Emmer, Stauber Host Roundtable, Road Tour Alongside House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chair Graves in Monticello

MONTICELLO, MN – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) hosted House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (MO-06) and Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) for a roundtable discussion and a tour of the I-94 Gap Construction location in Monticello. They met with local leaders to discuss infrastructure priorities and community needs, many of which will be addressed by the U.S House of Representatives in the next Surface Transportation Reauthorization.

“Chairman Graves and Congressman Stauber are two of the biggest champions for American infrastructure in Congress. It's an honor to showcase Wright County's work with them," said Congressman Emmer. “The leaders in Wright County and the City of Monticello showed us the real need of ensuring we get the highway bill done and on time. We had a fruitful discussion and I look forward to working with Sam and Pete back in Washington to support safe, thriving, and expanding Minnesota communities."

“I appreciate Congressman Emmer and Congressman Stauber for hosting me in Minnesota to see the work they are doing to strengthen the region’s infrastructure, and to meet with local officials and stakeholders to talk about the importance of the highway bill we are working on now in Congress that will invest billions of dollars in the state’s and nation’s roads, bridges, and other surface transportation infrastructure. This bill will be the most important highway bill in decades, will give states like Minnesota the flexibility they need to prioritize their most critical transportation needs, and will ensure we can build America’s infrastructure with less red tape. This opportunity to discuss transportation needs with Minnesota leaders and infrastructure builders will help inform the work we are doing to pass the highway bill,” said Chairman Sam Graves.

“Under the strong leadership of Chairman Graves and House Republicans, we are refocusing federal investment on traditional infrastructure projects like the roads, bridges, and highways that keep America moving. I was grateful for the opportunity to visit Minnesota’s 6th District alongside Chairman Graves and Majority Whip Emmer to showcase the kinds of projects our surface transportation bill will deliver for hardworking communities across the country. I am especially looking forward to seeing these federal dollars return to Minnesota’s Eighth District, where projects like Highway 8 need improvements to enhance safety and economic vitality. I appreciate the local leaders who joined us for this discussion; their insights will ensure this vital legislation meets the needs of the people we have the privilege to serve,” said Congressman Stauber.

“Wright County is grateful to have Congressman Emmer, Chairman Graves, and Congressman Stauber in Monticello today for an important discussion about our local infrastructure and the needs of our community,” said Wright County Administrator Greg Kryzer. “As Congress considers legislation to fund road projects across the nation, our county is thankful for the opportunity to share the progress of our current transportation projects and needs we have for additional improvements. Together we can make life better for Wright County residents and visitors one road at a time.”

Background

The current Surface Transportation Reauthorization is set to expire on September 30, 2026. This five-year authorization is for federal surface transportation programs, including highways, transit, and safety programs. These multi-year programs give states the long-term certainty they need to plan and complete the surface transportation infrastructure projects their communities need.

For fiscal year 2026, Congressman Emmer secured $20.7 million of community project funding for road construction projects in Minnesota’s Sixth Congressional District. Additionally, he secured $6 million for I-94 in Fiscal Year 2023 and Fiscal Year 2024 through two community project funding requests.

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Fitzpatrick Introduces Resolution Honoring Bucks County’s Rosie the Riveter Mae Krier on Her 100th Birthday

Washington, DC- Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) introduced a resolution honoring Mae Krier of Levittown, Pennsylvania, on her 100th birthday— a tribute to one of the original Rosie the Riveters and to a life spent in service, both to the country she helped defend and to the history she refused to let be forgotten.

During World War II, Mae helped build B-17 and B-29 aircraft at Boeing in Seattle, answering her country’s call as one of the original Rosie the Riveters. In the decades since, she has become a leading voice in the effort to ensure the six million American women who joined the workforce and volunteered in support of the war effort receive the recognition they earned, while working alongside Congressman Fitzpatrick to preserve the legacy of the women who helped lead the Nation to victory on the home front.

H.Res. 1126 honors Mae’s extraordinary life of service—from her wartime contributions to her decades of leadership preserving the legacy of the Rosies—and the indomitable “We Can Do It” spirit that she continues to embody at 100 years old.

Click the image above to watch Congressman Fitzpatrick’s floor speech honoring Mae Krier.

“Mae Krier is an indomitable force, a trailblazer in every sense, and one of the most extraordinary people I have ever had the privilege to know,” said Fitzpatrick. “Her 100th birthday is not simply a celebration of years, but a tribute to a life of uncommon courage, purpose, and grace. In World War II, Mae answered her country’s call. In the decades since, she has answered a second call just as faithfully: to make sure the women who helped win that war are remembered with the honor they earned. She is a dear friend, a trusted partner, and a living reminder that history is not only made by great events, but by men and women of quiet strength, deep conviction, and unwavering love of country. Standing with Mae on the shores of Normandy on the 80th anniversary of D-Day, as I presented her with the Congressional Gold Medal she was so instrumental in securing, remains one of the great honors of my life. Mae’s life is proof that one person, with courage and conviction, can move history — and leave it better than they found it.”

Click here to read the full text of the resolution.

Background:

Fitzpatrick has spent years leading a bipartisan effort to secure long-overdue recognition for Mae Krier and the millions of American women who helped power the home front during World War II. His bipartisan and bicameral Rosie the Riveter Congressional Gold Medal Act was signed into law on December 4, 2020, awarding Congress’s highest civilian honor to the six million women who joined the workforce and volunteered in support of the war effort.

The Congressional Gold Medal is the oldest and highest civilian honor awarded by Congress.

Last year, on Mae’s 99th birthday, Fitzpatrick introduced the Rosie the Riveter Day Act, legislation to formally designate March 21 (Mae’s birthday) each year as Rosie the Riveter Day in honor of Mae and her fellow Rosies.

This resolution continues that work by formally recognizing Mae Krier’s contributions to the Nation and honoring the legacy she has spent a lifetime preserving.


Congresswoman Foushee Blasts White House AI Framework That Fails to Put People First

DURHAM, NC (March 20, 2026) — Today, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04), a member of the House, Science, Space, and Technology Committee released the following statement after the White House unveiled its National AI Legislative Framework:

“President Trump’s AI framework falls short at a moment when Americans needs real protections and clear leadership, and when the American people are demanding action. As AI continues to transform our economy and society, Congress must put workers first, safeguard civil rights and civil liberties, and ensure these technologies are deployed responsibly and deliver real benefits to our communities––not just those at the top.

“This proposal lacks meaningful guardrails and ignores the real impacts AI is already having on jobs, communities, and local resources––from rising energy demand and skyrocketing costs to increased water use. It also takes the wrong approach by attempting to preempt state and local governments from acting. At a time when Congress has stalled and House Republican leadership has walked away from the bipartisan work of the House AI Task Force, we should not be tying the hands of local leaders who are responding to real concerns like youth online safety and consumer protection.

“We need a different path, one that expands opportunity and ensures every community can participate in and benefit from the AI economy, and that their voices are not just heard, but reflected in AI governance. Through efforts like my Expanding AI Voices Act and the HBCU Artificial Intelligence Research Leadership Act, I am working to broaden participation in AI and ensure that HBCUs and other institutions help shape the future of this technology. Workers, civil society, academia, and impacted communities must have a seat at the table in how AI is governed.

“Americans deserve transparency and accountability so they can understand how AI systems are being used and how they affect their lives. Creators, workers, and the public must be protected as these technologies evolve. The American people deserve more than a four-page “framework” –– they deserve action that puts people first, strengthens our workforce and our economy, and upholds our democratic values.”


Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez Introduces Bipartisan Fuel the Force Act

WASHINGTON D.C. — Earlier this year, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) introduced the bipartisan Fuel the Force Act with Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-08), which will improve recruitment and retention of experienced law enforcement officers to ensure departments remain strong, professional, and equipped to protect our communities.

Specifically, the bill exempts the first $100,000 of ordinary income from federal taxation for full-time officers with at least five years of service.

Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez joins Rep. Fitzpatrick and law enforcement at a press conference to announce the legislation.

“Last year, during Police Week, law enforcement officers told me that they had colleagues living on food stamps. That’s enraging to me, and it goes hand in hand with what I hear from local law enforcement across Southwest Washington about how incredibly challenging it is to keep new officers on the force because of budget constraints and the nature of the job,” said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez. “Departments do their best work when they’re able to build durable connections with the folks they protect. Those relationships take time to develop, so whenever a recruit leaves, things go back to square one. This bipartisan bill addresses the retention issue head on to support law enforcement officers and keep our communities safe.”

You can read the full bill here.

Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez has previously joined the House to pass:

The Medal of Sacrifice Act that she cosponsored, which directs the President to issue a medal of sacrifice for law enforcement officers and first responders who are killed in the line of duty.

The bipartisan Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act that she cosponsored, which will strengthen data collection about targeted attacks on law enforcement officers and what mental health resources exist for officers.

She helped introduce the Fight Fentanyl Act to support law enforcement’s effort to get fentanyl off the streets and successfully led a Blue Dog Coalition effort urging Speaker Mike Johnson to bring the HALT Fentanyl Act to the House floor for a vote, leading to the bill being signed into law The Congresswoman also cosponsored the FEND Off Fentanyl and END FENTANYL Acts in the House, which are now law, to target fentanyl traffickers and fight fentanyl smuggling at ports of entry.

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RELEASE: Gottheimer Meets with Wyckoff Girl Scout Troop to Discuss Government and Civic Engagement

WYCKOFF, NJ – U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) joined the Wyckoff Girl Troop 99007

at Washington Elementary School to discuss the importance of government and how it works. During the visit, Gottheimer spoke with the scouts about the role of public service, how laws are made, and why civic engagement is essential to strengthening communities.

“It was great to meet with such bright and engaged young leaders,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “Their curiosity and commitment to learning about government give me a lot of hope and confidence for the future of our democracy.”

The scouts asked thoughtful questions and shared their perspectives on issues that matter to them, highlighting the next generation’s enthusiasm for leadership and service. Gottheimer emphasized the importance of staying informed, participating in the democratic process, and giving back to the community.

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STATEMENT: Gottheimer Statement on White House AI Framework

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, March 20, 2026, U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) released the following statement:

“Today, the White House released its AI framework which broadly blocks state AI laws and lacks key consumer protections around AI models and agent safety. While this framework takes steps in the right direction, including child safety and lower energy costs, it is still a half-measure that falls short of what’s necessary for ‘Smart AI’ regulation. AI is too important, — and too vital to our global competitiveness, economy, jobs, and families — to do anything short of a full-measure.

Unfortunately, the White House framework fails to address key issues, including strong accountability for AI companies, under the guise of protecting children, communities, and creators. Americans need protection — but this means nothing if we allow the AI industry to be the Wild West.

Preemption only makes sense if federal law effectively replaces what states have built with a standard that is truly comprehensive and protects Americans.

Simply put, this framework still has a long way to go. Voluntary standards won’t do the trick. In addition to commonsense guardrails, we need serious solutions that address workforce challenges, better incentives for STEM education, enhanced protections against deepfakes, safe and secure AI models and agents, and guarantees that all Americans reap the massive benefits AI offers.

We are in a Cold War-era-style race with China, and we must win — both for our economy and our national security. If done the right way, the potential for areas like health care, education, and government efficiency are boundless. But, we have to win it the right way. I’m working with my colleagues to develop a commonsense framework that will create clear and consistent rules of the road which both protect Americans and allow our AI industry to lead the way.”

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2026 Congressional Art Competition Now Open!

Attention student artists! The 2026 Congressional Art Competition is now open to high school students across the CNMI. This annual nationwide competition invites students from every state and U.S. territory to showcase their artistic talent, with the winning submission from the Commonwealth to be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year. This year’s theme is “Our Golden Chapter: 50 Years of the Covenant,” highlighting an important milestone in our history. The competition is free to enter and open to all CNMI high school students, with submissions due by 5:00 p.m. on April 17, 2026. Students may submit original two-dimensional artwork, including paintings, drawings, photography, and digital art, to any of the district offices on Saipan, Tinian, or Rota. Take a look at our page for more information. I’m so excited to see the creativity and talent of our students on display once again this year!


Catch Up with Kim -- March 20, 2026 -- Letter from the Congresswoman
March 20, 2026
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CNMI Navigation Traditions Featured at UC Berkeley

We’re inspired to see the rich heritage of Pacific navigation, including traditions of the CNMI, being shared in the San Francisco Bay Area. Traditional Chamorro and Carolinian wayfinding, which involves reading the stars, waves, clouds, and animals to sail across vast oceans, is not only an art but also a sophisticated science. The “Native Seas: Traditional Micronesian Navigators Visit the Bay Area” workshop at the University of California, Berkeley, celebrates this knowledge, connecting Pacific Islanders to their roots and reminding all of us that technology and ingenuity come in many forms. We applaud the master navigators and organizers for keeping these traditions alive and passing them on to future generations.

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Discussing CNMI Priorities with Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan

This week, I had a very productive and warm meeting with House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan. He’s a genuinely thoughtful and approachable leader, and I appreciated the opportunity to strengthen our relationship while keeping him informed on issues that affect the CNMI, including our economy, immigration, tourism, aviation, and more. As Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, which has jurisdiction over matters such as immigration, federal courts, constitutional rights, antitrust, intellectual property, and law enforcement, I look forward to continuing to work with Chairman Jordan to advance policies that support the growth, safety, and prosperity of our islands.


FEMA Provides Update on BRIC Program

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) issued an update this week on the status of the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program, notifying states, Tribal Nations, and territories of ongoing efforts to resume programmatic support for BRIC awards and sub-applications. FEMA indicated that full program support, including award monitoring, closeouts, and pre-award reviews, will resume once the current lapse in appropriations ends. The agency also shared that its internal evaluation of the program has been completed and that future funding will be directed toward core hazard mitigation and infrastructure resilience projects. FEMA plans to release a new funding opportunity in the coming months and will continue working with communities to advance eligible projects. Applicants and recipients in the CNMI are encouraged to coordinate with their FEMA Regional Offices for project-specific questions. For more information on the BRIC program and this month’s update here is a useful resource for you.


Pushing for Federal Action on High Fuel Costs

I know everyone is feeling the rise in gas prices we’ve seen over the last two weeks. With that in mind, I initiated discussions this week with the U.S. Department of Energy to address fuel costs in the CNMI and across Pacific territories. In a letter to Secretary Chris Wright, I laid out the growing burden on our community, where gasoline ranged from $6.37 per gallon on Saipan to as high as $8.50 on Tinian at the time I sent the letter. By the time you are reading this, it may be even higher. These prices are well above national averages and are not driven by global conditions alone. They reflect structural challenges tied to our small, import-dependent market and limited purchasing scale. These costs are already showing up in higher electricity bills, transportation expenses, and the overall cost of living. I also raised the need to explore practical solutions, including whether a federally coordinated approach could improve fuel procurement and supply stability. This is an ongoing conversation, but one that needs to happen. I will keep working with federal partners to bring down costs and provide relief for families and businesses in the CNMI.


Reconnecting with Under Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao

On Wednesday I had the pleasure of meeting again with Under Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao. The Under Secretary and I have talked previously about the economic situation in the CNMI, and he returned to my office after conducting more research about how the Department of War and the federal government can help improve the economic situation in our islands. He has a sincere affection for the Marianas, that started when he was a young refugee that got his first taste of freedom in Guam and that grew on a recent visit to the CNMI. I look forward to continuing to collaborate with him on ways the federal government and the CNMI can work together in ways that benefit the CNMI economy and community.


Small Business Committee Hearing on Field Operations

On Wednesday the Small Business Committee held a hearing with the Small Business Administration Associate Administrator for Field Operations, Lisa Shimkat. I questioned Associate Administrator Shimkat about the closure last year of the SBA field office in Guam, which serves the CNMI as well. SBA field offices serve several important roles, including being the “boots on the ground” in delivering disaster loan assistance to small businesses after natural disasters like typhoons. Without the Guam office, the closest SBA office is in Hawaii, depriving our local banks and businesses of a vital local resource. Associate Administrator Shimkat agreed to work with me to speed up the reopening of the Guam office and to potentially add additional loan officers to it to increase capacity.

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T&I Advances Dalilah’s Law

On Wednesday, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee advanced Dalilah’s Law, named after a young girl who was seriously injured in a trucking accident, to strengthen commercial driver’s license (CDL) standards and improve roadway safety. The legislation has received strong backing from President Trump and his Administration, including Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, as well as broad support from congressional leaders and national trucking and supply chain organizations. The bill also includes provisions creating a pathway for CNMI and other U.S. territory residents to obtain CDLs through states if they meet federal requirements, since the CNMI does not issue CDLs locally. This ensures our residents have access to these opportunities while supporting safety nationwide.


Working Across Congress: Meeting with Senator Tim Sheehy

This week, I had the honor of meeting with Montana’s very own Senator Tim Sheehy. Senator Sheehy is a former Navy SEAL and works hard every day to advocate for our veterans. It turns out that veterans in Montana face similar challenges in accessing VA healthcare due to the state’s rural and sparsely populated nature. Having served in the Navy, he worked throughout the Pacific and was very familiar with the CNMI. When I shared the challenges and disparities our people and our veterans experience, he understood exactly what I was talking about. I look forward to fostering this relationship with Senator Sheehy and hope to work with him in the future.


Landsman on Iran: “It’s time to be done”

Cincinnati, OH – Today, Congressman Greg Landsman (D-OH-01) released the following statement on the current state of the operation in Iran:

It’s time to finish the operation in Iran. It’s time to be done.

No expansion of the original operation. No ground troops.

The fact is, in three weeks, we have destroyed nearly all of the regime’s missile and drone launch capacity and eliminated their ability, for now, to produce ballistic missiles and drones. This means, the objective to destroy the weapons shield built to protect their underground nuclear enrichment facilities has been achieved.

We did this to stop a religiously fanatic regime with an apocalyptic worldview from getting a nuclear weapon, killing their own citizens, and causing chaos and bloodshed throughout the region.

For most of my life, the regime and Iran have been a national security threat. The amount of enriched uranium for a nuclear bomb, which they brag about having, is arguably the most serious national and global security threat of our time.

Most, if not all nations with nuclear weapons, are unlikely to use them. The regime in Iran would. This is the catastrophic nightmare we are trying to avoid.

The cost of inaction was far too high to tolerate. But now it’s time to be done.

As I said three weeks ago, I trust our military planners and generals to execute on these goals. They have done so, and now it is time for the administration to end the operation before we become entangled in a conflict with no strategic logic.

Where Trump and Hegseth have failed, our uniformed servicemembers have succeeded. While the Administration failed to communicate and prepare the country for this operation, General Kaine and Admiral Cooper have demonstrated extraordinary leadership, and I appreciate them and every one of the sailors, soldiers, and airmen – especially those that gave their lives fighting against this incredibly dangerous regime.

Our War Powers Resolution will be ready for a vote soon.

I will vote for Congressman Meeks’ War Powers Resolution if it comes to the floor. I urge every one of my colleagues to vote Yes. The United States Armed Forces have accomplished remarkable tactical and strategic successes.

It’s now time to be done.

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Lawler Introduces Legislation To Strengthen Railroad Safety Reporting

Washington, D.C. – 3/20/26… This week, Congressman Mike Lawler introduced the Helping Oversee and Ward off Infrastructure Emergencies Act (HOWIE Act), legislation to improve safety and transparency in railroad operations across the United States.

The HOWIE Act directs the Department of Transportation, through the Federal Railroad Administration, to update existing regulations so railroads are required to report accidents that result in certain types of damage. This includes incidents that cause fires, such as brush fires, near railroad tracks when there is reasonable cause that railroad activity contributed to the damage.

“Railroads are a vital part of our infrastructure system, but with that comes a responsibility to operate safely and transparently to better serve the communities they keep commuting. The HOWIE Act takes a commonsense step forward by requiring railroads to report accidents and fires they may have caused, so first responders and operators can respond quickly and prevent further harm should emergencies arise,” said Congressman Lawler.

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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TUNE IN: Díaz-Balart to Hold NSRP Subcommittee Field Hearing on Accountability and Reform at the United Nations

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs, chaired by Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart, will hold a field hearing on accountability and reform at the United Nations today Friday, March 20, at 10:00 a.m. ET.

The proceeding, which will include bipartisan appropriations participation and Representative of the United States of America to the United Nations Michael Waltz, will examine implementation of FY26 NSRP bill directives aimed at advancing lasting structural reforms and strengthening oversight and effectiveness of the UN system.

The full event will be available and livestreamed on the House Appropriations Committee’s YouTube channel.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS:

WHAT:Oversight Field Hearing – Accountability and Reform at the United Nations

DATE: Friday, March 20

TIME: 10:00 a.m. ET


WATCH: Díaz-Balart Delivers Opening Remarks at NSRP Subcommittee Field Hearing on Accountability and Reform at the United Nations

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Appropriations Committee Vice Chair and Chairman of the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Subcommittee (NSRP), Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart, delivered the following opening remarks during the NSRP subcommittee field hearing on accountability and reform at the United Nations headquarters in New York City.

The proceeding, which includes bipartisan appropriations participation and Representative of the United States of America to the United Nations Michael Waltz, will examine the implementation of the FY26 NSRP bill directives aimed at advancing lasting structural reforms and strengthening oversight and effectiveness of the UN system.

The full event is available and livestreamed on the House Appropriations Committee’s YouTube channel.

Chairman Díaz-Balart's opening remarks as prepared here and below:

"Good morning Ambassador Waltz, Members of the Subcommittee, and others who have joined us today for this critically important field hearing on accountability and reform at the United Nations. We are convened at the United States Mission to the United Nations, overlooking New York City and the UN Headquarters— a fitting vantage point to note that oversight of American tax dollars is non-negotiable.

"Over the last three fiscal years, this Subcommittee has reduced total spending under its purview by 22 percent. This includes the largest cut in the recently enacted FY 2026 NSRP Appropriations Act, which slashed 16 percent by getting rid of inefficient and ineffective programs and refocusing funding on programs that are in the direct national security interest of the United States. Funding for the United Nations was not exempt from this review, which resulted in double digit cuts and stronger requirements that demand accountability and reform on behalf of the American taxpayer.

"The hearing today is an opportunity to discuss these measures that go hand in hand with the great work Ambassador Waltz and his team have just begun to undertake with notable results. That’s what this Subcommittee, and taxpayers, will continue to demand. Results.

"As President Trump said, the United Nations has great potential. But the President also noted the UN has not come remotely close to living up to that potential. Anyone who has followed this Subcommittee in recent years knows I could not agree more. Too often, the UN is directly at odds with America’s interests and makes a mockery of the very things it claims to support. From the Human Rights Council with many of the world’s worst offenders, to the World Health Organization’s pandering to communist China during COVID-19 while shutting out Taiwan, to Iran winning a seat on the Commission on the Status of Women while its regime brutalized women in the streets.

"Luckily President Trump and Secretary Rubio are ushering in a new era of international accountability. One that demonstrates the glaring inadequacies of the UN.

"The central problem is not the Member States but the UN structure itself. It is embedded in the UN bureaucracy, its reporting practices, its discretionary funding pipelines, and its weak culture of oversight. For too long, Administrations have relied on UN self-reporting, vague assurances, and funding without sufficient conditions. That approach has produced a system increasingly comfortable with its own brokenness.

"Let me be clear. That era is over. As long as I’m Chairman of the Subcommittee that provides the U.S. contributions to the UN, the status quo will no longer be tolerated.

"The American people have every right to expect that institutions funded with their tax dollars will support United States security, respect our allies, and operate with transparency and accountability. Too often, that is not what we see.

"The enacted fiscal year 2026 NSRP law begins to change that.

"This Subcommittee worked hard to secure tools that match the scale of the problem.

The law cuts funding to unaccountable UN bodies and other international organizations.

It strengthens withholdings until entities meet standards on oversight, eliminating anti-Israel bias and antisemitism, aid-diversion reporting, and terrorism vetting.

It shifts key accountability triggers away from UN self-reporting and toward determinations by the Secretary of State.

It strengthens Inspectors General and GAO oversight access.

It bars funding for UNRWA and the Commission of Inquiry against Israel.

And it provides additional leverage tied to member-state conduct, including voting patterns at the UN and the treatment of Taiwan.

"In short, Congress has now provided meaningful leverage. And there is no question in my mind that this Administration with this Ambassador before us today will use it to the fullest extent.

"Ambassador, I support an approach that treats United States funding as leverage, not tribute. That means using our contributions, our position, and our voice to press for measurable reform in budget discipline, bureaucracy, political bias, and internal oversight.

"As the landscape of world power is changing under President Trump’s bold leadership, regimes that are hellbent on the destruction of freedom and basic human dignity are on notice. From Tehran to Caracas, Havana, and Moscow, the message is getting through that the old assumptions of impunity no longer hold.

"But sadly, we have not had a UN Secretariat that has been a consistent advocate for freedom and human rights in decades. The current UN leadership, like its predecessors, is not living up to its job description, let alone the promise of the UN Charter to promote peace and security. Its shameful records on Iran and on Gaza make that clear.

"The UN Charter speaks of peace and security. But institutions do not earn credibility by repeating their mission statements. They earn it through conduct, transparency, neutrality, and demonstrated reform. This is the expectation. It is a huge challenge and will be a difficult undertaking. Luckily, we have one of our nation’s best, brightest, and most tenacious individuals in Ambassador Waltz to get the job done.

"Ambassador, thank you for your continued service to our country and your willingness to host the Subcommittee here today. I look forward to hearing how you intend to use the leverage this Subcommittee provided as well as other efforts underway to press for accountability and reform and meaningful results at the United Nations."


Representative Thomas Massie to Host 2026 U.S. Service Academy Day

For Immediate Release

Contact: massie.press@mail.house.gov

Contact #: 202-225-3465

Crescent Springs, KY- Representative Thomas Massie announces that he will host his annual "Academy Day" event on Saturday, April 18th at the Marriott Cincinnati Airport in Hebron, KY. On "Academy Day" interested students of all ages and their parents have the chance to meet with Service Academy representatives to learn more about the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the Naval Academy, the Air Force Academy, the Merchant Marine Academy, and the Coast Guard Academy, known collectively as the U.S. Service Academies. More information about the program, including answers to "Frequently Asked Questions," can be found at this link.

By attending a U.S. Service Academy, young men and women have the opportunity to serve their country while improving all facets of their character through a rigorous scholastic curriculum and a disciplined moral and physical regimen. Competition for admission to a Service Academy is high, and nominees are chosen based on several factors including character, leadership, academic excellence, physical aptitude, and extracurricular activities.

Any high school student who is interested in learning more about attending a U.S. Service Academy is encouraged to attend "Academy Day" and should RSVP at this link.

CONGRESSMAN MASSIE’S ANNUAL U.S. SERVICE ACADEMY DAY

Date: Saturday, April 18, 2026

Time: Registration 10:00 AM -11:00 AM

Program 11:00 AM -12:30 PM


Johnson, Scalise, Guthrie, Jordan, Babin: House Will Work to Implement National AI Framework

WASHINGTON — Speaker Johnson, Leader Scalise, Energy & Commerce Committee Chairman Brett Guthrie, Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, and Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Brian Babin released the following statement committing to act on the artificial intelligence (AI) framework released today by the Trump Administration:

“AI has begun to demonstrate its potential to improve Americans’ lives. To ensure we continue to harness its potential and beat China in the global AI race, Congress must take action. Today, the Trump Administration took a critical step in releasing a framework that gives Congress a roadmap to pursue legislation that provides innovators with much-needed certainty, while protecting consumers and prioritizing kids’ online safety. House Republicans look forward to working across the aisle to enact a national framework that unleashes the full potential of AI, cements the U.S. as the global leader, and provides important protections for American families.”

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Speaker Johnson Appoints DeSoto Parish Sheriff Jayson Richardson to the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Review Board

WASHINGTON — On Thursday, Speaker Johnson appointed DeSoto Parish Sheriff Jayson Richardson to the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Review Board, which reviews nominations and recommends individuals to receive the Medal of Valor.

“I am pleased to appoint DeSoto Parish Sheriff Jayson Richardson to the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Review Board,” Speaker Johnson said. “As a dedicated, trusted leader in North Louisiana, Sheriff Richardson is an excellent fit for this role, and I am confident he will be an asset to the Board and its mission of honoring the brave heroes of the public safety community.”

BACKGROUND:

The Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Review Board is an eleven-member board appointed by the President, the Speaker and Minority Leader of the U.S. House of Representatives, and the Majority and Minority Leaders of the U.S. Senate. The Board, which falls under the Bureau of Justice Assistance within the U.S. Department of Justice, reviews nominations and recommends individuals for recognition of the Medal of Valor issued by the President. For more information on the Board, visit their website: Review Board | Bureau of Justice Assistance.

Sheriff Richardson has served three terms as Sheriff of DeSoto Parish and was elected in 2025 as Vice President of the Louisiana Sheriffs’ Association. In 2023, Sheriff Richardson unveiled the “Friends of the Sheriff” program, which alerts first responders if someone inside a vehicle or home has special needs. This initiative has since launched statewide. Sheriff Richardson is also a founding board member of Faith and Fostering, a faith-based organization in Northwest Louisiana aiding homeless young adults in housing and employment opportunities. He now serves as Vice President of the board.

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Congressman Griffith’s Weekly E-Newsletter 3.20.26

There are public misperceptions that the Republican majority in this 119th Congress is doing little for the American people.

But simply running the numbers on the quantity of bills passed fails to account for the major quality conservative victories delivered by this slim Republican majority!

Upon taking a closer look, one sees great progress is underway.

For instance, some of the first bills signed into law took on criminal illegal aliens and the fentanyl epidemic.

The Laken Riley Act, named after a college student raped and killed by an illegal alien, helps law enforcement arrest illegal aliens who commit crimes.

My HALT Fentanyl Act permanently designates lethal fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs.

Republicans are addressing the failures of the Biden-Harris open border policies.

Other actions that Republicans took this Congress will help American families in 2026 and beyond reap great tax benefits.

Had Republicans not acted, your standard deductions on tax returns would have been reduced.

Instead, Republicans raised deductions to roughly $16,000 for individuals and $31,000 for families!

Other tax changes for this year include no tax on tips and no tax on overtime for hourly workers.

A $6,000 bonus deduction will help seniors who pay taxes on their social security.

The Republican majority successfully rescinded billions of dollars that previously funded various woke pet projects overseas and government-funded media.

This was the first successfully enacted rescissions package since 1992.

Additionally, Republicans instituted a series of measures designed to protect our federal health programs. These policies rein in abusive practices and ensure continued federal health program services for eligible American citizens.

These reforms include requiring U.S. States to conduct more frequent checks on Medicaid enrollees to determine eligibility.

We also created new prevention policies to curb enrollment of duplicative or deceased individuals.

Waste, fraud and abuse are not only targets in health care policy, but in energy policy as well.

Through Republicans’ legislative efforts, we phase out many of the Democrats’ “Green New Deal” credits and repeal some programs created from Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

Many of these IRA credits steered our economy towards a costly energy transition, subsidized by the American taxpayer, in order to boost electric vehicle production as well as wind and solar projects.

Republicans did away with wasteful “Green New Scam” credits and are working to unleash American energy dominance.

As a result, America’s domestic energy industries will provide more affordable and reliable energy for American communities.

One such industry will be American coal. As one of 70 Trump Executive Orders that the House voted to codify, “Reinvigorating America’s Beautiful Clean Coal Industry” supports using American coal assets to help unleash American energy dominance.

Unfortunately, many of our votes to codify Trump Executive Orders have stalled in the Senate.

For the Executive Order “Preserving and Protecting the Integrity of American Elections,” House Republicans passed both the SAVE Act and the SAVE America Act.

Securing our elections from non-citizen voting is overwhelmingly supported by Americans of all political persuasions. The Senate should follow the House’s lead to pass these commonsense election integrity measures.

Both chambers codified Trump Executive Orders “Iron Dome for America,” “Unleashing American Drone Dominance” and “Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance” by passing historic investments in our military infrastructure and technologies.

More Republican investments fulfilled Trump Executive Orders “Securing our Borders” and “Protecting the American People Against Invasion.” A strong border wall and bolstered border patrol are necessary to combat illegal immigration.

Further, I helped lead Congressional Republicans in other efforts to support American industry.

The Biden Administration issued numerous regulations that threatened American industry, particularly in the waning days before Trump assumed office.

I joined Republicans in introducing and supporting numerous Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolutions to repeal these harmful last-minute Biden-era regulations.

One of these regulations placed burdensome and costly requirements on American manufacturers of rubber tires, threatening potential job cuts and plant closures.

My CRA to undo this anti-American manufacturing policy passed and was signed into law by President Trump!

This was one of nearly two dozen Biden-Harris rules that Republicans successfully repealed through CRAs.

These accomplishments are the tip of the iceberg of what’s been done.

House Democrats will be quick to dismiss Republicans’ significant work by misleading the public and saying that the number of bills we have passed in the 119th Congress is lower than that of previous sessions of Congress.

However, Republicans are not concentrated on merely passing hundreds of bills to name post offices, etc. Rather, we are focused on major policies making America more prosperous, safe and free.

If you have questions, concerns, or comments, feel free to contact my office. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at https://morgangriffith.house.gov/.

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Important Safety Information for Americans in the Middle East (UPDATED: 3/20)

We are continuing to monitor the situation in the Middle East to ensure you and your loved ones remain safe. I want to share the most important resources currently available for Americans traveling or residing abroad.

If you are traveling internationally, it is critical that you enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive up-to-the-minute travel and security updates.

STEP is a free service that allows U.S. citizens and nationals traveling or living abroad to receive email alerts and messages from U.S. embassies and consulates. Enrolling also allows the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you or your emergency contact in the event of an emergency.

STEP messages will include:

Security alerts

Demonstration alerts

Health alerts

Weather or natural disaster alerts

Travel Advisory updates

Routine messages about U.S. embassy and consulate services

To sign up for STEP and access crisis response or evacuation information, please click here.

If you need immediate assistance, please contact the Consular Affairs Emergency Helpline:

+1-202-501-4444 (from abroad)

+1-888-407-4747 (U.S. & Canada)

Security and travel information by country

Bahrain

Latest alerts on Embassy website

Latest Travel Advisory

Egypt

Latest alerts on Embassy website

Latest Travel Advisory

Iran

Latest alerts on Embassy website

Latest Travel Advisory

Iraq

Latest alerts on Embassy website

Latest Travel Advisory

Israel, West Bank, and Gaza

Latest alerts on Embassy website

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Jordan

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Kuwait

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Lebanon

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Oman

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Qatar

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Saudi Arabia

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Syria

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United Arab Emirates

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Yemen

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As additional information becomes available, my office will continue sharing updates and resources so that you and your loved ones have the information you need to stay safe.


Neal Statement on the 16th Anniversary of the Affordable Care Act

SPRINGFIELD, MA— Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement ahead of the 16th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) being signed into law on March 23, 2010:

“16 years ago, Democrats made history and showed what’s possible when you invest in the people and govern for a better tomorrow. More than 50 million people covered. Over 100 million people with pre-existing conditions protected. Countless Americans alive today because affordable care was put into reach.

“At the same time, Republicans have waged a relentless campaign to bring the ACA down. Under their trifecta in Washington, they’ve never been closer to their goal of returning families to a time when they couldn’t afford care or were denied it because of conditions like cancer or diabetes. By refusing to extend the ACA tax credits, by slashing $1 trillion from the health system, President Trump and House Republicans are responsible for the soaring costs millions are facing and the greatest loss of care in history. Around two million have already foregone coverage because of doubled and tripled premiums. Families are sicker and poorer because Republicans sold them out for more billionaire handouts.

“It doesn’t have to be this way. When Democrats had the opportunity, we expanded the ACA wherever possible, putting thousands back into wallets and setting continuous years of record enrollment. We delivered real savings with Medicare drug price negotiation and capped costs for seniors.

“We’ve beaten 16 years of plots to sabotage the ACA, winning for the people and enshrining it as a pillar of our system. That fight won’t waver. Democrats continue to believe in a future where families don’t worry about choosing food on the table or a doctor’s appointment, and we won’t rest until that’s delivered.”

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Pfluger Fly-By: March 20, 2026

Friend,

Welcome back to the Pfluger Fly-By, a weekly roundup of the work I am doing to represent you and our communities in Congress.

It is incredibly disappointing that we have reached day thirty-five of the Democrat shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Over 100,000 DHS workers missed their full paychecks last week, and American travelers are also being negatively impacted. I have called on my Democrat colleagues to stop grandstanding and vote to fund DHS immediately.

This week, I also introduced bipartisan legislation to tackle the rise in nitazenes, pushed for strong U.S. telecommunications leadership, hosted House Agriculture Committee Chairman "GT" Thompson and API President and CEO Mike Sommers for the weekly RSC member meeting, and celebrated National Agriculture Week. My office also has several incredible learning opportunities for students, including an upcoming Service Academy Night in Llano and the 2026 Congressional Art Competition.

Below, you'll find a few highlights from the week, including pictures, in-depth updates, and information on how my office can help you with any federal concerns. As always, my team and I are here to serve you. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you need assistance.

Best,


Amata Congratulates Micah Gurr for Acceptance to Air Force Academy Preparatory School

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is congratulating Micah Tiamanini I’atala Gurr for his acceptance to the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School in Colorado Springs.

The mission of the Preparatory School, established in 1961, is to provide a rigorous ten-month program refining the academic, leadership, and physical skills to prepare cadet candidates for success as future officers. Admission is selective and competitive. Numerous USAFA Preparatory School graduates have gone on to distinguished military and academic careers and honors, including prestigious scholarships, fellowships, general officer ranks, and even astronauts.

Cadet candidates who were not already enlisted at the time of their acceptance are placed on active duty in the Air Force Reserves during the program.

“Congratulations to Micah Gurr on this acceptance. Micah has an exciting year in store for him, then we look forward to another announcement in a year updating his next step,” Congresswoman Amata. “Only excellent students get this opportunity, as the Service Academies look for important marks of leadership and motivation to qualify for Preparatory School. Congratulations to his proud parents, Malaeoletalu and Shantel Gurr, as well as his teachers, and Samoana High School.”

A Service Academy preparatory school requires strong academics, high test scores, and the demonstration of extracurricular activities, volunteering, or other roles that show leadership and motivation.

Congresswoman Amata nominated Micah this January among a group of six student nominees who sent in nine total Service Academy applications this year from American Samoa. He is the second announcement from this class of nominees.

Service Academy Application Information

Congresswoman Amata’s Chief of Staff, Col. Leafaina Tavai, U.S. Army (Ret.), who was the first service academy graduate from American Samoa, graduating from the U.S. Military Academy, recommends that motivated students consider applying to multiple Academies, and notes that students cannot be nominated by the Congresswoman without a completed application on file with the Academy ahead of the congressional nomination.

The Service Academies are selective and highly competitive. Prospective applicants should evaluate their interest in five total Service Academy possibilities: The U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York, and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut. The Coast Guard Academy does not include a congressional nomination process, but the Congresswoman will be very happy to highlight and congratulate every Academy acceptance, so American Samoa can take pride in each of these high-achieving students.

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Riley Forces Insurance Companies to put Patients Over Profits

Congressman Josh Riley (NY-19) helped introduce the bipartisan Fertilizer Transparency Act, legislation to require the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish a mandatory weekly reporting program for fertilizer prices and quantities sold across the country.

"Farmers in New York's 19th district are already up against the wall — unpredictable weather, volatile markets, and now a war halfway around the world is spiking the cost of the fertilizer they depend on every season. That's not fair, and it's not something our farmers should have to navigate blind."

Congressman Josh Riley announced a series of wins for Upstate New York farmers and rural communities after the House Agriculture Committee passed the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, sending the legislation to the full House of Representatives. During the committee’s markup of the Farm Bill, Riley secured a number of provisions focused on farm safety, supporting dairy and organic farmers, lowering costs, strengthening local food systems, and protecting American farmland.


Jacobs, Beyer, Matsui, Lieu, McClain Delaney Introduce Legislation to Repeal White House AI Moratorium

U.S. Representatives Sara Jacobs (D-CA), Don Beyer (D-VA), Doris Matsui (D-CA), Ted Lieu (D-CA), and April McClain Delaney (D-MD), today introduced the Guaranteeing and Upholding Americans’ Right to Decide Responsible AI Laws and Standards (GUARDRAILS) Act to repeal President Donald Trump’s executive order entitled “Ensuring a National Policy Framework for Artificial Intelligence,” which is designed to establish a moratorium on state-level artificial intelligence policies. This legislation would prohibit the executive order from taking effect to ensure states can enact commonsense safeguards to protect the American public in the face of rapidly evolving AI technologies. Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) is introducing companion legislation in the Senate.

President Trump’s executive order would kill responsible safety reforms without providing any federal protections or AI governance requirements to replace the state laws it seeks to preempt. This executive order was followed by the White House’s National AI Policy Framework, which reinforces the administration’s commitment to preempting state-level AI laws without the establishment of clear, enforceable guardrails to address the urgent risks posed by AI systems – in addition to attempting to limit Congressional regulatory action.

“President Trump’s laissez-faire approach to AI regulation and trampling on states’ AI rights is incredibly dangerous for Americans’ rights and safety,” said Rep. Sara Jacobs. “Congress should be proactively creating the rules of the road to protect people while encouraging innovation – instead of taking the back seat to President Trump and his Big Tech donors. But in the meantime, we can’t wait, so I’m proud to co-lead the GUARDRAILS Act to repeal Donald Trump’s AI moratorium. We can’t let Donald Trump’s corruption stand in the way of protecting Americans and people around the world, spurring innovation, and fostering public trust.”

“In today’s lawless, Wild West artificial intelligence environment, states have been leading the charge to implement safeguards addressing serious risks ranging from algorithmic bias to data privacy and consumer protection. But the Trump White House aims to kill state AI laws without setting even minimally acceptable federal guardrails, exposing the American public to the growing risks accompanying completely unchecked artificial intelligence,” said Rep. Don Beyer. “Until federal action ensures safe and responsible AI development, deployment, and use, states must retain the ability to implement policies to protect the American public.”

“Embracing the amazing possibilities of AI can’t come at the cost of leaving Americans vulnerable to its profound risks, which is exactly what President Trump and Republicans are trying to do,” said Sen. Brian Schatz. “Preventing states from enacting common-sense regulation that protects people from the very real harms of AI is dangerous. Congress has a responsibility to get this technology right, but states must be allowed to act in the public interest in the meantime.”

“Republicans keep trying to strip states of the ability to enact commonsense AI safeguards—at a time when there are no meaningful federal protections in place,” said Rep. Doris Matsui. “President Trump’s executive order is illegal coercion: it threatens states with costly lawsuits and tries to hold hostage the BEAD dollars Congress provided to connect every American to affordable broadband. As Ranking Member of the Communications and Technology Subcommittee, I won’t let the Administration weaponize broadband funding to bully states out of enforcing their AI laws. That’s why my colleagues and I are introducing this bill to repeal the order, and I will keep using every tool Congress has to stop this overreach and protect the public.”

“Congress has the responsibility to establish a national framework for AI and any attempt by Donald Trump to create laws through executive order is a sham. It is Congress' responsibility to check this overreach of the presidency,” said Rep. Ted Lieu. “Pleased to work with my friend, Congressman Beyer, to make clear that Congress has the responsibility to create AI policy at the national level. Americans deserve a set of AI guardrails that promote responsible innovation, and doing that through Congress ensures the true interests of the American people are honored. I welcome any effort by the Administration to work with, and not around, Congress to establish a federal AI framework.”

“I’ve built my career advocating for digital protections for our most vulnerable Americans, including children and seniors, from cyber threats like fraud, data breaches, deepfakes, and more. Businesses do better—and strive to do better—when commonsense laws are in place to guide their decisions," said Rep. April McClain Delaney. “Trump's Executive Order fails to recognize the important role states play in shaping the policies that drive U.S. competitiveness and innovation. It could not be more clear: the Administration is actively seeking ways to make the internet a more dangerous place.”

The legislation is cosponsored in the House by Representatives Jake Auchincloss (D-MA), Becca Balint (D-VT), Nanette Barragán (D-CA), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Sean Casten (D-IL), Judy Chu (D-CA), Gil Cisneros (D-CA), Angie Craig (D-MN), Maxine Dexter (D-OR), Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX), Bill Foster (D-IL), Valerie Foushee (D-NC), Laura Friedman (D-CA), Ro Khanna (D-CA), John Larson (D-CT), Sarah McBride (D-DE), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Morgan McGarvey (D-KY), Jim McGovern (D-MA), Rob Menendez (D-NJ), Kelly Morrison (D-MN), Mike Quigley (D-IL), Luz Rivas (D-CA), Hillary Scholten (D-MI), Mark Takano (D-CA), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC).


Rep. Sara Jacobs: A Leading Voice Against Trump’s Reckless War in Iran

Since President Trump launched a reckless and illegal regime-change operation in Iran, Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) has been a leading voice in Congress, pushing for an end to this war, supporting a bipartisan war powers resolution, leading oversight of instances of civilian harm, and vowing to oppose the Pentagon’s floated $200 billion defense supplemental package.

In the immediate aftermath of the first U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran, Rep. Sara Jacobs told Kaitlan Collins at CNN: “I think this is one of, if not the biggest, blunders in American foreign policy.” She went on to say: “We’ve seen this before in Iraq and Afghanistan, and I’m very concerned that so far we have seen absolutely no plan for what comes next, absolutely no real strategy around this. We know that the U.S. actually is very bad at military adventurism in the Middle East. We’re very bad at regime change and at predicting what trying to regime change will lead to. And we don’t even have to look to other countries, right? It’s the U.S.’s own history of the CIA coup in Iran in the 50s that is in part what led to this very brutal Iranian regime today.”

She has also criticized President Trump for following the lead of PM Netanyahu, saying on MS Now: “Bibi Netanyahu has literally been trying to get presidents from both parties to do a regime change operation in Iran with him for decades. Donald Trump is just the first one stupid enough to actually do it.”

In a fiery speech on the House Floor, Rep. Sara Jacobs urged her colleagues to vote for the bipartisan war powers resolution to prohibit the Trump Administration’s further hostilities against Iran. She said: “While [our troops are] willing to make those sacrifices, we in Congress should be damn sure it’s worth it. Too often, it’s not…My colleagues will try to claim that voting for this war powers resolution hurts our service members. But the opposite is true…if any of my colleagues vote no [on the war powers resolution], they should come to my district, look our service members in the eye, and explain why they believe debating before we risk their lives is a bad thing.”

At a House Armed Services Committee hearing on March 5th, Rep. Sara Jacobs questioned Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby, who was unable to answer questions about whether or not the U.S. is at war, the objectives, or the total cost to the American people. In part, Rep. Jacobs said: “The American people are not stupid. Under Secretary Colby, this administration keeps telling us this is not Iraq, while using the exact same arguments that were used to justify the war in Iraq…And you literally can’t even tell me whether this is a war, what we’re trying to achieve, or how much it’s going to cost the American people. My generation has been paying our entire lives for forever wars that your president promised to end. And yet, you sit here today unable to provide us with any clarity. Our service members and the American people deserve better.”

As Founder and Co-Chair of the Protection of Civilians in Conflict caucus, Rep. Sara Jacobs, alongside Reps. Yassamin Ansari and Jason Crow, led a total of 121 House Democrats in demanding answers on civilian harm during Operation Epic Fury, including a reported U.S. strike on an Iranian girls’ elementary school, where at least 175 civilians, many of them children, were killed. She told NBC News that “we should all feel deeply ashamed by the killing of 175 civilians, mostly little children, who have nothing to do with this awful, reckless war…President Trump is denying any U.S. involvement in this strike and blaming Iran without any evidence and before the investigation is even complete.”

At a House Foreign Affairs Services Committee hearing on March 18th, Rep. Sara Jacobs questioned the State Department’s Under Secretary for Management Jason Evans about the failure to adequately inform, prepare, and evacuate Americans in the Middle East. In part, Rep. Jacobs said, “Why is it that we were unprepared to evacuate Americans on a crisis that we started and we were more prepared to evacuate Americans from Afghanistan in a crisis that we didn’t start?” In response, Evans said: “Uh I would not say we were not prepared.”

On CNN yesterday, Rep. Sara Jacobs vowed to vote against any defense supplemental package, including the floated $200 billion package. She said: “I will not be voting for any supplemental for this war for two reasons: one, I think that this war is wrong. It’s ill-advised, it’s illegal, and sending more money only allows them to escalate further. But also because we’ve seen in multiple court proceedings that it is viewed that if you fund a war, it is viewed as de facto Congress authorizing the war, and I do not think this war should be authorized…Not to mention the fact that $200 billion is the equivalent of the budget of the Department of Education, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development combined.”

Rep. Sara Jacobs ran for Congress to be a voice for her generation and San Diego, the country’s biggest military community, and to caution about the unintended consequences of forever wars. Through her roles on the House Foreign Affairs and House Armed Services Committees, she has worked to shift U.S. foreign policy away from a military-first approach to instead focus on conflict prevention and addressing the root causes, as well as reining in presidential war powers. Before Congress, she worked at the State Department, UNICEF, and the United Nations to address, minimize, and prevent conflict, instability, and inequality around the world.


Stefanik Statement on Trump Administration Lawsuit Against Harvard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, released the following statement:

"This is the absolute correct decision by the Trump Administration to sue Harvard for failing to protect Jewish students.

This is after years of Congressional oversight work that I was proud to lead in holding Harvard accountable."


Steube, Burchett Introduce The CLEAR Act

WASHINGTON — Representatives Greg Steube (R-Fla.) and Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) have introduced the Criminalizing Law Enforcement Access Restriction or CLEAR Act, legislation to impose enhanced penalties on rioters who obstruct federal law enforcement vehicles or weaponize civilian vehicles to attack officers.

“Violent rioters have been allowed to obstruct law enforcement, surround officers, and use vehicles as weapons without facing the full consequences under federal law,” said Rep. Steube. “That ends now. If you go after federal law enforcement, you will be held accountable.”

“Protestors who go out of their way to make law enforcement’s job even harder, and those who put the men and women in uniform’s lives at risk, deserve to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The CLEAR Act solves that. I am proud to stand with my friend Rep. Stuebe in protecting the lives of our federal law enforcement officers.” said Rep. Burchett.

The CLEAR Act amends Section 111 of Title 18 to ensure enhanced penalties of up to 20 years imprisonment apply to individuals who use a vehicle to assault, resist, or interfere with a federal law enforcement officer, or obstruct a federal law enforcement officer operating in a vehicle.

The legislation is supported by Law Enforcement Legal Defense Fund.

“Over the past decade, more than 120 law enforcement officers including 3 federal agents have been killed in the line-of-duty by vehicular assaults and hundreds more seriously injured. Those that seek to kill, maim, or intimidate those that protect and serve our nation and our communities deserve swift and severe justice.” —Jason Johnson, President, Law Enforcement Defense Fund

Background: Across our country, violent riots have increasingly included tactics designed to stop law enforcement from doing their jobs, including surrounding vehicles, blocking access routes, and using vehicles as weapons.

According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, tens of thousands of law enforcement officers are assaulted each year. The U.S. Department of Justice has charged hundreds of individuals in recent years for assaulting or impeding federal officers during periods of unrest.

Despite existing federal penalties for assaulting officers, gaps in current law have allowed bad actors to evade consequences when obstructing law enforcement vehicles or using vehicles as weapons. The CLEAR Act closes those loopholes and ensures these actions are met with the full force of federal law.


Congressman Shri Thanedar Speaks Out Against Trump’s Homeland Security Secretary Nominee Markwayne Mullin

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Shri Thanedar, the Top Democrat on Homeland Security’s Oversight, Investigations, and Accountability Subcommittee, issued the following statement in opposition to Markwayne Mullin, Trump’s recent pick to serve as the Secretary of Homeland Security.

“Markwayne Mullin is a violent, unqualified thug who does not have the temperament to serve as the Secretary of Homeland Security. As the ranking member of Oversight Investigations and Accountability on the Committee on Homeland Security, I urge our Senators to vote NO to confirming Markwayne Mullin.

The Department of Homeland Security’s biggest issue since Donald Trump has returned to office has been rampant violence from ICE and other agencies within the Department, so a Secretary with such a long track record of enthusiastically supporting violence is the last thing that the Department needs right now.

During his time in Congress, Mullin has:

Attempted to fight a witness during a committee hearing

Condoned a violent attack against one of his Senate colleagues from his own party

Told Americans, “Every now and then, you need to get punched in the face”

Cited a violent, pro-slavery Congressman who savagely beat an anti-slavery Senator with a cane in the Senate Chamber as an inspiration for his violent tendencies

Now more than ever, we need a Secretary who will work to bring down violence and deescalate tensions, but putting Markwayne Mullin in as Secretary will only lead to more violence and more extreme tension. I am urging all of my colleagues in the Senate to vote against confirming Markwayne Mullin to avoid ruining the reputation of the Department of Homeland Security even further.”

Congressman Shri Thanedar proudly represents Michigan's 13th Congressional District, which includes Detroit, Downriver, and the Grosse Pointes. As a champion for working families, Shri is committed to advancing economic opportunities, education, healthcare access, and entrepreneurship for underserved communities. Drawing from his journey from poverty to success, he works tirelessly to uplift Metro Detroit, ensuring every resident has the resources and support they need to thrive.

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Rep. Tokuda Postpones Lahaina Town Hall Amid Severe Weather Conditions

Hawaiʻi - U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda (HI-02) announced the postponement of the upcoming community town hall in Lahaina as a second Kona low continues to impact the state with life-threatening flash flooding and emergency evacuations.

The town hall originally scheduled for Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the Lahaina Civic Center Social Hall is postponed until further notice. This change is necessary as severe weather conditions are currently impacting the islands and are expected to persist through the weekend.

“The safety of our community is my top priority,” said Rep. Tokuda. “With the ground already saturated and more heavy rain on the way, the risk of flash flooding and road closures is simply too high. I am calling on everyone to stay off the roads, listen to our first responders, and heed all evacuation orders immediately. We have seen how quickly these conditions can turn catastrophic, and we cannot take any chances with people's lives.”

Rep. Tokuda has been in constant communication with City, County, State, and Federal officials to coordinate a unified response. She has also been in direct contact with leadership from the 25th Infantry Division at Schofield Barracks, who are prepared to assist in the ongoing emergency efforts.

Residents across the islands are urged to sign up for their county’s emergency notification systems to receive real-time updates and safety information:

City and County of Honolulu: HNL.Alert

Maui County: Maui County Alerts

Hawaiʻi County: Hazard Alerts and Notifications

A new date for the Lahaina town hall will be announced once conditions are safe for the community to gather. Residents who need assistance or have questions regarding federal resources are encouraged to contact Rep. Tokuda’s office at (808) 746-6220.

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Rep. Vasquez Marks One-Year Anniversary of Young Park Shooting, Honors Victims & Calls for Continued Action to Prevent Youth Violence

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On March 20, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) released the following statement in response to the one-year anniversary of the tragic Young Park shooting in Las Cruces that took the lives of three teenagers and injured 15 others on March 21, 2025.

“It has been one year since this tragic shooting shook Las Cruces, but for many, especially the families who lost loved ones, the pain of March 21, 2025 very much remains. My heart is with every victim, survivor, and loved one still navigating the long road to healing.

We all know violence like this has no place in Las Cruces or any community. Over the past year, I’ve worked alongside local leaders, educators, law enforcement, and families to take action and help prevent tragedies like this from happening again. That includes securing resources for local law enforcement, expanding access to mental health support for our young people, investing in safe spaces for our kids, holding Big Tech accountable to curb illegal online gun sales on their platforms, and supporting commonsense gun safety measures like Ethan’s Law.

Our young people deserve better, and we owe it to them to not just remember, but to act. I remain committed to doing everything in my power to keep our kids safe and build a stronger, safer future for Las Cruces.”

After a series of meetings with local law enforcement officials following the Young Park shooting, Rep. Vasquez sent a letter to Big Tech CEOs at Meta, Snapchat, and Telegram demanding that they take action to curb illegal gun sales and cyber bullying on their platforms. This letter was sent after local law enforcement officers flagged illegal gun sales and bullying on these platforms as a key driver of youth violence in New Mexico communities.

Rep. Vasquez remains committed to taking ongoing, concrete action to prevent youth violence in Las Cruces and across New Mexico, including:

Securing Resources to Keep Our Communities Safe:

Secured over $9 billion in public safety funding for state and local law enforcement to keep our kids safe, combat cartels, and support crime victims

Secured $1 million for new streetlights and infrastructure in Las Cruces through the Lift Up Las Cruces Project, keeping Las Cruces’ streets better lit at night to keep pedestrians safe.

Secured $1.06 million for the Albuquerque Police Department to deploy more public safety cameras for the “Real Time Crime Center,” strengthening crime prevention, intervention, and investigation efforts across the city and in Albuquerque Public Schools.

Secured $500,000 for Bernalillo County to acquire advanced public safety hardware and software, including gunshot detection technology, to improve law enforcement efficiency and crime response speed.

Pushing for Youth Violence Prevention

Secured $1.4 million for the Boys and Girls Club of Las Cruces to renovate the facility and provide Las Cruces youth a safe space to learn, grow, and relax outside of school hours.

Cosponsor of theLatino Youth Mental Health Empowerment Act to improve mental health among the Hispanic and Latino youth populations and expand access to services for all young New Mexicans.

Joined letter pushing for $20 million for the Department of Justice’s Children Exposed to Violence initiative in the 2027 government funding bill, requesting at least $10 million to be used for the Youth Violence Prevention Program to prevent young people in New Mexico from getting involved with gangs.

Cosigned letter supporting $130 million for the Youth Mentoring Program under the Department of Justice’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention in the 2027 government funding bill to prevent New Mexico’s young people from dropping out of school, using illegal substances and becoming involved in violence.

Combating Online Threats for Youth

Cosponsor of the Combating Cartels on Social Media Act to require DHS to develop and implement a national strategy to combat illicit recruitment of American citizens through social media and introduced the No More Narcos Actto create a coordinated educational campaign led by the Department of Justice to teach middle and high school students within 100 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border about the dangers of working with cartels

Promoting Responsible Gun Ownership and Gun Safety:

Cosponsored Ethan's Law to require that all firearms be locked and secured in homes with minors or individuals who would be legally prohibited from owning a gun to keep guns out of the hands of those who shouldn’t have them.

Supports the Bipartisan Background Checks Act to require a background check for all gun sales.

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Vindman, Pfluger, & Baumgartner Introduce Legislation to Protect Americans and Combat Deadly Nitazenes

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07), August Pfluger (R-Texas-11), Michael Baumgartner (R-Wash.-05) introduced a bipartisan bill to address the alarming rise in nitazenes, a new class of synthetic opioids that are stronger and deadlier than fentanyl.

This bipartisan, bicameral legislation directs the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate to coordinate with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to enhance technologies to detect illicit substances, particularly nitazenes, at extremely low concentrations.

“For months, I’ve been working to stop the spread of dangerous nitazenes — highly potent synthetic drugs deemed ‘the new fentanyl’ that are devastating communities across Virginia and the country,” said Vindman. “I’m proud to co-lead a bipartisan bill to strengthen law enforcement’s ability to detect and stop the spread of these deadly substances before they claim more lives. We cannot wait for this crisis to escalate further. I will continue working to confront the growing threat of nitazenes with the urgency it demands.”

The legislation will also give law enforcement the resources, research, capacity, and technology needed to interdict and eliminate nitazenes. The DEA added nitazenes to its 2025 National Drug Threat assessment, further emphasizing the need for legislation to combat this drug.

“Nitazenes are an emerging class of illicit drugs that pose a serious threat to Americans’ health and safety, yet today, these deadly drugs have not received the level of attention necessary to combat them. The DETECT Nitazenes Act will close critical gaps in detection capabilities, support law enforcement efforts, and improve public safety outcomes by enabling faster and more accurate identification of these deadly substances. As the risk from synthetic drugs continues to evolve, this legislation ensures that we remain prepared to respond to the next generation of deadly narcotics and protect our communities,” said Pfluger.

“Nitazenes are poised to become the next deadly wave of the opioid crisis – cheaper than fentanyl, easy to traffic, and even more lethal. As cartels quietly mix these drugs into counterfeit pills and powders, too many communities are being put at risk without even knowing it,” said Baumgartner. “The DETECT Nitazenes Act gives law enforcement the tools they need to actually find and stop this threat. I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort to keep our communities safe and stay one step ahead of the cartels.”

The bill is led in the U.S. Senate by Senator Eric Schmitt (R-Mo). U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-Penn.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), and Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) are all original co-sponsors on the legislation.

“Nitazenes are powerful synthetic opioids that are stronger than fentanyl, cheaper to produce, and devastatingly lethal. These deadly drugs are taking American lives, and we must get smart on them before they devastate communities across Missouri and the nation,” said Schmitt. “I was proud to introduce the DETECT Nitazenes Act in the Senate and am encouraged to see my colleagues introduce it in the House. I urge both the House and the Senate to take up this critical bill to help tackle this crisis before nitazenes get out of control.”

You can read the full bill text here.

BACKGROUND

In August 2025, Vindman and Baumgartner introduced the first-ever bill in Congress to address the alarming rise of nitazenes. The bipartisan, bicameral Nitazene Control Act would permanently schedule the entire class of nitazenes under Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. The introduction of this bill marked a major milestone in Congress’s effort to combat the opioid epidemic.

Also in August, Vindman and Baumgartner toured the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Clandestine Lab & Training Facility in Quantico, Virginia. During their visit, agents emphasized the urgent need for Congress to take action against deadly nitazenes.

Vindman has also long been engaged in the fight against the fentanyl epidemic — backing the HALT Fentanyl Act, the FEND Off Fentanyl Act, and increased federal resources for law enforcement and treatment programs to address the opioid crisis.

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Congressman James Walkinshaw, Workhouse Arts Center Host Voting Rights Conversation on Historic Grounds Where Suffragists Were Imprisoned

LORTON, VA – This Women's History Month, Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11), in partnership with the Workhouse Arts Center, will host a powerful and timely discussion examining the future of voting rights in America.

The event, titled “Voices That Shape History. Conversations That Shape Tomorrow,” will take place on Monday, March 23, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Workhouse Arts Center, located at 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton, VA.

The program will feature a thought-provoking panel discussion surrounding the SAVE Act, exploring the devastating effects that this legislation would have on women, minorities, and rural communities.

Following the panel discussion, attendees will have a chance to visit the Lorton Prison Museum and featuring the Lucy Burns Gallery. The Workhouse gained early visibility by holding suffragists Lucy Burns, Dora Lewis, and dozens more. The treatment of the suffragists while at the Occoquan Workhouse in 1917 would play a pivotal role in the fight to pass the 19th Amendment, and today's attendees will walk the same grounds where these courageous women were imprisoned for demanding their right to vote.

“Standing on the very grounds where women were imprisoned and tortured for demanding the right to vote is a powerful reminder that democracy is never guaranteed. Every generation is called to defend it,” said Congressman Walkinshaw. “The suffragists who suffered here did not endure injustice so future Americans could be pushed away from the ballot box by cynical attacks on their rights. As bills like the SAVE Act threaten access to the vote for millions of women, minorities, and rural Americans, we have a responsibility to speak out, organize, and fight back. I am proud to partner with the Workhouse Arts Center to bring our community together in this historic place to honor the legacy of the suffragists and continue their unfinished fight for equal access to the ballot box.”

Katie Crooks, Director of Museum and Visitor Experience at the Workhouse Arts Center, emphasized the profound significance of the setting:

"Our museum stands as a testament to the resilience of the suffragists who were imprisoned within these walls simply for demanding a voice in their government. To host a conversation about the future of voting rights here is to remind ourselves that history is not a distant relic—it is a through-line connecting the courage of Lucy Burns to the advocates of today. We are honored to provide a space where our community can be inspired by the past and empowered to shape tomorrow."

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Reps. Casten, Levin, Watson Coleman Lead Sweeping Energy Bills Relief Act to Lower Utility Bills for Hardworking Americans

WASHINGTON, DC — Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) joined House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC) Clean Energy Deployment Task Force Co-Chairs U.S. Congressmen Sean Casten (IL-06) and Mike Levin (CA-49), along with more than 100 House Democrats, to introduce the Energy Bills Relief Act. This legislation takes a family- and consumer-focused approach to United States energy policy that ensures Americans have access to the most reliable and low-cost source of power available.

"The people of New Jersey have seen their electricity bills go up by as much as 16.9%. That is unacceptable, and Congress must act quickly to bring costs down," said Watson Coleman. "The Energy Bills Relief Act does just that by connecting American consumers with low-cost, reliable clean energy. I'm proud to join Reps. Casten and Levin in introducing this bill that puts the American people first."

The Energy Bills Relief Act prioritizes consumers and ensures access to low-cost energy for our homes, businesses, and economy by:

Reinstating tax credits for home and system-wide energy improvements that were ended by President Trump and congressional Republicans

Incentivizing utility companies to save consumers’ money by rewarding them for making their systems more efficient, thereby lowering bills

Providing financial assistance to American families to make sure their power isn’t shut off

Cracking down on price gouging, so energy companies can’t take advantage of you to boost their profits

Ensuring that facilities like data centers are paying for their own costs because it’s not fair for their expenses to be pushed onto your household if one opens in your area

Giving a voice to the American people so they can benefit from energy projects in their community

Electricity rates are surging nationwide, and millions of households are struggling to pay their rising energy bills. The most effective way to lower utility costs for American households is to expand access to renewable energy — the most reliable and low-cost energy source.

We have the tools to power America with abundant, reliable, American-made clean energy. The missing link between those tools and expanded access to that low-cost and efficient energy is a consumer-first energy policy.

For too long, U.S. energy policy has boosted the profits of energy producers at the expense of energy consumers. The Energy Bills Relief Act shifts our focus to lowering costs and increasing reliability for American homes and businesses by deploying more renewable energy. It is firmly rooted in the American values of choice and competition. It prioritizes consumers and ensures access to low-cost energy for our homes, businesses, and economy.


From the Front: March 20, 2026

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From the Front: March 20, 2026
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SENATOR ALSOBROOKS SPEAKS ON THE SENATE FLOOR: ‘REPUBLICANS ARE SEEKING TO SUPPRESS THE VOTE’

TRAVEL ALERT: To receive the latest security alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate, we encourage all Maryland constituents abroad to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), follow the U.S. Department of State – Security Updates for U.S. Citizens channel on WhatsApp (click the link) and follow the Department of State on social media at @TravelGov. Constituents can also find alerts at the Embassy’s website and on Travel.State.gov. Marylanders in the Middle East who need to reach the State Department can call Consular Affairs 24/7 at +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) and +1-888-407-4747 (from the United States and Canada).

“You don’t save America by silencing the voices of Americans. You save America by embracing the ideals that set us apart to begin with.” – Senator Alsobrooks

March 20, 2026

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) spoke on the Senate Floor in opposition to the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act.

WATCH FULL FLOOR SPEECH HERE

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Baldwin Backs Bipartisan Bill to Bring Transparency to Fertilizer Prices for Wisconsin Farmers

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) introduced the Fertilizer Transparency Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation that would provide American producers with more accurate information on prices for fertilizer and fertilizer products in response to longstanding concerns over rising input costs. The bill would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to collect and publish data on fertilizer prices from manufacturers on a weekly basis. Currently, USDA conducts an annual voluntary survey on the prices that producers pay for inputs.

“Wisconsin farmers work hard every single day to feed our communities, but skyrocketing fertilizer costs are squeezing them – and this war in Iran is only making matters worse,” said Senator Baldwin. “Higher fertilizer costs cut into farmers’ bottom lines and increase costs for folks at the grocery store – and we need to do everything we can to address this. I am proud to work with my colleagues in both parties to help bring real transparency and accountability to the fertilizer market and fight to lower farmers’ input costs.”

After President Trump started his illegal war with Iran, Wisconsin farmers are seeing the price of fertilizer soar. One-third of the world’s fertilizer passes through the Strait of Hormuz, and since the attacks on the shipping lane, prices have gone up 25%. Those placing new orders of fertilizer are unsure of availability, creating more uncertainty in future crop yields as spring planting begins. The increased fertilizer costs come as President Trump’s unconstitutional war is also raising the price of diesel used to operate farm machinery. These increased input costs for American farmers, combined with Trump’s trade war, mean higher grocery store prices for Wisconsin families.

The legislation is led by Senator John Thune (R-SD) and cosponsored by Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA).

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Baldwin to Republicans: Stop Holding TSA Workers and Wisconsin Travelers Hostage

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) called on her Senate Republican colleagues to join her and fund TSA, FEMA, and other critical agencies at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Senate Republicans have now – on nine separate occasions – blocked bills to fund TSA, FEMA, CISA, Coast Guard, and other important DHS functions. These bills did not include funding for ICE and Border Patrol as negotiations to reform those are actively ongoing.

“Wisconsin families going on Spring Break or folks traveling for work should not be held hostage because of politics in Washington,” said Senator Baldwin. “There is no good reason that we cannot fund TSA and get its workers the paychecks they’ve earned, while also continuing our work to rein in ICE’s lawlessness. We can and must do both – it's what Wisconsinites are demanding.”

Since DHS has been shut down, Senate Democrats have attempted to fund DHS, with the exception of ICE numerous times, including:

On March 5th, Senate Republicans:

Blocked a bill to fund all of DHS except for ICE, CBP, and the DHS Secretary’s office while negotiations on ICE and Border Patrol continue.

On March 11th, Senate Republicans:

Again, blocked a bill to fund all of DHS except for ICE, CBP, and the DHS Secretary’s office while talks continue. Watch Senator Baldwin’s floor speech here.

On March 12th, Senate Republicans:

Blocked a bill to pay TSA workers while broader negotiations continue.

Blocked a bill to fund CISA while broader negotiations continue.

Blocked a bill to ensure members of the Coast Guard are paid while broader negotiations continue.

Blocked a bill to fund FEMA while broader negotiations continue.

On March 18th, Senate Republicans:

Blocked a bill to pay TSA workers while broader negotiations continue.

On March 19th, Senate Republicans:

Blocked a bill to pay TSA workers while broader negotiations continue.

Blocked a bill to fund all of DHS except for ICE, CBP, and the DHS Secretary’s office while talks continue.

After the killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, Senator Baldwin announced that she would not support any additional funding for DHS without increased transparency, accountability, and stronger guardrails to rein in ICE. Senator Baldwin also called on Secretary Noem to resign immediately. Two-thirds of Americans say ICE and Border Patrol have gone “too far” with their tactics. A Marquette Law School poll found 6 in 10 Americans disapprove of the job ICE is doing, while 3 in 4 Americans support making changes at ICE.

Senator Baldwin also co-sponsors a bill, the PUBLIC SAFETY Act, to redirect almost $75 billion in funding passed in the Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and send it instead to local law enforcement to help hire and train 200,000 local cops in communities across the U.S.

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Sen. Banks on America Reports: “Dems Playing Games with America’s Safety”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) joined Sandra Smith to discuss day 34 of the Democrat shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security.

Click the video above to listen to the full discussion.

Key Excerpts Below:

Sen. Banks: “…Democrats in the Senate for the 12th time just blocked funding to go to reopen the Department of Homeland Security. Keep in mind, this is while we have a war going on with Iran, which is the biggest state sponsor of terrorism in the world, and the Democrats have shut down the Department of Homeland Security, which is supposed to be keeping us safe. That’s how crazy and out of touch these Democrats are. They’re playing games, political games, with the safety and security of the American people, not to mention these hardworking TSA agents… I’m in the airport all the time flying back and forth from Washington back to Indiana. They work hard in the Indianapolis airport. They’re showing up every day to work. And they’ve now missed two pay periods, two paychecks. They’re not getting paid because the Democrats are playing games with their paychecks and their livelihood. It’s crazy. I can’t believe that the Democrats are this out of touch that they don’t want to reopen one of the most important departments that exists to keep us safe.”

Sen. Banks: “… the airports are going to get worse and worse until we resolve it and fund the Department of Homeland Security. But these Democrats, I mean, whether it’s funding the Department of Homeland Security and the important people that are doing their jobs there, or the Save America Act, which is the most common sense and popular bill that I have ever seen in my 10 years in Congress, for voter ID to keep boys out of girls’ sports and to stop transgender surgeries on children, the Democrats are going to vote against that, too. That’s how crazy they are. They do not understand that the vast majority of the American people support these things… They’re more interested in defunding the police than they are any real reforms for any of these agencies that they’re complaining about. These are political games unlike anything that we’ve ever seen before.”

Sen. Banks: “… the Democrats are a moving target… their demands change from day to day. Chuck Schumer and the Democrats refuse to come to the table. They don’t really want to make a deal. They want to play political games. And that’s really what this is all about.”

Sen. Banks: “This is dangerous… the Democrats are playing games here with the American people, with our safety, with not just with travel, but with the economy of the United States of America. The Democrats want it all to fail because Donald Trump is in the White House and they hate Donald Trump. And that’s what this all goes back to… enough is enough. Come to the table. Republicans are unified in reopening the Department of Homeland Security because it’s so important to keep us safe, and the Democrats are nowhere to be found.”

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