence of widespread non-citizen voting and that election officials already verify voter eligibility using state and federal data systems.

“This is about power,” Torres concluded. “When politicians cannot win voters over, they try to silence them. I will continue fighting to protect every American’s right to participate in our democracy.”

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Congressman Valadao Secures Transition Period for California's New MCO Tax

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) released the following statement in response to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announcement of final rulemaking to implement the Managed Care Organization (MCO) tax provision established in the Working Families Tax Cut (H.R. 1). The final rule provides a six-month transition period for California's MCO tax to comply with the rulemaking on provider tax uniformity.

“After months of conversations with CMS Administrator Dr. Oz—and inviting him to the Central Valley to see our healthcare challenges firsthand—I’m encouraged that CMS has agreed to provide a six-month transition period before implementing California’s new Managed Care Organization (MCO) tax rule,” said Congressman Valadao. “The MCO tax was created to increase California's contributions to the Medicaid program, but for years the state has misused the revenue to support other government expenses instead of strengthening the healthcare system. California needs time to adjust its budget priorities, and this transition period maintains a $2.3 billion funding stream while giving the state necessary stability, according to CMS analysis. This is an important step, and I look forward to continuing to partner with CMS as they work to thoughtfully implement the reforms included in H.R. 1."

Background:

Federal law requires states to share responsibility with the federal government for financing Medicaid, including by contributing a portion of the non-federal share of program costs. The Managed Care Organization (MCO) tax allows states like California to draw down additional funds to help support their state programs. This rule revises how states may structure provider taxes but provides California with a six-month on-ramp to comply with the final rule, which requires the tax rate on Medicaid and non-Medicaid businesses to be uniform. The final rule's extension of the transition deadline from July 1, 2026 to December 31, 2026 preserves $2.3 billion in federal revenue for the state of California. This amount is based on a CMS estimate of the federal revenue attributable to extending the state's current provider tax structure through the end of 2026.

States, including California, use the MCO tax to draw down matching federal funds to help support their Medicaid programs. California's Medicaid program, known as Medi-Cal, faces significant state-level challenges, including low reimbursement rates for providers. Compounding these issues, the state has mismanaged the MCO tax to supplement California's General Fund instead of strengthening care for Medicaid patients and supporting the providers who serve them.

Read more about the rule here.


Rep. Vasquez Votes to Protect American Citizens’ Voting Rights from Government Overreach

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On February 11, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) released this statement following his vote to protect American citizens’ voting rights:

“Let’s be clear about what this is — an attempt to disenfranchise eligible American voters and prevent them from casting a ballot. It’s an attack on the free and fair elections that underpin our democracy. The last thing New Mexicans want is more red tape and the continued rollback of their American rights.”

“The regulations proposed in this bill would disproportionately impact Native voters whose IDs would no longer be accepted, married women who have had a name change on their ID, veterans whose military paperwork does not include proof of citizenship, and folks living in rural areas. Even further, it sells out Americans’ private information by giving the Department of Homeland Security access to state voter rolls and voters’ personal data — another very concerning example of federal overreach by this Administration.”

The SAVE America Act, which has garnered opposition from both sides of the aisle, would:

Require newly eligible voters and those who need to update their voter registration to provide proof of their citizenship with a passport, military ID submitted with service records showing place of birth, or in some cases, a birth certificate.

Half of Americans, more than 140 million citizens, do not have a valid passport — which typically costs $165 and takes weeks to obtain.

As many as 69 million women who have taken their spouse’s name do not have a birth certificate matching their legal name.

Require rural and Tribal voters who vote by mail to register in person with one of the above documents, in some cases forcing them to travel up to seven hours round trip in order to be eligible to cast a ballot.

Require veterans with a valid military ID to also provide proof of citizenship (with a passport, birth certificate, or service records) to update their voter registration.

The updated version of the bill also includes restrictive voter ID requirements which prevent states from accepting valid Tribal IDs and student IDs (even if they are from a state university). Lastly, the bill also includes provisions forcing states to share voters’ personal information with the Department of Homeland Security on a regular basis.

Rep. Vasquez has long been a strong advocate for protecting the rights of all eligible voters in New Mexico.

He voted against the original SAVE Act in 2024 and again in 2025, which held some of the same restrictive provisions.

He has pushed for additional funding to improve election security, help states administer safe and fair elections, and protect eligible voters and election volunteers.

He cosponsored the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, which would strengthen the Voting Rights Act by addressing state efforts to disenfranchise voters and protecting access to the ballot box.

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Walberg-Backed SAVE America Act Passes House

Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) released the following statement after the House passage of the SAVE America Act, which would require proof of citizenship when registering to vote, improve the ability of states to remove noncitizens from voter rolls, and require voter ID.

"Americans need a valid ID to drive a car, pick up a prescription, and open a bank account, yet many do not need to display a valid ID to participate in federal elections," saidRep. Walberg. "Requiring voter ID and proof of citizenship to vote in federal elections isn’t just common sense, it is supported by the overwhelming majority of Americans. The SAVE America Act will keep foreign interference out of our elections, strengthen our election integrity, and restore public trust in our federal elections."

Background

Thirty-six states requires voters to show some form of ID to cast a ballot. However, that leaves many states with little to no safeguards to verify who is casting a ballot in federal elections. Despite finding noncitizens and similarly ineligible restraints on voter rolls, fourteen states still refuse to require photo ID for voting.


Wasserman Schultz Unveils Affordability Agenda to Address the Cost of Living Crisis

"Life is simply too unaffordable, and the American dream is slipping further out of reach for far too many of our families,” said Wasserman Schultz. “South Florida families are desperate for real solutions. That’s what this Affordability Agenda offers. It’s a strategy to quickly lower the costs, from groceries and health care to housing and electric bills. It renews the promise of affordability and the American dream.”

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) joined with the New Democrat Coalition to release her Affordability Agenda, a policy roadmap to make life more affordable for South Florida by focusing on lowering the five core costs that are too high for hardworking people: health care, housing, energy, family care, and household essentials like groceries.

Despite promising to lower prices “on day one” and “end inflation,” President Trump and Republicans in Congress failed to lower the cost of living, while their billionaire-first agenda makes life more expensive across the board for hardworking Americans. With the Affordability Agenda, Wasserman Schultz offers a better path forward to lower everyday costs in the short- and long-term by rolling back harmful policies pushed by Republicans in Washington. This plan promotes competition and supports small businesses to boost consumer choice, and it breaks down regulatory barriers across the government to meet the needs of everyday Americans.

“Every day, residents I represent share how living costs are just too high and only get worse. More than 223,000 of them face skyrocketing health care coverage costs, with a family of four seeing annual premiums rising by 189 percent. And last year, 42,311 Floridians filed for bankruptcy, a 20 percent spike over last year. Life is simply too unaffordable, and the American dream is slipping further out of reach for far too many of our families,” said Wasserman Schultz. “South Florida families are desperate for real solutions. That’s what this Affordability Agenda offers. It’s a strategy to quickly lower the costs, from groceries and health care to housing and electric bills. It renews the promise of affordability and the American dream.”

The Affordability Agenda:

Groceries & Household Essentials

Roll back Trump’s tariffs and advance smarter, durable trade policies.

Support small family farms and crack down on price-gouging corporations to increase competition in the food marketplace.

Lower internet bills by restarting the Affordable Connectivity Program.

Increase the minimum wage and ensure workers have a seat at the table.

Health Care

Reduce monthly costs by extending the enhanced premium ACA tax credits and expanding prescription price caps.

Protect patients from surprise medical bills and aggressive debt collection.

Fully fund Medicaid and strengthen Medicare’s guaranteed benefits.

Crack down on fraud and abuse to increase competition and transparency.

Housing

Cut red tape and update permitting and zoning laws to build four million new homes in the next decade.

Eliminate unfair tax breaks to private equity and large investors.

Utilize innovative construction technologies to accelerate home production.

Build more affordable homes by increasing Low-Income Housing Tax Credit allocations and community benefits.

Energy

Reform permitting rules to speed up energy transmission and infrastructure.

Ensure energy is available and abundant by encouraging all forms of energy.

Reallocate electric grid costs to protect consumers from price hikes due to manufacturing and data center development.

Invest in energy efficiency and home heating & cooling to lower residential energy costs.

Families

Create national paid family and medical leave program for all Americans.

Expanded tax cuts and universal pre-K access to support working families.

Leverage federal resources and foster public-private partnerships to enhance care options and paid leave access.

Invest in the home health and long-term care workforce to care for aging Americans.

You can read the full Affordability Agendahere.

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Webster Votes to Pass SAVE America Act, Protecting Election Integrity

Washington, D.C. — Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, today voted to pass S. 1383, the SAVE America Act, legislation that requires documentary proof of citizenship to register to vote in federal elections and mandates photo identification when casting a ballot.

“Secure elections are a hallmark of our republic,” said Rep. Webster. “More than 80% of Americans support commonsense requirements to ensure that only American citizens decide federal elections. The SAVE America Act strengthens election security by establishing clear verification standards that protect every lawful vote. And yet most of my Democrat colleagues are opposing this bill. Americans deserve better. I will continue working with my House Republican colleagues and President Trump to advance this measure and urge the American people to demand Democrats in the Senate stop blocking this bill.”

The Save America Act protects Americans right to vote and strengthens election

integrity by:

Requiring voters to present eligible photo identification before voting.

Ensuring states obtain proof of citizenship when registering an individual to vote.

Requiring states to remove non-citizens from existing voter rolls.

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Womack Votes for SAVE America Act to Safeguard Federal Elections

WASHINGTON, D.C.— February 11, 2026… Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today voted in support of S. 1383, the “Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act” or “SAVE America Act”, which aims to safeguard federal election integrity by ensuring that voters are American citizens.

Congressman Womack said, “The law is clear that the only people eligible to vote in our federal elections are U.S. citizens. The SAVE America Act provides the safeguards needed to help ensure this standard is upheld. Verifying that voters in the voting booth are American citizens protects the integrity of our nation’s time-honored tradition of free and fair elections. This bill strengthens public trust in our electoral institutions—an essential pillar of American democracy.”

The SAVE America Act amends the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) to require proof of citizenship to register an individual to vote in federal elections. The legislation also requires voters to show photo identification when casting a ballot and requires states to remove noncitizens from their voter rolls.

Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas’s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.

womack.house.gov


Baldwin Leads Bill to Expand Affordable Housing, Crack Down on Wealthy Investors Who Buy Up Single-Family Homes

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) announced she is once again leading a bill that would crack down on wealthy investors who buy up single-family homes and invest tens of billions of dollars to rehab and build millions of new homes. The Affordable Housing and Homeownership Protection Act would provide up to $50 billion over ten years to help build and preserve approximately three million affordable housing units nationwide. The bill would be fully paid for by taxing investors who purchase and hold more than 15 single-family homes.

“In communities big and small, our state has a severe housing shortage that makes it harder for families to find a house to rent or buy in their price range, forcing folks out of the neighborhoods they love and want to raise a family,” said Senator Baldwin. “This bill is a win-win for Wisconsin families, rehabbing old homes and building new affordable ones, while cracking down on wealthy investors who are buying up single-family homes, raising prices, and locking out Wisconsinites from homes in their communities.”

As housing costs skyrocket and wealthy investors buy up single-family homes in cities, more Wisconsinites are priced out of homeownership, while increased rent means less to save or spend on food, clothing, and other everyday necessities. Driven by a shortage of as many as 6.8 million homes nationwide, home prices have surged 51% and rents 36% over the last six years, according to the National Association of Realtors and Zillow. These skyrocketing housing costs are pricing many working families out of homeownership, while more households are rent burdened than ever before.

At the same time, private investors have begun buying more single-family homes – many of which they hold as rentals – further pricing families out of homeownership and often driving up rents. Through the first nine months of 2025, private investors purchased approximately 30% of single-family homes sold nationwide in 2023, an increase of 74% from their pre-pandemic purchase share. Most families buying a home cannot compete with the largest investors – usually private equity and other institutional investors – which combine financial might with all-cash offers, waived contingencies, and other concessions households are unable to match.

The Affordable Housing and Homeownership Protection Act could raise $51 billion by taxing investors who purchase single-family homes. Revenues would be split 65/35 between the Housing Trust Fund and Capital Magnet Fund. The resources could build or rehabilitate over 285,000 housing units for Americans and help finance nearly 2.7 million units of housing.

This legislation is led by Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Tina Smith (D-MN). It’s supported by the National Low Income Housing Coalition, National Housing Law Project, National Consumer Law Center (on behalf of its low-income clients), Americans for Financial Reform, and Consumer Action.

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Senator Baldwin Hits Trump on $600 Million Cuts to Public Health Funding, Including Disease and HIV Prevention

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ranking Member on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee for Labor, Health, and Human Services, and Education (LHHS), released the following statement after the Trump Administration abruptly cancelled a reported $600 million in grants through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to four states primarily controlled by elected Democrats – Minnesota, California, Colorado, and New York. The cancelled funding, among other initiatives that keep Americans healthy, helps stop the spread of HIV, strengthens and grows the health care workforce, connects people to good, affordable health care, and stops the spread of diseases and infections. The only explanation President Trump and RFK, Jr. gave to take away this funding was a vague statement that it does not reflect agency priorities.

“Once again, Donald Trump is putting political retribution above Americans’ health, taking away needed tools that prevent the spread of life-threatening diseases like HIV, cutting off investment in our health care workforce, and stopping Americans from getting the care they need. Donald Trump and RFK, Jr. are putting Americans’ lives and health on the line just to play petty politics and punish those who’ve spoken out against him,” said Senator Baldwin. “I, for one, will not be intimidated. Americans, regardless of whether they live in a state governed by a Democrat or a Republican, cannot be used as pawns in this President’s campaign of retribution. American families want lower costs and to live healthy lives, not vengeance and revenge from the President. Diseases don’t stop spreading at state lines or care what political party you are. Taking away this funding for these communities makes all Americans less safe and puts the health of all Americans at risk.”

The Trump Administration’s cancellations of these grants appear to be politically motivated. This falls on the heels of Secretary Kennedy trying to terminate $2 billion in mental health and addiction treatment and prevention grants in January.

The 108 cancelled grants impact several programs, including Public Health Infrastructure Grants (PHIG), CDC Prevention Research Centers, HIV and STI Prevention, Injury Prevention and Control, the CDC Climate and Health Program, and the Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) programs. The funding across the four states was used to hire staff, modernize and update data systems, and manage disease outbreaks.

The canceled grants include programs that have long been supported by Democratic and Republican administrations. The funding includes support projects that prevent HIV infection, grow the public health workforce, and help state, local, and tribal health departments respond to public health crises.

Senator Baldwin has been a leading voice in pushing back against cuts to critical health funding. Earlier this year, Senator Baldwin spoke out against the abrupt cancelling, then reinstating, of $2 billion in funding for thousands of programs that support mental health and addiction treatment and prevention. As Ranking Member on the LHHS Appropriations Subcommittee, Senator Baldwin also fought for and successfully included provisions to put up stronger guardrails to ensure funding for Fiscal Year 2026 is spent as Congress intended and without delay.

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ICYMI: Senator Banks Joins Larry Kudlow on Fox Business to Discuss the SAVE America Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) joined Larry Kudlow on Fox Business to discuss the importance of passing the SAVE America Act in the Senate.

Click the image above for the full discussion

Full Remarks below:

Larry Kudlow: “Welcome back to the show, Indiana Senator, Mr. Jim Banks. Senator, welcome. So, Save America Act, the house is going to vote on it. Can it pass the Senate? It’s so important. Photo ID, proof of citizenship, you know the drill. Can this thing get through the Senate?”

Sen. Banks: “Well, Larry, Indiana already has a strong voter ID. law. This is common sense. The vast majority of Americans support it. In the Senate, we now have 41 co-sponsors on the Save America Act that forces voter ID in federal elections. That’s why this is constitutional, because we’re talking about federal elections. We’re talking right now, we had a long meeting in the Republican conference yesterday about the talking filibuster and the different maneuvers that it will take to move this forward. I don’t think we have a choice. We have to pass it. We have to pass the Save America Act, voter ID. We’re growing support. It’s only a matter of time before it comes to a vote in the Senate. So we’re committed to doing it. We’re fighting hard for it, Larry, and I hope that happens very soon.”

Larry Kudlow: “I love the talking filibuster. You run out of talk, you run out of steam, that’s it. You’re over. We’re going to have a vote. But let me ask you, where does Chuck Schumer come across calling a photo ID and the Save America Act? He calls it a Jim Crow law. Where does he come off with that?”

Sen. Banks: “Well, we’re used to these types of talking points for the Democrats. It’s absurd to me. It takes it. As you know, it takes an ID to buy a beer, an ID to do almost anything else in this country, to get on an airplane. The very fundamental act of voting should require a photo ID. Like I said, it works in Indiana. The silver bullet for election integrity is providing an ID to prove that you are who you are when you go to vote on election day. And that’s what the Save America Act would do. This is important to our country after four years under Joe Biden, where they flooded this country with millions upon millions of illegals in swing states, where in many of those, they welcome these illegals into polling places and we have to do everything that we can to stop them from voting. Providing a voter ID is the way to stop it. So, the Save America Act is a strong solution, strong support in the senate. You still have a few Republican senators Larry, who say that they’re not for it for this reason or that reason. But then you have Democrats like Fetterman who understands that this is common sense… So, I think we can get the 50 plus one votes to pass it. We need to bring it to a vote in the Senate.”

Larry Kudlow: “House Democrats can’t even vote against it unless they have a photo ID. Senator Banks… thank you for coming on. We appreciate it.”

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Sen. Banks’ Legislation Securing Fair Federal Funding for Indiana Hospitals Becomes Law

WASHINGTON, D.C, – Last week, Senator Jim Banks’ (R-Ind.) bill, the Save Our Safety-Net Hospitals Act of 2025, was passed in the Senate and enacted into law. This billensures that Indiana hospitals get their fair share of Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) funding. Hospitals that treat very high percentages of Medicaid and low-income Medicare patients receive these federal payments to help cover their costs, but a 2021 recalculation shortchanged Indiana and several other states.

County hospitals, rural hospitals, and urban hospitals in low-income areas have been hit hardest, costing Indiana more than $140 million annually. This bill would restore the pre-2021 Medicaid DSH payment formula and distribute federal funding, which is already appropriated, more fairly.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “A recalculation in a federal funding formula shortchanged Indiana hospitals that serve rural and low-income urban areas. This bill corrects that and delivers the support they were intended to receive.”

Matthew Doyle, President and CEO, Methodist Hospitals: “Methodist is a true safety net hospital and 80% of our patients are covered by Medicaid/Medicare. Our mission, that has remained a constant through our 102 years, is to provide high quality healthcare to all those in need. The residents of Gary and Northwest Indiana deserve the same high quality health care as other Americans, and I appreciate Sen. Banks’ advocacy to ensure they can continue to receive it. The Disproportionate Share language included in the recent appropriations package is a critical step to preserve that access.”

Dr. Eric Fish, President/CEO of Schneck Medical Center: “DSH payments have been crucial to funding the gap in uncompensated care, but Section 203 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 drastically changed how such uncompensated care is calculated – even though the care continues to be provided. Thank you to Senator Banks for continuing to advocate for legislation to address this important issue to help rural hospitals like Schneck, and other hospitals across Indiana, continue to care for all Hoosiers.”

Ben Wells, President/CEO of Reid Health: “Reid Health has served East Central Indiana for more than 120 years and is committed to providing care and bettering the health of all individuals in our region. Nearly 75% of our patients are covered by Medicaid and/or Medicare, which does not fully cover the cost of care provided. For many years, DSH payments were an essential part of covering that loss and preserving essential services for our region, but Reid Health did not receive any DSH payments in 2023 and would not have qualified for them in 2024 or 2025 without this legislation. Reid Health appreciates Sen. Banks’ tireless work on this issue to ensure the East Central Region of Indiana continues to thrive for years to come.”

Dr. Lisa E. Harris, CEO of Eskenazi Health: “Eskenazi Health thanks Senator Banks for co-sponsoring the bipartisan Save Our Safety-Net Hospitals Act of 2025, legislation that restores a portion of critical funding for Indiana’s safety-net hospitals. While significant funding challenges remain, this bill represents an important step and strengthens Eskenazi Health’s ability to continue providing high-quality, compassionate care to patients across our hospital and health system. We are grateful for his support.”

Key Provisions of the Save Our Safety-NetHospitals Act of 2025 are:

Restore the Medicaid DSH payment formula that existed before the FY 2021 appropriations act recalculated it.

Allow states to compute DSH payments including low-income “dual eligible” Medicaid and Medicare patients.

Boost payments to Indiana hospitals by roughly $140 million annually and benefit several other states.

Allow states to spend unspent DSH payments from earlier years, without any new appropriations.

Full bill text can be found here.

Background:

Hospitals serving many low-income patients receive Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) payments. These payments used to include both Medicaid and Medicare SSI patients, but the FY 2021 consolidated appropriations act removed Medicare SSI patients from the calculation and capped DSH payments.

While most states never fully covered hospital costs, states like Indiana—which counted “dual eligible” Medicaid and Medicare patients—were hit hard. Indiana hospitals now face roughly $140 million in annual unreimbursed costs. Methodist Hospitals, in Gary and Merrillville, have particularly been hard hit. Restoring the DSH payment formula can avert service reductions and even save safety-net hospitals like Methodist.

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