Riley Secures Major Wins for Upstate Communities in 2026 Farm Bill

Bill includes Riley’s provisions to block foreign purchases of US farmland, save lives by improving tractor safety, support family dairy farms, and more.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Josh Riley announced a series of wins for Upstate New York farmers and rural communities after the House Agriculture Committee passed the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, sending the legislation to the full House of Representatives.

“Our farmers are the heart and soul of rural Upstate New York. They’re the very best of who we are. Up before dawn in the freezing cold to milk the cows. Out in the heat with the sun beating down to pick the apples. No excuses. No complaints. No days off. Nobody works harder. And they don’t ask for a hell of a lot in return, just a fair shot to make a decent living doing work that’s often been in the family for generations. This Farm Bill delivers on that promise, and I’m tremendously proud of what we were able to get done for Upstate farmers.” – Rep. Josh Riley

Riley represents 4,547 farms across nearly one million acres in Upstate New York, the vast majority family-owned operations that form the backbone of rural communities across the region.

During the committee’s markup of the Farm Bill, Riley secured a number of provisions focused on farm safety, supporting dairy and organic farmers, lowering costs, strengthening local food systems, and protecting American farmland.

KEY RILEY WINS FOR UPSTATE FARMS AND RURAL COMMUNITIES:

National ROPS Rebate Program (H.R. 6944 — adopted as amendment in Title 12)

Tractor rollovers are one of the leading causes of death in agriculture. This creates a USDA rebate program to help farmers retrofit tractors with rollover protection systems.

Modernizing the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act (H.R. 1920 — included in the bill, Secs. 12301–12304)

Strengthens oversight of foreign purchases of American farmland and improves reporting requirements so policymakers know when foreign entities acquire U.S. agricultural land.

Dairy Nutrition Incentive Program + Yogurt Amendment (H.R. 2496 — included in the bill, Sec. 4305; amendment adopted)

Helps families afford healthy dairy products while supporting demand for dairy farmers. Riley secured an amendment to include yogurt, expanding markets for dairy producers.

Organic Integrity Reform (amendment adopted)

Protects the integrity of organic labeling while cutting unnecessary red tape for small organic farms.

Organic Dairy Data Collection Act (H.R. 4110 — included in the bill, Sec. 10104)

Improves USDA data collection on organic dairy production so farmers and cooperatives have better information about market conditions.

Local Farmers Feeding Our Communities Program (H.R. 4782 — included in the bill, Sec. 4306)

Helps farmers sell more food locally by connecting farms with nearby buyers like schools, food banks, and community food programs.

LEAPS Act (H.R. 3979 — adopted via amendment)

Directs USDA to publish information on irrigation pumping upgrades that can lower electricity use and reduce energy costs for farmers.

You See It, You Squish It Act (H.R. 5614 — adopted via amendment)

Targets the spread of the spotted lanternfly, an invasive pest threatening vineyards, orchards, and other crops across the Northeast.

ADDITIONAL RILEY PROVISIONS IN THE BILL:

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Congresswoman Ross Statement on Kristi Noem

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) released the following statement on President Trump firing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem:

“Kristi Noem has been a disaster for North Carolina. Our state and our country are better off with her gone.

“Noem personally withheld disaster aid from communities still struggling to rebuild more than a year after Hurricane Helene. Families, small business, and local governments across Western North Carolina have been begging for her help while she prioritizes photo-ops and authorizes millions of dollars for private jets.

“Under Noem’s orders, ICE and CBP terrorized the people of North Carolina, focusing on Charlotte and Raleigh. Under her watch, federal immigration agents detained and killed American citizens, separated children and families, and spread fear in our communities.

“Yesterday, during a House Judiciary Committee hearing, we witnessed Noem’s pathetic attempts to defend these indefensible actions and policies. The nation was reminded of what North Carolina already knows – Krisi Noem was out of her depth and out of control. Noem had to go.

“While I’m relieved to see her fired, I will continue demanding that our next DHS Secretary follow the law, uphold the constitution, and deliver desperately needed aid to Western North Carolina.”

Congresswoman Ross questioned Kristi Noem in a House Judiciary Committee hearing yesterday. To access her full remarks, click here.

To watch or download Congresswoman Ross’s remarks, click here.

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Congresswoman Ross Votes for War Powers Resolution

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) voted for a bipartisan War Powers Resolution to curb President Trump’s use of miliary force in Iran and prevent further military action without congressional authorization.

“The Constitution explicitly gives Congress the authority and heavy responsibility to declare war. President Trump does not have the power to send our nation into war unilaterally.

“In a bipartisan, classified briefing, senior Trump administration officials failed to provide sufficient evidence of an imminent threat to justify this attack and risk the lives of American service members.

“The President has still not made the case for war to Congress or the American people. Trump and his inexperienced Secretary of War have no plan or defined strategy to prevent our country from being dragged into another protracted conflict in the Middle East.

“This War Powers Resolution is a necessary first step to check the President’s abuse of military authority and protect American lives.”

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Rep. Andrea Salinas’ Statement Following Farm Bill Markup

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) issued the following statement following the conclusion of the House Agriculture Committee’s markup of the 2026 Skinny Farm Bill.

“The Farm Bill does not meet the needs of Oregon farmers and families. While I’m glad this bill includes provisions from my Timber Innovation for Building Rural Communities Act and takes initial steps on specialty crops, it does not come close to making up for its serious failures. It reinstates the dangerous and discredited ‘10am’ wildfire suppression policy, fails to restore 800,000 Oregonians with their SNAP benefits, and leaves specialty crop growers behind once again.

“Just as concerning is the way this bill was put together. For decades, the Farm Bill has succeeded because it brought together a broad coalition of support by pairing food assistance with farm programs. That partnership has helped families put food on the table while supporting the farmers who grow it. By stripping key nutrition provisions out of the Farm Bill and gutting them via Republicans’ “Big, Ugly Bill,” Republicans have broken the coalition that has sustained this legislation for generations. That approach weakens this bill and puts all future Farm Bills at risk.

“This bill was written behind closed doors, rushed through a process that shut out the minority, and it shows. The people of Oregon’s Sixth District, from specialty crop growers to SNAP recipients, deserve better, and I will keep fighting until they get it.”

Rep. Salinas also introduced several amendments during the markup aimed at strengthening support for specialty crop growers, rural communities, and the forestry sector. One amendment would remove the statutory cap on Whole-Farm Revenue Protection, allowing specialty crop producers to receive insurance coverage for additional acreage as their farms expand and ensuring they have access to a reliable risk management safety net as natural disasters become more frequent and severe.


Rep. Andrea Salinas’ Statement Following Vote Against DHS Spending Bill

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) issued the following statement following her vote against opposing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) spending bill.

“I voted no on the DHS spending bill. I will not vote to give more money to DHS and ICE while the Administration continues to use these agencies to terrorize communities and undermine due process. Families across Oregon are still struggling with the rising cost of groceries, housing, and health care, but instead of working to lower costs, Congressional Republicans are once again advancing a bill that doubles down on the Trump Administration’s harmful priorities. The American people want lower costs and safe communities—not taxpayer dollars funding abuses at home or costly wars abroad.

“At the same time, despite promising the American people “no new wars.” President Trump has pulled us into a war with Iran. We cannot allow Trump’s war to be used as an excuse to sidestep necessary reforms at DHS.

“Instead of working with Democrats to rein in ICE and CBP operations, Republicans are once again choosing a partisan path that also puts crucial funding for agencies like TSA, FEMA, the Disaster Relief Fund, and the Coast Guard at risk. The American people have made it clear they want accountability and real solutions. Congress should be working together to deliver them.”

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Rep. Salinas Introduces Legislation Cracking Down on Insider Trading in Congress and the White House

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Oregon Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06), alongside Reps. Haley Stevens (MI-11), Derek Tran (CA-45), and Eric Sorensen (D-IL), introduced the No Getting Rich in Congress Act, sweeping legislation to crack down on insider trading in Congress and the White House, restore trust in government, and ensure public service is about serving the American people, not personal profit.

According to the latest polling, Congress’s approval among the American people sits at a near-record low of 17%. Across party lines and generations, voters agree: Washington is broken. Too often, elected officials use their positions to advance their financial interests instead of delivering results for their constituents.

The No Getting Rich in Congress Act establishes strong, enforceable standards to prevent officials from profiting from conflicts of interest and close longstanding loopholes that have undermined confidence in federal leadership.

“Members of Congress, federal officials, and their family members should never be allowed to profit from privileged information,” said Rep. Salinas. “That is why I support this legislative package to create additional guardrails to ban trading by public officials and their families, to regulate any insider influence, and broaden ethics rules so that the people in power are motivated by serving the American people, not personal profit.”

“The American people deserve leaders who are working for them, not for their stock portfolios, not for corporate board seats, and not for foreign adversaries,” said Rep. Haley Stevens. “Michiganders want results from their government, not self-dealing. The No Getting Rich in Congress Act draws a clear line: public servants must put their communities first, not profit.”

“When I’m home in Orange County, I constantly hear from constituents who have lost faith in our government because they’ve watched scandal after scandal plague corrupt politicians. They want to see elected officials working for the people, not for rich donors or foreign governments. Congress can’t wait another day to earn back the public’s trust,” said Rep. Derek Tran. “The No Getting Rich in Congress Act has been shaped by months of work to close every loophole, eliminate every exemption, and find every measure of accountability to put Congress back to work for the people, not their own profits. I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Representative Stevens to not only ban Congressional stock trading, but rein in every practice that puts moneyed interests ahead of our communities. We’re scrapping politics as usual and putting people first.”

"Members of Congress should not be able to use our positions for personal and financial gain. I am cosponsoring the No Getting Rich in Congress Act because it makes long-overdue reforms to increase transparency, strengthen ethics rules, and earn back the American people’s trust. I’m urging every one of my colleagues to join us—because the people we represent deserve to know that we are working for them,” said Rep. Eric Sorensen.

The legislation is also cosponsored by Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-OH).

Key Provisions of the Legislation:

Bans trading by public officials and their families. Prohibits the President, Vice President, Members of Congress, candidates for federal office, spouses, and dependents from buying or selling individual stocks, futures, commodities, and cryptocurrency, with strict reporting and enforcement mechanisms, including penalties for violations.

Prohibits lobbying on behalf of foreign adversaries. Permanently bans former public officials from lobbying on behalf of foreign adversaries, including China, to influence U.S. government decisions.

Closes loopholes and regulates shadow lobbying. Requires spouses of both Members of Congress and senior Administration officials to register and report any effort to influence government decisions, ensuring spouses cannot use public office for personal financial gain.

Restricts corporate board service. Bars Members and their spouses from serving on or being officers of a corporate board, with strict reporting and conduct requirements for any pre-existing board service.

Extends existing ethics rules to spouses and dependents. Applies all gift, travel, and reimbursement restrictions that cover Members to their spouses and dependents, preventing backdoor deals and conflicts of interest.

Full bill text can be found here.

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Scalise: Operation Epic Fury is Making the World Safer

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) appeared on Fox Business Network's Mornings with Maria to discuss President Trump’s decisive action to stop Iran’s nuclear ambitions, the need to support our men and women in uniform, and why Democrats must end their dangerous shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security at a time of rising threats.

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


Rep. Sewell Statement on the Passing of Bernard LaFayette, Civil Rights Activist and Nonviolence Advocate

Washington D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement on the passing of Bernard LaFayette, civil rights activist and nonviolence advocate:

"I am deeply saddened by the passing of Bernard LaFayette, a giant of the Civil Rights Movement and lifelong champion of justice, equality, and nonviolence.

"As a Freedom Rider, co-founder of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), and trusted lieutenant of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Bernard LaFayette’s courage and steadfast commitment to nonviolent social change helped move America closer to its founding promise of liberty and justice for all.

"Through his ministry, scholarship, and leadership, Bernard LaFayette worked to ensure that the principles of justice and peaceful resistance would endure for generations to come.

"My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Kate, as well as his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. May we honor his extraordinary legacy by recommitting ourselves to the work of building that Beloved Community.

"May he Rest in Peace and Power."

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Rep. Sewell Votes for Iran War Powers Resolution

Washington D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement after voting in favor of H.Con.Res.38, to terminate the use of U.S. Armed Forces for unauthorized hostilities against Iran:

“Only Congress has the power to declare war. President Trump made the decision to send American service members into harm's way without providing any evidence of a credible imminent threat to the United States, without consulting the people’s representatives in Congress, and without a plan to ensure America is not drawn into another prolonged conflict in the Middle East.

"While the regime in Iran has oppressed their people and supported terrorism in the region for decades, the President must still come before Congress and the American people with clear justifications for the use of military force at this scale.

“My constituents continue to suffer from rising prices created by President Trump’s trade wars. They want this Administration to take action to address the affordability crisis here at home. They do not want their tax dollars to fund another war in the Middle East.”

Background

H.Con.Res.38 simply requires the cessation in offensive hostilities. The resolution would not prevent our servicemembers from engaging in defensive military actions to protect our allies and our bases in the region.

Months after President Trump declared that Iran’s nuclear infrastructure had been “completely and totally obliterated,” his administration has failed to identify an imminent threat that prompted the initiation of war on February 28. Further, explanations from Trump and his administration continue to shift, sometimes by the hour and minute. Not only did President Trump confirm that the current U.S. military campaign against Iran would continue for several weeks, he also signaled that he is open to American military boots on the ground in Iran.

Americans oppose the war with Iran because of the potential for this conflict to become yet another forever war paid for with taxpayer dollars and in American lives.

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Brown Blasts Ohio Release of Voter Data to Trump DOJ

Washington, DC – The Ohio Secretary of State has released over 8 million voter registration records to the Department of Justice.

Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) releases the following statement:

“Shame on Ohio and Secretary of State LaRose for handing confidential voter information to the federal government.

“While most states across the country are rejecting the Trump DOJ’s outrageous voter roll demands, Ohio voluntarily handed over sensitive voter data with no transparency and no real safeguards. What’s worse, multiple courts have already ruled that the Trump DOJ has no right to ask for or to obtain this information.

“This isn’t about election security. Our elections are safe and secure. This is just another cynical attempt by Donald Trump to sow fear, create chaos, and undermine future elections. And the rubber-stamping Republicans down in Columbus are happily playing along.”

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Brown Votes to End Trump’s War with Iran

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) voted in favor of a War Powers Resolution (H. Con. Res. 38) to end United States military action against Iran absent Congressional authorization.

Congresswoman Brown releases the following statement:

“Today, I voted to end Trump’s war with Iran and to defend and uphold our Constitution. The Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war to prevent a situation exactly like this, where the President has recklessly taken us to war without the consent of the people.

“The President has completely failed to identify an imminent threat or explain what he is trying to achieve or how he plans to achieve it. Instead, the Administration keeps offering different explanations and changing its story by the hour. That means the President is either making this up as he goes, lying to the country, or both.

“What’s worse is that the same Administration that cut Medicaid, cut basic food benefits, and cut the Affordable Care Act is now waging a war that is costing the American taxpayer over a billion dollars each day. We must reject this costly and aimless war that is built on lies.”

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Vice Ranking Member Brown Votes Against Partisan Farm Bill in Ag Committee Markup

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11), Vice Ranking Member on the House Committee on Agriculture, voted against the majority’s one-sided partisan Farm Bill proposal this week.

During markup, Vice Ranking Member Brown offered three amendments to improve the Farm Bill for families in need and small farms. Brown introduced amendments to: require that tariffs may not be changed until the Administration submits a full impact report to Congress, an amendment to repeal the expanded work requirements for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) created by the Republican Budget Bill (H.R. 1) signed last year, and an amendment to delay the new cost sharing requirements signed by H.R. 1. None of the amendments were adopted by the Republican Majority.

“I couldn’t support this Farm Bill because it asks farmers and families to settle for less, at a moment they can least afford it. Instead of a serious effort at a bipartisan bill, the Republican Majority is simply going through the motions, ignoring the real pain being felt in the farm economy and at the kitchen table. Unfortunately, this bill shortchanges key programs, fails to provide farmers with certainty, and doubles down on cuts to food assistance programs at a time when hunger is rising. We should be working together on a Farm Bill that is good for all of America and can receive the bipartisan support needed in the House and Senate to actually become law and make a difference,” said Vice Ranking Member Brown.

Vice Ranking Member Brown’s Opening Remarks in Committee (Video Here):

The farm bill is our opportunity to address the real issues facing farmers and families across the country. Yet this effort feels like we’re just going through the motions, not doing the hard, thoughtful work the committee owes the people we serve.

There was no meaningful effort to negotiate and put forth a bipartisan product.

The bill ignores the alarm bells from farmers and families in red and blue states that our nation’s most effective anti- hunger program is at risk after the financial rug was pulled out from under them in H.R. 1.

And there is a stark gap between what’s in this bill and what’s producers and growers are experiencing on the ground.

The farm economy is under real strain. Net farm income has fallen sharply. Input costs are up. Export markets have been destroyed thanks to the current trade war. And farm bankruptcies reached 15,000 last year, with the crisis hitting the hardest in the Midwest.

Don’t just take my word for it. A group of 27 trusted former USDA and farm group leaders sent a letter to this Committee last month, expressing concerns about the quote “harmful and compounding effect that Administration policies are having on our farmers.” Mr. Chairman, I request unanimous consent to enter that letter into the record.

I share their concerns: staffing cuts and reorganization at USDA. Continued delay in passing year-round E15. Cuts to food aid – both international and domestic. Persistent labor challenges. Lost markets. Deteriorating trade relationships. These are the same concerns I hear reflected on the ground, and this bill fails to address any of them.

And, of course, we can’t talk about the state of the farm economy without talking about tariffs. For farmers, the Supreme Court’s tariff ruling comes after much of the damage is already done. For months, they’ve been operating in chaos. Markets they spent years building disappeared almost overnight. And just like in 2018, buyers are turning to countries like Argentina and Brazil.

That’s not theoretical—that’s lost contracts, lost income, and real uncertainty heading into planting season.

Producers, growers, and ranchers don’t want handouts.

They want stability. They want to know that if they grow it, they can sell it.

So when we sit here and talk about what this Farm Bill should do, it ought to start with that reality.

At the same time, rural communities, like those in southeast Ohio, northern Pennsylvania, and central Illinois, are being hollowed out by hospital cuts, childcare shortages, and small business closures. This is not spin; this is the lived reality for farmers and rural families and communities trying to hang on.

And this crisis runs from the farm gate to the dinner plate. While farmers struggle to stay afloat, families in Cleveland are paying more and getting less at the grocery store. Prices continue to climb, and for the 1 in 5 households in my district who depend on nutrition assistance, that means impossible choices.

We haven’t had a hearing in this Committee on anything touched by the Farm Bill in nearly 6 months, and the result is a bill that leaves small producers, specialty crop farmers, families, and tribal communities behind.

And this bill takes new aim at the very partners helping hold communities together. It shifts costs onto charitable food networks, like the gold-standard Greater Cleveland Food Bank in my district, that are already stretched thin. It undercuts conservation programs that farmers rely on to manage risk. It shortchanges research institutions and land grants, including by missing the opportunity to make 1890 scholarships permanent for schools like Ohio’s Central State.

And it is impossible to divorce what we are considering here today from the cuts that Republicans made in H.R. 1. At a time when 47 million Americans are food insecure, this Committee chose to crack the farm bill coalition in half and use food assistance as a pay for.

The Farm Bill is supposed to be the foundation of both farm stability and food security.

We should be focused on rebuilding coalitions that reflect the full food system and pushing for durable, bipartisan solutions that actually meet this moment.

That’s how we rebuild trust. That’s how we break this cycle of gridlock. And that’s how, after years of delay, we deliver a Farm Bill that actually works for the people it’s supposed to serve.

Sadly, this bill – and this process – falls well short of that standard.


Congressman Eric Sorensen Introduces New Legislation to Investigate Major Weather Disasters

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) introduced the National Weather Safety Board Act, legislation that establishes an independent review board to investigate major weather-related disasters to determine what went wrong, what worked, and how the nation can better protect lives and property in the future.

Modeled after the National Transportation Safety Board, the National Weather Safety Board would conduct independent investigations after major disasters such as hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, and extreme winter storms.

“As the only Meteorologist serving in Congress, I’ve spent my career watching how seconds and decisions can mean the difference between life and death,” said Congressman Sorensen. “After a major disaster, we owe families more than thoughts and prayers – we owe them answers, accountability, and real solutions. Weather will always be difficult to predict, but our response to it doesn’t have to be.”

“I am encouraged by congressional support for independent, science-based reviews of weather disasters that would identify the needs, capabilities, and resources required to save more lives and minimize impacts to communities. Such reviews have great potential to accelerate innovation, improve coordination, and ensure mission success across government, industry, and academic sectors,” said Douglas Hilderbrand, Executive Director, American Weather Enterprise Association.

The board would examine preparedness, forecasting, warnings, and emergency response across federal agencies. After that process, the board would issue public recommendations to prevent future tragedies.

Under the legislation, the NWSB would be composed of experts in meteorology, hydrology, emergency management, communications, social science, and academia. Following qualifying major disasters, the Board would vote on whether to launch an investigation, subpoena records if necessary, and issue both preliminary and final reports with actionable recommendations to agencies, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the National Weather Service (NWS), FEMA, the Army Corps of Engineers, and the FCC.

The National Weather Safety Board would operate independently, publish its findings publicly, and track whether agencies implement its safety recommendations.

Congressman Eric Sorensen represents Illinois’ 17th District in the United States House of Representatives. Prior to serving in Congress, Sorensen was a local meteorologist in Rockford and the Quad Cities for more than 20 years. His district includes Illinois’ Quad Cities, Rockford, Peoria, and Bloomington-Normal.

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Congressman Sorensen Votes to Block Bill that Fails Illinois Farmers

WASHINGTON, DC – Representative Eric Sorensen (IL-17) released the following statement after voting no on the H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026—the latest version of the Farm Bill—in committee.

“Back in 2023 I worked with farmers and stakeholders from all across Illinois, as well as my colleagues in the majority, to get to a yes on the Farm Bill. I was hopeful that I would be able to do the same today but so much has changed in just a short amount of time. Hard working people deserve so much better.

“American farmers are hurting. Input costs are through the roof while commodity prices are in the dumpster. Bankruptcies are up 46% and we have an affordability crisis becoming worse with retaliatory tariffs. Republican cuts to food assistance have pushed seniors, families, veterans, and people with disabilities to the brink while grocery prices surge.”

“We had an opportunity to address these problems and make farmers whole. But House Republicans refused to meet me in the middle. Instead, they passed a bill with 2018 level funding levels and told farmers to make do. Not even a shift to account for inflation! This bill does not provide stability or certainty and it’s not what farmers, ranchers, and rural communities deserve.

“Farmers want markets and better access to tools that will strengthen soils, build resilience, and improve productivity. Instead, this bill waters down funding for programs that are already stretched thin, fails to restore SNAP benefits for working families and veterans, and leaves out year-round E-15 which would lower gas prices and give farmers access to new markets.

“I will always do what will best support our farmers. And today, that meant voting no on this year’s Farm Bill.”

Congressman Eric Sorensen represents Illinois’ 17th District in the United States House of Representatives. Prior to serving in Congress, Sorensen was a local meteorologist in Rockford and the Quad Cities for more than 20 years. His district includes Illinois’ Quad Cities, Rockford, Peoria, and Bloomington-Normal.

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Stanton Demands Answers on Death of Emmanuel Damas in Florence ICE Detention Center

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.) sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons demanding a full and transparent accounting of the death of Emmanuel Damas, a Haitian national detained at the Florence Service Processing Center in Arizona.

“I spoke to Emmanuel Damas’s brother this morning to offer my sincere condolences. His family deserves answers and accountability, and I will not stop pushing until ICE provides it,” Stanton said.

Stanton’s letter requests detailed information about Damas's death, additional questions regarding the facility's medical capacity and protocols including:

A complete medical examiner’s report concerning Mr. Damas's cause and manner of death

A comprehensive accounting of all medical care offered to, provided to, or withheld from Mr. Damas during his detention at Florence, including dates, names of medical personnel, documented complaints, and requests for referral.

ICE’s notification protocols and full account of when Mr. Damas's family was notified of his condition and subsequent hospitalization.

Whether ICE has initiated an internal review or critical incident investigation into the circumstances of Mr. Damas's death.


After Noem Firing, ICE Must Still Be Held Accountable Before Senate Considers Replacement DHS Secretary

Washington D.C. – In response to Kristi Noem’s firing, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens issued the following statement:

“Under Kristi Noem, ICE killed Americans, used children as bait to detain their parents, lied to Congress, and terrorized our neighborhoods. She should have been fired a long time ago. We still must address the chaos and lawlessness Donald Trump’s ICE has unleashed across our country.

“Before the Senate considers any replacement, the American people demand serious reforms at ICE that will keep people safe. I won’t stop fighting for a complete overhaul that focuses on transparency, accountability, getting the facts of what’s unfolding at the detention facility in Baldwin, and keeping Michiganders safe.”

Stevens has been leading the fight to hold ICE accountable in Congress and to rein in Donald Trump’s repeated abuses of power during his Administration.

Stevens called for the immediate removal of Secretary Kristi Noem and cosponsored an effort to impeach her in the House of Representatives.

Stevens and her Michigan colleague, Rep. Hillary Scholten visited an ICE detention facility in Baldwin, Michigan, to tour conditions and demand answers to their letter over the death of detainee Nenko Gantchev in ICE custody in December.

Following their visit, Stevens and Scholten doubled down on their demands for answers from ICE and Secretary Noem.

Stevens cosponsored H.R. 7163, a proposal to divert ICE’s $75 billion slush fund to state and local law enforcement agencies.

Stevens voted against the Department of Homeland Security appropriations bill, refusing to fund ICE’s operations without major reforms or accountability measures.

Last year, Stevens cosponsored the VISIBLE Act to prohibit ICE agents from wearing masks and concealing their identities.

Stevens joined over 150 of her colleagues in demanding that ICE end its surge of officers in Minnesota and conduct a thorough investigation into the death of Renee Nicole Good at the hands of an ICE agent.

Stevens and her Michigan colleague, Rep. Hillary Scholten, demanded an investigation into the death of Nenko Gantchev, an individual who died in ICE custody in Baldwin, Michigan.

Stevens voted against the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” which gave ICE its nearly $75 billion windfall.

Stevens introduced the Stop Trump’s Abuse of Power Act, legislation to prevent the President from deploying the military against Americans without express consent from state officials, an authoritarian tactic this President has used repeatedly to fuel fear and intimidation during aggressive ICE crackdowns.

Stevens voted against the Laken Riley Act, which would sweep thousands of people into jails and detention centers at enormous taxpayer expense while diverting key law enforcement resources and potentially violating civil liberties.

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Rep. Stevens Introduces Congressional Stock Trading Ban, Additional Measures to Restore Public Trust as Part of ‘No Getting Rich in Congress Act’

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens led her colleagues Congressman Derek Tran (CA-45), Congressman Eric Sorensen (D-IL), and Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06), in introducing the No Getting Rich in Congress Act, sweeping legislation to crack down on insider trading in Congress and the White House, restore trust in government, and ensure public service is about serving the American people, not personal profit.

According to the latest polling, Congress’s approval among the American people sits at a near-record low of 17%. Across party lines and generations, voters agree: Washington is broken. Too often, elected officials use their positions to advance their financial interests instead of delivering results for their constituents.

The No Getting Rich in Congress Act establishes strong, enforceable standards to prevent officials from profiting from conflicts of interest and close longstanding loopholes that have undermined confidence in federal leadership.

“The American people deserve leaders who are working for them, not for their stock portfolios, not for corporate board seats, and not for foreign adversaries,” said Rep. Haley Stevens. “Michiganders want results from their government, not self-dealing. The No Getting Rich in Congress Act draws a clear line: public servants must put their communities first, not profit.”

“When I’m home in Orange County, I constantly hear from constituents who have lost faith in our government because they’ve watched scandal after scandal plague corrupt politicians. They want to see elected officials working for the people, not for rich donors or foreign governments. Congress can’t wait another day to earn back the public’s trust,” said Rep. Derek Tran. “The No Getting Rich in Congress Act has been shaped by months of work to close every loophole, eliminate every exemption, and find every measure of accountability to put Congress back to work for the people, not their own profits. I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Representative Stevens to not only ban Congressional stock trading, but rein in every practice that puts moneyed interests ahead of our communities. We’re scrapping politics as usual and putting people first.”

"Members of Congress should not be able to use our positions for personal and financial gain. I am cosponsoring the No Getting Rich in Congress Act because it makes long-overdue reforms to increase transparency, strengthen ethics rules, and earn back the American people’s trust. I’m urging every one of my colleagues to join us—because the people we represent deserve to know that we are working for them,” said Rep. Eric Sorensen.

“Members of Congress, federal officials, and their family members should never be allowed to profit from privileged information. That is why I support this legislative package to create additional guardrails to ban trading by public officials and their families, to regulate any insider influence, and broaden ethics rules so that the people in power are motivated by serving the American people, not personal profit.” said Rep. Andrea Salinas.

The legislation is also cosponsored by Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-OH).

Key Provisions of the Legislation:

Bans trading by public officials and their families. Prohibits the President, Vice President, Members of Congress, candidates for federal office, spouses, and dependents from buying or selling individual stocks, futures, commodities, and cryptocurrency, with strict reporting and enforcement mechanisms, including penalties for violations.

Prohibits lobbying on behalf of foreign adversaries. Permanently bans former public officials from lobbying on behalf of foreign adversaries, including China, to influence U.S. government decisions.

Closes loopholes and regulates shadow lobbying. Requires spouses of both Members of Congress and senior Administration officials to register and report any effort to influence government decisions, ensuring spouses cannot use public office for personal financial gain.

Restricts corporate board service. Bars Members and their spouses from serving on or being officers of a corporate board, with strict reporting and conduct requirements for any pre-existing board service.

Extends existing ethics rules to spouses and dependents. Applies all gift, travel, and reimbursement restrictions that cover Members to their spouses and dependents, preventing backdoor deals and conflicts of interest.

Stevens has long been an advocate to reform Congressional ethics rules and ban stock trading by Members of Congress. She does not trade individual stocks and she is an original cosponsor of the bipartisan Trust in Congress Act.

Full bill text can be found here.

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Strickland, Cantwell, Murray Introduce Bill Restoring Nisqually Tribe Ownership of Clear Creek Hatchery

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) introduced the Nisqually Clear Creek Hatchery Land Transfer Act of 2026. The bill transfers the Clear Creek hatchery, located on Nisqually Indian Tribe’s ancestral lands, from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to the Nisqually Indian Tribe. The Senate version of the bill was introduced today, led by U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA).

“This land belongs to the Nisqually Tribe, and they should own their hatchery,” said Congresswoman Strickland. “Restoring hatchery ownership to the Nisqually Tribe ensures they can exercise their Tribal Treaty rights, fully maintain the buildings, apply for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service funding, and better support their fisheries program for current and future generations.”

“The Nisqually Tribe has long been a leader in bringing more salmon back to the Nisqually River and protecting the entire watershed. The Clear Creek Hatchery is a keystone of these efforts, producing millions of salmon smolts each year. Finally acquiring the Clear Creek Hatchery will allow the Tribe to make more investments in boosting salmon populations to reduce pressure on endangered Chinook and ensure access to fishing opportunities in South Puget Sound,” said Senator Cantwell.

“The Nisqually Tribe are leaders in protecting our salmon, long maintaining the Clear Creek Hatchery without any federal financial support—this commonsense bill would right that historic wrong,” said Senator Murray. “By transferring the hatchery into Nisqually Tribe ownership, the Tribe will be able to use federal funds to continue to operate and maintain its buildings and infrastructure. I am going to continue to do everything I can to support our salmon runs, and ensure the federal government fulfills its trust and treaty obligations to the Nisqually Tribe.”

The USFWS currently owns the Clear Creek hatchery buildings yet does not provide any funds for operations or maintenance. Since the land is owned by USFWS, the Tribe cannot use any federal funds through USFWS or the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) to support its maintenance.

For over twenty years, building upkeep has become the financial responsibility of the Nisqually Tribe. This bill fixes the problem by transferring the hatchery into Tribe ownership, so the buildings and infrastructure can be maintained appropriately – ensuring salmon populations in the region can continue to thrive.

“The Clear Creek Hatchery is essential to our fisheries program. I myself once worked there protecting the existence of our future salmon runs. The Tribe has been relentless in its efforts to obtain ownership of these facilities, which we have already operated for years. I want to express my sincere gratitude to Senator Cantwell and Representative Strickland for their tireless advocacy of Nisqually’s efforts and for introducing this bill while also thanking the Administration and FWS Director Nesvik for their support of this legislation,” said Nisqually Indian Tribe Chairman, Ken Choke.

“I want to thank Senator Cantwell and Representative Strickland for the introduction of this commonsense bill. Transfer of ownership of these facilities from the FWS to the Nisqually Tribe will allow the Tribe to make much needed upgrades to the Clear Creek Hatchery while investing in its future and sustainable salmon runs,” added Nisqually Indian Tribe Vice Chairwoman, Cheebo Frazier.

Read the full bill text here.

Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is Whip of the New Democrat Coalition, Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus, and is one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.

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Rep. Subramanyam Statement After Voting For Iran War Powers Resolution

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) released the following statement after voting for an Iran War Powers Resolution. Rep. Subramanyam is also a co-sponsor of the Resolution:

“Somehow President Trump found the money to start a unilateral war with Iran and spend billions of dollars a day in the Middle East, and yet he could not find the money for health care, food for kids, and benefits for veterans and seniors. What's more, this was a war of choice without buy-in or notice to our allies. I have not been shown any concrete evidence that the threat was imminent or that immediate military action was required.

The lack of foresight also left thousands of Americans stranded overseas, including several Virginians. My heart goes out to the 6 servicemembers who have been killed, 18 who have been wounded, their families, and all who are in harm’s way in the region – due to the lack of notice. While our military assets were quietly repositioned in the last few weeks, the State Department failed to issue travel advisories until the eleventh hour, effectively telling our citizens ‘you’re on your own.’ That is unacceptable.

My vote today was to assert very clearly that President Trump must get buy-in from the American people and Congress. This conflict is a profound misuse of taxpayer funds, especially while American families struggle to afford health care and groceries. The American people must have a say.”


Rep. Subramanyam Statement on Noem Firing, DHS Funding Vote

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) released the following statement after President Trump announced he has fired Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem:

“Kristi Noem should have been fired a long time ago. Her corruption, self-dealing, and tolerance and advocacy for lawlessness at ICE were sufficient grounds for termination.

On top of that, she fired high-performing, experienced federal workers and contractors in our community who kept our country safe. She was never fit to serve, and the Department needs a capable, qualified leader who will lead this agency forward and help protect the American people.”

Rep. Subramanyam is a co-sponsor of impeachment articles for Kristi Noem. In addition to Noem’s firing, Rep. Subramanyam voted against the DHS funding bill.

The Congressman said, “House Democrats have been very clear about what we want. We want accountability and transparency for ICE. That includes masks off of federal agents and no more administrative warrants. DHS doesn’t need to be shut down. We have a bill that would fund most of DHS except ICE and the office of the Secretary, but House Republicans have refused to bring it to the floor.

Additionally, this administration has fired counterterrorism and cybersecurity experts. We're now in a war where cybersecurity and terrorism are at the forefront. They fired a lot of people who were involved in counterterrorism, and there's a 22-year-old running counterterrorism for our country. We need leaders who will take our national security seriously.”


Rep. Sykes Votes to Stop Unauthorized Military Action in Iran

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) released the following statement after voting in favor of a war powers resolution to remove U.S. forces from hostilities in Iran that have not been authorized by Congress. The resolution did not pass the House.

The vote comes after President Donald Trump ordered strikes in Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, other senior officials, and many civilians. In response, six U.S. service members have been killed in Iranian retaliatory attacks.

“Congress alone has the constitutional authority to declare war,” Rep. Sykes said. “President Trump cannot send Americans into harm’s way without our approval. Six of our troops have already died, and the cost is rising. Meanwhile, he should be focused on lowering costs for everyday Americans at home — making life more affordable, as he promised — not escalating a war thousands of miles away.”

The war powers resolution is designed to protect congressional oversight of military action while allowing the president to act in real emergencies. Rep. Sykes vowed to continue fighting for the safety of U.S. troops, support for military families, and a deliberate, constitutional approach to decisions of war and peace.


Statement on DHS Secretary Kristi Noem’s Firing

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) released the following statement on Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s firing.


Congressman Shri Thanedar Praises Secretary Noem’s Firing, Demands Further Accountability from the Department of Homeland Security

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Shri Thanedar, the Top Democrat on Homeland Security’s Oversight, Investigations, and Accountability Subcommittee, issued the following statement on President Trump’s firing of Kristi Noem.

“Just a few months ago, I demanded that Secretary Kristi Noem resign for her atrocious conduct as the Secretary of Homeland Security. Her repeated lies and defiance of court orders were so egregious that I supported articles of impeachment against her. Today, I am pleased to hear that she has been fired from her position.

Her tenure as Secretary of Homeland Security was defined by cruelty, oppression, and blatant disregard for the rule of law and the Constitution. From illegally raiding workplaces, churches, and homes to using excessive violence against the American people, ultimately leading to the murder of Renee Nicole Good, a mother of three, and Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse for the VA, her tenure will go down as one of the most shameful chapters in American history.

Ms. Noem should know that just because she has been fired, she will not escape accountability. She will be held responsible for the atrocities ICE committed under her direction and her day of reckoning is coming.

And while I am glad that she is no longer DHS’s Secretary, the main source of the problems that have marred the Department is the President of the United States, Donald Trump. Markwayne Mullin has been announced as Noem’s replacement, but regardless of whoever is Secretary of Homeland Security, I remain committed to standing up against any and all actions by this administration to abuse the powers of the Department of Homeland Security and weaponize it against our neighbors.”

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 the Medicines for the People Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) introduced the Medicines for the People Act which will establish a public option for biomedical and pharmaceutical research and development. The National Institute for Biomedical Research and Development, as part of the National Institutes of Health, will engage in the full-cycle development of drugs, devices, and biological products to reduce drug prices, promote access to medicines, foster scientific innovation, and address public health priorities.

“Big Pharma is using our taxpayer dollars to fund their greed and is profiting heavily from it. They are charging outrageous prices and neglecting urgent public health needs. It’s time for our government to take the lead in driving drug development—not leave it solely in the hands of private companies that too often put profits over people,” said Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib. “I am proud to introduce the Medicines for the People Act to tackle this crisis.”

Prescription drugs in the U.S. cost 278 percent more than in other countries. To make matters worse, these high prices and the resulting massive profits are not fueling innovation. Big Pharma spends more money on stock buy-backs, dividends, and executive compensation than on research and development (R&D). In fact, there is no correlation between drug companies’ R&D costs and the prices they charge—and most newly approved drugs fail to provide previously unavailable medical benefits. At the same time, virtually all new prescription drugs are produced with public support, yet public health priorities and unmet medical needs are neglected as companies pursue profits instead. Public investments should support public health first and foremost, not private profits. We need an alternative.

The National Institute for Biomedical Research and Development will:

Carry out a program for the research and development of drugs, devices, and biological products to promote long-term access to medicines, foster innovation, and prioritize public health needs—while ensuring its treatments are available to the public at equitable and accessible prices.

Adhere to the highest standards of transparency by ensuring that the scientific data generated by its research is made publicly available.

Monitor research supported by the NIH and acquire the rights to inventions produced by such research.

Manage the patents derived from its research and development programs in the public interest.

Be governed by a multi-stakeholder board—including public health officials, representatives from independent patient-advocate organizations, and those with a background in access to medicines.

Prioritize those interventions that address unmet needs, offer the potential for scientific breakthrough, and/or offer the largest public health impact—instead of maximizing private profits.

“Support from the American public funds the research that undergirds virtually all new medicines that prescription drug corporations bring to market, yet we continue to allow Big Pharma to charge us the highest prices in the world,” said Peter Maybarduk, Access to Medicines Director at Public Citizen. “The Medicines for the People Act would reclaim power drug corporations abuse, to ensure we are supporting research and development of treatments that meet our medical needs at fair prices instead of publicly subsidizing pharma greed.”

“Nurses know deeply the deadly impacts our profit-driven health care system has on our patients,” said Mary Turner, RN and President of National Nurses United. “Profit motive impacts everything down to the cost and availability of prescription drugs. We are already seeing our patients ration their medications to make it last, and the cuts to health care programs from HR 1 will undoubtedly make it harder to afford medications. We’re grateful to Representative Rashida Tlaib for introducing the Medicines for the People Act. It’s time we create a real alternative to Big Pharma, one that prioritizes public health and puts an end to the money-making schemes that make it impossible to get the prescription drugs our patients need.”

“The Medicines for the People Act would be transformative, breaking Big Pharma’s monopoly on our medicines supply and assuring that the next breakthrough medicines come to market at prices we can all afford,” said Dana Brown, Senior Fellow at the Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator. “Moreover, the National Institute for Biomedical Research and Development’s transparency and collaboration measures would speed up innovation across the sector in a win-win for private industry and public science.”

“The Medicines for the People Act is about making sure taxpayers get high-quality medicines to solve our most pressing health challenges, not just pad the bottom lines of major corporations,” said Cassidy Parshall, Program Manager for Universities Allied for Essential Medicines North America. “By expanding the public’s innovation system, patients will get the care they need while we lower the costs of medicines for everyone.”

“At The Senior Alliance, we see firsthand how rising prescription drug and medical costs can limit older adults’ access to the care they need,” said Amanda Sears, Chief Community Impact Officer at The Senior Alliance. “The Senior Alliance supports initiatives that lower medical and prescription drug costs to ensure every older adult can obtain high quality healthcare.”

“Drug monopolies and middlemen threaten Americans’ physical and financial health,” said Emma Freer, Senior Policy Analyst for Healthcare at American Economic Liberties Project. “Economic Liberties is proud to endorse the Medicines for the People Act, which would establish a public option and is a big step toward breaking up Big Medicine.”

Congresswoman Summer Lee (PA-12) joined in support of this legislation.

This legislation is endorsed by ACA Consumer Advocacy, American Economic Liberties Project, Doctors for America, Health GAP, Just Treatment, MomsRising, National Nurses United, Our Revolution, Oxfam America, People’s Health Movement U.S., People’s Policy Project, People’s Action Institute, Popular Democracy in Action, Public Citizen, T1International, The 90-10 Institute, The Senior Alliance, Treatment Action Group, Universities Allied for Essential Medicines, Voices of Health Care Action, and Wellbeing Economy Alliance (WEAll).

The full text of the legislation can be found here.

A two-pager about the bill can be found here.

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Representative Tran Asserts Constitutional Authority Over Military Action in Iran

Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Derek Tran (CA-45) issued a statement following his vote on H.Con.Res 38, a War Powers Resolution to block further executive military action in Iran without Congressional authorization:

“Today, I voted to assert Congress’s Constitutional powers over war-making. I have grave concerns that the Trump Administration's impulsive, unilateral military actions, without the consent of the American people, are further destabilizing an already volatile region.

“Six heroic service members have already been killed because the President failed to act with transparency, measured diplomacy, and thoughtful justification. Congress cannot wait one more day to rein in this Administration’s recklessness and protect the lives of our troops.

“There is no question that the Iranian regime is a malign actor - an oppressor of its people and state-sponsor of terrorism - but the Administration has failed to provide a meaningful justification necessitating the immediate use of military force. All diplomatic options must be exhausted to ensure that the Iranian people can achieve freedom and democracy without the consequences of a ruinous war.

“No government decision is more solemn, and no issue is more deserving of public debate, than the act of committing American lives to armed conflict. Our children will be left with the global consequences of this endeavor and saddled with a multi-billion-dollar debt. My vote for this War Powers Resolution sends a clear message: we will not accept more forever wars.”

On February 28, 2026, President Trump conducted a unilateral, offensive attack on Iran in conjunction with Israeli forces, an operation that has thus far resulted in the deaths of six American servicemembers. H.Con.Res 38 would direct the President to remove U.S. armed forces from unauthorized hostilities in Iran and reassert Congressional authority over declarations of war.

Serving his first term in Congress, Representative Tran serves on the powerful House Armed Services Committee, overseeing the Department of Defense. Following offensive U.S. military actions against Iran conducted without Congressional oversight in June 2025, Tran cosponsored a Congressional war powers resolution reaffirming that Congress, not the executive branch, reserves the right to declare war. He also voted in favor of H.Con.Res 61 and H.Con.Res 64, two War Powers Resolutions introduced in response to the Trump Administration’s unsanctioned strikes against alleged Venezuelan cartel vessels in the Caribbean Sea. Tran serves as a co-chair of the House Democratic Caucus National Security Task Force, bringing together expertise in Congress to develop policy solutions to the most pressing national security challenges facing our country. Representative Tran enlisted in the Army Reserve at age 18 and served for eight years. He was activated for Operation Noble Eagle/Enduring Freedom before earning an honorable discharge.

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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 Demands Accountability for ICE in DHS Funding Vote

Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Derek Tran (CA-45) released a statement following his vote against H.R. 7744, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Appropriations Act of 2026, in response to significant concerns from constituents over public safety.

“Every day, I hear from families who are scared to go about their lives because of reckless ICE enforcement operations in U.S. cities across this nation. Americans are being killed by ill-trained ICE and CPB agents without any accountability. This chaos is making our streets less safe, our businesses struggle to stay open, and our law enforcement divert precious resources from their efforts to fight crime,” said Representative Tran. “I have been proud to join my colleagues in demanding common-sense reforms, including my legislation with Rep. Salinas to hold ICE and CBP agents liable for civil rights violations and Rep. DeLauro’s legislation to fund agencies like FEMA and the Coast Guard while a better immigration enforcement framework is negotiated. I won’t let our tax dollars be used to create chaos in our streets. I urge my colleagues from both sides of the aisle to come together and negotiate a meaningful compromise that puts the safety of the American people first.”

On February 23, 2026, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026, which included a continuing resolution (CR) to fund DHS at existing levels for two weeks and allow lawmakers to continue negotiating oversight and accountability measures for ICE. Following the expiration of the CR, the House passed H.R. 7744 in a vote of 221-209, despite the absence of measures to protect U.S. citizens from unlawful detention and deportation.

Representative Tran continues to closely monitor ICE activity across Southern California. Tran has cosponsored legislation to place checks on ICE’s conduct, including:

H.R. 4176, the No Secret Police Act, to prohibit ICE agents from wearing non-tactical face coverings while on duty;

H.R. 5973, The Stop Excessive Force in Immigration Act, to scale back the level of force permissible in immigration operations;

H.R. 3172, The ICE Visibility Act, to require agents to clearly identify themselves as such when interacting with the public;

H.R. 5653, the Trust Through Transparency Act, to require all ICE officials to wear body cameras when interacting with the public in immigration enforcement operations;

H.R. 944, The Access to Counsel Act, to ensure that U.S. citizens and individuals with lawful status are able to call an attorney or family member to seek legal assistance when they are detained;

H.R. 5941, The Restoring Access for Detainees Act, to require DHS to allow noncitizens who have been detained to contact their legal counsel and families, and;

H.R. 4456, Stop ICE from Kidnapping U.S. Citizens Act, to prohibit ICE from using federal funds to detain or deport U.S. citizens.

Since taking office in January 2025, Tran’s office has opened over 230 cases to assist constituents related to the adjudication of their immigration status with federal agencies.

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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 Introduces No Getting Rich in Congress Act to Combat Corruption, Restore Trust in Government

Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Derek Tran (CA-45) joined Representatives Haley Stevens (MI-11), Eric Sorensen (IL-17), and Andrea Salinas (OR-06) to introduce sweeping legislation to crack down on corruption and restore public trust in government. The No Getting Rich in Congress Act establishes strong, enforceable standards to prevent public officials from profiting from conflicts of interest and implements stringent transparency measures to prevent officials and their spouses from influencing government decisions for personal gain.

Read the full bill text HERE.

“When I’m home in Orange County, I constantly hear from constituents who have lost faith in our government because they’ve watched scandal after scandal plague corrupt politicians. They want to see elected officials working for the people, not for rich donors or foreign governments. Congress can’t wait another day to earn back the public’s trust,” said Representative Tran. “The No Getting Rich in Congress Act has been shaped by months of work to close every loophole, eliminate every exemption, and find every measure of accountability to put Congress back to work for the people, not their own profits. I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Representative Stevens to not only ban Congressional stock trading, but rein in every practice that puts moneyed interests ahead of our communities. We’re scrapping politics as usual and putting people first.”

“The American people deserve leaders who are working for them, not for their stock portfolios, not for corporate board seats, and not for foreign adversaries,” said Representative Stevens. “Michiganders want results from their government, not self-dealing. The No Getting Rich in Congress Act draws a clear line: public servants must put their communities first, not profit.”

"Members of Congress should not be able to use our positions for personal and financial gain. I am cosponsoring the No Getting Rich in Congress Act because it makes long-overdue reforms to increase transparency, strengthen ethics rules, and earn back the American people’s trust. I’m urging every one of my colleagues to join us—because the people we represent deserve to know that we are working for them,” said Representative Sorensen.

“Members of Congress, federal officials, and their family members should never be allowed to profit from privileged information. That is why I support this legislative package to create additional guardrails to ban trading by public officials and their families, to regulate any insider influence, and broaden ethics rules so that the people in power are motivated by serving the American people, not personal profit.” said Representative Salinas.

The No Getting Rich in Congress Act would reform ethics guidelines for public officials across the legislative and executive branches to:

Ban trading by public officials and their families and impose strict reporting and enforcement mechanisms, like penalties for violations;

Prohibit lobbying by former public officials on behalf of foreign adversaries, including China;

Close loopholes and regulate shadow lobbying by requiring spouses of Members of Congress and senior Administration officials to register and report any effort to influence government decisions, ensuring spouses cannot use public office for personal financial gain;

Restrict corporate board service for Members and their spouses and enact reporting and conduct requirements for any pre-existing board service; and

Extend existing ethics rules to spouses and dependents, preventing backdoor deals and conflicts of interest.

The legislation is also cosponsored by Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-OH).

Serving his first term in elected office, Representative Tran is committed to people-first policies that prioritize transparency and accountability for elected officials. Tran signed onto a letter raising ethics-related concerns regarding troubling exemptions for the President and Vice President from digital asset regulations, as well as demanding answers from the Trump Administration on how trade policy decisions benefit individuals close to the President. Representative Tran has cosponsored several pieces of legislation to improve oversight for the federal government and its partners, including:

H.R. 4405, the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which requires the Attorney General to release all documents and records possessed by the Department of Justice relating to Jeffrey Epstein to increase public accountability in federal investigations connected to Epstein;

H.R. 192, the Amtrak Executive Bonus Disclosure Act, which requires Amtrak to publicly disclose executive compensation at the federally-supported passenger rail corporation; and

H.R. 153, the Post-Disaster Assistance Online Accountability Act, which requires the federal government to publish information on disaster assistance provided by federal agencies to improve transparency and public oversight of federal disaster relief spending.

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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.


Congressman Kelly Announces Service Academy Appointment

March 5, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Trent Kelly is proud to announce the appointment of Elizabeth (Ellie) Grehan of Hernando, Mississippi, to the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Each year, members of Congress may nominate candidates to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while… Read more »

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Trent Kelly is proud to announce the appointment of Elizabeth (Ellie) Grehan of Hernando, Mississippi, to the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Each year, members of Congress may nominate candidates to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while receiving a top-tier education.

Ellie is a dedicated student-athlete who has excelled academically throughout her high school career. She is a student at Hernando High School, where she has maintained a 4.0+ GPA across all four years while earning outstanding standardized testing scores.

She is also an accomplished multi-sport athlete competing on the Hernando High School junior varsity basketball team, junior varsity cross country team, and varsity track and field, where she qualified for state regionals.

Ellie's leadership is reflected through her extracurricular involvement and community engagement. She serves as Director of Communications for the Hernando Mayor's Youth Council and works as an umpire and game clock operator for Hernando Park and Recreation.


Congressman Kelly Announces Service Academy Appointment

March 5, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Trent Kelly is proud to announce the appointment of Shaw Prewitt of Shannon, Mississippi, to the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Each year, members of Congress may nominate candidate to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while receiving a top-tier… Read more »

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Trent Kelly is proud to announce the appointment of Shaw Prewitt of Shannon, Mississippi, to the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Each year, members of Congress may nominate candidate to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while receiving a top-tier education.

Shaw Prewitt has distinguished himself as an exceptional scholar, athlete, and servant leader. He attended South Pontotoc High School from 2022 to 2024 and currently attends the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science, where he continues to excel in Advanced Placement and dual-credit coursework.

An accomplished athlete, Shaw is trained in mixed martial arts and competed in wrestling, powerlifting, and football at South Pontotoc High School. At the Mississippi School for Math and Science, he founded the school's wrestling team and serves as captain.

Shaw's leadership extends well beyond the classroom and athletic field. He has served as Honorary President of the Mississippi State Society Children of the American Revolution, County Representative of American Legion Boys State, and Historian of the Indigenous Student Alliance. He earned the rank of Eagle Scout with Boys Scout of America Troop 12 and has served as Mississippi Senate Page for Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hoseman, as well as a U.S. Senate Page in Washington, D.C., for Senator Roger Wicker.

Committed to serving his community, Shaw has volunteered through his Eagle Scout Project, "Beds for Kids," the MSMS Volunteer Service Program, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, "Tales from the Crypt," and St. James Catholic Church, where he is a member of the Lift Teen Youth Group, among many other service initiatives.


Congressman Kelly Announces Service Academy Appointment

March 5, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Trent Kelly is proud to announce the appointment of Cyrus Flaherty of Tupelo, Mississippi, to the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Each year, members of Congress may nominate candidates to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while receiving a… Read more »

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Trent Kelly is proud to announce the appointment of Cyrus Flaherty of Tupelo, Mississippi, to the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Each year, members of Congress may nominate candidates to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while receiving a top-tier education.

Cyrus is an outstanding student leader at Tupelo High School, where he has demonstrated academic excellence and sustained achievement. He is a member of the National Honor Society, a Rotary Scholar, and has earned a placement on the Superintendent's List consecutively since 2014.

A committed leader, Cyrus has been actively involved in Tupelo High School JRTOC since 2021 and is completing his fourth year as a cadet. He currently serves as Cadet Major and Staff Officer, overseeing program operations and cadet training. In addition, he serves as a Teenage Republican Officer, is a Golden Wave Varsity Football manager, and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout with Scouting America Troop 85.

Cyrus's dedication to service extends beyond his school community. He volunteers with Hope Outdoors and has gained firsthand experience in public service as a U.S. Senate Page in Washington, D.C., for Senator Roger Wicker, and as a Page for Governor Tate Reeves.


Rep. Gabe Vasquez Secures Decisive Bipartisan Victories for New Mexicans in 2026 Farm Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On March 5, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) voted to pass the 2026 Farm Bill out of the House Agriculture Committee, marking a major bipartisan win for New Mexico’s farmers, ranchers, and producers. Over the course of the lengthy Farm Bill markup — which included over 20 hours of deliberation and stretched into the early morning hours Thursday — Rep. Vasquez secured a host of decisive victories for New Mexicans, garnering Republican support for his key provisions to protect ranchers from the Administration’s push to import Argentinian beef, lower utility bills by unlocking new sources of power, improve wildlife habitat connectivity, and more.

Vasquez’s key wins included the passage of several amendments — including three of his bills — to the Farm Bill:

An amendment condemning the Administration’s push to prioritize Argentinian beef imports at the expense of our American cattle ranchers. The amendment — which got unanimous support on both sides of the aisle — also directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to create a report on the harms of such imports. (WATCH HERE)

An amendment to better support producers’ voluntary efforts to restore and enhance wildlife habitat connectivity and migration corridors on their working lands by strengthening USDA conservation programs (WATCH HERE)

An amendment to bring down utility bills for businesses and boost rural power generation by recognizing waste energy recovery as renewable energy under the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP)

An amendment to ensure 1994 land-grant Tribal Colleges and Universities have full and equitable access to USDA Rural Development programs (WATCH HERE)

An amendment to cut red tape to ensure ranchers can make necessary range improvements in a timely manner and will create a virtual fencing pilot program at USDA, like the one that exists at New Mexico State University (WATCH HERE)

“I’ve been listening to the needs of our agriculture community since being elected to Congress, and I successfully added many of their priorities to this year’s Farm Bill,” said Vasquez. “While I am completely disappointed at many of the important changes to nutrition funding, I worked with the product put in front of us to move New Mexico’s priorities forward.”

“I brought together Republican and Democrat colleagues to protect domestic cattle growers from unfair Argentinian beef imports, strengthen conservation efforts that support wildlife migration and grasslands conservation, lower utility bills, and improve equity for Tribal Colleges and Universities,” added Vasquez. “I’m proud of these victories and the progress they will unlock for New Mexico’s farmers, ranchers, producers, businesses, and Tribal communities.”

The Congressman’s sweeping bipartisan wins mark a welcome departure from the hyperpartisan climate on Capitol Hill and an important step toward breaking the gridlock that has long stalled passage of a new Farm Bill. The most recent Farm Bill was enacted in 2018, despite the fact that Congress has traditionally reauthorized the legislation every five years.

The Congressman also spoke out against sweeping cuts to food assistance enacted under the Republican tax law and voted in favor of amendments that would reverse these harmful SNAP cuts and address the costs that the Republican tax law passed on to states like New Mexico.

Additionally, Rep. Vasquez fought to pass his amendment that would cut red tape and exempt veterans from the Republican tax law’s new work requirements.

“I can’t imagine how anyone in this room can look a hungry veteran in their district in the face and say you voted against feeding them,” said Vasquez, addressing his fellow members of the House Agriculture Committee, adding, “My amendment would cut the red tape imposed under the Republican tax law to ensure no veteran is forced to go hungry after serving their country.”

Republican Rep. Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) — a retired U.S. Navy SEAL and combat veteran — notably reached across the aisle and voted in support of Rep. Vasquez’s Feed Our Veterans Act amendment.

Rep. Vasquez also introduced and championed other key amendments. Of note, the Congressman:

Stood up for specialty crop farmers, introducing an amendment that would provide all specialty crop producers up to $900,000 in aid to keep their farms afloat amidst major headwinds from tariffs and market instability. (WATCH HERE)

Fought to protect Tribes and stop massive companies from stealing their revenue by closing a major loophole that allows prediction market companies to offer sports betting services without complying with sports betting regulations. (WATCH HERE)

Rep. Vasquez secured a commitment from Republican Chairman G.T. Thompson that the House Agriculture Committee will pursue action on this issue in the near-term.

The 2026 Farm Bill must now be brought up by Speaker Mike Johnson for a vote on the House Floor.

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Rep. Gabe Vasquez Statement on Secretary Noem’s Removal

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On March 5, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) released the following statement in response to the Administration’s removal of Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, effective March 31, 2026:

“Kristi Noem’s overdue removal as Secretary of Homeland Security is a step in the right direction. I have been leading the call for her removal since January because under her failed leadership we have seen the murder of American citizens by a government agency tasked with keeping them safe, failed emergency responses from FEMA in communities such as Ruidoso, and the continued waste of taxpayer funds.”

“My calls for meaningful DHS reform remain the same, and new DHS leadership must take Noem’s removal as a sign that major change is needed. We cannot allow masked agents to roam our streets and terrorize Americans with impunity. Federal agents must be held accountable for their actions with independent investigations into violations of use of force and the use of body cameras. And Americans must not be swept up in mass raids, detained, and killed by their own government.”

Rep. Vasquez was one of the first 20 Democratic lawmakers who led the initial call for Secretary Noem’s impeachment following the killing of Renee Nicole Good in January.

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Rep. Vasquez Statement on His Vote of Support for Iran War Powers Resolution

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On March 5, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) released the following statement on his vote of support for the Iran War Powers Resolution:

“This Administration took unilateral military action in Iran without the authorization of Congress, without providing a rational explanation to the American people, and without stating clear strategic goals or an exit plan. This type of reckless behavior is how America enters endless ‘forever wars’ that this Administration vowed to never start.”

“When the Administration puts our troops in harm’s way, asks Americans to foot the bill for a multi-billion dollar war, and fails to lower costs in our own country, we deserve answers, not extreme MAGA talking points. The American people deserve to have clarity and understand this Administration’s strategy—if there is one at all—and how it serves our interests.”

“That’s why I voted in support of the War Powers Resolution and urged my colleagues to do the same. This moment demands courageous and decisive action, putting country over party, and our full and serious attention.”

Watch Rep. Vasquez’s video statement here.

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Vindman Secures Key Provisions but Opposes Farm Bill That “Does Not Meet the Moment”

Vindman Introduces Bill to Restore Crucial Funding for Sickle Cell Disease Research

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representative Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) introduced legislation to restore staff and funding...

Vindman, Walkinshaw demand answers on uscis processing delays affecting ukrainians seeking humanitarian parole & work authorization requests

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) and James Walkinshaw (Va.-11) led a letter to U.S....

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

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07), August Pfluger (R-Texas-11), Michael Baumgartner...

Vindman and McClain Delaney Introduce Two Bills to Address Agricultural Conservation Workforce Shortages

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) and Congresswoman April McClain Delaney (Md.-06) introduced...

Vindman Joins Congressional Amicus Brief Supporting Veterans’ Access to Education Benefits

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (D-Va.-07) joined U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark R. Warner...

HUGE MILESTONE: Vindman’s Office Returns $5.1 Million in Backlogged Dollars to Constituents

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today announced that his office has now returned more than...

Vindman Delivers Whopping $1 Million Federal Investment to Build Pedestrian Bridge in Prince William County

Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, March 10, Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined local leaders in Prince William...

Vindman Celebrates Funding Secured for the Northern Virginia Community College Woodbridge Campus HVAC Program

Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, March 10, Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined Northern Virginia Community...

ICYMI: Vindman Delivers $1,200,000 in Federal Funding for Quantico Creek Flood Mitigation project

Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, March 10, Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined local leaders to...

ICYMI: Vindman Presents $250,000 to Stafford County for Leeland Road Safety Improvements

Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, March 10, Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined local leaders to...

ICYMI: Vindman Delivers More Than $1 Million to Spotsylvania County for Road Improvements

Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, March 10, Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined local leaders at the Historic...


Vindman Votes to Check Trump’s War of Choice, Support Bipartisan War Powers Resolution


Walkinshaw Blasts Trump OPM Proposal to Weaken Layoff Protections and Rig Federal Firings

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11) issued the following statement in response to the Trump Administration’s proposed Office of Personnel Management (OPM) rule changing federal reduction-in-force (RIF) procedures:

“For more than a year, the Trump Administration has attacked and intentionally traumatized federal employees—driving chaos across agencies and a workforce that keeps this country running.

Now, OPM plans to remove long-standing RIF protections by downgrading the role of seniority in the removal process, expanding who can be excluded from RIF procedures, and weighing only recent performance ratings—at the same time, the Administration is making those ratings easier to manipulate. This is not about merit—it’s about rigging the process so that the Trump Administration has free rein to dismantle a non-partisan civil service and fire any non-political, career employee that they arbitrarily deem as 'disloyal.'

This is a direct threat to the integrity of the civil service and to the quality of services Americans pay for with their tax dollars and rely on every day. I will continue to fight to protect federal employees and the nonpartisan workforce our democracy depends on.”

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Wasserman Schultz, Malliotakis, Shaheen Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Abuse Survivors from Housing Discrimination

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) and Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) introduced the bipartisan Fair Housing for Survivors Act, a vital legislative framework to help protect far more survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence and sex trafficking from eviction and housing discrimination. They were joined by 43 original cosponsors in the House, and U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), will lead this bicameral effort in the Senate.

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provides legal protections to trafficking and domestic and sexual violence survivors who live in public or Section 8-based housing. Yet the same eviction and discrimination safeguards do not exist for those who face similar abuses and seek housing in the private market. The Fair Housing for Survivors Act would build up current federal protections, expand them to private living accommodations, and encourage states to adopt similar measures.

“We cannot continue to force survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking into an impossible choice between forced confinement with their abusers, or living on the streets,” said Wasserman Schultz. “Even as they face daily abuse and exploitation, people are evicted or denied housing based on the outlandish grounds that they’re involved in criminal activity. Discrimination like this, which overwhelmingly hurts women and children, must end now. So, I’m very proud to work across the aisle to break this cycle of injustice and help people find safe harbor from abuse.”

“Every survivor of domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking deserves a safe place to call home,” said Malliotakis. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Fair Housing for Survivors Act to ensure survivors have the necessary resources to rebuild their lives free from abuse, protect them from unfair discrimination in the private housing market and provide them with support to escape abusive environments.”

“We know that people who have experienced sexual assault, domestic violence and sex-trafficking are more likely to face homelessness. At the federal level, we should be making every effort to help survivors heal – and access to safe, stable housing is a critical component,” said Shaheen. “I’m proud to introduce this commonsense bicameral legislation with bipartisan support to enhance existing protections so that survivors have the legal support they deserve to land on their feet and build better lives.”

According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, one in three women and one in four men experience violence or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime. Ninety percent of homeless women report severe physical or sexual violence in their lives, including sexual exploitation and trafficking. And 84 percent of survivors in domestic violence shelters reported that they needed help finding affordable housing, while more than half of victims who identified a need for housing services, did not receive them.

This legislation is endorsed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Freedom Network USA, the National Alliance to End Sexual Violence, the National Homelessness Law Center, the National Housing Law Project, the National Low Income Housing Coalition, the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV), and the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence.

If enacted, the Fair Housing for Survivors act would:


Wasserman Schultz Statement on Iran War Powers Resolution

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) released the following statement regarding her vote on H. Con. Res. 38:

“This Iranian regime is the most prolific sponsor of terrorism worldwide and its unrelenting nuclear ambitions and internal repression are incompatible with our security and values. As I said at the outset of this war, the Iranian regime is a sadistic, malevolent actor, unrepentant for their worldwide, murderous actions. For decades, it has armed and funded violent terrorist proxies, brutalized its own people, pursued ballistic missile capabilities, and exploited diplomatic negotiations to buy time while continuing its march toward nuclear weaponization. Iran’s rulers have American, Latin American, Ukrainian, Israeli, and Iranian blood on their hands.

“Unfortunately, as a Member of Congress, I was never given the opportunity to hear the case that an attack was imminent nor cast a vote. President Trump’s failure to seek Congressional authorization for this war against Iran sent our military into battle without an important strategic and unified approach, leaving our troops and our allies in grave danger. By failing to consult Congress or make the case to the American people, he left himself with a weaker hand and without an important tool that could have strengthened it.

“Thus far, it’s clear he failed to prepare to evacuate stranded Americans and failed to protect our servicemembers and allies from retaliation or equip them for prolonged conflict.

“If Trump had come to Congress for authorization and coordination, he’d have a better strategy and leverage to defeat this enemy. He had time to do that and chose not to. Instead, his negligence unleashed further global chaos and economic pain on our families.

“It’s become clear in the past several days that additional resources will be necessary to ensure our military success and our strategic objectives are achieved.

“As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, I will be actively engaged in ensuring that we provide the funding necessary to disable Iran from continuing its terroristic, lethal actions.

“I voted for this War Powers resolution because the military strength of the United States of America derives from the way we send our troops into battle - not hobbled by the refusal of a president to ensure the full strength of our nation through collaboration and consent but from a unified front through the efforts of the legislative and executive branch. Without that, the ability of the United States to accomplish strategic objectives in the region will be hindered. It is the sacred duty of Congress to arm our service members with the resources they need to protect themselves and our nation and one that I take very seriously and assign the highest priority.”

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Rep. Watson Coleman Rejects Another Non-Binding Resolution Brought Forth By House Republicans

Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) voted against H.Res. 1099, a non-binding resolution meant to distract from the Massie-Khanna War Powers Act.

It has become a pattern under Republican leadership of the House of Representatives for toothless, non-binding messaging resolutions to be brought to the floor that have no purpose other than political messaging, distract from more serious issues, and do nothing to solve the actual problems at hand.

“Today, we’re voting on a War Powers Resolution that will have life and death stakes for Americans and for the Constitution,” said Watson Coleman. “The question before this country is whether we want to commit to another regime change war in the Middle East, sacrificing our sons and daughters to the whims of a criminal president and his defense contractor donors. Additionally, we’re deciding whether to allow the President to get us into a war without the consent of the people’s representatives in Congress, as required by the Constitution. These are serious questions that will have serious consequences for our country a generation. To put forth a political messaging bill right now is an insult to the thousands of American troops in harm's way across the Middle East.”


Watson Coleman to Vote Against Restarting Funding for ICE

Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) will vote against HR.7744, legislation meant to fund DHS, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

“I have been very clear, I will not fund the illegal actions taken by ICE and CBP," said Watson Coleman. "This bill is the same failed legislation put forth in January, despite the lawlessness we’ve seen since then, including the killing of Alex Pretti. Attempts at even modest reforms have been blocked by the White House.

"I’ve cosponsored Congresswoman DeLauro’s Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, which would fund the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Transportation Security Administration, U.S. Secret Service, and the U.S. Coast Guard, but not ICE, CBP, or the Secretary’s office. Republicans have blocked any attempt at funding these agencies and rejected attempts at reforms at ICE and CBP.”


Watson Coleman to vote to stop Iran War

Today, Congresswoman Watson Coleman (NJ-12) will vote for the Massie-Khanna War Powers Act to put a stop to Donald Trump’s reckless and illegal war against Iran. Watson Coleman released the following statement:

This war is a crime committed against the American people. The American people did not vote for, did not ask for, and do not support a war with Iran. They understand that Trump is sending working-class kids to fight, and it is working-class kids who will suffer - both physically, spiritually, and economically - for decades.

The President has lied to the American people about the reasons for this war from the very start. We have been told this war was not about regime change, even though U.S. and Israeli forces specifically targeted and killed those who Trump thought would take over. We have been told this war was to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon after we had been told we had “obliterated” their nuclear program last summer. We have been told by some that this war was because Iran was planning attacks on the U.S., while other sources say they were not. We have been told this war was to free the Iranian people, and though I wish for freedom for the Iranian people, the administration has not taken any steps to ensure that freedom will come.

Meanwhile, the chaos that has ensued as our citizens have attempted to flee the region shows the State Department was unprepared to handle the inevitable fallout from the war - failing their number one responsibility: protecting Americans abroad.

Donald Trump is repeating many of the same mistakes we saw America make in Iraq and he is doing so without even attempting to appeal to the American people or their representatives in Congress. American lives have already been lost due to his reckless decision, and the blood of those soldiers who died is on his hands.

The founding fathers who wrote the Constitution vested Congress with the power to declare war - NOT the President. The President has violated the Constitution and, therefore, his oath, and in the process, thrown us into a war. For this reason alone, he should be impeached.

In the meantime, Congress must use every tool available to it to rein in this criminal president and put a stop to this conflict before it is too late. I will be voting in bipartisan Massie-Khanna War Powers Act to put a stop to this conflict.

I pray for the families of the service members who have lost their lives. I pray for the safety of those who have been sent to war. And for the millions of innocent civilians across the region who are caught in the crossfire.

I encourage Americans to keep them in their prayers. I also encourage the majority of Americans who oppose this war to make their voices heard; to mobilize to demand an end to this reckless war.

This is a government of, by, and for the people. The power of the people is greater than the people in power. We can stop this war before we find ourselves in another decades-long quagmire if we collectively and forcefully say, “No, we will not send our sons and daughters to die for Trump’s fragile ego. We will not sacrifice our democracy on the altar of profits for defense contractors. We will not let working-class kids fight and die for the supposed glory of leisure-class politicians. NO War With Iran.”