Clyburn To Co-Host the Faith and Politics Institute’s 2026 Congressional Civil Rights Pilgrimage in Charleston, South Carolina

‘One Country, One Destiny: Celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the U.S.’

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA – Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) will co-host the Faith and Politics Institute’s Annual Pilgrimage in Charleston, South Carolina alongside Senator Tim Scott (R-SC). As America celebrates its 250th Anniversary, this year’s congressional pilgrimage will offer Members of Congress and leaders a powerful opportunity for reflection and growth.

This bipartisan journey invites participants to engage with Charleston’s complex history and cultivate resilience for a brighter future for all Americans and towards a more perfect union. Charleston and its people have played a pivotal role in the American Revolution and the evolution of our nation’s ideals. This Pilgrimage aims to illuminate these inspiring and sometimes poignant stories, fostering education among Members of Congress through a weekend filled with meaningful events and enriching programs.

In 1998, Congressman John Lewis began leading the Faith & Politics Institute’s Congressional pilgrimages to Alabama to retrace his steps on the anniversary of “Bloody Sunday,” which occurred on March 7, 1965. Since then, the Faith & Politics Institute has organized annual pilgrimages to Alabama and other domestic and international locations. The pilgrimages include intergenerational conversations that facilitate the sharing of wisdom among activists, changemakers, contemporary thought leaders in politics, historians, and figures from the arts.

“It is my pleasure to welcome my Congressional colleagues, partners, and community members to the 2026 Faith and Politics Institutes’ Congressional Civil Rights Pilgrimage. As we come together in my home state of South Carolina, I am inspired by the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. when he intoned: ‘We must keep moving. If you can’t fly, run; if you can’t run, walk; crawl; but by all means keep moving,’” said Congressman James E. Clyburn. “Movement defines the American story which encompasses African American history in which this state has played a pivotal and powerful role. South Carolina is inextricably linked to the struggles as well as the achievements of our great nation. As we begin this pilgrimage, let us recognize and properly honor the past, but also acknowledge the present and embrace opportunities for positive change.”

“I am honored to be able to welcome all of the participants of the 2026 Faith and Freedom Pilgrimage to my hometown of Charleston, South Carolina,” said Senator Tim Scott. “Charleston’s history predates the founding of our nation, and it is a place where faith has anchored communities through every trial this nation has faced. Here, the American promise has been imperfectly kept but never abandoned. I believe our nation is capable of living up to her founding ideals, and I look forward to exploring that with my colleagues. We will come together not in a spirit of division, but of unity, grateful for how far we have come and committed to the values that have carried us this far.”

“Hosting this bipartisan pilgrimage in Charleston is both a privilege and a responsibility,” said Robert Traynham, President of the Faith & Politics Institute. “As we reflect on the theme One Country, One Destiny, we are reminded that understanding our history, especially in places as consequential as Charleston, is essential to building a more perfect union.”

Additional information on the Faith and Politics 2026 pilgrimage can be found here.

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Dingell Delivers State of the District in Ann Arbor

Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) today delivered her annual State of the District Address to the A2Y Regional Chamber.

In her remarks, Rep. Dingell provided updates on legislative successes from the previous year and addressed current issues including religious hate, ICE, the state of healthcare, the situation in Iran, and provided an update on the Gelman Plume.

Key excerpts as prepared

On Religious Hate:

“I am grateful no students or staff were injured in yesterday’s attack on Temple Israel synagogue. Houses of worship are meant to be sacred places. Places where people go for prayer, reflection, and clarity. Yet yesterday’s horrible attack reminds us once again that antisemitism and hatred are real threats. This kind of hate is unacceptable and happening too much.”

“We have to stand up to hate whenever and whenever we see it. Period. Parents are afraid to send their children to school again, or gatherings. Faith communities are feeling very vulnerable and also question ‘can this happen to us?’”

“We cannot normalize violence. We’ve got to stand together right now. People of all faiths and backgrounds need to say that violence and hatred cannot divide us. We stand united in supporting our Jewish neighbors, we’re united in condemning antisemitism, and we need to be united in condemning all forms of religious hate.”

On the Gelman Plume:

“Yesterday, the EPA announced it was adding the contaminated Gelman Sciences site to the Superfund National Priorities List. This marks a major milestone for the community and everyone who worked for years to hold Gelman accountable and ensure this contamination receives the resources it needs to support clean up.”

“This was only made possible due to the years of persistence of this community, but our work is not over. We must continue working with the EPA, state and local partners to ensure this cleanup is transparent and drinking water is safe. Our community deserves nothing less.”

“Many people across our region also care deeply about the rising cost of living, particularly housing. In communities like Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, the demand for housing has increased faster than new homes are being built. As a result, the cost to rent or buy a home has risen dramatically.”

On Iran:

“President Trump’s unilateral decision to strike Iran should concern us all. The American people have lived through decades of war in the Middle East, and there is deep concern about being pulled once again into an conflict with no clear strategy or defined end that puts American servicemembers in harms’ way. We’re all mourning the lives of the servicemembers who have already died in this rush to war.”

“There is no question that the Iranian regime was brutal. It slaughtered its own people, massacred thousands, and posed a serious threat to regional security, especially in its quest to secure dangerous weapons.”

“However, acknowledging the evil of a regime does not relieve us of the responsibility to ask hard questions about what comes next. Will American troops be deployed? What’s our exit strategy? What will this mean for American servicemembers and their families? What are our NATO partners and regional allies saying?”

“America must always defend its national security interests and protect its personnel. And the Constitution is clear—only Congress has the responsibility to decide whether we take this country to war, and that responsibility cannot be sidelined. That’s why I voted in support of a War Powers Resolution to curb the President’s use of military force in Iran without congressional authorization. The resolution failed, but we will continue to push for congressional oversight.”

On ICE:

“The divisions in this country are raw. I have joined several vigils throughout the district where people came together peacefully to mourn and speak out.”

“Last week, Secretary Kristi Noem was fired. While the decision was long overdue, Americans still want serious reforms that would ensure ICE follows the same rules as other law enforcement agencies, like no masks, judicial warrants, mandatory body cameras, no more deporting and arresting American citizens, and no more targeting children in schools, hospitals, or places of worship.”

“Unfortunately, my colleagues across the aisle have not presented any meaningful reforms to ICE. As a result, the Department of Homeland Security remains shut down, along with TSA and FEMA.”

“Funding for TSA and FEMA is deeply important, especially following the severe storms Michigan experienced last weekend. But ICE’s actions must be addressed as immigration enforcement expands across Southeast Michigan.”

“Last month, ICE confirmed it purchased a warehouse in Romulus with plans to convert it into a detention center. The Romulus City Council has passed a resolution opposing the project, and officials across all levels of government are exploring options to try to stop it.”

On Healthcare:

“I’ve heard from hundreds of people who can’t afford their health insurance anymore and have decided to go without. When people lose coverage, they don’t stop getting sick. They simply end up in emergency rooms without insurance. This places enormous strain on hospitals and the healthcare system. In fact, at least four Michigan hospitals are at risk of closure, and others have already been forced to reduce services.”

“And it’s not just Medicaid beneficiaries and those on the exchange who will be impacted – premiums, copays, and deductibles for employer-sponsored insurance will rise too. “

“Despite these challenges, I’m proud to have passed several bipartisan healthcare bills this Congress. These include the Mikaela Naylon Give Kids A Chance Act to accelerate treatments for children battling rare diseases, and the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act to reduce burnout and suicide among health care professionals.”

“We also passed my Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Discrimination Prevention Act, which prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in the organ transplant system, and the Shandra Eisenga Human Cell and Tissue Product Safety Act to strengthen oversight of bone graft and tissue companies after the tragic death of a Michigander due to contaminated tissue.”

“These bills are great examples of what’s possible when we work across the aisle to focus on the issues that matter. I hope to see them get through the Senate to the president’s desk this year."


Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher, Congresswoman Val Hoyle, and Congressman Joe Neguse Lead Effort To Support Funding for Federal Natural Disaster Research and Preparedness

Today, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Congresswoman Val Hoyle (OR-04), and Congressman Joe Neguse (CO-02) led 27 of their House colleagues in sending a letter to the House Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies requesting that Congress fund the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) at a level of at least $605 million in the upcoming appropriations package. This comes after President Trump attempted to cut all funding to OAR in his proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget. This funding would allow OAR to continue its critical mission to prepare communities in Texas and across the country for life-threatening natural disasters and to keep the U.S. at the forefront of atmospheric and oceanic research and science.

“Without OAR, NOAA would be unable to fulfill its core mission: to understand and predict changes in climate, weather, oceans, and coasts; to share that knowledge and information with others; and to conserve and responsibly manage coastal and marine ecosystems and resources,” the members wrote. “NOAA OAR helps American communities prepare to face extreme weather events. As hurricane season quickly approaches, OAR’s advancements in predicting extreme weather events are more important than ever. The research and data resulting from the OAR Hurricane Research Division’s partnership with the U.S. National Hurricane Center have saved countless lives and nearly $5 billion per major U.S. hurricane landfall.”

“Stronger science for forecasting severe weather and communicating impacts will protect communities and save lives,” the members continued. “Robust funding will enable NOAA and its research institution partners to continue their long and proud history of partnering with industries and other government agencies to provide that cutting-edge research.”


Ranking Members Foushee and Amo Lead 116 Members Condemning EPA for Putting Polluters Over People and Gutting Research

WASHINGTON, DC (March 13, 2026) — Yesterday, House Science, Space, and Technology Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee Ranking Member Valerie Foushee (D-NC) and Environment Subcommittee Ranking Member Gabe Amo (D-RI) led a group of 116 Members of Congress in denouncing the Trump Administration’s decision to close the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Office of Research and Development (ORD), which provided the scientific foundations for fighting climate change and holding polluters accountable.

The Members write in a letter to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin:

“For decades, ORD research has served as the scientific backbone for lifesaving EPA actions. Its research has armed our nation with the facts needed to confront toxic mercury, dangerous air pollutants, and contaminated water.

The EPA’s mission is clear: protect human health and safeguard our environment. It is not to shield corporate polluters from accountability or trade children’s lungs for quarterly earnings.

Divorcing EPA actions from unbiased science will exacerbate climate change and increase its already sky-high cost to taxpayers.

American families will ultimately pay the price in hospital visits, in lost wages, and in rebuilding after floods and fires, while polluters reap the profits.

Eliminating ORD is part of your crusade to gut the EPA and allow big business to pollute with impunity as our constituents get sicker.

In the name of science, in the name of public health, and in the name of every American family who deserves clean air and clean water, we urge you to immediately reopen ORD and return the resources you reallocated.”

The full letter can be found here.

The letter was signed by Representatives Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Gabe Amo (RI-01), Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Becca Balint (VT-At Large), Nanette Barragan (CA-44), Ami Bera (CA-06), Don Beyer (VA-08), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Shontel Brown (OH-11), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Janelle Bynum (OR-05), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Andre Carson (IN-07), Sean Casten (IL-06), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Emmanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Herb Conaway (NJ-03), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Angie Craig (MN-02), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Danny Davis (IL-07), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Bill Foster (IL-11), Laura Friedman (CA-30), John Garamendi (CA-08), Jesus “Chuy” Garcia (IL-04), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Henry “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Bill Keating (MA-09), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Rick Larsen (WA-02), John Larson (CT-01), Summer Lee (PA-12), Mike Levin (CA-49), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), John Mannion (NY-22), Lucy McBath (GA-06), Sarah McBride (DE-At Large), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Betty McCollum (MN-04), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Robert Menendez (NJ-08), Grace Meng (NY-06), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Dave Min (CA-47), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Joseph Morelle (NY-25), Kelly Morrison (MN-03), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Joe Neguse (CO-02), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At Large), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Chris Pappas (NH-01), Scott Peters (CA-50), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Luz Rivas (CA-29), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Raul Ruiz (CA-25), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Robert “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Adam Smith (WA-09), Eric Sorensen (IL-17), Darren Soto (FL-09), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Haley Stevens (MI-11), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Mark Takano (CA-39), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Dina Titus (NV-01), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Nydia Velazquez (NY-07), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and Frederica Wilson (FL-24).

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Rep. Garamendi, Sen. Reed & Rep. Larson Push for ACTION to Increase Service Opportunities Act & Help Students Reduce Their Debt

Gives all those who wish to serve the opportunity to do so by establishing a ten-year goal of providing the necessary federal funding to support at least one million service positions nationwide.

Significantly reduces the burden of student loan debt by ensuring that individuals who serve two full terms of service are rewarded with an education benefit equivalent to four years of the average in-state tuition at a public, four-year college.

Renames the existing Corporation for National and Community Service as the AmeriCorps Administration and elevates it to a Cabinet-level federal agency, including the appointment of a Director of AmeriCorps with the same rank as Cabinet Secretaries. The Director would be required to establish an interagency working group to evaluate both education award eligibility for participants in programs outside of AmeriCorps and the feasibility of granting Federal hiring preference to volunteers.


Reps. Huffman, Min, Lawler, and Fitzpatrick Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Improve E-Bike Safety

Washington, D.C. — Today, Representatives Jared Huffman (CA-02), Dave Min (CA-47), Mike Lawler (NY-17), and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) introduced the Safe Standards for Personal E-Bike and E-Moto Device Specifications Act (Safe SPEEDS Act) to establish a comprehensive federal regulatory standard for e-bikes and other electric micromobility products. This bill will strengthen consumer protections, improve accountability in the e-micromobility market, and support local efforts to reduce crashes and injuries.

"Without clear federal standards, the rapid growth of unregulated e-bikes is creating real safety risks for pedestrians, motorists, bicyclists, and especially children," said Representative Huffman. "The Safe SPEEDS Act closes a decades-long gap in consumer protection by giving the CPSC the tools to set real safety standards, improve data collection, and help local communities respond to this growing challenge. Everyone who shares our roads, sidewalks, and trails across the North Coast deserves to feel safe."

“E-bikes are an affordable, convenient, and popular mode of transportation in my district and across the nation,” said Representative Min. “However, the lack of oversight regarding e-bikes pose serious safety risks to our children and our communities. This bill will ensure federal e-bike standards are clearly defined while also empowering local governments to enhance their safety programs, keeping our communities safe while in transit.”

“Electric bikes are becoming a popular and convenient way for people to get around, but safety standards and consumer information have not kept up with their rapid growth. The Safe SPEEDS Act will create clear national classifications and labeling requirements so riders and families know exactly what they’re buying and how they should be used,” said Representative Lawler.

“E-bikes are quickly becoming a more common sight in communities across the country, offering convenience and new opportunities for riders of all ages. As this technology continues to evolve, our safety standards must evolve with it. The Safe SPEEDS Act establishes clear federal classifications, strengthens transparency for consumers and families, and improves the data communities rely on to better understand crash trends and prevent injuries. This is a smart, common-sense framework that ensures innovation continues responsibly while helping keep riders and communities safe,” said Representative Fitzpatrick.

E-bikes experienced explosive growth accompanied by doubling injury rates every year from 2017 to 2022, with children and young teens experiencing the highest rates of serious crashes and hospitalizations. Despite this data, federal consumer standards for e-bikes have remained largely unchanged since 2002, lacking clear e-bike class distinctions and disclosures on product information and crash data. Together, this results in a flooded market with minimal oversight, creating enormous public safety risks.

The Safe SPEEDS Act Would:

Direct the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to develop a final consumer product safety standard defining clear and consistent classifications, labeling requirements, and minimum age recommendations for e-bikes, e-motos, and other off-road electric products.

Require the CPSC to conduct and publish periodic studies on crashes, injuries, and fatalities associated with e-bikes and e-motos disaggregated by class.

Establish a grant program and training module to help local governments, law enforcement agencies, and EMS standardize crash incident reporting, enhance data collection, and conduct public education on safety risks from e-bikes and e-motos.

This bill is endorsed by PeopleForBikes, League of American Bicyclists, National Bicycle Dealers Association, Consumer Reports, Safe Routes Partnership, International Association of Chiefs of Police, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, and Rails-to-Trails Conservancy.

"PeopleForBikes is pleased to enthusiastically endorse the Safe SPEEDS Act, which will direct the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to gather and analyze data about incidents involving the many e-mobility products under its jurisdiction," said Jenn Dice, president and CEO of PeopleForBikes. "The bill also directs the CPSC to adopt clear classification, age guidelines and labeling requirements for these devices, including consideration of the three recognized classes of low-speed electric bicycles. This legislation marks an important step towards understanding and mitigating the hazards posed by e-motos: higher speed electric motorized vehicles that are sold as electric dirt bikes, but often end up being inappropriately used on public roads by young riders."

"The League of American Bicyclists celebrates biking in all of the diverse forms it takes and e-bikes have become a common and essential type of bike for many people,” said Ken McLeod, Policy Director of League of American Bicyclists. “While states have been active in defining e-bike classes that allow responsible regulation, the federal government has not yet stepped up in its role as a regulator to define what is an e-bike, and what is not, based on speed and motor capacity. The Safe SPEEDS Act would direct the Consumer Product Safety Commission to conduct research, propose national e-bike classes, and help communities integrate those classes into their traffic safety efforts. The League applauds Representative David Min for introducing this bill and we are optimistic its passage would help states implement responsible regulation for this growing and transformative mobility option, and reduce confusion for consumers, law enforcement, and emergency responders around e-bike safety."

“The NBDA strongly supports Congressman Dave Min’s leadership on this critical e-bike safety legislation,” said Heather Mason, Executive Director of National Bicycle Dealers Association. “Establishing a clear, uniform federal standard for the classification and labeling of low-speed electric bicycles is long overdue and essential for protecting consumers, retailers, and the broader public. Specialty Bicycle Retailers see firsthand how confusion around e-bike classes, speed capabilities, and intended use can create real safety risks. This bill brings much-needed clarity by reinforcing consistent definitions, permanent labeling, and evidence-based recommendations grounded in data and stakeholder input. We appreciate Congressman Min’s thoughtful approach, one that balances innovation, consumer access, and safety, while supporting responsible manufacturers and retailers who are committed to compliance and education. This legislation represents an important step toward safer streets, better-informed riders, and a more accountable electric bicycle marketplace.”

"We’re seeing an e-bike crisis unfold across the state, and frankly, we need much stronger laws to fix it,” said Larry Agran, Mayor of the City of Irvine. “We have to protect our pedestrians and riders—young and old alike—from the real dangers out there. This legislation is a common-sense move to establish clear safety standards so families can make better choices. Irvine is proud to back this effort, and we thank Representative Min for leading the charge on e-bike safety for our state and the country."

“The Safe SPEEDS Act will bring much needed clarity and consistency to the e-bike marketplace, a growing safety concern for families across the country,” said Mary Sackett, District 1 Supervisor of the Marin County Board of Supervisors. “Federal consumer product safety standards for e-bikes and e-motos are currently nonexistent, resulting in confusion and the inadvertent purchasing of e-motos for young riders. Funding for EMS data collection will also help other jurisdictions understand -- like Marin has -- the real safety risk that e-bikes pose. Marin County is proud to be a national leader in youth e-bike safety, and our experience shows how urgently this federal leadership is needed."

The full text of the bill can be found here.

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Protecting America’s Working Dogs (PAW) Act Reintroduced to Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, on National K-9 Veterans Day, Representative John James (MI-10) announced the reintroduction of the Protecting America’s Working Dogs (PAW) Act. Rep. James had previously introduced the PAW Act in the 118th Congress.

Currently, federal guidelines are murky for the fate of federal (Department of Defense, Border Patrol, Capitol Police, etc.) working dogs after they are retired. Oftentimes the retired working dog’s former handler is left to foot the veterinarian costs. The medical treatment required by many former working dogs is significant enough that it creates a hardship for the individuals, often former partners, who take in these canine heroes and become responsible for their medical costs.

Specifically, the PAW Act would require the Attorney General to establish a grant program to go to eligible nonprofit organizations that assist with the medical expenses of retired working dogs or service dogs.

Rep. James issued the following statement following the introduction of the PAW Act:

“Our federal working dogs and their handlers are heroes who deserve to be taken care of after they retire. As a veteran who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, I know these dogs save an immeasurable number of lives each and every day. The dogs and their handlers risk their own lives to keep Americans out of harm’s way. Unfortunately, current regulations result in the handlers (who are often veterans or law enforcement officers themselves) becoming solely responsible for the medical costs of the retired K-9. The PAW Act will offer a critical helping hand to our heroes, both K-9 and human.”

"America’s working dogs serve with extraordinary courage and loyalty, often placing themselves in harm’s way to protect our troops and our communities,” said Kristen Maurer, President of Mission K-9 Rescue. “When their service ends, the responsibility for their medical care should not fall solely on the shoulders of the handlers and families who welcome them home. The Protecting America’s Working Dogs Act ensures that these canine heroes receive the medical care they deserve in retirement."

"We owe a tremendous amount of gratitude to the work our heroes do - both 4-legged and 2-legged,” said Carol Borden, founder and CEO of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs. "These dogs are credited with saving innumerable lives. Many become sick or injured in the line of duty usually while saving a human. The least we can do is honor them by assisting with their health needs."

The bill is endorsed by Mission K-9 Rescue and Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs.

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Congressman Kennedy Invites High School Students to Submit Artwork for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition

Winning Artwork Will be Displayed in the Halls of the U.S. Capitol for Visitors From Around the World to View

BUFFALO, N.Y. - Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) is inviting local high school students to enter the annual Congressional Art Competition. This nationwide competition celebrates the importance of the arts and art education in our schools by showcasing the work of our country’s most talented young people. Since its inception in 1982, over 650,000 high school students have participated in the Congressional Art Competition.

This year’s theme is: “Western New York: A Place for All of Us.” Artwork should capture the artist's appreciation for the people who make Western New York a great place to live.

“Western New York is home to many talented students, and this is a great opportunity for our young artists to have their work recognized at home and across the nation,” said Congressman Kennedy. “I’m excited to see the creativity of young Western New Yorkers on display, and to highlight their passion for art and community.”

The grand prize-winning piece will be sent to Washington, D.C., to be displayed in the U.S. Capitol building. The winning student and a guest will also receive complimentary airline tickets from Southwest Airlines to attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony with other talented high school artists from across the country at the end of June.

Interested students must submit their original artwork before 5 PM EST on Friday, April 24, 2026. Art pieces can be delivered to Congressman Kennedy’s office at 726 Exchange Street, Suite 601, Buffalo, New York. Each submission must also be accompanied by a completed release form.

Artwork must be framed and should be no larger than 26 inches high, 26 inches wide, 4 inches deep, and no heavier than 15 pounds. Accepted media for the two-dimensional artwork include:

Paintings: oil, acrylics, watercolor, etc.

Drawings: colored pencil, pencil, ink, marker, pastels, charcoal

Collages: must be two-dimensional

Prints: lithographs, silkscreen, block prints

Mixed Media: use of more than two mediums such as pencil, ink, watercolor, etc.

Computer-generated art (AI-generated art is not permitted.)

Photographs


Catch Up with Kim -- March 13, 2026 -- Letter from the Congresswoman
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Catching Up with Local Entrepreneur Kyle Hocog

It was great having Kyle Hocog stop by the office this week to catch up and talk about life in the CNMI as a young professional and small business owner. Kyle is the owner of Next Level Media and has been a strong contributor to our community through his work and creativity. I appreciated the chance to hear his perspective and talk about the opportunities and challenges facing the next generation of professionals in our islands. Thanks for stopping by Kyle.


Checking in with Isla Community Health Center

I had the chance to catch up this week with the team from Isla Community Health Center as CEO Cindy Hoepner and Board Chair Matt Gregory stopped by the office. We talked about the important role the center plays as the CNMI’s only Federally Qualified Health Center and the work they continue to do to provide care for our community. I was also glad to confirm that Isla will be maintaining both its federal funding and the services it provides across the islands. Thank you to Cindy, Matt, and the entire team for the work you do for our people.


Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation Visit

This week Saipan residents, Heather Pangelinan, Maxine Pangelinan as well as Richard Sablan and Tony Yarobwemal, from the Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation visited my D.C. office. After visiting the office they were taken on a staff led tour of the historic rooms of the Capitol. Thanks for visiting and come again soon!


Enlightening Visit to Power Plant 1

I had the tremendous opportunity to tour Saipan Power Plant No. 1 with the Commonwealth Utilities Corporation on Monday to see up close the state of their energy generation infrastructure. I greatly appreciated the CUC engineering team educating me about the challenges they have been facing and the needs they have. The mechanics, repairmen, and engineers of CUC are truly the unsung heroes of our islands, and I am committed to finding solutions to our energy infrastructure difficulties while I’m in DC.


Honoring our History and our Ties in Marpi

I began my week back home by attending a solemn ceremony in Marpi organized by representatives of the Government of Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare and the Japan Association for Recovery and Repatriation of War Casualties. The ceremony marked the cremation of Japanese war dead recently recovered through the ongoing efforts to locate and repatriate the remains of those lost during the Battle of Saipan. Events like this serve as a reminder of the deep history our islands still hold and the many lives lost during the war. I was grateful for the opportunity to pay my respects and to witness the care and dignity with which these recovery efforts are carried out.


IndoPacom Acknowledges CNMI Economic Concerns

Earlier this year, I joined Governor Apatang and legislative leaders in sending a letter to Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, outlining the accelerating economic challenges facing the CNMI and the risks those challenges pose to the civilian systems that support America’s presence in the region. This week we received Admiral Paparo’s response. In his letter, the Admiral recognized the strategic importance of the CNMI and acknowledged that the strength of our civilian community is closely tied to the U.S.’s ability to operate effectively in the Indo-Pacific. He also shared that his staff has been directed to review the federal actions we raised and that he will convey the importance of these issues to other federal agencies. I sincerely appreciate his attention to these concerns and look forward to continuing this conversation with our federal partners to ensure that the challenges facing our islands are fully understood.


Meeting with CHCC on Healthcare System Needs

Our conversations on healthcare this week wrapped up with a productive meeting with Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation CEO Esther Muna and Chief Operations Officer Halina Palacios. CEO Muna also delivered an informative presentation during the Economic Summit highlighting the vital role the hospital plays in our islands’ economy, both as one of the largest single employers, but also in promoting our community’s wellbeing. In our meeting, we discussed the current needs within the CNMI’s healthcare system and the realities the hospital is facing on the ground. Hearing these perspectives directly is invaluable as we work to share solutions with Congress and federal partners. Thank you CEO Muna and Halina for taking the time to meet and for the thoughtful discussion on federal policy, local initiatives, regional cooperation and the ideas that can help move our system forward.


Meeting with DCCA Leadership on Social Services and Community Programs

We welcomed leaders from the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs to the office this week to talk about the wide range of services and programs the department provides across our islands. DCCA plays a vital role in our government, supporting programs that serve our people from early childhood through their golden years. Because many of the CNMI’s most important social services are housed within DCCA, their work depends heavily on coordination with federal programs. In times when local government resources are stretched, strong communication with federal partners becomes even more important. During our discussion we talked about the work of the Division of Youth Services, the Nutrition Assistance Program, and the Manamko Center, and how we can strengthen the network of care that supports our community. Thank you to Office on Aging Director Walter Manglona, DYS Director Vivian Sablan, NAP Administrator Margarita Torres-Aldan, and DCCA Secretary Frank Rabauliman for the thoughtful conversation and for the work you do for our islands.


Meeting with Uraali Refaluwasch Association on Offshore Development

Members of the Uraali Refaluwasch Association visited the office this week to share their perspectives on the ongoing discussions surrounding potential deep-sea mineral development in the waters near the CNMI. Our conversation focused on the ways we can ensure that the voices of the Commonwealth’s people are heard as federal agencies consider future offshore policy. A key theme raised during the discussion was the importance of consultation and fairness if offshore development were ever to move forward under federal authority. The group emphasized that the CNMI should not be excluded from discussions about environmental protections, cultural considerations, or potential benefit-sharing mechanisms connected to any emerging “blue economy” initiatives in our region. I appreciated the opportunity to listen and to hear the perspectives of community leaders on this important issue. As these conversations continue, it is essential that the people of the Commonwealth remain informed, engaged, and represented in decisions that affect our surrounding waters and the future of our islands.


Protecting Kids with the CAR SEAT Act

I’m proud to be an original cosponsor, alongside Congresswoman Laura Gillen (D-New York) and Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (R-Pennsylvania), of H.R. 7679, the Child Automobile Restraint Safety Education and Training (CAR SEAT) Act. The CAR SEAT Act directs the U.S. Department of Transportation to launch a national education campaign on the dangers of counterfeit and noncompliant child car seats and booster seats. The bill also allows states and territories to use federal highway safety funds to help educate families about how to identify safe, federally compliant products. For families in the CNMI where many essential items are purchased online or imported, having reliable information about safe car seats is especially important. I’m also proud that this effort has earned the support of multiple national consumer and safety organizations working to protect children on the road, and has received national media attention, helping bring greater awareness to the risks posed by counterfeit car seats and the importance of making sure every child is properly protected.


Speaking on the CNMI Economy at the Saipan Chamber Economic Summit

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Our community is facing real economic hardship today, and much of it traces back to the condition of our economy. When the Saipan Chamber of Commerce invited me to participate in this year’s Economic Summit, I saw it as an important opportunity to speak directly about where we are, what is standing in our way, and how we can move forward. I joined a strong panel discussion on tourism and later delivered the closing remarks for the summit. In those remarks, I focused on the facts of our current situation, and the role federal policies are playing in slowing our recovery. Many of the actions you have seen from your elected leaders in recent months are aimed at clearing those barriers and aligning federal policy with the needs of our islands and you deserve to understand why. As we approach the 50th anniversary of the Covenant, it is important to remember that the rights it provides to us are only meaningful if we are willing to fight for them. Understanding the challenges we face and speaking with a clear message about how federal policy can better represent our needs is not something we should shy away from. It is our responsibility as leaders and as Americans.


Touching Base with the Northern Marianas Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence

I appreciated the opportunity to sit down with Maisie Tenorio of the Northern Marianas Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence this week. We talked about the Coalition’s ongoing work and the broader community effort to address domestic and sexual violence in the CNMI. Our discussion included preparations related to the Violence Against Women Act and funding from the Office of Family Violence Prevention and Services that helps sustain these critical programs. We also spoke about the many ways our community can continue to support survivors, both through major initiatives and the everyday actions that help people feel seen and supported. Even when I am not always home, I want to make sure I, both professionally and personally, am doing what I can to assist these efforts and strengthen the resources available to those who need them most.


Virginia Tech Research Highlights Tinian’s Donne’ Sali

We are excited to see our beloved CNMI hot pepper, the donne’ sali, recently featured in an article highlighting new research from Virginia Tech. The study explores how these peppers, a staple across the Marianas and especially familiar to those of us from Tinian, may be shaped by their unique relationship with island birds. The name donne’ sali itself reflects this connection. In Chamorro, “donne’” means pepper, and “sali” refers to the paluman sali, a native island bird known for feeding on the bright red peppers and helping spread their seeds across the islands. Researchers are now studying how this relationship between birds and peppers may influence the pepper’s color and signature heat. For those of us who grew up on Tinian, the donne’ sali is a part of our culture, our cuisine, and our island identity. It’s great to see this small but mighty pepper receiving international attention and reminding the world of the unique natural heritage of the CNMI!

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Visit to Medicaid Highlights the Importance of the Program

Healthcare was an important focus during my time back home this week, including a visit with the CNMI Medicaid Office and a tour of their new offices in the Horiguchi Building in Garapan. I had the chance to meet members of their growing staff while several new hires were going through onboarding, and it was encouraging to see the team expanding to support our islands’ access to healthcare services. Director George Cruz and his team also walked me through the direction of the program, what resources it needs, and how these positions will strengthen services for Medicaid beneficiaries in our community. One figure that stood out was their estimate that roughly 56% of our population, based on the 2020 Census, are Medicaid beneficiaries. That underscores just how important this program is for our islands and why our work to expand opportunity and stability here at home remains so critical for our community.


Welcoming the Pritchards to the Nation’s Capital

On Thursday, we welcomed constituents from the CNMI and Arizona to the District of Columbia! Our team had the opportunity to host Kimberly Concepcion-Pritchard, Cole D. Pritchard, Noa C. Pritchard, Cambridge Chapman, and Claudia Pritchard, for a tour of the U.S. Capitol and to share a bit about the work we do in Congress on behalf of the CNMI. During their visit, they also explored several of our nation’s historic landmarks, including the White House, the Library of Congress, and the FBI Headquarters. It’s always special to welcome members of our island community to our nation’s capital and help them experience these important institutions firsthand.


Welcoming WestCare Pacific’s Work in the CNMI

It is always encouraging to see members of our community come together around a shared purpose. I had the chance this week to meet with members of the CNMI effort to introduce the work of WestCare Pacific and to learn more about their goals for expanding services in our islands. WestCare Pacific is part of the WestCare Foundation, a national nonprofit organization that began in 1973 and now operates across numerous states and territories, including Guam, Palau, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Their work has long focused on prevention, treatment, and recovery services for individuals and families facing substance use challenges. During our conversation, we discussed the need for these kinds of services in the CNMI and ways my office may be able to assist as the organization explores opportunities to serve our community. Thank you to WestCare Pacific Community Advisory Council members Kimberly Camacho, Tiffany Crisostimo, and Dr. Lawrence Camacho for sharing your plans and for the work you are doing to bring these resources to our islands.


Larson Announces $350,000 in New Federal Funding to Grow Connecticut’s Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Industry and Invest in American-Made, Affordable Clean Energy

Windsor, CT – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) announced $350,000 in new federal funding for CONNSTEP at Infinity Fuel Cell and Hydrogen, Inc. in Windsor, to strengthen the competitiveness of Connecticut’s small and medium-sized manufacturers and grow the state’s hydrogen and fuel cell energy industry.

View the full press conference here.

“As a founding member and co-chair of the House Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Caucus, I have been proud to work for years to support the continued advancement of clean hydrogen energy right here in Connecticut,” said Larson. “Even in the face of federal funding cuts, I'm proud to work with our local partners like CONNSTEP to support Connecticut manufacturers, like Infinity Fuel Cell, and to ensure our state remains a national and global clean energy leader. I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress to extend tax credits that support this growing industry and bring home critical funding to develop and deploy American-made clean energy in our communities.”

“This $350,000 federal investment for CONNSTEP will strengthen the Connecticut Hydrogen Fuel Cell Consortium’s work to advance innovation of clean energy and expand opportunities for manufacturers critical to our national defense and economic security. I’m proud to support initiatives such as this that empower Connecticut businesses to develop cutting-edge solutions to the climate and energy crisis while creating good jobs,” said Senator Blumenthal.

The funding for CONNSTEP will invest directly in manufacturers across the State of Connecticut who are already working to produce fuel cells and make hydrogen energy more affordable.

“Congressman Larson has long been a champion for Connecticut’s manufacturing community, and we are deeply grateful for his leadership in securing this important investment,” said Beatriz N. Gutierrez, President and CEO of CONNSTEP. “For more than 25 years, CONNSTEP has worked alongside small and medium-sized manufacturers to help them grow and remain competitive. This funding will help strengthen the manufacturers that power our state’s advanced manufacturing and energy supply chains.”

“Congressman Larson and the rest of the delegation have been extremely supportive of Infinity’s development of new fuel cell power systems for space and underwater missions. These are markets that are historically important to Connecticut, and our work continues to serve them and create jobs,” said Infinity Fuel Cell and Hydrogen, Inc. President & CEO William Smith.


Lofgren, Davidson, Wyden, and Lee Introduce Bipartisan FISA Reform Bill to  Protect Americans’ Constitutional Rights

“Now more than ever, unchecked government access to Americans’ personal information threatens their privacy, their civil liberties, and our democracy,” Rep. Lofgren said. “Congress should not reauthorize broad domestic surveillance authorities without putting meaningful safeguards in place. The bipartisan, bicameral Government Surveillance Reform Act offers a comprehensive and balanced solution that would prevent abuse of Americans' personal information while preserving essential national security tools that keep our country safe.”

“FISA Section 702 has been stretched far beyond its original purpose and now enables unconstitutional warrantless searches of American citizens and their private communications,” Rep. Davidson said. “The bipartisan Government Surveillance Reform Act counters these abuses by requiring a warrant to search Americans’ data and by closing the data broker loophole that allows the federal government to spy on citizens by purchasing private data that would otherwise require a warrant or subpoena.”

“Advances in technology, from AI to the explosion of Americans’ data available for purchase, have far outpaced the laws protecting Americans’ privacy and civil liberties,” Sen. Wyden said. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill as a leader of the Ben Franklin caucus, which stands for the proposition that liberty and security aren’t mutually exclusive.”

“It is imperative that Congress enact real reforms to protect our civil liberties, including warrant requirements and statutory penalties for privacy violations, in exchange for reauthorizing Section 702,” Sen. Lee said. “Our bipartisan Government Surveillance Reform Act stops illegal government spying and restores the Constitutional rights of all Americans.”

“If we are serious about protecting our constitutional freedoms against government overreach, a judicially-approved warrant should be required for all section 702 searches,” said Sen. Lummis. “This legislation goes a long way to restoring our Fourth Amendment rights and curbing the inexcusable intelligence agency excesses of the last two decades.”

James Czerniawski, Head of Emerging Technology Policy at Consumer Choice Center: “For years, the U.S. intelligence community has repeatedly misused its authorities under FISA, including Section 702, as well as other surveillance powers, undermining public trust and raising concerns across the political spectrum. Protecting constitutional rights and protecting national security are not opposing goals. We applaud the reintroduction of the Government Surveillance Reform Act, a bipartisan path forward that brings back a comprehensive package of reforms. This package responsibly reins in warrantless surveillance while preserving the tools needed to keep Americans safe. We commend Senators Wyden and Lee, along with Representatives Davidson and Lofgren, for once again leading this cross‑party effort to advance essential, rights‑protecting reforms.”

John C. Yang, President and Executive Director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice: “Reform of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act is long overdue. The federal government has used this provision to engage in mass warrantless surveillance and collection of Americans' international phone calls, emails, text messages, and other communications with little oversight or accountability. Asian Americans often encounter disproportionate amounts of scrutiny framed as ‘national security’. The Government Surveillance Reform Act of 2026 is a critical step in regulating the collection of Americans’ most sensitive and private information.”

Jason Pye, Vice President of the Due Process Institute: “The Government Surveillance Reform Act is an important step toward restoring the balance between national security and the civil liberties the Constitution was designed to protect. For too long, federal surveillance authorities have created opportunities for the warrantless collection and misuse of Americans’ communications. Few would argue that surveillance authorities are required to protect the United States from foreign threats, but we have to recognize that Americans expect that their fundamental civil liberties will be protected. Congress has routinely failed to do so, including the most recent reauthorization, which actually expanded surveillance. The reforms included in GSRA are responsible and necessary to ensure that intelligence tools aimed at foreign threats are not used to sidestep the Fourth Amendment rights of Americans.”

Hajar Hammado, Senior Policy Advisor at Demand Progress: “The federal government should not have the ability to bypass courts and obtain the private emails, texts and calls of Americans, especially when they are purchased from shady data brokers who sell our private information to anyone willing to pay. The Government Surveillance Reform Act protects Americans’ privacy by finally closing the backdoor search loophole and closing the door on data brokers. Protecting Americans’ privacy and civil liberties from these threats cannot wait, Congress must implement these reforms ahead of the April 20 expiration date. We thank Sens. Wyden and Lee, and Reps. Davidson and Lofgren for their steadfast leadership and we urge all members of Congress to enact critically needed privacy protections before renewing the government’s spying authority.”

Alex Marthews, National Chair at Restore the Fourth: “The Government Surveillance Reform Act contains critical reforms to protect U. S. persons from unreasonable and warrantless government surveillance. It would rein in AI-driven misuse of NSA classified databases to spy on U. S. persons without probable cause or a warrant; it would make much less likely that Americans would be harassed or prosecuted on the basis of poor-quality data held on them by data brokers; and it would make it easier for people unfairly surveilled to get redress from the courts. We warmly encourage the Judiciary Committees in the House and the Senate to mark up a bill that takes the best parts of this bill, Senator Lee's and Senator Durbin's SAFE Act and Rep. Biggs' Protect Liberty Act, before the sunset of these authorities in April.”

Bob Goodlatte, former Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee and Senior Policy Advisor to the Project for Privacy and Surveillance Accountability: “PPSA commends Sen. Ron Wyden, Sen. Mike Lee, Rep. Warren Davidson, and Rep. Zoe Lofgren for reintroducing the Government Surveillance Reform Act (GSRA) – a comprehensive surveillance reform bill that balances national security with Americans’ constitutional and privacy rights. This balanced and comprehensive bill enjoys bipartisan and bicameral support because Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle are alarmed by the abusive and pervasive surveillance of the American people by their own government. This well-crafted legislation should be included in the reauthorization of FISA Section 702 in April.”

Sumayyah Waheed, Senior Policy Counsel at Muslim Advocates: “As the federal government seeks to capture ever more intimate data and biometrics on every person in America, we must pass new laws to protect our privacy. The Government Surveillance Reform Act is a critical measure to reclaim our data and reaffirm the Fourth Amendment’s protections against mass government surveillance, which chills dissent and enables abuse. We thank Senators Wyden and Lee, and Representatives Davidson and Lofgren, for their leadership on this bill.”

Jeramie D. Scott, Senior Counsel and Director of the EPIC Surveillance Oversight Program: “The Government Surveillance Reform Act includes critical protections for our privacy and our data in an increasingly vulnerable digital world. As technology advances, so too must our laws to ensure that we secure the values enshrined in our Constitution. Our spy agencies should not turn warrantless surveillance systems inward to invade Americans’ communications, and they shouldn’t sidestep the Fourth Amendment by purchasing our sensitive information from data brokers. Our values and our Constitution demand our privacy and civil liberties be protected and EPIC is proud to support a bill that does just that.”


Rep. Loudermilk’s Week In Review

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Rep. Nancy Mace Thanks El Al, U.S. State Department And U.S. Embassy Jerusalem For Historic Deal To Evacuate Stranded Americans

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Mar. 13, 2026) - Congresswoman Nancy Mace (SC-01) today praised the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem and the State Department for securing a historic agreement with El Al Airlines to provide nonstop return flights to the United States for Americans departing Israel beginning March 16.

The announcement follows Congresswoman Mace’s very public and urgent calls for the U.S. government to deploy planes to evacuate stranded Americans from the region. Rep. Mace had been requesting transatlantic flights from the U.S. government since Monday, March 9th. She went public with this request when no additional dedicated planes were committed to evacuation efforts, on March 12th.

Congresswoman Mace spent the past week on the ground in the Middle East, without sleep, assisting with the coordination of the evacuation of hundreds of American citizens from an active war zone alongside Grey Bull Rescue. She met with foreign leaders, Embassy personnel, U.S. Ambassadors and many foreign officials, who had tentatively agreed to assist with additional evacuations using their aircraft. She departed Israel on a rescue flight filled with Americans.

Congresswoman Mace worked directly with the State Department to secure an aircraft for evacuees managed by Grey Bull Rescue, a specialized crisis response organization, ran the ground operation, locating stranded Americans, coordinating logistics, and making sure no American was left behind. Together, they got it done.

"I begged privately for planes. I begged publicly for planes. We said it loud and we said it clear: get our American citizens out of a warzone,” said Congresswoman Mace. “Today's announcement proves pressure works, but we weren't willing to wait. We got on a plane, worked the phones, sat across from government officials and foreign leaders, and didn't stop until Americans were boarding flights home. This is what our job is all about."

Under the new El Al agreement, U.S. citizens, including those who already hold El Al tickets and those who wish to purchase new ones, will be able to travel on nonstop flights to the United States outside of the standard passenger caps currently in effect. Americans seeking to depart are asked to register via the El Al form available through the U.S. Embassy Jerusalem's bio link which can also be found HERE.

"When Americans needed their government to show up, we showed up. Now they're coming home,” Mace continued.

See Congresswoman Mace’s calls for action here:

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Mast holds freeze recovery meeting for local farmers

Hobe Sound, F.L. – U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (FL-21) held a Farmer’s Freeze Recovery Meeting in Hobe Sound, where he spoke with farmers across Florida’s 21st District on the issues they continue to face from February’s record-breaking temperatures, and provided guidance on federal resources and recovery assistance. The meeting followed a winter of unseasonably cold temperatures, harsh winds, and frost that devastated crops across the state.

“From citrus trees and vegetables to shrubs and nursery crops, our growers dedicate years toward cultivating produce. When their labor is erased—in some cases overnight—it impacts everyone,” said Rep. Mast.

In Washington last week, after calls from Florida’s delegation in Congress, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins issued a disaster declaration for 26 counties in Florida. That declaration included St. Lucie, Martin, and Palm Beach Counties, and it was a key step that allowed affected growers access to federal recovery programs.

In addition, Mast cosponsored the Temperature Event Mitigation Policy (TEMP) Act last week to address a gap in insurance coverage for farmers facing cold-related hardship. The TEMP Act would direct the U.S.D.A’s Risk Management Agency to establish a temperature-based insurance program.


McGovern Statement on the Passing of Paki Wieland

WASHINGTON—Today, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) released this statement following the passing of renowned peace activist Paki Wieland:

Paki was an incredible leader. She was a peacemaker in our community, and a fierce advocate for human rights and human dignity at home and around the world.

Paki and I bonded after we learned that each of us had been arrested—multiple times—for civil disobedience. I often turned to her for advice and guidance—strategizing and working together on how to eliminate nuclear weapons, stand up to defense contractors, and fight back against those who seek war and destruction. Occasionally, we disagreed. But in our disagreement, there was genuine admiration. I saw in Paki someone who loved and cared so deeply, and whose passion and energy could ignite and inspire others to action.

Paki was always willing to stand up for a neighbor in need—and the whole world was her neighborhood. She never stopped speaking out, never stopped organizing, and never stopped challenging the rest of us to live up to our values. I so admired her tenacity and her deep, deep desire to bring peace and love into this world.

I pray that her family finds comfort and inspiration in her memory. Paki touched so many lives, and her spirit and legacy will live on in all of us who will continue fighting on her behalf for a more just, compassionate, peaceful future for all.

The world will miss Paki. I already do.


THOMPSON, SCHIFF, VALADAO LEAD CALL FOR USDA ASSISTANCE FOR PEACH FARMERS

Yuba-Sutter Region, California – Today, Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA-04), Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Rep. David Valadao (R-CA-22) led a bipartisan group of 38 colleagues to request Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins issue assistance to peach farmers in Yuba and Sutter Counties. Following the closure of Del Monte processing facility in Modesto, countless peach growers in the region are facing widespread contract cancellations and lack a viable path to mitigate their losses.

“The Del Monte facility processed a substantial share of the state’s canned fruit production, including more than 30 percent of California peaches. With no comparable alternative processing capacity available, producers are facing severe uncertainty and financial hardship,” wrote the lawmakers. “Our domestic producers already face a multitude of challenges, and it is critical that we use available federal resources to preserve these farmers’ ability to produce healthy, fresh food for Americans. We respectfully request that USDA utilize its authorities to stabilize affected producers and communities.”

The lawmakers requested the following actions:

USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service provide $9 million to help growers transition to another permanent crop.

USDA’s existing disaster and market disruption programs (e.g., Farm Service Agency’s Tree Assistance Program) be made maximally accessible to impacted growers.

Technical assistance and economic development support be provided to affected communities.

In addition to Thompson, Schiff, and Valadao, the letter was also signed by Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.-11), and Representatives Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.-33), Nanette Barragán (D-Calif.-44), Julia Brownley (D-Calif.-26), Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.-24), Judy Chu (D-Calif.-28), Gil Cisneros (D-Calif.-31), Lou Correa (D-Calif.-46), Jim Costa (D-Calif.-21), Mark DeSaulnier (D-Calif.-10), Vince Fong (R-Calif.-20), Laura Friedman (D-Calif.-30), John Garamendi (D-Calif.-08), Robert Garcia (D-Calif.-42), Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.-34), Adam Gray (D-Calif.-13), Josh Harder (D-Calif.-09), Jared Huffman (D-Calif.-02), Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.-51), Ro Khanna (D-Calif.-17), Young Kim (R-Calif.-40), Mike Levin (D-Calif.-49), Sam Liccardo (D-Calif.-16), Ted Lieu (D-Calif.-36), Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.-18), Doris Matsui (D-Calif.-07), Dave Min (D-Calif.-47), Kevin Mullin (D-Calif.-15), Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.-23), Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.-19), Scott Peters (D-Calif.-50), Luz Rivas (D-Calif.-29), Lateefah Simon (D-Calif.-12), Brad Sherman (D-Calif.-32), Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.-14), Mark Takano (D-Calif.-39), Derek Tran (D-Calif.-45), and George Whitesides (D-Calif.-27).

Full text of the letter can be found here and below:

The Honorable Brooke Rollins

Secretary

U.S. Department of Agriculture

1400 Independence Ave., S.W.

Washington, D.C. 20250

Dear Secretary Rollins,

We write to request the immediate assistance of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in relation to the Del Monte processing facility closure in Modesto, California. As a result of this closure, countless peach growers are facing widespread contract cancellations and lack a viable avenue to mitigate their losses.

The Del Monte facility processed a substantial share of the state’s canned fruit production, including more than 30 percent of California peaches. With no comparable alternative processing capacity available, producers are facing severe uncertainty and financial hardship. These growers have long supplied the nation with nutritious and delicious fruit, and without USDA action, these growers will have nowhere to turn to maintain their livelihoods. Our domestic producers already face a multitude of challenges, and it is critical that we use available federal resources to preserve these farmers’ ability to produce healthy, fresh food for Americans.

We respectfully request that USDA utilize its authorities to stabilize affected producers and communities. More specifically, we request that USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service provide $9 million to help growers transition to another permanent crop, that the Department’s existing disaster and market disruption programs (e.g., Farm Service Agency’s Tree Assistance Program) be made maximally accessible to impacted growers, and that technical assistance and economic development support be provided to affected communities.

Many impacted growers are multi-generational family farmers who have invested decades in orchards built around stable processor relationships. These operations anchor local employment and regional economies. Without a proper response, there is a risk of long-term structured damage to our nation’s agricultural base.

We look forward to working closely with USDA to swiftly identify and implement practical solutions. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.


Congressman Griffith’s Weekly E-Newsletter 3.13.26

One agenda item for Republicans in 2026 is to make life more affordable.

We recognize that high prices on everything from groceries to gas make it harder to purchase a home, raise a family and send your kids to school.

These rises in the costs of living were fueled in large part by the high levels of inflation we saw during the Biden-Harris years.

Under President Biden, inflation was rampant, at one point hitting 9.1%. This was the highest inflation rate since the President Carter years.

According to FactCheck.org, consumer prices rose 21.5%, gasoline rose 31% and home prices rose 37.4% under Biden-Harris.

Meanwhile, private sector growth took a hit as real wages adjusted for inflation fell.

As a result, and to the frustration of many, Americans are paying more for everything.

Given the Biden-Harris economic setbacks, President Trump and Republicans in Congress are working to reverse these Biden-Harris inflationary pressures, tame the cost-of-living crisis and provide more affordability for Americans.

One area of my focus as Health Subcommittee Chairman is to lower the costs of health care.

There are many root causes to the increases in health care costs. Some trace back to before Biden-Harris.

One reason patients see rises in health care costs, which are outpacing inflation, is due to President Obama’s signature health care policy, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare.

Obama pledged at the time, "I will sign a universal health care bill into law by the end of my first term as president that will cover every American and cut the cost of a typical family's premium by up to $2,500 a year."

PolitiFact found this to be a broken campaign promise.

In fact, as you all know, insurance rates have continued to climb and outpace general inflation as measured by the consumer price index.

Further, Obamacare spurred consolidation in the health care marketplace, gutting competition.

In a recent Health Subcommittee hearing with health insurance company leaders, I detailed the impacts of dwindling competition and low transparency on patients in Virginia’s Ninth District.

When it comes to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, a 2017 study by the Kaiser Family Foundation reported on U.S. communities at risk of having no insurers on the marketplace. Virginia had the most number of counties at risk! Fortunately, at this time, every Virginia Ninth District locality does have at least one provider.

This is further proof that Obamacare ACA plans have weakened competition, thereby failing to deliver the lower health care costs that were promised to American patients when Obamacare was signed into law in 2010.

During the hearing, I made the case that we need to strive to have more competitive insurance plan options that reward quality and focus on affordability, access and outcomes.

Additionally, the big insurance companies own a large share of the health care marketplace. In fact, their networks either own or exert control over pharmacies and Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs).

With such a large share of the marketplace, these big insurance companies wield enough power to influence the cost of health care, raising your costs.

In a separate hearing, my Subcommittee brought in PBMs and others involved in the prescription drug supply chain.

The predatory practices of some PBMs appear to be partially responsible for the increases in prescription drug costs.

Some of these PBM behaviors hopefully will be reined in thanks to recently passed legislation and a settlement between the Federal Trade Commission and a major PBM. These developments will encourage greater transparency with the hopes of lowering costs.

During the drug supply hearing, one of the issues I raised was that the three largest PBMs control roughly 80% of the pharmaceutical marketplace! All three are owned by insurance companies.

This anti-competitive structure limits the ability of pharmaceutical manufacturers and pharmacies to deliver more affordable drugs to patients.

There also seemed to be agreement across industries and political party lines that more competition and more choices helps improve health care affordability, and a consolidation of the marketplace does just the opposite!

As I lead the Health Subcommittee forward to address health care affordability, I will continue to advocate for more competition and more transparency in American health care.

I believe these reforms will fix some of the failures in our health care system and ultimately lower health care costs.

To make life more affordable for American patients, change to the health care status quo is needed. I am fighting in Congress to make these changes possible.

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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Moskowitz Announces $20,000 National Endowment for the Arts Grant for Broward Center for the Performing Arts

Today, Congressman Jared Moskowitz (D-FL-23) announced that the Performing Arts Center Authority in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has been awarded a $20,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) as part of its FY 2026 Grants for Arts Projects program.

The funding will help support education and community engagement activities across Broward County. Planned programming, which this funding will support, may include a jazz workshop for public school students focused on music appreciation and performance skills, as well as free tickets and sound-check access for aspiring student jazz musicians.

“South Florida’s arts community is one of the many things that makes our region so special, and this investment in the Broward Center is an investment in both culture and opportunity,” said Congressman Jared Moskowitz. “This funding will help give local students meaningful access to arts education and live performance. I’m proud to announce this support for the Broward Center and the next generation of young artists in our community.”

The project is intended to benefit students and audiences in Fort Lauderdale by expanding access to the arts and helping participants build knowledge and skills through live music and educational programming.


Moulton Secures $13.2 Million in Community Project Funding

SALEM, MA — Congressman Seth Moulton (MA-06) announced that he has secured $13.2 million for 14 community improvement projects in FY2026 Appropriations, which were recently signed into law.

Under guidelines issued by the House Appropriations Committee, each Representative is allowed to request funding for a limited number of community projects in their districts. Projects are restricted to specific accounts with varying eligibility.

The projects selected by Congressman Moulton this year will improve water infrastructure, address PFAS contamination, support workforce development, and invest in transportation and education.

“Washington may be broken, but I’m fighting for every dollar I can bring back to the 6th District,” said Congressman Moulton. “I proud to have secured over $14 million for projects that address real needs in our communities from aging water systems to workforce training.”

The FY26 Selected Projects Include:

Water Infrastructure

Gloucester: Pump Station Upgrades

Recipient: City of Gloucester

Funding Amount: $1,092,000

Marblehead: Sewer Infiltration and Inflow Reduction

Recipient: Town of Marblehead

Funding Amount: $807,000

Merrimac: Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades

Recipient: Town of Merrimac

Funding Amount: $1,092,000

Nahant: Wastewater Infrastructure Upgrades

Recipient: Town of Nahant

Funding Amount: $1,092,000

Newburyport: PFAS Water Filtration System

Recipient: City of Newburyport

Funding Amount: $1,092,000

Essex: Drinking Water System Improvements

Recipient: Town of Essex

Funding Amount: $1,092,000

Hamilton: Hamilton-Wenham Regional Drinking Water Connection

Recipient: Town of Hamilton

Funding Amount: $1,092,000

Ipswich: Drinking Water Infrastructure Upgrades

Recipient: Town of Ipswich

Funding Amount: $1,092,000

Middleton: PFAS Mitigation Project

Recipient: Town of Middleton

Funding Amount: $1,092,000

Topsfield: Water Main Replacement

Recipient: Town of Topsfield

Funding Amount: $1,092,000

Transportation, Education & Workforce Development

Burlington: Burlington Multi-Use Pathway

Recipient: Town of Burlington

Funding Amount: $1,000,000

Georgetown: Georgetown Middle-High School Heating and Cooling System

Recipient: Town of Georgetown

Funding Amount: $850,000

Salem: Salem State Science Labs

Recipient: Salem State University

Funding Amount: $500,000

Reading: Reading Lower Downtown Streetscape Enhancement

Recipient: Town of Reading

Funding Amount: $250,000

Additional information on the process governing CPF requests is available on the House Appropriations Committee website.


Pfluger Fly-By: March 13, 2026

Retirement from the U.S. Air Force

I officially retired as a Colonel from the United States Air Force on February 1, 2026, after nearly 26 years of service to our nation.

I graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 2000 and spent the next two decades flying F-15C and F-22 Raptor, including many combat missions in the Middle East. I had the honor of flying some of America's most advanced aircraft and the privilege of helping defend the freedoms we cherish. In 2020, I joined the Air Force Reserve and proudly served in this capacity until my retirement this year.

While my time in uniform has come to a close, my commitment to our military and national security remains as strong as ever. I will continue serving our brave men and women in uniform as one of the 17 Air Force veterans currently in Congress. I will also continue as Chairman of the U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors, where I remain focused on strengthening the Academy and helping develop the next generation of American leaders.

None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support from my wife, Camille, and our three daughters. Their love and sacrifice made my service possible, and I am immensely grateful for them every single day.

I also want to thank the people of Texas's 11th Congressional District. It is an honor to represent a community that so deeply understands the cost of service and the value of sacrifice. Thank you for trusting me to represent you in Washington. It remains one of the greatest honors of my life.

Reflecting on My Service

To reflect on my service in the U.S. Air Force, I penned an op-ed in the Washington Post this week warning that while our Air Force remains unmatched in capability, decades of underinvestment have stretched it dangerously thin at a critical geopolitical moment.

In the piece, I highlight that the Air Force currently operates with the oldest aircraft and smallest force in its history, and emphasize how the ongoing conflict in Iran will severely test and strain our aircraft availability and munitions stockpiles. I also offer my four solutions for how the United States must triage and refocus investments in American Airpower.

You can read the piece here or by clicking the image below.

Urging Lukoil to Permanently Sever Russian Ties

This week, I also led several of my colleagues in a letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent applauding his and the Trump Administration's work to cut off Russian energy assets that help fund Moscow's military and cyber aggression against Ukraine and U.S. allies. In the letter, we highlight the significant decline in Russia's oil and gas reserves following the administration's recent sanctions, but also emphasize that the U.S. must remain vigilant in the divestment process to ensure energy assets aren't recycled back into Russia's hands.

We also noted that the recent escalation in Iran and heightened instability across the Middle East further underscore the importance of ensuring American energy companies continue to lead the way. With global energy markets facing renewed volatility, we must prevent Russian-controlled assets from re-entering adversarial hands. Read more about the letter in Fox News here or by clicking the image below.

Service Academy Night in Llano

My office will be hosting a Service Academy Night in Llano for students, parents, and educators to learn about the opportunities for students to serve at a U.S. Service Academy.

In 1995, I sought a nomination to the U.S. Air Force Academy, and it was one of the best decisions of my life. Now, as a Member of Congress, I have the privilege of helping the next generation begin that same journey by nominating exceptional young men and women to our nation's Service Academies.

If you are a student in Texas's 11th Congressional District interested in seizing the opportunity to attend a U.S. Service Academy, I strongly encourage you to partake in my office's upcoming Service Academy Night in Llano. If you are not able to attend, please don't hesitate to contact my office or my Academy Liaison, Mary O'Connor, with any questions about the application process.

Llano Service Academy Night

March 31st, from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm

*Registration begins at 5:30 pm*

Llano High School Auditorium

2509 S. State Highway 16

Llano, Texas, 78643

*More Service Academy Nights to be announced*

Please direct all questions to my Service Academy Liaison, Mary O'Connor, at mary.oconnor@mail.house.gov

If you are unable to attend and are interested in applying to a U.S. Service Academy, you can watch a recording of a previous Service Academy Night here.

2026 Congressional Art Competition

Attention all parents, students, and teachers in TX-11! My office is now accepting submissions for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition. This competition gives high school students from across Texas-11 the opportunity to have their artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building.

This year's theme is 'Celebrating America's 250th Anniversary,' and students will have until April 13th, 2026, to submit their artwork. Information on the Congressional Art Competition, including how to apply, can be found on the Congressman's website by clicking here.

Every year, I am completely blown away by the talent and creativity of so many incredible young artists throughout Texas-11 who participate in the Congressional Art Competition. This year's theme gives students the opportunity to tell America's story through their own creative lens. I am especially excited to see how students use their art to celebrate our nation's history and express their patriotism. I am incredibly blessed to represent the 11th District and to support these remarkable young artists as they help commemorate this historic moment for our country.

RULES

Artwork must be two-dimensional and original in concept, design, and execution. Art must follow the theme of 'Celebrating America's 250th Anniversary.'

The artwork's dimensions can be no larger than 26 inches high, 26 inches wide, and 4 inches deep. Accepted mediums for the two-dimensional artwork are as follows:

· Paintings: oil, acrylics, watercolor, etc.

· Drawings: colored pencil, pencil, ink, marker, pastel, charcoal (It is recommended that charcoal and pastel drawings be fixed.)

· Collages: must be two-dimensional

· Prints: lithographs, silkscreen, block prints

· Mixed Media: use of more than two mediums such as pencil, ink, watercolor, etc.

· Computer-generated art

· Photographs

Students are highly encouraged to review the competition’s complete rules and regulations on our congressional website. Please contact Carol Cunningham in the Llano District Office at carol.cunningham@mail.house.gov with any questions.

Second Lady Usha Vance Bookmark Design Contest for America 250

Last week, Second Lady Usha Vance announced the Bookmark Design Challenge: Celebrating America's 250th, an opportunity for students in grades Kindergarten-8th grade to design an original bookmark celebrating the nation's 250th anniversary.

As we celebrate America's 250th Birthday this year, we have a powerful opportunity, and responsibility, to ignite a love of country in the next generation. America's story is one of freedom and limitless possibility, and our students should feel proud to be part of it. This Bookmark Design Challenge invites young people to express their creativity and discover what patriotism means to them. I applaud Second Lady Vance for leading this effort to empower kids to honor our past while imagining America's future, and I encourage every student in TX-11 to participate.

This challenge is open to students across the nation’s 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five territories. Second Lady Usha Vance will select three national winners—one from each of the following categories:

· K–2

· Grades 3–5

· Grades 6–8

Winning designs will be featured during commemorative activities celebrating America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, such as the Great American State Fair, the Second Lady’s 2026 Summer Reading Challenge, and other Office of the Second Lady and NEA events. Each winning student, accompanied by a parent or guardian, will also be invited to Washington, DC, in summer 2026 to participate in a series of celebratory events.

Applications must be submitted through the NEA’s website arts.gov/bookmarks before Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET. Please visit the NEA’s website for additional details, including full guidelines and FAQs. Questions about the Bookmark Design Challenge may be directed to bookmarks@arts.gov.


Reps. Sewell and Rogers Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Alabama's Rural Wastewater Crisis

Bill would help households install or upgrade wastewater systems through USDA grant program

Washington D.C. — U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Mike Rogers (AL-03) introduced the Rural Decentralized Water Systems Reauthorization Act in the House of Representatives. This bipartisan, bicameral bill would combat Alabama’s rural wastewater crisis by strengthening and expanding the existing United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Decentralized Water Systems Program which provides grants to help low- and moderate-income households install or upgrade individually owned decentralized wastewater systems.

The program was created by Sewell and Rogers' Rural Septic Tank Access Act which was included and passed in the 2018 Farm Bill.

"I have seen firsthand the health and environmental hazards caused by failing wastewater systems in rural Alabama," said Rep. Sewell. "No family should have to endure these conditions simply because they cannot afford the exorbitant cost of maintaining their own wastewater system or lack access to municipal lines. In 2018, we took an important step toward addressing this crisis by making federal grants available to low- and moderate-income households. We are working hard to strengthen and expand this program so that we can provide greater assistance to the families who need it."

“Every community in Alabama is affected by rural wastewater access,” said Rep. Rogers. “I am proud to work with my friend from the state of Alabama, Rep. Terri Sewell, to reintroduce legislation for a critical grant program for Alabama’s waterways. Through this program, more Alabamians will gain access to the safe water systems they desperately need. I look forward to continuing this bipartisan and bicameral work to see this program reauthorized.”

Approximately 20 percent of Americans dispose of wastewater through their own sewage disposal systems. Because these systems have high maintenance costs, certain failures often go unaddressed, potentially endangering the health of millions of Americans living in areas where water can be contaminated. The problem is particularly dire in parts of rural Alabama where—in the absence of municipal wastewater systems—many families have struggled to afford the installation and maintenance costs associated with individually owned wastewater systems.

The Rural Decentralized Water Systems Reauthorization Act:

Reauthorizes the Rural Decentralized Water Systems Grant Program through 2031

Reinstates eligibility for loans to individuals earning up to 100 percent of the area median income.

Targets funding through subgrants to individuals earning 60 percent or less of the area median income.

Increases the maximum subgrant or loan amount from $15,000 to $20,000.

Allows subgrant funding to include the cost of a performance warranty for individually owned household decentralized wastewater systems.

Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV).

“Hundreds of thousands of homes across the U.S. lack access to basic sewage systems, with many left with no option but to straight-pipe raw sewage directly into their back yards.” said Senator Booker. "Many New Jerseyans in low-income households are dealing with broken or outdated wastewater systems, and this bill will help provide better access to wastewater infrastructure for families who desperately need it.”

“Strengthening infrastructure across West Virginia has long been a top priority for me,” Senator Capito said. “This legislation will improve home water systems in our state and reauthorize the Rural Decentralized Water Systems Grant Program, a program that has delivered real results for West Virginians. This legislation is also included in my Farm Bill priorities this year, and I look forward to continuing my work to move it forward.”

Bill text can be found here.

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Stanton, Colleagues Demand Answers on Reported U.S. Strike on Iranian Girls' School

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Greg Stanton (AZ-04), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, joined 121 colleagues in demanding immediate answers from the Administration on the killing of civilians 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.

The letter to Secretary Hegseth requested detailed information about the strikes on the girls’ school, the nature of military targeting, the steps taken to mitigate and respond to civilian harm, and more. The lawmakers also called for the public release of the findings of the investigation into the strikes on the Shajareh Tayyebeh school.

Find the full letter HERE and below:

Dear Secretary Hegseth:

We write to express alarm regarding reports of civilian casualties arising from Operation Epic Fury in Iran and urgently request detailed information about the steps the U.S. is taking to prevent and respond to civilian harm. We are particularly disturbed by reports of what appears to be the deadliest attack on civilians thus far: a girls’ elementary school, where at least 175 civilians, many of them children, were reported killed and 100 children and staff wounded. The New York Times recently reported that the U.S. preliminary investigation found that the United States is responsible for this strike due to outdated targeting data. With reportedly over 1,000 total civilian deaths already and a lack of clarity about the anticipated scale and duration of operations, we demand clear answers on how the Department plans to investigate these reports and prevent the risk of further civilian harm.

Longstanding U.S. military policy and the law of armed conflict, also known as international humanitarian law, apply during wartime and protect civilians and military service members alike. Under the law of armed conflict, the U.S. must distinguish between civilians and combatants, ensure proportionality, and take all feasible precautions to protect civilians. The Department of Defense has in recent years improved the way it prevents, mitigates, and responds to civilian harm, including through its Department of Defense Instruction on Civilian Mitigation and Response (DOD-I 30001.7) and the Civilian Protection Center of Excellence that provides direct support to warfighters.

We are therefore deeply concerned by reports of U.S. and Israeli strikes in Iran that have resulted in significant and growing civilian harm. The U.S. and Israel have reportedly struck or impacted numerous civilian sites—including schools, hospitals, gymnasiums, public gathering spaces, and a UNESCO heritage site. In addition to civilian casualties, these strikes have disrupted civilian life and damaged infrastructure. The U.S. military must refrain from using explosive weapons in densely populated, civilian areas in line with its commitments under the Political Declaration on the Use of Explosive Weapons in Populated Areas. Civilians and civilian infrastructure may under no circumstances be the object of attack and must at all times be respected and protected by all parties.

Reported civilian harm by the U.S. and Israel during Operation Epic Fury is particularly alarming yet unsurprising given the recent strain on our civilian protection institutions. For example, we understand that budget reductions at the Department have deprived military commands—including at U.S. Central Command—of essential resources needed to meaningfully address civilian casualties. In February 2025, you fired top military lawyers responsible for ensuring compliance with the laws of war, including those designed to protect civilians in conflict. And on March 2, 2026, you asserted that there would be “No stupid rules of 1 engagement.” President Trump has likewise declared that “I don’t need international law.” This attitude is not only lawless but counterproductive. General Joseph Votel, former Commander of U.S. Central Command, recently stated “If you cause so many civilian casualties and you cause so much civilian harm here, it can actually undermine the mission that the military has been sent in to do [...] the benefit to be gained by supporting these [Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response (CHMR)] positions, I think it outweighs the movement of resources to other places.” Now is not the time to admonish the principles of civilian protection and undermine the important work the Department has undertaken in recent years to advance CHMR policy and practice.

To that end, we seek detailed information regarding civilian protection during Operation Epic Fury and steps the military is taking to mitigate and respond to civilian harm. We also urge your Department to make public the findings of the ongoing investigation with respect to the strikes on the Shajareh Tayyebeh school.

Specifically, we request written responses to the following questions:

1. Did the United States Armed Forces carry out the strikes on the Shajareh Tayyebeh school? If so, what was the target and why was the decision taken to execute the strikes? What was the assessed civilian harm risk of the strikes, and what steps were considered or taken to prevent civilian harm?

2. What is the U.S. military’s assessment of civilian casualties from the airstrikes on the Shajareh Tayyebeh school? In light of the scale of reported deaths of children in Minab, will the Department investigate the airstrikes on the Shajareh Tayyebeh school as a possible war crime?

3. What is the role of artificial intelligence, if any, in selecting targets, assessing intelligence, and making legal determinations during Operation Epic Fury? If artificial intelligence is used, is it subject to human review and at what point? Was artificial intelligence, including the use of Maven Smart System, used to identify the Shajareh Tayyebeh school as a target? If so, did a human verify the accuracy of this target?

4. How are congressionally mandated civilian harm mitigation and response (CHMR) policies and institutions, including DoD-I 3000.17 and the Civilian Protection Center of Excellence, being resourced, implemented, and operationalized during Operation Epic Fury?

5. What steps is the Department taking to prevent and mitigate civilian harm in its planning and targeting during Operation Epic Fury? What precautions is the U.S. taking to avoid and minimize civilian harm?

6. Please describe the Department’s process for target selection and review in Operation Epic Fury. Has the Department employed red-teaming and used civilian environment teams to mitigate civilian harm in this operation? If so, how do you assess the success of these actions? How many personnel are responsible for civilian harm mitigation and response in Operation Epic Fury?

7. What steps does the U.S. plan to take to respond to civilian harm reports from Operation Epic Fury, including development of lessons learned and post-harm responses to civilians?

8. Will the Department commit to surging CHMR capabilities to protect civilians in the context of Operation Epic Fury? Please indicate your plan for doing so, and any resources required from Congress.

9. Has the Department established accessible channels for civilians to report alleged civilian harm in Operation Epic fury? Are those channels available in Persian, Kurdish, and other major Iranian languages?

10. How is the Department working with Israeli authorities to harmonize civilian harm practices and policies between U.S. and Israeli forces?

We request a response no later than March 20, 2026. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.


Congressman Van Drew Shares Progress Moving Forward to Fix Garden State Parkway Exit 20

Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Van Drew announced progress toward fixing the long-standing traffic design issue at Exit 20 on the Garden State Parkway.

"This has been a priority for me since my time in the State Legislature, and I have been working with the New Jersey Turnpike Authority to finally get this moving," said Congressman Van Drew. "Right now, Exit 20 is designed so you can only enter the Parkway heading south and only exit when traveling north. That simply does not make sense for the people who live and work here. The Turnpike Authority has now completed the preliminary design for improvements. The next step is for the project to move through the Authority's budget prioritization process to be considered for funding. I will keep pushing to make sure this project moves forward so this interchange finally works the way it should for South Jersey."


Rep. Gabe Vasquez Demands Answers From Secretary Hegseth on Attack on Girls’ School That Killed 175 in Iran

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On March 13, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth demanding answers and accountability following damning reports of mass civilian casualties from American strikes on a girls’ school in Iran. The letter, sent alongside House colleagues, calls for “detailed information about the steps the U.S. is taking to prevent and respond to civilian harm,” as well as an assessment of the civilian casualties caused by airstrikes on the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school that occurred last week. Preliminary investigations indicate that the strike on the girls’ school was a mistake caused by the U.S. military’s use of outdated targeting data.

“Civilians and civilian infrastructure may under no circumstances be the object of attack and must at all times be respected and protected by all parties,” wrote Vasquez and other members of Congress in the letter. “We seek detailed information regarding civilian protection during Operation Epic Fury and steps the military is taking to mitigate and respond to civilian harm.”

In addition to demanding answers and accountability around civilian casualties, Rep. Vasquez has been outspoken against the Administration’s war in Iran.

Rep. Vasquez voted in support of the Iran War Powers Resolution to curb the Administration's unilateral military actions in Iran without Congressional approval.

Rep. Vasquez cosponsored a bill to ban federal officials from trading on prediction markets after reports raised concern over Administration officials profiting off the Iran war.

Rep. Vasquez has also raised concerns over the spike in gas prices caused by the war in Iran and has urged the Administration to refocus on bringing down costs at home, not launching another prolonged conflict overseas that costs taxpayers billions of dollars. Administration officials have estimated the first six days of the war cost taxpayers over $11 billion.

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