ICYMI: Buchanan, Tonko Highlight Alzheimer’s Prevention, Early Detection at Hill Interview

“You Need to be, in Today's World, the CEO of Your Own Health”

Advocates for ASAP Act, Early Screening and Support for Families

WASHINGTON — Yesterday, Congressman Vern Buchanan, Vice Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee and Chair of the Health Subcommittee, joined Rep. Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.) for an interview moderated by Kathleen Koch, contributing editor at The Hill, to discuss the importance of early detection, prevention and support for families battling Alzheimer’s disease.

Buchanan highlighted his bipartisan Alzheimer’s Screening and Prevention (ASAP) Act, which would expand access to blood-based biomarker testing and improve early diagnosis for patients.

Click here to watch Congressman Buchanan’s full interview.

Here’s what Buchanan said about Alzheimer’s prevention, early detection and support for families:

On prevention and early intervention

Koch: “So you are both co-sponsors of the ASAP Act. So could you give us a little bit more detail in what exactly it would do, the specifics of the act?”

Tonko: “In October of 25, The FDA approved what is one of the first blood-based biomarkers that determines whether or not there is a concern for Alzheimer's. If the amyloid count is indicated through that blood test, then they would be eligible with our bill for Medicare coverage...”

Buchanan: “I'm big on prevention. I think our whole healthcare system is backwards. We react to things instead of being proactive. My dad, unfortunately, had Alzheimer's. I lived through that for 10 or 12 years. ... It was a very difficult time for our family. ... The point is to get after these things in the early stages the best we can. That's why we're fighting for this. There’s a lot of momentum.”

On the impact of Alzheimer’s on families and caregivers

Koch: Congressman Buchanan, you were talking about early detection and how important that is for patients. But how important is that really also for caregivers, for families?

Buchanan: “For many families, it's a major, major struggle. ... We've got to find a way to work closer with people that have these challenges and do whatever we can to make a difference in their support.”

On rising health care costs and the need to be proactive

Buchanan: “We're spending $5 trillion a year ... and you can make the argument that we're getting sicker as a society. ... We've got to find a way to look at all of this ... and I think a lot of that starts with prevention. ... We've got to be more proactive on the front end. ... That's why I'm so excited about the bill that we've got together.”

Koch: “How do we really get that message to resonate and for Americans to really absorb that when it comes to prevention and lifestyle? Help people understand, you know, you may not have to take these medicines, receive these therapies, if you exercised, if you ate right, that lifestyle is so critical.”

Buchanan: “You need to be, in today's world, the CEO of your own health. ... I've got 10 grandkids. ... I'm fighting for their future as well in terms of what we're trying to do here today. But I think it all starts with prevention. ... You've got to do the annual things. ... Even if it just means something as little as getting a physical every January.”

On nutrition and lifestyle choices

Buchanan: “You've got to eat real food. That's part of the problem a lot of our food's highly processed. ... So we have to find a way to get people to be motivated to educate themselves and their children to make better choices. ...We make a lot of investments with our children, school programs, we've got to make sure they get good nutritional food.”

On bipartisan momentum behind Alzheimer’s policy

Koch: "I'm curious if either of you share the concern that my first guest did that because there is no 100% cure for Alzheimer's, that's behind this resistance to pay for these preventive tests."

Buchanan: “I'm bullish. I think we're going to move along, hopefully quicker than we have. We just need to galvanize and have a vision. ... There's a lot of momentum right now, more than I've ever seen ... and it's bipartisan. ... I think everybody's touched, they either know a family member or somebody in their community or a friend that's had Alzheimer's, and it just makes sense that we find a way to come together.”

On the urgency of addressing Alzheimer’s for future generations

Koch: “How important do you think it is, not only for current patients, but for future generations, you know, your grandkids in mind, that we get our hell in this disease that is taking such a toll?”

Buchanan: “I'm optimistic. I think we've got a lot of good people that are very motivated and very focused. I do think we have to have a clear plan on exactly where we're at and where we're going. Then let us ... and others plug into that and make a difference in our communities.”

Tonko: “I think one of the greatest commodities we can offer as a government is hope. The hope that comes by bringing these groups together. ... You see the purple brigade going through the halls of government. That's an impact. ... If you believe in Vern's bill and mine, the Alzheimer's Screening and Prevention Act, ASAP, please call your colleagues in the House and in the Senate ASAP.”

On momentum behind the ASAP Act and improving Alzheimer’s care

Koch: “What do you think your chances are of passage before you retire?”

Buchanan: “I'm very excited about it. We're going to get it done. ... There are things we can do to maybe slow things down diet, exercise, social ability. ... The problem in America is nobody cooks anymore at home. ... When you go and eat something at a restaurant, God only knows what you're eating.”

Koch: “I'm curious what your thoughts are on the implications if your bill doesn't pass soon, if action doesn't happen on these blood biomarker tests that are so critical. Because Alzheimer's cases are expected to double, double to nearly 14 million that's by 2050.”

Buchanan: “I've been on the health committee quite a while. We were spending $600 billion in Medicare. Today we're spending $1 trillion, too. ... Then on the Medicaid stuff ... all of a sudden, we're at $700, $900 billion. That's $2 trillion between the two programs, and it's quickly going to another level. We have to find a way to do more with less.”

In addition to being the Vice Chairman and most senior Republican on the powerful U.S. House Ways and Means Committee, Buchanan is also the Chairman of the Health Subcommittee, which has broad jurisdiction over traditional Medicare, the Medicare prescription drug benefit program and Medicare Advantage.

###


Reps. Castro, Kim Advance Bill Out of Committee to Counter China’s Growing Influence

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Yesterday, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) and Congresswoman Young Kim’s (CA-40) Securing Partner Supply Chains Act, which helps U.S. allies and partners build the tools to protect their economies from hostile foreign investment, passed out of the House Foreign Affairs Committee (HFAC) with bipartisan support.

“The United States has spent decades building robust tools to screen foreign investment for national security risks — but many of our partner countries have not, and that gap is being exploited by countries like China,” said Congressman Castro. “The bipartisan Securing Partner Supply Chains Act directs the State Department to give our partners the technical assistance and training they need to build their own investment screening tools and protect their sovereignty.”

“The Chinese Communist Party is using investment as a weapon to infiltrate and control America’s most critical supply chains,” said East Asia and Pacific Chairwoman Young Kim. “This bill gives our allies the tools they need to block malign foreign investment, protect their economic sovereignty, and reduce dependence on Beijing. If we want secure and resilient supply chains, we must stand shoulder to shoulder with our partners to push back on the CCP’s coercion.”

The bill directs the State Department to establish a three-year initiative on Foreign Investment Screening to protect partners and allies from China’s growing interest in strategic sectors like critical minerals, energy, and telecommunications.


THE CAUCUS ON BLACK WOMEN AND GIRLS AND THE JOINT CENTER FOR POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC STUDIES CO-HOST WHM BRIEFING ON BLACK WOMEN’S ECONOMIC SECURITY AND POWER

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

March 27, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT:

e: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov

c: 202.913.0126

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Representatives Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Robin Kelly (IL-02), and Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Caucus on Black Women and Girls, recognized Women’s History Month by partnering with the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies to co-host a briefing to examine the state of Black women’s economic security and power in the United States.

The event was the first in a three part series on the most pressing challenges faced by the Black women and girls of America. It brought together workforce development experts, education policy leaders, economic analysts, and Members of Congress to examine how persistent wage gaps, occupational segregation, capital access barriers, and educational inequities constrain economic mobility for Black women and impose measurable costs on our nation’s economic strength.

“We are incredibly proud to have partnered with the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies this Women’s History Month to bring the first part in our series on the hardships confronting Black women and girls face today, which have only worsened exponentially since the Trump Administration took power. It is a terrible tragedy that the disparities Black women face in our access to capital, education, power, and the American Dream itself are as wide today as they were decades ago, and that we must face the same trials that our mothers and grandmothers devoted their lives to defeating. But, as they overcame, so too shall we,” said the Co-Chairs. “Alongside our allies in the non-profit and private sectors, we will continue to give these necessary discussions the platform and audience they deserve. We look forward to the next briefing in this series, as well as the positive outcomes it will create for Black women and girls across our nation.”

“Black women are facing numerous economic challenges as the workforce shifts, education equity policies are being rolled back, and federal funding declines. Now is the time to continue to convene our experts, community leaders, and policymakers to ensure Black women and girls are not falling behind and these changes don’t widen existing economic gaps,” said Dedrick Asante-Muhammad, Joint Center President.

“Black women have always been foundational to this country, yet our contributions are often overlooked. This Women’s History Month briefing made clear that the economic wellbeing of our nation is directly tied to the wellbeing of Black women and girls. We cannot afford to leave our talent and our leadership behind. Our policies must reflect what the data shows us – when Black women thrive, America thrives,” said Sophia Kerby, Joint Center Vice President, Government Affairs. “We are very proud to partner with the Congressional Caucus on Black Women and Girls to bring this roundtable discussion together.”

“With the gender pay gap and the racial wealth gap compounding the burden of student debt, many Black women borrowers experience limited financial stability despite pursuing higher education. As federal systems face uncertainty and administrative changes, it is critical for policymakers, advocates, and community leaders to work together on solutions that protect borrowers, strengthen economic mobility, and ensure a more stable economy,” said Dr. Kayla Elliott, Joint Center Workforce Policy Director.

“Black women have always been on the front lines in the fight for political and economic justice. No effort to discount their achievements and contributions can erase their centrality to the social and economic fabric of this country historically or stop it going forward,” said Dr. Chandra Childers, Senior Policy and Economic Analyst, Economic Policy Institute (EPI).

“We are currently navigating a perfect storm of federal rollbacks that have hit Black women first and hardest. Recently, we released the Black Women’s Roundtable 2026 Federal Policy Agenda, our roadmap for protecting rights, freedoms, and democracy while advancing an economic justice, equity and opportunity agenda.

This agenda is critical because, as our recent co-commissioned research with the Black Opps Coalition underscores, our strongest weapon against these attacks is our vote. At today’s roundtable, we made it clear that we will not be sidelined by modern day poll taxes like the SAVE Act or the chaos of government shutdowns. Black women are the blueprint for safeguarding democracy. We are proving that a multi-generational, multi-racial coalition, led by Black women, is key to protecting democracy and ensure our economic security,” said Melanie L. Campbell, President & CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation and National Convener of the Black Women’s Roundtable (BWR).

Shavon Arline-Bradley of the National Council of Negro Women and Shannan Herbert of the Washington Area Community Investment Fund, Inc also provided their expert testimony at the event.

View pictures from the event here.

###


Congressman Clyburn Requests FY27 Funding for South Carolina Community Projects

As an unabashed advocate for the Sixth District of South Carolina and one who champions investments that enhance educational opportunities and promote economic development, Rep. Jim Clyburn requested direct federal funding for the community projects listed below:


Congressman David Scott Requests Nearly $32 Million in FY2027 Community Project Funding Priorities for Georgia’s 13th District

WASHINGTON D.C. - Today, Congressman David Scott (GA-13), a senior member of the House Agriculture and House Financial Services Committees, announced a list of twenty Community Project Funding priorities in the 13th Congressional District for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 appropriations cycle.

Each Fiscal Year, Members of Congress can request Federal funding from the House Committee on Appropriations for up to fifteen community projects in their home districts. As part of that process, Congressman David Scott solicited requests through stakeholder meetings and member level engagement and submitted the list of projects outlined below. These Federal dollars provide vital resources to improve transportation and water infrastructure, enhance public safety, and help veterans access lifesaving health care.

“In every vote I cast and every bill I fight for, my focus is simple: delivering results for the people I represent in the 13th District,” said Congressman David Scott. The nearly $32 million in Federal funding I have requested is going directly back into our neighborhoods—to repair roads, modernize schools, expand access to clean water, and create good-paying jobs. These priorities represent crucial investments in infrastructure and services that will strengthen our communities and bolster local economies for Georgians. I look forward to working closely with officials from across the district on each request to ensure we address the needs of the hard-working families we serve.”

Congressman Scott’s projects include:

Project: Gwinnett Hidden Forest Water Main Replacement

Description: The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners would use this funding to replace and construct approximately 4,500 feet of pipe to replace substandard drinking water distribution mains in the Hidden Forest neighborhood.

Project: Newton County Alcovy Pump Station Improvement Project

Description: Newton County would use this funding to replace existing raw water pumps, repair the Alcovy Pump station deck, and install new electrical feed equipment to increase water supply by 4.5 million of gallons per day.

Project: Lawrenceville Redland Creek Greenway – phase I

Description: The City of Lawrenceville would use this funding to develop a pedestrian and multi-use trail connecting downtown Lawrenceville and the Gwinnett County Discovery Park, ensuring ADA accessibility.

Project: Stockbridge Willow Springs Drinking Water Replacement Project

Description: The City of Stockbridge would use this funding to replace failing water distribution pipes and replace lead service lines with new, lead-free service line.

Project: Gwinnett Accessible Pedestrian Upgrades Project

Description: The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners would use this funding to make several pedestrian improvements in high-traffic areas, including the installation of accessible pedestrian signals, crosswalk infrastructure and curb ramps.

Project: Rockdale County Trail and Parks Safety Project

Description: Rockdale County would use this funding to install safety cameras at parks, trailheads, and along trails in the county and purchase all-terrain vehicles to improve safety and security within Rockdale County parks and trails, deterring vandalism and illegal dumping while assisting law enforcement with reliable footage and allowing parks staff to patrol trails.

Project: Clayton Police Department Real Time Crime Center Expansion Project

Description: The Clayton County Police Department would use this funding to upgrade its real-time crime center, including closed circuit television monitoring, license plate reader systems, flock camera integration, real-time video monitoring and analytics, and data sharing equipment.

Project: Henry County Schools Food Hub Project

Description: The Henry County Public Schools Foundation would use this funding to establish a no-cost, school-based food hub, including installing shelving, refrigeration inventory-tracking software, and other equipment needed to develop a food hub.

Project: Jonesboro Accessible Playground Project

Description: The City of Jonesboro would use this funding to make upgrades to Massengale Park, a park centrally located near one of the busiest commercial areas in the city, to improve accessibility under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Project: Rockdale County Accessible Outdoor Improvements – Phase I Project

Description: Rockdale County Public Schools would use this funding to implement phase I of a capital project improving access to outdoor learning and community-facing school spaces, including for students with disabilities.

Project: Stockbridge Willow Springs Clean Water Project

Description: The City of Stockbridge would use this funding to replace wastewater infrastructure in the Willow Springs Neighborhood. Specifically, the project will replace 2,245 linear feet of force main and upgrade manhole and air release infrastructure.

Project: Snellville Downtown and Briscoe Park Connecting Trail Project

Description: The City of Snellville would use this funding to develop 2,000 linear feet of paved trail to connect Briscoe Park with Snellville’s newly revitalized downtown to provide greater access to downtown Snellville, connecting private business, community centers, and recreational opportunities.

Project: Newton County Health Equipment Project

Description: The Newton County Board of Commissioners would use this funding to purchase Stryker Cardiac Monitors, Lucas CPR Devices and training units, and service plans for the devices to allow Newton County first responders to better respond to public emergencies and provide critical care.

Project: Gwinnett County School-Based Health Center

Description: Gwinnett County Public Schools would use this funding to renovate a school-based health center and purchase capital equipment including exam tables and high intensity lighting to provide health services to Gwinnett students.

Project: Lovejoy Multi-Modal Safety & Economic Connectivity Project

Description: The City of Lovejoy would use this funding to improve pedestrian and commuter safety along commercial corridors, including sidewalk connectivity, pedestrian crossing improvements, installation of lighting infrastructure, and ADA-compliant ramps.

Project: Lovejoy Public Safety Equipment Project

Description: The City of Lovejoy would use this funding to purchase police cruisers, license plate readers, a radar unit, laser speed detection devices, and storm warning system software to better enforce laws, respond to crime, and inform law enforcement operations during extreme weather events.

Project: Regional Impact Health Foundation Workforce Development and Health Support Mobile Unit

Description: The Regional Impact Health Foundation would use this funding to purchase a 38-foot mobile unit including private intake rooms, a medical exam room, ADA accessibility features, wheelchair lift, check-in station, and cabinetry to provide job placement services, physical therapy, and behavior health support.

Project: Rockdale County Fire Safety Training Complex Project

Description: Rockdale County would use this funding to construct a Fire Safety Training Complex to allow local law enforcement and other first responders to train in fire safety more easily, improving recruitment and retention and helping first responders better respond to fire emergencies.

Project: University of Georgia Research Infrastructure

Description: The University of Georgia would use this funding to purchase lateral-move irrigation systems, upgrade electrical and control systems, and purchase research and data collection systems to improve agricultural research and practices in Georgia.

Project: MARTA Mobility Paratransit Fleet Modernization and Reliability Initiative

Description: The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority would use this funding to replace two MARTA Mobility paratransit vehicles that have exceeded their federally defined useful life to provide paratransit services for individuals with disabilities.


Dingell Announces More Than $20 Million in Health Care Funding for the University of Michigan

Today, U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) announced she secured $20,323,488 in federal grant funding for the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor to support a wide range of research initiatives, including aging, nursing, neurological disorders, cancer, and more. The funding comes from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and was made possible by Congresswoman Dingell’s advocacy.

“I am proud to have secured this federal funding to bolster the University of Michigan’s leadership in research and innovation.” said Congresswoman Dingell. “These federal grants are a powerful investment in the health, safety, and well-being of our communities, and I will continue working to deliver federal resources to Michigan that secure better treatments and improve patient outcomes.”

Projects receiving funding include:

$3,824,37 for Pharmacology Physiology and Biological Chemistry Research

$2,382,662 for Diabetes Endocrinology and Metabolic Research

$2,063,918 for Cancer Research

$4,278,492 for Clinical Research Related to Neurological Disorders

$613,304 for Biological Research Related to Deafness and Communicative Disorders

$42,632 for Allergy Immunology and Transplantation Research

$312,000 for Oral Diseases and Disorders Research

$99,747 for Senior International Fellowship Awards Program

$666,732 for Nursing Research

$1,369,591 for National Center for Sleep Disorders Research

$2,881,291 for Human Genome Research

$1,732,842 for Aging Research

$32,130 for Research for Mothers and Children

$43,588 for Drug Abuse and Addiction Research Programs

A full list of projects receiving grant funding can be found HERE.


De La Cruz Leads the Strengthen Taxpayer Rights Act

WASHINGTON - In the height of tax season, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) introduced the Strengthen Taxpayer Rights Act alongside Congressman Zach Nunn (IA-03). The legislation codifies taxpayer protections to ensure the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) appeals process is always fully independent and not tilted against the taxpayer.

"The Strengthen Taxpayer Rights Act gives American taxpayers the certainty that their appeals process will be fair and independent. Tax season can be complicated enough; Americans need less, not more, bureaucracy when appealing an IRS decision.” - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

“The IRS shouldn't be judge and jury in its own cases. The Strengthen Taxpayer Rights Act restores common-sense protections so that when an Iowan appeals an IRS decision, the process is truly independent, not predetermined by the same agency that made the call.” - Congressman Zach Nunn

The legislation has garnered support from the National Taxpayers Union (NTU) and the Taxpayers Protection Alliance (TPA).

Background:

Building on the Taxpayer First Act of 2019, De La Cruz's legislation restores the historical independence of the IRS appeals process by ensuring that enforcement personnel cannot join conferences without taxpayer consent.

While these sessions were traditionally neutral, a 2016 policy shift allowed IRS Counsel and Compliance to participate, even over a taxpayer’s objection. By codifying these protections, the Strengthen Taxpayer Rights Act ensures the Independent Office of Appeals remains a fair and unbiased forum for all taxpayers.


House Republicans Vow to Continue Airport Chaos

Today, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) released the following statement on House Republicans continuing the Department of Homeland Security shutdown.

“House Republicans couldn’t take yes for an answer. After the Senate unanimously agreed to a bipartisan funding deal, Speaker Johnson caved to the far right and will continue the Homeland Security shutdown with a pointless vote on a bill that the Senate has rejected multiple times.

“The deal was simple – end the pain for TSA workers and the outrageous security lines at our airports, and fund TSA, FEMA, and the Coast Guard while we continue to push for the reforms at ICE that the American people are demanding. Democrats are fighting for basic safeguards to protect Americans’ lives and liberties from this rogue agency, including requiring judicial warrants, no more masks, and mandating body cameras.

“The Senate bill is the same offer Democrats put on the table weeks ago and have been working to force a vote on in the House. We should abandon this pointless House Republican proposal and move forward with a vote on the bipartisan funding deal to end this shutdown.”


Congresswoman Escobar Co-Sponsors Bipartisan  Love Lives On Act to Support Military Families

Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) joined 144 other Members of Congress, led by Richard Hudson (NC-9), in cosponsoring the Love Lives On Act — bipartisan legislation to ensure surviving spouses of fallen service members and veterans do not lose critical benefits if they choose to remarry.

Under current law, surviving spouses who remarry before the age of 55 lose access to key benefits they rely on to support themselves and their families. The Love Lives on Act would eliminate this penalty, allowing surviving spouse to retain benefits such as Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) annuities, and other Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Department of Defense (DoD) benefits regardless of remarriage age. The bill would also restore TRICARE eligibility for remarried surviving spouses if that subsequent marriage ends.

"For far too long, surviving spouses have been forced to choose between financial security and finding love again,” said Congresswoman Escobar. “That is an unfair and deeply outdated burden to place on families who have already sacrificed so much for our country. The Love Lives On Act ensures that surviving spouses can move forward in their lives without fear of losing the benefits they earned through their loved one’s service.”

Military families in communities like El Paso understand the lasting impact of service and sacrifice. By removing barriers to stability, this legislation helps ensure that surviving spouses and their children can continue to access the support they need.

The Love Lives On Act reflects a bipartisan commitment to honoring the sacrifices of service members by supporting the families they leave behind, without conditions.


Rep. Valerie Foushee Votes Against GOP Continuing Resolution That Puts ICE Funding Over Long-Term Security For TSA Workers

WASHINGTON, DC (March 27, 2026) — Today, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04) released the following statement after voting against a Continuing Resolution presented by House Republican leadership. The U.S. Senate has already passed a Funding Package for the Department of Homeland Security that omits funding for ICE.

“While TSA workers are set to miss anther paycheck and ICE continues to terrorize immigrant communities, House Republicans rebuffed the Senate’s Homeland Security funding package that omits ICE funding. Instead, they are attempting to push through a 60-day funding package that fails to provide long-term security for TSA employees and continues to fund ICE,” said Congresswoman Valerie Foushee. “I refuse to vote for further funding for ICE. Though I am disappointed to see Congress refuse to respond to Trump’s inhumane immigration enforcement, Republicans can no longer pretend that their partial shutdown is about supporting federal workers—it’s about supporting ICE, and ICE only."


Frankel Statement on Pending House Department of Homeland Security Bill

Today, Rep. Lois Frankel released the following statement after Republican House leadership refused to take up a bipartisan Senate-passed bill to reopen the majority of the Department of Homeland Security.

“I am appalled that Republican House leadership is refusing to take up the bipartisan Senate-passed bill, which would reopen most of the Department of Homeland Security and ensure TSA officers and other essential workers are paid,” said Rep. Frankel. “For more than six weeks, these hardworking Americans have gone without a paycheck while continuing to keep us safe. Instead, House Republicans are bringing up a bill that the Senate has already declared dead on arrival, which is nothing more than political theater. It won’t reopen the government, it won’t pay workers, and it won’t move us toward a real solution. Congress should act now to pay these workers and get back to serious negotiations on reining in ICE immigration enforcement.”


Franklin Statement On DHS Funding Vote

Congressman Scott Franklin (FL-18) released the following statement after the House voted to advance a continuing resolution to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS):

“Tonight, the House voted to fund the entire Department of Homeland Security and support the men and women who protect our nation every day.

“The Senate’s proposal was inadequate. It left critical gaps, failed to support key personnel, and weakened core missions like border security, immigration enforcement and cybersecurity. It was not a serious path forward.

“Our approach is straightforward. Pay every DHS employee. Restore full operations. Ensure every mission, from securing the border to responding to disasters, has the resources it needs.

“As an appropriator, I will not accept funding national security halfway and defunding law enforcement. Partial security isn’t security at all.

“The House has done its job. Again. I urge the Senate to act and fully fund DHS.”


Mar 27, 2026
Fulcher Signs Letter to Block Federal Funding for Transgender Experiments on Animals in the FY27 Spending Bill


Gooden Backs Trump’s AI “Genesis Mission” to Boost U.S. Innovation, Counter China

WASHINGTON – Congressman Lance Gooden (TX-05) sent a letter to Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Chris Wright expressing strong support for the Genesis Mission, a landmark initiative to deploy artificial intelligence (AI) across America’s scientific ecosystem and strengthen U.S. competitiveness against China.

In the letter, Rep. Gooden emphasized that rapid AI integration is critical to maintaining American leadership in energy, technology, and innovation while reducing reliance on Chinese supply chains and countering Beijing’s growing influence in advanced research.

“America must lead the world in innovation, not fall behind the Chinese Communist Party. The Genesis Mission accelerates AI-driven discovery, strengthens our energy future, and ensures the U.S. drives the next generation of technological breakthroughs,” said Rep. Gooden.

An excerpt from the letter:

“President Trump’s November 2025 Executive Order launching the Genesis Mission leverages the full potential of American National Laboratories, technology, and industry. Private sector innovators play a critical role in ensuring the United States remains the global leader in emerging technologies. The DOE’s rapid response to President Trump’s call to action by entering into new research partnerships with organizations at the forefront of health, energy, manufacturing, and technological innovation is commendable. This thoughtful collaboration will harness the unique combination of government resources and industry expertise to accelerate innovations that will benefit Americans for generations to come.”

The letter is cosigned by Reps. Michael McCaul (TX-10), Pat Harrigan (NC-10), Troy Nehls (TX-22), Cory Mills (FL-07), Robert Wittman (VA-01), Victoria Spartz (IN-05), Jack Bergman (MI-01), and John McGuire (VA-05).

The letter was featured in anexclusive by the Washington Reporter.

Read the full letterhere.


ICYMI: Gottheimer, Kean Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Raise Awareness for Rare Genetic Disorder, Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome

WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) and Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-7) announced new bipartisan legislation to designate November 7 of each year as National Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome Awareness Day, helping amplify awareness of a rare genetic condition that affects an estimated 2,000 Americans.

Shwachman-Diamond syndrome (SDS) is a rare, often underdiagnosed condition that impacts approximately 1 in 80,000 newborns. The disease affects the body’s bone marrow, pancreas, and skeletal system, and increases the risk of serious blood disorders, including acute myeloid leukemia. Because symptoms vary widely, diagnosis often requires extensive clinical evaluation, bloodwork, and genetic testing. While treatments can help manage complications, there is currently no cure, and SDS can shorten life expectancy.

“Families facing rare diseases like Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome don’t have time to wait — and neither can we. We must boost funding for research and strengthen and expand clinical trials,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “I am proud to fight for this bipartisan and commonsense legislation. Families can’t wait. We have a responsibility to push forward until we deliver real hope — and ultimately, a cure.”

“For those living with incredibly rare conditions like SDS, shining a spotlight is the first step toward promoting research and advancing treatment,” said Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-7). “Joyce Fitz, a Linden resident, has dedicated herself to fighting for recognition for her community, and when she came to my office with this idea, it was clear we needed to spread awareness on the national level. Every individual living with SDS deserves to have their daily fight recognized, and I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort to make that a reality.”

The effort to establish a national awareness day was led by Joyce Fitz, a 17-year-old advocate from Linden, New Jersey, and a senior at the Union County Academy of Allied Health and Sciences. After nearly two years of searching for answers, Joyce was diagnosed with SDS and has since navigated the challenges of living with a complex, immunocompromised condition — including bone marrow biopsies, frequent specialist visits, and ongoing uncertainty.

“As a young advocate living with Shwachman Diamond Syndrome I know what it means to face a rare disease with no cure and limited treatment options,” said Joyce Fitz. “Patients and families tackle the daily burdens of complex medical care and uncertainty living with a condition most medical professionals have never even heard of.

“It means the world to me that when I spoke up for my SDS community, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. truly listened and chose to stand by me on this journey towards bringing national recognition to this disease. Establishing a National Shwachman Diamond Syndrome Awareness Day is the first step to ensure my community is seen, while bringing us one step closer to the research, treatments, and ultimately a cure that patients are waiting for,” Joyce added.

Joyce selected November 7 to mark the month the disease was first identified in 1964, as well as the most common gene mutation (7q11) associated with SDS. A similar resolution has already been introduced in the New Jersey State Assembly.

Congressman Josh Gottheimer serves as a member of the bipartisan Congressional Rare Disease Caucus and as Co-Chair of the Congressional Sarcoidosis Caucus.

###


Houlahan Introduces WARRIOR Act to Protect Military Women in Combat

“We know from history that women have always had the grit and courage to face enemy fire, fight, lead, and rescue their fellow service members. Today's women have met and exceeded the standards for military service, including the grueling male standards for combat arms,” said Sue Fulton, Executive Director of WiSCI. “Five thousand women currently serve in these roles; and while they have met these challenging physical standards, they have often outpaced their peers with superior problem-solving skills, maturity, and long-term endurance. Women have made our military stronger, smarter, and better across the Services – and in the past ten years, they have made our tip-of-the-spear fighting force – infantry, armor, artillery, combat aviation – stronger, smarter, and better. We can’t afford to weaken our fighting forces by disqualifying people based on someone’s personal feelings or ideology.”

“We have more than a decade of data, thousands of women in combat arms, and zero evidence that women weaken the force. In fact, the opposite is true. Women have met the standard, exceeded it, and proven their place on the battlefield. Reopening this question now is a distraction at best and a threat to military effectiveness at worst,” said Janessa Goldbeck, CEO, Vet Voice Foundation. “If you sideline qualified warfighters because of extremist ideology, you don’t get a stronger military, you get a weaker one. Vet Voice is proud to support the WARRIOR Act. We applaud Representative Houlahan’s leadership and urge all Members to come together and pass this important bill without delay.”

"Service members have been meeting rigorous, job-specific standards for decades, particularly in operational and combat roles where requirements are tied to mission demands. This legislation affirms that service members must meet the standards required to succeed in today’s military and recognizes that excellence is defined by skill, performance, and ability, not gender,” said Lindsay Church, Executive Director of Minority Veterans of America. “Military readiness is best ensured by allowing every qualified person the opportunity to serve in any role, including in combat."

“Since the founding of our nation, women have proudly and honorably served in defense of our country. This commonsense update to gender-neutral occupational standards reflects what we already know to be true: women are a force multiplier across the military,” said Dr. Kyleanne Hunter, CEO of IAVA. “As the fastest-growing group of recruits, ensuring women remain eligible to serve in all roles is not only grounded in science—it’s essential to our national security. IAVA is encouraged to see standards that reflect both our nation’s mission and the modern force that serves it.”


Jayapal Hosts Hearing on Trump’s Attacks on Immigrant Children and Families

Full video of the hearing can be found HERE.

WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration, Integrity, Security, and Enforcement, today hosted a hearing titled Kidnapped and Disappeared: Trump’s Attack on Our Children.

“Today, I hosted the seventh hearing in my series Kidnapped and Disappeared, focusing on the immense trauma that Trump and his Department of Homeland Security have caused to our children. In the first seven months of Donald Trump’s term, more than 11,000 US citizen children have had a parent detained. That means that every single day, 50 US citizen children, on average, have had a parent detained,” said Jayapal. “Having a parent kidnapped and disappeared is bad enough. But too often, ICE is using violence to arrest parents right in front of their children or even as “bait” as we saw with the horrific case of 5-year old Liam Ramos — the young child with the bunny ears hat that galvanized attention across the country. I thank our incredible witnesses for being here today to shine a light on the pain that Trump is causing.”

“Over the past 20 years, I have watched children in immigration custody go from being a largely invisible population with few legal protections to a highly politicized population of children whose rights are being systematically dismantled. This is part of a calculated effort, outlined in Project 2025, to reverse decades of hard-fought protections for some of the most vulnerable children in this country,” said Neha Desai, Managing Director of Children’s Human Rights & Dignity, National Center for Youth Law.

“Unaccompanied children shouldn’t be used as bait, they shouldn’t be used as political pawns, and they’re not ‘invaders’ as Stephen Miller would have us believe. They’re children, and they deserve to be treated like children and afforded protection and safety, not detention and deportation,” said Marion (“Mickey”) Donovan-Kaloust, Director of Legal Services, Immigrant Defenders Law Center (ImmDef).

“When children miss out on healthcare, it can turn routine pediatric issues into emergencies. Detaining caregivers and separating them from their children causes stress and removes a child’s primary source of safety and comfort. The experience of separation or the threat of separation creates fear, anxiety, and stress. No amount of time spent in ICE detention is safe for a child,” said Dr. Tania Caballero, Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at John’s Hopkins Medicine.

“Our students and their families are deliberately terrorizing and traumatizing our neighbors and their children. It’s a massive letdown that there are no checks and balances to stop a hateful administration trying to erase minority races. These stories aren’t being covered in the news. The stories are deeply painful and personal and most of the country doesn’t know the extent and consistency of the damage. I feel heartache, absorbing all these traumatic stories, I cannot even comprehend the suffering those at higher risk must feel. I am grateful I was able to share just some of those stories today, and more people and leaders will hear these life changing issues,” said Nicole Isern, Educator.

“At 16, I never thought I would ever need to attend my local city council meeting, but I summoned the courage, with God’s and my family’s help, to share the pain we were feeling in our community and to fight for our rights. Today, I’m 17-years-old, and never would I have imagined being in the most powerful building in the country, to share the pain that our town is experiencing, and to plead for your help,” said Manny, a 17-year-old US citizen and student activist.

This was the seventh shadow hearing in this series, each of which has focused on a different aspect of immigration oversight. The others have focused on Trump’s assault on Minnesota, detention abuses, Trump’s assault on Chicago, families that have been torn apart, unlawful third-country deportations, and efforts to undermine due process.

Jayapal was joined by Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Christian Menefee (TX-18), Kelly Morrison (MN-03), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Andrea Salinas (OR-06).


Jayapal Statement on DHS Funding NO Vote

WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration, Integrity, Security, and Enforcement, released the following statement after voting NO on House Republicans’ Department of Homeland Security (DHS) continuing resolution.

“I have been clear since the start of the appropriations process: I will not vote to give Trump’s ICE or CBP another cent without major reforms. ICE and CBP agents have killed American citizens on the streets, terrorized communities, and forever traumatized families and children. Republicans in the House and Senate continue to refuse to implement any meaningful reforms — it appears they want ICE and CBP to continue their lawless reign of terror against American families and communities.

“In the face of this Republican refusal, Democrats have called for weeks to pass funding for everything except ICE and CBP so that TSA agents, FEMA, and the Coast Guard, among other agencies, can get funded. Finally, Senate Republicans saw the light and did just that last night in a unanimous consent vote. However, House Republicans know just how to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory and refused to pass the unanimous Senate bill, instead passing a ridiculous proposal to kick the can down the road for another 60 days with a bill that has absolutely no hope of passing the Senate. Late on a Friday night, Republicans are using procedural tricks to pass their proposal that stalls any progress and leaves TSA unfunded, without any debate before the American people. This will only extend this crisis and create yet more chaos and cruelty for the American people.

“It is time for House Republicans to get to work and bring the Senate bill to a vote so we can pass it and fund TSA, FEMA, and the Coast Guard.”


JOINT LEADERSHIP STATEMENT ON REPUBLICANS REFUSING TO END THE AIRPORT CHAOS

Know Your Immigration Rights

If you or a loved one encounter immigration enforcement officials, it is essential that you know your rights and have prepared your household for all possible outcomes.

Ask for a warrant: The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. You do not have to open your door until you see a valid warrant to enter your home or search your belongings.

Your right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You are not required to share any personal information such as your place of birth, immigration status or criminal history.

Always consult an attorney: You have a right to speak with an attorney. You do not have to sign anything or hand officials any documents without speaking to an attorney. Try to identify and consult one in advance.

The New York City Office of Civil Justice and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) support a variety of free immigration legal services through local nonprofit legal organizations. To access these resources, dial 311 and say “Action NYC,” call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365 Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or visit MOIA’s website.


LEADER JEFFRIES FLOOR REMARKS OPPOSING REPUBLICAN BILL FUNDING ICE BRUTALITY AND CONTINUING AIRPORT CHAOS

Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries spoke on the House Floor against House Republicans’ DHS funding bill that refuses to hold ICE accountable and subjects Americans to increasingly more airport chaos.

LEADER JEFFRIES: I rise today in strong opposition to this partisan political stunt that Republicans have brought to the Floor, masquerading as legitimate legislation. There’s a bipartisan bill that if brought to the Floor today can end the 42-day Trump-Republican shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security. Republicans have concluded that they would rather continue to force TSA agents to work without pay, inconvenience millions of Americans all across the country and create chaos at airports. Why is this happening? It’s because Republicans have chosen to continue to authorize spending billions of taxpayer dollars to brutalize or kill American citizens like Renee Nicole Good or Alex Pretti or to violently target law-abiding immigrant families.

Mr. Speaker, we believe that immigration enforcement in this country should be fair, just and humane. That’s not what’s happening right now. ICE is out of control. The American people know it, which is why changes need to be made that are bold, meaningful, dramatic, transformational and common sense at the same period of time. Instead, Republicans have chosen to double and triple down on their extremism, on their brutality and on their violence that has been unleashed on everyday Americans all across the country.

Now, there’s a bipartisan bill sent over from the Senate. Every single Senate Democrat, every single Senate Republican supported that legislation. It would reopen the TSA, reopen FEMA, reopen the Coast Guard, reopen the ability for our cybersecurity professionals to do their job, while at the same time allowing for discussions—tough negotiations—to continue. On one side of that negotiations are my Republican colleagues who want to continue to spend taxpayer dollars to brutalize and kill American citizens, unleashing masked, untrained ICE agents, in some cases storming homes of everyday Americans, ripping them out of their beds in the middle of the night, ripping children away from their families, detaining people in inhumane conditions, refusing to allow state and local authorities to investigate ICE violence and brutality in ways that will be designed to bring about accountability.

This debate, at the end of the day, is really all about: Do you want to compel ICE to conduct themselves like every other cop, police officer or law enforcement agency in the country? Or do you want to continue to spend billions of taxpayer dollars to violently target American citizens and law abiding immigrant families? We choose the American way—fair, just and humane. Now, many of my Republican colleagues have come to the Floor to suggest that this legislation is about defunding ICE. That’s a stone cold lie. Because we know that in the Republican One Big Ugly Bill, which ripped away Medicaid from 14 million Americans, the largest cut—almost a trillion dollars—to Medicaid in American history, at the same period of time, extremist Republicans in their One Big Ugly Bill enacted a $186 billion cut to nutritional assistance—literally ripped food from the mouths of hungry children, seniors and veterans.

And why did Republicans do that in their One Big Ugly Bill? In part, to provide their billionaire donors with massive tax breaks that they did not need and did not deserve. And, at the same period of time, give the Department of Homeland Security $191 billion—watch this—$75 billion in a slush fund to ICE. Is that defunding? No. The One Big Ugly Bill defunded Medicaid. It defunded nutritional assistance for everyday Americans. It defunded some affordable housing programs. It defunded the ability for everyday Americans who are struggling under Republican policies to actually afford their utility bills. That was the defunding that has taken place in this chamber during this Congress.

Defunding ICE? How do you stand up here as Republicans and say that to the American people with a straight face when you gave ICE a $75 billion slush fund and then turned around and gave CBP a $65 billion slush fund in the same One Big Ugly Bill? The reality is that we can end this shutdown—this 42-day extreme Trump-Republican shutdown—today if Republicans had the courage and the patriotism to actually bring a bipartisan Senate-passed bill to the Floor, which would pass this chamber with Democratic and Republican votes, maybe not the extremists, but it would pass with Democratic and Republican votes.

Mike Johnson has chosen to say no to a bipartisan bill so he could say yes to continuing to force TSA agents to work without pay. Mike Johnson has said no to a bipartisan bill so he can say yes to continuing to inconvenience millions of the American people across the country. Mike Johnson has said no to a bipartisan bill so House Republicans could say yes to chaos at airports all across the country. Mike Johnson has said no to a bipartisan bill so House Republicans can continue to say yes to ICE brutality. Mike Johnson has said no to a bipartisan Senate-passed bill so House Republican could continue to say yes to ICE violence. Mike Johnson has said no to a bipartisan Senate-passed bill so House Republicans could continue to say yes to the corruption that we’ve seen at the Department of Homeland Security. Mike Johnson has said no to a bipartisan Senate-passed bill that would reopen the Department of Homeland Security so House Republicans could say yes to the Freedom Caucus, which is clearly driving the train here.

And it was amazing to me that, at the Rules Committee, you had some Republican Members try to lecture America about Article I and separate and co-equal branches of government. Really? You want to talk about the House and the Senate? I’m not interested in that debate. Let’s talk about the difference between Article I and Article II. Because the framers of this Constitution designed the Article I branch, the Congress, to be the first amongst equals. That’s not how House Republicans have been acting from the very beginning of this Congress.

Instead, House Republicans running around this town acting like nothing more than a reckless rubber stamp to Donald Trump’s extreme agenda. And that’s what’s happening right now. Because what House Republicans want to do is to continue to fund Donald Trump’s violent extreme mass deportation machine that has resulted in the death of at least three American citizens. Lecture us about Article I and Article II. You’ve got to be kidding. And so, Mr. Speaker, I’m going to continue to speak truth to power on this Floor as a duly elected Member. And the more you stand, the longer I’ll speak. And so, our view is very clear. We can reopen this government today if you bring to the House Floor a bipartisan Senate-passed bill today because as Democrats, we believe that immigration enforcement in this country should be fair, it should be just and it should be humane.

Donald Trump promised to target violent felons who are here illegally. That’s what Republicans promised. You’ve broken your word. It’s American citizens and law-abiding immigrant families who are being targeted violently by untrained and masked ICE agents. Our position is pretty clear. Let’s pay TSA. Let’s fund FEMA. Let’s fund the Coast Guard. Let’s fund our cybersecurity professionals. Stop holding the American people hostage to an extreme right-wing agenda. Taxpayer dollars should be spent to make life more affordable for the American people.

That’s what Democrats will continue to focus on in an environment where life has become more expensive under the extreme policies that President Trump and House Republicans continue to jam down the throats of the American people. The Trump tariffs, increasing costs on everyday Americans by millions of dollars in totality, thousands of dollars per year for everyday Americans as a family. House Republicans have refused, Senate Republicans refused, Donald Trump refused to do anything to make life more affordable. Housing costs are out of control. Healthcare costs are out of control. Grocery bills are out of control. Gas prices are out of control because Republicans have decided to get us into a reckless war of choice in the Middle East, spending billions of dollars to drop bombs in Iran.

Mr. Speaker, we’re here dealing with a partisan spending bill that the Senate has already indicated is dead on arrival. And so Republicans have taken the decision to own this shutdown decisively. There is no doubt—as Ranking Member Jim McGovern stated earlier—there is no doubt as to why we are still facing a shutdown that is inflicting pain and chaos and uncertainty on the American people.

So I rise in strong opposition to this so-called spending bill—dead on arrival—that will do nothing, accomplish nothing other than continuing the shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security and the chaos that Republicans have unleashed in airports all across America. House Democrats are going to continue to fight for what is right. We’re going to continue to fight to lower the high cost of living, fix our broken healthcare system, clean up corruption, stop this reckless war of choice in the Middle East, get ICE under control, pay TSA, end the chaos at these airports and end this national nightmare that Donald Trump and Republicans are inflicting upon the American people.

Vote no against this partisan political stunt. Let’s say yes instead to a bipartisan bill that would reopen the Department of Homeland Security, end the chaos at airports and stop the inconvenience of the American people.

Full Floor speech can be watched here.

###


LEADER JEFFRIES ON CNN: “WE WANT REPUBLICANS TO STOP HOLDING TSA AGENTS AND AIR TRAVELERS HOSTAGE TO THEIR EXTREME IMMIGRATION AGENDA”

Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on CNN’s The Lead, where he emphasized that House Republicans are prolonging the painful government shutdown by blocking bipartisan legislation to end the shutdown.

PHIL MATTINGLY: Leader Jeffries, really appreciate your time. Just to start with—the administration moving forward on this executive action to pay TSA agents. Given the pain that they’ve faced, is that something you support, given the fact there doesn’t seem to be any legislative outcome coming soon based on House Republicans?

LEADER JEFFRIES: We called for Donald Trump to do this weeks ago. Donald Trump and Republicans have now shut down the Department of Homeland Security for 42 days. They forced TSA agents to work without pay. They’re inconveniencing millions of Americans and they’re creating chaos at airports all across the land. Donald Trump for weeks claimed he did not have this authority. Of course he did. But what we need to happen right now is for House Republicans to bring bipartisan legislation that was unanimously passed by the Senate to the Floor so we can end this Trump-Republican shutdown today.

PHIL MATTINGLY: Leader Jeffries, one of the questions that I’ve gotten often that I have a difficult time explaining the rationale is, look, ICE is paid right now on the mandatory side. They are funded right now based on the President’s policy proposal that Congress signed into law on Republican-only votes last year. What is the fight? Is this about ICE, or is this purely a negotiating mechanism, a vehicle to get the negotiation that you want on ICE restrictions?

LEADER JEFFRIES: You are correct that ICE has a $75 billion slush fund that was part of the Republican One Big Ugly Bill that was enacted by Republican-only votes last year, where at the same time, they ripped Medicaid away from the American people and stole food from the mouths of hungry children, seniors and veterans with a $186 billion cut to nutritional assistance. So there’s a continuing fight about policy priorities. House Democrats believe that taxpayer dollars should be spent to make life more affordable for the American people, not to brutalize and kill American citizens or violently target law-abiding immigrant families. At the same period of time, we want Republicans to stop holding TSA agents and air travelers hostage to their extreme immigration agenda.

PHIL MATTINGLY: Do you believe there is any pathway at this point to actually secure the enforcement-related changes Democrats were pushing for that led to this in the start?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Yes, because the American people are demanding that immigration enforcement in this country be fair, just and humane. We want to compel ICE to conduct itself like every other cop, police officer and law enforcement agency in the country by enacting changes that are bold, meaningful, dramatic and common-sense at the same period of time. That’s what the American people have demanded Congress do because the American people are rejecting the notion that billions of dollars are being spent to brutalize, target and kill them. That’s not acceptable in this country. It’s one of the reasons why Donald Trump’s policies, his mass deportation, violent, extreme agenda, is so deeply unpopular.

PHIL MATTINGLY: I want to play some sound from Republican Congressman Chip Roy from earlier today. Take a listen.

RECORDING OF REP. CHIP ROY: It is absolutely offensive to the people that we represent that the Senate would send over a bill that doesn’t fund Border Patrol and the core components of ICE. And the fact that they would expect us to take that up and pass it today as they leave town? I mean, could the Senate be any more lazy than to send to us a bill that doesn’t do the job and then leave town?

PHIL MATTINGLY: I do want to preface this with it is a universal view in the House, bipartisan, that they don’t like the Senate all that much, and oftentimes would characterize it, maybe not publicly, as lazy, as you just heard from the Congressman there. My better question is, as a Leader, watching the Speaker and Senate Majority Leader John Thune end up in this position, how does that happen?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, House Republicans continue to fight with Senate Republicans while Democrats are fighting to make life better for the American people. Chip Roy should know that in the One Big Ugly Bill that he supported, $65 billion in a slush fund was given to Customs and Border Patrol. They have more than enough money to continue to do the types of things that they have been charged to do under law. But what shouldn’t be happening is that CBP agents shouldn’t be commandeered by ICE to actually target, violently brutalize or, in some cases, kill the American people. ICE is well-funded, CBP is well-funded, but Republicans have decided that they don’t want to get ICE under control, which is why they have shut down DHS, shut down TSA effectively, shut down FEMA and shut down the Coast Guard so that they can continue to jam their extreme ideology down the throats of the American people.

Full interview can be watched here.

###


Whip Clark: “Republicans Refuse To Take Yes for an Answer”

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) joined Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY-8) and Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar (CA-33) to denounce House Republicans' refusal to fund TSA, FEMA, CISA, and the Coast Guard. Below are excerpts of her remarks:

On House Republicans’ DHS Shutdown:

"There’s no reason for TSA to be shut down. There’s no reason for FEMA and our Coast Guard to still be unfunded. There’s no reason for travelers to be waiting in absurdly long lines.

"We could have voted — today, yesterday, last week, last month — to open every part of [the] Department of Homeland Security that actually keeps Americans secure. That’s what we’ve been fighting for for weeks. That is what the Senate passed unanimously this morning. But House Republicans refuse to take yes for an answer.

"In fact, Mike Johnson said that this bill is a 'joke!' That's another classic we can add to their lines about how they feel about the American people and what they are going through right now. We can add it to: 'Affordability is a hoax.' Donald Trump on gas prices going up a dollar a gallon: 'When they rise, they rise.' 'I will declare no new wars if elected president.' And the impact of all of this on consumers is 'the last of our concerns.'

"None of this is a joke. All of this has real-world consequences for American families. And the same day that they’re refusing to fund our cybersecurity, they learn that Iran has hacked the Director of the FBI.

"Republicans won’t fund TSA or FEMA or the Coast Guard — unless we greenlight more terror in our communities. That’s what they care about. That’s more important to them than anything else: Funding ICE and the paramilitary force they've turned into.

"So if you have ever doubted, for a moment, how craven the House Republicans really are, today you have your answer."

On the GOP’s Betrayal of the American People:

"We have a discharge petition that has been active and live.

"They're not only rejecting the bipartisan bill. They know this is a continuation of the shutdown because the Senate is gone. The Senate is gone. So, they know full well what they're doing.

"They're saying: 'We want the status quo. We are so eager to keep ICE going exactly as they're operating in their reckless and unlawful and violent way. That's our priority over that of the American people.'

"And the other portions that this bipartisan bill would've funded are important to the security of our country. It's beyond TSA workers who should never have had to go without a single paycheck. What about our cybersecurity experts? What about the Coast Guard? What about those people who work in our ports and our customs? What about FEMA that this administration has been dismantling and now wants to continue to allow to be unfunded?

"I mean, it is hard to take in the level of how far House Republicans have come to be removed from the people who sent them here to govern on their behalf. It is such a betrayal of their own voters and of the American people in total."

To watch the full press conference, click HERE.

# # #


Whip Clark on GOP Shutdown: "This is a Battle Between Common Sense and Crazy"

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) spoke on the House Floor, slamming Mike Johnson and House Republicans for choosing to continue their TSA shutdown. Below is a transcript of her remarks:

"Yesterday, Speaker Mike Johnson said that November will be a choice between common sense and crazy. And today, he’s proven himself right! This is a battle between common sense and crazy.

"On the one side, we have a bipartisan bill to reopen TSA. Reopen the Coast Guard while we are at war. Reopen FEMA ahead of hurricane season. Reopen our cybersecurity agency before the FBI gets hacked again. Reopen all the agencies that actually keep people safe. That’s common sense. That’s what Democrats are advocating for.

"Crazy is wanting to keep all that shut down. All of it. So that masked ICE agents can keep kicking down doors without warrants. So they can keep committing acts of terror in our communities.

"House Republicans had the easiest possible path to put people first. Vote for a bill that every Senate Republican voted for this morning. All they had to do was get out of the way, and they couldn’t bring themselves to do it.

"This is a battle between common sense and crazy. And the American people know which side the Republicans are on — and it's not the side of the people of this country."

To view the full speech, click HERE.

# # #


Joint Leadership Statement on Republicans Refusing to End the Airport Chaos

Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark and Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar issued the following statement:

For more than 40 days, Donald Trump and Republicans have subjected the American people to chaos at our airports. They shut down the Department of Homeland Security so that ICE could continue to brutalize the American people without consequence. Instead of working in good faith to reach an agreement to reopen the government, GOP extremists decided to cause chaos at airports and force TSA agents to work without pay, jeopardizing the safety of the American people.

After weeks of Republican obstruction, there is now bipartisan legislation that has passed the Senate that funds the TSA, Coast Guard, FEMA and our cybersecurity professionals.

The only thing standing between the American people and a much-needed end to the airport chaos is House Republicans. The House should consider the bipartisan DHS funding bill immediately.

###


Congressman Kennedy’s Statement on House Republicans Rejecting Bipartisan Deal to End DHS Shutdown

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Tim Kennedy released the following statement following House Republicans’ decision to block the bipartisan agreement to end the shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS):

“President Trump, Speaker Johnson, and House Republicans have made it clear to the American people that they own this shutdown. By rejecting a bipartisan bill unanimously passed by the U.S. Senate, they are demonstrating, once again, their inability to govern. Instead of restoring order at our airports and ensuring workers are paid, they are pushing voter suppression and endorsing ICE brutality upon the American people.

“I was prepared to vote yes on the bipartisan Senate bill to fund TSA, FEMA, and the Coast Guard to safeguard our homeland’s security and end the madness at our nation's airports. Instead, I was forced to vote against a hyperpartisan bill that gives even more money to ICE with no assurances that this out-of-control agency that is terrorizing communities will follow the law or the Constitution.

“House Democrats, Senate Democrats, and Senate Republicans are prepared to reopen our government and deliver for the American people. Speaker Johnson must bring the Senate bill to the floor immediately and end this shutdown.”

###


Kiggans Joins Cline to Protect State Law Enforcement Cooperation with Federal Immigration Services

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Rep. Jen Kiggans (VA-02) signed on as an original co-sponsor of Rep. Ben Cline’s (VA-06) 287(g) Cooperation Act of 2026 to strengthen federal-local immigration enforcement partnerships by requiring state and local law enforcement agencies to enter into a 287(g) memorandum of agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as a condition of receiving Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grants.

Congresswoman Kiggans said, “The Virginia Governor’s decision to cease cooperation between state law enforcement and federal immigration services is reckless and puts our law enforcement personnel at a significant disadvantage as they work every day to protect our communities. After years of unprecedented illegal crossings at our southern border, we must ensure that law enforcement is equipped with the resources they need to keep us safe. I am proud to join Rep. Cline on this effort to strengthen cooperation between federal and state authorities, restore accountability, and ensure our law enforcement agencies can do their jobs effectively and safely.”

Read the bill here.

Background:


Advocating for Veteran-Owned Small Businesses

This week, I had the opportunity to speak on my new bill, H.R. 7795, during the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations’ recent hearing. H.R. 7795, also called the VA SUBCON Act, will create a database of veteran-owned small businesses and service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses for VA to pull from when hiring subcontractors. This bill prioritizes our veterans and increases the likelihood of their small businesses acquiring government contracts through VA! If you would like to watch the hearing, click here; and if you would like to read up on my bill, click here.


American Samoa Friends

I was happy to meet with Robert Uhrle, Consultant for Economic Development to American Samoa Governor Nik Pula. We discussed ways the American Pacific Islands can cooperate on issues of mutual concern on the government and grassroots level. Thank you Robert!


Catch Up with Kim -- March 27, 2026 -- Letter from the Congresswoman
March 27, 2026
Newsletters
Image
Back to top button


CNMI’s Dylan Mister Makes Waves with OCC Volleyball

We are proud to read about the CNMI’s own Dylan Mister and his journey to make the men’s volleyball team at Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, California. Dylan has long been an active volleyball player in the CNMI, representing our islands in international competitions and competing in local tournaments before taking his talents off island. He worked hard, earned his spot on the team, and is now contributing on the court for the Pirates in one of the most competitive junior college volleyball environments in the country. It’s great to see him featured in the college’s online news publication. Congratulations to Dylan for representing the CNMI so well. Go Pirates!

Image


Critical habitat proposed for 22 NMI species

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has opened a public comment period for a proposed critical habitat for 22 species found in the Northern Marianas. The proposed critical habitat includes 59,887 acres across the CNMI and Guam, covering Saipan, Tinian, Rota, Aguiguan, Alamagan, Asunción, Pagan and Sarigan. The proposed critical habitat is for Slevin’s skink (guali’ik halumtåno, gholuuf), the Pacific sheath-tailed bat (fanihin gånas), four land snails, three insects and 13 plants. All 22 species are listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act, and a full list of the species can be found in the Federal Register. The primary threats to listed species in the Mariana Islands are invasive species and habitat loss. Additional threats include urban development, drought, wildfires and natural events such as typhoons, earthquakes and tsunamis. It is important to note critical habitat designations only affect federal agency actions or federally funded or permitted activities. Critical habitat designations do not affect activities by private landowners that have no federal connection, such as federal funding or federal permits required to carry out the activity. To submit a public comment, go to regulations.gov, search FWS-R1-ES-2024-0194, and enter your thoughts as a comment.


Discussing Birthright Citizenship with NPR

On Tuesday, I spoke with NPR reporter Juliana Kim to discuss issues impacting the CNMI and the broader national conversation on birthright citizenship. During our discussion, I shared perspective on birthright citizenship in the CNMI, ongoing immigration challenges unique to our islands, and the severe economic conditions facing our workforce and recovery. I emphasized the importance of grounding policy debates in facts, highlighting both misconceptions and the distinct circumstances facing the CNMI. I appreciate the opportunity to ensure our community’s voice is part of the national dialogue.


Hafa Adai yan Tirow Rep. Bice

Rep. Stephanie Bice (R-OK) and I met on Thursday to discuss a range of issues, with a focus on the Marianas’ struggling economy and misconceptions surrounding federal visitor policies unique to the islands. We also explored ways we can work together to address these challenges and support our communities.


I was proud to cosponsor a House Resolution recognizing 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists. The Year celebrates rangelands and pastoralists like our Tinian cattle ranchers that use our natural grasslands to produce food and other animal products. A recent study found that Tinian’s cattle industry creates $4.8 million for the local economy annually. This was the result of years of work by Tinian’s cattle ranchers and partners to rebuild the local ranching industry, and I look forward to helping it continue to grow in the years ahead.


Small Business Committee Hearing on the Chinese Communist Party

On Wednesday the Small Business Committee held a hearing entitled “Defending Main Street: Combating the CCP Threats to American Small Business”. The witnesses discussed both the vulnerabilities small businesses face from Chinese economic statecraft, but also what proactive measures the U.S. government should be taking to better help American small businesses compete with China’s extensive economic support scheme for their own small businesses in critical sectors. I questioned the witnesses on how the federal government could assist the CNMI government and small businesses to better evaluate potential national security risks from foreign investment, to add more certainty for local businesses and foreign investors, and to enhance our national security.


On Thursday I was pleased to meet with Martha Tenorio and Erica Pangelinan from the Southern Guam Soil & Water Conservation District. We discussed common funding issues for environmental conservation in the CNMI and Guam and how we could cooperate to secure more resources for environmental health in the Marianas. Thank you, Martha and Erica!


T&I Committee Unanimously Passes ALERT Act

On Thursday, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee unanimously approved its portion of the Airspace Location and Enhanced Risk Transparency (ALERT) Act, bipartisan legislation aimed at strengthening aviation safety across our national airspace system. For the CNMI, reliable air travel is essential to our economy, tourism industry, and access to healthcare and education. The ALERT Act responds to lessons learned from the tragic 2025 midair collision near Washington, D.C., and implements a comprehensive package of safety improvements. It directs the Federal Aviation Administration to equip commercial planes and helicopters near busy airports with advanced collision avoidance systems (ACAS Xa and ACAS Xr), integrate Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast-In (ADS-B In) technology to enhance pilot situational awareness, evaluate helicopter flight paths, improve “see-and-avoid” training for controllers and pilots, and audit FAA safety practices. The bill advanced out of committee with bipartisan support and now moves to the full House for consideration.


Welcoming Friends from the Marshall Islands to the Capitol

On Wednesday, our friends from the Marshall Islands, Dixie Lomae Paul, Debra Barker-Manase, Taann Kabua-Demapan, Lorraine Kaneko, Ayako Yamaguchi-Eliou, and Kay L. Wase, visited the D.C. office. They were then taken on a tour of the Capitol by my staff and visited the historic chambers in the Capitol. It is always great to welcome our Marshallese friends to D.C.!


Working to Improve the VA Home Loan Program

This past week, the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity met to discuss the VA Home Loan Program for the first time since 2024. My colleagues and I spoke with VA witnesses to learn how we can improve this program through meaningful legislation. Of course, I discussed my bill, H.R. 3720, the Heroes Owning and Materializing Equity Act. This bill, also called the HOME Act, would offer financial counseling services to veterans in the process of buying a home. Further, this bill will create a database of homes adapted to meet the needs of disabled veterans for veterans to utilize when house hunting. Click here to watch the hearing, and click here to read more about my bill.


Yokwe, Marshall Islands.

Republic of the Marshall Islands Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Kalani Kaneko, and Senator and Special Envoy for Compact Implementation, Wilbur Heine, met with me on Wednesday in Washington. Our discussion focused on implementation of the 2024 Compact of Free Association (COFA) agreements with the United States, as well as the shared challenge of ensuring U.S. veterans returning to the Republic of the Marshall Islands can reliably access Department of Veterans Affairs services. Thank you for your visit. I look forward to continuing our collaboration to strengthen support for veterans and improve conditions across Micronesia.


Rep. Loudermilk Once Again Votes to Fully Fund DHS

Washington, D.C. (March 27, 2026) | Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA) issued the following U.S. House vote on restoration of funding for the Department of Homeland Security:

“For weeks, good faith attemps have been made by Republicans in the House to reach a bipartisan agreement, but Democrats have rebuffed these attempts as they seek to hold American workers hostage in order to prevent federal law enforcement from carrying out their duty to keep our borders secure and remove illegal aliens and known terrorists from our country.

“Early Friday morning, the Senate passed partial funding legislation that still leaves ICE and Border Patrol without proper resources at a time when protecting the American homeland is of the utmost importance. Today, I have once again voted to fully fund all aspects of DHS, including CBP and ICE.”


Congressman McGarvey Condemns “Miscarriage of Justice” in Letter to AG Pam Bondi, Citing Continued Federal Interference by Trump’s DOJ to Undermine Justice for Breonna Taylor

“Breonna Taylor is dead, and your department’s decision to walk away from this case means there will be no accountability for how the fatal raid began or for the officers involved.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 27, 2026) – Today, Congressman Morgan McGarvey sent a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi after a federal judge dismissed charges against former officers involved in the fatal raid of Breonna Taylor’s home in 2020, demanding the Department of Justice stop interfering with and undermining Louisville’s efforts to deliver justice for Breonna Taylor’s family.

Last week, the DOJ requested dismissal of the charges alleging two former Louisville officers knew they lacked probable cause to search Ms. Taylor’s apartment and intentionally drafted and swore to an affidavit that contained false statements and material omissions.

“The DOJ’s decision to walk away from this case and their argument that it is somehow ‘in the interest of justice’ is insulting given the Trump administration’s persistent undermining of police and justice reform efforts here in Louisville and its utter abandonment of any kind of civil rights enforcement nationwide,” the Congressman wrote to AG Bondi.

McGarvey pointed to a pattern of federal interference since the beginning of the Trump administration to undermine accountability for the fatal shooting.

“One of the president’s very first actions after taking office was to begin the process of invalidating Louisville’s consent decree, from which he eventually withdrew the federal government a few months later,” McGarvey continued.

In addition to the latest dismissal of charges, last year the DOJ recommended Brett Hankison serve only one day in prison of his nearly 3-year sentence and be released from prison during a pending appeal.

“Louisville has spent six years working towards justice for Breonna and her family,” wrote McGarvey. “We will continue that work, regardless of federal interference or your efforts to stop us.”

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD LETTER

Letter Text:

Dear Attorney General Bondi,

I write to express my profound opposition to the Department of Justice’s decision to dismiss the federal cases against Joshua Jaynes and Kyle Meany, former Louisville Metro Police Department officers accused of falsifying the no-knock warrant that led to Breonna Taylor’s death in March 2020. It is not “in the interest of justice” to walk away from this case; it is a miscarriage of justice. The Department of Justice must stop interfering with and undermining Louisville’s efforts to deliver justice for Miss Taylor’s family and atone for her death as a community.

On March 13, 2020, Breonna Taylor, a 26-year-old Louisville EMT who aspired to become a neonatal nurse, was shot and killed in her home by officers of the Louisville Metro Police Department executing a no-knock warrant. The warrant affidavit that led to the search was prepared by Detective Joshua Jaynes and approved by Sergeant Kyle Meany. The Department of Justice has alleged the officers knew they lacked probable cause to search Ms. Taylor’s apartment and intentionally drafted and swore to an affidavit that contained false statements and material omissions.

I understand prosecutors have faced several setbacks in their efforts to bring felony civil rights charges against Meany and Jaynes pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 242. I am not a jurist, and I will not use this letter to comment on the wisdom, or lack thereof, of the court’s decision in this case to impose the strictest causation and mens rea standards possible to the chain of events that led to Miss Taylor’s death. I must, however, condemn your department’s decision to use those setbacks as an excuse to withdraw entirely from the case. Regardless of the court’s willingness to entertain the argument that Jaynes and Meany’s alleged crimes directly resulted in the fatal shots being fired, this fact remains true: Breonna Taylor is dead, and your department’s decision to walk away from this case means there will be no accountability for how the fatal raid began or for the officers involved.

The DOJ’s decision to walk away from this case and their argument that it is somehow “in the interest of justice” is insulting given the Trump administration’s persistent undermining of police and justice reform efforts here in Louisville and its utter abandonment of any kind of civil rights enforcement nationwide. One of the president’s very first actions after taking office was to begin the process of invalidating Louisville’s consent decree, from which he eventually withdrew the federal government a few months later. Your department’s Civil Rights Division, the very federal agency charged with protecting and securing justice for Miss Taylor and victims like her, recommended that Brett Hankison, an officer who fired ten blind shots through Taylor’s windows and doors, serve only one day in prison following his conviction by a federal jury. This pattern is not unique to Louisville. In Minneapolis and Memphis and so many more American cities, your Department of Justice has made clear that it is not interested in protecting the rights and freedoms of Black people, especially victims of police violence.

Louisville has spent six years working towards justice for Breonna and her family. We will continue that work, regardless of federal interference or your efforts to stop us.

###

Congressman Morgan McGarvey represents Kentucky’s Third Congressional District, including Louisville and Jefferson County. He serves on the House Veterans Affairs, Small Business, and Budget Committees.


Congressman Christian D. Menefee Statement on House Republican Leadership Blocking TSA Funding

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Christian D. Menefee (TX-18) released the following statement as House Republican leadership continues to block a vote on TSA funding.

"The dysfunction from Republican leadership is on full display. Last night, Democrats successfully got Senate Republicans on board to support a funding deal that is basically the same as what we have been pushing for weeks: fund TSA immediately and leave the question of ICE funding for another day. And now House Republicans are standing in the way, refusing to call a vote on a deal already approved by Senate Republicans, and letting TSA workers continue to go without pay for no good reason.

Republicans control the federal government right now: the White House, the House, and the Senate. They can end this now. House Republicans need to call a vote on the Senate deal so that we can fund TSA immediately.

I have Bush IAH in my district. I was out there this week. I talked to travelers stuck in hours-long lines and workers who have been showing up without a paycheck for more than 40 days. They are exhausted, frustrated, and they deserve better than this.

House Republicans need to call the vote. Pass the Senate deal. Pay TSA workers and give them their back pay. There is no excuse left."

###

About Congressman Christian Menefee (TX-18)

Rep. Christian D. Menefee represents Texas’s 18th Congressional District, covering communities across the Houston area. He was sworn into office on February 2, 2026.


Rep. Rogers Supports Defending American Property Abroad Act

WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (AL-03) released the following statement after House passage of the Defending American Property Abroad Act of 2026:

“I was proud to support the Defending American Property Abroad Act on the House Floor today. US companies must be able to conduct business in the world marketplace without fear of unlawful expropriation. This issue hits close to home for Alabama companies as the Mexican government continues its attempts to seize a port owned by Birmingham-based Vulcan Materials. This is just one example of the nightmare scenario many US-based companies face. Every day countries are allowed to seize American property undeterred, our country’s national and economic security is threatened. This legislation ensures protection for American companies as they operate throughout the Western Hemisphere, and I look forward to President Trump signing it into law.”

###


Congressman Griffith’s Weekly E-Newsletter 3.27.26

In my Easter column from last year, I discussed the importance of prayer.

Different communities of faith routinely embrace prayer and reflection.

I respect every community of faith and freedoms that permit exercising one’s religion of choice. For me and my family, we rely on prayer to grow as Christians.

When voting in DC, I join both House Democrats and House Republicans in attending a weekly prayer breakfast on Capitol Hill. While the politics of the day may put us at odds, the prayer breakfast is an opportunity for lawmakers to leave these policy differences aside, come together for our spiritual growth and reflect via prayer.

One recent prayer breakfast featured the testimony of former Democrat Congressman Bill Sarpalius of Texas. All former members are welcome. Congressman Sarpalius and others attend regularly.

I never served with Sarpalius, but I have heard him speak previously when sharing details of his personal and spiritual journey.

His life story is documented in his 2018 book, The Grand Duke from Boys Ranch.

“Boys Ranch” in Texas served as Sarpalius’ first real home during his upbringing. “Boys Ranch” provided stability for a kid whose family suffered immense struggles.

A man named Cal Farley led “Boys Ranch,” and he was a hero for the boys sent there. All the boys respected him.

Farley’s goal was to help the bottom rung of boys, the lowest of the low that nobody wanted. For so many of these boys who struggled to find love, “Boys Ranch” became their family.

“Boys Ranch” served Sarpalius well. He finally had access to food, an education and a stable family.

One day, Sarpalius was to give a sermon during a church service. It was his first public speech. He was nervous and uncertain. Farley reassured Sarpalius before the service that he would do just fine.

As Sarpalius nervously awaited to deliver his sermon, which was entitled “Are You Prepared for Death?” he noticed Farley suddenly fell out of his pew. Farley was rushed to the hospital.

The entire congregation went on with the service, but everyone’s thoughts centered on Farley.

Sarpalius, who still had to deliver his sermon and suspected Farley would not survive, ditched his prepared remarks in favor of an unrehearsed script. Sarpalius spoke from his heart about Farley’s life and his importance to the boys of “Boys Ranch.”

After the service, news broke that Farley had in fact died. Farley’s loss dealt a great blow to Sarpalius and his “Boys Ranch” family.

Sarpalius’ time at “Boys Ranch” came to a close months later, but what he learned from the Ranch prepared him well for life. Sarpalius credits his time at “Boys Ranch” for everything he has accomplished.

That includes a successful career in public office that eventually took him to Congress.

While a Congressman, Sarpalius had a visitor who informed him that part of his family was Lithuanian. As a result, he became a fierce advocate for the breakup of the Soviet Union’s Marxist/Communist Party in Lithuania.

Accordingly in 1990, President Bush sent Sarpalius to Lithuania to observe the Lithuania elections. Sarpalius was present in Lithuania the night that the Marxist/Communist Party fell.

Sarpalius was present when the new government created their constitutional government. The Americans shared our founding documents with them and the Lithuanians used this input.

Because of his advocacy, the Lithuanians would later name Sarpalius an honorary Grand Duke of the country.

Further, on that victorious night, crowds flooded the streets in jubilation. The churches, which had been ransacked and shuttered under Marxist/Communist rule, were revived.

Lithuania’s Cardinal, who had been under house arrest for more than 30 years, came out of solitary confinement and delivered Mass at a cathedral in Vilnius.

Everyone cried. After decades of Soviet oppression and quashed freedoms of religion and human rights, the people of Lithuania could exercise freedom, congregate and practice their faith!

Similar to the dark times that Lithuania faced under Soviet rule, Jesus’ crucifixion cast darkness over the land.

Jesus, born into the world to save us from our sins, was sentenced to death, died on a cross and was buried.

Believers of Jesus wept, mourned and agonized over the death of their savior.

But on the Third Day, Jesus rose again. He was resurrected!

This Easter season, I will reflect on how prayer and faith guided Congressman Sarpalius throughout his life. I will also pray for those communities that during times of darkness maintain their faith.

Happy Easter! He is Risen!

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

###


President Trump Signs Bill to Authorize Medal of Honor for Maj. James Capers Jr.

WASHINGTON — President Trump signed into law H.R. 3377, legislation that authorizes the President to award the Medal of Honor to retired U.S. Marine Corps Major James Capers, Jr., for his extraordinary heroism during the Vietnam War.

Major Capers, a native of Bishopville, South Carolina, distinguished himself through repeated acts of valor in 1967 while leading a Marine reconnaissance team near Phu Loc, Vietnam. During a devastating ambush, Capers sustained severe wounds but refused to evacuate, continuing to lead his Marines under intense enemy fire and ensuring the survival of his entire team. Only after every member of his team had been evacuated did he allow himself to be removed from the battlefield.

“Today, we right a decades-long wrong and honor a warrior who embodies the very best of America,” said Congressman Norman. “Major James Capers, Jr. risked everything while gravely wounded to save his fellow Marines. Our veterans are the heart and soul of our nation, with Major Capers’ selflessness representing the highest ideals of our Armed Forces. He has given everything to protect our freedoms. And he deserves to be properly recognized.”

Originally recommended for the Medal of Honor following his actions in Vietnam, Major Capers’ recognition was delayed for decades due to administrative and procedural obstacles. Congress acted in a bipartisan manner to waive statutory limitations and ensure his heroism is properly recognized.

The legislation, led by Congressman Norman, passed both the House and Senate earlier this year before being sent to the President’s desk.

“Since coming to Congress in 2019, helping secure the Medal of Honor for Major James Capers, a decorated veteran and true American hero, has been a top priority of mine,” said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. “Major Capers valiantly fought in Vietnam, sustaining combat injuries under heavy fire. He deserves this recognition, and it is my honor to work alongside Congressman Ralph Norman to vigorously advocate for it. Mr. Capers is a shining example of the incredible bravery our service members possess, and I hope to see the Medal of Honor awarded to him.”

The Medal of Honor is the United States’ highest military award, reserved for those who go above and beyond the call of duty at the risk of their own lives. Major Capers’ actions on the battlefield exemplify the very spirit of this distinction and serve as an enduring testament to American courage and sacrifice.

The formal Medal of Honor ceremony will be announced at a later date.


Rep. Pettersen Statement on Republicans’ Ongoing DHS Shutdown

Today, U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) released the following statement after House Republican Leadership refused to allow a vote on Senate-passed legislation to fund the majority of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) – including Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The legislation excluded funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Patrol (CBP).

For weeks, Democrats have called for Republicans to fund the critical agencies and offices under DHS that serve the American people as tens of thousands of TSA workers were forced to work without pay. The prolonged partial government shutdown led to staffing shortages and historic airport delays nationwide only expected to get worse as the impasse continues.

“For more than 40 days, Republicans and Donald Trump have forced hardworking federal employees – including TSA officers who are already understaffed and overworked – to work around the clock without receiving a paycheck. Then, once Trump was no longer standing in their way, Republicans in the Senate did the right thing and worked with Democrats to pass legislation to pay our TSA agents, FEMA, and members of the Coast Guard.

“Let’s be clear: House Republicans are holding our federal employees hostage by refusing to move forward with this bipartisan legislation. This dysfunction means more mayhem at our airports and more suffering for the American people.

“There is no excuse for this constant chaos. This is not how our government is supposed to work, and it only undermines trust both here at home and abroad. Our country is completely and utterly exhausted by their incompetence.”

Rep. Pettersen consistently called for legislation to fund all agencies and offices – including TSA and FEMA – within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) except for ICE and CBP. Additionally, she signed a discharge petition to force a vote on this legislation after House Republican Leadership refused to move the bill forward.

Pettersen has also consistently voted against Donald Trump’s anti-immigrant agenda, including opposing over $75 billion in funding for immigration enforcement in the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” She also supports legislation to require DHS and ICE officers to clearly identify themselves during enforcement actions, legislation that would reinstate protections that bar ICE from conducting immigration enforcement in sensitive locations, including churches, schools, hospitals, and non-immigration courts, and has demanded accountability from DHS.