Rep. Nancy Mace Brings Stranded South Carolina Family Home From Iran Conflict, Helps Evacuate 155 More Americans

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Mar. 12, 2026) – Congresswoman Nancy Mace traveled to Israel after learning a South Carolina family was stranded in an active war zone. What began as a mission to bring one family home turned into a full-scale evacuation, with Rep. Mace joining veteran-led nonprofit Grey Bull Rescue to bring 155 Americans home, including 11 infants and dozens of women and children.

Rep. Mace issued the following statement on the rescue mission:

"I left Israel last night on a flight full of Americans.

"I originally went because there was a South Carolina family who was stranded. And because when your people are stranded in a war zone, the only answer worthy of the office - worthy of our state - worthy of our country - is to get them out.

"I have not slept. Not eaten much. And seen things. I am eternally grateful for every exhausting, humbling moment of it.

"There are those who govern from a distance - who weigh the optics or wait for the situation to resolve itself - and then there are those who get on a plane.

"I am the person who has always gotten on the plane.

"The family I traveled here for are safely home. But then I learned about more families. Hundreds of families. Thousands. Still stranded. Whom Grey Bull and many other nonprofits are helping.

"Then I heard about Grey Bull Rescue and the Americans they were evacuating. This was Grey Bull’s 808th mission. They got out 155 Americans today, women, infants, children. They had the people but didn’t have the plane. I jumped in to assist.

"Seeing this conflict firsthand reminds you of what is at stake when the world becomes dangerous and leadership becomes a question of character, not convenience.

"Today I am grateful. And I will never forget what I saw. What I learned. And the Americans who volunteered and who are serving our nation patriotically.”

Bryan Stern, Founder and Chairman of Grey Bull Rescue provided the following statement on the rescue mission and Rep. Mace's efforts:

“Last night, we evacuated yet another plane full of Americans trapped in Israel held at risk by Iranian missiles and drones. To date, in this war alone, we have rescued 591 Americans.

“Families. Children. Babies. People who have spent weeks in bomb shelters praying for their very lives, listening to warning sirens, feeling the ground shake from impacts, and watching missiles fly overhead in an indiscriminate war zone where Iranian missiles prey on anything.

“This is when Grey Bull Rescue goes to work. Grey Bull has rescued THOUSANDS from Iranian and Iranian-backed terrorists since 7 Oct, then again in June 2025, and now again in this war.

“Our team—made up of Special Operations and Intelligence Community veterans – who grew up in the most elite units and agencies in the U.S. arsenal - deploy to dangerous places to rescue and evacuate Americans to safety.

“Today was our team’s 808th mission – over 8,700 lives saved….as of last night.

“With the help of Congresswoman Nancy Mace and in close coordination with the U.S. State Department, just last night we evacuated 155 Americans out of an active war zone. Congresswoman Mace was fully embedded with our team, not to watch, but to work to save lives.

“While a core value of Grey Bull Rescue is to be absolutely apolitical we are always PROUD AMERICANS to see our elected officials fighting for their constituents. Congresswoman Mace, saved lives this week.

“Thank you as well to our colleagues at State Department. Specifically, U.S. Embassy Amman and U.S. Embassy Jerasulem. We watched the Consular Staffs of both embassies work tirelessly to assist Americans to the best of their ability within the confines of policy limitations. While policies may be problematic, the consular officers work day and night for Americans.”

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Mast renews push for all fallen servicemembers to be honored in Capitol Rotunda

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Representative Brian Mast (FL-21) reiterated his call to allow every fallen service member to lie in state in the Rotunda of the United States Capitol and urged the passage of H.R. 3642, the Final Honors Act.

Rep. Mast’s renewed push comes in light of recent casualties from Operation Epic Fury, including seven confirmed by the U.S. Department of War: Captain Cody Khork of Winter Haven, Florida; Sergeant First Class Noah Tietjens of Bellevue, Nebraska; Sergeant First Class Nicole Amor of White Bear Lake, Minnesota; Sergeant Declan Coady of West Des Moines, Iowa; Major Jeffrey O’Brien of Indianola, Iowa; Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert Marzan of Sacramento, California; and Sergeant Benjamin Pennington of Glendale, Kentucky.

“The loss of my brothers and sister-in-arms weighs heavy on my heart each and everyday, but I could not be prouder of the seven who gave their lives in defense of our nation. When we lose a service member, our country mourns together, and my Final Honors Act would allow a grateful nation the chance to show the respect and honor our fallen deserve,” Rep. Brian Mast said.

Rep. Mast’s bill emphasizes that the sacrifice by our service members warrants the most sacred honor Congress can authorize, advocating for the establishment of a standing authorization for any service member killed in action to lie in state—a sacred tribute afforded to presidents and high-ranking military officials.

While he continues to advocate for a lasting authorization by passing the Final Honors Act, Rep. Mast has also introduced a concurrent resolution to authorize the use of the Rotunda to honor and recognize the service of Captain Cody Khork, Sergeant First Class Noah Tietjens, Sergeant First Class Nicole Amor, Sergeant Declan Coady, Major Jeffrey O’Brien, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert Marzan, and Sergeant Benjamin Pennington.

Read the Final Honors Act here.

Below is the Concurrent Resolution.


REP. MIKE THOMPSON LEADS OVER 700 COMMUNITY MEMBERS IN NAPA AND WOODLAND FOR “NO FOREVER WARS” DAYS OF ACTION

Napa and Woodland, CA — Congressman Mike Thompson (CA-04) led over 700 community members, veterans, and military families this weekend in Napa and Woodland for “No Forever Wars” Day of Action events calling for congressional oversight regarding the U.S. military involvement in Iran.

“This unauthorized war in Iran has already cost seven American lives and more than a billion taxpayer dollars per day, with no clear end in sight,” said Thompson. “As a combat veteran, I know that war is hell, and the American people deserve transparency, a clear justification, and a real exit strategy from this administration. I voted for the War Powers Resolution, which would prevent the administration from taking further military action in Iran, because Congress must authorize sending our troops into harm’s way, and we cannot afford to repeat the costly mistakes of the past. No forever wars.”

In Napa, Thompson spoke at a “No Forever Wars” Day of Action on Friday, March 6 at Veterans Park, where over 500 community members gathered to hear from veterans, military families, and local leaders concerned about the prospect of another prolonged military conflict. Thompson was joined by speakers including American Canyon Mayor and Navy Beirut combat veteran Pierre Washington; Afghanistan Army combat veteran Carlos Salazer; Afghanistan Army combat veteran and Indivisible Napa co-lead Val O’Pry; Gold Star wife Leah Doyle; and Napa County Supervisor Liz Alessio, whose son served in the military.

In Woodland, Thompson participated in a second Day of Action on Saturday, March 7 at Heritage Plaza, where over 200 community members gathered in downtown Woodland to call for an end to endless wars and for Congress to reassert its authority over decisions to engage in military conflict. Thompson delivered opening and closing remarks and introduced local speakers, including Vietnam combat veteran Ramon Urbano; Air Force veteran Karen White; Afghanistan Marine Corps combat veteran Oscar Arbulu; Afghanistan Marine Corps combat veteran and IBEW representative Mike Tilden; and local elected officials.


Neal, Larson Demand Answers and Accountability from SSA Commissioner Bisignano

Following bombshell reporting that SSA’s key databases were copied onto a personal thumb drive for a DOGE employee’s personal gain, the Social Security leaders are fighting for transparency for the American people

WASHINGTON, DC— Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA) and Social Security Subcommittee Ranking Member John B. Larson (D-CT) called upon Social Security Administration (SSA) Commissioner Frank Bisignano to finally give Congress and the American people the transparency they deserve after another whistleblower made shocking allegations on key data being mishandled at SSA. This demand for answers follows an in-person, bipartisan meeting where Commissioner Bisignano dismissed allegations from another whistleblower and failed to inspire confidence that he is fully investigating these allegations.

“In the meeting, the two of us asked repeatedly about access by DOGE members to the public’s Social Security data, and SSA’s apparent lack of oversight,” wrote Neal and Larson. “Your responses seemingly minimized our grave concerns.”

The lawmakers continued: “Yet contrary to your assertions, a new whistleblower has come forward alleging that a former DOGE member, reportedly by his own account, copied files containing Social Security PII on all Americans, living or dead, onto his own personal device(s) and tried to use these files as a private citizen…[T]his bombshell new report fuels our alarm that under your watch a dangerous lack of oversight may have led to a major security breach of Americans’ most private Social Security data.”

Given the gravity of these allegations and the sensitivity of SSA data, Neal and Larson emphasized the need for a swift response, giving Commissioner Bisignano until March 26, 2026 to detail the extent of his knowledge of this situation, how SSA is investigating DOGE’s actions at SSA and risk to the public, and what assurances he can provide about his leadership going forward.

The full letter, with questions, is available HERE.

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Neal Statement on Trump’s Latest Trade Abuse

SPRINGFIELD, MA— Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement after the Trump Administration began pursuing Section 301 investigations in an attempt to rebuild their price-hiking tariff scheme after their Supreme Court loss on IEEPA:

“It won’t surprise anyone that once again Trump is refusing to accept the reality of his loss and is desperately back at the drawing board trying to find any pretext he can to reclaim power the Supreme Court rightfully said he doesn’t have. Neither the Constitution nor our trade laws give the President the kind of carte blanche authority he seeks to wreak havoc by continuing to raise tariffs or taxes. Hard as he might try none of our trade laws can be stretched that far. Section 301 is predicated on thorough investigations and reporting. Yet again, the Trump Administration thinks it’s above the law, robbing the people of transparency as they find another way to hike prices.

“The people see this for what it is. The President’s commitment to pickpocketing working families, raising costs, and bullying our trading partners is unrelenting, and Democrats will keep fighting it every step of the way.”


Rep. Norcross Delivers $1.7 Million in Community Project Funding to Improve Westville and Magnolia Fire Safety

CHERRY HILL, NJ – Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (D-NJ-01) delivered $1,700,000 in Community Project Funding to Westville Fire Department and Borough of Magnolia to improve fire safety in South Jersey. $900,000 in federal funding was awarded to Westville Fire District for a new rescue pumper and $822,000 will be presented to Magnolia Fire Company to purchase a new fire engine.

“Our firefighters put their lives on the line every day to keep our community safe and ensuring they have the tools they need to respond quickly and safely is crucial,” said Congressman Donald Norcross. “This investment is needed now more than ever before, when the Trump Administration has made major cuts to federal grant programs across the country, so I couldn’t think of a better time for this funding to come through. Together, we are helping Westville and Magnolia replace aging equipment so our firefighters can continue keeping our residents safe.”

“The Borough Council and I are grateful to share that the Borough of Magnolia has been awarded $822,000 in federal funding to support the purchase of a new fire apparatus. We humbly thank Congressman Donald Norcross for securing this funding and for his continued support,”said Mayor BettyAnn Cowling-Carson. “This investment not only provides significant savings for taxpayers but also ensures that our volunteers can continue delivering reliable, professional emergency services for years to come.”

“The Borough of Westville, the Westville Fire District #1, Board of Fire Commissioners along with the members of the Westville Fire Department extend their sincere gratitude to Congressman Donald Norcross for his continued support of the Borough of Westville and our dedicated career and volunteer firefighters,” said Mayor Fritz H. Sims, Jr.“This funding will allow the Westville Fire Department to continue to have the resources necessary to operate effectively, serve the Borough at the highest level, and remain fully equipped to provide extremely effective, reliable, and professional emergency response services for many years to come.”

These projects are a part of the $11.98 million Congressman Norcross secured for 15 Community Project Funding (CPF) awards throughout New Jersey’s First Congressional District to support economic development, create jobs, and respond to the most pressing needs of the community.

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WATCH: Nunn Highlights Working Families Tax Cuts with Iowa Small Businesses

DES MOINES, IA — Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) today joined business leaders and small business owners for a roundtable with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Iowa Association of Business and Industry to discuss how the Working Families Tax Cuts are strengthening Iowa’s economy and helping local employers grow.

B-roll from the roundtable is available here and below.

“Small businesses are the backbone of Iowa’s economy, and today’s roundtable made clear that the Working Families Tax Cuts are already delivering for them,” said Rep. Nunn. “The result is a tax code that gives owners the certainty they need to hire, invest, and grow — strengthening Iowa’s Main Streets and putting more dollars back in the pockets of working families.”

During the roundtable, Rep. Nunn highlighted how several provisions of the Working Families Tax Cuts are benefiting Iowa’s nearly 290,000 small businesses, including:

Permanent 20% Small Business Deduction: Makes the 20% pass-through deduction permanent, preventing an automatic tax increase on the vast majority of Iowa businesses structured as sole proprietorships, LLCs, S-corporations, and partnerships.

100% Bonus Depreciation Restored: Allows businesses to immediately write off the full cost of qualifying investments such as machinery and equipment instead of depreciating them over multiple years, freeing up capital to reinvest and grow.

Section 179 Expensing Raised to $2.5 Million: Raises the cap on equipment and capital investment businesses can immediately deduct from roughly $1.25 million to $2.5 million, supporting manufacturers and equipment-heavy operations.

R&D Expensing Restored: Allows businesses to immediately deduct domestic research and development costs again, reversing prior rules that required companies to spread those expenses over several years.

No Tax on Tips or Overtime: Creates new federal tax deductions for tip income and overtime pay, helping workers keep more of what they earn and supporting restaurants, hospitality, and service businesses in attracting and retaining employees.

For Iowa families, the Working Families Tax Cuts provide an average tax savings of $3,139 this year, according to the Tax Foundation. Key provisions include a permanently expanded $31,500 standard deduction for married couples, a $2,200 Child Tax Credit per child, and a new $6,000 deduction for seniors. The average tax refund is already running 11% higher in 2026 than in 2025.

“The U.S. Chamber thanks Congressman Nunn for an engaging discussion today with local business owners about how the pro-growth tax provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act are helping Iowa businesses and workers plan, invest, and grow with confidence,” said John Kirchner, Vice President of Government Affairs, U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “We appreciate his commitment to policies that strengthen the state’s economic future.”

“Congressman Nunn’s support of the Working Families Tax Cuts has allowed Iowa small businesses and manufacturers to expand operations by increasing capital investment and hiring more employees,” said Nicole Crain, President, Iowa Association of Business and Industry. “Manufacturing is a driving force in Iowa’s economy, employing more than 16,000 hardworking Iowans in the Third Congressional District. ABI appreciates Congressman Nunn and the U.S. Chamber for bringing employers together to discuss policies that help Iowa manufacturers invest, hire, and grow.”

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

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Owens Leads Legislation to Protect Student Learning During Teacher Strikes and Public Health Emergencies

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Burgess Owens (UT-04) introduced the Kids in Classes Act this morning to protect students from the loss of learning they suffer due to prolonged teacher strikes or public health emergencies.

“Education is the greatest gift we can give the rising generation, and after lengthy school closures due to the pandemic and union strikes, our children are falling behind. Every hour lost in the classroom is time students don’t get back,” said Rep. Owens. “Our students and our teachers need to be in class. The Kids in Classes Act puts parents back in the driver’s seat, ensuring that when schools shut down, funding follows the student instead of the system. Every child in America deserves a fighting chance, no matter their circumstances or zip code.”

Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) introduced a companion bill in the Senate on Wednesday.

“Education should never be held hostage to politics,” said Sen. Scott. “For far too many families, especially in low-income communities, school closures mean lost learning, lost opportunity, and long-term consequences. Empowering parents with real options ensures that when systems fail, students don’t. The Kids in Classes Act puts families first and guarantees that education dollars are used for education – even when the school doors are closed. Our focus must remain where it belongs: protecting children’s futures and expanding opportunity in every community.”

Background:

When schools close for an extended period due to a public health emergency or collective bargaining action, federal funding should follow the student to minimize the disruption in education.

The Kids in Classes Act ensures that Title I funding will go to families in the event of an extended school closure due to a public health emergency or a teacher strike.

COVID-19 taught us that students suffer during lengthy learning disruptions, and millions of parents and families have suffered the impacts of those long-term school closures. It isn’t always public health emergencies that can take a toll on students’ time learning in the classroom, extended teacher strikes also take children from the classroom, costing the time and continuity needed for lasting education gains.

The bill will require local education agencies to develop a plan to distribute Title I funding directly to families for qualified educational expenses in the event of a school closure lasting for more than 3 days.

Those qualified educational expenses could include:

Curriculum and curricular materials

Books or instructional materials

Technological educational materials

Online educational materials

Tutoring or educational classes outside the home

Private school tuition

Testing fees

Diagnostic tools

Educational therapies for students with disabilities

To ensure accountability, families must submit receipts for how they spent those Title I funds and must return any money that was left unspent within 30 days of the school reopening.

The full text of the legislation is available here.

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Pappas Statement on Turkey F-16 Deployment to Cyprus

Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), co-chair of the Hellenic Caucus, released the following statement on Turkey’s decision to send U.S.-made F-16s to the occupied areas of northern Cyprus:

“Turkey’s deployment of F-16s into northern Cyprus is unacceptable and illegal under U.S. law. This move further threatens Cyprus’s sovereignty and only serves to further destabilize one of our closest allies and the entire region. President Erdogan has repeatedly ignored U.S. legal prohibitions and is emboldened to do so because administrations of both parties have rewarded or ignored this behavior rather than enforcing the law. Turkey’s decision to again ignore our laws and violate the sovereignty of one of our allies, especially in the middle of a volatile regional conflict, underscores how unreliable President Erdogan is and why it is crucial the administration not repeat the mistakes of the past. Turkey must immediately withdraw their F-16s and any other U.S.-made platforms. If the administration doesn’t demand their withdrawal, I will work with my colleagues in Congress to address the situation ourselves.”


Pingree, Murphy, King Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Protect Small Farmers from Financial Risk

Today, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) introduced the Agricultural Management Assistance Act to reauthorize and improve the Partnership for Risk Management Education and the Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) programs, which help farmers manage financial risk through diversification, marketing, or conservation practices. The AMA program is only available to 16 states that have historically low rates of participation in the Federal Crop Insurance Program, including Maine. U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), and Angus King (I-Maine) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

The Agriculture Management Assistance Act would boost funding for the AMA to $30 million, increase funding limits for farmers to $200,000 over five years, and expand the eligible uses for these funds to include: soil health improvements, composting, supporting perennial crop production, and food safety certification in addition to existing authorized uses such as water management structure and soil erosion control.

“Farmers in Maine and across the country are facing unprecedented uncertainty—from extreme weather and rising costs to volatile markets. Programs like Agricultural Management Assistance give farms the tools they need to manage risk, invest in soil health and conservation, and keep their operations viable for the long term,” said Pingree. "I’m proud to partner with Senators Murphy and King to strengthen this program and ensure farmers in states like Maine have the support they need to adapt and thrive.”

“Connecticut’s small farmers are really important to the diversity of our state’s food supply, but they face unique challenges, especially as climate change worsens,” said Murphy. “Our bill provides small farmers with the support they need to navigate financial risks and invests in making their farms more resilient and efficient in the long term.”

“Maine’s farmers are the backbone of our rural communities, and they deserve the same safeguards and assistance that we provide other industries across the country,” said King. “The Agricultural Management Assistance Act will help ensure that Maine farms have the tools they need to manage financial risks, handle nature’s evolving challenges, and continue to produce the food that supports our local economies and families.”

Full text of the bill is available HERE.

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Amata Congratulates Alek West for Acceptance to U.S. Service Academies

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is delighted to announce that Alek Timuialatogo West of Vatia has been accepted for admittance to both the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis and the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. He has accepted his first choice to attend the Naval Academy, with interest in being a Navy Psychiatrist.

“I’m so pleased to announce Alek has been accepted to these two prestigious Service Academies,” said Congresswoman Amata. “He now has a fully qualified appointment to the Naval Academy. Congratulations on this excellent achievement, and all the hard work and dedication through his high school years to achieve this outcome. A special thank you and congratulations to his family, teachers, Samoana High School, and most of all his proud parents. It’s always a thrill to congratulate our outstanding students as they choose their pathways to higher education.”

A Service Academy acceptance requires high grades from beginning to end of high school. The Service Academies require strong academics, high test scores, and additionally, the demonstration of extracurricular activities, volunteering, or other roles that show leadership and motivation.

Congresswoman Amata nominated Alek this January among a group of six student nominees who sent in nine total Service Academy applications this year from American Samoa. His extra-curricular efforts include Finafinau environmental efforts, such as clean up and planting, as well as youth athletics coaching and volunteering.

Congresswoman Amata’s Chief of Staff, Col. Leafaina Tavai (Ret.), was the first service academy graduate from American Samoa, graduating from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. She recommends that motivated students consider applying to multiple Academies, recognizing that the applications are time-consuming, but students cannot be nominated without a completed application on file with the Academy.

The Service Academies are selective and highly competitive, and she notes prospective applicants should not forget there are five total Service Academy possibilities, including the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York, and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut. The Coast Guard Academy does not include a congressional nomination process, but the Congresswoman will be very happy to highlight and congratulate any Academy acceptance, as American Samoa takes pride in each of these students.

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Amata Welcomes American Samoa Health and Homeland Security Teams

On Tuesday, Congresswoman Amata and her staff in DC welcomed representatives from the American Samoa Department of Health as part of their visit to the U.S. Capitol, and a group from American Samoa Department of Homeland Security was able to come by for a visit later the same day.

Speaker's Balcony photo at the Capitol with the National Mall in the background

The Department of Health representatives included Dr. Aifili John Tufa, Ms. Annie Noa, Mrs. Emma Reid-Alo, Langahelotu Vivao, Mr. Francis Vivao, Dr. Anaise Uso, and they were accompanied by several family members. They went on a previously scheduled tour of the U.S. Capitol with Amata’s staff, visited in the congressional office, and shared lunch with Congresswoman Amata nearby on Capitol Hill.

Also pictured from the American Samoa Department of Homeland Security are Meshake Gaisoa, Jolene Mageo Kava, and Sharma Sapolu.

Congresswoman Amata with Dr. Aifili John Tufa, Ms. Annie Noa, Mrs. Emma Reid-Alo, Langahelotu Vivao, Mr. Francis Vivao, Dr. Anaise Uso, and some of their family members

“Thank you to all these dedicated professionals for taking time to visit, and sharing their priorities. I appreciate their efforts this week in DC, and especially all their work to deliver the best possible services back home,” said Congresswoman Amata.

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Jacobs, Welch Introduce Bicameral Bill Demanding Accountability for Hind Rajab, Palestinian Child Killed by Israeli Forces

U.S. Representative Sara Jacobs (D-CA-51) and U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today led Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Reps. Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20) and Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07) in introducing the Justice for Hind Rajab Act, legislation that requires the U.S. government to investigate and hold accountable those responsible for the killing of five-year-old Palestinian child Hind Rajab, her family, and paramedics sent to rescue her. The legislation would require the Trump Administration to provide comprehensive answers on the death of Hind and broader patterns of civilian harm in Gaza.

Hind’s tragic story was the inspiration for a new docudrama film, titled “The Voice of Hind Rajab.” The film follows Red Crescent volunteers as they attempt to rescue Hind and her family and was nominated for an Academy Award in the Best International Feature Film category. The Academy Awards will take place on March 15, 2026.

“Five-year-old Hind should still be alive today. She was a beautiful and brave little girl with her whole life ahead of her. I was horrified by reports of the Israeli Defense Forces firing over 300 bullets at her and her family while they were simply trying to escape Gaza. No child should have to face that kind of terror, and no family should have to carry that kind of loss. That’s why I’m incredibly proud to partner with Senator Welch to deliver justice and accountability for Hind Rajab’s murder and all the civilian harm in Gaza. Hind’s story is a devastating reminder of the daily reality faced by Palestinians – and we won’t rest until they have safety, security, and peace,” said Rep. Jacobs.

“Hind Rajab, her family, and the paramedics who tried to save them, should be alive today. This was not a ‘fog of war’ situation. There wasn’t any reason for the IDF to believe Hind and her family–who were trying to escape the fighting in Gaza–posed a threat,” said Senator Welch. “We need answers and accountability for the deaths of Hind, her family, and the paramedics who came to their rescue.”

“Hind Rajab deserves justice, as do the thousands of Palestinian children killed by Israeli forces during the war in Gaza,” said Rep. Castro. “Hind’s heartbreaking cries for help and the terror she felt during her last moments have been heard across the world. No family or child should experience this horrifying brutality and loss. It is unacceptable that no Israeli soldiers have been held accountable for her deaths, or for the deaths of so many thousands of other Palestinian children during this war. I stand with my colleagues and demand an investigation into her murder and justice for her death.”

“Today we honor the life of Hind Rajab, one of the tens of thousands of Palestinian children indiscriminately killed by the Israel Defense Forces in Gaza,” said Rep. Jayapal. “This legislation importantly demands an investigation into her killing so we can finally begin to bring about accountability for the countless war crimes the U.S. has been complicit in inside Gaza.”

On January 29, 2024, five-year-old Palestinian child Hind Rajab, along with six members of her extended family, were killed by machine gun fire from an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) tank while she and her family fleeing fighting and famine in Gaza City. Investigations found a total of 355 bullet holes in Hind’s car. Two paramedics attempting to rescue Hind in an ambulance—along an IDF-approved route—were also killed by Israeli tank fire as they approached the car.

The incident, which was extensively documented and has drawn international attention, has become emblematic of the devastating toll of the Gaza war on civilians, particularly children. Hind is just one of more than at least 20,000 children killed in Gaza since October 7, 2023—the highest rate of children to combatants killed in any contemporary conflict. Despite a tenuous ceasefire, Gaza’s civilians and children have continued to be killed in military operations and airstrikes.

The Justice for Hind Rajab Act would:

Present Congressional findings on the attack that killed Hind Rajab and broader patterns of civilian harm in Gaza to reassert the United States’ commitment to the Geneva Conventions and the prosecution of war crimes;

Require a report from the State Department on all U.S. and Israeli efforts to investigate and hold accountable individuals linked to the attacks, and to comply with U.S. prohibitions on assistance to foreign security units credibly implicated in gross violations of human rights; and

Require certifications by the Secretary of State and Attorney General regarding compliance with U.S. war crimes laws, including a commitment to investigate and, where appropriate, prosecute individuals responsible for the attack on Hind, her family, and the paramedics who responded to the scene.

Learn more about the Justice for Hind Rajab Act.

Read and download the full text of the bill.

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Reps. Sara Jacobs, Jason Crow, Yassamin Ansari Lead Majority of House Democratic Caucus Demanding Answers on Reported U.S. Strike on Iranian School

Reps. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) and Jason Crow (CO-06), Founders and Co-Chairs of the Protection of Civilians in Conflict Caucus, and Rep. Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), the first Democratic Iranian-American Member of Congress, led a total of 121 House Democrats in demanding answers on civilian harm during Operation Epic Fury, including a reported U.S. strike on an Iranian girls’ elementary school, where at least 175 civilians, many of them children, were killed. In a letter to Secretary Hegseth, the lawmakers requested detailed information about the strikes on Shajareh Tayyebeh school, the nature of the 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.

Read the Letter Here

The lawmakers wrote:

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 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:

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?

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?

What is the role of artificial intelligence, if any, in selecting targets, assessing intelligence, and making legal determinations during Operation Epic Fury? If AI 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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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.

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?

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.


Stanton, Ansari, Grijalva Demand Answers on Surprise Facility Contract Awards

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Greg Stanton (AZ-04) led U.S. Representatives Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) and Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07) on two letters demanding answers about the recent $313.4 million contract awarded to GardaWorld Federal Services LLC (GardaWorld) by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to renovate the Surprise, Arizona immigration facility.

“Once again, DHS leaves Arizonans in the dark, awarding a massive contract to a firm with no experience in detention center oversight. This is Trump’s mass deportation agenda at work, and none of this makes our community safer or more prosperous—just the opposite,” said Rep. Stanton.

“Arizonans are fed up with ICE terrorizing our communities and they don’t want to see yet another detention center here in Arizona, especially not one in a hastily converted warehouse, run by an unqualified contractor, that is being built with no input from the local community. That’s why Reps. Stanton, Grijalva, and I are demanding answers,” said Rep. Ansari

“At a time when in-custody deaths are reaching record highs, it is deeply alarming that DHS is handing out massive federal contracts to companies with no experience operating detention facilities,” said Rep. Grijalva. “This reckless expansion is being driven by Trump’s arbitrary deportation quotas and a for-profit detention industry cashing in on the suffering of families, including children and the elderly."

In a letter directed to outgoing DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and Acting Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Todd Lyons, the lawmakers continued to press the administration over its failure to notify local government leaders, raising concerns about community impacts and mitigation measures.

The letter also demands greater transparency into the decision-making process behind the contract, questioning whether it represents a responsible use of taxpayer dollars and why it was awarded through a Department of Defense (DOD) procurement system that bypasses the normal competitive bidding process.

The letter to DHS and ICE is HERE.

In the second letter, sent to GardaWorld Federal Services President Pete Dordal Jr., the lawmakers question the firm’s ability to convert a warehouse not designed or zoned for human habitation and how code-compliance reviews will be conducted. A report from the Washington Post also shows that GardaWorld has not previously been directly contracted by DHS to oversee a detention facility.

“The decision to convert a warehouse not designed or zoned for human habitation into a large-scale detention facility on an expedited basis raises profound questions about contractor qualifications, concern for human health and safety, and the humane treatment of individuals who will be held there,” the lawmakers wrote.


Stefanik, Cotton Introduce Legislation to Ban CCP-Sponsored Companies from Receiving U.S. Defense Contracts

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, and Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) introduced the Trucking Security and CCP Disclosure Act to ban Communist Chinese entities from receiving sensitive U.S. transportation contracts, while also prohibiting Chinese nationals from operating trucks carrying Department of War (DoW) cargo.

“Most Americans would be shocked to learn that U.S. law does not already prohibit Communist China's military from receiving transportation contracts tied to American defense projects. This bicameral legislation closes that loophole by establishing a clear firewall between the Chinese Communist Party and Department of War contracts. American tax dollars should never benefit our greatest adversary at the expense of U.S. national security,” said Stefanik.

“Communist China continues spying on American military technology by exploiting truck drivers handling Department of War cargo. My bill will require anyone handling military freight to be properly vetted to ensure our adversaries cannot gain access to valuable information,” said Cotton.

As senior Members of the Armed Services Committees and Intelligence Committees, Stefanik and Cotton are working to include the Trucking Security and CCP Disclosure Act in the FY'27 National Defense Authorization Act.


Truman Scholarship Foundation Board Member Elise Stefanik Introduces Legislation to 'Clean House' of Organization's Radical Left-Wing Bias

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY), a designated Republican appointee to the Truman Scholarship Foundation's Board of Trustees,introduced the Truman Scholarship Clean House Act which would affect top-down change and help rid the foundation of its deeply embedded left-wing bias.

"It is unfortunate and inappropriate that the Truman Scholarship Foundation continues to award scholarships to radical left-wing students—even criminals— rather than address the glaring political imbalance within its organization. Multiple data analyses have revealed the systemic underrepresentation of conservative scholarship recipients. I shared my concerns earlier this year at the board meeting. My legislation would finally reform the Truman Scholarship Foundation to promote an ideologically diverse class of recipients and ensure that only law-abiding students receive these scholarships," said Stefanik.

The Truman Scholarship Clean House Act would radically reform the scholarship program by:

Firing the current Board of Directors

Firing the current Executive Secretary

Empowering President Donald Trump to select the majority of the new Board of Directors (with advice and consent of the Senate, consistent with current law)

Requiring that interviewers who select Truman winners must be approved by a supermajority of the board to prevent highly biased individuals from serving as an interviewer

Requiring that no more than half of each board of interviewers who select Truman winners may be from the same political party, to prevent interview panels from being dominated by one political party

Codifying that only US citizens (or US nationals), not illegal immigrants, are eligible for the Truman scholarship

The legislation would also establish a code of conduct that scholarship applicants must meet with requisites including:

Not serving as the leader of a student organization that has been suspended for misconduct

Not having been suspended or expelled by their institution for violating the student code of conduct

Not having been convicted of a felony

Requiring that scholarships will be revoked from any Truman winner who fails to abide by the above terms

Stefanikreleased a letter last year to the organization's Board of Trustees, urging immediate action to address troubling patterns of political imbalance in the Foundation’s scholarship award process.

The House Education and Workforce Committee will mark up the Truman Scholarship Clean House Act next week, the first step toward advancing the legislation into law.


Rep. Steube Introduces American Families First Assistance Act

WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) introduced today the American Families First Assistance Act or AFFA Act. This bill would ensure American families — not Biden-era migrants — are prioritized in the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program.

“American taxpayer dollars should go to struggling American families, not migrants who entered the country under the Biden administration’s failed border policies,” said Rep. Steube. “The American Families First Assistance Act ensures TANF benefits are reserved for those the program was intended to serve.”

Background: The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program provides federal block grants to states to assist low-income families with children.

Under current law, several categories of non-citizens are classified as “qualified aliens” and may be eligible for TANF benefits, including individuals paroled into the United States.

The American Families First Assistance Act amends the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 to narrow that eligibility and prevent migrants paroled into the United States from receiving TANF benefits while preserving eligibility for lawful permanent residents and Cuban refugees.


Rep. Haley Stevens Statement on Horrific Attack on Michigan Synagogue

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to the horrific attack on Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township today, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens issued the following statement:

“Our worst fears came to West Bloomfield today. To the congregants of Temple Israel and Jewish families across our community and beyond, we stand with you in horror of the reality that Jewish Americans confront every time they enter a place of worship, attend a community event, or gather with loved ones.

“Michiganders’ lives were saved today by the heroism of security officials on site and the speed of Oakland County’s first responders. Thanks to their bravery and quick actions, Temple Israel’s congregants, staff, and students are alive and safe tonight in their homes. Our community forever owes a debt to the men and women who kept this synagogue safe, and we all send our prayers to the wounded security guard who is recovering in the hospital.

“It should not be like this. Jewish families should never have to fear gathering at a synagogue, sending their children to religious school, or simply practicing their faith. Americans should not have to be surrounded by armed guards every time they pray.

“It is no longer enough for our leaders to condemn antisemitism. It must be rooted out everywhere. There are things Congress can and must do legislatively—first and foremost, funding every effort we can to keep the Jewish community safe and protect houses of worship—but we must also commit to ending the scourge of antisemitism in every community.

“Enough is enough. The congregants of Temple Israel deserve better.”

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Rep. Stevens Introduces Bill to Crack Down on Corporate Utilities, Protect Michigan Families from Rising Electricity Bills

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Haley Stevens (MI-11) introduced the Stop Unfair Electricity Prices Act, legislation aimed at holding investor-owned utility companies accountable and protecting Michigan families from rising electricity costs while executives and shareholders reap significant profits. The bill penalizes any rate hikes that happened after January 1, 2026, meaning this legislation would actively cut Michigan families’ energy bills.

Over the past two decades, Michigan’s electricity rates have outpaced inflation and risen faster than in 46 other states. In that time, the average Michigan family has seen their annual electricity bill skyrocket by roughly $850.

Corporate utilities continue to raise costs on Michiganders while reporting strong profits and awarding massive compensation packages to their executives. In 2024, Michigan’s two largest corporate utilities paid more than $10 million each to their CEOs. Despite record profits, one of those utilities is now asking state regulators to approve yet another massive rate hike on Michigan families after recently raising rates.

The Stop Unfair Electricity Prices Act would give Michigan families a reprieve on electricity rate hikes for three years by imposing significant penalties on investor-owned utilities that raise rates:

If they raise residential rates in year one, they lose their federal funding.

If they raise residential rates in years two or three, they must cut executive pay by twice the percentage of the rate increase or lose their federal funding.

“Michigan families are paying more and more for electricity, yet too many are getting worse service in return,” said Rep. Stevens. “While hardworking Michigan families struggle to afford higher bills, corporate executives are getting richer off their backs. That is unacceptable. This legislation makes clear that if utilities want access to federal taxpayer dollars, they must put Michigan consumers first.”

Text of the bill is available here.

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Rep. Sykes Hosts “Tea Time with Sykes” to Hear Directly from Women in Ohio’s 13 Congressional District

AKRON, OHIO — Democratic Women’s Caucus Vice Chair U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) hosted “Tea Time with Sykes” on Thursday, a private conversation with women from Ohio’s 13th Congressional District as part of the DWC’s “Conversations Across America” series for Women’s History Month.

The event gave attendees, including members of Akron’s Black Nurses Association and the Black Social Workers of Summit County, a chance to share their stories, voice concerns, and hear how Rep. Sykes is working to protect women’s rights, lower costs, and strengthen communities. A portion of the conversation focused on healthcare access, affordability, and equity.

“Women’s voices need to be at the table when decisions are being made,” said Rep. Sykes. “I’m grateful for the chance to listen, learn, and talk about how we can make healthcare more accessible and support families across our communities.”

The conversation also highlighted the power of local engagement, connecting women leaders and professionals across the district to build networks, amplify community voices, and ensure that policies reflect the needs of everyday Ohioans.


Congressman Shri Thanedar Introduces Resolution to Censure Andy Ogles for his Hateful Bigotry

Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13) introduced a resolution to censure Congressman Andy Ogles for spewing hatred and bigotry toward Muslim Americans and disrespecting America’s diversity. The resolution would also remove Ogles from the Homeland Security Committee, of which both he and Thanedar are members.

Ogles, a Congressman long known for his racist rhetoric, recently tweeted, “Muslims don't belong in American society,” “Pluralism is a lie,” and “Muslims are unable to assimilate; they all have to go back.

“Congressman Ogles' disgusting and bigoted words have no place anywhere in our country, let alone from a member of Congress,” said Congressman Shri Thanedar. “His words incite hatred against millions of Muslim Americans. They disrespect the values of freedom of religion that our country was founded upon and are fundamentally un-American. I’m introducing a resolution to censure him for his disgraceful remarks, and I encourage all of my colleagues to join me in standing up against bigotry and hatred.”

Ogles has a history of bigoted rhetoric, and Congressman Thanedar has a history of standing up against it. In June of last year, Ogles repeatedly referred to Zohran Mamdani as “Little Muhammad” and urged Donald Trump to deport him. In response, Congressman Thanedar introduced a resolution to censure Ogles for those remarks.

The full text of the resolution is available here.

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

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Tlaib Introduces Bill to Protect Whistleblowers and Journalists

DETROIT – Today, Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) introduced the Daniel Ellsberg Press Freedom and Whistleblower Protection Act to reform the Espionage Act to prevent its use and abuse against whistleblowers, journalists, and the American public for exposing government corruption and wrongdoing. Such Espionage Act prosecutions have been used to silence dissent and undermine government transparency and are a clear violation of the First Amendment and the fundamental right to due process.

This legislation is named in honor of the late Daniel Ellsberg, the celebrated whistleblower who bravely exposed government lies about the Vietnam War with the Pentagon Papers and faced charges under the Espionage Act. Prior to his passing in 2023, Ellsberg provided public support for these proposed legislative reforms when Congresswoman Tlaib introduced them as an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act.

“Alerting the public to government wrongdoing is not a crime,” said Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib. “The Espionage Act has been abused by administrations of both parties to target whistleblowers and journalists for sharing critically important information with the public. With whistleblowers, journalists, and civil liberties under significant attack and government decision-making shrouded in increasing secrecy, reining in the abuses of the Espionage Act could not be more urgent.”

Since its adoption in 1917, the Espionage Act has been used to persecute and criminalize political dissent, free speech, and the actions of whistleblowers working with the media to alert the American people about government lies about the Vietnam War, mass surveillance, torture, drone assassinations, and war crimes in Iraq and Afghanistan. Under recent U.S. administrations, use of the Espionage Act to prosecute media sources and whistleblowers acting in the public interest has expanded dramatically, with high-profile charges against figures such as Chelsea Manning, Edward Snowden, Daniel Hale, and Julian Assange producing a chilling effect for journalists and potential whistleblowers. In January, the FBI raided the home of a Washington Post reporter in connection to an Espionage Act prosecution of a government whistleblower.

The Daniel Ellsberg Press Freedom and Whistleblower Protection Act would reform the Espionage Act to protect whistleblowers and prevent the law’s use against journalists, publishers, and members of the general public. It accomplishes this by:

Limiting the scope of the Espionage Act to government employees with a legal duty to protect classified information and foreign agents. This would prevent the use of the law against publishers, journalists, or members of the general public.

Increasing due process standards and safeguards for whistleblowers who alert the public to wrongdoing, war crimes, and other abuses of power by creating an affirmative public interest defense and requiring the government prove that a defendant acted with the specific intent to harm the United States or benefit a foreign power.

“For almost 110 years, the Espionage Act has cast a shadow over our First Amendment,” said Chip Gibbons, Policy Director at Defending Rights & Dissent. “From its inception, the law has been used to stifle public debate and has become the go to weapon against whistleblowers and now journalists. Public servants who witness egregious crimes like torture, mass surveillance of Americans, or the killing of civilians, and seek to alert the American people about them are whistleblowers. Yet, using the Espionage Act the government prosecutes them as though they were spies. And with the government going further, and prosecuting a journalist under the Espionage Act, the threat not just to press freedom, but to our very democracy, posed by this antiquated law is growing. Rep. Tlaib’s bill is desperately needed as it is well past time to bring the Espionage Act in line with the First Amendment.”

“For too long, presidential administrations of both parties have weaponized the outdated Espionage Act to criminalize the whistleblowers and journalists who expose government wrongdoing,” said Lauren Harper, the Daniel Ellsberg Chair on Government Secrecy at Freedom of the Press Foundation. “Representative Tlaib’s bill finally brings this law in line with essential First Amendment protections, ensuring it can no longer be used as a cudgel against the free press. This legislation rightly prioritizes the public’s right to know over baseless, self-serving secrecy claims.”

“For too long the Espionage Act has been used to persecute and silence whistleblowers, journalists and publishers,” said Jenna Leventoff, Senior Policy Counsel, American Civil Liberties Union. “But journalism is not a crime – it is a First Amendment protected activity that protects our democracy by allowing the public to hold our nation’s leaders to account. Amending the Espionage Act to protect reporters will mean that the government could no longer abuse this law to silence those sharing information that is beneficial to the public. We thank Rep. Tlaib for working to protect the First Amendment.”

This legislation is cosponsored by Representatives Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Summer Lee (PA-12), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), and Shri Thanedar (MI-13).

This legislation is endorsed by American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Amnesty International USA, Center for Constitutional Rights, Coalition for Women in Journalism, Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), Defending Rights & Dissent, Demand Progress, Ellsberg Initiative for Peace and Democracy, Fight for the Future, Freedom of the Press Foundation, Government Information Watch, Just Foreign Policy, Project on Government Oversight (POGO), Radio Television Digital News Association, Reporters Without Borders, Restore the Fourth, RootsAction, Society of Environmental Journalists, Society of Professional Journalists, Whistleblower & Source Protection Program (WHISPeR) at ExposeFacts, and X-Lab.

The full text of the legislation can be found here.

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ICYMI: Leader Hakeem Jeffries Joins U.S. Representative Derek Tran for Roundtable Discussion with Veterans, Local Leaders

Buena Park, CA – In case you missed it, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08) joined U.S. Representatives Derek Tran (CA-45) and Lou Correa (CA-46), local elected officials, and community representatives from Veteran service organizations (VSOs) for a discussion about the Trump Administration’s broken promises to care for those who have served our country. The lawmakers heard the unique challenges facing Veterans and service members, and highlighted their efforts to support troops in Orange County and across the country.

WATCH

“This Administration is failing our Veterans. Thousands of Veteran federal employees have been wrongfully fired. Critical VA benefits and services have been gutted. And now President Trump is threatening another forever war in the Middle East,” said Representative Tran. “When our service members come home, they shouldn’t be facing long wait times, delayed benefits, and broken promises. Their families shouldn’t be left wondering if they’re going to have health insurance or a roof over their head. Our Veterans deserve more than our words of gratitude – they deserve action and support.”

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“The Trump administration chose right out of the gate to go after the VA, to fire thousands of veterans who were part of the federal workforce and to cut back services our veterans depend on to live their lives as civilians with the dignity and respect that they deserve. Shame on Donald Trump for engaging in that type of egregious behavior while pretending as though his administration is standing up to cherish our veterans,” said Leader Jeffries. “House Democrats know our most significant, sacred responsibility is to make sure that we are taking care of the veterans who have taken care of America. We will continue to fight hard to lower the high cost of living, fix our broken healthcare system and ensure that veterans are able to receive their hard-earned benefits.”

“Servicemembers, veterans, and their families have made major sacrifices for our country, and the federal government has an obligation to take care of them. Recent events—including ICE’s inhumane deportations and arrests of veterans and their families—have shown the federal government is not fulfilling that obligation, and we need to demand better,” said Representative Correa. “I am optimistic that Gypsum Canyon, Orange County’s first veterans cemetery, received bipartisan support in getting approval, and I appreciate Leader Jeffries’ supporting our Orange County veterans.”

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The discussion focused on topics including:

Efforts by Representative Tran, Representative Correa, and California State Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva (D-Fullerton) to advance construction of the Veteran Cemetery at Gypsum Canyon and the profound impact its completion would have on Orange County’s community of over 100,000 Veterans.

The effects of funding cuts to critical Veteran benefits and services, from health care to academic, personal, and professional support for student Veterans at on-campus Veteran Resource Centers.

Efforts to deliver justice for Veterans and their families who have been wrongfully targeted by ICE.

President Trump’s war in Iran, without consultation from Congress, which has already resulted in the death of seven American service members and the injury of over 140 service members.

An Army Veteran, Representative Tran is dedicated to expanding protections and benefits for Veterans in Washington. The first bill Tran introduced in Congress was H.R. 1637, the Protect Veteran Jobs Act, to restore the livelihoods of Veterans wrongfully fired from their civil service positions. In September 2025, Tran’s bipartisanDelivering Digitally for our Veterans Act, which aims to streamline the administration of Veterans’ educational benefits through the G.I. Bill,unanimously passed the House. Tran has also been avocal advocate of Orange County’s first-ever Veteran cemetery at Gypsum Canyon, and signed two letters urging federal support for its construction.

Following offensive U.S. military actions against Iran conducted without Congressional oversight in February 2026, Tran voted in favor of a Congressional war powers resolution reaffirming that Congress, not the executive branch, reserves the right to declare war.

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Congressman Derek Tran represents California’s 45th Congressional District. Serving his first term in Congress, Congressman Tran is a member of the House Armed Services Committee and House Small Business Committee, where he is Ranking Member of the Oversight, Investigations, and Regulations Subcommittee. Congressman Tran is the son of Vietnamese refugees, a Veteran, and fought for consumers as an attorney before entering Congress.


Representative Tran Brings Over $3 Million to Cerritos for Del Amo Bridge Boulevard Renovations

Cerritos, CA – U.S. Representative Derek Tran (CA-45) presented Cerritos Mayor Frank Aurelio Yokoyama and Members of the Cerritos City Council with a check for $3,150,000 in federal Community Project Funding. Representative Tran secured this funding to renovate the Del Amo Boulevard Bridge, a major thoroughfare serving thousands of LA and Orange County residents, to improve pedestrian safety and reduce congestion.

“Investing in critical infrastructure for the City of Cerritos is an investment in our future. It’s a commitment to our families and our communities,” said Representative Tran. “The Del Amo Boulevard Bridge serves thousands of families every day across Orange and LA Counties – helping our neighbors get to work and school. I’m proud to say that because of the dedication of local leaders here in Cerritos, we have taken a major step toward building the infrastructure our community deserves.”

“The City of Cerritos is committed to providing safe and reliable public infrastructure. We are proud to partner with Representative Tran and are incredibly thankful for his work in securing $3.15 million toward the renovation of the Del Amo Boulevard bridge,” said Mayor Yokoyama. “Upon completion, Cerritos residents, businesses, and visitors will enjoy improved traffic flow and access along the Del Amo Boulevard bridge.”

The Del Amo Boulevard Bridge runs east to west through LA and Orange Counties, connecting the communities of Cerritos, Lakewood, La Palma, and Cypress. The federal dollars Representative Tran fought for will go toward:

Realigning the Del Amo Boulevard Bridge to reduce road hazards for the thousands of motorists, public transportation users, and pedestrians it serves daily;

Widening the bridge to accommodate four lanes of travel and reduce traffic jams; and

Enhancing pedestrian and bicycle access to improve safety for non-motorist commuters.

This funding is part of an over $14 million package Representative Tran is bringing back to LA and Orange Counties across 15 community projects that will make life safer, healthier, and easier for Southern California residents.

Through Community Project Funding (CPF), Members of Congress can request direct funding for specific local projects that benefit the communities they represent. The House Appropriations Committee considers up to 15 Community Project Funding requests from each member of Congress, and, once approved by the House and Senate and signed into law by the President, community projects are funded using federal tax revenue. Community Project Funding is subject to strict public transparency and accountability requirements, only available to nonprofit and government entities (for-profit grantees are not eligible), and must demonstrate evidence of compelling community support. In addition, each Member of Congress must certify in writing that there is no financial interest in the project for them and their immediate family. All projects will be audited by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to ensure sound stewardship of taxpayer dollars.

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Congressman Derek Tran represents California’s 45th Congressional District. Serving his first term in Congress, Congressman Tran is a member of the House Armed Services Committee and House Small Business Committee, where he is Ranking Member of the Oversight, Investigations, and Regulations Subcommittee. Congressman Tran is the son of Vietnamese refugees, a Veteran, and fought for consumers as an attorney before entering Congress.


Valadao, Levin Take Action to Fight Against Dangerous Drug-Resistant Diseases

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Congressman Mike Levin (CA-49) in reintroducing the Saving Us from Pandemic Era Resistance by Building a Unified Global Strategy (SUPER BUGS) Act. This bipartisan bill would help prepare for future pandemics by directing the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), in consultation with the Department of State, to coordinate with foreign countries and other entities on the development and commercialization of new antimicrobial drugs, diagnostics, and other products to fight the global spread of pathogens resistant to treatment, also called “superbugs.” In the Central Valley, Valley Fever is a superbug that is resistant to antifungal treatment and has become more common in recent years.

“In the Central Valley, we see firsthand the growing threat of superbugs like Valley Fever, which are becoming harder to treat,” said Congressman Valadao. “The bipartisan SUPER BUGS Act strengthens coordination with our international partners to accelerate new treatments and tools to combat drug-resistant pathogens, and I’m proud to partner with Congressman Levin to help prevent the next global pandemic.”

“There is scientific consensus on the fact that our world will experience another global pandemic, and the next one is likely to be connected to antimicrobial resistance. It’s not a matter of if it will happen, it’s a matter of when,” said Rep. Levin. “In order to protect Americans and people across the world, we need international cooperation and a global strategy to fight superbugs that have become resistant to modern medicine. Our bill would direct the development of drugs and other products to fight superbugs by entering into partnerships with other countries and multilateral organizations. I thank Rep. Valadao for his partnership on this bill and look forward to it moving through the legislative process quickly.”

Supporting organizations include the American Society of Microbiology, Global Health Technologies Coalition, American Public Health Association, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Infectious Diseases Society of America, Sepsis Alliance, Treatment Action Group, and IAVI.

Background:

Antimicrobials—including antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitic medicines—are essential tools used to prevent and treat infections. However, the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance is making many of these treatments less effective. As bacteria and other pathogens evolve to withstand existing drugs, infections that were once easily treatable are becoming increasingly difficult to manage.

In the United States alone, antibiotic-resistant bacteria infect at least 2.8 million people each year and cause more than 35,000 deaths. Despite the rising threat, the pipeline for new antimicrobial drugs remains limited. Because antimicrobial medicines are typically intended for short-term use, they often generate lower long-term revenue compared with drugs for chronic conditions, making them less attractive investments for pharmaceutical developers.

As of December 2018, there were 42 antibiotics in the global clinical development pipeline. Of those, only 11 were being developed to target “superbugs” identified on the World Health Organization’s critical threat list, highlighting a significant gap between the growing public health need and the pace of new drug development.

Read the bill here.


Reps. Van Epps, Kiggans, Tokuda Introduce Legislation to Double Gold Star Family Bridge Payment

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Reps. Matt Van Epps (TN-07), Jen Kiggans (VA-02), and Jill Tokuda (HI-02) introduced the bipartisan Honoring Our Nation’s Obligation to Remember (HONOR) Gold Star Families Act. This legislation doubles the military “death gratuity” or bridge payment from $100,000 to $200,000 for the families of fallen servicemembers and also includes a cost-of-living adjustment so future payments take inflation into account. In light of the deaths of seven servicemembers in the Middle East following Operation Epic Fury, the legislation also applies retroactively to the beginning of 2026 to ensure those families receive the enhanced benefit.

Rep. Van Epps, who served in Iraq and Afghanistan during the War on Terror, said, “While we hope for the safety of our servicemembers who willingly put themselves in harm’s way, we must ensure that when tragedy strikes, our nation stands fully behind the families left behind. Unfortunately, the bridge payment provided to Gold Star families has not been adjusted for inflation in twenty years, leaving grieving families with far less support than they need to rebuild their lives. To put that in perspective, $100 in 2006 has the buying power of roughly $160 today. As one Gold Star wife recently told me, ‘Your bills don’t get cut in half when you lose your spouse.’ Her words were a stark reminder of the difficult reality many Gold Star families face in the wake of unimaginable loss.”

“When a family receives a gold star on their service flag, it is both a reminder of the pride in your loved one’s sacrifice and a reminder of tremendous loss. There is no response great enough to express the gratitude of our nation for this sacrifice, but giving these families the financial help they need is a strong first step,” he concluded.

Congresswoman Kiggans said, “Our Gold Star families have felt the greatest form of pain and suffering in losing a loved one in service to our country. When a servicemember makes the ultimate sacrifice, we have the solemn obligation to ensure their families are supported and able to move forward with stability and dignity. I’m proud to join Rep. Van Epps in this effort to double the military death gratuity and provide our fallen heroes’ families with the immediate financial support they deserve during such a difficult time.”

“Freedom is never free, and Gold Star families have already paid the highest price. Our commitment as a nation to them must be as steady as their sacrifice. That means ensuring the support they have been promised keeps pace with the cost of living,” said Rep. Tokuda. “I’m proud to join Rep. Van Epps in leading this bill to honor our obligation to the families who have given so much for our country.”

This legislation was endorsed by the Gold Star Mothers. American Gold Star Mothers President, Annette Kirk stated, “Congressman Van Epps' intent with this proposed legislation is to strengthen immediate support for survivors, and we support that as well. …[T]he standard gratuity of $100,000 has not been updated since FY2006 and the increase to $200,000 for fallen families of servicemembers is needed at this time. This bill, which allows for annual protection through an automatic cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to ensure the benefit never again loses real value over time, is key to Gold Star Families. Please accept this letter as our wholehearted support for the ‘Honoring Our Nation’s Obligation to Remember Gold Star Families Act.’”

The Gold Star Wives also endorsed this legislation. “The HONOR Gold Star Families Act is so important for the families of the Military members who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The $100,000 amount established in 2006 without cost of living adjustments has lost much of its buying power. The wives and husbands left behind need funds to address their families’ needs as they transition from being a couple with hopes and dreams to a military survivor. Ensuring the amount will rise as inflation rises, will keep the benefit current without requiring annual legislative action. Thank you Representative Van Epps for introducing this important legislation,” said Gold Star Wives of America National President Dr. Nancy Peppers.

This legislation was also endorsed by the Military Veterans Advocacy. Board Executive Director Commander John B. Wells U.S. Navy (retired) stated, “The United States must be gracious and compensate to the extent possible for the loss of a loved one in the military service. The death gratuity was fixed at $100,000 in 2006, that is no longer appropriate. While it is impossible to compensate someone for the death of a loved one, we must make every effort to assist our Gold Star families in taking care of their immediate needs.”

The National Guard Association of the United States also endorsed the legislation. “For too long, the military death gratuity has failed to keep pace with inflation, shortchanging those families who have sacrificed the most,” said retired Maj Gen. Francis M. McGinn, NGAUS president. “This legislation restores that promise and ensures Gold Star Families receive the immediate, meaningful compensation they deserve and that our nation’s commitment never again loses its value. NGAUS thanks Representatives Van Epps, Kiggans, and Tokuda for bringing this bill forward. It has our full endorsement and support.”

Original cosponsors: Reps. Jen Kiggans (VA-02), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), John Rose (TN-06), Tim Burchett (TN-02), William Timmons (SC-04), Pat Harrigan (NC-10), Derrek Van Orden (WI-03), Jake Ellzey (TX-06), Sanford Bishop (GA-02), Don Davis (NC-01), and John James (MI-10)

Read the exclusive from Emily Hallas in the Washington Examiner here

Read the legislation here.

Read the one-pager here.

Background:

This legislation


Rep. Gabe Vasquez Pushes to Ban Public Officials From Insider Trading on Prediction Markets

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On March 12, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) continued his push to hold Washington accountable and cosponsored a bill to ban public officials from insider trading on prediction markets. The Public Integrity in Financial Prediction Markets Act addresses flagrant corruption that allows government employees to use insider information for personal gain on prediction markets. The bill bans the use of prediction markets for any federal employees who may be able to profit from their position and access to government information through betting or trading.

“Enough with the corruption and deception in Washington D.C. Public servants need to get back to serving the public, not advancing their own interests,” said Vasquez. “No government official’s actions should be influenced by personal profit from unregulated prediction markets — that goes against what we stand for as a democracy. I didn’t come to Congress to get rich, and nobody should. This bill restores trust in government and puts Americans first.”

This latest legislative push builds on Rep. Vasquez’s long record of working to hold Washington accountable and protect a safe and fair gaming industry:

Rep. Vasquez is leading the bipartisan effort to ban members of congress and their families from trading stocks. He introduced H.R. 396, the TRUST in Congress Act to ban this trading and also supported two bipartisan efforts, including a discharge petition to force a vote on the House floor. These efforts continue to be blocked by House Republican leadership.

Rep. Vasquez recently secured a promise from the Agriculture Committee to address how prediction markets continue to operate unregulated sports betting, violating Tribal sovereignty and taking revenue from New Mexico.

Vasquez is one of the few Members of Congress that does not own stocks and continues to fight efforts by the D.C. elites to enrich themselves.

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Wasserman Schultz Delivers $1 Million Federal Investment to Support Dania Beach’s Wastewater System.

Dania Beach, FL – This week, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) joined Dania Beach Commissioners to announce a $1 million federal investment to improve the city’s wastewater system and strengthen the community’s marine and boat industries.

This investment will replace and modernize Lift Station No.12 to improve wastewater flow and reduce risk of backups and systems failures.

“I’m proud to deliver these federal dollars to improve Broward’s marine industry and bring more jobs and business opportunities to South Florida,” said Wasserman Schultz. “I’ll always work to invest in local infrastructure to prevent contamination, preserves marine ecosystems, and keep our canals and coastal waters healthy.”

Wastewater lift stations are specialized, underground pumping systems designed to lift sewage from lower to higher elevations. Dania Beach’s Lift Station 12 was constructed in 1986, making it one of the older lift stations around, it faces electrical issues and shuts off during storms. This project will ensure the infrastructure can handle current demands while preparing for future growth, protect our waterways, and keep hundreds of Floridians employed.

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Rep. Watson Coleman Introduces Bill to Support Service Members with Traction Alopecia

Today, Representatives Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), and Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) reintroduced the Recognition of Traction Alopecia in Service Women Act, legislation that would support and expand medical coverage of traction alopecia in the military.

In order to maintain a professional appearance and to adhere to military grooming standards, many servicewomen use tight hairstyles and chemical hair products that contribute to permanent damage to the hair and scalp. The use of military headgear can also exacerbate and/or cause permanent damage.

The Recognition of Traction Alopecia in Service Women Act would amend U.S. Code 1074 C to add traction alopecia and wigs as a covered medical treatment under TRICARE, the uniformed services health care program for active duty service members. It would also direct the Secretary of Defense to create regulations and training materials warning of the risk of traction alopecia.

“I am grateful to our service members who regularly put their lives on the line to defend the country they love,” said Watson Coleman. “When their service causes them harm, as in the case of scalp damage, we have a duty to help make them whole and warn them of the risks.”

“Millions of women servicemembers risk their lives every day to protect and defend our nation, and we owe them a debt of gratitude,” said McClellan. “Yet current military appearance standards fail to account for the unique challenges women face in meeting compliance. Black women in particular often go out of their way to meet these standards, many of which remain incompatible with their natural hair. I’m joining Rep. Watson Coleman to introduce the Recognition of Traction Alopecia in Service Women Act to raise awareness of traction alopecia and ensure that our servicewomen are no longer forced to choose between meeting grooming standards and protecting their health.”

“Our servicemen and women make many personal sacrifices in defense of our nation—permanent hair damage and scalp health should not have to be one of them,” said Rep. Pressley. “Women, and Black women in particular, experience traction alopecia and hair loss due to the tight hairstyles and dangerous chemical products needed to meet military grooming standards. I’m proud to join Reps. Watson Coleman and McClellan in leading legislation that will support coverage for those suffering from traction alopecia and allow millions of servicewomen to protect their natural hair and promote scalp health.”


Reps. Bonnie Watson Coleman, Young Kim, and Debbie Wasserman Schultz Lead Girl Scouts Day Resolution

Today, Girl Scouts’ Troop Capitol Hill Co-Chairs Reps. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Reps. Young Kim (CA-40), and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) introduced a bipartisan resolution to recognize March 12, 2026 as Girl Scouts Day on its 114th founding anniversary to celebrate the tremendous impact this organization has had on countless young women and girls over time.

The resolution:

Celebrates Girl Scouts of the USA’s 114 years of inspiring and supporting girls’ leadership development;

Congratulates Girl Scouts who earned the Gold Award in 2025;

Encourages Girl Scouts to develop the skills of future leaders;

Reflects upon the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and how the Girl Scouts is an important part of the American story;

And marks the 100th World Thinking Day, an annual celebration hosted by the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts.

Girl Scouts across the country and around the world participate in various activities and service projects throughout the week of March 8 to March 14. Girl Scout Week is a way for current Girl Scouts to honor the trailblazers who came before them, give them a sense of history, and inspire them to be the best they can be. It’s a tradition that reminds them they belong to a big, powerful sisterhood.

“For 114 years, Girl Scouts of the USA has offered young women and girls an opportunity to make new friends, learn important skills, build confidence, and become upstanding citizens,” said Watson Coleman. “The Girl Scouts are about so much more than the cookies — although they are delicious — and I’m so grateful for all the good work they do for communities across the country.”

“As a former Girl Scout and troop leader for my daughters, I have seen firsthand how Girl Scouts helps young women across the nation build confidence, learn practical skills, and grow into strong leaders ready to take on the world,” said Kim. “It is vital that we recognize and celebrate Girl Scouts for providing an environment where girls can dream big and lead with courage. Through programs like these, the next generation of women can pursue their aspirations and succeed in the classroom, the workplace, and the halls of government around the world.”

“From promoting a supportive space for girls to grow and explore to increasing girls’ involvement in STEM and financial literacy, the Girl Scouts create future leaders America needs. I'm honored to be a Troop Capitol Hill Co-Chair and wholeheartedly support their efforts to lift our next generation of girls, including through this year’s 100th World Thinking Day,” said Wasserman Schultz. “For 114 years, Girl Scouts has developed the next generation of leaders. I'm proud to co-lead today’s Resolution on behalf of their pivotal work.”

“Girl Scouts of the USA is honored that our Troop Capitol Hill co-chairs in the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives are recognizing the incredible milestone of 114 years of Girl Scouting and the important place our Movement holds in America’s story,” said Bonnie Barczykowski CEO of Girl Scouts of the USA. “Girl Scouts’ legacy of building girls of courage, confidence, and character can be seen in more than 50 million trailblazing women throughout history who, as Girl Scouts, discovered the power within themselves to create lasting change in their communities, our country, and the world. Thank you to all the co-sponsors of this resolution for honoring our Movement’s contributions to American history and for celebrating today’s Girl Scouts, who are shaping our country’s future.”

A companion bill is being introduced by Senator Tammy Duckworth of Illinois.

“I still use the leadership skills that I developed in the Girl Scouts as a young woman in my daily life,” said Duckworth. “For 114 years, Girl Scouts of America has instilled the values of service and how to always ‘be prepared’ in generations of girls, empowering them to lead wherever they go—in business, science, public service and beyond. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution to commemorate and honor this historic organization.”

The resolution is cosponsored in the House of Representatives by Reps. Betty McCollum (MN-04), Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), and Yvette Clarke (NY-09).

The resolution is cosponsored in the Senate by Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NM), John Barrasso (R-WY), Angus King (I-ME) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH).


Wittman, Virginia Republicans Send Letter Raising Alarm Over Political Interference at Virginia Military Institute

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) joined Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02), Congressman John McGuire (VA-05), Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06), and Congressman Morgan Griffith (VA-09) in sending a letter to President Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to share their continued concern about legislation advanced by the Virginia General Assembly that would restructure the governance of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and establish a legislative task force to examine, evaluate, and potentially recommend changes to its military training model, governance framework, and officer-producing role — asserting political control over the institution.

“At a time when the United States faces increasing global threats when a stronger, larger military is more important than ever, weakening VMI, one of the nation’s premier leadership development institutions, sends the wrong signal,” said Rep. Wittman. “Measures targeting VMI’s governance raise serious concerns about politicizing a historic military institution that plays a critical role in developing leaders for our Armed Forces. I will continue to stand firmly against any attempt to politicize or diminish VMI’s mission.”

Background:

For nearly two centuries, VMI has produced military officers, public servants, and principled leaders who have strengthened both the Commonwealth of Virginia and our nation. That includes the current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, a Korean War Medal of Honor recipient, and even former Governor Northam. This oversight insinuates that VMI doesn’t provide effective leaders to the U.S. military, which is patently false. Its contribution to our Armed Forces and our national security infrastructure is real and measurable. If improvements are needed, those conversations should be serious, measured, and mission-focused. Instead, what we are seeing is an attempt to weaken VMI’s independent governance and impose political control.


ALSOBROOKS VOTES YES ON ROAD TO HOUSING ACT

March 12, 2026

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), member of the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, voted to pass the Renewing Opportunity in the American Dream (ROAD) to Housing Act. She issued the following statement after the vote:

“In a town known for gridlock, the bipartisan passage of the ROAD to Housing Act is proof of our dire housing crisis. Families are being priced out of homeownership, rent is out of control, and the dream of a stable home is slipping away from too many Americans. And when most Americans see homeownership as one of the clearest paths to building wealth, we should be doing everything in our power to make that dream attainable.

“My parents married young — 21 and 22 — and five years later, they bought a modest home. My father was a car salesman. My mother worked as a receptionist. Now, the average age for homeownership is closer to 40. We need to keep fighting for the generations behind us to do better than we did, not worse.

“The ROAD to Housing Act expands the housing supply, reduces red tape, and makes homeownership more affordable. Today, I passed legislation that will help hardworking Maryland families — and that is worth celebrating.”

Senator Alsobrooks specifically worked on the following pieces of the package:

The Bipartisan Community Investment and Prosperity Act

The Bipartisan Whole-Home Repairs Act

The HOME Investment Partnerships Reauthorization and Improvement Act

The Appraisal Modernization Act

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Baldwin, Colleagues Demand Trump Officials Publicly Testify About War in Iran

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) joined Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) in demanding that Republican Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) hold immediate public hearings on the Trump Administration’s ongoing unconstitutional war in Iran. This follows the Senators’ move to file War Powers Resolutions to stop President Donald Trump’s illegal and unnecessary war. The Senators made plain they will use these resolutions to force debate and additional votes if Republican leadership does not move swiftly to arrange public committee hearings with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.

"Already, oil and gas prices are spiking, the prices of basic goods are increasing, and the U.S. is spending billions of dollars on this war, rather than focusing on reducing costs here at home. The Trump administration must answer questions publicly under oath in front of the American people, not just behind closed doors. Without public hearings, this work period, we will pursue other options for ensuring timely public debate on the Senate floor," the Senators write in their letter to Thune.

It has been thirteen days since President Trump chose to launch his war with Iran that has resulted in the death of at least seven U.S. servicemembers. Yet the Senate Foreign Relations and Armed Services Committees have yet to announce or hold a single public hearing to receive testimony from the Secretaries of State or Defense under oath.

The resolutions—which would not prevent the U.S. from defending itself or Israel from an Iranian attack—are privileged, meaning they can be brought to the Senate floor for a vote by any senator after ten calendar days.

Immediately following the initial strikes on Iran, Senator Baldwin released a statement condemning this unauthorized military action and demanding that President Trump come to Congress before launching the United States into another potentially open-ended war. Senator Baldwin also took to the Senate floor in support of a War Powers Resolution to rein in this President. Additionally, Senator Baldwin co-sponsors the No War Against Iran Act to prohibit the use of federal funds for any use of military force in or against Iran without specific Congressional authorization.

Read the full letter here.

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