Castor Stands Firmly Against the Trump Administration's ICE and CBP Brutality

Today, U.S. Representative Kathy Castor (FL-14) released the following statement after voting ‘no’ on an extension of funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS):

“This is a moral moment for America. After the brutal murders of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, and the widespread abuse of power by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), I cannot support one penny more for the lawless actions of the DHS."

"Trump and Republicans in Congress ripped away Medicaid, health care and support for students in the Big Ugly Bill to pay for massive tax breaks for billionaires. The Big Ugly Bill also ballooned ICE’s budget with no additional accountability or oversight. Trump is expanding ICE into an unchecked paramilitary force, and its budget now exceeds all federal law enforcement agencies combined. Meanwhile DHS is building huge new detention camps and using technology to spy on and intimidate Americans. More people have died in DHS custody than ever before and children are being ripped away from parents and communities. DHS is routinely violating constitutional rights to free speech, freedom the press, due process and the right to be secure from unreasonable search and seizures. I am going to do everything I can to claw back the $191B that Republicans sent to DHS in the Big Ugly Bill, and redirect those resources to address the high cost of living.

“Last month, I voted in support of our service members, MacDill AFB, and to address high energy costs and build safer communities, but I cannot vote for a package that includes funding for DHS without policies and safeguards to protect American citizens and immigrant families from ongoing abuse. The Trump Administration continues to misuse taxpayer dollars to brutalize U.S. citizens and immigrant families, so I voted no.”

"Democrats are committed to protecting our neighbors' rights to peacefully protest and uphold all Americans’ constitutional rights. I am thankful for my neighbors' countless calls to hold the Administration accountable for their lawless actions."

“America needs real pathways to citizenship for people willing to work hard, pay taxes and play by the rules, and strong laws that keep our border secure from violent criminals and dangerous drugs. A path forward must include the following priorities:


CASTRO, CASAR OPPOSE NEW ICE FACILITIES IN SAN ANTONIO

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to reports that Immigration and Customs Enforcement plans to acquire a warehouse on the East side of San Antonio and turn it into a 1,500 bed ‘processing center,’ Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) and Congressman Greg Casar (TX-35) released the following statement:

“We should be closing down the facilities where children and families are being held in inhumane conditions—not building more of them. These warehouses that are being branded as ‘processing centers’ are just another way for the administration to indiscriminately lock people up and give the profits to its cronies. We strongly oppose any expansion of ICE’s presence in San Antonio, and we will fight with every tool available to prevent it.”


Opening statement of Co-Chairman Smith at hearing on BelarusHuman Rights in Belarus Today: Political Prisoners and the Ongoing Crackdown

The following are excerpts of Co-Chairman Chris Smith’s (R-NJ) opening statement at the Tom Lantos Human Rights Committee’s February 3rd hearing—his eighth hearing chaired exclusively on Belarus—entitled “Human Rights in Belarus Today: Political Prisoners and the Ongoing Crackdown”:

Today, we will examine the ongoing, brutal crackdown on democratic opposition—and indeed, on anyone suspected of sympathy for it, or for the freedom and independence of Belarus.

We will also talk about political prisoners—we are grateful for President Trump’s success in negotiating the release of almost 200 prisoners, including Sergey Tihanovski, who will testify in a few minutes.

We will hear frank and shocking reports about prison conditions and the entire political prisoner system run by the Belarusian government. It’s been called a “revolving door of repression,” by which prisoners are taken and treated as transactional hostages to intimidate others, later being released as new victims are arrested.

And we’ll also talk about what the U.S. government can do—on many fronts—to build upon the Trump administration’s impressive results in re-starting diplomacy with Belarus and securing life-saving prisoner releases. Congress needs to support the President’s efforts to get the remaining prisoners released, and at the same time, to take apart that “revolving door of repression.”

We are honored to have Sergey Tihanovski with us today. In 2020, Sergey was the principal leader of the Belarusian opposition and its candidate for president of Belarus. He was arrested and imprisoned before the election—his wife, Svetlana, was then selected to be the candidate. A tremendous popular movement for democracy had been building around Sergey and flowed into Svetlana’s heroic candidacy.

We know what happened: the dictator, Lukashenka, was in deep trouble and faked the election results; massive protests ensued; and the dictator responded with a terrible crackdown. Many thousands were imprisoned. Hundreds of thousands were driven into exile. In June of last year, however, Sergey was released from prison as a direct result of the diplomacy of President Trump, and wrote in a Washington Post op-ed last November:

“If not for Donald Trump’s unorthodox diplomacy, I would not be writing these words today. An unexpected meeting last June in Minsk between the Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko and U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg led to my release after five years in solitary confinement. It was an outcome no one anticipated—and one that reminded me that diplomacy, when pursued creatively, can still change lives…”

“It remains nothing short of providential that Trump survived the assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, last year. Had he not, the struggle for Western civilization would be in far greater disarray. Trump’s instincts for direct engagement, calibrated pressure, and transactional diplomacy are what the moment requires…”

So, thank you, Sergey, for testifying today. You have made tremendous sacrifices for your country. We deeply honor your patriotism, courage, and tenacity—as well as that of Svetlana and all other prisoners of conscience.

And we need to hear about the details of your imprisonment—Americans and entire the world need to know.

Among those freed were also Nobel Peace Prize laureate Ales Bialiatski, and prominent opposition figures Maria Kolesnikova and Viktar Babaryka. Thanks to President Trump’s direct engagement, almost 200 political prisoners have now been released, including several U.S. citizens.

Of course, I rejoice with everyone released and their families. Today, they are free, and in some cases, their lives and health were probably saved by their release.

Full credit should be given to President Trump for this remarkable achievement—his bold diplomacy and personal engagement have delivered life-saving results for innocent people languishing in brutal detention. Now, many of them are with their families. I have had the privilege of meeting some of the released prisoners, and their stories of courage amid unimaginable hardship are deeply inspiring.

We must not forget—and I’m sure the Trump administration will not forget—the more than 1,000 political prisoners, who remain behind bars in harsh and often life-threatening conditions. Their immediate and unconditional release remains a top priority.

Likewise, we must not forget that the prisoner releases haven’t brought Belarus a single inch closer to freedom or democratic government, or even independence and sovereignty. Belarus has been a dictatorship for over thirty years, but it’s gotten much worse since the crackdown began in 2020. The space of independence for private lives and personal opinions has gotten much tighter—the range of acts that are liable to bring punishment has become all-encompassing—and the country becomes more visibly subjugated by Russia.

The people of Belarus don’t want to see their country subjugated to Russia, and they certainly don’t want to participate in Russia’s war on Ukraine and its egregious war crimes—including the trafficking of innocent Ukrainian children.

As prime author of four U.S. laws that address Belarus, I have introduced legislation in this Congress that would promote democracy and human rights in the country. The Belarus Democracy, Human Rights, and Sovereignty Act of 2025, HR 3225, updates and strengthens the earlier laws and is currently pending before the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

The four earlier laws include the landmark Belarus Democracy Acts of 2004, 2006, and 2011, as well as the Belarus Democracy, Human Rights, and Sovereignty Act of 2020, which first passed the House and was then signed into law by President Trump as part of last year’s appropriations and pandemic relief bill. All four laws have set policies to support democratic and human rights activists and journalists and sanction Lukashenka and other bad actors in his government until it moves towards free and fair elections.

My current legislation, HR 3225, updates and strengthens the earlier laws. It would:

Reauthorize the Belarus Democracy Act of 2004 for the fourth time, following the government of Belarus’ criminal involvement in Putin’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, trafficking of Ukrainian children, and opening of Belarusian territory to Russian military operations;

Expand the list of Belarusian authorities who may be subject to U.S. sanctions, beyond the country’s senior leadership and security services, to include those directly responsible for abducting Ukrainian children, cooperating with Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, and Russian militarization of Belarusian territory;

State that it is U.S. policy to:

oRefuse to recognize Lukashenka as the legitimately elected leader of Belarus;

oContinue to call for the immediate release of all political prisoners in Belarus, including U.S. citizen Vitali Shkliarov and leading opposition figure Maryia Kalesnikava; and

oRefuse to recognize any incorporation of Belarus into a so-called “Union State” that is under the control of Russia;

Require the Secretary of State to report to Congress on crimes committed by the government of Belarus in support of Russia’s unprovoked war of aggression in Ukraine; and

Authorize U.S. assistance to promote democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and sovereignty in Belarus.

So, as we discuss the vastly worsened situation in Belarus—the ongoing crackdown—and the prisoner releases achieved by President Trump, we welcome your input on what the U.S. government policy should be, including Congress’s role, and in particular, this legislation.

In recent years, the people of Belarus have shown great patriotism. They continue to resist at the great price of the tightening repression of the Lukashenka dictatorship, which has now been in place for over 30 years. In fact, the resistance is growing—and Congress needs to join the President in staying in it for the long haul with the patriots of Belarus.

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Rep. Chu and Sen. Schiff Lead California Delegation Members in Calling on Major Insurance Companies to Ensure Los Angeles Fire Victims Receive Fair Compensation

WASHINGTON, D.C. –Today, Representative Judy Chu (CA-28) and Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) led 14 members of the California congressional delegation in demanding answers from nine of the state’s largest insurance companies about the barriers delaying Los Angeles fire survivors from receiving fair compensation and benefits.

This letter follows multiple concerning reports from Eaton and Palisades fire survivors describing ongoing challenges with their insurance claims, including arduous itemization requirements, repeated reassignment of claims adjusters, and delayed claims processing and payouts that fall far below home values. These reports raise serious concerns about potential violations of California’s Unfair Competition Law.

“In addition to the financial and emotional trauma of losing their homes, survivors of the Eaton and Palisades fires are facing mountains of paperwork and unanswered calls to their insurers. We have received outreach from constituents who shared that they have been required to itemize their material losses and provide receipts corresponding to every item, which can also include requirements of photographic evidence of prior ownership— an impossible task even for those who have not lost everything,” wrote the lawmakers.

“Rather than creating more hoops to jump through, insurers must practice transparency and work quickly to ensure wildfire victims are paid what they are owed. On behalf of California policyholders, we are writing to request information on how insurers will reform their practices and expedite their processes in light of the fact that many policyholders are still awaiting payouts and facing enormous administrative burdens even a year after the fires began,” continued the lawmakers.

The lawmakers are seeking additional information on how insurers are determining itemization requirements, the number of adjusters assigned to claims, how overall payouts are determined, and what steps they’re taking to ensure adherence to California’s Unfair Competition Act.

As recovery from the Eaton Fire continues, Rep. Chu continues to push for proper insurance coverage and compensation for survivors. In December 2025, she sent a letter to Governor Newsom and Insurance Commissioner Lara highlighting findings from Eaton Fire Residents United showing elevated levels of lead and asbestos in still-standing homes. The letter urged state leaders to require insurance companies to cover soil testing, conduct repeated remediation until homes are cleared, and extend Additional Living Expense (ALE) coverage for affected residents.

This letter is also signed by Representative Brad Sherman (D-Calif.-32), Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.-11), and Representatives Luz Rivas (D-Calif.-29), Ted Lieu (D-Calif.-36), Lateefah Simon (D-Calif.-12), George Whitesides (D-Calif.-27), Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.-24), John Garamendi (D-Calif.-8), Julia Brownley (D-Calif.-26), Laura Friedman (D-Calif.-30), Ro Khanna (D-Calif.-17), Jared Huffman (D-Calif.-02), Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.-18) and Josh Harder (D-Calif.-9).

Full text of the letter is available here and below:

Dear Mr. Farney, Mr. Vargas, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Eastwood, Mr. Schnitzer, Mr. Tirador, Ms. Roach, Mr. Sweeney, and Mr. Backley,

One year ago, the Eaton and Palisades fires resulted in a terrible loss of life, destroyed thousands of structures and displaced more than 100,000 residents in one of the most devastating natural disasters in California history. Now, a year later, survivors are facing significant challenges navigating insurance claims and receiving the payments their policies entitle them to in the wake of a disaster. Our offices have received multiple concerning reports of survivors being subjected to arduous itemization and receipt requirements, delayed claim processing, multiple adjusters, denials, and estimates that fall far below home values, raising concerns about potential violations of California’s Unfair Competition Law. On behalf of our constituents, we are urgently requesting your companies provide information on your claims adjustment process, how you are adhering to California state consumer protection laws, and your efforts to ensure that survivors are treated fairly and receive the payments to which they are entitled.

One year after the fires, 70 percent of survivors remain displaced and Angelenos are still facing significant roadblocks that are preventing them from rebuilding their lives. In addition to the financial and emotional trauma of losing their homes, survivors of the Eaton and Palisades fires are facing mountains of paperwork and unanswered calls to their insurers. We have received outreach from constituents who shared that they have been required to itemize their material losses and provide receipts corresponding to every item, which can also include requirements of photographic evidence of prior ownership— an impossible task even for those who have not lost everything. These arduous requirements raise concerns about possible violations of the California state Insurance Code, which prohibits insurers from seeking information not reasonably required for or material to the resolution of a claim dispute, and requires that investigations be fair and objective.

Survivors have also reported being assigned multiple adjusters, which has caused administrative delays, breakdowns in communication, and downward adjustments of their insurance payouts. These additional hurdles complicate and slow down an already frustrating process for survivors who paid premiums for years with the reasonable expectation that if disaster struck, they could count on their insurer to pay their claims. California courts have found that unreasonable insurance payout delays can violate the implied covenants of good faith and fair dealing, and failing to adopt and implement reasonable standards for the prompt investigation and processing of claims arising under insurance policies violates the California Insurance Code.

In addition to being in violation of state law, insurance claim delays and payment denials have forced a majority of the Los Angeles wildfire survivors to take on debt and empty their savings. Over half of survivors’ net losses exceed their annual income. Moreover, survivors whose claims have not been settled cannot access emergency aid provided by FEMA and the Small Business Administration, as those federal assistance programs are contingent on the outcomes of adjudication of insurance claims, creating additional financial uncertainty.

Rather than creating more hoops to jump through, insurers must practice transparency and work quickly to ensure wildfire victims are paid what they are owed. On behalf of California policyholders, we are writing to request information on how insurers will reform their practices and expedite their processes in light of the fact that many policyholders are still awaiting payouts and facing enormous administrative burdens even a year after the fires began.

Accordingly, we ask that you provide written answers to the following questions no later than February 6, 2026:

How does your company determine whether a policyholder will need to provide a full itemized receipt of their losses?

What level of detail is expected for such itemizations?

What is the rationale for this level of detail?

Is there an appeal or otherwise relevant process they can pursue if they do not have access to a receipt?

Have itemization requirements increased since the outbreak of the Los Angeles wildfires?

How does your company determine how many adjusters are assigned to a claim?

What is the rationale for assigning multiple adjusters to a singular claim?

What type of information tracking and sharing occurs between adjusters when they are brought onto a claim and for the duration?

How do you determine the overall payout amount for a property that has not experienced a total loss?

What recourse do policyholders have when they are presented with estimates far below their home value?

Do you use artificial intelligence in the claims review and settlement process? If so, how? Is there a crosscheck conducted by a claims adjuster?

What steps are you taking to ensure adherence to California’s Unfair Competition Law? How do you address accusations of possible violations of this law?

Thank you in advance for your attention to this matter. We look forward to reviewing your responses.

cc: Commissioner Ricardo Lara, California Department of Insurance

David A. Sampson, President and CEO, American Property Casualty Insurance Association


House Passes Ciscomani’s VETS Opportunity Act to Expand GI Bill Access and Support Student Veterans

Washington, D.C. - The U.S. House of Representatives yesterday passed legislation introduced by Congressman Juan Ciscomani to modernize the GI Bill, expand access to educational opportunities and ensure the fair treatment of student veterans, National Guardsmen and Reservists.

The VETS Opportunity Act of 2025 (H.R. 1458) passed yesterday evening. The legislation now goes to the U.S. Senate for consideration.

“I am honored to represent nearly 80,000 veterans in Southern Arizona,” said Rep. Ciscomani. “I know firsthand when service members transition to civilian life, they bring discipline, leadership, and a strong work ethic. Too often, the system limits how they can use the benefits they earned. The VETS Opportunity Act changes that by modernizing the GI Bill and expanding access to high-quality certificates and technical training programs, possibly offered in a hybrid format, that lead directly to good-paying jobs in high-demand fields.”

Many veterans lack access to flexible, non-traditional education pathways that lead to in-demand, high-earning careers. The VETS Opportunity Act expands GI Bill eligibility for accredited certificate programs and correcting inequities affecting active-duty service members, Guardsmen and Reservists.

The bill - Ciscomani's fourth veterans-focused bill to pass the House in the 119th Congress - also creates parity for National Guard and Reserve student veterans who are called to active duty during a semester, allowing them to receive grades, just as active-duty service members already can, so they are not forced to retake coursework they have substantially completed. In addition, the legislation allows active-duty service members to be reimbursed for the $1,200 GI Bill contribution when their final months of eligibility are used while on active duty.

Ciscomani noted that the VETS Opportunity Act of 2025 empowers veterans to tailor their education to their career goals while helping fill workforce shortages in.

“Not every veteran wants or needs a traditional four-year degree,” the congressman said. “Many want fast, skills-based training that connects them to careers in the trades, health care, technology, and other critical fields. This bill recognizes reality and gives veterans the flexibility to choose the path that works best for them and their families. This legislation empowers our nation’s veterans, strengthens our workforce, and honors the promise this country made to those who served. By strengthening education benefits, we empower veterans, build a stronger workforce, and drive a stronger economy.”

The VETS Opportunity Act of 2025 is Ciscomani’s fifth piece of legislation to advance through the chamber.

Ciscomani’s remarks on the VETS Opportunity Act of 2025 can be viewed here. A summary and full text of the bill can be seen here.

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CLARKE CELEBRATES HAITI TPS COURT RULING

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

February 3, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT:

e: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov

c: 202.913.0126

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) issued the following statement regarding the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia’s pause on the Trump Administration’s decision to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti:

“I am deeply grateful that U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes halted the expiration of Temporary Protected Status for Haiti that would have taken effect today, protecting more than 350,000 Haitian TPS holders who were at risk of deportation. As Haiti’s crisis deteriorates with further political instability, devastating humanitarian conditions, and rampant gang violence, we cannot force hundreds of thousands of people back into the very chaos they fled. While this is not the end of the fight, today brings relief. For the time being, Haitian nationals across this country can remain in their homes, contribute to their communities, live without fear, and continue to build free, hopeful futures. But they deserve more than temporary solace and better than Donald Trump. The work for the permanent safety of every Haitian goes on.”

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President Trump Signs Lake Lanier Wins into Law

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On January 23rd, President Donald J. Trump signed H.R. 6938, the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, into law. The spending package includes Congressman Andrew Clyde’s (GA-09) provisions to protect both Lake Lanier’s name and recreation sites.

“With the stroke of his pen, President Trump signed critical wins for our beloved Lake Lanier into law” said Clyde. “From saving small business owners from facing burdensome rebranding costs to providing a solution to keep parks open for families to safely enjoy, the enactment of my effective provisions will preserve and improve Lake Lanier for many years to come. I’m deeply thankful to President Trump for helping deliver this significant victory to Northeast Georgia, and I will continue working to secure commonsense policy wins for the Ninth District.”

Due to Rep. Clyde’s hard-fought efforts, the FY26 Energy and Water Development appropriations bill includes a provision (Sec. 109) that allows local partners that manage multiple recreation sites at a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) civil works project to spend collected user fees across all sites they oversee at that project, rather than being limited to using the fees only at the specific site where the funds were collected.

The measure mirrors Reps. Andrew Clyde and Rich McCormick’s Lanier Parks Local Access Act, which aims to incentivize local governments to manage recreation sites on civil works projects like Lake Lanier — a simple yet effective solution to help keep Lake Lanier parks open, safe, and well-maintained.

Additionally, the FY26 Energy and Water appropriations bill report includes language requested by Rep. Clyde to prohibit the USACE from using taxpayer funds to rename Buford Dam and Lake Lanier:

None of the funds made available by this Act may be used to carry out any action altering the designation of Buford Dam and Lake Sidney Lanier, Georgia, authorized in Public Law 84-457. (Page 65)

Without this codification, nearly 350 local businesses and organizations in North Georgia using “Lanier” in their name would have faced significant rebranding costs. Some examples include the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier, Lanier Federal Credit Union, and Lanier Steel Products. Due to Rep. Clyde’s efforts, these local groups and businesses will avoid the potential disastrous consequences brought on by a USACE renaming, including burdensome costs and confusion.

Background

In 2023, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers identified Lake Sidney Lanier and Buford Dam to be renamed due to a misguided measure in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021.

For nearly three years, Rep. Clyde has fought to protect and preserve the Ninth District’s Lake Lanier and Buford Dam:

March 2023: Rep. Clyde Applauds Pause of Lake Lanier and Buford Dam Renaming Efforts

November 2023: Rep. Clyde Fights to Protect Lake Lanier in Appropriations Process

October 2024: Rep. Clyde Requests Confirmation of Terminated Efforts to Rename Lake Lanier, Buford Dam

July 2025: Rep. Clyde Secures Lake Lanier Wins in FY26 Appropriations Process


Congressman Cohen Delivers $14.7 Million in Community Projects

WASHINGTON – The spending bills President Trump signed into law today contain major community projects for Tennessee’s 9th Congressional District worth more than $14.7 million for which Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) sought funding through the annual appropriations process.

Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

“This Fiscal Year 2026 federal funding bill will deliver important physical improvements to institutions in Tennessee’s 9th Congressional District, including major renovations of iconic structures like Clayborn Temple, the gathering place for striking sanitation workers in 1968 which burned last April, and Mason Temple, where Dr. King delivered his last ‘Mountaintop’ speech. These are investments in our history, culture and quality of life, and I’m pleased to see them signed into law.”

Specifically in Tennessee’s 9th Congressional District, the Transportation and Housing spending bill contains the following community projects:

Historic Mason Temple Restoration Project -- $1,200,000. The funding will be used for the restoration, rehabilitation, and technology system upgrade to the historic site.

Historic Sterick Renovation and Restoration Project -- $1,200,000. The funding will be used to restore the historic Sterick building, which was one the tallest buildings in the South before being abandoned and becoming one of Memphis’ largest blighted structure.

Covenant Gardens Senior Apartments -- $1,000,000. The funding will be used to build 103 units of affordable housing for lower-income seniors.

Monroe Plaza and extended pedestrian infrastructure improvements -- $850,000. The funding will be used to convert an underutilized street into a new downtown plaza.

Electrical Infrastructure Upgrades at Montgomery Plaza -- $850,000. The funding for the Memphis Housing Authority will be used to upgrade the existing electrical infrastructure.

University of Memphis Park Avenue Campus Upgrades - $850,000. Funds will be used to replace the water and sewer lines, repave and restripe for long term use and pedestrian and vehicle safety on the Park Avenue Campus.

Memphis Community Engagement Youth Facility Renovation and Vulnerable Family Housing Project - $850,000. Funds will be used to renovate community facilities serving at-risk youth and provide additional housing for vulnerable families experiencing homelessness. The city will work in collaboration with the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Memphis and Hospitality Hub.

Memphis Homeless Veterans Homes Renovation Project -- $250,000. The funding will be used for renovations to support homeless veterans’ housing. The city will work in collaboration with Alpha Omega Veterans.

Reimagining Southwest Tennessee Community College Renovations Project - $250,000. The funding will be used to renovate and modernize key facilities on the campus.

Memphis Airport Terminal Modernization and Seismic Project - $4,250,000. The funding, jointly requested with Congressman David Kustoff (TN-8), will be used to seismically protect the airport departure roadway, enhance ADA access, and provide shelter for passengers from inclement weather.

The bills include funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), biomedical and cancer research, including $90 million for research on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, the U.S. Agency for International Development polio program, community health centers, low-income energy assistance (LIEAP), Head Start programs, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Section 8 housing voucher program, public housing, housing for the disabled and elderly, and homeless assistance.


Congressman Cohen Says Immigration Enforcement is Killing Americans

WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Judiciary Committee, today spoke out against out-of-control immigration enforcement and misplaced priorities at a Committee markup. He also condemned “open and notorious unprosecuted corruption” and outrageous pardons of convicted felons.

In his remarks, Congressman Cohen said in part:

“We put more money into ICE, making it the largest law enforcement agency in this country. ICE was given $75 billion over four years. They get more money than the FBI, the DEA, U.S. Marshals and Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms multiplied by two every year…And what are they doing? They’ve killed two Americans, Ms. Good and Mr. Pretti. They are dead forever. Why? Because people we hired and we pay a large amount of money to took their guns out and shot them. Shot them like Kristi Noem shot her dog…

“What are we turning America into? We’ve hired Brown Shirts to go out and harass our citizens. They consider the protesters as the opposition, and they kill them…We’ve got a messed up set of priorities in this country.”

Congressman Cohen was also critical of Jeff Bezos bankrolling a $40 million documentary on Melania Trump, saying, “you’re talking about open and notorious unprosecuted corruption in our country.” And he listed off pardons the president has provided to frauds and convicted felons that a recent Judiciary Committee report said deprived victims of $1.3 billion in restitution.

See Congressman Cohen’s remarks on ICE and corruption here and on Trump’s pardons here.

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Cole Re-Votes in Favor of Five Full-Year Funding Bills to Restore Government Stability

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (R-OK) voted in favor of the Senate Amendment to H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026. This bill, which enacts five full-year Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills previously passed by the House, is now on its way to President Trump’s desk for a signature. Additionally, the package also includes a two-week continuing resolution for the Department of Homeland Security in order to give Congress and the White House more time to continue to negotiate on a final spending bill.

After voting in favor of this legislation and ensuring the government functions, Congressman Cole released the following statement:

“Months of bipartisan, bicameral work produced a final funding agreement, and the House stood by it. When that deal was altered at the last minute in the Senate and the government was disrupted, we didn’t walk away. Instead, we stepped up again. That is what responsible governance looks like,” said Congressman Cole.

“Therefore, today, we have once again strengthened national defense, supported education and health systems, modernized our transportation and infrastructure, supported small businesses, and reasserted diplomacy on the world stage. These are real outcomes for the American people – progress that keeps the nation moving and the government working,” said Congressman Cole.

“We have also ensured continuity for critical Homeland Security services, including support for the Coast Guard, FEMA, TSA, cybersecurity, and more. This path forward will allow the White House to continue good faith negotiations with Democrats – without jeopardizing the continuity of government operations,” said Congressman Cole.

“With President Trump’s signature, more than 95 percent of the federal government will officially be funded through full-year appropriations. That is Article I responsibility put into action,” said Congressman Cole.

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CORREA VOTES AGAINST FUNDING ICE AND DHS IN FEDERAL SPENDING BILL

WASHINGTON — Today, Representative Lou Correa (CA-46) voted against federal funding legislation that included a two-week continuing resolution to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and released the following statement:

“Today, the House voted on government funding legislation that included a two-week continuing resolution to fund DHS and ICE—setting aside any guardrails that might exist and giving the Department the greenlight to continue business as usual terrorizing our communities.

“ICE has become a paramilitary organization that has arrested American citizens, collected biometric information of American citizens, assaulted American citizens, and killed American citizens.

“The agency has strayed far from its founding mission to protect Americans from foreign terrorists. I will continue to oppose funding for DHS and ICE.”

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Courtney Votes to Force Negotiations on Concrete ICE Reforms & End Government Shutdown

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) released the following statement after voting to pass H.R. 7148, which includes a package of five bipartisan full-year funding bills, ends the partial government shutdown, and excludes full-year funding for the Department of Homeland Security to force negotiations on concrete ICE reforms over the next 10 days.

“Passage of this bill, which provides full-year funding for 70% of the federal government – except the Department of Homeland Security, which is handcuffed with only 10 days – is our best and only chance to stop ICE agents’ lawless actions that have trampled on the rights of thousands of individuals, resulting in injury and in some cases, loss of life,” Courtney said. “I have not, and will not support any full-year funding bill for DHS that does not include critical reforms in law that rein in this out-of-control agency: no DHS agents in masks, no detention of U.S. citizens, ending ICE’s unconstitutional policy entering people’s homes or arresting them without a judicial warrant, and full independent investigations into the homicides of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, as well as other cases of DHS agents’ indiscriminate brutality. Congressional leaders and the White House will be tested as to whether they are listening to the American people’s outrage over ICE’s lawlessness.

“This bill also ends the partial government shutdown, preventing disruptions to basic services and functions including pay for military servicemembers, Head Start, and air travel. The five full-year funding bills in this package, which do not include DHS, are a rare bipartisan result for Congressional oversight. The bills keep Connecticut's defense industry on a growth trajectory and go a great distance to ensure President Trump and OMB Director Russell Vought cannot hijack Congressionally appropriated funding. Critical programs like Title I funding for our schools and NIH medical research into fighting cancer, Alzheimer’s, heart disease, and other devastating illnesses will be better protected in law from Trump cuts.”

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Rep. Cuellar Statement on Passage of FY 2026 Appropriations Bills

Today, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee and ranking member of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, released the following statement after Congress passed the remaining Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills to fund the federal government. The package funds key priorities across national defense, workers, schools, public health, transportation, housing, local community projects, and federal financial oversight. Congress also approved a short-term extension of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding, ensuring the time needed to continue negotiations for proper oversight, accountability, and guardrails in the DHS bill.

“I voted to keep the government open and functioning because shutdowns hurt families, undermine public safety, and weaken essential services people rely on every day,” said Congressman Cuellar. “As an appropriator, my responsibility is to deliver results while making sure taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly and with accountability.

“In this instance, a shutdown would not stop DHS from operating due to the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill. A shutdown would only stop Congress from doing its job. We stand for accountability, oversight, and the rule of law. Walking away is not an option.

“DHS is a large and powerful department, and Congress has a responsibility to ensure enforcement is focused on the most serious threats – not families and individuals who have lived here for decades, worked hard, and contributed to our economy. This extension gives Congress the time needed to ensure enforcement is targeted against criminals.”

Beyond DHS, the funding bills deliver significant investments in health care, particularly for rural communities across South Texas.

“These bills include some of the strongest rural health care investments we’ve seen in years,” Dr. Cuellar added. “Health care is a cost-of-living issue, and access to care close to home matters for families.”

Dr. Cuellar helped secure $4.6 billion in funding for community health centers through 2026, the largest increase in more than a decade. The legislation also prevents $16 billion in hospital cuts that would have disproportionately affected rural hospitals and vulnerable patients. It strengthens Medicaid support for providers serving seniors and low-income populations and includes nearly $2 billion in value-based Medicare payments to physicians, supporting providers who treat patients with complex medical needs. Additional provisions support telehealth services, behavioral health care, maternal health programs, and the rural health care workforce.

“These investments help keep hospitals open, support doctors and nurses, and expand access to care in rural areas,” Dr. Cuellar said. “When providers have certainty, families save money and receive care closer to home.

“This is what governing looks like. You keep the government open, you assert congressional authority, and you use the tools you have to protect our communities.”

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Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. is a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee. Previously, he served as a Texas State Representative and Texas Secretary of State.

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Congresswoman Dean on Her Opposition to the  Republican Funding Package

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04), member of the House Appropriations Committee, released the following statement on her opposition to the latest Republican funding package:

“I believe in the five remaining funding bills — Defense; Financial Services; Labor; Health & Human Services; Education, State & Foreign Operations; and THUD — and have demonstrated that support with my votes.

If these were normal times, I would be a firm ‘Yes’ vote. I want round-after-round of temporary spending bills to stop. I want all federal workers paid.

But these are not normal times. We are in a dangerous and deadly place. This funding package also includes a continuing resolution for DHS until February 13 — meaning ICE agents can continue their grotesque and thuggish behavior. Meaning Congress has only ten days to agree on reform.

ICE agents have killed two Americans in Minneapolis. Two journalists have been arrested. Children have been taken from their homes and U.S. citizens have been unjustly detained. Thirty-five people have died in ICE custody and 15 have been shot.

DHS already received $165 billion in the Republicans’ One Big Bill, with ICE getting a massive $75 billion infusion.

I supported these five bills when we were last here. They are better because of Democratic leadership. But the murder of American citizens by our government forces me to use my leverage in the minority — my vote — to say not one more dime for ICE until their lawless, anti-American behavior ends.”


DeGette Community Project Funding Requests Signed Into Law as Part of CJS and THUD Appropriations Package

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Diana DeGette (CO-01) announced that twelve Community Project Funding (CPF) requests she championed for Denver were signed into law as part of the Commerce, Justice, Science (CJS) and Transportation–Housing and Urban Development (THUD) appropriations packages. Together, this $16,050,000 investment will support cutting-edge research and workforce development, strengthen public safety, expand affordable housing, modernize critical infrastructure, and promote energy efficiency and resilience across the Denver metro area.

“These investments reflect a clear commitment to Denver’s future and were shaped by local leaders and institutions. They demonstrate how federal investments can make a major difference on the ground,” said DeGette. “By funding innovative research, strengthening public safety, expanding affordable housing, modernizing infrastructure, and improving energy efficiency, we are making smart, forward-looking investments that will improve quality of life and create opportunity in Denver. These investments will ensure Denver remains a leader in both economic growth and community well-being.”

The following Community Project Funding requests were included in the final appropriations package:

City and County of Denver: Shelter for People Experiencing Homelessness

Funding Level: $2,000,000

This funding will be used to acquire and operate sites to provide essential public services for people experiencing homelessness, as well as permit and operate 3,000 long-term affordable housing units. This request was also supported by Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper.

University of Denver – Quantum Computing Research and Workforce Development

Funding Level: $1,031,000

This funding will be used to purchase advanced equipment to enhance quantum computing research and support workforce development and economic growth opportunities for students at the University of Denver. This request was also supported by Senator John Hickenlooper.

Regis University – Center for Cyber Security Defense

Funding Level: $1,031,000

This funding will support renovations and equipment for a new, state-of-the-art training space, providing students with high-performance computing infrastructure and AI-driven cyber defense tools to advance education, workforce development, and innovation.

Denver Regional Mobility and Access Council (DRMAC) – Transit to Transformation Program

Funding Level: $30,000

This funding will expand transportation access for individuals reentering society after incarceration, helping remove a key barrier to employment and advance the goals of stability and successful reintegration.

City and County of Denver – Fentanyl Investigation and Interdiction Program

Funding Level: $208,000

This funding will allow Denver to purchase specialized equipment to help investigators identify fentanyl, xylazine, and other emerging synthetic drugs in real time, strengthening efforts to combat the overdose crisis. This request was also supported by Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper.

City and County of Denver on behalf of Denver Health: Central Utility Plant Critical Infrastructure

Funding Level: $1,200,000

This funding will be used to replace the cooling tower at the Central Utility Plant, which is three-years past its useful life. This request was also supported by Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper.

Denver Housing Authority: 655 Broadway, Window Replacement Project

Funding Level: $2,000,000

This funding will be used for the replacement of 670 vacuum-insulated glass windows to promote energy efficiency by reducing heating and cooling needs and ensuring long-term sustainability of the structure at 655 Broadway, which provides 110 units of permanently affordable housing for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Colorado Department of Local Affairs on behalf of the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless: Renaissance at Civic Center Apartments Renovation

Funding Level: $1,200,000

This funding will be used for the renovation of the historic Civic Center Apartments in downtown Denver to include kitchen and private bathroom facilities; repair HVAC, plumbing, and security systems; and maintain 120 units of supportive housing. This request was also supported by Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper.

City and County of Denver: Services for Electrification, Energy Efficiency, and Resiliency

Funding Level: $1,000,000

This funding will be used to provide home energy upgrades for low- and middle-income homeowners and deed-restricted affordable housing in Disproportionately Impacted Communities in collaboration with the local utility and Denver Housing Authority (DHA). This request was also supported by Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper.

City and County of Denver: Energy Efficiency Improvements at City Facilities

Funding Level: $850,000

This funding will be used to conduct the design and construction of building repairs at public facing city facilities to increase their energy efficiency and cooling capacity. This request was also supported by Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper.

RTD: Downtown Track Replacement

Funding Level: $850,000

This funding will be used for the design and replacement of 13,000 feet of rail across eight stations in downtown Denver. This request was also supported by Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper.


DeGette Statement on Voting Against DHS Funding

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Diana DeGette (CO-01) released the following statement ahead of voting against the funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS):

“DHS under Secretary Noem and President Trump is out of control. Federal immigration agents have beaten, detained, shot, and killed immigrants and American citizens. ICE must be defunded and dismantled, and I cannot support another dime to DHS until that happens.”


De La Cruz Votes to End Shutdown, Secure Funding for South Texas

WASHINGTON - Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) released the statement below following her vote to pass the Senate Amendment to H.R. 7148, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026.

"My vote today brings home wins for South Texas while rejecting the chaos of a shutdown. I am proud to invest over $13 million for transportation and critical infrastructure in our communities, while holding the Mexican government accountable for their refusal to meet 1944 Water Treaty deliveries. Now, our focus must be on passing our final funding bill that supports Border Patrol agents and builds on the successes of President Trump's historic border security." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Background:

The Senate Amendment to H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026, includes funding for Defense; Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education; Transportation and Housing and Urban Development; Financial Services and General Government; and National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs. The legislation includes a two-week continuing resolution for the Department of Homeland Security, allowing Congress to continue negotiations.

De La Cruz secured language to ensure funds appropriated through this legislation are not made available to the Government of Mexico until the Secretary of State certifies that Mexico has met their obligated deliveries under the 1944 Water Treaty.

Additionally, De La Cuz secured the following community project funding for Texas's 15th Congressional District:

$5,500,000 for the West Main Drain Project in Edinburg

$2,000,000 for the Military Parkway Expansion Project for the City of Mission

$3,520,000 for the Bridge Operations & Logistics Transformation project in the City of Pharr

$2,300,000 for Seguin Community Center Improvements

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De La Cruz on New Commitment to Secure Water for South Texas

WASHINGTON - Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) released the statement below following the announcement of a new commitment between the United States and Mexico to ensure full compliance with water delivery obligations under the 1944 Water Treaty.

"After years of non-compliance from the Mexican government on 1944 Water Treaty obligations, we have delivered accountability and secured historic water deliveries. I have led the charge for South Texans, working alongside President Trump and Secretary Rollins to demand the certainty our farmers need. Today's announcement, which secures a minimum of 350,000 acre-feet of water annually and consistent, bilateral meetings, is a step in the right direction. Alongside this Administration, I will fight to ensure every drop of our water is secured." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Background:

Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and U.S. Department of State Secretary Marco Rubio announced the Mexican government's commitment to deliver a minimum of 350,000 acre‑feet of water annually and a plan to fulfill outstanding water debt from the previous 1944 Water Treaty cycle. Additionally, the U.S. and Mexico announced they will hold monthly meetings to ensure that timely, consistent deliveries are met.

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DeLauro Votes to Open Government

Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) voted in support of funding legislation to reopen the government following a partial lapse in funding that caused a shutdown over the weekend:

“The funding bill passed today ensures that essential agencies can resume operations in service to the American people: the Departments of Defense, Education, Labor, Health and Human Services, State, Treasury, Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development will all be fully funded through the end of September.

“Collectively, this bill rejects $163 billion in cuts to public services proposed by the Trump administration. It increases investments in biomedical research at the National Institutes of Health by $415 million and provides over $66 billion for rental assistance.

“To support hardworking parents, we increase funding for Child Care and Head Start by $170 million. We reestablish US global leadership with $5.5 billion in humanitarian assistance, and we put meaningful constraints on the Trump administration’s ability to abuse the budget process – reclaiming Congress’s power of the purse and reining in Project 2025 author Russ Vought.

“The legislation includes a ten-day flat extension of Homeland Security funding to pay our TSA workers and Coast Guard servicemembers, while ensuring people recovering from disasters can receive assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

“This extension puts Democrats in the strongest possible position to fight for and win the drastic changes required to crack down on lawless agencies within DHS, including ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

“To start, that means de-masking ICE agents, requiring judicial warrants for arrests, ending deportations and detentions of US citizens, and mandatory body cameras for officers. If Republicans do not agree to a bill that includes meaningful reforms by next Friday, Homeland Security will shut down.

“ICE and CBP must be reined in if we are to protect our communities. We must stop the beatings, harassment, and the terror that ICE has unleashed on communities all over the country, and fight for justice for the deaths of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti.”


DelBene Statement on Government Funding Legislation

Today, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) released the following statement on the government funding bill that passed the House today.

“ICE is terrorizing families in our communities and causing violence across our nation with American tax dollars. The recent horrific tragedies in Minnesota are just the latest examples of an unchecked agency rotting from the head down under Secretary Kristi Noem’s failed leadership. Democrats in Congress are demanding stronger legal guardrails, real oversight, and meaningful accountability. Because of our pressure, the White House is now at the negotiating table to address these concerns.

“Given the lawlessness we’ve witnessed under the Trump administration, I could not vote for legislation that provides additional resources to ICE without much-needed oversight and accountability. Democrats must use the ongoing negotiations over the next two weeks to secure the critical reforms Americans are demanding for ICE. Any potential agreement that comes before the House must protect innocent Americans and rein in this rogue agency.”


DelBene, Obernolte Bill to Increase Organ Donations, Save Lives Signed into Law

Today, bipartisan legislation to increase the number of living organ donors eligible for federal assistance was signed into law. The Honor Our Living Donors (HOLD) Act, introduced by Representatives Suzan DelBene (WA-01) and Jay Obernolte (CA-23), will allow more donors to qualify for wage, travel, and caregiver reimbursement when donating organs.

“No one should be prevented from saving a life because of the bills they incur during the process. This law will help ensure that living donors have the support they need during the donation process and that patients waiting for transplants have a greater chance at receiving one,” said DelBene.

“The HOLD Act removes unnecessary financial barriers that can prevent Americans from becoming living organ donors. No one should be forced to choose between saving a life and absorbing thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs. By ensuring federal support is based on the donor’s circumstances rather than the recipient’s, this law expands access to transplantation, supports donors, and helps more families get the second chance they are desperately need,” said Obernolte.

Income restrictions currently limit who can be reimbursed for becoming a living organ donor. 91% of living donors are forced to shoulder the financial burden of their donation because of the income of the organ recipient. The HOLD Act eliminates these income-based eligibility restrictions, helping ensure that all living donors, regardless of the recipient's financial status, will be able to access the federal organ donation reimbursement program. This law will support the more than 37 million Americans living with chronic kidney diseases, including the more than 800,000 patients with kidney failure.


Deluzio Leads Bipartisan Push for Action on Rail Safety in Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17) marked the three-year anniversary of the Norfolk Southern train derailment by joining with Members of Congress from both parties, union leaders, and local leaders to call for Congress to pass rail safety legislation. Congressman Deluzio called for his bill—the Railway Safety Act of 2025—to pass through committee or to be included in the upcoming must-pass Surface Transportation Reauthorization. Congressman Deluzio represents the people of Beaver County, the Pennsylvania county just over the border from the site of the 2023 derailment in East Palestine, Ohio.

"Three years is a long time. Some people, especially in DC, seem to have forgotten about the 2023 Norfolk Southern derailment: but I haven’t, and I won’t,” said Congressman Deluzio. “The big railroads do not want anything—even our safety—to get in the way of their unending lust for profit at any cost. People in my community and our neighbors in Ohio demand action. We have to make rail safer, and that means standing strong against the corporate power that's working against the rest of us who live or work around the tracks. Enough already: let’s pass my bipartisan, commonsense Railway Safety Act.”

Along with Congressman Deluzio, the event was also attended by:

Congressman Mike Rulli (OH-06)

Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-01), Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials

Congressman John Garamendi (CA-08)

Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17)

Matt Pacifico, Mayor of Altoona, PA

Michael Lombardo, Mayor of Pittston, PA

Greg Regan, President of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL–CIO

Michael Baldwin, President of the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalman, Chairman of the Rail Labor Division of the Transportation Trades Department (AFL–CIO)

Edward Kelly, General President of the International Association of Firefighters

Representatives of other unions and organizations were also in attendance.

Photos of the event are available here, and a video of the press conference is available here.

A member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials Subcommittee, Congressman Deluzio is one of Congress’ most dogged advocates for rail safety. Ever since the 2023 derailment just outside of his Western Pennsylvania congressional district, he has been leading the charge to pass a comprehensive rail safety bill that will make communities and workers safer. Congressman Deluzio co-hosted a roundtable with Republican Michael Rulli to discuss the fight for rail safety with rail workers nearby East Palestine, Ohio last summer

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Elfreth Votes No on Funding ICE

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth (MD-03) voted against an appropriations package, which included a two-week continuation of funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The legislation passed 217-214, ending the partial government shutdown.

“I have been clear that I will not support blank checks for DHS and ICE while it is being weaponized against our neighbors. It does not matter if that funding is for two weeks or two years. Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, we cannot continue to fund this agency that is actively trampling on due process and the civil rights of neighbors across this nation. Their terror and brutality are simply far too great, and we need Republican leadership to come to the table to ensure real accountability and reform,” said Congresswoman Elfreth. “Representing 45,000 federal workers, a government shutdown is never something that I take lightly. I am deeply disappointed that Republicans combined critical funding for health services, housing, Head Start, and servicemember pay with funding for ICE. For our civil servants, servicemembers, and the many families who rely on government programs, we must stop lurching between government shutdowns and playing politics with their livelihoods.”

Prior to the Senate adding DHS funding to this appropriations package, Elfreth voted against the appropriations bill for Homeland Security and voted in favor of the appropriations bills for Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies; Defense; Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies for fiscal year 2026. She has also been outspoken against the weaponization of ICE in Minneapolis and called for the impeachment of Secretary Noem.

Earlier this week, Elfreth shared an update on the partial government shutdown. Due to a 2019 law championed by the Maryland Congressional Delegation, all federal employees are required to receive backpay at the end of a shutdown.

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Ellzey: House Republicans Deliver, Move Nation Away from Shutdown

Washington, D.C. – Today, Houses passed legislation to end the partial government shutdown.

“Once again, House Republicans stepped up and got the job done,” said Congressman Ellzey. “While some in Washington were willing to let the government shut down and create uncertainty for families, workers, and small businesses, our majority came together and delivered for the American people.”

With this vote, the House has now funded 11 of the 12 annual appropriations bills. This covers approximately 96 percent of the federal government. This marks the most significant return to regular order in the appropriations process in many years and fulfills a commitment House Republicans made to govern responsibly.

“This is exactly what Texans expect us to do; pass individual funding bills, bring accountability back to Congress, and keep the government functioning,” Ellzey continued. “This is how Congress is supposed to work.”

Ellzey emphasized that work remains on the final Homeland Security appropriations bill, which funds essential agencies including Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Transportation Security Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Secret Service, and FEMA.

“This final bill is critical,” Ellzey said. “It affects border security, disaster response, aviation safety, and the men and women who protect our communities every day.”

House Republicans have called on the Senate and the White House to continue negotiations in good faith to complete the remaining funding without delay.


Ezell Applauds Passage of 11 Appropriations Bills, Securing Wins for Mississippi’s Fourth District

Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) applauded Congress for advancing 11 of the 12 appropriations bills, a major step toward funding the federal government through regular order and delivering critical investments for national security, border enforcement, disaster readiness, and local priorities — including key wins for Mississippi’s Fourth District.

“For the first time in years, Congress is moving appropriations the right way,” Ezell said. “Passing 11 of the 12 appropriations bills restores accountability, reduces wasteful uncertainty, and ensures taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly. These bills support the men and women who keep our country safe, respect the hard-earned tax dollars of American families, and reflect what I hear back home — protecting our coast, supporting our workforce, strengthening public safety, and making sure Washington works for Mississippi, not the other way around. I look forward to the final bill moving forward and to President Trump swiftly signing these measures into law to complete the return to regular order in Congress.”

Through the appropriations process, Ezell secured targeted funding that will be directed to communities across Mississippi’s Fourth District, supporting local governments, institutions, and critical infrastructure.

District Wins Include:

$5,000,000 to complete the Lower Mississippi River (LMR) Comprehensive Management Study, evaluating long-term management solutions for the Mississippi River from Cape Girardeau to the Gulf of America.

$1,750,000 for Petal Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements in Forrest County, supporting critical upgrades to protect citizens and the Leaf River, a vital waterway in southeast Mississippi.

$1,919,422 for the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Pascagoula Police Department, providing safety and equipment upgrades to strengthen local law enforcement capabilities.

$1,000,000 for Jones County Junior College, benefiting the Ellisville campus and the Napier School of Design and Building Arts.

$4,000,000 for the Coastal Railroad Rehabilitation and Velocity Improvement Project, improving freight movement and rail efficiency across George and Jackson Counties.

$2,000,000 for the Pearl River Community College Road Infrastructure Project, supporting road construction and paving on the Poplarville campus.

$1,000,000 for Perry County Street Rehabilitation, improving three major transportation arteries.

$1,000,000 for Lincoln Road Phase 2, upgrading Lincoln Road from Oak Grove Road to Lamar Boulevard.

$1,000,000 for Edwards Street Reconstruction, rebuilding portions of Edwards Street between Tuscan Avenue and James Street.

$1,426,000 for Geospatial Science for Disaster and Emergency Management (GeoDEM), creating a partnership with the University of Southern Mississippi to strengthen disaster preparedness and resilience statewide.


Fedorchak calls out blue states for policies driving up energy costs, urges FERC action on reliability risks

Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak: First of all, I want to set the record straight for a minute. A lot of blame has been made in this committee on Republican policies driving up energy costs. The other boogeyman for increased energy costs is the big tech companies. This chart (Image 1) shows clearly what's going on. You can't really tell the difference between the grades. But the state in this chart that has the lowest energy costs is my state of North Dakota. That is because we have, in a very principled way for decades, followed simple fundamentals that provide low cost and reliability. Those are your drivers. Cost and need drive the investments in the system. And when you do that over time, you get a result like this.

What happens when you don't do that? You get the results in the blue states. Those states have very aggressive goals. These are also the states that have risk of running out of power, and where you have risks of not having enough gas in your pipelines to meet demand when the weather gets cold like in Winter Storm Fern. These are just the facts of the system. I just wanted to point that out. You all know this. I'm saying this more to colleagues on the other side of the aisle who continually blame us for rising costs.

Secondly, I want to just highlight [these maps]. You are also very familiar with these maps (Image 2). These are the maps of the NERC reliability assessment. This map up here is what drove me to run for Congress. After 12 years as a state utility regulator, seeing the policies that are occurring all over our country—and really the step by step dismantling of our power grid and our systems—I decided I need to take my expertise, come here, and try to fight for just common sense energy policy. That's it. It shouldn't be partisan. This is the fundamental need in our country. It provides the baseline for everything we do. I urge you all to focus on this, because this has gotten worse. We have more parts of the country at high risk and elevated risk of not having enough power to meet demand, and that's today or in the very near future. That is before we even talk about meeting the ever-growing appetite of AI, which is also a very serious national security issue. So whatever you need help with, whatever tools you need to focus on this, consider me as an ally. I want to help you in any way that I possibly can.


Fedorchak votes to advance five bipartisan bills supporting veterans, military families, and VA care

“North Dakota has a high rate of military participation. Our veterans answered the call to serve, and Congress has a responsibility to honor our commitment to them through support systems that meet their needs. These bills focus on practical improvements that help veterans transition into the workforce, modernize education and training programs, improve access to mental health care, and clarify and set time limits on benefit decisions,” Fedorchak said.


Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher Votes Against Federal Funding for ICE

Today, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) voted against a bill, Concurring in the Senate Amendments to H.R. 7148, to fund the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for two weeks, and multiple other federal agencies for Fiscal Year 2026.

“When Americans are being killed, detained, harassed, and silenced by this government, we do not need a two-week negotiation period, we need reforms. Today’s resolution to continue funding DHS for two weeks while negotiating reforms, and funding the remaining government agencies, does not meet the urgency of the moment. There should be no higher priority for this Congress than protecting the people that we represent and the Constitution that we rely on for our rights, and which is being violated daily by officials who have sworn an oath to protect and defend it.”

The bill passed the House by a vote of 217-214 and now heads to the President’s desk for signature.


Congressman Flood: 2026 Congressional Art Competition Theme Focused on America’s 250th Anniversary

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced that submissions are now open for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition in Nebraska’s First Congressional District. The competition is hosted annually by congressional offices across the country to recognize and celebrate student artists from their district.

The Congressional Art Competition is open to all high school students who reside in Nebraska’s First District. The winning entry will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol alongside artwork from students nationwide. Selected runner-up pieces will be displayed in Congressman Flood’s Washington, D.C. office or his Lincoln district office.

“Each year, I am impressed by the creativity and talent of Nebraska’s young artists,” said Congressman Flood. “It is a privilege to highlight their work and to display the best of the best in our nation’s Capitol. I look forward to seeing this year’s submissions as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.”


Community Applauds Congressman Fong for Securing $104 Million for District in FY26 Funding

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Vince Fong (CA-20) voted in favor of the government funding agreement passed by the Senate last week, ending the partial government shutdown and continuing to deliver results for the Central Valley. The legislation enacts five full-year FY26 appropriations bills previously passed by the House and was signed into law by President Trump this afternoon. In total, Congressman Fong secured nearly $104 million for critical local projects across the district.

“I was honored to partner with our community to deliver critical funding for California’s 20th District that strengthens our communities, invests in local water infrastructure, enhances public safety, and reinforces our national security,” said Congressman Fong (CA-20). “Today’s House vote restores fiscal responsibility in Washington by reopening the government, cuts wasteful spending, and makes needed investments throughout the Central Valley. I thank President Trump for signing this important bill into law.”

Local Funding Secured by Congressman Fong in FY26 Appropriations Packages:

Fresno County:

$2,000,000 to establish 3,300 acres of groundwater recharge basins in the Fresno Irrigation District, Consolidated Irrigation District, and Alta Irrigation districts to provide reliable groundwater supplies to farmers as well as local communities.

During wet years, this project will have the ability to recharge over 250,000-acre feet of water in its aquifers, significantly improving the Central Valley water table and supply reliability.

"Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Representative Fong, the $2 million community project funding for the Upper Kings Water Resiliency Project marks a significant step forward in enhancing our Valley’s water security,” said Bill Stretch, General Manager of the Fresno Irrigation District. “These dollars will go towards ensuring that our communities and agricultural industry have reliable access to water for years to come. By focusing on sustainability and resilience, we are not just addressing immediate needs; we are building a foundation for future generations in the Valley.”

Kern County

$3,000,000 for the Kern Council of Governments to advance the Centennial Corridor connector ramp linking southbound SR 99 to westbound SR 58, improving safety, mobility, and freight movement.

$7,000,000 to recapitalize layered tanks at the Air Force Research Laboratory Rocket Lab at Edwards Air Force Base, supporting critical rocket testing infrastructure.

$5,000,000 to pilot AI-enabled software upgrades within the Department of War’s Insider Threat Program, strengthening protections against internal and foreign security threats.

$4,000,000 for the Naval Air Warfare Rapid Capabilities Office to support advanced work at Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, ensuring continued progress in naval aviation and electronic warfare systems.

$15,000,000 to enhance a reusable hypersonic test bed, expanding America’s hypersonic testing capabilities.

$8.9 million to design a new Child Development Center at NAWS China Lake, replacing an outdated facility to meet growing childcare needs.

City of Ridgecrest – Wastewater Treatment Plant Replacement

$1,000,000 to modernize a 70-year-old facility serving Ridgecrest and Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake.

Cerro Coso Community College – Cybersecurity Program

$1,112,250 to establish a new cybersecurity education program supporting workforce development in Kern County.

“Congressman Vince Fong’s leadership in securing $3 million in vital funding for the Centennial Corridor Connector Ramp is a major win for Kern County, strengthening roadway safety, easing traffic flow, and supporting efficient freight transportation between State Route 99 and State Route 58,” said Chairman Phillip Peters of the Kern County Board of Supervisors.

“Securing $3 million in funding for the Centennial Corridor Connector Ramp is a key victory for Bakersfield. I’m grateful to Congressman Fong for delivering this investment, which will make our roads safer, keep traffic moving, and support the businesses and workers who rely on efficient transportation every day,” said Bakersfield Mayor Karen Goh.

“The Thomas Roads Improvement Program (TRIP) team appreciates the continued support from Representative Fong in the form of this appropriation, which will be used to help complete the 8th and final movement at the interchange between Highways 99 and 58,” said John (Jay) Schlosser, P.E., Executive Director. “The Kern Centennial Corridor Freeway Connector Ramp: SR 99 to SR 58, known as the 8th Movement seeks to permit southbound Highway 99 traffic to move west onto Highway 58. Congressman Fong has been a faithful supporter of enhancing mobility in Kern County, including metropolitan Bakersfield, and this appropriation is yet another example of that dedication. With this appropriation, the project is fully funded, and we expect to enter construction in 2027. This project marks the final piece of a 20-year endeavor to dramatically improve access in Bakersfield, a vision and goal made possible by our former congressman, the Honorable Bill Thomas, so many years ago.”

"East Kern has a proud history of flight test and evaluation. The MACH Program builds on this legacy, demonstrating a continued commitment to public-private partnerships that accelerate American capabilities in hypersonic technologies and supporting the companies and entrepreneurs at the leading edge of critical innovation,” said Justin Salters, project lead for East Kern and the Antelope Valley at Griffiss Institute. “We appreciate Rep. Fong’s leadership on the MACH Program and the positive impacts it will bring to our region.”

"As Mayor of Ridgecrest, I know that reliable water and wastewater systems may not always be visible, but they are essential to the health, safety, and daily life of our community. This $1 million investment will help ensure our families, schools, and businesses have safe, dependable service for decades to come. I appreciate the leadership of Rep. Vince Fong and his partnership in securing this funding to strengthen the long-term sustainability and resilience of our city’s infrastructure," said Ridgecrest Mayor Travis Endicott, PhD.

"The infrastructure funding for the AFRL Rocket Lab by Congressman Fong has been critical in ensuring national test capabilities don't atrophy during such a critical time for our nation,” said Dr. Shawn Phillips, retired chief of the Rocket Propulsion Division. “Replacement of aging hardware and upgrades to meet advanced testing needs would not have been possible without this support."

“Congressman Fong’s leadership in these investments will have a profound and enduring impact on both NAWS China Lake, Ridgecrest, and the surrounding communities,” said Stephen Farmer, Executive Director of the China Lake Alliance. “Modern childcare facilities, enhanced wastewater infrastructure, and expanded cybersecurity education at Cerro Coso Community College directly contribute to military readiness by enhancing the quality of life for service members and civilians, while simultaneously fostering a more skilled and robust local workforce. Furthermore, funding for the Navy Rapid Capabilities Office ensures that China Lake will continue its progress in developing critical technologies essential for countering the escalating global threats.”

“Congressman Vince Fong’s leadership in securing $1.1 million for Cerro Coso Community College’s new cybersecurity programming represents a strategic investment in both our students and our region’s future. This funding will enable us to expand career pathways that directly support the workforce needs of Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, other regional defense partners, and public-sector employers. By equipping students with in-demand cybersecurity skills, we are strengthening military readiness, enhancing economic resilience, and creating meaningful opportunities for local residents to serve their community through highly skilled professions. We are grateful for Congressman Fong’s continued advocacy for education as a driver of workforce excellence and national security," said Sean C. Hancock, EdD, President of Cerro Coso Community College.

Kings County

$3,000,000 for the development of a new headquarters for the Kings County Fire Department and Office of Emergency Services, strengthening emergency response and coordination.

Naval Air Station Lemoore

$2,500,000 to support testing of technology that reduces the risk of foreign object debris, improving aircraft safety and operational readiness.

$17,000,000 to design a new F-35 Aircraft Maintenance Hangar at NAS Lemoore, improving maintenance capacity for the Navy’s F-35 program.

City of Lemoore – Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Water Meters

$1,000,000 to improve water conservation, detect leaks, and protect groundwater resources vital to the community and Naval Air Station Lemoore.

“Congressman Fong really came through for Kings County,” said Rusty Robinson, Chairman of the Kings County Board of Supervisors. “The new Fire Department and Emergency Operations Center headquarters will give our firefighters and emergency teams the space and tools they need to better protect our residents. At the same time, continued investment at NAS Lemoore strengthens the base’s mission and supports the service members and families who are such an important part of our community. These projects are a big win for public safety, national security, and Kings County as a whole.”

“The City of Lemoore is truly thankful for the funding that Rep. Fong secured in the FY26 Appropriations cycle for advanced water metering infrastructure.," said Patricia Matthews, Mayor of the City of Lemoore. "Smart water meters provide clear, practical benefits for our citizens. They are focused on efficiency, sustainability and customer service providing early leak detection, real-time usage data, long-term water supply planning, cost savings for the community, improved infrastructure management, transparency, and environmental benefits. This project is huge for the City of Lemoore and is certainly going to help us ensure the long-term viability of our groundwater supply, especially as we continue to work toward mutually beneficial resiliency efforts between the City of Lemoore and Lemoore Naval Air Station.”

Tulare County

City of Visalia – Groundwater Recharge Basin F Project

$2,000,000 to expand stormwater capture, improve groundwater quality in the Kaweah Subbasin, and support a future 248-acre regional park.

City of Tulare – Police Dispatch Expansion Project

$579,150 to expand the Tulare Police Department’s dispatch center, improving emergency response times and officer safety.

Tule River Tribe – Intake Structure and Pipeline Improvements

$1,250,000 to replace aging water transmission infrastructure and ensure reliable, safe water access for the Tribe.

Success Reservoir Enlargement Project

$14,600,000 to finalize operational requirements for the expanded reservoir, improving flood protection and water reliability for Tulare County.

The Joint Explanatory Statement accompanying the bill includes language allowing up to $15 million for NASA’s Making Advancements in Commercial Hypersonic (MACH) Program, following agency evaluation.

The directive prioritizes flight testing and requires NASA to brief House and Senate appropriators within 60 days of enactment.

“The $2 million received in Community Project Funding to the City of Visalia will have a lasting impact on our community,” said Visalia Mayor Brett Taylor. “This investment will strengthen our groundwater recharge capacity, improve stormwater management, and advance a critical component of the East Side Regional Park. We respectfully thank Representative Fong for sponsoring this important funding and for his continued support of Visalia’s infrastructure priorities.”

“On behalf of the City of Tulare, we are grateful for Congressman Fong’s leadership and advocacy on behalf of our community,” said Tulare Mayor Patrick Isherwood. “This investment will directly improve our emergency response capabilities and help ensure our first responders have the tools they need to protect our community and region. Reducing response times and updating dispatch equipment are critical facets of the City’s commitment to service excellence, and securing funding for our dispatch expansion project is an immense achievement that will have a lasting impact on the safety, preparedness, and resilience of our community.”


Foster Statement on Funding Package Vote, DHS Reforms

Washington, DC — Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) issued the following statement on his vote in favor of the funding package that reopens the government, locks in Democratic wins in the budget, and provides a two-week window to negotiate meaningful changes to ICE:

“Today’s vote is a win for Democrats and for the people we represent. This bill rejects the Trump Administration’s proposed $163 billion in cuts to public services, protects hard-won Democratic priorities, and funds an additional seven of my FY 2026 Community Project Funding selections—delivering $8.8 million for my district.

“Importantly, this agreement limits Homeland Security funding to a two-week continuing resolution, giving Democrats critical time and leverage to demand serious reforms and accountability at DHS. Right now, the vast majority of ICE’s funding comes from the One Big ‘Beautiful’ Bill, so prolonging a shutdown would not meaningfully reduce their budget or impact their operations. Passing this bill allows Congress to focus on enacting meaningful reforms to ICE without jeopardizing federal workers' livelihoods or essential government programs."

Democratic wins in the package include:

Public health & research: increased NIH funding and stronger support for mental health and opioid response.

Education & families: increased funding for child care and Head Start.

Housing & homelessness: strengthened rental assistance and homelessness prevention programs.

Infrastructure & security: investments in FAA modernization and air traffic controller staffing.

Reasserts Congress’ power of the purse: reins in the Trump Administration and reasserts Congress’ power over government spending through increased requirements on the use of funds.

More details on these legislative highlights can be found here.

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Reps. Foushee, Adams Introduce Empowering Young Readers Act to Uplift Childhood Literacy

WASHINGTON, DC (February 3, 2026) — Today, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04) and Congresswoman Alma Adams (NC-12), introduced H.R. 7327, the Empowering Young Readers Act of 2026, legislation to create a pilot program that awards grants to nonprofit organizations supporting early childhood literacy programs.

“Our community organizations know how to reach families and engage young learners in ways that spark a love for reading. By empowering these trusted nonprofits with resources to put books directly into children’s hands, we’re creating pathways to literacy that work for real families in our communities,” said Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04). “We know children with books at home have better educational outcomes.Building a nation of readers starts with our youngest learners, and this pilot program will help get books into the hands of children who need them most.”

“Reading opens doors to students, broadening their minds, fostering their creativity, advancing their educations, and growing their futures,” said Congresswoman Adams. “The Empowering Young Readers Act will help expand book access to children, improve literacy rates, and ensure people from all backgrounds have the resources they need to read. I’m proud to introduce this bill alongside Rep. Foushee because a well-read young mind guides students to a bright future.”

Specifically, the Empowering Young Readers Act of 2026 will:

The Empowering Young Readers Act of 2026 is endorsed by Book Harvest, First Book, and Reading is Fundamental.


Rep. Frankel Votes No on Funding for ICE, Demands Major Reform

Today, Rep. Lois Frankel (FL-22) released the following statement after voting no on a measure that would extend funding for the Department of Homeland Security without significant reform to rein in Immigration Customs and Enforcement (ICE).

“President Trump’s immigration enforcement has become a campaign of cruelty--tearing families apart, hollowing out businesses, and paralyzing neighborhoods with fear,” said Rep. Frankel. “While I support the bipartisan agreements we reached in the House to fund most of the government, I could not vote for a package that funds the Department of Homeland Security without immediate reforms to stop ICE from its violations of the law and human rights. Security does not require brutality. Enforcement does not require lawlessness. And our immigration policy should reflect our values—not force us to abandon them.”


Franklin Votes To End Partial Government Shutdown

Congressman Scott Franklin (FL-18) today voted in favor of a measure to end the partial government shutdown and reopen the federal government. The agreement funds five FY26 appropriations bills for the full year: Defense; Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education; Transportation and Housing and Urban Development; Financial Services and General Government; and National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs. It also provides short-term funding for the Department of Homeland Security while negotiations continue.

“Funding our military, protecting our national security, and keeping critical services operating is essential,” said Congressman Franklin. “The House previously passed full-year funding for the entire government. Yet Senate Democrats refused to fund Homeland Security, forcing the House to vote again on the same spending bills. This measure keeps the government open, protects paychecks, and prevents a longer shutdown. Funding the government is a constitutional responsibility. Now we must address Homeland Security funding (again), which includes FEMA, to keep our nation secure.”

Franklin noted the House previously passed all 12 FY26 appropriations bills and the Senate advanced the package with the exception of the Department of Homeland Security. The legislation has now been signed into law by the President.

The measure passed the House by a vote of 217-214.


Fulcher Introduces Bill to Upgrade National Park Emergency System

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) introduced the Making National Parks Safer Act, H.R. 7031. Currently, the National Park Service (NPS) operates 41 911 call centers across the nation. A 2024 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report showed that the NPS had no nationwide plan to upgrade the call centers to Next Generation 911 (NG911) equipment, an Internet Protocol (IP)-based system that is significantly more secure than current operating standards.

“When Americans trek out to explore our country’s great outdoors, they should be able to do so safely and with the knowledge that help is close at hand if an emergency arises,” said Congressman Fulcher.

“The Making National Parks Safer Act delivers critical upgrades to the National Park Service’s call centers, fitting them with Next Generation 911 technology. This system allows dispatchers to receive not only voice calls, but also text messages, photos, and videos—giving responders greater situational awareness before engaging,” Fulcher added. “Whether a visitor has an encounter with a wild animal or obtains an injury on a remote hike, this bill helps ensure first responders have the tools to act swiftly and effectively.”

Congressman Fulcher’s legislation would direct the Secretary of the Interior to access and implement NG911 systems.

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Congressman Gabe Evans Votes to End Partial Government Shutdown, Fully Funds 5 FY-26 Bills, and Delivers Millions in Direct Funding for CO-08

WASHINGTON — Today Congressman Gabe Evans (CO-08) joined House Republicans and Democrats to pass five Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 appropriations bills, along with a short-term two-week Continuing Resolution (CR) for the Department of Homeland Security, once again ending a partial government shutdown.

“The House did its job and passed the final four appropriations bills. However, because Senate Democrats refused to follow through on the bipartisan-bicameral spending package — that they had previously agreed to — House Republicans were once again forced to step in and end a shutdown that should have never happened. Instead of honoring their word, Senate Democrats continue to play reckless political games at the expense of the American people. I’m proud to once again vote in favor of these bills, funding our government, and delivering millions of dollars in secured, meaningful wins for my constituents in Colorado’s Eighth District.” — Congressman Gabe Evans

BACKGROUND

The final four appropriations bills, collectively known as the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2026 — passed the House in bipartisan fashion on January 22, securing FY-2026 funding for Defense; Homeland Security; Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies; (LHHS); and Transportation Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD). With their passage, the House completed its Article I responsibility by passing all twelve FY26 appropriations bills.

The Consolidated Appropriations Act was then sent to the Senate, where every Senate Democrat and eight Senate Republicans voted to block the bipartisan-bicameral negotiated bill abandoning the deal they had previously supported as soon as it reached the floor for a vote.

After days of negotiations, the Senate passed revised legislation including full-year funding for five appropriations measures — Department of Defense, Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, Financial Services and General Government, and National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs, as well as a two-week CR for the Department of Homeland Security.

The five FY-2026 bills and the CR will go straight to the President's desk, where it will be signed into law, as both the House and Senate continue their discussions surrounding FY-2026 funding for the Department of Homeland Security.


Garamendi Pens Article on Nuclear Weapons Oversight in Harvard Law School Journal on Legislation

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Ahead of the expiration of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) on Thursday, February 5th, the last nuclear weapons treaty between the U.S. and Russia, Congressman John Garamendi (CA-08) published an article in Harvard Law School’s Journal on Legislation titled “How Congress Can Stop Worrying and Learn to Govern the Bomb: A New Era of Congressional Responsibilities in Nuclear Weapons Policy,” calling for Congress to reclaim its responsibility for nuclear strategy.

If New START expires, the United States and Russia will no longer have a legally binding limit on the deployment of their strategic nuclear forces for the first time in over fifty years. As the threat of a new arms race continues to grow, nuclear modernization programs continue to spiral in costs, and hawkish voices are calling for a resumption of nuclear testing. Congress must reassert its oversight authority over nuclear weapons policy to challenge the dangerous nuclear status quo.

“For too long, Congress has ceded its constitutional authority to govern nuclear weapons to the Executive Branch. As a result, nuclear weapons treaties are crumbling, nuclear weapons programs’ costs spiral out of control, and the chances of nuclear war have skyrocketed in recent years. It's high time Congress pulls up a seat at the table,” said Congressman Garamendi. “This article serves to make that case to all my colleagues in Washington who care about endless spending of taxpayer dollars and the rising risks of nuclear war around the world.”

In his article, Congressman Garamendi argues that Congress must reassert its constitutional powers over nuclear weapons oversight and play a more active role in shaping nuclear policy. Below is an excerpt from Congressman Garamendi’s article:

“In recent years, Congress has adopted a permissive posture toward nuclear expansion and continued projects despite significant cost growth and timeline overruns. Recently, Congress has tellingly neglected to hold public hearings on major failures and declined to press defense leaders on underlying assumptions about the role of nuclear weapons in national strategy. [...]

“Although Congress has tools to influence nuclear strategy and oversee the development and employment of America’s nuclear arsenal, in recent years, Congress has failed to use them effectively. For example, a recent Strategic Posture Review was conducted by a bipartisan congressional commission but failed to evaluate the key constraint at the core of congressional responsibilities: cost. [...]

“Congress’s approach reflects an increasing deference to military leadership and acceptance of military theories on how weapons could or should be used. It indicates a return to a reliance on the “nuclear priesthood” of past years, rather than on Congress’s own assessment of how to balance the costs and risks of nuclear weapons.”

Garamendi has been a longtime leader on nuclear issues throughout his career. For decades, the Congressman has written and spoken extensively on nuclear weapons and deterrence, proposing sensible legislation to reduce costs and risks to nuclear programs. This year, he included a report on the escalation dynamics of integrating artificial intelligence in nuclear decision-making in the NDAA conference report.

Congressman Garamendi is a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee and a co-chair of the Nuclear Weapons and Arms Control Working Group in Congress. In these roles, the Congressman has spoken forcefully for the elevation of congressional dialogue on nuclear weapons.


Rep. Gillen Statement on Opposition to CR to fund ICE and CBP

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congresswoman Laura Gillen (NY-04) released the following statement after voting against a continuing resolution to fund ICE and CBP.

Republicans’ ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ funded ICE at unprecedented levels and left the agency to operate through 2029 completely unchecked. That is one of the reasons I voted against that bill. I have always believed ICE must operate within the bounds of the law and any law enforcement agency must be held accountable if they abuse their power.

Previous DHS funding bills attempted to put specific reforms in place and accountability for ICE, but after the second killing of an American citizen, it’s clear that those steps are not enough.

We must hold the line and exert our power to get real, meaningful reforms of ICE immediately. The CR does nothing to accomplish those goals and I therefore could not vote for it.

Since Alex Pretti’s killing, it is clear that Congress must also go further and immediately impeach Secretary Noem to bring morality and order to DHS and ensure any reforms are followed. Her lack of leadership and contemptible disregard for Americans' safety have sown chaos and stoked further violence. She must be removed from office to restore security and trust in our communities.