LEADER JEFFRIES ON MEET THE PRESS: “WE’RE SPENDING BILLIONS OF DOLLARS TO DROP BOMBS AND DOING NOTHING TO DROP THE HIGH COST OF LIVING”

Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on NBC’s Meet the Press, where he emphasized that the Trump administration has failed to justify this war of choice in the Middle East, and that Democrats will continue working to make life better and more affordable for everyday Americans.

KRISTEN WELKER: Joining me now is House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York. Leader Jeffries, welcome back to Meet the Press.

LEADER JEFFRIES: Good morning, great to be back.

KRISTEN WELKER: It’s great to have you back. Let’s start with the war in Iran. The United States now a week into this conflict. Do you think the world is safer now that the Supreme Leader is dead?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well certainly as it relates to the Ayatollah, he was a bad actor and I’m not going to shed any tears as a result of his departure. I think the big question is: why did we get into this war? What are our strategic objectives—because they shift every day? And what is the plan to get out of this conflict? The American people don’t want to see billions of dollars being spent to bomb Iran in the Middle East, while at the same period of time, my Republican colleagues and this President are unwilling to spend a dime to lower their grocery bills, spend a dime to actually make it more affordable to go see a doctor or do anything about this affordability crisis that is very real in the United States of America.

KRISTEN WELKER: Well, in talking about the strategy for this war—let me ask you because NBC News is reporting that President Trump has privately considered sending boots on the ground to Iran. Is there any scenario where you would support sending U.S. forces to be on the ground in Iran, Leader Jeffries?

LEADER JEFFRIES: No, and in fact Candidate Trump suggested that under no circumstances should American servicemen and women be put into harm’s way in this particular type of situation, particularly as it relates to another endless war in the Middle East. And we are deeply saddened right now by the loss of six brave and heroic servicemen and women who have already lost their lives and we’ll continue to pray for their families and their loved ones. But the American people deserve answers from the administration as to how we’re going to actually move forward in a way that makes America safer, not more vulnerable.

KRISTEN WELKER: Well, there is a push for congressional oversight, but both the House and the Senate this week rejected a resolution to curb President Trump’s war powers in Iran. And, frankly, even five Democrats joined Republicans to block the resolutions in those chambers. Does that effectively give President Trump a mandate to fight this war?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Not at all. The President, of course, has a responsibility first and foremost to make his case to the American people, which he’s failed to do. There’s a reason why this President is deeply unpopular. His policies, including the One Big Ugly Bill, are unpopular. And this war of choice in the Middle East are unpopular. As Democrats, we’re going to continue to make the case to the American people that we should be stewards of spending their taxpayer dollars in a manner that actually is designed to make their life better and make their life more affordable as opposed to another endless war in the Middle East, where we’re spending billions and billions of dollars to drop bombs and doing nothing to drop the high cost of living.

KRISTEN WELKER: Well your Democratic colleague, Democratic Congressman Jared Golden, is among those who voted to block the resolution. I want to read you a little bit of his statement from this week. He says, quote, ‘the President has so far acted within the authorities given to him by Congress through the War Powers Act of 1973. He has been briefing Congress and he has 60 days to make his case for ongoing operations. This is not an illegal war, but it could become one.’ How do you respond to your House colleague?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well every individual Member, of course, is going to articulate their position. The overwhelming majority of both House and Senate Democrats have made the case to the American people and taken the position that this is a war of choice that Donald Trump decided to get into without any evidence being presented to us as Members of Congress or to the American people that a preemptive strike was necessary to protect the national security of the American people—

KRISTEN WELKER: But do you agree with Golden it’s not an illegal war yet?

LEADER JEFFRIES: No. Jared obviously has a very different position. He’s a hero. He’s fought in the Middle East bravely, and he’s entitled, of course, to his perspective. But as I indicated, the American people are dissatisfied with this war of choice that Donald Trump has decided to enter into. And Donald Trump has not made a compelling case as to why we are in a situation where American servicemen and women, their lives are at risk.

KRISTEN WELKER: Let’s talk about the cost of this war, Leader Jeffries. The White House is reportedly weighing a request to Congress for tens of millions of dollars. Several Senate Democrats have said they’re open to reviewing what the administration requests, arguing it could be critical to military readiness overall. As the Leader of House Democrats, do you plan to block all Pentagon funding even if the argument is it is critical for military readiness?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, we’ll cross that bridge when we get to it in terms of if the administration makes a request to Congress to consider additional funding. But at this particular point in time, the administration has failed to make its case as to the rationale or justification for this war of choice in the Middle East. Listen, Candidate Trump promised that he was not going to get the country into an endless war, particularly in the Middle East, in the aftermath of what we saw in places like Iraq and Afghanistan. President Trump has now done the exact opposite. And absent him actually providing us with a compelling rationale, he’s going to have a difficult case to make on Capitol Hill.

KRISTEN WELKER: Leader Jeffries, let me ask you about another aspect of this. As you well know, President Trump fired Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem this week, something you and other Democrats have been calling for. Democrats continue to block funding for DHS amid these demands that there be changes to ICE and the President’s deportation policies. Is the change in leadership at DHS enough for you and other Democrats to reopen the government and start to fund DHS again?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, again, let’s understand. Republicans control the House, the Senate and the presidency. They’ve made an affirmative decision that they would rather shut down FEMA, shut down the Coast Guard and shut down TSA as opposed to getting ICE under control. What we want is a situation where ICE is actually conducting itself like every other law enforcement agency in the country, as opposed to using taxpayer dollars to brutalize or in some cases kill American citizens and to violently target law-abiding immigrant families.

KRISTEN WELKER: So is replacing Noem a big enough step for you to get to yes?

LEADER JEFFRIES: No it’s certainly not. What we need is a change in policy, not simply a change in personnel. Now, Kristi Noem was a disgrace. She was totally unqualified. She’s a pathological liar. She called American citizens domestic terrorists without any justification whatsoever. But we need dramatic, bold, meaningful and transformational changes to get ICE under control. That’s what the American people want to see. That’s what we’re working hard to deliver.

KRISTEN WELKER: Congressman, there’s a real concern that the Iran strikes may increase the terror risk here in the United States. Republican Congressman Mike Lawler of New York wrote this, quote, ‘Given the situation in the Middle East and the potential for Iran and terrorist proxies to attempt some type of attack, it is imperative that Senator Schumer and Rep. Jeffries immediately drop all opposition to funding the Department of Homeland Security and pass the funding bill. What say you to that argument that this is about the safety and security of U.S. citizens?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, House and Senate Democrats have actually introduced legislation to make sure that every other aspect of the Department of Homeland Security is funded in order to ensure that we are protecting our national security, funding the Coast Guard, funding FEMA, as well as funding TSA. Unfortunately, Republicans have decided that they would block those changes from being put into place in order simply to continue to protect and shield ICE from the type of accountability, the type of dramatic change that’s necessary, things that we’re asking to do that are common sense, like making sure that judicial warrants are required before ICE agents can break into the homes of the American people, ensure that there are independent investigations when ICE agents break the law or even kill American citizens so that there is accountability. We want to make sure sensitive location like schools and hospitals are protected, including other locations like houses of worship and polling sites. These are common sense reforms that are necessary in order to get ICE under control.

KRISTEN WELKER: Leader Jeffries, a couple more. We’re almost out of time. I want to turn to the midterms, the result in Texas this week. State Representative James Talarico, of course as you know, won the Senate Democratic primary against Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett. What message do you have for Black voters who supported Crockett and may feel less enthusiastic about supporting Talarico?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, Jasmine Crockett ran a great race and she’s going to continue to be a powerful voice as we move forward to hold this administration accountable and to push back against the extremism that they’re unleashing on the American people. And I think in her own statement in the aftermath of the results, she indicated that we needed to all come together to make sure that we’re doing what’s necessary to support our Democratic nominee and to win up and down the ballot in Texas and across the country. And that’s what we’ll continue to do—to fight to lower the high cost of living, to fix our broken healthcare system and to clean up the corruption that the Trump Cartel has unleashed on the American people.

KRISTEN WELKER: Leader Jeffries, I have to ask you very quickly because Vice President Kamala Harris endorsed Crockett in that race. After Crockett lost, a former Biden-Harris staffer said of the Former Vice President, quote, ‘her rapidly declining polling numbers are a lagging indicator her lack of political relevancy is a leading one.’ Has Kamala Harris lost her political relevancies, Leader Jeffries?

LEADER JEFFRIES: No, I don’t think so. But look, we’re focused right now on the 2026 midterm elections. And we’re going to do everything we can to make sure we take back control of the House of Representatives, to focus on the issues that matter in terms of dealing with the affordability crisis, to make life more affordable for everyday Americans who are struggling, far too many people, to live paycheck to paycheck. That should not be the case in the United States of America, the wealthiest country in the history of the world.

KRISTEN WELKER: Alright, Leader Jeffries. Thank you so much.

Full interview can be watched here.

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Amata’s Statement Honoring the Life of Gov. Lolo Letalu Matalasi Moliga

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata released the following statement honoring the life and public service of Governor Lolo Letalu Matalasi Moliga.

“I am saddened by the passing of Governor Lolo Letalu Matalasi Moliga. He was a strong and decisive leader. Even more importantly, he was a man of faith.

Governor Lolo with his wife Cynthia and Congresswoman Amata

“I worked with Governor Lolo often in his eight years leading our territory, and I always had great respect for him, and for the will of our people who twice elected him Governor. He was an educator, a businessman, and a longtime dedicated leader among our people, including several key leadership roles before serving as Governor. He has a secure place in American Samoa’s history.

“My deepest condolences to his dear widow Cynthia Moliga, their daughters, grandsons and the entire family and close friends, and to all the people of American Samoa. We mourn his passing, but remember his life, and we are comforted by our knowledge of his faith. May God bless and be near in this time, as he rests in honored peace.”

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Scalise: We Must Get the SAVE America Act to President Trump’s Desk

NEW ORLEANS, La.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) joined Fox News’ Fox and Friends Weekend to address radical Democrats defending the Iranian regime over America, urge the Senate to pass the common-sense SAVE America Act, and highlight House Republicans’ efforts to save college sports through the SCORE Act.

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


BLUMENTHAL SLAMS BINANCE FOR DODGING QUESTIONS ABOUT MONEY LAUNDERING TO IRAN PROXIES & RUSSIA’S SHADOW FLEET

[WASHINGTON, DC] – Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ranking Member of the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), issued the following statement slamming Binance for dodging his questions about recent reporting that the company appears to have helped prop up Iranian-linked terrorist organizations and illicit Russian oil sales:

“This evasive response completely dodges my questions and does little to ease my concerns that sanctioned entities, terrorist organizations, and other criminal actors have been surreptitiously laundering nearly $2 billion using its cryptocurrency exchange since its 2023 consent order. Critical questions about Binance’s firing of internal investigators and its compliance with American sanctions and banking laws remain unanswered. I will continue to demand answers and accountability from Binance for having helped prop up Iranian-linked terrorist organizations and illicit Russian oil sales. Silence on key facts speaks volumes about Binance’s suspected complicity.”

Last month, Blumenthal opened a preliminary inquiry into the illicit use of cryptocurrencies by sanctioned entities, writing to Richard Teng, chief executive officer of Binance, to seek information and records on why the exchange chose to suspend, and in some cases, terminate compliance personnel who discovered illicit Iranian and Russian use of the platform. The full text of Blumenthal’s letter to Teng is available here.

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Markey Welcomes Ruling Against Trump Administration Effort to Terminate Protected Status for Haitians

Boston (March 8, 2026) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today released the following statement after the U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C., ruled against the Trump administration’s efforts to terminate temporary protected status (TPS) for Haiti. Last year, Senator Markey led an amicus brief in the case, Miot v. Trump, urging the court to pause the unlawful Haiti TPS termination and emphasizing the immense public interest served by the presence of Haitian TPS holders in Massachusetts and across the United States.

“Once again, a federal court has blocked the Trump administration from immediately ending Temporary Protected Status for Haitians. The termination of Haiti TPS is cruel, callous, and calculated. TPS is a lifesaving program for helping people and embodies?the American promise?as a land of freedom and refuge. It is clear to all, including to the Trump administration, that Haitian TPS holders cannot return home safely,” said Senator Markey.

“The narrative of the Haitian diaspora in the United States is a story of resilience, hope, and the enduring spirit of a people who, despite facing adversity, continue to contribute to the global tapestry of humanity. Haitian TPS holders are?deeply rooted in our Massachusetts communities—from Mattapan to Brockton. While this latest federal appeals court decision is another victory, we cannot stop fighting to protect our Haitian friends, family members, neighbors, and colleagues.”

On February 2, 2026, Senator Markey previously applauded the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia’s decision to pause the Trump administration’s termination of TPS for Haiti, which was set to expire on February 3. On January 20, Senator Markey and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Co-Chair of the House Haiti Caucus, held a field hearing at Jubilee Christian Church in Mattapan to highlight the importance of extending Temporary Protected Status for Haiti. The lawmakers heard from panels of individuals, advocates, and community leaders impacted by the Trump administration’s decision to end TPS for Haitians.

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Sen. Moran Hosts Meeting with USDA Under Secretary Lindberg on Food for Peace Program

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry – led a meeting with Luke Lindberg, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, and Senator John Hoeven to discuss the department’s temporary administration of Food for Peace and the importance of ensuring the long-term stability of the program at USDA.

In January, USDA and the Department of State signed an interagency agreement allowing USDA to temporarily operate Food for Peace. Sen. Moran has long advocated for transferring the program to USDA and introduced legislation last year to make that change permanent. During the meeting, Sen. Moran, Sen. Hoeven and Under Secretary Lindberg discussed USDA’s plan to execute the interagency agreement, and the resources needed to support Food for Peace moving forward.

“Last year, I led my colleagues in introducing legislation to move Food for Peace to USDA, and the Trump administration is temporarily enacting this policy,” said Sen. Moran. “I appreciate Under Secretary Lindberg providing an update on how the administration of Food for Peace at USDA is going, and I am working to continue garnering support among my colleagues to permanently move the program to USDA. Under the management of USDA, Food for Peace is continuing to fulfill its mission of feeding the hungry, creating important markets for farmers and bolstering our national security, and it’s critical that Congress act quickly to make this move permanent.”

Overview of Sen. Moran’s work on Food for Peace:

Sens. Moran and Hoeven introduced legislation to permanently move the administration of the Food for Peace Program to USDA. Similar language was approved by the House Agriculture Committee this week as part of the House Farm Bill, and it now goes to the full House of Representatives for consideration.

The legislation has been cosponsored by Sens. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.).

Sen. Moran recently applauded the announcement that USDA is partnering with the World Food Programme (WFP) to distribute more than 200,000 tons of U.S. commodities through Food for Peace, a move that supports American agricultural producers and helps combat international hunger.

Sen. Moran questioned USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins about USDA’s willingness to take on the administration of the Food for Peace program. Secretary Rollins stated her support of USDA taking on Food for Peace.

Sen. Moran delivered floor remarks advocating for Food for Peace to be moved to USDA, emphasizing the importance of the program in combatting global hunger.

Sen. Hoeven, USDA Under Secretary Luke Lindberg & Sen. Moran

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Murphy On SOTU: If You Support The Troops, Then You Should Be Voting Against Funding The War

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Sunday appeared on CNN’s State of the Union with Jake Tapper to discuss Donald Trump’s illegal and disastrous war in Iran. Murphy argued against providing a historically incompetent Trump administration with additional funding to carry out a war Americans don’t support. Murphy made clear Trump will fail to contain Iran’s nuclear program, and will succeed only in destabilizing the entire region, putting American troops in harm’s way and steeply raising prices for American families.

Murphy slammed the Trump administration’s increasingly confused and reckless execution of the war, with no coherent plan or defined endpoint in sight: “I think this administration just fails to understand how to achieve any of their objectives. So their objectives shift by the minute. Sometimes we're pursuing regime change, sometimes we're not.”

He continued: “It doesn't look as if we're going to do anything except substitute one hard line leader with another hard line leader, and that, in the end, is going to make Iran a place that continues to engage in provocation throughout the region and against the United States after our military campaign is done. This, in the end, just doesn't seem to achieve anything other than waste a billion dollars a day and drive up prices for Americans here at home.”

Murphy rebuffed Republicans’ tired talking points in favor of giving the Pentagon a $50 billion supplemental for a deeply unpopular war: “Come on. The American people don't want this war. They don't want this war. They have seen what happens when American troops go into places like Iraq, places like Afghanistan. Ultimately, we get a lot of people killed. We waste a lot of dollars. The one thing the American people are clear about is that they do not want the United States dragged into another long term war in the Middle East. If you support the troops, then you should be voting against funding this war so that we get our troops out of harm's way. Virtually nothing good happened from sending thousands of Americans to die inside Iraq in the 2000s and if we don't learn that lesson, then shame on every single one of us.”

Appalled at the deadly strike on an Iranian girls’ school, Murphy warned such shocking violence would eventually have significant national security repercussions for the U.S.: “I think it is likely the United States carried out this attack on this school. I think it's unforgivable under any circumstances, but the fact that this was one of our first targeting decisions, that this mistake was made on the first day of war, I think speaks to the incompetence of our leadership at the Department of Defense. There is also some reporting in the last 48 hours that we hit a desalinization plant. That may be an intentional strike. If we're hitting girls' schools by mistake, and trying to separate the ability of the Iranian people to get clean water, that's a war, ultimately, that's going to give rise to a broader Shia militancy against the United States.”

He made the case that Trump's blunt military approach to stalling Iran’s nuclear program is destined to fail, and risks committing U.S. forces to a permanent presence in the region: “What they fail to understand is that you can't bomb knowledge out of existence. Even if you were to do something wildly dangerous, like putting American ground forces in to try to extract some of their enriched uranium, there's still going to be the knowledge inside Iran, so that if you don't actually succeed in putting a new leader inside that country, they will just be able to rebuild that capacity as soon as American forces are gone. So this is a billion-dollar waste of money every day, as we are pursuing objectives that the administration can't actually effectuate.”

Murphy emphasized diplomacy is the only method which has succeeded in preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon: “What I disagree with is that an aerial military campaign, or even the insertion of ground forces can permanently dislodge Iran from having a nuclear weapon... We had a diplomatic agreement. Barack Obama negotiated an agreement in which Iran was more than a year away from getting a weapon. We had daily inspections scouring the country. It was working! Donald Trump's advisors told him it was working. He threw that agreement into the trash, which precipitated the crisis that we are in today. This was, this is a place where diplomacy probably is the only true path to make sure that Iran doesn't have a nuclear weapon.”

Murphy also previewed whether he’ll vote to confirm Markwayne Mullin as the next DHS secretary: “I won't vote for him in part because I have not yet heard that he's going to make any commitment to clean up the broad illegality at that department. And I think you were right in your questioning of my colleague, Senator Tillis: it doesn't really matter who's the Secretary of Homeland Security. Stephen Miller is calling the shots. A recent judge said that they are violating 96 different court orders. There's still risk of more Americans being killed. They are rounding up and disappearing thousands of legal immigrants to this country. Until we have a Homeland Security secretary and a White House that are committed to ending this illegality, the terrorizing of American communities by the Department of Homeland Security, I'm not going to support anybody who's up for that mission.”

A full transcript of the interview is available below.

Tapper: President Trump is not ruling out sending ground troops into Iran. Joining us now is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Democratic senator, Chris Murphy. Senator, thanks so much for being here.

So, as I just referenced, this morning on Axios, two very well sourced reporters in the administration, Barack Rabin and Mark Caputo for Axios, are reporting that the US is weighing, they have not made a decision, but weighing sending in Special Forces to specifically seize Iran's enriched uranium. You heard Senator Tillis say that might necessitate congressional authorization for use of force. What's your reaction?

Murphy: I mean, this is already a war that is becoming an ongoing disaster. It gets worse if the President is talking about putting ground forces in, talking at that point about dozens, if not hundreds, of new American casualties. I think this administration just fails to understand how to achieve any of their objectives. So their objectives shift by the minute. Sometimes we're pursuing regime change, sometimes we're not. They have been consistent about trying to eliminate Iran's nuclear program. But what they fail to understand is that you can't bomb knowledge out of existence. Even if you were to do something wildly dangerous, like putting American ground forces in to try to extract some of their enriched uranium, there's still going to be the knowledge inside Iran, so that if you don't actually succeed in putting a new leader inside that country, they will just be able to rebuild that capacity as soon as American forces are gone. So this is a billion dollar waste of money. Every single day we are pursuing objectives that the administration can't actually effectuate, including using military force to try to destroy the knowledge that already exists inside Iran to build a nuclear weapon, right?

Tapper: But, but to play devil's advocate here, surely you can bomb enough to degrade their capabilities and also create deterrence? I mean, in 2020, you wrote about Iran after you met with the foreign minister. Quote: ‘I have no delusions about Iran. They're our adversary, responsible for the killing of thousands of Americans and unacceptable levels of support for terrorist organizations throughout the Middle East.’ So you're taking issue with the way this war is being conducted? You take issue with the fact that they killed the Ayatollah and they're taking out the missile facilities and taking out the nuclear enrichment facilities?

Murphy: So there are all sorts of regimes that I oppose around the world, but that doesn't mean that I advocate for the United States military to go in with aerial campaigns and ground campaigns to eliminate that leadership, because what we have vast experience with, especially in the Middle East, is that leads to more destabilization, more problems, more threats against the United States and again, let's be clear, even though Donald Trump says that his goal is regime change. It doesn't look as if we're going to do anything except substitute one hard line leader with another hard line leader, and that, in the end, is going to make Iran a place that continues to engage in provocation throughout the region and against the United States after our military campaign is done. This, in the end, just doesn't seem to achieve anything other than waste a billion dollars a day and drive up prices for Americans here at home.

Tapper: So your former colleague, Senator, now Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, he would say, ‘There is a difference between Iran having a nuclear weapon and all the other regimes you're referring to’ that you oppose their leaders - I imagine you're talking about China and Russia - in that the mullahs in Iran, this is, again, Rubio's characterization, are mad men, and they believe in holy war, and they believe in killing the Crusaders of the United States and the Jews of Israel, and there is a special degree of unacceptability for them having a nuclear weapon.

Murphy: So, yeah, I don't disagree. But what I disagree with is that an aerial military campaign, or even the insertion of ground forces can permanently dislodge Iran from having a nuclear weapon. Again, you were talking about knowledge. That can't be bombed out of existence -

Tapper: So how do you stop it?

Murphy: A diplomatic agreement. We had a diplomatic agreement. Barack Obama negotiated an agreement in which Iran was more than a year away from getting a weapon. We had daily inspections scouring the country. It was working! Donald Trump's advisors told him it was working. He threw that agreement into the trash, which precipitated the crisis that we are in today. This was, this is a place where diplomacy probably is the only true path to make sure that Iran doesn't have a nuclear weapon.

Tapper: So the administration is reportedly weighing Congress to approve an additional $50 billion in funding for these operations. You have said you're a hell no, not just a no on funding the war. We have seen this movie before. We know that that vote will be cast as - especially if you run for higher office - you voting against the troops.

Murphy: Oh, come on. I mean, the American people don't want this war. They don't want this war. They have seen what happens when American troops go into places like Iraq, places like Afghanistan. Ultimately, we get a lot of people killed. we waste a lot of dollars. The one thing the American people are clear about is that they do not want the United States dragged into another long term war in the Middle East. If you support the troops, then you should be voting against funding this war so that we get our troops out of harm's way. Virtually nothing good happened from sending thousands of Americans to die inside Iraq in the 2000s and if we don't learn that lesson, then shame on every single one of us.

Tapper: So new evidence suggests that the US military may have been responsible for a strike on a girls elementary school in Iran. Iranian officials say at least 168 children and 14 teachers were killed. We have not independently verified those numbers. Trump was asked about it, he said he thinks Iran did it. What do you know, as a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and if it was the US, do you think there should be accountability - and do you trust Secretary Hegseth to bring about that accountability?

Murphy: I think it is likely the United States that carried out this attack on this school, I think it's unforgivable under any circumstances, but the fact that this was one of our first targeting decisions, that this mistake was made on the first day of war, I think speaks to the incompetence of our leadership at the Department of Defense. There is also some reporting in the last 48 hours that we hit a desalinization plant. That may be an intentional strike. If we're hitting girls schools by mistake, and trying to separate the ability of the Iranian people to get clean water. That's a war, ultimately, that's going to give rise to a broader Shia militancy against the United States. It was our attacks on civilians, some intentional, some unintentional, inside Afghanistan, giving a second chance to the Taliban.

Tapper: And you think the strike against the girls’ school is a war crime?

Murphy: Well, I think if it's a mistake, it's very different than an intentional strike. So there are undoubtedly mistakes that are made in war. I trust that this was a mistake, but the fact that it was a mistake made on the first day, I just think, speaks to the fact that we don't have serious people right now making decisions at the White House.

Tapper: Before you go, sir, I want to turn to the shake up at the Department of Homeland Security. You work with Senator Markwayne Mullin. Will you vote for him to be the next Secretary of DHS?

Murphy: I won't vote for him, in part because I have not yet heard that he's going to make any commitment to clean up the broad illegality at that department. And I think you were right in your questioning of my colleague, Senator Tillis: it doesn't really matter who's the Secretary of Homeland Security. Stephen Miller is calling the shots. A recent judge said that they are violating 96 different court orders. There's still risk of more Americans being killed. They are rounding up and disappearing thousands of legal immigrants to this country. Until we have a Homeland Security secretary and a White House that are committed to ending this illegality, the terrorizing of American communities by the Department of Homeland Security, I'm not going to support anybody who's up for that mission.

Tapper: Alright. Senator Chris Murphy, Democrat of Connecticut, thank you so much for being here this morning.


Reed, Dem National Security Leaders Issue Joint Statement on Iran School Strike

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee; along with U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee; Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee; Mark Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee; Brian Schatz (D-HI), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Committee Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations; and Chris Coons (D-DE), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Committee Subcommittee on Defense; issued the following joint statement on an apparent strike on an Iranian girls’ school:

“We are horrified by the latest reports concerning the February 28th strike on an Iranian elementary school near the town of Minab, which resulted in the killing of at least 175 people, most of whom were school children. Independent analysis credibly suggests the strike may have been conducted by U.S. forces, which if true, would make it one of the worst cases of civilian casualties in decades of American military action in the Middle East. The killing of school children is appalling and unacceptable under any circumstance. This incident is particularly concerning in light of Secretary Hegseth’s openly cavalier approach to the use of force, including his statement that U.S. strikes in Iran wouldn’t be bound by ‘stupid rules of engagement,’ in his words.

“American servicemembers are governed by strict regulations that are intended to promote the utmost professionalism, so this incident and any like it must be fully and impartially reviewed. Secretary Hegseth needs to ensure the Department of Defense’s ongoing investigation into this strike is thorough, including whether any policy decisions may have contributed to the catastrophe, and provide clear answers to the American public and Congress about how and why this tragedy unfolded.”


Schatz, Murray, Shaheen, Reed, Warner, Coons Statement On Iran School Strike

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Committee Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations, Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Mark Warner (D-Va.), Vice Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, and Chris Coons (D-Del.), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Committee Subcommittee on Defense, released the following statement on an apparent strike on an Iranian girls’ school.

“We are horrified by the latest reports concerning the February 28th strike on an Iranian elementary school near the town of Minab, which resulted in the killing of at least 175 people, most of whom were school children. Independent analysis credibly suggests the strike may have been conducted by U.S. forces, which if true, would make it one of the worst cases of civilian casualties in decades of American military action in the Middle East. The killing of school children is appalling and unacceptable under any circumstance. This incident is particularly concerning in light of Secretary Hegseth’s openly cavalier approach to the use of force, including his statement that U.S. strikes in Iran wouldn’t be bound by ‘stupid rules of engagement,’ in his words.

“American servicemembers are governed by strict regulations that are intended to promote the utmost professionalism, so this incident and any like it must be fully and impartially reviewed. Secretary Hegseth needs to ensure the Department of Defense’s ongoing investigation into this strike is thorough, including whether any policy decisions may have contributed to the catastrophe, and provide clear answers to the American public and Congress about how and why this tragedy unfolded.”

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Reps. Ansari, Grijalva, and Stanton Demand Investigation into Death of Haitian Asylum Seeker Emmanuel Damas Held in ICE Custody

Washington, D.C. — Representatives Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Adelita S. Grijalva (AZ-07), and Greg Stanton (AZ-04) sent a letter to outgoing U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem demanding a full investigation into the death of Emmanuel Damas, a Haitian asylum seeker who died after reportedly being denied adequate medical care while in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody after complaining about a toothache to facility staff.

Mr. Damas had been detained for four months at the Florence Correctional Center in Arizona. According to reports, beginning on February 12, 2026, he told facility staff he was experiencing severe tooth pain and repeatedly requested medical care. On March 2, 2026, he ultimately passed away from a septic infection.

In their letter, the lawmakers highlight the adverse consequences of the Trump Administration’s rush to expand detention capacity on the health of detainees, noting that Mr. Damas was the tenth person to die in ICE custody just two months into 2026.


Arrington Secures Significant Wins for West Texas in the 2026 Farm Bill

Washington, D.C. – House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) issued the following statement after the Farm, Food, and National Security Act, also known as the Farm Bill, advanced out of the House Agriculture Committee. The Farm Bill included Arrington's USDA Communication Regarding Oversight of Pesticides (CROP) Act of 2025and a pilot program aimed at incentivizing cotton harvesting, which Arrington co-led with Rep. Ronny Jackson:

“Last year, I was proud to deliver historic wins for American agriculture through passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill — strengthening the farm safety net with a historic $66 billion investment, boosting reference prices and crop insurance, promoting trade, and securing long-overdue SNAP reforms.

“We’re building on that success with the 2026 Farm Bill.

“This year’s Farm Bill authorizes the remaining agriculture programs not included in H.R. 1 and advances key provisions I’ve fought for — including my USDA CROP Act to give producers a stronger voice in pesticide decisions and a pilot crop insurance program that will incentivize farmers to bring their cotton to harvest. It strengthens trade promotion, supports new farmers, invests in conservation and precision agriculture, and continues holding states accountable for SNAP mismanagement.

“After years of Farm Bill inaction — with Democrats holding our farmers hostage to protect bloated and broken welfare programs — we changed the equation. By securing the core agriculture reforms last year, we removed the political leverage that had long blocked meaningful change and we delivered real results for Rural America.

“West Texas producers deserve certainty. The Farm Bill should be about farmers — and that’s exactly what Republicans are delivering.” – Chairman Arrington.

Background:

USDA Communication Regarding Oversight of Pesticides (CROP) Act of 2025:

This Farm Bill includes Rep. Arrington’s bill requiring the USDA Office of Pest Management Policy (OPMP), which frequently communicates with producers, to have a meaningful voice in the regulation of crop protection products.

Currently, the OPMP provides feedback to the EPA on the safe use of crop protection products, but EPA is not required to respond or consider OPMP’s guidance, giving the EPA disproportionate input in regulation.

The USDA CROP Act will create a more equitable balance of USDA and EPA input, ensuring that regulations reflect both producer and environmental considerations.

U.S. farmers and ranchers are coping with record inflation and broken supply chains — the last thing they need is the severe limitation of traditional farming tools and methods. If these producers lose the ability to use certain crop protection products, farms will be forced to forgo conservation practices, like no-till farming, and revert to full tillage methods to control pests.

It is vital that OPMP, which coordinates frequently with producers, has a role in this process to help EPA use the best science possible in conducting pesticide registrations and rulemakings to ensure users are not subjected to unnecessary, unscientific conditions.

Harvest Cost Endorsement:

The Farm Bill includes a pilot program known as the Harvest Cost Endorsement which would advance a new risk-management proposal developed by cotton farmers with strong support throughout the cotton supply chain.

This program would allow cotton producers to purchase additiona coverage on existing policies and receive an indemnity payment if annual production falls significantly below their Actual Production History (APH).

To receive an indemnity payment, producers would be required to bring their crop to harvest, providing ginners, shippers, and warehouses more certainty on available cotton in the marketplace.

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Bacon, Larson Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Provide Tax Relief and Lower College Costs for AmeriCorps Volunteers

Washington – Kicking off AmeriCorps Week, Reps. Don Bacon (NE-02) and John B. Larson (CT-01) introduced the bipartisan Segal AmeriCorps Education Award Tax Relief Act. Their legislation would provide tax relief for AmeriCorps members who earn Segal Education Awards through their service to help pay for higher education costs and reduce barriers for young people to access the financial assistance they’ve earned.

“I’m pleased to join Rep. Larson in reintroducing the bipartisan Segal AmeriCorps Education Award Tax Relief Act to ensure AmeriCorps volunteers receive the full value of the education benefit they earn through service,” said Rep. Bacon. “These dedicated Americans shouldn’t have to pay taxes on a benefit they receive while in turn providing valuable services for our country. We don’t make Pell Grant recipients pay taxes on their grants, and neither should these individuals.”

“AmeriCorps members serve our country on behalf of communities in need, and our nation has a responsibility to reward them with an education benefit that both shows our appreciation for their work and significantly reduces college costs,” said Rep. Larson. “Unfortunately, the current federal tax on the Segal award diminishes its value and undermines the original intent of the program to help AmeriCorps alumni overcome financial barriers and afford a college education. I am proud to introduce this legislation, originally championed by my late friend and colleague, Rep. John Lewis, and work with my Republican colleague Rep. Don Bacon to correct this injustice, encourage more young people to pursue national service, and advance real solutions to lower higher education costs.”

AmeriCorps members who complete a full term of national service can earn a Segal Education Award to help pay for current education expenses or repay student loans. The award is generally valued at the maximum Pell Grant amount ($7,395 for 2026–27) for that year and expires seven years after the AmeriCorps service term ends. However, unlike Pell Grants, Segal Education Awards are currently considered taxable income, creating a barrier that may discourage young people from taking advantage of the financial assistance they’ve earned.

This legislation would exclude Segal Education Awards from federal taxable income, honoring the intent of federal education awards, helping recipients pay for higher education, and removing this financial barrier.

The bipartisan Segal AmeriCorps Education Award Tax Relief Act is endorsed by 64 organizations, including Voices for National Service, Habitat for Humanity International, the National Youth Leadership Council, Serve Connecticut, and Teach for America.

“The tax on the AmeriCorps education award creates an unexpected and unfair tax burden on the dedicated Americans who commit to serving their country through AmeriCorps. It’s essentially a tax on service. We don’t tax Pell Grants or GI Bill Benefits, and we shouldn’t tax the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award. We’re grateful to Representatives Don Bacon and John Larson for leading the effort to make the award tax free so AmeriCorps members can receive the full value of the benefit they’ve earned, and we urge their colleagues to support the bill,” said AnnMaura Connolly, President of Voices for National Service.

Full text of the bill is available HERE.

A full list of endorsing organizations is available HERE.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 9, 2026

Contact: Jin.Choi@mail.house.gov

Rep. Barragán’s Statement on the Release of the Two Teen Mariachi Musicians from ICE Detention During Congressional Oversight Visit

DILLEY, TEXAS – Representative Nanette Barragán (CA-44) released the following statement on the release of the Gámez-Cuéllar family during a Congressional oversight visit at the Dilley Detention Center today:

“Relieved that we were able to bring the Gámez-Cuéllar family back home safely from the Dilley Detention Facility. They should never have been detained in the first place. Antonio and Caleb, two of the Gámez-Cuéllar children, are wonderful high school mariachi musicians who recently performed at the U.S. Capitol. Their family did everything by the book. They had passed their credible fear interview and had an outstanding asylum case — they never missed a court date or check-in.

ICE released the family to us during our Members’ visit to the facility to conduct congressional oversight. I’m glad the family is out and on their way home.

Let us NOT forget there are many more like them.”

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Barrett Applauds Trump Administration’s Expansion of Faster VA Appointment Scheduling

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) today applauded the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) announcement that all VA facilities are now using a simplified scheduling interface to book appointments for veterans more quickly. The news aligns with the goal of legislation Barrett is leading, the Community Care Scheduling Improvement Act (H.R. 3482), which recently passed out of committee.

"The VA's expansion of the streamlined scheduling system is welcome news for veterans," said Barrett. "Too often, veterans are left waiting while staff place lots of phone calls back and forth between veterans and providers to find available community care appointments. I personally experienced this frustration, which is why I introduced the Community Care Scheduling Improvement Act last year. I'm proud the VA is adopting the reforms from my bill, and I will continue pushing to get this bill signed into law to make sure these improvements are fully and permanently implemented for every veteran.”

The External Provider Scheduling (EPS) system is a single digital interface that enables VA staff to simultaneously view available appointments at participating community care providers — health care providers outside the VA. The unified system allows staff to find veterans the best, earliest available appointment at either the VA or a community care provider, reducing wait times. The VA also announced that it is getting more community care providers to share their appointment information for EPS.

Under the previous system, the process to book an appointment for a veteran could take days or weeks as a result of VA staffers only being able to book a handful of community care appointments each day. The EPS system will enable all VA employees to book as many as 25 appointments per day. The system has existed for several years, but it was previously not deployed at most VA facilities.

The Veterans Community Care Scheduling Improvement Act (H.R. 3482), which Barrett introduced last May, would permanently reduce health care wait times for veterans by mandating nationwide implementation of EPS.

Currently, 27,000 community care providers have already opted to share their scheduling information for EPS, and the VA is continuing to expand that list. Providers can learn more about how to participate by clicking here.


ICYMI: Barrett, AFP Michigan Call for Breaking the Status Quo to Fix Our Broken Health Care System

In case you missed it, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) and Americans for Prosperity-Michigan State Director Tim Golding wrote an op-ed in The Argus-Press discussing how to lower health care costs for Michigan patients. In the piece, the pair highlight the serious problems with the status quo under Obamacare, which has made health care less affordable, as well as possible solutions to disrupt that status quo and put patients first.

Making Health Care Affordable Again is one of the pillars of Barrett’s Blueprint for a Better America.

You can read the op-ed here or below.

Michigan families are sick and tired of the prices they have to pay for health care — to their insurance companies and out-of-pocket bills for appointments, medicine, and treatments. To lower health care costs, we must address the deep-rooted problems created by failed government policies. We need to break the status quo to fix our broken health care system.

Politicians promised the Affordable Care Act would make health care more affordable. The exact opposite happened. In the dozen years since the law took effect, large insurance companies have raked in record profits while denying more claims to regular Americans. Families were told the system would put patients first. Instead, insurers wrote themselves a blank check — and Michigan families are paying for it through rising premiums, denied claims, and mounting medical debt.

The numbers tell a clear story of just how broken our system is. Average family premiums have climbed from less than $16,000 in 2012 to almost $27,000 today — all while Obamacare has been the law of the land. Deductibles have also continued to rise, forcing families to pay thousands out of their own pockets before coverage kicks in. Meanwhile, in the same period, insurance companies’ revenues and profits have skyrocketed. In 2023, the nation’s largest health insurers collectively generated well over $1 trillion in revenues.

To make matters worse, claim denial rates have risen steadily, with some insurers rejecting nearly one in five claims on the individual marketplace. For families facing tragedies like cancer, chronic illness, or emergency care, the fight isn’t just about getting better; it’s about getting their insurer to pay.

Supporters of the Affordable Care Act often point to the COVID-era “premium tax credits” as a fix to the broken system. But these corporate payouts didn’t fix the problem — they entrenched it. The money never went to patients. It went straight to insurance companies, shielding them from competition and rewarding higher prices with larger taxpayer-funded payouts. When subsidies rise automatically alongside premiums, insurers have little incentive to control costs. Michigan families deserve better than a system that masks rising costs with taxpayer dollars while insurers pocket the difference.

We don’t need to accept this failed status quo. We need to boldly rethink the way we deliver health care in this country, and that starts with common-sense reforms that prioritize the patients.

First, Americans need real transparency for prices and claim denials. Patients should know the cost of care before receiving it, just as they would for any other service. They should also know how many claims insurance providers are denying before choosing their plan. When hospitals and insurers are transparent, competition can finally work. High-quality, affordable providers will thrive, and those that overcharge will be forced to change.

It’s critical that we demand accountability from insurers who game the system. When insurers deny legitimate in-network claims, they should face real consequences. Congress should also reform the medical loss ratio — the share of premiums that must go to actual health care rather than overhead and profits. Currently, insurers are gaming the ratio by buying up hospitals and pharmacies to make their profits look smaller while jacking up their prices. Meanwhile, as much as one-third of the money Americans spend on health care is wasted in our broken system. Your premium dollars should fund care, not bloated executive compensation. It’s ridiculous that families pay so much for coverage only to fight tooth and nail when they actually need it.

Expanding health savings accounts and making them more accessible for all Americans is another essential step. These tax-exempt accounts bypass insurance companies and allow families to own their health care dollars, not lose them when they change jobs or plans.

The Affordable Care Act promised affordability and patient-centered care. What it delivered was record profits for insurers, and record costs, denials, and debt for Michigan families. The system is broken, and propping it up with more subsidies won’t fix it.

Frustration with this system crosses party lines. Americans of all backgrounds are fed up with paying more and getting less. It’s time to admit the failure, reject the status quo, and pursue reforms that return power to where it belongs: with patients and their doctors.


Bergman, Golden, Bacon, Suozzi Introduce Bill to Formally Review Mental Health Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans

Reps. Jack Bergman (MI-01), Jared Golden (ME-02), Tom Suozzi (NY-03), and Don Bacon (NE-02) have introduced the bipartisan Improving Mental Health Support for Servicemembers and Veterans Act, which would launch a formal review into the effectiveness of the federal government’s mental health programs for Veterans and transitioning servicemembers in an effort to address longstanding accessibility issues.

“I’ve seen firsthand how the transition from active duty to civilian life can be one of the most vulnerable periods in a servicemember’s career. We owe our men and women in uniform more than gratitude - we owe them accountability and results,” Bergman said. “The Improving Mental Health Support for Servicemembers and Veterans Act ensures the Department of War and VA are working together effectively, eliminating gaps and duplication, and delivering real access to mental health care when it matters most. By requiring measurable standards, regular review, and transparency to Congress, this bill strengthens the transition process and helps ensure no Veteran falls through the cracks.”

“When I came home from the Marines, I saw how important it is to have a strong support system in your corner. The VA is full of skilled public servants who do that work, but there’s only so much an individual employee can do about the fundamental gaps in service created by an imperfect system,” Golden said. “I’m grateful for the partnership of Congressmen Bergman, Bacon and Suozzi in the effort to show VA leaders just how lacking the agency’s outreach, rural logistics, and staffing efforts have been.”

“Too many veterans and service members fall through the cracks when transitioning from active duty to civilian life. We have to do better,” Suozzi said. “It’s our responsibility as lawmakers and Americans to make sure that everyone who serves our country receives the healthcare, including mental healthcare, they deserve,” said Suozzi. “It’s common sense to assess and improve veterans’ health services of all kinds as time goes on. This bipartisan bill does just that, and I’m glad to join my colleagues, Congressmen Golden, Bergman, and Bacon, who I also thank for their service. Never forget the vet!”

“The transition to civilian life is one of the most vulnerable periods in a servicemember’s career. We must ensure our mental health screening tools are validated, effective, and connecting people to care,” Bacon said. “The Improving Mental Health Support for Servicemembers and Veterans Act strengthens oversight, improves coordination between the Department of Defense and the VA, and helps ensure no servicemember falls through the cracks. I’m pleased to co-lead this bipartisan legislation with Rep. Golden on this important effort to better support our servicemembers and veterans.”

The Improving Mental Health Support for Servicemembers and Veterans Act would require the Department of Defense-Veterans Affairs Joint Executive Committee (JEC) to assess the effectiveness of their programs and processes in facilitating access to mental health services for veterans returning to civilian life.

Included in JEC’s review would be a complete inventory of the government’s mental health programs, along with metrics, milestones and plans of actions to identify inefficiencies and gaps in programming. There would be a 180-day deadline to present the report to the House and Senate Veterans Affairs Committees.

The legislation would also require the JEC to update its existing Joint Separation Health Assessment (SHA) every two years. The SHA currently uses an outdated process to infrequently catalog veterans’ generalized health needs — an issue that forces policymakers to contend with data that isn’t specific nor timely enough.

“The American Legion is proud to support the Improving Mental Health Support for Servicemembers and Veterans Act,” Matthew Jabaut, chairman of the American Legion’s National Legislative Commission said. “On behalf of our nearly 1.5 million members, we commend Representative Golden for advancing oversight-driven reforms that reinforce mental health support and help ensure no servicemember or veteran falls through the cracks.”

“We are happy that Congressman Jared Golden continues to focus on mental health for our Service Members and Veterans,” said Steve SanPedro, national legislative committee member and chief of staff for the Department of Maine Veterans of Foreign Wars. “These invisible injuries need to be addressed so these men and women can live a healthy life after service to their country.”


Carbajal Announces Significant Federal Funding for San Luis Obispo County Infrastructure Projects

U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) announced he secured significant federal funding for two infrastructure projects in San Luis Obispo County. Projects include improvements to the Shell Beach Road shared use path and City of Morro Bay’s stormwater system.

“Securing these federal investments is about strengthening the everyday safety and quality of life for residents across San Luis Obispo County,” said Rep. Carbajal. “Extending the Shell Beach shared use path will give residents and visitors a safer, more accessible way to move along our coastline, while Morro Bay’s storm‑drain upgrades will help protect homes and businesses from the kind of devastating flooding we’ve seen in recent years. These projects represent a step forward in ensuring San Luis Obispo County’s infrastructure is upgraded to meet the needs of the community.”

The San Luis Obispo Council of Governments (SLOCOG) has been awarded $2,000,000 to extend the shared use path 2-miles north to the intersection of Shell Beach Road and Avila Beach Drive. The Shell Beach Road shared use path extension will improve safety for bicyclists and pedestrians, enhance local and regional mobility, and increase access to retail and commercial services, coastal access points, and trailheads along the corridor.

“We’re thrilled this multimodal pathway will provide a key regional connection through one of the most congested areas in SLO county. It will link the new roundabout on the Avila Beach Drive & Hwy 101 intersection near the Bob Jones pathway to points south in Pismo Beach and beyond in South County,”said Pete Rodgers, Executive Director at SLOCOG.

The City of Morro Bay has been awarded $250,000 to repair and upsize storm drains, enhance resilience against floods by rerouting lines and constructing new drains. The City of Morro Bay experienced heavy flooding along its Main Street business and residential corridor on January 9, 2023, and March 10, 2023. During these storms, the City’s storm drain system failed to convey water out of the flood zone and other areas.

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Congressman Salud Carbajal for his unwavering support and dedication to the city of Morro Bay. We are proud to announce that our city will receive $250,000 in funding aimed at crucial storm drain repairs and strengthening our resilience against future storms. This funding is vital for maintaining and improving our storm drainage system, which is essential to protecting our community from flooding and ensuring the safety of our residence. We are incredibly thankful for Congressman Carbajal‘s continued advocacy for Morro Bay. The funding underscores our commitment to building a safer and more resilient community. Thanks to his support, we can take significant steps towards safeguarding our city and improving the quality of life for all residents,” said Carla Wixom, Mayor of Morro Bay.

The funding, which Carbajal championed over the course of the past year’s federal budget negotiations, was signed into law as part of the annual government appropriations process.


Carbajal Announces Significant Federal Funding for Ventura County Projects

U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) announced he secured significant federal funding for two public projects in Ventura County. Projects include developing a new park near Ojai and an interim shelter in Ventura.

“These federal investments will strengthen the well‑being of communities across Ventura County,” said Rep. Carbajal. “The new Meiners Oaks Botanical Park will give local kids and families a safe place to learn and play, while Ventura’s interim shelter will expand critical support for people experiencing homelessness. Together, these projects help build a more compassionate, resilient, and connected Ventura County.”

The County of Ventura has been awarded $850,000 to construct a nature-based park at 312 E. El Roblar Drive in Meiners Oaks, an unincorporated community adjacent to the City of Ojai. The Meiners Oaks Botanical Park will be a 2-acre “wild” park, designed for kids and families.


Case Opposes Onerous Additional Information Requirements For Visas To Visit The U.S.

(Honolulu, HI) – U.S. Representative Ed Case (HI-01), a member of the House Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on Homeland Security with funding and oversight jurisdiction over the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is opposing a proposed DHS rule which would impose onerous additional data collection requirements on residents of various countries including our allies and partners applying for visas to travel to the United States.

“These additional requirements represent a fundamental shift in the entry process for lawful travelers to our country,” said Case.

“They would have the effect of chilling a broad range of travel to our country with indiscriminate blanket requirements that would unnecessarily harm key international-travel-related industries such as travel and tourism, education, and trade, especially with our closest allies and partners.”

In his letter to soon-exiting Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rodney S. Scott (see attached), Case explained that “while security enhancements are important, the breadth of these requirements risks creating a perception of complexity, intrusiveness and unpredictability,” and “risks imposing unnecessary burdens on lawful international travelers [which] could have disproportionate economic consequences for the State of Hawai‘i.”

Currently, travelers applying for visas from countries designated for participation in the Visa Waiver Program (Program), which eases travel requirements from allies and partners with no significant security or overstay risks, use the Arrival and Departure Record (Form I-94) and the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) to enter the United States. Under the proposed rule, these applicants would also have to disclose five years of social media data, extensive historical contact information, detailed biographical information about family members and expanded biometric identifiers.

If adopted, the proposed rule would affect travelers from 42 countries listed in the Program, including Japan and the Republic of Korea (full list here).

“Travel and tourism is and will remain Hawaii’s primary economic driver,” said Case. “Because of our geographic isolation and limited economic diversification, lawful domestic and international travel is foundational to our fiscal stability, workforce participation and small business ecosystem. In 2025, Hawai‘i welcomed approximately 9.6 million visitors and Honolulu’s industry and visitor spending generated $12 billion in economic activity, supported 64,000 jobs and contributed $1.9 billion in federal, state and local tax revenue.

“International travel remains an important component of Hawaii’s visitor industry. While overall visitor spending has increased, key international markets remain significantly below pre-pandemic levels. As Hawai‘i continues its recovery and works to rebuild these relationships, maintaining a predictable and efficient entry process for lawful travelers is critical to supporting jobs, small businesses and public revenues across our islands. The last thing we need now is unnecessarily restrictive travel requirements that send international travelers elsewhere with no return on our national security.”

Case urged DHS to “reconsider and revise this proposal to ensure that enhanced security measures are narrowly tailored and do not unintentionally deter lawful travel. I further request meaningful consultation with Hawaii’s state and local leaders, hospitality industry representatives and economic stakeholders before finalizing any changes to ESTA or I-94 requirements.”

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CLARKE, HAITI CAUCUS DEMAND ANSWERS FROM DHS ON DEATH OF HAITIAN NATIONAL IN ICE DETENTION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

March 9, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT:

e: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov

c: 202.913.0126

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Co-Chairs of the House Haiti Caucus, wrote to the Department of Homeland Security’s leadership demanding answers on the circumstances surrounding the death of Emmanuel Damas while in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Mr. Damas, a 56-year-old asylum-seeker from Haiti and father of two, was detained by ICE in September of 2025 and later transferred to the Florence Correctional Center, a facility operated by the private corrections company CoreCivic. In mid-February, while detained at the facility, Mr. Damas reportedly began experiencing severe tooth pain and requested medical care. According to his family, despite repeatedly reporting his symptoms, he was not referred to a dentist and was only provided pain medication. Over time, the infection reportedly worsened and spread beyond his tooth, eventually affecting his neck, lungs, and bloodstream. Mr. Damas was ultimately rushed to a hospital in Scottsdale, Arizona, where he was placed on a ventilator and remained in a coma for several days before passing away.

“The death of an individual in federal immigration detention is a serious matter that demands transparency, accountability, and a thorough investigation. Individuals in government custody rely entirely on detention authorities for access to medical care. The failure to provide appropriate treatment for a potentially serious infection represents a grave lapse in duty and undermines public confidence in the oversight and management of immigration detention facilities,” wrote the Co-Chairs. “Mr. Damas’s death is a tragic loss for his family and loved ones. His case underscores the importance of ensuring that all individuals in federal custody are treated with dignity and provided with timely, appropriate medical care. We urge DHS and ICE to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into this matter and to take all necessary steps to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.

Full text of the letter can be found HERE.

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Higgins Introduces Legislation to Stop Unsolicited Mail-in Ballots, Petitions President Trump for Support

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) introduced the Mail Ballot Integrity Act, which would safeguard elections by prohibiting states from sending unsolicited mail-in ballots to voters.

This legislation allows voters to request mail-in ballots for reasons such as illness, disability, military service, or travel, and establishes a uniform national standard for federal elections. Read the text here.

“Trustworthy elections are a cornerstone of our Republic. Our bill would end mass delivery of unsolicited mail-in ballots for federal elections,” said Rep. Higgins. “President Trump has made it clear that trust in our electoral system must be restored, which includes reforming mail ballot processes and passing the SAVE America Act.”

Alongside the introduction of the Mail Ballot Integrity Act, Congressman Higgins sent a letter to President Trump highlighting the legislation and calling for the White House’s support.

“In your powerful State of the Union address on February 24, 2026, you articulated the urgent need to eliminate ‘crooked mail-in ballots’ except in legitimate, limited cases such as illness, disability, military service, or travel…I respectfully ask that you give the Mail Ballot Integrity Act your full and fair consideration,” wrote Rep. Higgins.


Congressman Cohen Seeks Answers from Veterans Affairs Secretary Collins

WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today wrote to Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins seeking information about claims backlogs and the department’s accountability. He wrote that while getting claims below 100,000 was a “productive milestone,” he is concerned about declining accuracy rates for the claims processed in recent months.

The letter reads in part:

“The enactment of the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxins (PACT) Act in 2022 led to an unprecedented number of claims, as more veterans were finally able to access the benefits earned through their service. This naturally led to a temporary increase in the claims backlog. As time has passed, it seems we have come to a natural decrease in the rate of submissions, allowing for a decrease in the backlog of claims.

“While veterans deserve to have their claims reviewed as quickly as possible, they also deserve accurate claims review, with processors given enough time to ensure that their claim is done properly. In the most recent status report on the detailed claims dashboard dated February 28, 2026, the claims backlog stood at 94,611. As previously stated, I am glad to see that number continuing to decrease. However, I am troubled by another statistic on the same dashboard: three-month claim-based accuracy appears to be trending down and now stands at a startling 81.73 percent.”

The three-month claim-based accuracy represents the percent of claims that are processed without errors over the past three months. The accuracy rate indicates that nearly 1 in 5 claims being processed have errors, drastically exceeding a 10-year average of approximately 1in 9.

Congressman Cohen asked eight questions to clarify issues involving claims appeals, the use of artificial intelligence in claims reviews, and the impact of staffing reductions on the handling of veterans’ claims, among other matters.

See the entire letter here.

# # #


Davids Announces Major Grant to Replace, Rehabilitate Bus Services in Kansas City

Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded $13.3 million to the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) to purchase replacement buses and rehabilitate a local bus facility in the Kansas City region. The award stems from the recently passed bipartisan funding agreement for Fiscal Year 2026, which Davids helped pass.

“This new federal investment means safer, more reliable buses and better service for the Kansans who depend on public transit every day,” said Davids. “Whether it’s getting to work, school, or a doctor’s appointment, strong transit systems keep our communities moving. I’m proud to help deliver bipartisan results that bring real improvements home to the Kansas City region.”

Through the Department of Transportation, the Federal Transit Administration’s Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Program provides funds to state and local transit agencies across the country to revitalize and purchase buses and vans for transport purposes and renewing previous bus transport facilities.

“We are grateful to our bistate congressional delegation for working so hard to earn this grant award and for their continued support of mobility in the Kansas City region, especially as we prepare for the World Cup,” said Chuck Ferguson, Interim President and CEO, KCATA. “We also appreciate the continued partnership with Unified Government Transit and Johnson County Transit. Together, we are committed to improving transportation options that connect people to opportunities. This grant will improve mobility for thousands of transit riders who depend on bus service every day, expanding access to employment, education, healthcare, and other important services in their communities.”


Dean, Lee Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Improve Law Enforcement Investigations of Child Exploitation

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Madeleine Dean (D-PA-04), Laurel Lee (R–FL-15), Steve Cohen (D–TN-09), and Brad Knott (R–NC-13) introduced the Safe Cloud Storage Act to help law enforcement agencies modernize how they securely store and process digital evidence related to child sexual exploitation investigations. U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R–TN) and Amy Klobuchar (D–MN) are leading a companion bill in the Senate.

As the volume of digital evidence containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) continues to grow, law enforcement agencies are facing more challenges in storing, transferring, and analyzing this highly sensitive evidence. Many investigators are still forced to rely on outdated physical storage tools—such as thumb drives, external hard drives, and on-premise servers—which are costly, limited in capacity, and significantly slow down investigations. By enabling secure cloud-based storage and analysis of digital evidence, the legislation will help investigators process evidence more efficiently, reduce investigative delays, and strengthen the ability of law enforcement to identify victims and prosecute offenders.

The Safe Cloud Storage Act builds on the framework established by the REPORT Act, which provided limited liability protections for vendors contracted by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) to store and transfer CSAM for investigative purposes. This bipartisan bill extends similar protections to other vetted, law enforcement–approved third-party vendors who assist investigators in securely handling digital evidence.

“We must do everything in our power to protect children from abuse and prosecute those who commit such despicable crimes — that include modernizing how law enforcement stores sensitive information so they can better purse justice,” Rep. Dean said. “Many police departments still rely on older technology like thumb drives to store materials for child sexual abuse material (CSAM) investigations. Our bipartisan bill is a commonsense measure to enable law enforcement to securely use cloud-based storage, making arrests for online child exploitation more efficient. I’m grateful to my colleagues in the House and Senate for working on this important legislation.”

“Identifying victims and bringing predators to justice requires modern investigative tools,”Rep. Lee said. “The Safe Cloud Storage Act updates how law enforcement securely handles digital evidence, allowing investigators to partner with trusted technology providers while maintaining strong safeguards and accountability.”

“Those helping law enforcement in the fight against child sexual exploitation must be able to securely store evidence of these horrific crimes,” Sen. Blackburn said. “Our bipartisan Safe Cloud Storage Act would ensure investigators can securely handle and store CSAM evidence in the cloud by providing limited liability protections. With this critical bill, we will continue our work to bring predators to justice and protect vulnerable children.”

“We must do everything we can to protect our children from online exploitation and abuse,” Sen. Klobuchar said. “Our commonsense, bipartisan bill would improve investigations and prosecutions by allowing law enforcement to safely store and transmit evidence using cloud systems – saving time and resources.”

“I’m proud to work with Representative Lee on this important legislation that will modernize evidence handling for some of the most horrific and sensitive cases,” Rep. Knott said. “It will enable more efficient convictions of heinous offenders, bring justice for victims, and apply strict standards for the handling and protection of sensitive evidence.”

“The volume of evidence in child sexual abuse cases requires the kinds of third-party liability protections the Safe Cloud Act would provide,” Rep. Cohen said. “I am pleased to join with Congresswoman Laurel Lee, a recognized expert in this area of the law, as a co-lead of this important and protective legislation.”

The Safe Cloud Storage Act includes:

Extends civil and criminal liability protections currently provided to NCMEC vendors under the REPORT Act to additional law enforcement–approved third-party vendors that store or process CSAM evidence for investigative purposes.

Requires vendors to comply with rigorous cybersecurity standards, including National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) guidelines.

Requires vendors to notify the Department of Justice within 30 days of entering into a contract with a law enforcement agency to store or process CSAM-related materials.

The bill includes strict guardrails to ensure accountability and data security. Liability protections do not apply in cases of intentional misconduct, gross negligence, or malicious acts. In addition, vendors covered by the legislation must comply with rigorous cybersecurity standards consistent with guidelines from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

The Safe Cloud Storage Act is supported by a broad coalition of law enforcement and child protection organizations, including the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), Raven, Thorn, the International Justice Mission, the Fraternal Order of Police, the Child Rescue Coalition, the National District Attorneys Association, the Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies, and the National Center on Sexual Exploitation.

“At Child Rescue Coalition, our innovative technology empowers law enforcement to identify and arrest child predators faster and more effectively. The SCSA strengthens and modernizes how law enforcement can securely store, share, and interact with CSAM, accelerating the identification of offenders and the rescue of victims,” Greg Schiller, CEO, Child Rescue Coalition said. “This bill reinforces trust, accountability, and innovation, ensuring critical safeguards evolve alongside the technology law enforcement relies on every day to protect children.”

“The National Fraternal Order of Police strongly supports the Safe Cloud Storage Act. This important piece of legislation safeguards law enforcement investigations, protects officers and witnesses, and maintains public trust,” Patrick Yoes, National President said. “The FOP is grateful to the leadership of Representatives Lee and Cohen, who understand the importance of enhanced protections amidst evolving advancements in modern policing and technology.

“The Safe Cloud Storage Act is a critical step forward in modernizing how law enforcement investigates child sexual exploitation,” Jennifer Dunton, Director of Legislative Affairs, Raven said. “By authorizing secure, cloud-based storage for CSAM evidence, this bill ensures that investigators can move cases faster, identify victims sooner, and hold offenders accountable, all while maintaining the highest cybersecurity standards. RAVEN strongly supports this effort to give law enforcement the 21st-century tools they need to protect children online.”

“The Safe Cloud Storage Act will modernize and accelerate CSAM investigations conducted by law enforcement,” Nate King, Director of Policy and Advocacy, International Justice Mission said. “This needed legislation builds upon recently increased reporting requirements through the REPORT Act by ensuring that law enforcement-approved vendors who assist in CSAM investigations can legally and securely store evidence that is critical to holding perpetrators accountable, including U.S.-based CSAM offenders who direct and consume live child sexual abuse of children in countries like the Philippines.”

“The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) is proud to support the Safe Cloud Storage Act and thanks Representative Lee, Representative Cohen, Representative Knott, and Representative Dean for introducing this important piece of legislation. The bill will modernize law enforcement’s use of advanced technologies, enabling more streamlined investigations of cases of child sexual exploitation. We look forward to working with the bill’s sponsors to see this legislation advance,” Michelle DeLaune, CEO, NCMEC said.

Rep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania.

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De La Cruz Secures Release of Antonio Gámez-Cuéllar

WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) secured the release of Antonio Gámez-Cuéllar, an 18-year-old McAllen High School senior and celebrated member of the award-winning Mariachi Oro program, following her direct advocacy with the White House, incoming DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin, the office of White House Border Czar Tom Homan, and senior officials throughout the federal government.

"Antonio is going home. The Gámez-Cuéllar family are valued members of our community. I was honored to stand with Antonio and his fellow mariachis when they visited my office last year, and I am honored to stand with him again. My work is not done. I will continue to advocate for his family in keeping with the law, and I will not stop until they are reunited."

"While some were busy politicizing this family's situation, I was busy solving it. Today is a reminder of why effective representation in Washington matters. South Texans deserve both a secure border and commonsense policies, and I will always fight for both." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Background:

De La Cruz has long championed commonsense immigration measures, including her Bracero Program 2.0 Act and Fair Wages for Farm Workers Act, while consistently maintaining that enforcement resources must prioritize threats to public safety.

En Español:

La Congresista De La Cruz agradece el apoyo de toda la comunidad y confirma que Antonio Gámez-Cuéllar será liberado gracias a las gestiones directas de su oficina con la Casa Blanca y funcionarios federales de alto nivel.

"La familia Gámez-Cuéllar es muy valorada en nuestra comunidad. Trabajé muy duro para que Antonio pudiera regresar a su casa, pero mi trabajo no ha terminado. La familia Gámez-Cuéllar es muy valorada en nuestra comunidad. Trabajé muy duro para que Antonio pudiera regresar a su casa, pero mi trabajo no ha terminado. Voy a seguir luchando hasta que esta hermosa familia mariachi esté reunida muy pronto."

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DESJARLAIS VOICES CONCERN TO VA SECRETARY OVER CLOSURE OF MCMINNVILLE CLINIC

(WASHINGTON, DC) –Congressman Scott DesJarlais (R-TN-04) authored a letter to the U.S. Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins expressing concern over yesterday’s announcement that the McMinnville, TN VA Clinic will be closing.

Rep. DesJarlais, a physician who formerly worked in a VA hospital, wrote to Collins, noting that over 46,000 veterans live in his district and many will be forced to drive over an hour to receive healthcare services with the closing of the McMinnville clinic.

DesJarlais wrote to Collins that he and his staff were not consulted about the impending closure of the rural outpatient VA healthcare facility.

“My office received no notice prior to the public disclosure that this facility was facing staffing shortages or that these shortages would lead to the shuttering of this important VA Outpatient Clinic in my district. Leaders at the VA Clinic in McMinnville did not consult with or inform my staff or myself about the issues facing this Clinic, and the answers they gave as to why this was happening and the information they have provided to the community have been woefully inadequate. Had we been given prior notice and involved in these discussions, our office could have assisted in finding appropriate solutions and resources for those who rely on the VA and the care provided to them by the McMinnville VA clinic,” DesJarlais said in his letter.

The Tennessee congressman posed the following questions to Collins and requested a response by Wednesday, March 11, 2026:

When did discussions surrounding the closure of the McMinnville VA Outpatient first begin?

Were any local, state, or federally elected leaders involved in the discussion surrounding the closure of the McMinnville VA clinic? If no, why not?

What is the official closure date of the clinic?

What is the plan to provide healthcare to those who utilize the clinic without requiring them to drive long distances to receive services from the VA?

DesJarlais ended his letter to Secretary Collins stating that he wants to work together to come up with an adequate solution that will not impact the quality of care the veterans in his district receive.

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