Case, Tokuda Introduce Resolution To Congratulate The 2026 National Collegiate Champion Volleyball Team The UH Men's Rainbow Warriors

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Representatives Ed Case (Hawai’i-01) and Jill Tokuda (Hawai’i-02) today introduced a resolution in the U.S. House to congratulate the University of Hawaii’s Rainbow Warriors for winning the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s (NCAA) men’s volleyball national championship on Monday.

“I join my Congressional delegation teammates and all throughout our country and world who call our Hawai’i home in extending my deepest congratulations and ‘chee-hoos’ to the Rainbow Warriors for winning it all and showing everyone our own home-grown version of grit and resilience in the face of adversity,” said Rep. Case.

“Wherever we are, your die-hard Rainbow Warrior fans will always have your back and will cheer you and your fellow ‘Bows on each and every year because you are truly ‘Our Team, Hawaii’s Team’.”

"By bringing home another NCAA Championship, the UH Men’s Volleyball team has further established itself as a powerhouse program, and once again brought immense pride to our entire state because when the Bows win, all of Hawaiʻi wins,” said Rep. Tokuda. “Congratulations to all the players, Coach Wade, and the dedicated staff for showing the nation what Hawaiʻi's student-athletes can achieve through hard work, perseverance, and true teamwork. You’ve made us all proud to be part of the Rainbow Warrior ‘ohana."

A companion resolution has been introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Brian Schatz and Mazie Hirono.

House resolution is here.

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Casten, Meeks Demand Accountability for Crypto-Financing of Terrorist Groups

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Sean Casten (IL-06) and Gregory Meeks (NY-05) demanded information from the Trump Administration on how it is enforcing the 2023 plea agreement with Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange. This follows recent public reporting indicating that Binance facilitated $1.7 billion worth of cryptocurrency transactions to flow from Chinese-owned accounts to digital wallets linked to Iran-backed terrorist groups, including the Houthi militants in Yemen.

“We are alarmed by public reporting that Binance permitted more than $1 billion in cryptocurrency transactions to flow to Iran-backed and U.S.-designated terrorist groups through its platform,” the lawmakers wrote. “...These apparent failures to enforce the terms of the 2023 agreement are par for the course, given Binance’s extensive financial ties to a cryptocurrency company backed by President Trump and his family.”

Binance and its former CEO pled guilty to violating U.S. anti-money laundering (AML) laws in 2023 after enabling transactions involving terrorist groups, child sexual abusers, fraudsters, scammers, and sanctioned persons in Iran. As part of a $4 billion settlement agreement, the Treasury Department and DOJ imposed separate compliance monitorships, led by a top law firm and a global consulting firm, to improve Binance’s controls to prevent future money laundering on its platform—including the financial crimes alleged in the Wall Street Journal reports.

The Trump Administration’s alleged failure to enforce the terms of the 2023 agreement is predictable, given that Binance and its former CEO have deep financial ties to World Liberty Financial (WLF), a cryptocurrency company that has earned the Trump family an estimated $1.2 billion. For example, Binance helped WLF launch its USD1 stablecoin and negotiated a $2 billion business deal that used USD1 coins, which is projected to generate millions in annual revenue for the Trump family. Last year, in an apparent quid pro quo move, President Trump pardoned Binance’s former CEO.

“From a national security standpoint, the DOJ and Treasury have an obligation to cut through these obvious conflicts of interest, enforce compliance with U.S. AML and sanctions laws, and disrupt proven terrorist financing networks,” the lawmakers continued. “It is also important that both FRA and Sullivan & Cromwell fulfill their commitments to independently assess Binance’s systems and ensure that adequate controls will prevent any future financial crimes.”

In addition to Reps. Casten and Meeks, the letter was signed by Reps. Jared Huffman, Bill Foster, Dan Goldman, Brittany Pettersen, Sylvia Garcia, Joyce Beatty, Lloyd Doggett, and Gabe Amo.

Text of the letter can be found below. A copy of the letter can be found here.

Dear Acting Attorney General Blanche, Secretary Bessent, Ms. McLeod, and Ms. Levin:

We are alarmed by public reporting that Binance permitted more than $1 billion in cryptocurrency transactions to flow to Iran-backed and U.S.-designated terrorist groups through its platform. We write to request updates on the two compliance monitorships imposed by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Treasury Department (Treasury), which are overseen by consulting firm Forensic Risk Alliance (FRA) and law firm Sullivan & Cromwell, respectively. These monitorships are intended to prevent these crimes after Binance admitted to providing financing for terrorists, money launderers, and sanctions evaders in Iran.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the DOJ is investigating Iran’s use of Binance’s platform to evade U.S. sanctions. However, it remains unclear whether the DOJ is appropriately focused on Binance’s alleged failures or solely on the activity that capitalized on Binance’s weak controls to funnel money to Iran-backed terrorist groups.

In 2023, Binance, as a corporation, and its founder, Changpeng Zhao (CZ), admitted to willful violations of the Bank Secrecy Act and criminal anti-money laundering (AML) and sanctions laws, and agreed to a $4.3 billion settlement, including commitments to overhaul the company’s AML and sanctions compliance program and to restrict access to U.S. customers. For years, Binance had knowingly served U.S. customers on its foreign, unlicensed platform and facilitated transactions on its platform with designated terrorist organizations, such as Hamas’ Al-Qassam Brigades, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), Al Qaeda, and the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), as well as persons in sanctioned jurisdictions such as Iran, North Korea, and Syria.

As a part of a 2023 settlement agreement, Treasury selected Sullivan & Cromwell to manage a five-year monitorship that would oversee remedial undertakings necessary to address the clear violations of AML and sanctions laws, enable access to Binance’s books and records, and provide periodic reports to U.S. regulators. Treasury stated that Binance could face an additional $150 million suspended fine if the company fails to comply with the terms of the monitorship. Separately, the DOJ selected FRA to handle a three-year monitorship to remediate and enhance Binance’s AML and sanctions compliance programs.

However, while still under these monitorships, Binance reportedly processed $1.7 billion in cryptocurrency transactions from accounts tied to Chinese clients to wallets linked to Iran-backed terrorist groups, such as the Houthis. The investigators who flagged these illicit flows for Binance’s leadership were later suspended or fired, according to the reports. In addition, investigators identified 2,000 Binance accounts based in Iran, even though Iran is under heavy U.S. sanctions and severely restricted from accessing the global financial system. Binance’s CEO reportedly declined to take any action on these accounts.

These apparent failures to enforce the terms of the 2023 agreement are par for the course, given Binance’s extensive financial ties to a cryptocurrency company backed by President Trump and his family. A Bloomberg investigation found that Binance wrote the code for, helped create, and promoted World Liberty Financial’s (WLF) USD1 stablecoin, a financial product that has reportedly helped the Trump family earn more than $800 million from the sale of cryptocurrency assets, including WLF, in the first half of 2025. According to more recent estimates, Binance holds $4.7 billion in the USD1 stablecoin or 87% of all coins in circulation. Furthermore, in May 2025, Binance negotiated a $2 billion investment deal with a state-backed Abu Dhabi investment fund, which was settled via the USD1 stablecoin. This effectively gave WLF $2 billion in deposits to invest, which will likely generate millions in annual revenue for the Trump family. In October 2025, President Trump pardoned Binance’s founder, CZ. And in February 2026, CZ attended a WLF conference at Mar-a-Lago alongside President Trump’s sons and senior Administration officials.

From a national security standpoint, the DOJ and Treasury have an obligation to cut through these obvious conflicts of interest, enforce compliance with U.S. AML and sanctions laws, and disrupt proven terrorist financing networks. It is also important that both FRA and Sullivan & Cromwell fulfill their commitments to independently assess Binance’s systems and ensure that adequate controls will prevent any future financial crimes.

We request answers to the following questions, where applicable, by no later than May 29, 2026:

Has the DOJ opened a formal investigation into Iran’s use of Binance’s platform to evade U.S. sanctions as described in recent public reports? Please confirm if Binance’s alleged misconduct is the target or focus of such investigation.

Have Treasury, FinCEN, OFAC, or the CFTC initiated any review or investigation into the Iran-linked activity described in recent public reports?

Under the terms of the monitorship, Sullivan & Cromwell has reportedly requested that Binance provide information about the Iran-linked transactions. This reportedly includes information about the account owned by Hong Kong-based payments company Blessed Trust, which allegedly moved $1.7 billion to Iran-linked terrorist groups via Binance’s platform.

When did Sullivan & Cromwell first become aware of the Iran-linked transaction flows?

Please detail the specific information Sullivan & Cromwell has requested related to Blessed Trust’s Binance account.

Reports indicate that Binance blocked many of Sullivan & Cromwell’s earlier requests. Has Binance complied with the request and provided the necessary information? Has Sullivan & Cromwell experienced any challenges in accessing this information?

If violations of the 2023 settlement agreements are substantiated, what enforcement mechanisms are available, including the potential imposition of any suspended penalties?

What is the current status of Binance’s exit from the United States? Have all U.S. users of Binance.com been confirmed as offboarded?

Binance has reportedly urged the Administration to remove the monitorships or reduce their duration and scope.

Please describe the current status of the monitorships, the level of access that you have to Binance’s systems, books, and records, and your ability to interview its employees.

Regarding the monitors, a spokesperson told reporters that Binance is “in the process of fine-tuning the rules, but there is no loosening of controls.”

Can you commit to ensuring the monitorships continue to require Binance to implement and maintain strong AML and sanctions compliance controls?

Binance has reportedly “staffed a dedicated monitor liaison office to ensure seamless and efficient operations.”

Please list the dates of any communications with this office, identify the individuals involved, and summarize the content of such communications.

What reporting obligations does Binance currently have to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) under the monitorships?

Please provide us with a copy of the latest report provided to FinCEN, OFAC, DOJ, and the CFTC as required by the Treasury-imposed monitorship.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

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Reps. Castro, Yakym Launch Bipartisan U.S.-Mexico Caucus

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro, (D-TX-20), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere and Congressman Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02) launched the bipartisan U.S.-Mexico Caucus. They will lead as co-chairs of the Caucus in the U.S. House of Representatives, which will focus on strengthening the relationship between the U.S. and Mexico and facilitating a dialogue on trade, security and culture.

(Left to right: Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Castro (TX-20), Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Yakym (IN-02), and Members of Congress and leaders from the American Mexican Leadership Council.)

“I am thrilled to announce the official launch of the U.S.-Mexico Caucus to strengthen the relationship between the United States and Mexico. Our shared border, history and interests—particularly in trade, migration, and security—make the creation of this caucus relevant now more than ever. I am looking forward to working with Congressman Yakym and my colleagues to continue building a bipartisan and collaborative U.S.-Mexico relationship and strengthening our bilateral policy approach,” said Rep. Castro.

"I'm proud to co-chair the U.S.-Mexico Congressional Caucus and help foster strong relations between our two countries. The U.S.-Mexico relationship is important for our shared economic security and national security. Hoosier manufacturers and farmers rely on Mexico for inputs and exports, while our communities count on a strong security relationship to keep fentanyl and other deadly drugs off the streets. I look forward to this caucus serving as a forum to deepen that relationship.” Rep. Yakym said.

“America’s security and economic future are deeply connected to our relationship with Mexico,” said Rep. Salazar, Chairwoman, House Foreign Affairs Western Hemisphere Subcommittee. “From immigration to trade to energy security and the fight against the cartels, these challenges demand serious cooperation and strong leadership. I’m proud to join the bipartisan US-Mexico Caucus to deepen this alliance, strengthen America’s position in the region, and help build a safer, stronger, and more prosperous hemisphere.”

"This is a critical moment in U.S.-Mexico relations. Our two nations have so much to gain by drawing closer together — especially with the USMCA review on the horizon. I look forward to working with my colleagues in this caucus to strengthen our partnership with our Mexican counterparts on trade, security, and the deep people-to-people ties that bind our communities together," said Rep. Stanton.

“Mexico and the United States are connected not only by our southern border, but also by mutual security challenges and shared economic interests. As the chair of the U.S.-Mexico Interparliamentary Group who recently led a delegation to Mexico, I’m very proud to join this caucus to ensure Congress continues to prioritize our bilateral relationship. Strengthening areas of collaboration — from agriculture to immigration to counter-narcotic efforts — will no doubt benefit both our nations and the broader region,” said Rep. McCaul.

“As Co-Chair of the U.S.-Mexico Interparliamentary Group, I know how important the U.S.-Mexico relationship remains for Laredo and communities across South Texas. Our economy, trade corridors, and daily way of life depend on strong coordination between both countries. Both nations need to continue working together to address security challenges, water issues, and strengthen military coordination along the border. This caucus will help bring leaders to the table, improve communication, and support the businesses, workers, and families who rely on a strong U.S.-Mexico partnership every day. I would like to thank Co-Chairs Congressman Castro and Congressman Yakym for leading this initiative,” said Rep. Cuellar.

“This is about creating opportunity, prosperity and economic security for communities across the United States. So many of the sectors that drive our economy, from agriculture to finance, innovation and trade depend on a successful relationship with Mexico. America’s strength and competitiveness in the world are deeply connected to the success of this partnership,” said Sergio Gonzales, Founding President & CEO of the AMLC.

“The launch of this bipartisan caucus sends a strong message: the U.S.-Mexico relationship transcends politics. It is about maintaining economic strength, striving towards shared security, and the millions of people whose lives are shaped by this partnership,” said Ambassador Nathalie Rayes, founder and co-chair of the American Mexican Leadership Council.

Inaugural members of the U.S.-Mexico Caucus include:

Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20)

Rep. Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02)

Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-CA-33)

Rep. María Salazar (R-FL-27)

Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-NY-13)

Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-06)

Rep. Greg Stanton (D-AZ-04)

Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX-10)

Rep. Veronica Escobar (D-TX-16)

Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE-02)

Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28)


Castro Push to Add Texas and Latino Artists to National Recording Registry Lands 3 Additions

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Vice Chair of Diversity and Inclusion for the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and longtime advocate for Latino representation in the media, celebrates this morning’s announcement that the Library of Congress has selected three of his nominations for the prestigious National Recording Registry.

This year, the Library of Congress inducted “Mambo No. 5” by Pérez Prado (1950), “Texas Flood” by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble (1983) (Album), and “Feliz Navidad” by José Feliciano (1970) from Congressman Castro’s nominations to the growing small percentage of Latino and Texas musicians currently represented in the registry.

“This year, with the help of hundreds of people who submitted suggestions, my office nominated 29 Latino and 25 Texas songs and albums for inclusion into the National Recording Registry. Today’s announcement is a powerful reminder of the lasting influence of music giants like Pérez Prado, José Feliciano, and Texan Stevie Ray Vaughn. Pérez Prado’s Afro-Cuban beats, José Feliciano’s soulful tenor, and Stevie Ray’s Vaughn’s emotive style on the guitar are embedded in the hearts of many. I am proud to have nominated these talented artists and will continue to push for Latino and Texas talent to be celebrated and to grow their rightful place in the registry,” said Congressman Castro.

Background:

This year, the office of Congressman Joaquin Castro received over 400 suggestions from the community. Congressman Castro personally curated a list of 29 songs and albums by Latino artists and a list 25 songs and albums by Texas artists.

Since it was established by Congress in 2000, the National Recording Registry has worked to preserve recordings with cultural, historic, or aesthetic significance to life in the United States. For the last nineteen years, the Library of Congress has selected 25 recordings for inclusion each year, with works by Latino and Texas musicians vastly underrepresented.

Over the last four years, as part of his long-running efforts to improve the recognition of Latino contributions to American history and culture, Congressman Castro has solicited public suggestions for congressional nominations to the National Recording Registry.

With this year’s addition, Congressman Castro has successfully nominated 10 musical titles to the National Recording Registry at the Library of Congress—Juan Gabriel’s “Amor Eterno” (1990), Héctor Lavoe’s “El Cantante” (1978), Irene Cara’s “Flashdance…What A Feeling” (1983), Daddy Yankee’s “Gasolina” (2004), Vicente Fernandez’s “El Rey” (1973), Freddy Fender’s “Before the Next Teardrop Falls” (1974), Lin Manuel Miranda’s album “Hamilton” (2015), “Mambo No. 5” by Pérez Prado (1950), “Texas Flood” by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble (1983) (Album), and “Feliz Navidad” by José Feliciano (1970).

Later this year, Congressman Castro will launch a new call for suggestions to shape his nominations for additions to the National Recording Registry that are expected in 2027.


Opening statement of Co-Chairman Smith at CECC hearingA Market Built on Victims: Stopping Illegal Organ Trafficking in China and Beyond

Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Co-Chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), delivers his opening statement as his May 14th hearing, "A Market Built on Victims: Stopping Illegal Organ Trafficking in China and Beyond."

The following are excerpts of Co-Chairman Chris Smith’s (R-NJ) opening statement at the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC)’s May 14th hearing, entitled “A Market Built on Victims: Stopping Illegal Organ Trafficking in China and Beyond”:

Last September, the world heard something chilling. As Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un walked together in Beijing, a hot mic picked up an unguarded conversation about organ transplants and the possibility of living to 150 years old.

That was not macabre small talk among aging dictators. It was a glimpse behind the curtain—a glimpse into a world where human beings can be treated as interchangeable parts to prolong the lives of autocrats.

But forced organ harvesting is not healing. It is murder masquerading as medicine.

Today, this Commission examines one of the most barbaric human rights atrocities of our time: the forced harvesting of organs from prisoners of conscience, death row inmates, and other vulnerable people—especially in Communist China.

Let me be clear: ethical organ transplantation is noble and lifesaving. But what we are examining today is the opposite. It is the conversion of the imprisoned and persecuted into inventory. Hearts. Livers. Kidneys. Lungs. Corneas. Taken from the living. Sold to the desperate. Hidden behind hospital walls. Protected by secrecy, corruption, fear, and state power.

I chaired my first of several hearings on forced organ harvesting thirty years ago, on June 18, 1996. Since then, the evidence has become more disturbing, more detailed, and more compelling.

The most persistent allegations in China centered first on Falun Gong practitioners—peaceful men and women targeted by the Chinese Communist Party for eradication. Later came mounting evidence concerning Uyghurs, already victims of genocide in the Uyghur Region; Tibetans; Christians; death row inmates; and others treated as property of the state.

Experts, like Ethan Gutmann, have documented how this atrocity expanded from death row prisoners to prisoners of conscience and religious detainees. The China Tribunal concluded that forced organ harvesting has been committed in China for years, on a significant scale. Witnesses at previous hearings have warned us about military hospitals, impossibly short wait times, organs available on demand, and a transplant system that cannot withstand scrutiny.

And yet, Beijing now asks the world to believe the problem has been solved. It says its transplant system now meets international standards. And once again, the disappointing and corrupt WHO takes Beijing’s claims at face value—just as it did in the early days of COVID.

But today, this Commission has received rare and extraordinary eyewitness accounts from inside the Chinese gulag itself: Ali Motevalian’s written submission details his incarceration in a PLA-linked prison hospital near Shanghai, and Kalbinur Sidik’s testimony from the detention camps of the Uyghur Region. Together, their accounts shatter Beijing’s fiction that its transplant system is voluntary, transparent, and compliant with international standards.

Ali Motevalian spent years inside China’s prison system. His submission describes coerced thumbprints on so-called consent forms, bondage, tranquilizers, “last rooms of terminal patients,” prisoners taken to surgery and not returned, mobile freezer carts, and bodies moved toward incineration. His account strikes at the heart of Beijing’s favorite defense. The Chinese Communist Party told the world it had ended the use of executed prisoners’ organs. Ali says otherwise.

Inside the prison hospital system, in 2020 and 2021—years after Beijing told the world it had stopped taking organs from prisoners—Ali says he saw unconscious, shackled men, known as “sleepers,” brought by armed personnel directly into surgery rooms. They never returned. What a nightmare. That is not voluntary donation. That is execution by organ extraction.

Kalbinur Sidik brings us inside another part of the Chinese gulag: the camps of the Uyghur Region. I will not summarize her testimony in detail, because in just a few minutes she will speak for herself. But her account shows a system where human beings are reduced to commodities, where the state controls the body as well as the mind, and where coercion and fear are used to destroy dignity.

The prison hospitals and gulag described in these testimonies are not places of care, rehabilitation, or education. They are crime scenes—part of a system of coercion, medical abuse, and genocide China. Organ crimes are not just a China problem. It is global one that flourishes wherever coercion, poverty, corruption, secrecy, and demand intersect. That is why Congress must act.

The House has twice passed my legislation with overwhelming bipartisan support. H.R. 1503, the Stop Forced Organ Harvesting Act of 2025, passed the House 406 to 1. It would criminalize forced organ trafficking, impose serious sanctions, require reporting, deny visas, and create penalties of up to 20 years in prison and up to a $1 million fine for knowing complicity. This bill is not a press release. It is enforceable policy.

It says to brokers, traffickers, corrupt officials, complicit doctors, hospitals, researchers, insurers, and middlemen: if you profit from coerced transplants, directly or indirectly, you should risk your money, your visa, your access to the United States, and your freedom.

The Senate has not acted on the bill, but they must. Delay is denial. Every day without consequences is another day perpetrators operate in the shadows, witnesses are intimidated, evidence disappears, and families never learn what happened to their loved ones.

Forced organ harvesting is barbaric. It is systematic. It is state-enabled. And it is big business. And, speaking frankly, no one wants Xi Jinping or Vladimir Putin to live forever. I suspect on this point there would be broad bipartisan agreement.

But behind that dark irony is a deadly serious point: no dictator, no party boss, no wealthy patient, and no broker should be able to purchase longevity with the organs of the poor and persecuted. That is all the more reason to pass the Stop Forced Organ Harvesting Act and make unmistakably clear that the United States will not stand by in the face of such cruelty.

Not with our expertise. Not with our money. Not with a dollar of American complicity.

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The Epoch Times article on Smith's H.Res.1259'Congress Passes Resolutions Urging Trump to Press Xi on Political Prisoners'

By Joseph Lord

Published May 14, 2026

The U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate on Wednesday passed resolutions urging President Donald Trump to confront Chinese leader Xi Jinping on political prisoners currently held in state custody by China.

The House measure passed in a 414–0 vote.

H.Res. 1259, introduced by Rep. Chris Smith (R-N.J.), cochair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China, names five individuals who he said were “unfairly punished” by Beijing for exercising freedom of speech and religion.

“Shamefully, the People’s Republic of China currently detains thousands of political and religious prisoners, which include American citizens and the family members of U.S. nationals,” Smith previously told The Epoch Times.

The U.S. Capitol building on April 29, 2026. Madalina Kilroy/The Epoch Times

He said the resolution calls out the Chinese regime’s “abysmal record of human rights abuses and arbitrary detentions” and urges Trump to raise these concerns at the upcoming meeting.

The five individuals named in the House resolution include Pastor Jin Mingri; Pastor Gao Quanfu and his wife, Pang Yu; Jimmy Lai; and Dr. Gulshan Abbas.

In May last year, Gao, pastor and founder of a house church called Light of Zion Church, was detained at his home and accused of “using superstitious activities to undermine the implementation of law,” his son Gao Pu told The Epoch Times.

Two months later, his wife, Pang, another church leader, was also detained. The resolution notes that she has since been “denied access to critical prescription medication.”

In October 2025, Jin, founder of another house church known as Zion Church, was detained at his home as part of a broader operation by Chinese authorities that also led to the detention of nearly 30 pastors and church members.

Abbas has been imprisoned for nearly 3,000 days, and her detention is widely believed to be linked to her sister Rushan Abbas’s human rights advocacy activities in the United States.

The Senate also passed a measure calling on Trump to prioritize the release of the five individuals named in the House resolution.

Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) issued a joint statement on the resolution, which they sponsored in the Senate. It passed unanimously.

“The Chinese Communist Party is an authoritarian regime that jails dissidents, silences religious believers, and violates basic freedoms,” Cruz said. “The Senate’s passage of this bipartisan resolution underscores that America will continue fighting to secure the release of those wrongfully detained and hold the CCP accountable for these detentions.”

Durbin echoed the sentiment, saying, “No one should fear for their lives or suffer political imprisonment for standing up for democracy and freedom.


VOA Mandarin Service article on Smith's H.Res.1259'On the Eve of the U.S.-China Summit, Both Houses of Congress Unanimously Pass Resolution Urging China to Release Political Prisoners'

By Li Yihua

Published May 14, 2026 at 7:27

Capitol Hill — On Wednesday (May 13), both the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate successively passed resolutions by unanimous consent, calling upon the U.S. President—in his future engagements with Chinese leaders—to prioritize efforts to secure the release of numerous political prisoners and religious figures, including Jimmy Lai and Pastor Jin Mingri. President Donald Trump arrived in Beijing on the same day and is scheduled to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday.

On Wednesday evening, the House of Representatives passed the resolution by a vote of 414 to 0. The measure urges the President, in his future meetings with President Xi Jinping of the People's Republic of China, to prioritize advocating for the release of individuals currently detained in China, including Pastor Jin Mingri (Senior Pastor of Zion Church), Pastor Gao Quanfu of Zion’s Light Church and his wife Pang Yu, Uyghur physician Gulshan Abbas, and Jimmy Lai, founder of Hong Kong’s Next Digital.

The Senate also passed an identical resolution by unanimous consent later on Wednesday evening.

The U.S. House of Representatives passed Resolution H. Res. 1259, calling upon the President to prioritize advocating for the release of numerous political prisoners and religious figures—including Jimmy Lai and Pastor Jin Mingri—during meetings with Chinese leaders. (May 13, 2026)

The House version of the resolution was introduced by Republican Congressman Chris Smith—a long-time advocate for human rights issues in China—and garnered strong bipartisan support from lawmakers.

"House Resolution 1259 addresses precisely these individuals who are being unjustly detained," Congressman Smith, who represents New Jersey, stated during a floor speech on Wednesday morning.

Smith continued: "I would like to remind my colleagues that I have served in Congress for 46 years, and throughout that time, I have consistently worked to champion the cause of political prisoners around the world—dating back to the Soviet era. We have consistently found that when the United States calls out political prisoners by name, it is an effective strategy. President Reagan frequently did this during his tenure, as did his Secretary of State, George Shultz; by publicly naming specific individuals, they helped ensure that many of those receiving such solidarity were ultimately released. This approach also helps secure access for lawyers, family members, and medical visits—and can even save lives. Moreover, it truly does help bring about their release."

During his floor remarks, Congressman Smith urged President Trump—who is currently visiting Beijing—to raise the issue of political prisoners in China, along with other human rights concerns, during his talks with President Xi Jinping. “This is important. It is important to their families; it is important to every prisoner confined in a cell for daring to pray, publish, speak out, worship, or advocate for fundamental human rights and freedoms,” Smith said. “It is also important to the Chinese Communist Party, because when the President of the United States calls them out by name, autocrats listen.”

“Silence is not an option. Silence tells the jailers that no one is watching. Silence tells the prisoners that the world has moved on and no longer cares. Silence tells Beijing that hostage diplomacy, coercive exit bans, and transnational repression can be normalized. None of this can be normalized. We will not remain silent, and we pray and hope that the President will succeed.”

The resolution states that the House of Representatives believes that, in his future meetings with President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China, the President should prioritize advocating for the release of those detained in China—specifically Pastor Jin Mingri, Senior Pastor of Zion Church; Pastor Gao Quanfu of Zion’s Light Church and his wife, Pang Yu; Uyghur physician Gulshan Abbas; and Jimmy Lai, founder of Hong Kong’s Next Digital.

Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), one of the sponsors of the Senate version of the resolution, stated in a written statement: “The Chinese Communist Party is an authoritarian regime that imprisons dissidents, suppresses religious believers, and violates fundamental freedoms. By passing this bipartisan resolution, the Senate signals that the United States will continue to strive for the release of those unjustly detained and hold the CCP accountable for these detentions.”

Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), the Senate Democratic Whip who co-sponsored the resolution with Senator Cruz, also stated: “No one should have to fear for their safety or face political imprisonment for standing up for democracy and freedom.”

“Now that this resolution has passed the Senate, I urge President Trump to raise these cases with Chinese President Xi Jinping during his visit to China,” said Senator Durbin of Illinois.

On October 10, 2025, Pastor Jin Mingri of Zion Church—along with 17 other pastors and staff members—was detained by Chinese authorities on charges of “illegally using an information network.” If convicted, they face a maximum sentence of three years in prison. In recent years, Chinese authorities have expanded the scope of this charge to encompass unauthorized religious activities. On May 17, 2025, Pastor Gao Quanfu of Xi'an Zion Light Church was detained; he is currently being held on charges of "using superstitious activities to undermine the implementation of the law" and "fraud." His wife was subsequently detained on June 7; despite holding no formal position within the church, she remains in custody to this day.

Gulshan Abbas is a retired physician. On September 11, 2018—shortly after her sister, a U.S. citizen, publicly criticized the People's Republic of China government's treatment of the Uyghur people—she was forcibly disappeared. Dr. Abbas was subsequently sentenced to 20 years in prison following a secret trial.

Jimmy Lai, the founder of Hong Kong's Next Digital and *Apple Daily*, has been imprisoned since late 2020, when he was arrested by Hong Kong police on fraud charges. Subsequently, the Hong Kong government charged Lai with additional offenses under the National Security Law, including "conspiracy to collude with foreign forces." In February 2026, the 78-year-old pro-democracy media tycoon was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

Prior to departing for China, Trump stated that he would raise the cases of imprisoned Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai and Chinese pastor Jin Mingri during his meeting with Xi Jinping in Beijing.

On Tuesday, the Chinese Embassy in the United States posted on its social media platform, X, stating that "four red lines in China-U.S. relations must never be challenged." Accompanying the post was a graphic card identifying the first red line as the Taiwan issue; the second as democracy and human rights; the third as the political system; and the fourth as China's right to development. "When two superpowers meet, no topic should be off the table," Representative Smith said in an interview with Voice of America (VOA) on Wednesday.

"The leader of the free world is Donald Trump; I believe he is an exceptional leader who holds a deep commitment to human rights and a profound concern for the Chinese people—a concern directed not at the unfortunate government that oppresses its people, but at the Chinese people themselves. Therefore, we—and the U.S. Congress—will stand firmly in solidarity with those who suffer for the sake of pursuing freedom and democracy," Smith said.

Representative John Moolenaar, a Republican from Michigan and Chairman of the House Select Committee on China, was a co-sponsor of the resolution. Following its passage, he issued a statement declaring: "No government has the right to imprison an individual simply because of their beliefs, their faith, or their voice. This resolution makes it clear that the United States will not remain silent when the Chinese Communist Party detains courageous individuals for exercising their fundamental freedoms. These individuals are not criminals; they are voices for truth and human dignity. We must continue to press for their release and ensure that their cases remain a top priority whenever the United States engages with Xi Jinping and the CCP."

This article was published on May 14, 2026 and can be found online at: https://www.voachinese.com/a/house-passes-resolution-calling-on-trump-to-prioritize-release-of-political-prisoner-ahead-of-china-trip-20260513/8149665.html


Rep. Smith on the Supreme Court’s ruling in Danco Laboratories v. Louisiana“It’s not over – the fight to protect women and children from baby poison (the abortion pill) will continue”

Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Co-Chair of the Congressional Pro-Life Caucus, issued the below statement following the Supreme Court’s ruling in Danco Laboratories v. Louisiana, which reversed the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision to pause the Biden Administration’s dangerous mail-order abortion drug policy. Both Danco Laboratories and GenBioPro, two manufacturers of mifepristone, submitted the applications for stay:

“The Supreme Court’s ruling today is deeply disheartening. But it’s not over – the fight to protect women and children from baby poison (the abortion pill) will continue.

“The Fifth Circuit Court was right to halt this ill-advised policy while litigation continues in the lower courts, as mifepristone is extremely dangerous to both mother and child. Nearly 11% of women—more than one in ten—who take this dangerous drug experience serious, adverse events within 45 days, including sepsis, hemorrhaging, and/or infection.

“The severe and sustained harms that mifepristone poses to babies and their mothers cannot be ignored. The named and nameless victims of this chemical abortion drug deserve relief and protection.”

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The Epoch Times article on Smith's CECC hearing on forced organ harvesting'"Perverted" Forced Organ Harvesting Gets Spotlight in Congress'

By Eva Fu

Published May 14, 2026

WASHINGTON—As U.S. and China delegations convene in Beijing, a bipartisan panel of lawmakers is casting a spotlight on the regime’s forced organ harvesting, saying it’s past time to put the abuse to an end.

Rep. Chris Smith (R-N.J.), co-chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China, opened a May 14 congressional hearing by recalling a hot mic incident on Tiananmen Square last September.

A conversation was captured between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin as they walked together, musing about living to 150 through continued organ transplants.

“That was not macabre small talk among aging dictators,“ Smith said at the hearing. ”It was a glimpse behind the curtain—a glimpse into a world where human beings can be treated as interchangeable parts to prolong the lives of autocrats.”

(2nd L-R) Congressional-Executive Commission on China chairman Rep. Chris Smith (R-N.J.), co-chair Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Rep. Dale Strong (R-Ala.), listen to testimonies during a hearing titled, “A Market Built on Victims: Stopping Illegal Organ Trafficking in China and Beyond,” on Capitol Hill in Washington on May 14, 2026.

Smith called what the leaders discussed “murder masquerading as medicine.”

Thirty years after Smith’s first hearing on the topic of organ harvesting, the evidence has become “more disturbing, more detailed, and more compelling,” he said, as religious and ethnic groups—including Falun Gong practitioners, Uyghurs, Tibetans, and Christians—face greater risk.

Though Beijing now insists that its transplant system conforms to international standards, he said, “extraordinary” eyewitness accounts reviewed by his commission say otherwise.

‘Enough Is Enough’

One testimony came from Seyed Alireza Motevalian, an Iranian-born refugee and businessman in China. As recently as 2021, he saw unconscious, restrained Chinese prisoners brought in on stretchers and sent to surgery rooms in prison hospitals, never to return—a repeated pattern he linked to organ harvesting.

Kalbinur Sidik, who worked as a Chinese-language teacher in Uyghur detention camps in Xinjiang, testified that she saw blood drawn from detainees every week. The detainees were then given injections of unidentified substances and small white pills that the Chinese nurses described as nutrition supplements, she said. Healthy men disappeared.

Sidik said the special police officer and driver who escorted her said the authorities had converted a local detoxification center into an organ extraction hospital.

Kalbinur Sidik, survivor of China’s genocide and eyewitness to forced labor camps and author of forthcoming book “Heart Full of Light: Love, Loss, and Survival Inside China's Gulags,” testifies online from the Netherlands, before the Congressional-Executive Commission on China on Capitol Hill in Washington on May 14, 2026.

“They said, ‘Right now in our country, the halal organ trade is booming,’” she said via a translator.

“Halal organs” are reportedly taken from Muslim ethnic minorities and marketed to wealthy Muslims.

“These are Nazi-like atrocities that are being committed in 2026—it’s getting worse,” Smith told The Epoch Times. “The American public, we all need to mobilize and say, ‘Enough is enough. This has got to stop.’”

Concerns of forced organ harvesting targeting prisoners of conscience first emerged in 2006. Whistleblowers told The Epoch Times they'd witnessed the killing of Falun Gong practitioners for their organs in underground facilities.

Under international pressure, the Chinese regime announced it would transition to having a voluntary organ donation system. But a 2019 study published in the scientific journal BMC Medical Ethics, having analyzed the country’s organ donation data, found it “too neat to be true.”

“These figures don’t appear to be real data from real donations. They’re numbers generated using an equation,” said study author Matthew Robertson, a doctoral student at the Australian National University.

The researchers also compared the figures with data from 50 other countries in a database managed by the World Health Organization and found that none of the other countries’ datasets fit any formula.

In 2019, the independent China Tribunal in London released findings after a year of investigation into the issue. It concluded that the Chinese regime had forcibly harvested organs from prisoners of conscience “on a significant scale,” and that Falun Gong practitioners were the primary victims.

Ethan Gutmann, investigative journalist and author of the “Xinjiang Procedure,” was one of three hearing witnesses who have written books on the issue.

Ethan Gutmann, a China studies research fellow at the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation and author of “The Xinjiang Procedure,” testifies before the Congressional-Executive Commission on China on Capitol Hill in Washington on May 14, 2026.

He estimated the average age of victims to be 28.

Smith said he finds that difficult to comprehend.

“These are young people with great futures. They’re very healthy,” and the Chinese authorities “kill them to get their organs,” he said in the interview.

His thoughts then returned to the hot mic moment.

If Xi needs a new liver, Smith said, the Chinese leader will “look to the very people he despises, like the Falun Gong or like the Uyghurs.”

“That is perverted,” he said. “It’s wrong, it’s ugly, it’s cruel.”

‘Extractable Body Parts’

Last May, the House passed two bills—the Falun Gong Protection Act and Smith’s Stop Forced Organ Harvesting Act—aiming to impose sanctions on forced organ harvesting perpetrators. Both now await further movement in the Senate.

Rep. James Walkinshaw (D-Va.), coming out of the hearing, said he hopes the Senate will take action.

Beijing is “using forced organ harvesting as a tool of repression in their repression toolbox, and it’s really important for the United States not to let those kinds of human rights issues slip off of the agenda,” he told The Epoch Times.

Rep. James Walkinshaw (D-Va.) speaks during a hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington on May 14, 2026.

The issue should be “near the top” of the U.S. policy agenda on China, he said.

“We have important issues to discuss with China, around trade, around technology, around security, all of those things are important,” he said.

“But if we don’t have a robust global human rights framework that can protect the freedoms, the religious freedoms, the political freedoms of every person on the planet, then all those other conversations aren’t very meaningful, are they?”

Rep. Dale Strong (R-Ala.) similarly said the issue needs to be brought to the forefront.

“Illegal harvesting of body parts shouldn’t be occurring in any country,” he told The Epoch Times. “We’re exposing some things here that need to be exposed—should have been exposed a long time ago.”

Epoch Times senior editor Jan Jekielek, whose book “Killed to Order” recently made the New York Times best-seller list, said the lesson from decades of investigating organ harvesting is that “the regime is capable of anything at others’ expense.”

As the United States, “built on a foundational belief and the God-given right of every individual,” celebrates its 250th anniversary, the Chinese Communist Party rejects this truth at its core, he said at the hearing.

Jan Jekielek, Epoch Times senior editor and author of "Killed to Order" testifies before the Congressional-Executive Commission on China on Capitol Hill in Washington on May 14, 2026.

“It views its own citizens not as people with dignity, but as a collection of extractable body parts,” he said, and it looks at Americans through “exactly the same lens.”

Among the volumes of corroborating information on the subject, one source he cited was a 2022 medical study in the American Journal of Transplantation, which identified dozens of Chinese language papers on organ transplants where doctors appeared to have taken the organs without confirming the persons’ brain death, an indication that the individuals were killed.

“Killed to order is just kind of the norm of how transplantation is done ... they’ve written that into their scientific methods,” Jekielek said in an interview.

If Washington intends to confront the issue, Jekielek has a suggestion.

“President Trump likes to have great relationships with a lot of America’s prime antagonists,” he said in an interview. In that spirit, he said, the U.S. president could approach it by asking his Chinese counterpart whether or not he wants this on his legacy.

“Does he want his legacy as the ruler of China to be forced organ harvesting—this atrocity and evil yet to be seen on this planet?”

‘No More Free Pass’

Hearing witness Sam Brownback, former ambassador-at-large for international religious freedom and author of the just-published “China’s War on Faith,” said the biggest takeaway from the event should be “no more free pass.”

“China doesn’t get a pass anymore,” he told The Epoch Times.

If the regime insists on being a “hardcore authoritarian communist country” and committing atrocities, he said, Washington should take the same confrontational stance that it took with the Soviet Union.

He cited Falun Gong practitioner Cheng Peiming, who went public in 2024 with the story of how part of his lung and liver were removed forcibly in China in 2004, leaving a roughly 14 inch scar around his chest.

Such stories need to get out, Brownback said.

Amb. Sam Brownback, former U.S. Ambassador-at-Large of International Religious Freedom, testifies before the Congressional-Executive Commission on China on Capitol Hill in Washington on May 14, 2026.

“You need somebody to pull a shirt up and show you, ‘here’s the cut,’ so that people can see this has happened,” he said. “You need to go through the numbers.”

Compared with the often years-long wait time for an organ in the United States, Chinese hospitals’ ability to schedule organ transplants within a very short period of time defies understanding, Brownback said.

“The CCP is conducting three religious genocides as we speak—against Tibetan Buddhists, Uyghur Muslims, and Falun Gong practitioners,” he said at the hearing.

Smith noted the massive profit the regime gleans from the illicit organ trade.

“We’ve got to shut it off with a tourniquet, shut it down completely,” he said, urging the Senate to take up on the issue.

“For the victim who tomorrow is going to be slaughtered for their organs, delay is denial,” he added. “I can’t say it strong enough. We don’t have a moment to lose.”

Rep. Chris Smith (R-N.J.), co-chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China, during a hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington on May 14, 2026.

And on one part there would be broad bipartisan agreement, he said at the hearing.


Central Jersey Newswire article on Smith's CECC hearing on forced organ harvesting'Rep. Smith warns Congress: China's organ harvesting operation is "execution by extraction"'

By Central Jersey Newswire

Published May 14, 2026

Washington, D.C - Co-Chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC) Congressman Chris Smith chaired a hearing on Thursday examining allegations of forced organ harvesting and illegal organ trafficking tied to the Chinese Communist Party. The hearing, titled “A Market Built on Victims: Stopping Illegal Organ Trafficking in China and Beyond,” focused on testimony from former detainees, human rights advocates, and experts who described what Smith called “one of the most barbaric human rights atrocities of our time.”

In his opening statement, Smith warned that forced organ harvesting has evolved into a global black market fueled by “coercion, poverty, corruption, secrecy, and demand,” with China at the center of many of the allegations. He described the practice as “murder masquerading as medicine” and argued that political prisoners, religious minorities, and vulnerable detainees have allegedly been turned into “inventory” for organ transplants.

Smith noted that he first chaired a congressional hearing on forced organ harvesting on June 18, 1996, adding that the evidence gathered over the last three decades has become “more disturbing, more detailed, and more compelling.” He cited longstanding allegations involving Falun Gong practitioners, peaceful men and women targeted by the Chinese Communist Party for eradication, as well as Uyghur Muslims, Christians, Tibetans, and death row inmates. He also referenced previous findings from the China Tribunal and testimony describing “military hospitals, impossibly short wait times, organs available on demand, and a transplant system that cannot withstand scrutiny.”

The hearing also featured testimony from witnesses who claimed to have firsthand knowledge of China’s prison and detention systems. Smith referenced accounts involving coerced consent forms, prisoners allegedly taken into surgery and never returning, and unconscious detainees reportedly transported into operating rooms under armed supervision.

“That is not voluntary donation,” Smith said. “That is execution by organ extraction.”

Smith additionally criticized the World Health Organization for accepting Beijing’s claims that its transplant system now complies with international standards, arguing international institutions have failed to adequately investigate the allegations.

A major focus of the hearing was Smith’s Stop Forced Organ Harvesting Act of 2025, legislation that passed the House by a 406-1 vote. The bill would criminalize participation in forced organ trafficking, impose sanctions, deny visas to offenders, and create penalties of up to 20 years in prison and fines reaching $1 million for knowingly facilitating coerced organ transplants. Smith urged the Senate to act on the legislation, warning that “every day without consequences is another day perpetrators operate in the shadows.”

This article was published on May 14, 2026 and can be found online at:


WATCH: 'China Hearings: Rep. Chris Smith | The World Over with Raymond Arroyo'

Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Co-Chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), sat down with host Raymond Arroyo on EWTN's The World Over with Raymond Arroyo to discuss the findings of his recent CECC hearing on forced organ harvesting and trafficking in China; the need to interlink human rights with trade; and his reflections on the Trump-Xi summit in Beijing.

The full interview can be viewed by clicking here.

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CLARKE INTRODUCES INVEST ACT TO DELIVER TAX RELIEF TO EMPLOYERS WHO HIRE VETERANS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

May 14, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT:

e: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov

c: 202.913.0126

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke introduced the Incentives for our Nation’s Veterans in Energy Sustainability Technologies (INVEST) Act, which would expand the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) for employers who hire veterans who have completed the free vocational training program offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs. In 2021, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that there are almost 400 thousand unemployed veterans in the United States. This legislation would simultaneously address the veteran unemployment crisis and advance the United States’ fight against the climate crisis.

“Too often in America, we have seen our most critical priorities cast aside and disregarded in the name of profit, convenience, and carelessness. Perhaps nowhere is that more evident than the institutional neglect that is faced by our veterans and forced upon our climate. Both have suffered from inaction, and that is why we have a moral, patriotic duty to support both. At a time when hundreds of thousands of veterans confront unemployment while scores of green-collar jobs remain unfilled, my INVEST Act is a meaningful opportunity to provide the boost our clean energy economy needs and the action America’s veterans deserve. I am proud to introduce this resourceful solution to ensure those who protected our nation throughout their service can continue to protect it in civilian life,” said Rep. Clarke.

Read the full bill text here HERE.

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Higgins Urges Nation to ‘Stand Back Up in the Glory of God’ in House Floor Speech

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) spoke on the House Floor Tuesday evening, celebrating this year’s National Jubilee of Prayer, Praise, and Thanksgiving alongside Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), Representative Josh Brecheen (R-OK), and other Christian Republicans.

Below is a transcript of Rep. Higgins’ remarks. Watch the full video here.

Mr. Speaker, it’s a humbling moment for us to acknowledge that we are failed and fallen humans in the presence of God in service to our fellow man, standing in the chamber of the People’s House. We’ve been reminded that there are 23 marble busts in relief that surround the walls of this chamber above the gallery, one of which is facing you, Mr. Speaker, and that’s Moses, and many men up there, George Mason, William Blackstone, Thomas Jefferson, Solomon, but only Moses faces you. Only Moses faces the podium of the chamber of the People’s House in the land of the free. Our Founders were men anointed by God, and we’re called upon to acknowledge that spiritual foundation, once again in our country.

This is an acknowledgement that crosses the barriers of politics, Mr. Speaker, and joins us as one people, regardless of where we stand upon the economic strata, regardless of our color or creed or heritage, despite political affiliation or party, we’re bonded as one man unto God, in service to our fellow man. Yet we struggle. We struggle to know what is right. We seek that as children of God as men and women attempting to serve We the People. We struggle to know what is right. Do we not? Mr. Speaker, our Founders struggled as well. America was founded by imperfect men with a perfect vision. The preamble of our Constitution states: We the People, of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union–in order to form a more perfect union. There’s an old saying in the horse business: the way a horse leaves the gate is the way he’s going to run.

Our Founders, the Preamble, is the document that established our laws, stated that they were humble men, imperfect men, acknowledged the fact that we’re human, we’ve failed and fallen since Adam. We seek to understand what Paul meant when he told us in Corinthians to place not your faith in the wisdom of man, but in the spirit and power of God. This is the chamber where we carry the responsibility to merge the wisdom of man within and beneath the spirit and power of God.

We all have a story, do we not, Mr. Speaker, of how our families came to be here. Many years ago, 200 years ago, a young Irishman born into indentured servitude, far away, heard whispers of a nation born where a man could own the land that he worked. This was unheard of for a common Irish lad, so he risked everything, all he had, left the land of his heritage and boarded a boat that was converted from carrying commercial goods to carrying human beings. According to a letter unearthed by my mother and my aunt many, many generations later, his sleeping berth measured 2 by 2 by 5. Literally, by the way, the winds blew, Mr. Speaker, that boat landed in the Port of New Orleans. And that young Irishman was the beginning of my family. He came here seeking freedom. He knew that he would deliver work, ethics, and principles and Christian faith, determination, and courage, but he knew he stood beneath God, and he landed in a nation that was going to give him the opportunity to build something for the next generation. And indeed, he did.

I ask, Mr. Speaker, are we worthy of the things that we’ve described tonight, all of us on both sides of the aisle, the citizenry we serve that sit in the gallery? Are we worthy of what it is to be an American citizen and a child of God? We seek to prove that worth every day, and yet we fall short of the glory of God, and we arise again from bended knee and struggle to be worthy of this service to our fellow Man. Let me close by saying, Mr. Speaker, that we shan’t be judged by how we fall. A man’s character should not be measured by how he falls, but it should be measured by how he stands back up and as a nation, this is where we are. Our children’s children will not measure us by the fact that our nation has stumbled to the extent that it has, but this generation will be measured by how we stand back up. And let me humbly deliver this message to the American people: Stand back up in the glory of God! Remember the words of Paul. Place not your faith in the wisdom of man, but in the spirit and power of God. Let us stand as a nation, as brothers and sisters, as children of God, beneath the glory of the flag that waves above us.


RELEASE: Congressman Cloud Gives Update on Federal Support for Desalination

WASHINGTON, D.C. —Congressman Cloud announced today we are one step closer to desalination for Corpus Christi. Following President Trump’s visit to the Coastal Bend in February, his Administration announced today expanded water infrastructure opportunities that open the door for significant federal funding for desalination in the region.

Until today’s announcement, preexisting caps on desalination funding made substantial federal funding opportunities for desalination projects virtually impossible. Today, the Trump Administration announced the removal of the $30 million cap that previously served as a prohibitive hurdle to large-scale funding of projects, such as proposed desalination in Corpus Christi.

“It is no secret that the Coastal Bend is in need of long-term water solutions, and this is the first step into making things like desalination a reality for the region,” said Rep. Cloud. “It was my privilege to work alongside President Trump and the Bureau of Reclamation in making this a reality through countless conversations, legislative requests, and President Trump’s recent visit to Corpus Christi.”

This cap removal comes alongside the Bureau of Reclamation’s announcement of a new funding opportunity through the WaterSMART program. The WaterSMART program is designed to leverage federal and non-federal funds to work with states and localities in implementing projects to increase water supply and resilience.

The news comes after Rep. Cloud questioned Assistant Secretary for Water and Science in the U.S. Department of Interior, Andrea Travnicek, on the ongoing water crisis in an April budget hearing. Rep. Cloud asked for an update on Corpus Christi’s application for federal funding under this program, and Assistant Secretary Travnicek confirmed that they had been tracking this application very closely and have had multiple conversations to make sure all the necessary pieces had been submitted in preparation for this funding opportunity.

The funding announcement references its advancement of Trump Administration priorities, including unleashing American Energy Dominance, in its project description.


CORREA AGAIN VOTES TO LIMIT MILITARY OPERATIONS IN IRAN

WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Representative Lou Correa (CA-46) released the following statement after voting YES this afternoon on H.Con.Res 75 to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities against Iran:

“After two months of this Administration’s war in Iran, there is still no end in sight. Americans are dearly paying for it, with their taxpayer dollars and every time they fill up at the gas pump, but the highest cost has come in the form of the service men and women we have lost as a result of the military efforts in Iran.

“Current law requires Congress to declare war or authorize force within 60 days of military action, and that deadline has passed. Congress needs to reassert our authority to declare war, with the Administration making its case why U.S. forces should continue. With the high cost of this war, the American people deserve that justification.”

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CORREA INTRODUCES BILL TO PREVENT VETERAN SUICIDE

WASHINGTON — Yesterday, U.S. Representatives Lou Correa (CA-46) and Bill Huizenga (MI-04) introduced the Veterans Suicide Prevention and Care Enhancement Act (H.R. 8793), bipartisan legislation aimed at improving mental health outcomes for veterans and helping reduce veteran suicide rates by expanding access to evidence-based suicide prevention care. The legislation seeks to increase the number of Community Care Network providers who complete evidence-based suicide prevention training administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs while also creating a publicly available preferred provider list to help veterans identify providers who best meet their needs.

“All gave some, and some made the ultimate sacrifice. Our veterans were willing to give their lives to defend American freedom and democracy. It is now our moral duty to provide them with the highest-quality mental health care,” said Rep. Correa. “I joined Representative Bill Huizenga in introducing the Veteran Suicide Prevention and Care Enhancement Act because veterans face a high risk of suicide. Not all wounds are visible, and we need to make sure that medical care is available to meet their needs. It is the least we can do to thank veterans for their sacrifice.”

Under current law, providers in local communities outside the VA healthcare system may participate in the Veterans Health Administration Community Care Network without completing VA-administered suicide prevention training. The Veterans Suicide Prevention and Care Enhancement Act encourages greater participation in that training and improves transparency for veterans seeking care options in their communities. Joining Representatives Correa and Huizenga as original cosponsors are Representatives Tim Walberg (R-MI), Mike Lawler (R-NY), and Chris Smith (R-NJ).

According to the VA’s 2025 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, 6,398 veterans died by suicide in 2023, an average of 17.5 veterans per day. The report also found that 61% of veterans who died by suicide in 2023 had not received VA healthcare services in the year prior to their death.

“When our servicemembers come home at the end of their service, our responsibility to them does not end,” said Rep. Huizenga. “Too many veterans continue to struggle with invisible wounds after returning home, and they deserve access to the highest quality mental health care available, wherever they receive it. This bipartisan legislation will help connect veterans with providers who have completed evidence-based suicide prevention training and improve transparency for veterans and families seeking care.”

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Reps. Crane and Stanton Secure Passage of Amendment to Improve Care for Tribal Veterans

Today, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously adopted an amendment introduced by Rep. Greg Stanton (D-AZ) and co-led by Rep. Eli Crane (R-AZ) to improve access to health care for Tribal veterans. The amendment passed as part of an en bloc package in the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2027.

Native Americans serve in the armed forces at roughly five times the national average and have a storied legacy of helping turn the tide of international conflicts. In Arizona, we are well-versed in their heroic service, notably the Navajo and Hopi Code Talkers who forged an unbreakable code during the dark hours of World War II.

Despite their significant contributions to defending our nation, Tribal veterans often face difficulties accessing the care they have rightfully earned. With most VA health centers located off reservations, distance remains a major barrier to receiving treatment.

In response to these challenges, Reps. Crane and Stanton advocated for passage of Amendment No. 48, which redirects $5 million from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) General Administration account to the VA Office of Rural Health to expand services. This funding would support mobile clinics and targeted clinical staffing to improve access to care for Tribal veterans.


DESJARLAIS ANNOUNCES MCMINNVILLE VA WILL REMAIN OPEN

(WASHINGTON, DC)–Congressman Scott DesJarlais announced today that through coordinated efforts with VA Secretary Doug Collins that the McMinnville VA Clinic will remain open.

In March it was announced that the McMinnville VA Clinic would be closing its doors on May 31st. Through a formal letter and series of phone calls Congressman DesJarlais expressed his concern about the closure. Today, Tennessee’s Fourth Congressional District congressman announced the clinic will remain open.

“After a multitude of meetings with Secretary Collins and the VA, I am excited to announce the McMinnville VA Clinic will be staying open.

I would like to thank my staff who worked tirelessly in coordination with the DC VA and local TVHS team, Warren County Executive Terry Bell for his aid in finding a solution, members of the Tennessee Delegation for joining me in this coordinated effort, and for the patience of the good people of Tennessee’s Fourth Congressional District.

Under Secretary Collins’ leadership the VA has been focused on ensuring our Nation’s heroes get the best care possible that meet their needs and expectations. The McMinnville clinics issues have been a top concern, and we have been working nonstop to ensure the standard of care is raised and will continue to do so moving forward,” said Rep. DesJarlais.

Patients who receive care at the clinic will be notified by the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System (TVHS) staff with new details about remaining open.


Donalds Introduces The Build Nuclear With Local Materials Act

WASHINGTON – Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) has introduced bicameral legislation to cut "red tape" by allowing the use of commercial-grade concrete and steel for non-safety structures while maintaining strict regulatory oversight for all critical safety-related systems.

Introduced as the 24th piece of legislation by Congressman Donalds in the 119th Congress, the bipartisan "Build Nuclear with Local Materials Act" is co-led by Congressman Jake Auchincloss (D-MA). Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) lead the Senate companion to this legislation.

This legislation aims to address burdensome control standards that have historically made the cost to build nuclear a financial burden. Streamlining the construction of nuclear facilities by reducing regulatory hurdles and lowering costs for non-safety-related infrastructure works to cut unnecessary red tape. This targeted approach ensures that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission maintains strict concrete and steel standards for critical safety systems, while allowing standard construction practices to move projects forward with more efficiency.

The "Build Nuclear with Local Materials Act" has received endorsements from the Abundance Institute, the Breakthrough Institute, the Pacific Legal Foundation, C3 Solutions Organization, and Americans for Prosperity.

"Energy security is national and economic security for the United States. As our energy demands continue to grow, it is essential that nuclear energy is a viable source of base load power. We must take a hard look at outdated and burdensome regulations and make practical, common-sense reforms," said Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL). "I am proud to work alongside Congressman Auchincloss, Senator Lummis, and Senator Kelly to introduce the Build Nuclear with Local Materials Act to reduce construction and compliance costs for nuclear reactors, without sacrificing safety."

"As nuclear technology evolves, our regulations should evolve with it," said Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY)."Requiring nuclear-grade materials in parts of a plant that have nothing to do with safety drives up costs and locks out local construction crews who are more than capable of doing the job. This legislation fixes that by requiring the NRC to allow commercial-grade concrete and steel where it's safe to do so. I'm pleased to work with Senator Kelly and Congressman Donalds to get this done. The result is simple: lower costs, more local jobs, and zero compromise on safety."

"Massachusetts should build nuclear power — and build it with local jobs," said Congressman Jake Auchincloss (D-MA). "This bill ensures that more Bay Staters would do the work when Massachusetts moves to build clean, dispatchable, affordable power."

"Representative Donalds' bill is a practical step toward making it easier to build more nuclear power in America. This kind of targeted reform helps create a more build-friendly environment for new nuclear projects and moves the country closer to abundant, reliable American energy. This is exactly the kind of policy Congress should advance if it is serious about energy abundance," said Chris Koopman, CEO of the Abundance Institute.

"The Breakthrough Institute commends Representative Donalds for introducing the Build Nuclear with Local Materials Act. After decades of stagnant electricity demand, growing industries such as AI, advanced manufacturing, and broader electrification will bring large loads to the grid. Advanced nuclear technologies are well-positioned to meet this demand, but high construction costs continue to be a constraint on deployment. Regulatory requirements governing the use of safety-related materials in non-safety-related structures can be a meaningful contributor to this cost. Aligning material standards with safety significance by allowing commercial-grade concrete and steel, where appropriate, can preserve stringent protections for critical systems while reducing unnecessary cost and complexity. This performance-based approach can help shorten construction timelines and improve project economics without compromising public health and safety. We appreciate Representative Donalds’ leadership in advancing pragmatic reforms to strengthen the conditions for new nuclear in the United States," said Dr. Adam Stein, Director of Nuclear Energy Innovation at the Breakthrough Institute.

"For too long, the federal government has stifled nuclear energy with misguided and unnecessary red tape. Pacific Legal Foundation applauds Senator Lummis and Representative Donalds for introducing the Build Nuclear with Local Materials Act, which directs the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to permit the use of commercial-grade steel and concrete at nuclear facilities. Passing this bill is one of many important steps needed to remove key barriers for American nuclear energy to expand, innovate, and power the future," said Josh Smith, Senior Fellow at the Pacific Legal Foundation.

"Nuclear-grade materials carry an enormous cost premium for little to no additional safety benefit. Three-quarters of a nuclear reactor is concrete, and thanks to federal regulations, that concrete costs 50 percent more than what we use to build bridges and skyscrapers, not because it's meaningfully safer, but because the regulations say so. The same story holds for steel. For nuclear energy to succeed in the United States, it needs to be cost-competitive, and reducing government regulations that unnecessarily inflate costs is key to achieving that. The Build Nuclear with Local Materials Act is a long-overdue course correction that will help deploy more clean, dependable power without compromising on safety," said Nick Loris, President of C3 Solutions Action.

"We are proud to support Congressman Byron Donalds' efforts to encourage the further buildout of nuclear energy in the United States by lessening the burdens placed on the construction and manufacture of these facilities via oversight by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The current text in Congressman Donalds' bill requires the agency to finalize a rulemaking to authorize the use of commercial-grade steel and concrete in non-safety-related structures at nuclear facilities. This bill provides a reasonable and responsible manner to address building and construction activities at nuclear facilities. Congressman Donalds has been a stalwart in the energy and natural resources space, and we are thankful for his leadership," said Faith Burns, Energy Policy Fellow at Americans for Prosperity.

BACKGROUND:

With innovations in reactor designs, nuclear-grade cement and steel are not necessary for every component within a reactor facility. They are largely unnecessary for non-safety-related structures, yet their mandated use can impose significant costs and hinder innovation and deployment.

The cost of nuclear-grade concrete is estimated at $527 per cubic meter, compared to $352 for commercial concrete. The estimated cost of nuclear steel is 120% higher than non-nuclear-grade steel. Concrete pours using nuclear-grade cement can also take substantially longer; foundation pours take about twice as long, and superstructure pours take about 50% longer than those using ordinary concrete.

Currently, reactor construction requires specialized crews and the use of nuclear-grade cement and steel throughout the entire facility, regardless of proximity to the reactor core. This bill allows the use of commercial concrete and steel to construct supporting structures that are not directly exposed to radioactive material. Congress should ensure that nuclear construction requirements remain tied to genuine safety needs, rather than imposing unnecessary material and compliance burdens that raise costs and slow deployment.

WHAT THIS BILL DOES:

This bill authorizes the use of commercial-grade steel and concrete in non-safety-related structures at nuclear facilities. Additionally, it allows the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to require nuclear-grade materials if they determine that stricter standards are necessary to address a specific safety risk, or to ensure adequate protection of public health and safety.


TRANSCRIPT: Congresswoman Escobar Speaks on Bipartisan Wins in the FY27 MILCON-VA Legislation

This afternoon, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) spoke on the bipartisan wins included in the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Bill on the House floor ahead of the final vote for the legislation.

The video can be found here and a transcript can be found below:

Congresswoman Escobar: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. As the proud representative of the great military installation of Fort Bliss, Texas, and as a member of the MILCON-VA Subcommittee, I want to thank Chairman Carter and Ranking Member Wasserman Schultz not just for their work on this bill, but for being champions of bipartisan collaboration. So grateful to the both of you for that.

And while this is not a perfect bill, it does make real progress. The bill advances my provisions supporting reforms and innovation to help modernize a military construction process that is far too slow and rigid for today's military. The needs we have for military construction are far greater than the resources available, and I am deeply committed to reforming this process so that we can stretch those dollars even further.

This bill also supports planning for a new headquarters for the 32nd Army Air and Missile Defense Command at Fort Bliss, whose aging facilities no longer match its global mission.

On the VA side, I'm pleased that this bill includes my own legislation to ensure oversight of the activation planning of the VA medical center being built in El Paso, right next to William Beaumont Hospital. I was proud to help secure the $700 million to build this great facility, and I'm committed to ensuring it delivers world class health care for veterans on day one.

While I'm disappointed the bill still contains a partisan provision that weakens gun background check protections for veterans that I do not agree with, the final product is still a thoughtful, bipartisan one, and I support it in its current form, and I urge my colleagues to do the same.

Thank you. I yield back.


Fitzpatrick Drives La Salle-Bucks Partnership to Lower College Costs and Expand Career Pathways

New agreement follows Fitzpatrick-convened discussions to help combat rising tuition costs at Bucks County Community College, saves students nearly $114,000, and builds more pathways to high-demand careers

Bucks County, PA—Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick announced a major new partnership between La Salle University and Bucks County Community College that will dramatically reduce the cost of earning a four-year degree, create a seamless transfer pathway for Bucks students, and expand access to the credentials needed for good-paying careers in high-demand fields.

The agreement follows a November meeting convened by Fitzpatrick with La Salle University President Dan Allen and Bucks County Community College President Patrick Jones, where the three leaders focused on a shared challenge facing families across the region: making college more affordable, more attainable, and more directly connected to the workforce needs of tomorrow. The result is a lower-cost pathway from Bucks to La Salle that helps students save money, continue their education with confidence, and prepare for careers in high-demand fields.

“Rising tuition costs in our community are putting too much pressure on too many families, and that is not acceptable,” said Fitzpatrick. “Higher education should be a ladder up, not a wall that keeps students from reaching their potential. Local families brought this concern to me, and I took it directly to President Allen and President Jones with a clear goal: lower costs, strengthen transfer pathways, and connect more Bucks students to the careers our region needs. This partnership delivers — helping students save money, reduce debt, and continue their education with confidence. It is a major win for our students, our families, our workforce, and the future of PA-1. I am grateful to Dan and Patrick for their outstanding leadership and continued partnership, and I look forward to building on this work together to expand affordable opportunity for even more students and families.”

“La Salle University is proud to strengthen our partnership with Bucks County Community College and create new pathways of opportunity for students. President Jones and the entire BCCC community share a clear commitment to transforming lives through education, and that mission strongly aligns with who we are at La Salle. We are energized by what this partnership will make possible for our students, our institutions, and the communities we proudly serve,” said La Salle University President Dan Allen. “I am grateful for the support of Congressman and proud Explorer alum Brian Fitzpatrick, for his support of an initiative that will expand higher education for generations of students in the region.”

"We are honored to partner with La Salle University and are grateful for their effort to make quality education affordable and provide a pathway for Bucks’ honors students to join the La Salle honors community upon transfer," said Patrick M. Jones, President & CEO of Bucks County Community College. "This is what a true partnership looks like."

At its core, the La Salle–Bucks partnership is about affordable opportunity — making sure students are not priced out of their potential, families are not forced to choose between education and financial security, and local employers have access to the skilled workforce they need to grow.

By helping students start closer to home, save nearly $114,000, and move seamlessly into bachelor’s and graduate pathways tied to high-demand fields, this agreement reflects the kind of results-driven leadership Fitzpatrick has championed since entering Congress: lowering barriers, expanding opportunity, and ensuring PA-1 leads in preparing the next generation for the jobs and industries that will shape America’s future.

Background:

Through the new BCCC x La Salle partnership, students who graduate from BCCC’s Honors@Bucks program will be able to transfer seamlessly into La Salle University’s honors program. Bucks students who earn an associate degree with at least a 3.0 GPA and sign a dual-admission agreement in advance will be eligible to enter select La Salle business or technology bachelor’s degree programs with a guaranteed minimum merit scholarship of $20,000 per year for their junior and senior years.

For students pursuing an eligible combined bachelor’s and master’s degree in business or technology, the savings go even further: they will receive a 20 percent tuition discount toward the master’s portion, and both degrees can be completed at La Salle within three years. Students who complete their associate degree at Bucks before transferring to La Salle under the dual-admission agreement can save nearly $114,000 compared to enrolling directly at a four-year institution.

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Fitzpatrick Statement on Iran War Powers Resolution

When it comes to the conflict in Iran, these two statements of fact remain: 1) The world is a safer place after Iran’s nuclear capabilities have been degraded, and; 2) We are a nation of the rule of law and three independent, co-equal branches of government.

We must keep the world safe, and we must also follow the law. The War Powers Act of 1973 states that any conflict exceeding 60 days must be brought to Congress. Today was the first War Powers Resolution that was brought to the House Floor following the expiration of this 60-day clock. The law, as it is currently written, requires that the matter now be brought to Congress. That is why I voted in favor of today’s resolution. We must follow the law.


House Democrats Press Trump Administration Over Withholding Foreign Assistance Funds and Defying Congressional Intent

Democrats on the House Appropriations Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP), led by Ranking Member Lois Frankel (FL-22), alongside Representatives Grace Meng (NY-06), Norma Torres (CA-35), and Mike Quigley (IL-05), sent a letter to Trump Administration officials expressing deep concern over plans to withhold $19 billion in foreign assistance and the Administration’s refusal to spend taxpayer dollars as directed by Congress.

The letter, addressed to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russell Vought and Deputy Director and Acting USAID Administrator Eric Ueland, follows an April 20, 2026 notification to Congress outlining the Administration’s intent to reserve billions of dollars for the closeout of terminated foreign assistance awards—even though information provided to Congress indicates the actual cost of those closeouts is only a fraction of the amount being withheld.

The lawmakers also warned that $3.2 billion in Fiscal Year 2025 Development Assistance and Global Health Programs funding is being held back instead of supporting congressionally approved programs that combat infectious disease, provide emergency food assistance, strengthen alliances, and promote global stability by reducing conflict and instability.

“We strongly opposed the indiscriminate termination of foreign assistance awards in 2025, which occurred without consultation with—or consent from—Congress,” the lawmakers wrote. “Withholding additional appropriated funds to support these terminations rather than investing in programs that advance both U.S. national interests and global stability is unconscionable and a misuse of taxpayer dollars.”

“The Administration’s stated goal of shuttering USAID cannot be achieved through rushed and wasteful closeouts,” they concluded. “Any such effort requires congressional debate and legislative action to address underlying statutory authorities.”


Frankel, Kim Lead Bipartisan Effort to Support Domestic Violence Survivors in Religious Communities

Today, Representatives Lois Frankel (D-FL-22), Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Emerita, and Young Kim (R-CA-40), Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Working Group to End Domestic Violence, introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen support for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors in religious communities.

The bipartisan Supporting Survivors from Faith-based Communities Act would establish a dedicated National Resource Center through the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) to support survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in faith communities. The Center would provide training, technical assistance, and resources to religious institutions, victim service providers, and community partners to better address domestic violence and support survivors from faith communities.

“Survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault deserve support that meets them where they are, including in their places of worship,” said Rep. Frankel. “For so many, faith is a source of strength and healing. This bipartisan bill would help faith-based organizations better support survivors, expand access to critical support, and ensure that survivors across religious communities can find safety, dignity, and the tools they need to rebuild their lives.”

“Survivors of domestic violence deserve compassionate, culturally attuned care,” said Rep. Kim. “That’s why I am proud to support the Supporting Survivors from Faith-Based Communities Act, which empowers trusted faith-based organizations on the front lines. These groups provide critical safety, counseling, and support to individuals and families in crisis, helping survivors rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.”

“For too long, the unique experiences of survivors in faith communities have been overlooked in federal law,” said Meredith Jacobs, CEO of Jewish Women International. “We and our Interfaith Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence are proud to have worked with Representatives Frankel and Kim to develop the Supporting Survivors from Faith-based Communities Act. We applaud their bipartisan leadership and consistent commitment to standing with women and girls.”

While the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) has established grant programs to support different demographic groups that face unique challenges when addressing domestic violence, there is currently no dedicated program for survivors in communities of faith. Individuals in religious communities often face distinct barriers when seeking help, including navigating religious practices and accessing services that align with their faith. For example, survivors across many faith traditions may require accommodations related to dietary laws, modesty, or access to gender-specific counseling, all of which can affect their ability to seek safe and appropriate support.

Reps. Frankel and Kim were joined by six original cosponsors: Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Emily Randall (D-WA-06), María Elvira Salazar (R-FL-27), Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24).


Franklin Announces 2026 U.S. Service Academy Appointments

Congressman Scott Franklin (FL-18) announced two students from Florida’s 18th Congressional District have received appointments to U.S. Service Academies for the Class of 2030.

Reagan Hohnstreiter of McKeel Academy received an appointment to attend the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, while Carter Young of Geneva Classical Academy received an appointment to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy.

Each year, Members of Congress nominate qualified students from their districts to attend the nation’s service acaemies, which prepare young men and women to serve as officers in the United States Armed Forces.

More than 40 years ago, as a student at Lakeland High School, Congressman Franklin received a nomination to the U.S. Naval Academy from former Congressman Andy Ireland.

“As a Naval Academy graduate and former Naval Aviator, I understand the level of commitment and discipline it takes to pursue this path,” said Congressman Scott Franklin. “Receiving a service academy appointment is a significant achievement that reflects years of hard work, leadership, and a willingness to serve something greater than yourself. Reagan and Carter have already distinguished themselves through their character and dedication, and I’m confident they will represent FL-18 and our nation well as they answer the call to serve.”

Students interested in applying for a future nomination through Congressman Franklin’s office can learn more here.


Gluesenkamp Perez Bill Would Target Scammers That Prey On Truckers

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) and Rep. Dave Taylor (R-OH) introduced legislation that’s intended to help bring an end to scammers who take advantage of truckers by scaring them into paying money for federal services that are actually free.

“There is no end to the rage and confusion that comes with receiving scam letters that falsely purport to be from the federal government,” said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez, “When DOT licenses are the subject of these scams, it torches public goodwill towards federal agencies. This is a critical issue that disproportionately affects small businesses and it’s time to see some action taken.”

“Trucking companies already face enough challenges without being targeted by scammers looking to make a quick buck,” said Rep. Taylor. “With 97% of trucks on the road operated by small businesses, family-owned companies are too often the ones hit hardest by these schemes. I’m proud to join my colleague, Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez, in working to stop trucking scams so the industry can stay focused on what matters most — keeping America’s roads, industries, and supply chains moving forward.”

The issue grew out of concerns raised with the Congresswoman by truckers, who pointed to misleading letters trying to scare them into paying to avoid government hassles. The letters frequently mimic official documents from federal agencies but in reality are often sent by scammers.

These services for simple renewals or registrations end up costing truckers wasted time and money. Gluesenkamp Perez raised the issue recently during a Congressional hearing in the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

The Stop Scamming Truckers Act would:

Require that any company that transmits correspondence about USDOT numbers must include a disclosure that reads:

“This communication is from a private company. We are not the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the Department of Transportation, or any other Federal Government Agency, and we are not affiliated with the United States Government.”

The font must be at least 12-point font in written communication, and the predominant font size used in the body text of the communication for electronic communication.

The disclosure has to appear on the first page (or without the need to scroll if the communication is digital).

The bill also clarifies that a company cannot: Use a name, seal, logo, insignia, or trade dress that would reasonably imply affiliation with the Department of Transportation.

For enforcement, the bill creates a private right of action – any person who receives a communication that violates the act may bring a civil action in a U.S. district court. Damages can include actual damages, statutory damages of at least $500 and up to $5,000.

Trucking advocates support this legislation:

“America’s truckers work closely with USDOT and FMCSA every day to uphold safety and compliance on our nation’s highways,” said American Trucking Associations Senior Vice President for Legislative Affairs Alex Rosen. “Unfortunately, some bad actors exploit that trusted relationship by masquerading as government agencies and tricking motor carriers into purchasing unnecessary services. ATA strongly supports the Stop Scamming Truckers Act, which would help put an end to these deceptive and aggressive tactics. We thank Reps. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and Dave Taylor for their bipartisan leadership to protect our industry from fraud and ensure truckers can stay focused on safely delivering the nation’s freight—without fear of being scammed.”

“We’ve seen too many truck drivers misled into paying fraudsters hundreds of dollars for registration services they can complete themselves. OOIDA supports the Stop Scamming Truckers Act because it will put an end to these despicable schemes,” said Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association President Todd Spencer. “Truckers are the backbone of the American economy, working hard every day to comply with countless federal regulations while operating at the safest levels. They shouldn’t have to waste time and money dodging scammers. Our members expect their representatives in Washington to promote policies that address their needs and support their businesses. Reps. Gluesenkamp Perez and Taylor have demonstrated they are here to do exactly that.”

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Rep. Gomez Votes Again to Stop Trump’s Unauthorized War with Iran

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Jimmy Gomez released the following statement after voting for the third time for a War Powers Resolution to force an end to President Trump’s unauthorized war with Iran.

“I voted once again to end Trump’s reckless war with Iran,” said Congressman Gomez. This was the third time I voted to stop Trump from taking us even further down this disastrous path, and support for these resolutions keeps growing because more Republicans are realizing the American people are paying the price for Trump’s chaos.

“Trump blew past the 60-day deadline under the War Powers Resolution and is pretending this war has somehow magically ‘ended’ while U.S. troops remain deployed and military operations continue. That’s not how the law works.

“Families are already feeling the consequences. Gas prices are rising. Costs are going up. Meanwhile, Trump refuses to take responsibility for the mess he created.

“The closer these votes get, the more obvious it becomes that support for Trump’s war is collapsing. Congress has a constitutional duty to act, and I’ll keep voting to end this war for as long as it takes."

The House vote marked the third congressional vote this year on legislation seeking to limit President Trump’s military actions against Iran without congressional authorization. The latest resolution came after the expiration of the 60-day deadline established under the War Powers Resolution of 1973.