Ranking Members Huffman and Heinrich Lead Call for Investigation into Trump Admin's Plan to Merge Offshore Energy Agencies

Lawmakers warn the proposed Marine Minerals Administration could weaken independent safety oversight established after Deepwater Horizon and leave workers, communities, and taxpayers more vulnerable to another preventable disaster

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee, and U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, sent a letter to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), urging the agency to investigate whether a proposed agency consolidation within the Department of the Interior (DOI) would undermine the independent offshore safety oversight Congress established after Deepwater Horizon and leave workers, communities, and taxpayers at greater risk.

The letter follows an announcement from the Trump administration in April that DOI is consolidating the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (OEM) and the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) to create the new Marine Minerals Administration (MMA), while proposing draconian cuts to the Interior in its Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) budget request.

"The April 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster was one of the worst environmental catastrophes in our nation's history, killing 11 workers and releasing millions of barrels of oil into the Gulf of Mexico... In response, in October 2011, the Department of the Interior dissolved MMS and established the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) and the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) to separate offshore leasing and resource development responsibilities from independent safety and environmental enforcement functions. The reorganization was intended to address the very regulatory failures that contributed to the Deepwater Horizon disaster by ensuring that offshore safety and environmental protection would not be subordinated to industry pressure or revenue generation," the lawmakers began.

"Sixteen years later, offshore oil and gas development has only increased. U.S. oil production remains near record highs, with approximately 95 percent of offshore production now occurring in deepwater environments that present substantially greater technical, operational, and environmental risks... At the same time, the Trump administration and congressional Republicans are aggressively pursuing expanded offshore leasing, opening additional areas to drilling, and reducing royalty rates that shortchange taxpayers while incentivizing further fossil fuel extraction," the lawmakers continued.

"Interior's April 2026 announcement that it intends to reconsolidate BOEM and BSEE into a new Marine Minerals Administration (MMA) raises serious concerns about whether Interior is collapsing the firewall between resource development and independent safety oversight that was established after Deepwater Horizon," the lawmakers noted. "These concerns are compounded by the fact that Interior is pursuing this reorganization amid significant workforce reductions, including staffing losses resulting from the 2025 Deferred Resignation Program and additional proposed cuts in the fiscal year 2027 budget request. The Department is simultaneously expanding the scope of its responsibilities to include offshore critical minerals leasing and other new activities."

The lawmakers concluded the letter by requesting GAO to investigate the creation of the new Marine Minerals Administration, and the steps that the Trump administration is taking to ensure that the agency can properly oversee deep-sea mining efforts to prevent another disaster like Deepwater Horizon.

The letter, led by Huffman in the U.S. House of Representatives and Heinrich in the U.S. Senate, is also signed by U.S. Representative Luz Rivas (D-Calif.) and U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.).

Read the full letter here and below:

Dear Ms. Brown,

The April 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster was one of the worst environmental catastrophes in our nation’s history, killing 11 workers and releasing millions of barrels of oil into the Gulf of Mexico. In the aftermath of the spill, multiple investigations identified regulatory failures and deeply entrenched ethical issues and conflicts of interest within the former Minerals Management Service (MMS), which simultaneously prompted offshore development, collected royalties, and conducted oversight. In response, in October 2011, the Department of the Interior (Interior) dissolved MMS and established the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) and the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) to separate offshore leasing and resource development responsibilities from independent safety and environmental enforcement functions. The reorganization was intended to address the very regulatory failures that contributed to the Deepwater Horizon disaster by ensuring that offshore safety and environmental protection would not be subordinated to industry pressure or revenue generation.

Sixteen years later, offshore oil and gas development has only increased. U.S. oil production remains near record highs, with approximately 95 percent of offshore production now occurring in deepwater environments that present substantially greater technical, operational, and environmental risks. New frontier projects, including the recently approved Kaskida development, are pushing into ultra-deepwater conditions characterized by extreme pressures, temperatures, and operational complexity. At the same time, the Trump administration and congressional Republicans are aggressively pursuing expanded offshore leasing, opening additional areas to drilling, and reducing royalty rates that shortchange taxpayers while incentivizing further fossil fuel extraction. Interior has also expanded its focus on cataloging offshore critical mineral deposits in anticipation of future seabed mining activities that carry poorly understood, but likely significant, environmental risks.

Against this backdrop, Interior’s April 2026 announcement that it intends to reconsolidate BOEM and BSEE into a new Marine Minerals Administration (MMA) raises serious concerns about whether Interior is collapsing the firewall between resource development and independent safety oversight that was established after Deepwater Horizon. Interior has asserted that the reorganization will improve coordination, but the Department has provided little detail explaining how combining these functions would strengthen independent environmental review and safety enforcement, particularly at a time when offshore development activities are becoming increasingly complex and risky.

These concerns are compounded by the fact that Interior is pursuing this reorganization amid significant workforce reductions, including staffing losses resulting from the 2025 Deferred Resignation Program and additional proposed cuts in the fiscal year 2027 budget request. The Department is simultaneously expanding the scope of its responsibilities to include offshore critical minerals leasing and other new activities. Together, these developments raise significant questions about whether the proposed consolidation would undermine the independent oversight and institutional capacity necessary to protect offshore workers, coastal communities, marine ecosystems, and taxpayers from another preventable disaster.

To help Congress better understand the potential implications of establishing MMA, we request that GAO examine the following:

To what extent has Interior defined specific, measurable objectives that support its broader goals for reconsolidating BOEM and BSEE into MMA?

To what extent has Interior engaged in transition planning to ensure that MMA meets its specific objectives while also maintaining the resources needed to maintain the oversight functions currently managed by BOEM and BSEE?

To what extent has the agency taken steps to ensure it will have the needed resources and capacity, including the scientific expertise, for effective oversight of the development of the nation’s offshore energy and marine mineral resources?

To what extent did Interior take steps to ensure that the new agency’s processes and decision-making—including as they pertain to permitting—will be based on sound science that is independent of undue outside influence?

What steps did Interior take to ensure the new agency has developed a framework for consultation and stakeholder engagement, specifically, on the agency’s expanded scope of authorities for offshore minerals leasing? How will MMA’s processes uphold Tribal trust responsibilities and states’ authorities for consistency review under the Coastal Zone Management Act?

Sincerely,

Watch Ranking Member Huffman discuss the report's findings.

“Donald Trump’s hijacking of America's 250th birthday will go down as one of the most corrupt, brazen abuses of public trust in presidential history, even by the dubious standards of this administration. As our country prepared to celebrate a milestone that belongs to every American, Trump and his operatives launched a hostile takeover of the bipartisan commission established by Congress to lead the celebration. When that failed, they sidelined the commission, siphoned its resources, and infiltrated a beloved national charity under cover of a shadow corporation that shielded them from public scrutiny. Then they proceeded to deceive donors, solicit foreign money, sell access to the President, award no-bid contracts to Trump loyalists, harvest Americans’ personal data, and push a white-washed, Christian nationalist version of history,” said Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-Calif).

“But they didn’t account for us. Over the past year, our investigation has pursued the truth about the machinations, schemes and abuses of trust they’ve tried to hide. We’ve uncovered extensive evidence of corruption, self-enrichmentand potential crimes. The Republican majority in Congress, which has far more investigative tools and power than we do, could have joined us in conducting serious oversight and demanding answers. Instead, they’ve used their power to shield the individuals and entities involved.

“The American people deserve to know the truth about how the official national celebration of our country’s 250th anniversary was stolen, along with a large – and so far unaccounted for – sum of their taxpayer dollars. So, today – against the obstruction and resistance of our Republican colleagues – we are dragging this fiasco out of the shadows and shining a bright light on the corruption and fraud surrounding Freedom 250. We can’t stop from tarnishing the country’s July 4th celebration, but we can stop it from ever happening again – we can protect the next government program, the next fund, the next thing that's supposed to work for all of us, from being exploited and misused this way. That’s why we must confront this grift and corruption now. From our earliest days, America has stood for government by the people, not powerful tyrants. We will fight to keep it that way.”

When the nonpartisan, congressionally chartered America250 Commission refused to bend to the President's demands, the White House built a replacement - Freedom 250 LLC – and declared it the central platform for the national celebration. The White House lodged this shadow organization inside the National Park Foundation so it could exploit the credibility and donor relationships of a beloved public charity while operating outside the transparency rules Congress wrote into law for the commission.

Key Findings

The President put himself at the center of the nation's birthday. Trump issued an executive order making himself and the Vice President Chair and Vice Chair of a White House task force, then staged his own birthday as a national event twice: the Army's 250th military parade on June 14, 2025, and a UFC fight on the White House South Lawn on June 14, 2026, run under the Freedom 250 banner.

The White House built Freedom 250 on deceit. Musical performers, among others, were misled about programming and connections to Trump’s political machine. Fundraisers may have misled donors who intended to support America250 and handed them Freedom 250's banking information, routing contributions meant for the nonpartisan foundation to the President's substitute entity instead. The report finds that, if true, this could constitute wire fraud and charitable solicitation fraud under federal and District of Columbia law.

Freedom 250 sold access to the President and courted foreign money in America's name. The organization circulated sponsorship packages starting at $500,000 and climbing above $10 million, backed by a "historic photo opportunity" with President Trump. Its CEO solicited foreign governments, corporations, and individuals at the World Economic Forum in Davos to fund the President’s priorities. If foreign funds reach the President's vanity projects, the report finds the conduct would clearly violate the Constitution's Foreign Emoluments Clause.

Trump and his operatives cashed in. Event Strategies, Inc., the firm that helped plan the January 6th rally, has collected tens of millions in federal contracts connected to the anniversary, including a master contract worth up to $100 million. Trump traded in the stock of companies that donated to Freedom 250 and staged a White House UFC fight that shamelessly promoted his own investments and business ventures. Freedom 250's event registration process was run through Campaign Nucleus, the firm founded by Trump campaign operative Brad Parscale, which uses artificial intelligence to score visitors and target "persuadable" voters. Thousands of unwitting fans handed over their personal information at a free FIFA World Cup Fan Zone on the National Mall. Freedom 250’s official merchandise is sold by the Trump campaign’s official merchandise vendor, Ace Specialties, and agencies have purchased the merchandise and required employees to wear it.

The White House imposed a false, Christian nationalist history. Federally funded "Freedom Trucks" carried revisionism and outright falsehoods to schoolchildren, including an AI rendering of George Washington claiming, "our rights are a gift from God," a statement Washington is not documented to have made. The Interior Department also urged employees to wear Freedom 250 pins and threatened discipline against those who refused the pin, which anonymous employees took to calling their "Vichy pin," a reference to World War II-era lapel pins that served as loyalty and propaganda badges.

Freedom 250 created a blueprint for corruption. The report concludes Freedom 250 is "a blueprint, not a one-time abuse," already test-driven at the Department of Agriculture, where the administration steered companies with business before the government to donate through a conservation charity into a fund the Secretary controls.

The investigation drew on confidential disclosures from sources interviewed by Committee Democrats, internal Freedom 250 documents and talking points obtained by the Committee, sworn testimony from two Committee hearings, and written responses from the National Park Foundation and the National Forest Foundation.

Republicans on the Committee refused to conduct any oversight to hold the administration accountable, even when Democrats repeatedly raised evidence of wrongdoing at Republicans’ own hearing entitled, “All in for America250: Public-Private Partnerships Supporting America’s Semiquincentennial on our Public Lands.” Interior Secretary Doug Burgum testified he was "not aware of the final decisionmaker" behind Freedom 250, and the Department has refused to provide that information since.


Kean Launches Salute to Service Initiative

(July 8, 2026) LEBANON BOROUGH, NJ – This weekend, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) announced the launch of his Salute to Service initiative to recognize exceptional veterans in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District and celebrate their service to our nation.

“Our veterans represent the very best of America,” said Congressman Kean. “They answered the call to serve, defended our freedoms, and sacrificed on behalf of a grateful nation. Through the Salute to Service program, we will honor local veterans in our community and ensure their courage, service, and patriotism receive the recognition they have earned.”

Congressman Kean invited nominations from members of local war veterans service organizations, including Disabled American Veterans, the American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars. Over the next few months, Congressman Kean will be recognizing each nominee in his newsletter to constituents, as well as on his social media platforms.

To kick off the 2026 initiative, Congressman Kean recognized Michael A. DeCicco, a U.S. Army veteran of 22 years. View the social media post HERE.

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Larson, Blumenthal, Murphy, Courtney and DeLauro Statement on White House Helipad Project

Hartford, CT — Today, Reps. John B. Larson (CT-01), Joe Courtney (CT-02), and Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), and Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy, released a statement following reports that Sikorsky is building a new helipad at the White House.

“The men and women of Sikorsky produce the world’s finest helicopters, and their top-notch craftsmanship and innovation deserve to be celebrated. The issue of Marine One engine exhaust burning the White House South Lawn goes back years and must be addressed to bring Sikorsky’s next-generation Marine One helicopters into service. But once again, President Trump is rushing to complete yet another White House project without providing the American people with the transparency they deserve. It’s a slap in the face to workers who’ll have to work overtime and the taxpayers who may end up footing the bill,” the delegation said.


Rep. Lucas Applauds Vance Air Force Base’s Selection as Home for New USAF Training System

Washington, DC – Representative Frank D. Lucas (OK-03) applauded the announcement of Vance Air Force Base (AFB) as the fourth T-7A Main Operating Base. The Air Force will replace T-38C aircraft at Vance AFB with T-7A deliveries.

The Department of the Air Force (DAF) will support all aspects of the T-7A recapitalization, including the construction and upgrades to operations, support, and maintenance facilities to support pilot training and aircraft operation and maintenance. In aircraft alone, this decision represents an investment of up to $2 billion at Vance AFB.

“I’m pleased to see Vance Air Force Base’s selection as home for the new T-7A, which is an investment into the community of Enid,” said Representative Lucas. “With the largest military operating area, cheapest pilot training pipeline cost, and a fourth runway, Vance Air Force Base is a seamless partner for the Air Force to integrate the T-7A. I thank our community that has worked for decades at the local, state, and federal level of government to ensure that Vance Air Force Base is best equipped to best support the next generation of USAF pilots and their loved ones.”

“We very much appreciate being selected as the premier location for the maximum deployment of the new T-7A aircraft,” said Michael Cooper, Chairman of the Vance Development Authority. “Due to our excellent community and base relationship, we continue to be successful in our efforts to enhance the base, bringing support from all levels to assist with increasing mission capabilities. With this decision and new personnel it brings to Vance AFB, Enid will need to continue our efforts to develop more affordable available homes and expand our efforts to create water resiliency and alternative energy options for the base.”

“I was very pleased to learn that Vance AFB will be receiving the T-7A,” said David Mason, Mayor of Enid, OK. “I think this shows the trust and relationship the Air Force has for Enid and the relationship Enid has for Vance and its continued mission to train the best pilots in the Air Force. Our community will continue to diligently work towards providing all the Infrastructure and Quality of life needs for Vance AFB to increase and enhance its mission capabilities. I’m proud to live in Enid, home of Vance AFB.”

Background:

The U.S. Air Force T-7A Recapitalization Program replaces the aging T-38C fleet with a modern advanced trainer designed to better prepare pilots for 4th-, 5th-, and future 6th-generation aircraft. It fields a new training system that integrates the T-7A aircraft with advanced simulators, ground-based training, and updated infrastructure across key pilot training bases. The decision is intended to provide the Air Force with operational flexibility, and inclusion of this alternative in this EIS provides analysis to evaluate future capacity needs.

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Malliotakis, Morano Ask DOJ to Review Streaming Platforms & Diminishing Access for Sports Fans

(NEW YORK, NY) — Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis and New York City Councilman Frank Morano are asking the U.S. Department of Justice to review the growing number of professional sports games being moved from free, over-the-air television to paid streaming platforms, forcing fans to pay more to watch their hometown teams.

The lawmakers raised concerns that fans are increasingly forced to subscribe to multiple streaming services to watch their favorite teams, despite many sports facilities being supported by taxpayer dollars. They noted that New York fans have experienced this firsthand, with Yankees and Mets games periodically placed exclusively on Apple TV+ and some NFL games now requiring subscriptions to services like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and Peacock.

In their letter, Malliotakis and Morano call on the DOJ to examine whether these exclusive streaming arrangements are consistent with the Sports Broadcasting Act, which gives professional sports leagues a limited exemption from federal antitrust laws for certain broadcasting agreements.

“Americans shouldn’t have to spend hundreds every season on streaming subscriptions just to watch their hometown teams,” said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. “Making professional sports accessible again for New Yorkers and all fans is a priority of mine, especially when taxpayers help fund the stadiums where these games are played. More and more games are being moved off regular television and placed behind paid streaming services, forcing fans to sign up for multiple platforms just to follow one team. That’s why Councilman Frank Morano and I are calling on the Department of Justice to review whether sports leagues are using their special antitrust exemption as Congress intended, or if today’s exclusive streaming deals are unfairly limiting access for fans.”

"For a lot of working-class families, following your hometown team used to mean turning on the TV after dinner, not pulling out a credit card for yet another streaming subscription. When taxpayers are helping finance stadiums and sports leagues enjoy special treatment under federal law, it’s fair to ask whether ordinary fans are still getting a fair shake. I’m proud to join Congresswoman Malliotakis in calling for a closer look at whether these broadcast arrangements are serving the public or just squeezing it," said Councilman Frank Morano.


ICYMI: Rep. Díaz-Balart in Fox News: "We are stopping Cuba from trafficking doctors for profit"

Fox News

Op-ed: REP MARIO DIAZ-BALART: We are stopping Cuba from trafficking doctors for profit

July 5, 2026

Read the full op-ed here:

A new law authored by me and passed by Congress in February 2026 punishes countries that are complicit in the human trafficking of Cuban doctors by way of the Castro regime’s medical missions abroad. The same law for the fiscal year 2027 is expected to be voted on in the House soon.

For decades, the Cuban dictatorship has made billions by coercing its medical professionals to work in places no one wants to go, under the worst labor conditions.

But the doctors themselves see very little of that money. The regime on the island earns an estimated $4-8 billion per year from the program, and regime operatives keep 75-95% of what the doctors are paid.

The U.S. State Department says the regime confiscates the doctors’ passports, forces their families to stay in Cuba as leverage, assigns handlers to watch them and punishes families if a doctor defects.

Since 2010, State Department reports have called the program exploitative. Appropriately, State labeled the practice "human trafficking" or "forced labor" run by the Cuban regime in 2020.

A new provision in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026 targets countries that pay the authoritarian dictatorship for these exploited medical workers. The State Department must now list every country or group that pays for these personnel and notify them they’re on the list.

If a country stays on the list for two years in a row, it loses all U.S. foreign aid. Foreign officials involved can be banned from entering the United States, and their finances and property here may also be frozen.

The law is already obtaining results. Guatemala, Jamaica, Guyana, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Paraguay and Honduras are reducing or outright ending their use of Cuban doctors.

Some, like the Bahamas, are changing terms by trying to pay doctors directly instead of paying the regime – something the dictatorship has rejected before. Consequently, the Trump administration has enforced this law by imposing visa restrictions on officials from Brazil, Grenada and some African countries tied to the program.

This legislation ensures accountability, something that past Democratic administrations were willing to overlook. It exposes those who benefit from the program and hits them with real punitive consequences: the loss of U.S. aid, travel bans and financial sanctions. The law also strongly supports the oppressed Cuban people by protecting Cuban doctors from exploitation and abuse, while cutting off a critical financial lifeline to the regime.

Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart serves as vice chair of the House Appropriations Committee and chairs its Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State and Related Programs.

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McBath, Adams Introduce Landmark Legislation to Address Extreme Temperatures in Prisons

Washington, D.C. — This week, Congresswoman Lucy McBath (GA-6) and Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12),introduced the Extreme Temperatures Injustice in Prisons Act, landmark legislation to protect incarcerated people and prison staff from dangerous temperatures in facilities across the country managed by the Bureau of Prisons (BOP).

This bill is a continuation of work that Congresswomen McBath and Adams began last year. In March 2026, they successfully launched a U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) study to further understand how the BOP currently tracks and addresses instances of extreme temperatures in their facilities. They also sent a letter of inquiry to the BOP in August 2025 regarding current conditions in their facilities, which informed this bill. In their response letter, the BOP stated that 18,736 incarcerated individuals reported symptoms of heat-related illness and 42 were diagnosed with heat stroke between January 2022 and September 2025.

Extreme temperatures inside federal prisons can pose life-threatening risks. Incarcerated individuals have limited ability to insulate themselves and staff face occupational hazards that are routinely unregulated. Many BOP facilities lack basic climate control, leaving people in cells where temperatures can reach deadly levels during record heat waves and winter freezes. The Extreme Temperatures Injustice in Prisons Act would establish the first comprehensive, mandatory federal standards to address this crisis.

“Incarcerated persons do not lose their rights to basic standards of living and safety in federal prison,” Congresswoman McBath said. “As states across the country face record breaking temperatures this summer, it is common sense to require standardized installation and maintenance of HVAC systems in all federal prison facilities. This legislation is another important step towards improving our federal prison system.”

“The conditions in our federal prisons are unacceptable,” said Congresswoman Adams. “Across all 122 BOP facilities, there are more than 138,000 incarcerated people and roughly 34,000 BOP employees who live and work in these conditions every day. No one should be forced to endure dangerous, life-threatening temperatures because of aging infrastructure. The federal government has both a moral and constitutional responsibility to maintain safe and humane conditions for those in its custody.”

The Extreme Temperatures Injustice in Prisons Act will:

Authorize funding for climate control system installation and upgrades in all federal prisons within five years, with temperature monitors in every cell and workspace.

Set clear health and safety standards for extreme heat and cold across work, recreational activities, and housing.

Direct the Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) to research how extreme temperatures harm incarcerated individuals and staff and develop extra protections for elderly, pregnant, and immunocompromised individuals.

Provide free cooling and warming supplies — like cold water, fans, warm clothing, and blankets — when temperatures reach dangerous levels.

Implement accountability measures regarding staff training for recognizing and responding to heat and cold emergencies

Require regular public reports on HVAC progress, temperature-related illness and deaths, and annual safety inspections.

“Incarcerated individuals deserve to live in safe and humane conditions that are conducive to rehabilitation,” said Kevin Hagan, Esq., Federal Legislative Affairs Director with FAMM (formerly Families Against Mandatory Minimums). “Unfortunately, too many live in deplorable conditions, facing extreme temperatures that can prove to be life-threatening. FAMM is proud to endorse the Extreme Temperatures Injustice in Prisons Act. This much needed legislation is a step in the right direction towards accountability and reform within America’s prisons.”

“As temperatures across the country rise to deadly levels, people in prisons are left without access to air conditioning and with few heat mitigation options,” said Sarah Staudt, Director of Policy and Advocacy with Prison Policy Initiative. “Even the most vulnerable are routinely forced to survive the sweltering conditions as best they can. Some will not make it.” Staudt adds, “Prison Policy Initiative strongly supports the Extreme Temperatures Injustice in Prisons Act. This urgently needed legislation will ensure that people in prisons have access to air conditioning in the summer and heat in the winter. Among other things, it also compels the Bureau of Prisons to regularly monitor the temperatures incarcerated people are forced to endure, to develop standards around heat and cold stress, and to ensure that people in federal prisons have access to potentially life-saving temperature mitigation options. Ultimately, a heatwave should not be a death sentence.”


Rep. Menefee Joins Family of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, Community Leaders to Demand Full Investigation and Accountability Following Fatal ICE Shooting

HOUSTON, TX — Today, Congressman Christian D. Menefee (TX-18) joined the family of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia, the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), and Houston community leaders to honor Salgado Araujo, who was fatally shot by an ICE officer during an enforcement operation on Tuesday, while calling for a full, transparent investigation into the incident and those responsible to be held accountable.

During the press conference, Congressman Menefee stressed that any use of deadly force by law enforcement must be met with complete transparency, an independent investigation, and full public oversight. He also reaffirmed that Houston is a city built by immigrants, including undocumented immigrants, who are an essential part of the community.

Congressman Menefee further condemned what he described as a pattern of increasingly aggressive and militarized immigration enforcement, arguing that ICE has lost the trust of the communities it is meant to serve. He pledged to continue fighting for answers, justice, and transparency for Salgado Araujo and his family.

Full Transcript:

"I'll be incredibly brief because my colleague, Congresswoman Garcia, said everything that needs to be said.

I want to be clear: somebody being killed by law enforcement is a big deal. No matter the circumstances, no one should take lightly the power to take someone's life in the middle of a street.

Meanwhile, this administration is in court fighting to make sure people like Ronaldo and Lorenzo Jr. (Lorenzo Salgado Araujo sons) can't be citizens in this country.

We need a full and transparent investigation into what happened here, and all of the evidence needs to be released to the public.

There's an old saying that in Houston you can ask a room full of people—doesn't matter if they're blue collar or white collar—to raise their hand if they know an immigrant, and everybody will raise their hand. Ask them to keep their hand up if they know that person beyond a passing conversation, and they'll keep it up. Ask them to keep it up if that person is undocumented, and people will continue to keep their hands up.

We are a city of undocumented immigrants. They are our neighbors. They are our family. They are business owners, and they deserve to be treated with humanity and dignity.

We've seen what happened to Alex Pretti. We've seen what happened to Renee Good. We've seen the habits of ICE. They have lost the trust of the American people.

And as a member of the House Oversight Committee, let me tell you: when Democrats take back the House, ICE, you better buckle up, because we will be investigating you day after day after day until this lawlessness and this militarism stop.

We've seen this across the country, and now we're seeing it in Houston. I want to see all the evidence. But regardless of what the evidence shows, we should not have these folks in our city taking people's lives.

Lorenzo should be here with us today. This is awful. This is an abomination. And we need ICE out of our city."

Click HERE or the below to see the Congressman’s full remarks


CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE MARKS DEPARTURE OF RMSC’S HILLARY OLSON FROM HOUSE FLOOR

(Rochester, N.Y.)—Today, Congressman Joe Morelle announced he delivered remarks on the floor of the House of Representatives in honor of outgoing Rochester Museum and Science Center (RMSC) President and CEO, Hillary Olson.

Congressman Morelle’s remarks, available below, will also appear in the Congressional Record. Video footage is available and can be viewed here.

“I rise today to recognize an extraordinary leader, a cherished friend, and someone whose impact on Rochester will be felt for generations to come: Hillary Olson.

“Since arriving at the Rochester Museum & Science Center in 2018, Hillary has helped strengthen one of the cornerstones of our community. Through enormous challenges, including the pandemic, she guided the RMSC with vision, determination, and grace, helping ensure it emerged stronger than ever.

“Hillary cares deeply about this community, about its history, about its future, and the people who call it home.

“She brings warmth, curiosity, and an unwavering belief that institutions like the [Rochester] Museum and Science Center can inspire young people, connect communities, and open minds.

“Because of her leadership, countless families, students, and visitors have experienced the wonder of science, culture, and discovery.

“While we are sad to see her leave Rochester, we are proud to see her take on this next chapter, knowing she will bring with it that same remarkable leadership wherever she goes.

“I wish her nothing but success, happiness, and continued impact in the new role and the years ahead.”

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Griffith Announces $432,132 HHS Grant to Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Blacksburg

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine campus in Blacksburg, Virginia, a $432,132 grant. The funding supports research into medicines that enhance brain fluid flow and alleviate neuroinflammation. In response to this grant notice, U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:

“The Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine Blacksburg campus leads an institution in Virginia’s Ninth District to advance research and improve human health.

“This HHS grant for more than $432,000 helps the College develop research for medicines that help patients with neuroinflammation.”

BACKGROUND

As a member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Congressman Griffith serves as the Chairman of the Health Subcommittee.

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U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison Leads Colleagues in Demanding Trump Admin Reinstate Canceled Teen Pregnancy Prevention Grants

WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Representative Kelly Morrison (MN-03) led nearly 80 members of the Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC) and the Democratic Caucus in demanding the immediate reversal of the Trump Administration’s cancellation of 53 active Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program (TPP) grants, totaling $68 million in funding — including one awarded in Hennepin County, Minnesota.

“As an OB-GYN, I’m deeply troubled that the Trump Administration is defunding programs that keep our kids safe,” said Congresswoman Kelly Morrison. “This program funds rigorously studied, evidence-based practices that have been proven to help prevent infections and disease, reduce risky behavior, decrease teen pregnancies, and save lives. Canceling this work is indefensible and dangerous. HHS must reverse these cancellations immediately.”

The Teen Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) Program provides grants to organizations working to prevent teen pregnancy across the country. TPP has reached more than 1.4 million teens across the United States.

Congress has long appropriated funds for this program in a bipartisan manner, recognizing the importance of helping young people make healthy decisions and sustaining a program that leads to reduced sexual risk behavior, decreased sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and fewer unintended teen pregnancies.

In their letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Members explain that TPP is critical to helping young people make health decisions that lead to reduced sexual risk, and highlight the impact this program has had on reducing teen birth rates in the U.S. and helping young people thrive:

“The teen birth rate has fallen 81% since 1991 and 72% since 2007. The outcomes of this program save lives as teenage pregnancies are at high risk for health complications. Specifically, teenagers 16-19 years old face increased risk of preterm birth, and teens 15 years old and younger are even more vulnerable to health complications. Overall, the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program has an established history of investing in community-driven strategies, identifying new curricula that work through rigorous evaluation, and supporting their implementation with fidelity.”

The Members also emphasize the harm of removing and redirecting funds from TPP programs, which will undermine the program's ability to help young people and disrupt critical research:

“Redirecting funding from the TPP program jeopardizes access to the high-quality health education, support, and resources that Congress intended. Abrupt and arbitrary disruptions on grounds unrelated to the core aims of the TPP program undermine the ability of the program to serve its congressionally intended purpose of giving young people the knowledge and tools needed to improve sexual and reproductive health outcomes and promote positive experiences, relationships, and environments that help our nation’s youth thrive.”

In addition to reversing the cancellation of funds, the letter calls on HHS to provide the rationale behind each cancellation, justifications for canceling the grants, and explanations for redirecting the funding to programs not previously authorized by Congress.

Read the full letter HERE and below:

Dear Secretary Kennedy:

We, as members of the Democratic Women’s Caucus and Democratic Caucus, are disturbed by the

cancellation of 53 of the 66 active grants, approximately $68 million dollars of grant funding, in the Teen

Pregnancy Prevention Program administered by the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Population Affairs. We request an immediate reversal of the termination of these funds and responses to the inquiries included below.

The HHS Office of Population Affairs (OPA) Teen Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) Program is a tiered, evidence-based program that provides competitive grants to diverse organizations working to prevent teen pregnancy across the United States and its territories. Millions of young people across the country have positively benefited from the programs funded by TPP funds. The teen birth rate has fallen 81% since 1991 and 72% since 2007. The outcomes of this program save lives as teenage pregnancies are at high risk for health complications. Specifically, teenagers 16-19 years old face increased risk of preterm birth, and teens 15 years old and younger are even more vulnerable to health complications. Overall, the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program has an established history of investing in community-driven strategies, identifying new curricula that work through rigorous evaluation, and supporting their implementation with fidelity.

Congress has long appropriated the funds for this program in a bipartisan manner recognizing the importance of helping young people make healthy decisions and sustaining a program that leads to reduced sexual risk behavior, decreased sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and fewer unintended teen pregnancies. Congress has specifically designated the majority of funds (Tier 1) to be appropriated for “replicating programs that have been proven effective through rigorous evaluation to reduce teenage pregnancy, behavioral risk factors underlying teenage pregnancy, or other associated risk factors.” A smaller percentage of funds (Tier 2) are dedicated to the development and testing of new programs. Together, Tier 1 and Tier 2 grantees have served millions of young people and expanded a growing body of evidence of what works to prevent teen pregnancy. In fact, the contributions of the TPP Program were also acknowledged in a September 2017 unanimously agreed-to report from the Bipartisan Commission on Evidence-Based Policymaking, who highlighted the TPP Program as an example of a federal program developing increasingly rigorous portfolios of evidence. Rigorous evaluation and evidence-based practices are essential to the continued success of teen pregnancy prevention efforts for which millions of dollars have already been invested.

Most recently, Congress passed and the President signed into law H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026, on February 3, 2026, which reauthorized the funds for the TPP program and maintained the program’s focus on replicating programs that have been proven effective through rigorous evaluation, for research and demonstration grants to develop, replicate, refine, and test additional models and innovative strategies for preventing teenage pregnancy, and to carry out evaluations (including longitudinal evaluations) of teenage pregnancy prevention approaches. Redirecting funding from the TPP program jeopardizes access to the high-quality health education, support, and resources that Congress intended. Abrupt and arbitrary disruptions on grounds unrelated to the core aims of the TPP program undermine the ability of the program to serve its congressionally intended purpose of giving young people the knowledge and tools needed to improve sexual and reproductive health outcomes and promote positive experiences, relationships, and environments that help our nation’s youth thrive.

We urge HHS to immediately reverse the grant terminations and request a response to the following inquiries by July 10, 2026.

1. Please explain the rationale for each of the 53 cancellations clarifying how each program "no longer effectuates agency priorities."

2. Please provide justification as to why each of the 53 terminated grants do not align with the direction given under the language appropriating these funds as outlined in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026.

3. Please explain the rationale for issuing two new notices of funding opportunities (NOFOs) with intentions not outlined in the authority granted under law by under Division B, Title II of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026.

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Neal Announces $599,000 Earmark for New Charlemont Fire Truck

Charlemont, MA – Today, Congressman Richard E. Neal joined Charlemont Town Administrator Sarah Reynolds, Interim Fire Chief Dennis Annear, and members of the Select Board to announce $599,000 in federal funding for a new fire truck for the town of Charlemont. This allocation was made possible through community project funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Communities Facilities Program. Congressman Neal included funding for this project in the Fiscal Year 2026 spending bill.

“I am proud to join with Administrator Reynolds and the Charlemont community to announce this important funding for a new pumper fire truck. With this investment, we are enhancing the safety of multiple communities and ensuring the fire department meets modern standards required for effective and strong public service,” said Congressman Richard E. Neal. “Being able to support our rural communities through this kind of investment is exactly the kind of work Congress should be doing to improve the lives of our neighbors and make our communities stronger. I’m proud to have secured this funding for the town of Charlemont and am grateful to those who continue to serve our communities and keep them safe. ”

The town of Charlemont currently has one pumper which was originally purchased in 1996. This vehicle alone services the 1,185 residents of Charlemont, as well as four other communities, totaling 4,320 residents served. Additionally, Charlemont serves as the second alarm for two other communities, servicing an additional 3,552 residents. This funding secured by Congressman Neal will allow for the acquisition of a new truck that meets current National Fire Protection Association standards, will replace the current pumper, and enhance the overall effectiveness of the Fire Department.

“On behalf of the Town of Charlemont, I want to express our sincere gratitude to Congressman Neal for securing this $599,000 federal earmark for our new fire truck. For a small rural community like ours, replacing a critical piece of emergency equipment is simply beyond what our local taxpayers can reasonably afford. This investment ensures that our firefighters have the reliable, modern apparatus they need to protect our residents, visitors, and neighboring communities through mutual aid,” Charlemont Town Administrator Sarah Reynolds said. “This new truck will serve our community for decades to come, improving firefighter safety, emergency response, and regional cooperation. We are deeply appreciative of Congressman Neal’s continued support for rural communities and his recognition of the unique challenges towns like Charlemont face.”

The new vehicle will have features such as an engine equipped with a Compressed Air Foam System (CAFS), a “deck gun” to be in conjunction with the CAFS for exposure protection, a 35-foot extension ladder, and a 16-foot roof ladder. The vehicles’ increased communication capabilities will contribute to a more coordinated and efficient multi-jurisdictional response.

Under guidelines issued by the Senate and House Appropriations Committees, members of Congress requested community project funding for projects in their state for Fiscal Year 2026. Requests were restricted to a limited number of federal funding streams, and only state and local governments, and eligible non-profit entities, were permitted to receive CDS funding. This project is one of fifteen projects submitted by Congressman Neal, investing in a variety of initiatives throughout the First Congressional District of Massachusetts.

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Congressmen Neguse and Obernolte Launch Bipartisan Space Weather Caucus

Washington, D.C. — Colorado Congressman Joe Neguse and Representative Jay Obernolte (R-CA) announced the launch of the Bipartisan Space Weather Caucus, which aims to advance scientific research on space weather, address security risks, and develop strategies to protect critical infrastructure from space weather-related disruptions. As Co-Chairs Neguse and Obernolte will coordinate with members from across the political spectrum on efforts to ensure resilience against disruptions to GPS systems, emergency response networks, electrical grids, and satellites vital for weather forecasting and telecommunications.

The Caucus also recognizes that space weather poses serious risks to astronauts in space. The group will support improvements in space weather forecasting to help usher in a new era of American space exploration, enabling astronauts to safely venture beyond Earth’s magnetic field for the first time in generations.

“Colorado is a hub for aerospace, space weather forecasting and scientific research—with folks across our state making ground-breaking advancements in our understanding of how space weather affects different technologies on Earth, including satellite electronics, radio communications, GPS signals, spacecraft orbits, and even electrical power grids. All systems and infrastructure we rely on daily,” said Congressman Neguse. “As our national security and economy become more dependent on these systems and advanced telecommunication networks, it’s important that we stay ahead of new challenges and enhance our understanding of the constantly changing conditions in the environment in space. And the Bipartisan Space Weather Caucus aims to do exactly that—ensuring our nation is prepared and ready to lead in the 21st century and beyond.”

“Space weather can disrupt the communications, GPS, electric grid, and satellite systems Americans rely on every day,” said Congressman Obernolte. “As our economy and national security become increasingly dependent on space-based technology, Congress has an important role to play in supporting better forecasting, research, and preparedness. I am proud to launch the Bipartisan Space Weather Caucus with Congressman Neguse to help strengthen our resilience and support the future of American space exploration.”

Other members of the Caucus include Representatives George Whitesides (D-CA), Salud Carbajal (D-CA), Nick Begich (R-AK), and Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN).

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Rep. Neguse to Host Longmont Town Hall

Longmont, CO — On Thursday, July 9, Congressman Joe Neguse will host an in-person town hall meeting in Longmont, Colorado. Neguse will give a legislative update and take live questions from audience members.

This will be his 26th public town hall of the 119th Congress—more than all members of Colorado’s House delegation combined.

What: Longmont Town Hall

When: Thursday, July 9 @ 6:00 p.m. MT

Where: To Be Announced

RSVP for this community gathering HERE.

Congressman Neguse has represented Colorado’s 2nd Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2019. Covering more than 12,000 square miles, the district is one of Colorado’s largest and most rural, spanning twelve counties: Boulder, Weld, Clear Creek, Eagle, Gilpin, Grand, Jefferson, Larimer, Summit, Jackson, Routt, and Broomfield.

In 2025 alone, Neguse visited 50 cities and towns across the district.

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Norton Introduces Bill to Preserve D.C. Region Civil War Defenses

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) introduced a bill to recognize and preserve the Civil War Defenses of Washington, located in the District of Columbia, Virginia, and Maryland, by redesignating them as a national historic park.

“This bill would redesignate the 22 Defenses of Washington currently under National Park Service jurisdiction as a national historical park, and allow other sites associated with the Defenses of Washington that are owned by D.C. or a unit of a state government to be affiliated with the national historical park through cooperative agreements,” Norton said. “This bill would also require the Secretary of the Interior to facilitate the history of the Civil War, including the history of the Defenses of Washington and the Shenandoah Valley Campaign of 1864, being assembled, arrayed and conveyed for the benefit of the public for the knowledge, education and inspiration of this and future generations.”

Norton's introductory statement follows.

Statement of Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton on the Introduction of the Civil War Defenses of Washington National Historical Park Act

July 6, 2026

Today, I introduce the Civil War Defenses of Washington National Historical Park Act, which would recognize and preserve the Civil War Defenses of Washington located in the District of Columbia, Virginia and Maryland. The Defenses of Washington, including forts, unarmed batteries and rifle trenches, created a ring of protection for the nation’s capital during the Civil War.

This bill would redesignate the 22 Defenses of Washington currently under National Park Service jurisdiction as a national historical park, and allow other sites associated with the Defenses of Washington that are owned by D.C. or a unit of a state government to be affiliated with the national historical park through cooperative agreements. This bill would also require the Secretary of the Interior to facilitate the history of the Civil War, including the history of the Defenses of Washington and the Shenandoah Valley Campaign of 1864, being assembled, arrayed and conveyed for the benefit of the public for the knowledge, education and inspiration of this and future generations.

The Defenses of Washington were constructed at the beginning of the war as a ring of protection for the nation’s capital and for President Abraham Lincoln. By the end of the war, the Defenses of Washington included 68 forts, 93 unarmed batteries, 807 mounted cannons, 13 miles of rifle trenches and 32 miles of military roads. The major test of the Defenses of Washington was the Shenandoah Valley Campaign of 1864, when Confederate Lieutenant General Jubal Early, directed by Confederate General Robert E. Lee, sought to attack the nation’s capital from the north, causing Union forces threatening to attack Richmond, the capital of the Confederacy, to be withdrawn. General Early was delayed by Union Major General Lew Wallace at the Battle of Monocacy on July 9, 1864, and was stopped at the northern edge of Washington at the Battle of Fort Stevens on July 11-12, 1864. The Shenandoah Valley Campaign ended when Union Lieutenant General Philip Sheridan defeated General Early at the Battle of Cedar Creek, Virginia on October 19, 1864.

Nearly all the individual forts in the Defenses of Washington—on both sides of the Potomac and Anacostia rivers—were involved in stopping General Early’s attack, and the Battle of Fort Stevens was the second and last attempt by the Confederate Army to attack Washington.

Taken together, these battles were pivotal to the outcome of the war and the freedom and democracy that the war represented for this country. It is therefore fitting to recognize the Defenses of Washington by redesignating them as a national historical park.

I urge my colleagues to support this bill.


Nunn Demands WNBA Protect West Des Moines Hometown Hero Caitlin Clark

DES MOINES, IA — Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) is demanding the WNBA better protect West Des Moines native Caitlin Clark, arguing that the league has failed to adequately safeguard one of the biggest stars in professional sports and the face of women’s basketball. In a letter led by Republican Study Committee (RSC) Chairman August Pfluger (TX-11), Nunn and fellow RSC colleagues urged WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert to strengthen player safety and ensure all athletes are protected on and off the court.

“Caitlin Clark is one of West Des Moines’ own, and she’s a hero to millions of young girls — including my daughters,” said Rep. Nunn. “She carried women’s basketball to new heights, and she’s earned the right to compete without being unfairly punched, shoved, and targeted while the league that makes a billion dollars off her name looks the other way. Iowa has your back, keep the faith Caitlin!”

Clark absorbs more physical contact than almost anyone in the league. This season she has drawn an average of 6.7 fouls per game, the fourth-most in the WNBA. Those repeated hits come against the player widely credited with driving unprecedented growth for women’s basketball: a valuation by Indiana University finance professor Ryan Brewer credited Clark with 26.5% of all WNBA economic activity — including merchandise, ticket sales, and television viewership — with an overall economic impact approaching $1 billion.

In the letter, Rep. Nunn and his colleagues highlight multiple incidents this season in which Clark has been hip-checked, poked in the eye, and struck in the throat. They argue the league’s response has been inconsistent and warn that a continued failure to address repeated on-court violence could raise questions under federal workplace safety and civil rights protections.

The lawmakers are requesting answers on the WNBA’s policies for reviewing excessive physical play, disciplining players for dangerous conduct, protecting athletes, like Clark, from repeated targeting, and addressing online harassment and off-court threats. They requested a response from the league by July 24, 2026.

The full letter can be found here.

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Rep. Pfluger Announces 2026 Congressional App Challenge

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) announced his office is accepting submissions for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge. This competition offers middle and high school students the opportunity to further develop their skills in computer science and STEM fields.

Students will have until October 26, 2026, to submit their app. Information about the Congressional App Challenge, including how to apply, can be found on the Congressman's website by clicking here.

"Each year, I am incredibly impressed by the creativity and technical talent displayed by students across Texas-11 in the Congressional App Challenge," said Rep. Pfluger. "This competition not only highlights the next generation of innovators but also showcases the real-world problems our students are passionate about solving through technology. I look forward to seeing what I know will be another year of fantastic submissions and new ideas. Texas-11 remains the best place to live and raise a family, and I am incredibly blessed to represent so many talented students and wonderful families."

PRIZES

· The winning student's app will be displayed on the U.S. House of Representatives website, House.gov, as well as on CongressionalAppChallenge.us

· The app will be unveiled at a Congressional Reception in Washington, D.C., in late December (date TBD).

· Additional prizes may be announced.

RULES

· There are no limits to what students can create. Apps can be coded in any language, for any platform, using any tools.

· The competition is open to students in middle and high school.

· Students may work individually or in teams made up of no more than four.


Congresswoman Pou Supports Patriot Missile Systems to Ukraine

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Nellie Pou (D-NJ-09) today reacted positively to statements by President Donald Trump at the NATO summit that the United States would grant Ukraine a license to manufacture Patriot missiles

“I welcome the President’s statements at NATO. America providing Ukraine with patriot missile technology is long overdue and should have been done some time ago,” said Congresswoman Pou. “Now we must follow through. After nearly five years of horrific war, against all odds, Ukraine is clearly winning. Ukraine’s courage and resilience against Russia’s brutality is incredible. America must give our Ukrainian allies whatever resources they need to finish the job and get the best terms they can obtain to preserve their country. At the same time, Congress should take up and pass our new sanctions packages to put even more pressure on Vladimir Putin to end his war.”

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Raskin, Spartz Introduce Legislation Directing Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to Advance Plans for “Dazzling National Memorial” Honoring American Patriot Thomas Paine

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Representatives Jamie Raskin (MD-08) and Victoria Spartz (IN-05)introduced bipartisan legislation to direct the U.S. Department of the Interior to place the forthcoming memorial honoring the indispensable American political writer and philosopher Thomas Paine in “Area 1” of the National Mall, which is reserved for memorials of the highest national significance.

The Common Sense 250 Actwould require Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to place the memorial in the central section of the National Mall between the U.S. Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial. Raskin previously introduced and secured passage of legislation to create this national memorial to the often unsung patriot and the National Capital Memorial Advisory Commission (NCMAC) recommended that the memorial be placed in “Area 1” in 2024.

“Tom Paine, the extraordinary and indispensable patriot of the American Revolution and spellbinding exponent of democratic freedom, catalyzed our emerging nation to rise up against tyranny, monarchy and taxation without representation to conceive of a new nation based on religious liberty, freedom of thought, and democratic self-governance in service of the common good,”said Rep. Raskin.“On the 250th anniversary of the publication of Common Sense, our legislation finally brings the great Tom Paine from the attics and libraries of history to a place of shining prominence on our National Mall, establishing the dazzling national memorial he deserves.”

“As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, we remember Thomas Paine’s timeless words: ‘These are the times that try men’s souls,’ which helped rally General Washington’s army before the crossing of the Delaware - a pivotal moment that changed the course of the Revolution,”said Rep. Spartz.“Their sacrifices should remind us of the price so many Americans paid to secure our freedom - a precious gift we have a solemn duty to preserve for future generations.”

“Thomas Paine gave the American Revolution its voice,”said Annie Laurie Gaylor, co-president, Freedom From Religion Foundation. “Without 'Common Sense' there is no independence, and without 'The American Crisis' the Continental Army may not have survived Valley Forge. As the nation celebrated its 250th anniversary this Independence Day, we owe a debt to the man whose words helped make that first Fourth of July possible. Every American inherits the world Paine set in motion. A monument to Paine in the heart of the nation's capital is 250 years overdue. This is the right moment to welcome Paine home among the founders.”

“Thomas Paine gave this country its argument for independence and then took up a musket in the Continental Army to help win it,”said Margaret Downey, president, Thomas Paine Memorial Association.“He sold half a million copies of 'Common Sense' when the nation was still an idea, and George Washington had 'The American Crisis' read aloud to the troops before they crossed the Delaware. Paine opposed slavery, called for the education of every child, and imagined a brotherhood of free nations long before the world was ready for it. Paine was a hero to Benjamin Franklin, Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. For 250 years the capital he helped bring into being has had no memorial to him. We intend to correct that, and Area 1 is exactly where he belongs.”

The lawmakers’ legislation requires that the previously approved Paine memorial be placed in “Area 1” of the National Mall. “Area 1” is perhaps the most iconic section of the National Mall, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Tidal Basin and the Washington Monument. “Area 1” also contains monuments and memorials honoring significant American figures and events, like the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial and the World War II Memorial.

Rep. Raskin’s 2023 law authorized the Thomas Paine Memorial Association to establish a memorial to Paine in the District of Columbia. Rep. Spartz cosponsored the 2023 law. In September 2024, NCMAC recommended that the memorial be placed in “Area 1” of the National Mall.

The Paine memorial is fully funded with private contributions from admirers of Paine and his work. The Thomas Paine Memorial Association plans to commission renowned sculptor Zenos Frudakis to build the memorial.

Paine is best known for writing the pamphletCommon Sensein 1776 which galvanized support for the American revolution. His ideals of democratic self-government, guarding human rights and the application of reason and science are still enshrined in society today.

The legislation is endorsed by the Freedom From Religion Foundation, the Thomas Paine Memorial Association and the Richard Dawkins Foundation for Reason & Science/the Center for Inquiry.

Read the full bill texthere.


DIGNITY Act in the News: 250+ Stories Leading the National Conversation on Immigration Reform

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The DIGNITY Act continues to drive the national conversation on immigration reform, generating sustained coverage from national, state, and local media outlets across the country.

Featured in more than 250 news stories and media mentions nationwide, the DIGNITY Act has become a leading voice in the debate over the future of America's immigration system. The growing body of favorable coverage from a wide range of sources reflects increasing recognition that America needs a serious legislative solution to fix its broken immigration system.

As the only viable bipartisan immigration reform proposal before Congress, the DIGNITY Act has brought together faith communities, families, farmers, manufacturers, small businesses, educators, economists, builders, mayors, veterans, think tanks, trade associations, policymakers, community leaders, and patriotic Americans around a common goal: fixing America's broken immigration system in a way that prioritizes the American economy, our national security, and our faith and family

values through lasting legislation. Below is a collection of news coverage highlighting that growing national conversation.

250+ News Stories and Media Mentions

1. Texas Border Business - Bipartisan Push for Immigration Reform Gains Momentum

2. Miami Herald - Miami Republican has ‘simple’ plan to stop mass deportations. Trump should listen

3. American Enterprise Institute - The Surprising New Consensus on Asylum Reform

4. DC Journal - To Save Our Churches, Pass the Dignity Act Instead of Funding Deportations

5. ABIC - American Business Immigration Coalition, National Business Leaders Urge Passage of Dignity Act.

6. Washington Post - Latino GOP lawmakers voice worry about Trump’s mass deportation campaign

7. Forbes - America Is Shrinking Its Workforce At The Worst Possible Time

8. Cato Institute - Immigrants Reduce America’s Deficit. Congress Should Take Notice.

9. Brookings - How immigration reforms could bolster Social Security and Medicare solvency and address direct care workforce issues

10. Manufacturing Dive - Immigration bill picks up steam with manufacturing endorsement

11. National Catholic Reporter - Catholics in Congress form majority behind bipartisan 'Dignity Act' immigration bill

12. NYT - Texas Restaurants Are Forcing a Reckoning Over Immigrant Labor

13. Washington Examiner - The Dignity Act is not amnesty — history proves it

14. Reuters - Trump’s deportation push could cost Republicans in midterm elections, Reuters/Ipsos poll finds

15. Small Business Majority - Immigration Reform

16. The Oklahoman - GOP can keep America First and still be a welcoming party

17. U.S. Chamber of Commerce - U.S. Chamber Statement: DIGNITY Act of 2025

18. Problem Solvers - Problem Solvers Caucus Endorses the Dignity Act

19. National Restaurant Association - National Restaurant Association Supports Passage of the Dignity Act of 2025

20. NAHB - NAHB Endorses Dignity Act to Modernize America’s Immigration System

21. City Journal - Republicans Shouldn’t kill the Dignity Act- They Should Make It Tougher

22. NBC News - Bipartisan duo introduces bill to give some migrant workers protected status amid Trump's crackdown

23. The Way of Improvement Leads Home - Evangelicals Support the Bipartisan Dignity Act

24. Good Morning America - Advocates decry Targeting of Migrants as Thousands of US citizens Spouses, parents caught up in crackdown.

25. Forbes - Immigrants Are Founders Of Most U.S. Billion-Dollar Companies

26. Archbishop Jose Gomez - After Minneapolis, we need a way forward.

27. Slate - The Public is losing Patience With Trump on Immigration. Your Move, Congress.

28. Los Angeles Times - Seeking the elusive path for immigrants to come to U.S. legally: ‘People are dying in line’

29. Fox News - Bipartisan Bill would grant legal status to certain illegal immigrant workers.

30. Fox Business - Rep. Mike Lawler on the 'Dignity Act': This is an earned pathway to legal status

31. Washington Examiner - The case for the Dignity Act: Amnesty or not, it’s a fair compromise.

32. Punchbowl News - HFC member supports bipartisan immigration bill

33. Third Way - Third Way Endorses the Bipartisan Dignity Act to Bring Order and Fairness to America’s Immigration System

34. United States Conference of Catholic Bishops - Bipartisan Collaboration on Immigration Reform is Still Possible, says Bishop Seitz

35. The Texas Tribune - U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar’s bipartisan immigration bill draws GOP support — and backlash

36. Christianity Today - ICE is devastating some Latino Churches

37. Miami Herald - Wife of detained immigrant joins lawmakers in D.C. to push for immigration reform

38. CBS News - Neighbors welcome man home to Downingtown, Pennsylvania, after months in ICE detention

39. Miami Herald - U.S. Citizen has fought seven months to free husband; ICE claims “flight Risk”

40. Religion News Service - The Dignity Act challenges Americans to choose cooperation on immigration

41. The Sacramento Bee - America can have ICE raids or immigration reform. It’s up to Trump and the GOP

42. Congressman Mike Lawler - Reps. Lawler, Salazar, and Escobar Introduce Historic Bipartisan DIGNITY Act to Finally Fix America's Broken Immigration System

43. CBS News - GOP Rep. María Salazar explains her immigration reform bill

44. Business Roundtable - Business Roundtable Applauds Congresswomen Salazar and Escobar

45. The Hill - Sudden GOP infighting explodes over bipartisan immigration reform bill

46. Univision - "Estatus legal para inmigrantes indocumentados, no amnistía": representantes introducirán nueva propuesta de reforma migratoria

47. Telemundo - Dos congresistas latinas presentan proyecto de ley para dar estatus legal temporal a ciertos trabajadores

48. ABIC - Republican and Democratic Lawmakers, Business, and Faith Leaders Unite Behind Dignity Act, Launch National Dignity Tour at DC Press Conference

49. Florida Press - María Elvira Salazar’s DIGNITY Act Secures 35 Bipartisan Cosponsors

50. ABIC - Lawmakers, Business, Veterans, and American Spouses Warn Congress: Inaction on Immigration Is Driving Up Costs, Threatening Workforce, and Tearing Apart Millions of American Families

51. American Senior Housing Association - AHSA Sends Letter to Representatives Salazar and Escobar in Support of the Dignity Act

52. Medical Economics - Immigration reform meets primary care: How the Dignity Act of 2025 could help ease the workforce shortage

53. Texas GOP Vote - Nation’s Top Scientists Endorse the Dignity Act

54. Libero - ¡Nuevo proyecto en EE. UU.! La Ley Dignidad podría traer esperanza a millones de inmigrantes

55. Florida Phoenix - GOP Rep. Maria Salazar introduces legislation that includes protections for certain migrants

56. Miami Herald - Salazar introduces ‘Dignity’ bill in House to grant some migrants legal status

57. El Imparcial - “Ley de Dignidad”: Presentan propuesta en EEUU que daría estatus legal a migrantes indocumentados bajo estos estrictos requisitos

58. National Association of Manufacturers - Manufacturers, Lawmakers Discuss How to Make Immigration Work for America

59. The Floridian - Salazar Introduces Bipartisan “Dignity Act of 2025”

60. CiberCuba - María Elvira Salazar presents her "Dignity Law of 2025" to legalize immigrants with no criminal records

61. Diario Las Américas - Ley DIGNIDAD 2025, con mejoras que tendrían efecto en el Congreso

62. The San Diego Union-Tribune - Presentan en el congreso el proyecto de ley “Dignidad” para legalizar la situación de algunos migrantes

63. MSN - Ley Dignidad 2025 | La reforma migratoria que podría cambiar la vida de millones de personas en Estados Unidos: ¿de qué se trata?

64. Lassen County Times - Small businesses endorse bipartisan immigration bill — Dignity Act offers better path forward on immigration

65. National Association of Evangelicals and World Relief - Joined Together, Torn Apart: How U.S. Immigration Policies are Separating Families

66. Telemundo Washington DC - Proyecto de ley bipartidista ofrecería estatus legal a ciertos inmigrantes indocumentados

67. Heraldo USA - “Dignity Law”: así es el proyecto de ley bipartidista que busca regular el estado migratorio

68. Semana - Proyecto de ley promete una solución para que inmigrantes indocumentados normalicen su estatus en Estados Unidos

69. The Episcopal Church - Support Immigration Reform

70. El Colombiano - “Ley Dignidad”: el proyecto con el que dos congresistas latinas buscan darle estatus legal a migrantes en EE. UU.

71. Telemundo Houston - Proyecto “Ley Dignidad” genera esperanza y preocupación a activistas de Houston

72. Telemundo Miami - La Ley Dignidad es clave para María Elvira Salazar y sus ideas sobre una reforma migratoria

73. La Azuca - María Elvira Salazar presenta “Ley Dignidad de 2025” para legalizar a inmigrantes indocumentados

74. The Kansas City Star - As an evangelical Kansas pastor, I know immigrants deserve this protection

75. El Diario - “Ley Dignidad” bipartidista introducida en el Congreso busca otorgar estatus legal a millones de indocumentados trabajadores

76. AS - Estatus legal por 7 años para inmigrantes indocumentados en EE.UU.: Estas personas serían elegibles bajo la Ley de Dignidad

77. La Patilla - “Ley Dignidad”: ¿De qué trata el proyecto bipartidista que busca otorgar estatus legal a indocumentados?

78. NTN24 - ¿En qué consiste la Ley Dignidad 2025 promovida por las congresistas María Elvira Salazar y Verónica Escobar?

79. Mario Vallejo - Ley de Dignidad: Propuesta que busca protección para inmigrantes indocumentados en EEUU

80. Roofing Contractor - What the Dignity Act of 2025 Could Mean for the Roofing Industry’s Workforce

81. Centro Tampa - La congresista republicana María Elvira Salazar presenta proyecto de ley que incluye protecciones para ciertos migrantes

82. El Tiempo - La nueva ley que le daría estatus legal a miles de migrantes: la hicieron representantes de Florida y Texas

83. Restaurant Business - Why the Texas Restaurant Association Is Leading the Conversation on Immigration Reform

84. Spectrum Noticias Florida - Congresistas presentan propuesta de reforma migratoria

85. Hispano New Jersey - Congresistas presentan proyecto migratorio Dignidad

86. Proceso Digital - “Ley Dignidad”, un salvavidas en medio de tempestad para migrantes hondureños

87. NDTV World - What Is The US Dignity Act Of 2025 And How It Will Help Indians With Visas

88. Texas GOP Vote - Lawmakers, Business, Veterans, and American Spouses Warn Congress: Inaction on Immigration Is Driving Up Costs, Threatening Workforce, and Tearing Apart Millions of American Families

89. El Nuevo Herald - Activistas promueven proyecto de ley que daría residencia a inmigrantes indocumentados

90. The Economic Times - The Dignity Act of 2025: Faster green cards, dual-intent student visas proposed in bipartisan US bill

91. The Times of India - A Turning Point for Student Mobility: How the DIGNITY Act could redefine America's Academic Gateways

92. National Immigration Forum - The Dignity Act of 20205: Bill Summary

93. Money Control - Will paying Rs 17.5 lakh fast-track your US Green Card? Breaking down the Dignity Act of 2025

94. First Post - Will the wait for US green cards reduce with a $20,000 fee?

95. The Orange County Register - Bipartisan immigration reform package? Some California lawmakers back it, but will Congress pass it?

96. Denver 7 - Rep. Gabe Evans introduces bill to provide legal status for some undocumented immigrants

97. Telemundo Colorado - Legisladores bipartidistas presentan nueva versión de la ‘ley dignidad’: propuesta de reforma migratoria

98. Telemundo Kansas City - «Ley Dignidad» agrada a inmigrantes y esperan se haga realidad

99. American Families United - Collateral Damage, How Immigration Policy Harms U.S. Citizens in Mixed-Status Marriages

100. Puente Libre - ¿Qué es la Ley Dignidad? Reforma Migratoria Bi-partidista en EE. UU

101. La Cronista - Ley Dignidad 2025 | La reforma migratoria que podría cambiar la vida de millones de personas en Estados Unidos: ¿de qué se trata?

102. VisaVerge - What Is the Dignity Act 2025 and Its Impact on US Immigration?

103. Shepelsky Law Group - Immigration Dignity Act 2025: Who It Helps & What to Know

104. The Washington Post - Rahm Emanuel would like to talk about immigration

105. The LIBRE Initiative - Meaningful Immigration Reform Requires Us To Lead With Dignity

106. POLITICO - Why MAGA has a problem with Maria

107. VisaServe - Dignity Act of 2025: A New $20,000 Fast Lane to Green Cards for Long-Waiting Immigrants

108. Nation’s Restaurant News - Here’s what the Dignity Act could mean for restaurants

109. CPR News - ‘It gives them a path’: Rep. Gabe Evans says The Dignity Act will bring reform and opportunity to immigration policies

110. NewsNation - Immigration bill gives chance to noncriminal migrants: Florida Rep.

111. El Paso Times - What is Dignity Act 2025? How will it change US immigration system?

112. Denver 7 - Colorado Congressman Gabe Evans picks up support for immigration reform bill

113. Voz - 'It's not amnesty': Gabe Evans defends the Dignity Act

114. Financial Express - 7-year Dignity Program aimed at undocumented immigrants to work legally in America proposed

115. RN Law Group - The Dignity Act of 2025: What Employers and High-Skilled Immigrants Need to Know

116. Marti Noticias - Piden a Trump que apoye ley que protege a inmigrantes sin récord criminal (VIDEO)

117. Chugh - The Dignity Act of 2025

118. Yahoo Español - Ley Dignidad 2025: de qué va proyecto de ley otorgaría estatus legal a algunos migrantes en EU

119. American Immigration Lawyers Association - Policy Brief: The Dignity Act of 2025

120. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar - What They’re Saying

121. Edhat Santa Barbara - Carbajal Co-Leads Bipartisan Immigration Reform Bill

122. El Observador - ¿Hay posibilidades de que se apruebe una reforma migratoria?

123. Santa Barbara Independent - Carbajal Co-Sponsors Bipartisan Immigration Reform Bill in U.S. House of Representatives

124. Times of India - $20,000 to fast-track green card applications: What is the provision of the proposed Dignity Act?

125. Current Affairs - US Green Card: Dignity Act 2025 may Benefit Indian Americans

126. PBS - GOP Rep. Salazar calls for pathway to citizenship for some undocumented immigrants

127. VisaVerge - Dignity Act 2025 Proposal to Increase Green Card Numbers and Caps

128. Enlace Conexión Entre Culturas - Ley Dignidad 2025: Una opción migratoria entre lo posible y lo insuficiente

129. CPR News - As GOP Rep. Gabe Evans seeks reelection, he’ll have to contend with his voters’ complex views on immigration

130. The San Diego Union-Tribune - Michael Smolens: Bipartisan support builds for migrant legal status. Don’t hold your breath.

131. Alvelo Immigration - Qué es la Ley de Dignidad? ¿Qué es la Ley de Dignidad? Una guía completa para inmigrantes

132. La Nación - Qué dice la “Ley de la Dignidad”: el proyecto que busca devolverle un estatus legal a miles de migrantes en EE.UU.

133. EWTN News - Rep. Salazar promotes legislation to update ‘archaic’ immigration laws

134. America’s Voice - America’s Voice Reacts to Bipartisan Introduction of “The Dignity Act of 2025”

135. Miami Herald - Rep. Salazar: I don’t belong in letter claiming inaction on immigration in Miami-Dade

136. Florida Voice - U.S. Rep. Maria Salazar sides with Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, says immigration policy must move to ‘next step’

137. National Law Review - The DIGNIDAD (Dignity) Act of 2025 Seeks to Transform U.S. Immigration

138. State Business Executives - State Business Executives Endorse Bipartisan Dignity Act

139. LeadingAge - Dignity Act: Bipartisan Immigration Reform Bill Introduced

140. Mualem Firm - Understanding the Proposed Dignity Act of 2025: Key Takeaways for Employers

141. Santa Barbara Independent - Santa Barbara City Council Approves $500,000 to Immigrant Support Services

142. Design News - The Dignity Act: A Practical Workforce Fix for Advanced Manufacturing

143. UnitedAg - Immigration Reform and Ag Labor: Mauel Cunha on the Dignity Act

144. The Packer - What Workers Think of the Dignity Act

145. The Business Journal - Industry Leaders Form Alliance to Protect Undocumented workers.

146. AgWeb - America’s Farm Labor Crisis: Can Immigration Reform Save Agriculture?

147. Congressman David Valadao - Valadao, Costa Host Bipartisan Immigration Roundtable

148. NewsWeek - Number of Green Cards To Increase Under New Proposal

149. National Catholic Register - Archbishop Gomez Shows Openness to Immigration Bill to Create Legal Protections

150. Denver Catholic - A Pastoral Call to Peace from Archbishop Aquila

151. World Relief - Oppose Deportation Policies that Separate Families; Support the Dignity Act

152. United States Hispanic Business Council - Javier Palomarez, President & CEO of the USHBC, Endorses Dignity Act of 2025

153. Border Report - Dignity Act will hurt cartels, stop raids, Democrats say

154. American Immigration Council - Bipartisan Group of Legislators Keep Dream of Immigration Reform Alive with Reintroduced ‘DIGNIDAD’ Act

155. Clean Link - Dignity Act Could Relieve U.S. Work Visa Backlogs

156. FWD - FWD.us Statement on Reintroduction of the Bipartisan Dignity Act

157. La Opinión - ¿En qué consiste la reforma migratoria bipartidista que buscan que Trump apoye?

158. AgNet West - Immigration Reform and Ag Labor: Manuel Cunha on the Dignity Act

159. Hotel Investment Today - How the Dignity Act offers labor relief

160. CiberCuba - María Elvira Salazar presenta su “Ley Dignidad de 2025” para legalizar a inmigrantes sin antecedentes

161. The Capistrano Dispatch - THE LEVIN LETTER: Congress Must Act to Fix Broken Immigration System

162. NAFSA - Dignity Act of 2025 Includes Key International Education Provisisons

163. CEDA - Explainer: The Dignity Act of 2025

164. Hindustan Times - Dignity Act of 2025: Fast-track route to permanent residency for documented dreamers

165. WFMZ - TV- Reading Town Hall Focuses on Dignity Act immigration proposal

166. McKnights Senior Living - Bipartisan immigration reform bill aims to provide ‘earned opportunity … to stay here and work’

167. The Economic Times - US bill may end tax break for foreign students on OPT

168. Periódico Cubano - María Elvira Salazar promete acabar “muy pronto” con el problema migratorio en EE.UU.

169. Washington Examiner - House lawmakers make urgent plea to pass immigration reform with Dignity Act

170. The Epoch Times - Bipartisan Lawmakers Introduce Dignity Act, Seeking Legal Status for Some Illegal Immigrant Workers

171. Florida Politics - María Elvira Salazar believes Donald Trump could still warm up to Dignity Act, path to legal residency

172. Niskanen Center - Niskanen Center endorses the Dignity Act

173. The Hill - An immigration reform bill focused on dignity has bipartisan support

174. KCCI Des Moines - Zach Nunn hears from Iowa employers on workforce needs, immigration reform

175. Texas GOP Vote - Evangelical Leaders Commend Bipartisan Dignity Act as a Way Forward on Immigration

176. The News - Small businesses endorse bipartisan immigration bill

177. Catholic Standard - Amid shift in public opinion on immigration, Catholic advocates praise bipartisan attempt at reform

178. Brown Immigration Law - Immigration News

179. The Fresno Bee - Trump says border is secure. If so, GOP can work on immigration reform

180. CBS - Lawmakers on Capitol Hill reintroduce The Dignity Act

181. The Times of India - OPT Students may soon lose tax exemption under US lawmakers proposal

182. President’s Alliance - Latest Developments Impacting Undocumented Students and Higher Ed: What Campuses Need to Know

183. Niskanen Center - Niskanen backs the reintroduction of the Bipartisan Dignity Act

184. The American Bazaar - Dignity Act could end the 10-year green card wait

185. ABIC - Primary Election Victories for Dignity Act Cosponsors in Indiana Prove Bipartisan Immigration Solutions are a Winning Formula

186. Straight Arrow News - Dignity Act aims to soften blow of deportations, faces growing opposition

187. La Hora - Qué es la «Ley Dignidad», por la cual, criminales guatemaltecos que cometieron delitos en EE. UU. regresarían a Guatemala

188. The Orange County Register - Legalize the peaceful—but also rethink the immigration system

189. Greeley Tribune - Gabe Evans and Ryan Gonzalez: A fork in the road — Fixing the immigration system the right way

190. La Prensa Newspaper - Estafas y esperanzas de inmigrantes

191. Tax Scan - International Students on OPT May Face Higher US Taxes Under Proposed DIGNITY Act

192. The Detroit News - Castro: Our country deserves a better immigration system

193. LeadingAge - Immigration Policy Reform: LeadingAge Joins Farmers—and More

194. Greenberg Traurig - The DIGNIDAD (Dignity) Act of 2025 Seeks to Transform U.S. Immigration

195. Forbes - New Immigration Policy Likely To Block Many Family Immigrants

196. El País - Dos congresistas latinas presentan una ambiciosa propuesta bipartidista de reforma migratoria

197. Construction Citizen - Dignity Act Secures New National Endorsements as First Major Poll Shows Most Americans Support the Plan

198. Diario La Tribuna - Salvador Nasralla respalda la Ley Dignidad: Una apuesta por los migrantes hondureños

199. Austin Kocher Substack - Is the Dignity Act “Amnesty”? My Conversation with Ashley DeAzevedo and Rebecca Shi

200. Florida Politics - Maria Elvira Salazar Warns ICE directives could produce largest exodus of Christians ever from U.S.

201. Texas GOP Vote - State of Immigration in America: Salazar, Senior Pastors Warn of Impact on Churches and Families

202. Newt Gingrich 360 - Episode 935: The DIGNITY Act

203. Stewardverse - If You’re Losing Your Workforce, What Are You Supposed to Do?

204. El Nuevo Herald - Salazar presenta en la Cámara de Representantes el proyecto de ley “Dignidad” para legalizar la situación de algunos migrantes

205. ABIC - Know This Now: U.S. Citizens in Mixed-Status Marriages Face Growing Crisis

206. Texas GOP Vote - DIGNITY Act Surpasses 75 Stakeholder Endorsements as National Support Grows

207. Mid Valley Times - Parlier Puts Support behind bipartisan immigration reform

208. Construction Dive - How a Simple Fix to the EB-3 Visa Program Could Be a Win for Contractors

209. Texas GOP Vote - New Survey Exposes Growing Crisis for U.S. Citizens in Mixed Immigration Status Marriages

210. Miami Herald - Conservative groups urge Congress to pass María Elvira Salazar’s immigration bill

211. South Kern Sol News - Mcfarland City Council Voices Support for Dignity Act Immigration Reform bill

212. CubaNet - Salazar y líderes del sur de Florida impulsan el proyecto de Ley Dignidad con mucha esperanza

213. AgNet West Radio Network - Dignity Act and Labor Reform Take Center Stage in AgNet News Hour Interview

214. Commercial Carrier Journal - The Dignity Act could help fill trucking's labor gap

215. La Noticia - Ley Dignidad: ¿Qué ofrece este nuevo plan de reforma migratoria?

216. Cleanfax - DIGNITY Act Surpasses 75 Stakeholder Endorsements

217. Long Island Business News - LI business leaders hear from Congress

218. Dairy Herd Management - Dairy’s Last Shot: Why Industry Leaders Are Demanding Action on Immigration Reform

219. WATT Global Media - Dignity Act offers ag industry hope for immigration reform

220. Farm Progress - Congress’ ICE Debate a Perfect Opportunity for Immigration Reform

221. Fox 4 KDFW - Dignity Act: Dallas business owner spurs effort to protect working immigrants

222. ABIC - Bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus Members and Dignity Act Sponsors Join the Structural Building Components Association and American Business Immigration Coalition To Endorse the Dignity Act, Launch Housing Affordability Tour

223. Miami Herald - Miami congresswoman: On immigration and Pretti’s death, I have never been silent

224. Dallas Observer - Food Industry Lobbies for More Temporary Work Permits for Immigrants

225. Fox 4 News - North Texas food leaders back Dignity Act to solve immigration labor shortage

226. Conexion Migrante - Presentan una nueva reforma migratoria: La Ley Dignidad

227. Spectrum News 1 Texas - Texas restaurant leaders endorse 'Dignity Act' to address immigration workforce shortages

228. VKM Law Group - Dignity Act of 2025: A Potential $20,000 Fast Lane to Green Cards

229. The Gateway Pundit - Minnesota GOP Senate Candidate Michele Tafoya Signals Openness to ‘DIGNIDAD Act’ Amnesty Pathway for Illegal Aliens

230. Semafor - 'Be realistic': Republicans feud over immigration — again

231. Diario La Tribuna - Miles de hondureños en EE. UU. se beneficiarían con la Ley Dignidad

232. Punchbowl - The Problem Solvers backs the Dignity Act.

233. Christopher Aldana - The Dignity Act Is Not Amnesty. It Is a Serious Immigration Solution.

234. Texas GOP Vote - Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar Joins Bipartisan Leaders to Launch National Dignity Coalition and Nationwide “Dignity Tour”

235. Van Nuys News Press - The Problem Solvers Endorse the Dignity Act.

236. Restaurant Business - Restaurant operators need to keep immigration reform top of mind

237. LeadingAge Wisconsin - Bipartisan House Caucus Endorses Dignity Act Immigration Reform

238. STI/SPFA - Workforce Development & Its Impact on the Steel Industry

239. Texas GOP Vote - Pastors Bring Immigration Debate to Congress as New Report Warns of Mass Family Separation

240. Structural Building Components Association - SBCA Endorses Dignity Act of 2025, Launches Housing Affordability Tour

241. Miami Courant - GROW Coalition Announces Support for DIGNITY Act to Strengthen STEM Workforce

242. Secure Growth Initiative - Dignity Act Receives Strong Support from Business Organizations

243. Texas GOP Vote - Problem Solvers Caucus Endorses the Dignity Act

244. El Nacional - "Dignidad": las claves del proyecto de ley que María Elvira Salazar presentó para proteger a indocumentados

245. Kirsten Day Substack - People Over Politics: End Mass Detention

246. Calle Ocho News - Ley DIGNIDAD: La representante María Elvira Salazar lidera un impulso histórico para reformar la inmigración con soluciones bipartidistas

247. CiberCuba - Ley Dignidad: la propuesta de María Elvira Salazar

248. The American Bazaar - Immigrants behind 59% of America’s billion-dollar companies, research shows

249. MSN - Trump’s Immigration Enforcement Tactics are Backfiring on Republicans.

250. Construction Citizen - NAHB Endorses Dignity Act to Modernize America’s Immigration System

251. UTPSN - UTPSN Endorses the Dignity Act

252. Forum Daily - Spouses and parents of US citizens are suffering from tightened immigration policies: only 3% of those detained are dangerous criminals

253. Straight Arrow News - Why are Daca renewals taking up to six months?

254. Bloomberg Opinion - Democrats Still Need Their Own Immigration Plan. This Could Help.

255. Politico - DACA renewal delays fuel worries Trump is quietly undermining Dreamers

256. Woodpack Global - Woodpack Global Members Take Workforce Message to Capitol Hill at 2026 Washington Fly-In


Scalise: Voters Face a Clear Choice as the Democrat Party Moves Further Left

NEW ORLEANS, La.—Last night, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) joined Fox News's Hannity to discuss how the Democrat Party is increasingly nominating far-left candidates with out-of-touch policies. Leader Scalise also highlighted how Republicans' Working Families Tax Cuts are expanding opportunity for hardworking families through lower taxes, Trump accounts, and the first-ever nationwide school choice tax credit.

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


Schrier, Alsobrooks Demand Action on Infant Mortality Due to Rising Rate of Vitamin K Refusal

WASHINGTON, DC– As reported today in The New York Times, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) and Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) demanded immediate action to address a growing and preventable public health crisis: the rising rate of vitamin K refusal at birth and resulting vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) among newborns in a letter to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya.

“The vaccine misinformation and confusion that RFK Jr. has championed for years has now created a ‘spillover effect’ that is causing parents to refuse the vitamin K shot and other routine care, putting their babies at risk of life-threatening hemorrhage,” said Congresswoman Kim Schrier. “As a pediatrician and member of Congress, I am focused on doing all I can to hold RFK Jr. accountable for every preventable death and illness of our nation’s children. That is why I am proud to join Senator Alsobrooks in this effort to demand the CDC follow and publicly release data on the burden of vitamin K refusal rates.”

“RFK Jr. has spewed lies and dangerous rhetoric about vaccines, and now we are seeing the devastating consequences. Newborns are dying because their parents are refusing to give them a shot of vitamin K, an essential nutrient. We need leadership and action right now. Rep. Schrier and I are calling on the CDC to monitor and understand the burden of vitamin K refusal rates, and the related deaths – and then to make that information publicly available. This is objective information that the public deserves to see,” said Senator Alsobrooks.

“More than 60 years ago, scientists discovered that a simple injection of vitamin K administered shortly after childbirth could protect newborn babies from potentially deadly bleeding disorders. This was a game changer and is why the American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended a vitamin K injection as part of a newborn “safety bundle” since the 1960s. But false and misleading claims have led to increased rates of refusal, putting the youngest and most vulnerable babies at unnecessary risk, and now we’re seeing the devastating impacts,” said AAP President Andrew D. Racine, MD, PhD, FAAP. “I want to thank Representative Schrier and Senator Alsobrooks for bringing attention to this important issue and calling on HHS to take action to protect children, and I encourage parents with questions about vitamin K or any aspect of newborn care to speak with their child’s doctor.”

Read full text of the letter HERE.

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Sherman, Torres, Chu & Lofgren Lead CA Democratic Delegation in Demanding Disaster Aid for January 2025 LA Wildfires

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Brad Sherman (CA-32), Norma Torres (CA-35), Judy Chu (CA-28), and California Democratic Congressional Delegation Chair Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) led the California Democratic Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to congressional leadership urging that no supplemental funding package move forward until Congress passes long overdue federal disaster assistance for California communities devastated by the January 2025 Los Angeles wildfires and other communities across the country recovering from major disasters.

More than 100,000 Californians were displaced by the January 2025 wildfires, which destroyed more than 13,000 homes and properties, claimed more than two dozen lives, and caused an estimated $275 billion in economic damage. Despite the scale of the devastation, the Administration has not taken a single step to submit a supplemental disaster funding request to Congress. This inaction is on top of the Trump Administration delaying or denying Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) emergency aid, with FEMA’s own data showing that the Trump Administration is making it harder to access disaster aid and moving more slowly than previous Administrations to help disaster-hit communities.

In the letter, the members wrote:

"It is deeply disappointing that since January 2025, not a single step has been taken by the White House to submit a request for federal disaster aid, not just for California, but also for the over 30 States, Tribes, or Territories with major disaster declarations."

"President Trump's Administration is prioritizing the war in Iran over helping American communities recover from devastating disasters... Instead of taking up the June 24, 2026, Iran War supplemental request, we believe that Congress should immediately draft a federal disaster aid supplemental to help Americans rebuild their communities from the most deadly and costly wildfires in recent history."

The letter notes that while the Administration requested more than $67 billion for military operations related to President Trump's costly war of choice in Iran, it has failed to request the approximately $34 billion in federal disaster assistance needed for California's wildfire recovery, along with billions more needed by disaster-impacted states, Tribes, and territories across the country.

The California Democratic Congressional Delegation reaffirmed its commitment to working on a bipartisan disaster relief package that ensures American families receive the support they need to rebuild their homes, businesses, and communities.

Additional signers of the letter include: Aguilar, Pete; Barragán, Nanette; Bera, Ami; Brownley, Julia; Carbajal, Salud; Chu, Judy; Cisneros, Gilbert; Correa, J.; Costa, Jim; DeSaulnier, Mark; Friedman, Laura; Garamendi, John; Garcia, Robert; Gomez, Jimmy; Harder, Josh; Huffman, Jared; Jacobs, Sara; Kamlager-Dove, Sydney; Khanna, Ro; Levin, Mike; Liccardo, Sam; Lieu, Ted; Lofgren, Zoe; Matsui, Doris; Min, Dave; Mullin, Kevin; Panetta, Jimmy; Pelosi, Nancy; Peters, Scott; Rivas, Luz; Ruiz, Raul; Sánchez, Linda; Sherman, Brad; Simon, Lateefah; Takano, Mark; Thompson, Mike; Torres, Norma; Tran, Derek; Vargas, Juan; Waters, Maxine; Whitesides, George.

Full letter

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