{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"House\", party = \"Republican\" and state = \"MN\" sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/10/01/finstad-statement-on-democrats-blocking-senate-passage-of-national-fraud-enforcement-division-act-of-2026/", "Finstad Statement on Democrats Blocking Senate Passage of National Fraud Enforcement Division Act of 2026", "2026-10-01", "2026", "2026-10", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) issued the following statement after Senate Democrats blocked a unanimous consent request to pass his National Fraud Enforcement Division Act of 2026:\n\n\u201cOn September 16th, the National Fraud Enforcement Division Act passed out of the U.S. House of Representatives with overwhelming bipartisan support from my colleagues,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cWith 352 Representatives from across the country supporting a permanent National Fraud Enforcement Division within the Department of Justice, it is extremely disappointing to see Senate Democrats put fraudsters above American taxpayers by stonewalling our call for stronger federal fraud enforcement. It\u2019s high time we put partisan politics aside and bring this meaningful reform to President Trump\u2019s desk.\u201d", 1, "2026-10-01T11:23:28Z", "2026-10-01T11:25:15Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/09/30/finstad-state-legislators-county-city-leaders-release-joint-statement-regarding-new-richland-flood-prevention-infrastructure-improvements/", "Finstad, State Legislators, County, City Leaders Release Joint Statement Regarding New Richland Flood Prevention Infrastructure Improvements", "2026-09-30", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "NEW ULM, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), Minnesota State Senator Gene Dornink, Minnesota State Representatives Peggy Bennett and Tom Sexton, Waseca County Commissioner Doug Christopherson, and New Richland Mayor Janda Ferguson released the following statement regarding recent flooding in New Richland and ongoing prevention efforts:\n\n\u201cOver the past several years, the New Richland community has experienced repeated and significant flooding, with some of the most severe impacts occurring earlier this month. As public officials representing the New Richland community and its surrounding areas, we are committed to supporting immediate recovery efforts while working together at every level of government to secure the resources needed for long-term infrastructure improvements that will better protect the community from future flooding.\u201d", 1, "2026-10-01T11:23:28Z", "2026-10-01T11:25:15Z"], ["https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-cosponsors-election-integrity-legislation", "Emmer Cosponsors Election Integrity Legislation", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Tom Emmer", "E000294", "emmer.house.gov", "emmer", "https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) cosponsored Congressman Pete Stauber\u2019s (MN-08) Voter Vouching Transparency Act, which requires states with voter vouching policies, like Minnesota, to report basic information to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission about their use in federal elections. Minnesota is one of several states that have a voter vouching policy, allowing one voter to \u201cvouch\u201d for other individuals instead of providing identification to vote.\n\n\u201cMinnesota\u2019s vouching policy is an open invitation for voter fraud. Allowing one voter to vouch for up to eight others does not make for safe, secure elections. In fact, it does the opposite,\u201d said Congressman Tom Emmer. \u201cAnyone who argues otherwise should admit the truth: they want ineligible individuals to vote in our elections. With this legislation, we will bring oversight and transparency to a policy that provides a clear avenue for fraud.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nIn Minnesota, any individual whose name appears on Minnesota\u2019s voter rolls can \u201cvouch\u201d for the identity and eligibility of up to eight other individuals attempting to vote without ever showing any form of identification.\n\nThe Voter Voucher Transparency Act follows over a year of requests from the Department of Justice (DOJ) for information on Minnesota\u2019s voter lists and compliance with federal election guidelines. The DOJ has made numerous attempts to obtain information on Minnesota\u2019s voter-list maintenance practices and Help America Vote Act (HAVA) compliance. Minnesota has not complied with the DOJ\u2019s requests.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-introduces-legislation-create-transparency-voter-vouching", "Stauber Introduces Legislation to Create Transparency on Voter Vouching", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Pete Stauber", "S001212", "stauber.house.gov", "stauber", "https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08), along with Majority Whip Tom Emmer, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach, and Congressman Brad Finstad, introduced the Voter Voucher Transparency Act, legislation that will create a standardized federal reporting requirement so the public can see how often voter vouching is used in federal elections.\n\nSpecifically, this legislation would require states to report the number of individuals who registered to vote using a voucher, the total number of voters who served as vouchers, the number of individuals vouched for by each voucher, and the number of attempted vouching registrations that were not accepted, including the reasons for denial.\n\nOf his legislation, Congressman Stauber stated, \u201cUnder Democrat leadership, Minnesota became ground zero for welfare fraud, so it should come as no surprise that these same Democrat leaders are also enabling election fraud through the state\u2019s controversial voter vouching system. Allowing one person to vouch for up to eight voters creates an environment where illegal immigrants can easily cast ballots. This is wrong, and it is un-American. Unfortunately, Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon has done everything in his power to prevent transparency on this issue. We can\u2019t fix what we can\u2019t measure, which is why I am proud to introduce legislation requiring a federal reporting requirement on voter vouching to understand the full scope of the issue here in Minnesota and nationwide. Only Americans should decide the outcome of U.S. elections, and I will not stop fighting until election integrity is restored.\u201d\n\nIn the state of Minnesota, an individual seeking to become registered to vote on Election Day can confirm their residency simply by having a registered voter \u201cvouch\u201d for them. Registered voters can vouch for up to eight people, and staff at residential facilities can vouch for an unlimited number of facility residents. Compounding this issue, Governor Walz also signed the \u201cDriver\u2019s Licenses for All\u201d bill into law, allowing individuals to obtain a standard driver\u2019s license or state ID regardless of their immigration status.", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-statement-mesabi-metallics-plan-build-15-billion-steel-mill-iowa", "Stauber Statement on Mesabi Metallics\u2019 Plan to Build a $15 Billion Steel Mill in Iowa", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Pete Stauber", "S001212", "stauber.house.gov", "stauber", "https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) made the following statement in response to today\u2019s announcement that Mesabi Metallics plans to build a $15 billion steel mill in Iowa. This will be the largest steel plant in U.S. history and is expected to produce 7.5 million or more tons of steel each year while employing as many as 1,700 workers.\n\n\u201cI am proud that Mesabi Metallics recently opened their new mine in Minnesota\u2019s Eighth Congressional District \u2013 the first new mine to be built on the Iron Range in over 50 years. Furthermore, I appreciate the President\u2019s commitment to revitalize America\u2019s steel industry and am excited that the taconite produced on Minnesota\u2019s Mighty Iron Range will play a vital role in that national effort.\n\n\u201cHowever, building this facility in Iowa is a missed opportunity for Northern Minnesota. The hardworking union men and women on the Iron Range stood ready to build, operate, and support a facility of this scale. Yet, their state leaders failed them. While Iowa\u2019s leaders have fostered a pro-growth environment that attracts investment and jobs, the Walz-Flanagan Administration have done the opposite. Their abysmal leadership has driven away opportunity through hostility to industry and indifference to the Iron Range. They shoulder all the blame for this 15-billion-dollar project, along with its 1,700 family-sustaining jobs, going to our neighbor to the south.\n\n\u201cMinnesota cannot afford more of the same. We need state leaders who make Minnesota a place that welcomes investment and the jobs that come with it, not a place that is repeatedly overlooked because it continues to chase investment away.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/09/25/finstad-hosts-roundtable-with-biofuels-leaders-in-janesville/", "Finstad Hosts Roundtable with Biofuels Leaders in Janesville", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "September 25, 2026\n\nNEW ULM, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), member of the House Agriculture Committee, hosted a roundtable discussion with the Minnesota Biofuels Association, Guardian Energy, and local farmers for a conversation on homegrown energy production and a tour of the Guardian Energy facility. Representatives from Minnesota Corn and Cole\u2019s Electric were also in attendance.\n\nWith four locations across the Midwest, Guardian Energy is one of the largest ethanol production groups in the United States. Their Janesville location is currently undergoing a construction project to build one of the world\u2019s largest grain bins, with a 2.3 million bushel capacity.", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-attends-monticello-water-treatment-plant-ribbon-cutting", "Emmer Attends Monticello Water Treatment Plant Ribbon Cutting", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Tom Emmer", "E000294", "emmer.house.gov", "emmer", "https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "MONTICELLO, MN \u2013 Yesterday, Congressman Tom Emmer attended the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Monticello's new Water Treatment Plant. September 23, 2026 marked the start of construction of the new facility to provide safe drinking water to the surrounding community.\n\n\u201cThis much-needed Water Treatment Plant will make a difference for Monticello and the surrounding communities,\u201d said Congressman Emmer. \u201cWe\u2019re grateful for the local leaders who have worked so hard to get this project underway. It\u2019s great to know that those who live and work in Monticello will continue to have access to safe, clean water for years to come.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nMonticello, Minnesota is a growing city in Wright County with a population of approximately 14,600 residents, located roughly 41 miles northwest of Minneapolis. Monticello residents connected to city water are served by five municipal wells that feed water into the distribution system. While Monticello's wells meet all Safe Drinking Water Act Standards, testing shows an elevated level of manganese. Because of this, the city is building a new filtration system and water treatment plant.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/09/24/finstad-calls-for-increased-usps-communication-regarding-closure-of-glenville-post-office/", "Finstad Calls for Increased USPS Communication Regarding Closure of Glenville Post Office", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "September 24, 2026\n\nROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) sent a letter to District Manager of the United States Postal Service\u2019s Minnesota-North Dakota District Angela Bye, requesting clarity and increased communication following the closure of the Glenville Post Office.\n\nOn June 28, 2026, a vehicle struck the Glenville Post Office, causing damage to the front of the building. The next day, Postal Service operations were halted and customers were informed mail could be picked up at the Albert Lea Post Office, about seven miles away. Since then, city officials and residents of Glenville have received minimal updates on a reopening date or timeline of resumed operations.\n\nThe letter reads:\n\n\u201cDear District Manager Bye,\n\n\u201cI am writing regarding the continued closure of the Glenville Post Office located at 220 W. Main Street in Glenville, Minnesota following a vehicle collision that damaged the building. I am concerned about the length of the closure and the impact it is having on residents, businesses, and other postal customers in the Glenville community. It is important that you communicate clearly with the City of Glenville about the timeline and process of reopening the post office.\n\n\u201cOn June 28, 2026, a vehicle struck the Glenville Post Office building, leaving damage to the front of the building. Since then, the Postal Service has halted operations at this location with no indication to the local community on the status of restoring postal operations. Residents should not be left without convenient access to postal services for an extended and indefinite period, particularly without clear information about what is being done to restore services.\n\n\u201cNumerous constituents of mine have contacted my office stating that they have had no correspondence with the Postal Service on a reopening date or a timeline for resumed operations. While I understand that unforeseen circumstances can complicate the repair of a damaged postal facility, the residents of Glenville deserve transparency regarding the status of their post office and a clear understanding of when normal service will return.\n\n\u201cLocal residents rely on their Post Office for essential mailing services. This includes receiving medications, bill payments, stamps, shipping packages, and regular correspondence. Further, this closure can have a profound impact on Glenville\u2019s Main Street businesses that rely on the Post Office to connect with customers and remain competitive.\n\n\u201cI respectfully request information on the following questions:\n\nWhat is the current status of the Glenville Post Office following the vehicle collision?\n\nWhat repairs or other corrective actions are required before the facility can reopen?\n\nHow is the Postal Service communicating with the City of Glenville about the closure and anticipated reopening, and how will you communicate with City officials going forward?\n\nWhat temporary measures has USPS implemented to ensure Glenville residents continue to have reasonable access to postal services?\n\n\u201cI respectfully urge USPS to work with the local postmaster to reopen the Glenville Post Office as soon as possible and keep the local community informed on the steps being taken to do so. Thank you for your attention to this matter.\n\n\u201cSincerely,", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-hosts-firefighter-roundtable-in-carver-county", "Emmer Hosts Firefighter Roundtable in Carver County", "2026-09-23", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Tom Emmer", "E000294", "emmer.house.gov", "emmer", "https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "CHANHASSEN, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Tom Emmer hosted a roundtable discussion with firefighters and mayors in Minnesota\u2019s Sixth Congressional District to learn more about the challenges that fire services face and to share information about federal resources that can help with equipment, staffing, and training.\n\n\u201cOur 6th District is home to some of the best firefighters in the nation, and they deserve our full and total support,\u201d said Congressman Emmer. \u201cThey put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe, and we are dedicated to making sure our district\u2019s fire services have the resources they need.\u201d\n\n\u201cI sincerely appreciate Congressman Emmer reaching out and visiting with fire service leaders,\u201d said St. Cloud Fire Chief Matthew Love. \u201cThis was a great opportunity to discuss topics that have a substantial impact on St. Cloud and the greater Minnesota Fire Service.\u201d\n\nAttendees included:\n\nJohn Harnois: Fire Chief, Buffalo\n\nElise Ryan: Mayor, Chanhassen\n\nMatt Lunser: Fire Chief, Clear Lake\n\nMatt Van Lith: Fire Chief, Delano\n\nJeff Cielocha: Fire Chief, East Bethel\n\nBrent Ambuehl: Fire Chief, Sartell\n\nMatthew Love: Fire Chief, St. Cloud\n\nDave Schmidt: Fire Chief, St. Francis & Bethel\n\nTim Fiedler: Fire Chief, St. Michael\n\nDave Shoger: Fire Chief, Victoria\n\nJustin Sorenson: Fire Chief, Waconia\n\nShawn Downs: Fire Chief, Waite Park\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-24T09:44:48Z", "2026-09-24T09:45:52Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/09/23/finstad-house-majority-whip-emmer-host-emergency-services-roundtable-in-cannon-falls/", "Finstad, House Majority Whip Emmer Host Emergency Services Roundtable in Cannon Falls", "2026-09-23", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "ROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06) hosted a roundtable discussion in Cannon Falls with southern Minnesota law enforcement, ambulance services, fire departments, and emergency service providers to hear about their local infrastructure needs and federal resources available to their communities.\n\n\u201cOur emergency services personnel are the key to keeping our friends, families, and neighbors safe,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cAs Members of Congress, these conversations with our public safety community keep us engaged with the needs of the finest and bravest in Minnesota. I\u2019m grateful to House Majority Whip Emmer for joining me in the First District today to hear from these men and women, and for the folks in attendance who took time to speak with us.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s always a good day when I get to work with my friend, Congressman Brad Finstad. We had the chance to meet with some of Minnesota\u2019s best emergency services personnel while in the First District,\u201d said Rep. Emmer. \u201cThese brave men and women risk their lives every day to keep us safe, facing one uphill battle after another. Today was an important opportunity to hear from them and reaffirm our unwavering support.\u201d\n\nIn attendance were representatives from public safety and emergency departments across southern Minnesota, including Brownsville, Cannon Falls, Faribault, Mower County, Nerstrand, Northfield, Oronoco, Red Wing, Rochester, Sleepy Eye, St. Charles, West Concord, and Zumbrota.", 1, "2026-09-24T09:44:48Z", "2026-09-24T09:45:52Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/9/rep-fischbach-honored-with-growth-energy-s-fueling-growth-award", "Rep. Fischbach Honored with Growth Energy's Fueling Growth Award", "2026-09-21", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) was recognized with Growth Energy's Fueling Growth Award at its annual Biofuels Summit for her leadership and advocacy on behalf of America\u2019s ethanol producers, corn growers, and rural communities.\n\nAt the summit in Washington, D.C., Representative Fischbach highlighted the House\u2019s work to advance permanent, year-round E15 sales and called on the Senate to pass the legislation.\n\n\"In the House, we have done our job. We passed the Farm Bill, and we passed permanent, year-round E15,\" said Rep. Fischbach. \"We proved that year-round E15 is a win for the American consumer with savings of 20 to 40 cents a gallon at the pump, a win for national security by keeping homegrown fuel in our tanks, and a win for our corn growers and ethanol producers.\"\n\nFischbach served as a key champion, using her position on the Rules Committee to navigate the year-round E15 legislation through the House of Representatives. She also urged attendees during her address to press Senate offices during their Capitol Hill visits to deliver regulatory certainty for agricultural producers and consumers.\n\n\"The Farm Bill and our E15 legislation sit across the Capitol in the Senate, stalled while our growers continue to face outdated regulations and are forced to rely on temporary, short-term emergency waivers,\" Fischbach continued. \"I am tired of hitting the pause button on American energy every summer, and I know you are too. The House finished the work, and now the Senate needs to step up, pass these bills, and get them across the finish line.\"", 1, "2026-09-22T09:42:49Z", "2026-09-22T09:44:35Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/09/18/finstad-hosts-crop-insurance-discussion-with-usda-rma-administrator-swanson-southern-minnesota-ag-producers/", "Finstad Hosts Crop Insurance Discussion with USDA RMA Administrator Swanson, Southern Minnesota Ag Producers", "2026-09-18", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "ROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), fourth-generation farmer and member of the House Agriculture Committee, hosted a roundtable discussion in Faribault with U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Risk Management Agency (RMA) Administrator Pat Swanson to hear from southern Minnesota agricultural producers and local crop insurance agents about the availability and effectiveness of federal crop insurance programs following improvements made through H.R. 1, the Working Families Tax Cuts.\n\n\u201cI know firsthand that crop insurance is the number one risk management tool that farmers depend on, which is why I\u2019m especially proud of the work we\u2019ve done in the Working Families Tax Cuts to strengthen our federal crop insurance programs, making coverage more accessible and affordable,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cI\u2019m grateful that Administrator Swanson could join me today to hear from the men and women who are directly benefiting from these provisions and discuss ways we can continue to improve our federal crop insurance programs for the farmers and rural families who need them. Thank you to all those who joined in today\u2019s important conversation.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-19T09:11:33Z", "2026-09-19T09:12:45Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/9/rep-fischbach-s-empowering-moms-act-advances-out-of-ways-and-means-committee", "Rep. Fischbach\u2019s Empowering Moms Act Advances Out of Ways and Means Committee", "2026-09-18", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC - Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach\u2019s (MN-07) Empowering Moms Act (H.R. 10356) passed out of the House Ways and Means Committee today, marking a step toward expanding comprehensive support and federal resources for parents nationwide.\n\n\"Expecting and new mothers deserve easy access to compassionate care and clear medical information,\" said Rep. Fischbach. \"The Empowering Moms Act gives women real resources to help them navigate pregnancy and raise their families. We must do everything in our power to support mothers during their pregnancies and after. This bill does exactly that.\"\n\n\"Every mother deserves a clear path to the resources that can help her and her baby thrive,\" said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08). \"Too many pregnant women and new moms do not know where to turn for health care, financial help, or basic parenting support in their own community. The Empowering Moms Act helps make those resources easier to find by turning President Trump's one-stop website, Moms.gov, into a permanent, comprehensive directory that connects mothers to help close to home. This bill reflects Representative Fischbach's long-standing commitment to moms and families. I am grateful for her work to help moms and babies across the country thrive.\"\n\nThe Empowering Moms Act codifies Moms.gov as a central resource for expecting and new parents with information about pregnancy resource centers, adoption agencies, and other relevant public and private resources available to women near their zip code and surrounding areas, including:\n\nHealth and well-being services, such as prenatal diagnostics, breastfeeding support, pregnancy wellness, primary care, and infant loss support.\n\nMaterial support for formula, diapers, household goods, and child care.\n\nMental health services with respect to domestic violence and sexual assault.\n\nComprehensive information on alternatives to abortion and abortion risks.\n\nThis legislation will also require HHS to maintain a national list of federal funding opportunities available to non-profit and health care entities that provide pregnancy support services and will promote the life of unborn children by prohibiting Moms.gov from including information about entities that provide abortions.", 1, "2026-09-22T09:42:49Z", "2026-09-22T09:44:35Z"], ["https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-introduces-legislation-to-reclaim-local-control", "Emmer Introduces Legislation to Reclaim Local Control", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Tom Emmer", "E000294", "emmer.house.gov", "emmer", "https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) introduced new legislation to reclaim local control by revoking a grandfathering clause that has allowed the Metropolitan (Met) Council to operate as the only Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) in the nation composed entirely of gubernatorial appointees without any local elected officials. Minnesota\u2019s Met Council consists of Governor Walz\u2019s appointees who routinely prioritize wasteful transit projects and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives over Minnesota\u2019s actual infrastructure needs. The Reclaim Local Control Act will restore local control over Minnesota\u2019s infrastructure dollars. Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08), Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), and Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) are original cosponsors of Emmer\u2019s bill.\n\n\u201cWalz\u2019s hand-picked board of radical extremists puts \u2018green\u2019 scams and DEI transit projects ahead of the roads and bridges that Minnesotans actually need,\u201d said Congressman Emmer. \u201cOur constituents in Carver and Anoka counties are being left behind while the rest of the metro gets funding galore for DEI nonsense. It\u2019s time to reclaim local control and end Big Government overreach.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nThe Met Council is a policy-making board of 17 members appointed by the governor. The Council oversees the planning of communities, housing, parks, transportation, wastewater, and water in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area. Their work covers 181 cities and townships and seven counties, including Carver and Anoka counties, which are a part of the Sixth Congressional District.\n\nIn 1991, MPOs were designated to be composed of local elected officials. However, a grandfathering clause that was included allowed the Met Council to continue to be made up of only gubernatorial appointees. The Governor\u2019s sole authority to appoint board members to the Met Council has led to partisan priorities being addressed over Minnesota\u2019s actual infrastructure needs, to the detriment of areas that do not meet its arbitrary DEI standards.\n\nCongressman Emmer and the rest of Minnesota\u2019s Republican Congressional delegation have led the charge to oppose funding for wasteful transit projects by sending letters to the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD) in 2025 and 2026.\n\nIn April, Congressman Emmer sent a letter to the Met Council to express his opposition to the Council\u2019s proposal to use Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in awarding transportation funding in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, including Carver and Anoka counties.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/9/rep-fischbach-hosting-service-academy-nomination-information-session", "Rep. Fischbach Hosting Service Academy Nomination Information Session", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Willmar, MN - Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach's (MN-07) office will be co-hosting an information session with Congressman Tom Emmer's (MN-06) office on September 22nd, from 6:00pm - 7:30pm at the St. Cloud Library (1300 W St Germain St) to discuss service academy nominations.\n\nAny interested students and parents are invited to attend this session to learn more about the application and nomination process. They can also find more information by visiting the Congresswoman's website or clicking here.", 1, "2026-09-22T09:42:49Z", "2026-09-22T09:44:35Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/09/16/finstad-applauds-house-passage-of-the-national-fraud-enforcement-division-act-of-2026/", "Finstad Applauds House Passage of the National Fraud Enforcement Division Act of 2026", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) applauded the passage of their legislation, H.R. 9576, the National Fraud Enforcement Division Act of 2026, in the U.S. House of Representatives. This legislation would make permanent the newly established National Fraud Enforcement Division within the Department of Justice (DOJ) and appoint an Assistant Attorney General for National Fraud Enforcement to lead the division to investigate, prosecute, and prevent fraud within federally funded programs.\n\n\u201cIn Minnesota, we\u2019ve seen the systematic failure of Governor Walz and his administration refusing to investigate fraudsters and safeguard Americans\u2019 hard-earned taxpayer dollars,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cMeanwhile, the Trump Administration and the Department of Justice have taken decisive action, including establishing the National Fraud Enforcement Division to investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars.\u201d\n\nFinstad continued, \u201cI\u2019m proud to see my National Fraud Enforcement Division Act of 2026 pass in the House today, codifying the National Fraud Enforcement Division within the DOJ and establishing a permanent framework to strengthen our federal fraud prosecution efforts.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/09/16/reps-finstad-morrison-applaud-committee-passage-of-the-sbic-reporting-modernization-act-of-2026/", "Reps. Finstad, Morrison Applaud Committee Passage of the SBIC Reporting Modernization Act of 2026", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Congresswoman Kelly Morrison (MN-03), members of the House Committee on Small Business, applauded the unanimous committee passage of the SBIC Reporting Modernization Act of 2026. This bipartisan legislation will require the Small Business Administration (SBA) to publish quarterly, rather than annually, reports regarding the performance of the Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) program and enhance reporting metrics to improve Congressional oversight. The SBIC program is one of the highest performing programs within the SBA, working to connect American small businesses to private equity capital and long-term debt financing.\n\nSpecifically, the SBIC Reporting Modernization Act of 2026:\n\nEnhances Congressional oversight into the SBIC program to ensure that American taxpayers\u2019 dollars are being put to good use.\n\nRequires quarterly reporting to give Congress current data on the volume of funding entering and leaving the programs, the level of outstanding leverage, and the outcomes the programs generate in financing and employment.\n\nExpands the scope of data in the report for Congress, including the number of applicants receiving Green Light letters and how many of those applicants raise enough private capital to secure the leverage commitment they were approved for.\n\n\u201cSBICs play a vital role in connecting entrepreneurs and small business owners to the capital they need to start and grow their businesses,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cIn requiring the SBA to publish quarterly reports on the performance of the SBIC program, Congress and the American people will have clear information and reporting measures to improve transparency and accountability, while ensuring our small businesses succeed. I\u2019m proud to work alongside Congresswoman Morrison and my House Committee on Small Business colleagues to pass the SBIC Reporting Modernization Act of 2026 out of committee and continue delivering for Main Street.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/09/14/finstad-calls-on-department-of-justice-to-investigate-hennepin-county-attorneys-office-following-recent-minneapolis-shooting/", "Finstad Calls on Department of Justice to Investigate Hennepin County Attorney\u2019s Office Following Recent Minneapolis Shooting", "2026-09-14", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) led Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) and Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) in sending a letter to U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche and the Department of Justice calling for a review of the Hennepin County Attorney\u2019s Office and Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty following the lack of legal action taken prior to the September 2, 2026 shooting in downtown Minneapolis that left two people dead and several others injured, including two law enforcement officers.\n\nThe suspected shooter, Carlton Johnson II, had a well-established history of violence, including threatening a resident at his apartment building, brandishing a firearm, and sexually assaulting and threatening a woman. In total, Johnson had accumulated 34 criminal cases in Minnesota, spanning more than a decade. The lack of legal action taken by the Hennepin County Attorney\u2019s Office leading up to the tragic event on September 2nd raises serious concerns about what investigative and prosecutorial procedures were followed.\n\nThe letter reads:\n\n\u201cDear U.S. Attorney General Blanche,\n\n\u201cWe are writing to strongly request that the Department of Justice review the circumstances surrounding the Hennepin County Attorney\u2019s Office, particularly Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty, and the lack of legal action taken involving Carlton Johnson II, the suspect of the September 2, 2026, Minneapolis shooting that left two people dead and several others injured, including law enforcement officers.\n\n\u201cLeading up to this tragic event, Hennepin County prosecutors declined to bring charges against Carlton Johnson II after he threatened a resident at the Shoreline Plaza building and brandished a firearm back in June of this year. The office claimed there was \u201cinsufficient evidence to prove a charge beyond a reasonable doubt.\u201d In 2023, Johnson sexually assaulted and threatened a woman and in response she filed a restraining order against him. In total, Johnson had accumulated 34 separate criminal cases in the Twin Cities. The blatant lack of legal action taken by the Hennepin County Attorney\u2019s Office that subsequently led to the Minneapolis shooting, raises serious questions about whether appropriate investigative and prosecutorial procedures were followed.\n\n\u201cThis is not the first case where the Hennepin County Attorney\u2019s Office, led by Mary Moriarty, poorly exercised their prosecutorial discretion. In 2024, we sent a letter to Governor Tim Walz regarding our concerns about her prosecution of Minnesota State Patrol Trooper Ryan Londregan. Ms. Moriarty weaponized her position against law enforcement and ignored an independent use-of-force expert chosen by her own office, who stated that Trooper Londregan acted as a \u201creasonable officer\u201d would have. After many months, Ms. Moriarty came to the same conclusion as the experts did and dropped all charges against Trooper Londregan. These cases show a pattern of poor prosecutorial discretion by Ms. Moriarty and undermine confidence in the fair and impartial administration of justice.\n\n\u201cWe respectfully request that the Department of Justice review the actions of the Hennepin County Attorney\u2019s Office regarding Carlton Johnson II and his violent past leading up to the Minneapolis shooting. When credible warnings are shown and brought to authorities, it is their responsibility to act, Ms. Moriarty\u2019s dismissal of charges has led to injured law enforcement officers and the loss of Minnesotans.\n\n\u201cThank you for your attention to this important matter. We look forward to your response and do not hesitate to contact our offices if we can be of further assistance.\n\n\u201cSincerely,\n\nBrad Finstad, Member of Congress\n\nPete Stauber, Member of Congress", 1, "2026-09-15T09:50:21Z", "2026-09-15T09:52:05Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/9/fischbach-minnesota-republican-delegation-confront-walz-on-recent-minnesota-fraud-report", "Fischbach, Minnesota Republican Delegation Confront Walz on recent Minnesota Fraud Report", "2026-09-10", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC - Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06), Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08), joined Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) in sending a letter to Governor Walz on the recent findings of more fraud in Minnesota, this time involving a Liberian government official who is connected to at least two dozen Minnesota group homes that have collected $36 million of taxpayer funds over the last ten years.\n\n\u201cMinnesotans work hard for their money, and they have every right to expect that their tax dollars are supporting vulnerable families, not being lost to fraud due to a lack of state oversight,\u201d said Rep. Fischbach. \u201cThe Walz Administration has shown a complete lack of accountability. Minnesotans deserve answers and corrective action to protect their tax dollars.\u201d\n\nTo address the oversight failures highlighted by cases like this, Congresswoman Fischbach recently introduced the Federal Funds Whistleblower Protection Extension Act. The legislation stops whistleblower retaliation that often prevents fraud reporting by extending federal protections to state and local government employees, contractors, and subcontractors. Her bill follows a House Oversight Committee hearing where Minnesota State Representatives confirmed there are currently no criminal penalties for government officials who retaliate against individuals who speak out about fraud. The legislation would make it a federal crime for any state official who knowingly tries to ruin a whistleblower's life to protect a political narrative, with penalties of up to five years in federal prison.\n\nBackground\n\nRecently, a Minnesota news outlet released the findings of its investigation into several group homes with reports of neglect and even investigations into the deaths of several residents. At the center of this investigation is Sekou Dukuly, a man who relocated to Africa from Minnesota in 2024 to become the director of Liberia\u2019s government-owned port system while remaining the director of three Minnesota group homes.", 1, "2026-09-22T09:42:49Z", "2026-09-22T09:44:35Z"], ["https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-minnesota-republican-delegation-confront-walz-on-recent-minnesota-fraud-report", "Emmer, Minnesota Republican Delegation Confront Walz on recent Minnesota Fraud Report", "2026-09-08", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Tom Emmer", "E000294", "emmer.house.gov", "emmer", "https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06), Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08), and Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) joined Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) in sending a letter to Governor Walz on the recent findings of more fraud in Minnesota, this time on a Liberian government official who is connected to at least two dozen Minnesota group homes that have collected $36 million of taxpayer funds over the last ten years.\n\n\u201cOur state\u2019s tax dollars are being siphoned off by the millions, and yet Governor Walz sits on his hands and refuses to do anything about it,\u201d said Congressman Emmer. \u201cThis likely fraud scheme doesn\u2019t just hurt Minnesota taxpayers, it hurts the vulnerable individuals in the group homes this Liberian national claimed to run. Tim Walz is without question the worst governor in America.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nRecently, a Minnesota news outlet released the findings of their investigation into several group homes with reports of neglect and even investigations into the deaths of several residents. At the center of this investigation is Sekou Dukuly, a man who relocated to Africa from Minnesota in 2024 to become the director of Liberia\u2019s government-owned port system while remaining the director of three Minnesota group homes.\n\nYou can read the letter sent to Walz in its entirety here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-09T09:27:09Z", "2026-09-09T09:29:04Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/09/08/finstad-leads-minnesota-congressional-republicans-in-demanding-accountability-from-governor-walz-after-alleged-fraud-involving-liberian-official-receiving-public-funds/", "Finstad Leads Minnesota Congressional Republicans in Demanding Accountability from Governor Walz After Alleged Fraud Involving Liberian Official Receiving Public Funds", "2026-09-08", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) led Minnesota Congressional Republicans in sending a letter to Governor Tim Walz highlighting concerns regarding allegations that companies linked to a highly ranked Liberian government official, Sekou Dukuly, received approximately $36 million in public funds to operate group homes in Minnesota. According to recent reports, Golden Touch Health Care and other group homes were investigated numerous times over the past decade for suspected maltreatment of their residents.\n\nThe letter reads:\n\n\u201cDear Governor Walz,\n\n\u201cWe write today to express our profound concern regarding the recent report of a Liberian government official receiving federally funded, state administered taxpayer dollars. This is yet another failure of your administration in safeguarding public funds.\n\n\u201cThe latest allegations involving Golden Touch Health Care represent yet another troubling example. According to recent reporting, companies linked to Sekou Dukuly, who is a high ranking official in Liberia, received approximately $36 million in taxpayer funds over the past decade to operate group homes for vulnerable Minnesotans. During that period, state authorities investigated suspected maltreatment at affiliated facilities on at least 22 occasions, including cases involving resident deaths and substantiated neglect in multiple cases.\n\n\u201cWhile the Minnesota Department of Health has suspended payments to affiliated providers, citing credible allegations of Medicaid fraud, and has moved to close three facilities, this appears to be another example of your administration acting only after journalists, whistleblowers, or federal investigators expose serious misconduct.\n\n\u201cThese allegations are deeply concerning, but they are not occurring in isolation. Minnesota taxpayers have repeatedly learned of alleged fraud and misuse involving Medicaid services, child care assistance, housing programs, and other publicly funded programs. This is a systematic failure of your administration\u2019s oversight mechanisms that continues to permeate across the state.\n\n\u201cMinnesotans deserve to know why warning signs continue to be missed and why providers facing serious allegations remain eligible to receive taxpayer dollars. They also deserve confidence that state agencies are taking proactive steps to prevent fraud instead of simply responding after public funds have already been lost and vulnerable residents have been placed at risk.\n\n\u201cAs a result of your failures, our state is under a microscope and providers who have done everything by the book are being punished by these bad actors draining our state\u2019s resources. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) continues to withhold Medicaid dollars from the state because additional fraud continues to be uncovered with no accountability coming from your administration.\n\n\u201cMinnesotans are tired of learning about another alleged fraud scheme only after billions of taxpayer dollars have been placed at risk. They deserve transparency, accountability, and lasting reform.\n\n\u201cSincerely,\n\nBrad Finstad, Member of Congress\n\nTom Emmer, Member of Congress\n\nPete Stauber, Member of Congress", 1, "2026-09-09T09:27:09Z", "2026-09-09T09:29:04Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/09/04/finstad-kennedy-introduce-the-reducing-arbitrary-barriers-to-apprenticeship-act-of-2026/", "Finstad, Kennedy Introduce the Reducing Arbitrary Barriers to Apprenticeship Act of 2026", "2026-09-04", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) introduced the Reducing Arbitrary Barriers to Apprenticeship Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation which increases access to GI Bill benefits for veterans pursuing apprenticeships or on-the-job training programs. Currently, veterans who are pursuing these programs have their monthly housing allowance reduced by 20% every six months. This legislation would ensure beneficiaries receive a full monthly housing allowance and there are no reductions based on semiannual reviews or monthly work hours. Companion legislation has been introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senator Tim Sheehy (R-MT) and Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI).\n\n\u201cVeterans sacrifice so much in defense of our freedoms and deserve access to the benefits they\u2019ve earned, regardless of their educational track or career goals,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cFour-year degrees aren\u2019t the only option, and oftentimes those pursuing other programs experience reduced allowances. That\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to join Congressman Kennedy in introducing the Reducing Arbitrary Barriers to Apprenticeship Act of 2026, ensuring veterans pursuing apprenticeships and on-the-job training programs have the GI Bill benefits they deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur veterans deserve every opportunity to build a successful career following their service to our nation,\u201d said Rep. Kennedy. \u201cChoosing an apprenticeship or career in the skilled trades should never mean sacrificing hard-earned educational benefits simply because it does not follow the traditional four-year college track. This bipartisan bill removes barriers and ensures that our veterans can access the benefits they\u2019ve earned while building careers in the trades that strengthen Western New York and our entire country.\u201d\n\nBackground:", 1, "2026-09-05T08:49:07Z", "2026-09-05T08:50:44Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/09/01/finstad-votes-to-fund-government-prevent-costly-shutdown/", "Finstad Votes to Fund Government, Prevent Costly Shutdown", "2026-09-01", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) released a statement following today\u2019s passage of the Senate amendment to H.R. 6500, Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2027, legislation that extends government funding with a continuing resolution (CR) through December 11, 2026:\n\n\u201cAlmost a year ago, we experienced a record-long government shutdown and over 40 days of uncertainty because Democrats chose to inflict chaos and disruption on Americans rather than keep the government open and operating,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cMy House Republican colleagues and I have remained committed to responsibly funding the government and putting the American people above the political games to ensure our constituents have the essential government services they rely on. I was proud to vote yes and pass a clean CR, preventing another costly shutdown and funding the government through December 11. Now, I urge my Democrat colleagues in the House and Senate to work with us between now and December to pass the full-year appropriations bills that will fund the government through next September. The American people deserve certainty, and Congress should do its job and get this done.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-02T09:19:58Z", "2026-09-02T09:20:51Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/08/28/finstad-deluzio-introduce-the-water-authority-cybersecurity-protection-act/", "Finstad, Deluzio Introduce the\u00a0Water Authority Cybersecurity Protection Act", "2026-08-28", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) introduced the Water Authority Cybersecurity Protection Act. This bipartisan legislation would double the amount of funding available in certain grants and technical assistance to local water authorities to strengthen cybersecurity efforts.\n\nIn July, Minnesota faced more than 30 cyberattacks on water systems potentially linked to Iran. At least 11 other states have reported possible cyberattacks to their water systems\u2014with some experiencing flooding and reduced water pressure or going offline completely. At least 100 municipalities across the country have reported potential hacking efforts to their water systems.\n\n\u201cWe have seen far too many instances of cybersecurity threats to our critical water systems,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cJust this summer, Minnesota experienced over 30 cyberattacks targeting operational technologies that our communities rely on. I am proud to join Congressman Deluzio in introducing this important, bipartisan legislation that will help ensure our local water authorities have the proper capabilities to respond to threats from foreign adversaries.\u201d", 1, "2026-08-28T17:11:49Z", "2026-08-28T17:13:14Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/08/27/finstad-joins-minnesota-ambulance-association-for-ems-roundtable-in-austin/", "Finstad Joins Minnesota Ambulance Association for EMS Roundtable in Austin", "2026-08-27", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "ROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) attended a roundtable discussion with ambulance service leaders, emergency medical professionals, hospital representatives, and local officials hosted by the Minnesota Ambulance Association to discuss the challenges that are impacting emergency medical services (EMS) providers in southern Minnesota. The conversation covered topics like Medicare reimbursement rates, federal programs and grants, workforce challenges, and coordination with health care providers.\n\n\u201cOur dedicated EMS providers work day in and day out to ensure our families, friends, and neighbors have lifesaving emergency transport and medical services,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cAccess to ambulance services is an essential part of our rural healthcare and public safety infrastructure. Hearing the experiences and concerns directly from our first responders is what guides my efforts to support and advocate for our local providers while in Washington.\u201d", 1, "2026-08-28T17:11:49Z", "2026-08-28T17:13:14Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/08/27/finstad-joins-u-s-global-leadership-coalition-for-roundtable-in-rochester/", "Finstad Joins U.S. Global Leadership Coalition for Roundtable in Rochester", "2026-08-27", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "ROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) joined the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition for a roundtable in Rochester to discuss how strategic investments in diplomacy and international assistance strengthen our national security, expand opportunities for Minnesota agricultural producers, and showcase the best of American values around the globe. The Q&A session brought together representatives from Minnesota businesses, agriculture groups, and nonprofit organizations, as well as leaders in the local community. Congressman Finstad released a statement following the roundtable, saying:\n\n\u201cI believe America\u2019s strength comes not only from our military, but from our economic opportunity, our social fabric, and hardworking farmers, miners, loggers, and innovators who strengthen our country and extend its influence around the world,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cInvestments in international assistance and diplomacy are a key part of that strength\u2014helping Minnesota businesses and farmers reach new markets, create jobs, and compete globally while making our state and nation safer and more prosperous.\u201d", 1, "2026-08-28T17:11:49Z", "2026-08-28T17:13:14Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/08/25/finstad-holds-roundtables-in-nobles-rock-counties-to-discuss-housing-economic-development-rural-water-in-southern-minnesota/", "Finstad Holds Roundtables in Nobles, Rock Counties to Discuss Housing, Economic Development, Rural Water in Southern Minnesota", "2026-08-25", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "NEW ULM, MN \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) visited Nobles and Rock counties for roundtable discussions and Q&A sessions with area leaders about issues impacting communities in southwestern Minnesota.\n\nFirst, Congressman Finstad attended a Rural Housing and Economic Development Roundtable in Worthington with city and county officials and area housing leaders to discuss their efforts to increase access to affordable housing in the area. Afterward, Congressman Finstad joined members of the Lewis and Clark Regional Water System and Rock County Rural Water for a roundtable discussion in Luverne to discuss ongoing expansion projects in the First Congressional District and Congressman Finstad\u2019s work in Congress to support these infrastructure priorities. Congressman Finstad then met with representatives from the Buffalo Ridge Regional Rail Authority, along with Nobles and Rock County officials, to give an update on federal resources available to local railroad operations.\n\n\u201cIt was an honor to be in Nobles and Rock counties to hear directly from area leaders about their efforts to serve the folks in southwestern Minnesota,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cWhether it be discussing the need for more accessible rural housing, strengthening economic development, or upgrading the water systems our neighbors rely on, I\u2019m committed to giving farm country a seat at the table and delivering for rural communities like Worthington and Luverne.\u201d", 1, "2026-08-26T05:33:32Z", "2026-08-26T05:34:56Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/8/fischbach-staff-to-hold-mobile-office-hours-in-sauk-centre-on-september-18", "Fischbach Staff to Hold Mobile Office Hours in Sauk Centre on September 18", "2026-08-24", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Staff from the Office of Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach will be holding mobile office hours in Sauk Centre at the Sauk Centre City Hall (320 Oak St. S) on September 18th, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.\n\nThe congressional staff will be available to answer constituent questions and take feedback on policy issues. The Congresswoman\u2019s office will also be able to assist constituents with issues such as passport processing, veterans\u2019 needs, tax refunds, Social Security benefits, and connect them with federal agencies like FEMA, FSA, and more.\n\nFor any questions regarding the mobile office hours, please call the Congresswoman\u2019s office at (202) 225-2165. For more information on Congresswoman Fischbach and her service on behalf of Western Minnesota, please visit fischbach.house.gov.", 1, "2026-08-25T05:31:37Z", "2026-08-25T05:33:09Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/08/21/finstad-klobuchar-and-smith-request-approval-of-minnesotas-request-for-major-disaster-declaration/", "Finstad, Klobuchar, and Smith Request Approval of Minnesota\u2019s Request for Major Disaster Declaration", "2026-08-21", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) joined Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) in sending a letter to President Trump and his administration, urging their support and approval of the state of Minnesota\u2019s request for a Major Disaster Declaration to assist constituents recovering from severe storms and flash flooding. After significant damage due to natural disasters, this grant approval will allow for federal disaster assistance for recovery efforts.\n\nThe letter reads:\n\n\u201cDear Mr. President:\n\n\u201cWe write to you in strong support of the state of Minnesota\u2019s request for a Major Disaster Declaration for Individual Assistance under the Stafford Act to assist our constituents recovering from severe storms and flash flooding. These natural disasters have caused significant damage, and we ask that you quickly grant approval for federal disaster assistance.\n\n\u201cIn early July, southeastern Minnesota experienced severe weather events that caused flooding across the region. Heavy precipitation qualified as a rare \u201cmega-rain\u201d in some areas, with approximately 75 percent of Fillmore County and more than half of Houston County receiving more than 6 inches of rain. The severe storms and resulting flooding caused significant damage to homes in the affected area. Each home that received major damage had a submerged furnace or boiler, many of which will need repair or replacement ahead of Minnesota\u2019s fall and winter seasons. Some homes have been condemned or determined to be uninhabitable due to structural issues resulting from the disaster.\n\n\u201cJoint federal and state emergency management teams have conducted preliminary damage assessments and have determined that the losses meet the threshold for federal assistance under the Stafford Act through a Major Disaster Declaration. Governor Walz has submitted an official request for disaster assistance for the period of July 2 to July 8, 2026. The request, dated August 21, 2026, covers Fillmore, Houston, and Mower Counties.\n\n\u201cTime and time again, Minnesotans have stepped up to support their neighbors after natural disasters. When flood waters rise and homes are damaged, volunteers and neighbors are quick to fill sandbags, clean up debris, and lend a hand to those in need. Impacted communities will repair the damage and rebuild following these disasters, but rapid federal assistance will speed up this recovery effort.", 1, "2026-08-22T05:24:59Z", "2026-08-22T05:26:16Z"], ["https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-statement-walz-executive-order-block-mining-northeast-minnesota", "Stauber Statement on Walz Executive Order to Block Mining in Northeast Minnesota", "2026-08-18", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Pete Stauber", "S001212", "stauber.house.gov", "stauber", "https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) made the following statement after Governor Tim Walz issued a harmful blow to critical mineral mining in Northeast Minnesota.\n\n\u201cIn the twilight of his failed Administration, it is disappointing, yet unsurprising to learn that Governor Walz has launched a spiteful and harmful attack against the hardworking people of the Iron Range. His radical, job killing executive order puts thousands of family-supporting union jobs at risk and ignores the will of those who actually live and work in Northern Minnesota. In addition, it jeopardizes the crucial school funding that benefits every district across the state. Next time a Democrat politician claims to support permitting reform, remember what they really mean: eliminating the process altogether, just as Governor Walz has now done. Years of rigorous review, environmental study, and massive private investment have been erased in seconds by a deeply unpopular Governor, who has once again shown that he places far-left ideology above Minnesotans\u2019 jobs and economic future.", 1, "2026-08-19T05:29:02Z", "2026-08-19T05:30:24Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/08/14/reps-finstad-fischbach-house-ag-committee-chairman-thompson-hold-roundtable-discussions-in-mankato/", "Reps. Finstad, Fischbach, House Ag Committee Chairman Thompson Hold Roundtable Discussions in Mankato", "2026-08-14", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "NEW ULM, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), and House Committee on Agriculture Chairman Glenn \u201cGT\u201d Thompson (PA-15) held roundtable discussions with southern Minnesota business and financial leaders in Mankato. First, Congressman Finstad, Chairman Thompson, and Congresswoman Fischbach joined Compeer Financial and local officials to discuss community facilities funded in partnership with local lenders and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development.\n\nAfterwards, they joined members of Greater Mankato Growth for a discussion on how the Working Families Tax Cuts are benefiting small, locally owned businesses and the farm economy throughout the Mankato area.\n\n\u201cConversations like the ones we had today are what make legislation like the Farm Bill and the Working Families Tax Cuts successful,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cHearing directly from those on the ground allows my colleagues and I to truly understand what farm country and rural communities need to thrive. I appreciate everyone who attended today\u2019s roundtables to give thoughtful insights into how we can support the places we\u2019re proud to call home.\u201d\n\nFinstad continued, \u201cI was proud to join Congresswoman Fischbach in leading and securing inclusion of the Investing in Rural America Act in the House Farm Bill, allowing Farm Credit institutions, like Compeer, to finance essential rural facilities in partnership with local lenders through the USDA Community Facilities Loan and Grant Program. I appreciate Congresswoman Fischbach and Chairman Thompson\u2019s critical work on the Farm Bill and the time they took to hear firsthand how our work in Congress is helping southern Minnesotans in the First District today.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is always an honor to join the Minnesota producers and agribusinesses that keep our rural economies strong. With the steadfast support of Congressman Finstad, Congress made great strides last year for American agriculture through the Working Families Tax Cuts. I look forward to working alongside him as we get the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 across the finish line this year,\u201d said Chairman Thompson.", 1, "2026-08-14T06:13:05Z", "2026-08-14T06:14:08Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/08/14/finstad-joins-house-ag-committee-chairman-thompson-at-agribusiness-luncheon/", "Finstad Joins House Ag Committee Chairman Thompson at Agribusiness Luncheon", "2026-08-14", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "ROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) joined House Committee on Agriculture Chairman Glenn \u201cGT\u201d Thompson (PA-15), local farmers, and stakeholders from southern Minnesota\u2019s agriculture community at the Steele County Agribusiness Luncheon hosted by Linder Farm Network in Owatonna. The event included remarks from Linder Farm Network, Congressman Finstad, and Chairman Thompson, as well as important discussions on the current state of America\u2019s agriculture policy and economy.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s an honor to represent my fellow farmers in Congress and ensure we are delivering for the men and women who feed and fuel the world,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cToday\u2019s luncheon gave us the opportunity to discuss how we can continue defending and supporting our producers. In the House, Chairman Thompson, my fellow members of the House Ag Committee, and I have kept our promise to pass year-round, nationwide E15 and pass a strong, bipartisan Farm Bill written by, and for, rural America, and we\u2019ll continue fighting for the hardworking folks in farm country. I want to say a special thank you to Chairman Thompson for making the trip to southern Minnesota and to those who joined us for this important conversation.\u201d", 1, "2026-08-15T05:23:20Z", "2026-08-15T05:24:50Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/8/rep-fischbach-introduces-the-hardworking-seniors-act", "Rep. Fischbach Introduces the Hardworking Seniors Act", "2026-08-14", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC - This week, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) introduced the Hardworking Seniors Act to allow our seniors to continue contributing to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) while covered under Medicare Part A.\n\n\"Hardworking seniors are currently barred from contributing to tax-advantaged Health Savings Accounts just because they are receiving Medicare,\" said Rep. Fischbach. \"I am excited to introduce the Hardworking Seniors Act to help America's working seniors continue to make these contributions and receive the tax benefits that go with them.\"\n\nThe Hardworking Seniors Act received support from several outside organizations:\n\nA letter of support from the Employers Council on Flexible Compensation (ECFC) stated, \"Allowing HSA contributions for working seniors would give them a flexible, tax advantaged tool to prepare for these costs, strengthening the financial security and reducing the long term burden on those with fixed incomes. ECFC supports your introduction of legislation to allow working senior to continue to have access to HSAs.\"\n\n\"Thank you very much for introducing the important, hardworking seniors legislation to allow working seniors of large employers with qualifying High Deductible Health Plans to contribute to a Health Savings Account while on their employer's health plan,\" said Daniel Perrin, Founder of HSA Coalition. \"This is a key step forward to allowing those on public health plans to be eligible for a Health Savings Account.\"", 1, "2026-08-18T05:27:41Z", "2026-08-18T05:29:06Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/08/07/finstad-sends-letter-to-mn-secretary-of-state-steve-simon-regarding-election-integrity/", "Finstad Sends Letter to MN Secretary of State Steve Simon Regarding Election Integrity", "2026-08-07", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) sent a letter to Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon regarding the integrity of Minnesota\u2019s election system and concerns about the potential for individuals who are not legally eligible to vote, including those unlawfully present in the United States, to register to vote or cast ballots in Minnesota elections. The letter highlights vulnerabilities within Minnesota\u2019s \u201cDriver\u2019s License for All\u201d law and Secretary Simon\u2019s refusal to turn over voter rolls to the Department of Justice.\n\n\u201cElection security is national security, and Minnesotans deserve to know that every reasonable measure possible is taken to protect the rights of eligible voters,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cI sent a letter to Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon expressing my concerns about our state\u2019s election system and requested more information on what Secretary Simon and his office are doing to ensure secure, transparent, and trusted elections in Minnesota.\u201d\n\nBackground:", 1, "2026-08-08T05:41:38Z", "2026-08-08T05:43:24Z"], ["https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-celebrates-funding-for-minnesota-law-enforcement-after-advocating-for-program", "Emmer Celebrates Funding for Minnesota Law Enforcement after Advocating for Program", "2026-08-06", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Tom Emmer", "E000294", "emmer.house.gov", "emmer", "https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released a statement after funding was awarded to the Wright and Stearns County Sheriff\u2019s Offices through the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program. Emmer supported funding for this program through the appropriations process. This program allows offices to tailor the funding to best fit their public safety needs.\n\n\u201cMinnesota is home to the best peace officers in the nation and supporting them will always be one of my top priorities. I am thrilled to see the Stearns and Wright County Sheriff's Offices receive these grants, which will help keep Minnesota\u2019s Sixth Congressional District safe,\u201d said Congressman Emmer. \u201cLaw enforcement is overworked and underfunded because of the Walz administration\u2019s soft-on-crime agenda, but thanks to this much-needed funding, the men and women who put their lives on the line to keep us safe will have the resources they desperately need.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis grant is going to help us update some of our technology needs that are long overdue! Thank you very much to Congressman Emmer for his efforts in securing this grant to help keep Wright County safe and secure for our residents and visitors,\u201d said Wright County Sheriff Sean Deringer.\n\n\u201cIn the past, this grant funding has allowed us to acquire items such as ballistic shields for officer safety and a speed limit warning trailer for community safety. The 2025 grant will be used to purchase online citizen police reporting software, leveraging technology and making it easier for citizens to report crimes,\u201d said Stearns County Sheriff Steve Soyka.\n\nBackground\n\nWhen it comes to supporting law enforcement and ensuring that officers have the resources they need, Congressman Emmer has a proven record of success. He has been a long time supporter of the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program. The program was created in memory of New York City Police Officer Edward Byrne, who was shot and killed by a gang member when he was only 22 years old while sitting in his patrol car. The Byrne JAG Program provides funding for law enforcement for the tools and resources to protect their communities and address public safety needs.\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-07T06:11:19Z", "2026-08-07T06:12:42Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/08/03/finstad-sends-letter-to-governor-walz-expressing-concerns-about-minnesotas-educational-performance/", "Finstad Sends Letter to Governor Walz Expressing Concerns About Minnesota\u2019s Educational Performance", "2026-08-03", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "ROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) attended and delivered remarks at the Flint Hill Resources...\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), member of the House Armed Services Committee, released a...\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) released a statement following today\u2019s passage of H.R. 9770,...\n\nNEW ULM, MN \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) hosted a roundtable discussion in Mankato with Secretary of the U.S....\n\nNEW ULM, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) announced that he has nominated four southern Minnesota...\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) introduced the...\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), member of the House Committee on Small Business,...\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) sent a letter to the Minnesota Department of Education...\n\nROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) was joined by Acting Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling in...\n\nROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) hosted a roundtable discussion with U.S. Attorney for the...\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) sent a letter to United States Postal Service (USPS) Postmaster...", 1, "2026-08-04T07:35:49Z", "2026-08-04T07:37:27Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/7/rep-fischbach-mn-gop-delegation-praise-trump-admin-for-the-deportation-of-walz-pardoned-child-rapist", "Rep. Fischbach, MN GOP Delegation Praise Trump Admin for the Deportation of Walz-Pardoned Child Rapist", "2026-07-30", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 This week, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) joined Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08), Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), and Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06) in sending a letter to President Donald Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, thanking them for taking action to deport convicted child rapist Tou Lue Vang from the United States.\n\nTou Lue Vang entered this country illegally and was convicted of repeatedly raping a 10-year-old girl in Minnesota in 2006. Despite his illegal status and the depravity of his crimes, Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison supported issuing a pardon for Vang this past June in an attempt to shield him from deportation.\n\nTheir letter reads (in part):\n\n\"Despite your mandate to remove the worst-of-the-worst from our nation, Tim Walz and his cronies have attempted to defy federal law and executive authority during both Operation Metro Surge and in the case involving Tou Lue Vang. Thus, their actions have continually placed our constituents in danger by endeavoring to allow criminals and gang members to walk freely amongst law-abiding Americans. Given Tim Walz and Keith Ellison's inexplicable despise for law and order, your campaign to rid illegal aliens from America has been desperately needed in our state.\n\n\"The contrast between this administration and the extreme, pro-criminal Walz Administration could not be clearer; you find, arrest, and deport child abusers. Tim Walz and Keith Ellison try, and fail, to stop you. As fathers, mothers, and elected representatives of Minnesota, we are grateful for your continued leadership and commitment to making our communities safe.\"", 1, "2026-08-18T05:27:41Z", "2026-08-18T05:29:06Z"], ["https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-minnesota-republican-delegation-applaud-president-trump-secretary-rubio-and-secretary-mullin-for-deporting-a-convicted-child-rapist-following-walz-s-pardon", "Emmer, Minnesota Republican Delegation Applaud President Trump, Secretary Rubio, and Secretary Mullin for Deporting a Convicted Child Rapist Following Walz\u2019s Pardon", "2026-07-29", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Tom Emmer", "E000294", "emmer.house.gov", "emmer", "https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06), Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), and Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) joined Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) in sending a letter to President Donald J. Trump, Secretary Rubio, and Secretary Mullin, thanking them for their decisive leadership and commitment to making America a safer place by deporting a convicted child rapist, previously pardoned by the Walz administration.\n\nIn June, Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison pardoned Tou Lue Vang, an illegal alien who was convicted of repeatedly sexually abusing a 10-year-old girl in Minnesota in 2006. Thanks to the Trump administration, he has finally been deported, despite Governor Walz\u2019s efforts to pardon him and avoid his deportation.\n\n\u201cNot only did Tim Walz pardon an illegal alien convicted of repeatedly raping a 10-year-old-girl, but he continues to defend the decision. This monster had no business being back on our streets,\u201d said Congressman Tom Emmer. \u201cThank God for President Trump and his administration's swift and decisive action to deport this child rapist and correct Walz\u2019s misguided and dangerous choice to free a child predator.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nTou Lue Vang, an illegal alien from Laos, was first convicted in 2006 of first-degree criminal sexual conduct for repeatedly sexually assaulting a girl between 2002 and 2004, starting when she was ten years old. Vang once offered $10 for the girl\u2019s silence and, when interviewed by police, he attempted to explain his crimes as \u201ca cultural thing\u201d and stated that the victim was just as guilty as he was. In 2006, a Department of Justice Immigration Judge issued a final order of removal for Vang, yet he stayed in the United States.\n\nIn December 2025, Vang was arrested and detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and in February 2026, a District Judge in Minnesota ordered his release by ICE. On June 10, 2026, in order to keep him in the country, the Minnesota Clemency Review Commission, composed of Governor Walz, Attorney General Ellison, and Chief Justice Natalie Hudson, voted to pardon Vang. Following the pardon, Secretary Rubio revoked Vang\u2019s legal status, and he was deported by ICE on July 10, 2026.\n\nAfter outraged reactions from Minnesotans about the pardon of a rapist, Governor Walz doubled down on his decision. When asked about the Trump administration\u2019s deportation of Vang, he stated, \u201cDoes that make us any safer? Did that make the children that are left behind any more stable? Did it improve the idea that we cannot all be judged on our worst days?\u201d\n\nYou can read the letter that was sent in its entirety here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-30T07:32:48Z", "2026-07-30T07:34:08Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/07/24/finstad-celebrates-new-sustainable-aviation-fuel-blending-facility/", "Finstad Celebrates New Sustainable Aviation Fuel Blending Facility", "2026-07-24", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "Finstad Applauds House Passage of FY27 National Defense Authorization Act\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), member of the House Armed Services Committee, released a...\n\nFinstad Votes to Keep Government Funded, Protect Full-Year Appropriations Process with Clean Continuing Resolution\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) released a statement following today\u2019s passage of H.R. 9770,...\n\nFinstad Hosts Roundtable Discussion with VA Secretary, Southern Minnesota Veterans\n\nNEW ULM, MN \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) hosted a roundtable discussion in Mankato with Secretary of the U.S....\n\nReps. Finstad, Schmidt Introduce National Fraud Enforcement Division Act to Strengthen Federal Fraud Prosecution Efforts\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) introduced the...\n\nFinstad Applauds House Passage of His Legislation: the SBA Artificial Intelligence Utilization Act of 2026\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), member of the House Committee on Small Business,...\n\nFinstad Sends Letter to Minnesota Department of Education Calling for Transparency in Rochester Public Schools\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) sent a letter to the Minnesota Department of Education...\n\nFinstad Hosts Acting Secretary of Labor in Rochester\n\nROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) was joined by Acting Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling in...\n\nFinstad Hosts Roundtable with Southern Minnesota Law Enforcement\n\nROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) hosted a roundtable discussion with U.S. Attorney for the...", 1, "2026-07-25T07:13:44Z", "2026-07-25T07:15:09Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/7/rep-fischbach-leads-letter-urging-epa-to-preserve-access-to-critical-crop-protection-tool", "Rep. Fischbach Leads Letter Urging EPA to Preserve Access to Critical Crop-Protection Tool", "2026-07-24", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC - Representative Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) led a coalition of colleagues in sending a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin, urging the agency to correct Biden-Era regulatory overreach and restore access to Chlorpyrifos, a vital insecticide relied upon by American farmers.\n\nIn the letter, lawmakers called on the EPA to restore science-based review processes that recognize Chlorpyrifos as safe for use on crops.\n\n\"America\u2019s farmers produce the safest and most abundant food in the world, but to keep doing that, they need access to safe, proven crop-protection tools,\" said Rep. Fischbach. \"Food security is national security, and taking away tools from our growers threatens their ability to produce crops efficiently. The EPA must correct past regulatory overreach, follow its own scientific risk modeling, and protect the safe crop-management tools our agriculture community relies on.\"\n\nKey Highlights of the Letter:\n\nThe EPA's own scientific record and risk modeling support the safe use of Chlorpyrifos.\n\nMaintaining domestic agricultural output ensures the United States maintains a resilient food supply.\n\nForcing growers toward alternative pest management options imposes significantly higher costs while providing less effective control against destructive pests.\n\nThe letter received strong backing from key national agricultural stakeholder groups, including the American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, American Sugarbeet Growers Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, and U.S. Beet Sugar Association.\n\nThe full text of the letter can be found here.\n\nRep. Fischbach was joined in the letter by US Representatives Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Mark Alford (MO-04), Adrian Smith (NE-03), Brad Finstad (MN-01), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Austin Scott (GA-08), Rick Allen (GA-12), David Taylor (OH-02), Sam Graves (MO-06), Mike Flood (NE-01), Mike Bost (IL-12), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Ann Wagner (MO-02), and Mary Miller (IL-15).", 1, "2026-07-25T07:13:44Z", "2026-07-25T07:15:09Z"], ["https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-minnesota-republican-delegation-urge-us-attorney-rosen-to-stamp-out-somali-gang-violence", "Emmer, Minnesota Republican Delegation Urge U.S. Attorney Rosen to Stamp Out Somali Gang Violence", "2026-07-23", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Tom Emmer", "E000294", "emmer.house.gov", "emmer", "https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) led the Minnesota Republican delegation in sending a letter to U.S. Attorney Daniel Rosen regarding the alarming rise of Somali gang violence in Minnesota. Despite making up roughly 2% of the population in the Minneapolis-St Paul metro, Somalis account for at least 13% of the total gang population in that same area. The delegation is urging U.S. Attorney Rosen to continue his great work keeping Minnesota safe by holding these Somali gang members accountable for their crimes.\n\n\u201cI\u2019ve said it before and I\u2019ll say it again, if you won\u2019t assimilate, then get the hell out of here. First it was an estimated $9 billion in fraud, now it\u2019s out-of-control violence,\u201d said Congressman Tom Emmer. \u201cThese Somali gangs have shot up high school graduations and assaulted players on opposing basketball teams with tire irons. It\u2019s absolute madness, and something must be done.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nFollowing unprecedented violence stemming from Somali gangs over the 4th of July weekend, Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher brought attention to this serious public safety threat. Sheriff Fletcher estimates that there are roughly 1,000 to 2,000 members of other gangs in the metro area, making the 300 members of Somali gangs account for approximately 13% to 23% of the total gang population in the Minneapolis-St Paul metropolitan area. Investigators have linked 14 murders and over 100 shootings to Somali gangs in the last two years.\n\nYou can read the letter sent to U.S. Attorney Rosen in its entirety here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-24T07:30:11Z", "2026-07-24T07:31:13Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/07/22/finstad-votes-to-keep-government-funded-protect-full-year-appropriations-process-with-clean-continuing-resolution/", "Finstad Votes to Keep Government Funded, Protect Full-Year Appropriations Process with Clean Continuing Resolution", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) released a statement following today\u2019s passage of H.R. 9770, Continuing Appropriations Act, 2027, legislation that extends government funding at current levels with a continuing resolution (CR) through December 4, 2026:\n\n\u201cThe House Committee on Appropriations has successfully advanced all twelve funding bills out of committee, working hard to responsibly fund the government and restore long overdue regular order to our appropriations process. I was proud to vote yes on this clean CR, which prevents another government shutdown like the record-long funding halt that we experienced last year due to the Democrats\u2019 political games. By continuing federal funding through December 4th, this legislation prevents another costly shutdown, ensures constituents can continue to rely on essential government services, and gives Congress time to finalize full-year appropriations bills.\u201d", 1, "2026-07-22T07:34:13Z", "2026-07-22T07:35:16Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/07/22/finstad-applauds-house-passage-of-fy27-national-defense-authorization-act/", "Finstad Applauds House Passage of FY27 National Defense Authorization Act", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "Finstad Votes to Keep Government Funded, Protect Full-Year Appropriations Process with Clean Continuing Resolution\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) released a statement following today\u2019s passage of H.R. 9770,...\n\nFinstad Hosts Roundtable Discussion with VA Secretary, Southern Minnesota Veterans\n\nNEW ULM, MN \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) hosted a roundtable discussion in Mankato with Secretary of the U.S....\n\nReps. Finstad, Schmidt Introduce National Fraud Enforcement Division Act to Strengthen Federal Fraud Prosecution Efforts\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) introduced the...\n\nFinstad Applauds House Passage of His Legislation: the SBA Artificial Intelligence Utilization Act of 2026\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), member of the House Committee on Small Business,...\n\nFinstad Sends Letter to Minnesota Department of Education Calling for Transparency in Rochester Public Schools\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) sent a letter to the Minnesota Department of Education...\n\nFinstad Hosts Acting Secretary of Labor in Rochester\n\nROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) was joined by Acting Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling in...\n\nFinstad Hosts Roundtable with Southern Minnesota Law Enforcement\n\nROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) hosted a roundtable discussion with U.S. Attorney for the...\n\nFinstad Calls on USPS to Reconsider the Termination of Postal Contract for Hunt Silver Lake Postal Station in Rochester\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) sent a letter to United States Postal Service (USPS) Postmaster...\n\nFinstad Leads Minnesota Congressional Republicans in Letter Urging Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison to Resign After House Oversight Fraud Report\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) led Minnesota Congressional Republicans in sending a...\n\nFinstad Applauds Committee Passage of FY27 National Defense Authorization Act\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), member of the House Armed Services Committee, released a...", 1, "2026-07-23T07:31:02Z", "2026-07-23T07:32:26Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/7/rep-fischbach-bicameral-coalition-demand-doj-investigation-into-deaths-of-late-term-preborn-babies-at-d-c-abortion-clinic", "Rep. Fischbach, Bicameral Coalition Demand DOJ Investigation into Deaths of Late-Term Preborn Babies at D.C. Abortion Clinic", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC - Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), along with Senator Mike Lee (R-UT), Representative Chris Smith (R-NJ), and over 50 Republican colleagues, sent a bicameral letter to Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche and US Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro urging the US Department of Justice (DOJ) to thoroughly investigate the deaths of five late-term, preborn babies at a Washington, DC abortion clinic.\n\nThe lawmakers are calling on the DOJ to determine whether these deaths were the result of federal crimes, including infanticide or violations of the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act.\n\n\u201cThe Biden DOJ turned a blind eye to these atrocious acts and refused to uphold the law. These five babies were robbed of their lives, and those responsible must be held accountable,\" said Rep. Fischbach. \"We are calling on President Trump\u2019s DOJ to treat these horrific deaths with the seriousness they deserve, perform complete autopsies, and deliver long-overdue justice for these children.\u201d\n\nIn their letter, the coalition of lawmakers requests that the DOJ:\n\nPromptly complete a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding each child's death.\n\nPerform full autopsies and preserve all collected forensic evidence.\n\nEnsure proper, respectful burials for the infants once the investigation is concluded.\n\nBackground\n\nIn March 2022, the bodies of five late-term babies were recovered by the Metropolitan Police Department after being aborted at the Washington Surgi-Clinic, operated by late-term abortionist Dr. Cesare Santangelo. Medical experts who reviewed photographs of the deceased children found that four were viable premature infants, and at least one child bore severe injuries consistent with an illegal partial-birth abortion.\n\nIf performed while the child was alive, such procedures directly violate the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 2003, which criminalizes the partial delivery of a living child to intentionally take their life.\n\nDespite repeated congressional inquiries, including a previous April 2022 bicameral letter, the Biden Administration's DOJ failed to conduct a comprehensive investigation and reportedly advised the Chief Medical Examiner to discard the infants' remains.", 1, "2026-08-18T05:27:41Z", "2026-08-18T05:29:06Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/7/over-100-organizations-voice-support-for-rep-fischbach-s-biobased-materials-investment-production-act", "Over 100 Organizations Voice Support for Rep. Fischbach's Biobased Materials Investment & Production Act", "2026-07-15", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) announced that 105 organizations from across the agricultural, manufacturing, and scientific sectors have signed a joint letter of support for HR 8137, the Biobased Materials Investment and Production Act.\n\nIn the letter, the coalition emphasizes that the legislation offers a practical, bipartisan approach to expanding the American bioeconomy and enhancing national security.\n\n\"The support from over 100 organizations shows just how vital this legislation is for our agriculture and manufacturing sectors,\" said Rep. Fischbach. \"By utilizing American-grown crops to manufacture everyday products, this bill will drive investment to our rural communities and open new markets for our farmers.\"\n\nBackground:\n\nHR 8137 was introduced earlier this year in a bipartisan effort, with Democratic Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), to provide tax incentives for the production of biobased chemicals and materials. The legislation allows taxpayers to select the incentive structure that best aligns with their business model:\n\nProduction Support: A tax credit of $0.10 per pound for renewable materials produced and sold, up to $10 million a year, or\n\nInvestment Support: A 30% investment tax credit to help offset the capital costs of constructing or retrofitting manufacturing plants.\n\nAs highlighted in the letter, a strengthened US bioeconomy will create new economic opportunities for rural communities, increase market opportunities for farmers, and expand choices for consumers. Additionally, by reducing reliance on foreign supply chains, H.R. 8137 will directly strengthen national security while enhancing American competitiveness on the global stage.", 1, "2026-08-18T05:27:41Z", "2026-08-18T05:29:06Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/7/rep-fischbach-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-def-act-to-protect-farmers-truckers-and-operators", "Rep. Fischbach, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan DEF Act to Protect Farmers, Truckers, and Operators", "2026-07-14", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Representatives Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), Julie Fedorchak (ND-AL), Don Davis (NC-01), Jack Bergman (MI-01), and Brad Finstad (MN-01) have introduced the Diesel Engine Flexibility (DEF) Act. This legislation provides 10 years of legal protection for companies that follow the EPA's 2025 and 2026 guidelines, reducing unnecessary engine shutdowns caused by faulty DEF sensors while maintaining emissions protections.\n\n\"Hardworking Minnesotans should not be penalized by bureaucracy when a sensor malfunctions. The DEF Act provides a vital, 10-year legal shield that protects our agricultural and trucking industries from unnecessary shutdowns, keeping supply chains moving while maintaining existing emissions standards,\" said Rep. Fischbach. \"This is a common-sense solution for rural America.\"\n\n\"Farmers, truckers, and equipment operators depend on reliable equipment to keep our economy moving. They shouldn't be sidelined by faulty sensors or unnecessary shutdowns that have nothing to do with actual emissions,\" Fedorchak said. \"The DEF Act brings commonsense certainty by preserving the EPA's updated guidance in law while creating a stable regulatory framework for the next decade. It gives manufacturers, operators, and independent technicians the certainty they need to invest, innovate, and keep equipment running without sacrificing emissions performance.\"\n\n\u201cWhen a tractor or truck sits idle, farmers, truckers, manufacturers, and small businesses feel the pain. They rely on reliable diesel-powered equipment every day. The Diesel Engine Flexibility Act would reduce unnecessary downtime caused by faulty emissions sensors while keeping every existing emissions standard in place, said Davis. \u201cIt's a practical solution that supports jobs, strengthens our rural economy, and helps keep America fed and our communities growing.\u201d\n\n\u201cDue to previous EPA guidelines, our nation\u2019s farmers were required to rely on faulty DEF sensors and mandates. As a fourth-generation farmer, I am proud to join Congresswoman Fedorchak in introducing the DEF Act, which will codify the recently improved EPA guidance for diesel engines and vehicles, providing increased flexibility and clarity for folks in farm country \u2013 no matter the administration,\u201d said Finstad.\n\nFaulty DEF sensors and rigid EPA engine shutdown requirements are costing farmers, truckers, and operators time and money, often through no fault of their own. The DEF Act addresses this by strengthening monitoring capabilities, limiting engine shutdowns and performance reductions, and providing independent technicians with legal clarity to service their customers\u2019 equipment. Specifically, the legislation:\n\nCreates a 10-year statutory safe harbor for EPA diesel emissions guidance issued in 2025 and 2026.\n\nAllows EPA to continue approving software updates, diagnostic improvements, recalls, and other administrative actions consistent with the guidance.\n\nRequires future emissions standards to include meaningful lead times, including at least three model years of applicability and five years before taking effect.\n\nDirects EPA to consider reducing unnecessary shutdowns, derates, and operational disruptions when developing future emissions regulations.\n\nWithout congressional action, these improvements remain subject to future administrative changes. The DEF Act provides long-term certainty for equipment owners, manufacturers, and technicians.", 1, "2026-07-15T07:12:08Z", "2026-07-15T07:13:45Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/07/13/finstad-hosts-roundtable-discussion-with-va-secretary-southern-minnesota-veterans/", "Finstad Hosts Roundtable Discussion with VA Secretary, Southern Minnesota Veterans", "2026-07-13", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "NEW ULM, MN \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) hosted a roundtable discussion in Mankato with Secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins and southern Minnesota veterans. Congressman Finstad and Secretary Collins heard directly from southern Minnesota\u2019s veteran community, discussing how Congress can increase access to VA healthcare and enhance benefits. While in Mankato, Congressman Finstad and Secretary Collins also toured the Lyle C. Pearson Community-Based Outpatient VA Clinic and met with representatives of the Bravo Zulu House.\n\n\u201cService members put their lives on the line in defense of our freedom,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cI appreciated the opportunity to hear from some of southern Minnesota\u2019s veterans directly about how I can support them in Congress, especially when it comes to improving VA benefits and services systemwide. Thank you, Secretary Collins, for joining us in the First District to learn more about the resources we have to offer for our veteran communities and discuss how we can continue to serve those who have served our country.\u201d", 1, "2026-07-14T07:08:55Z", "2026-07-14T07:10:52Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/7/rep-fischbach-co-leads-fraud-act-to-crack-down-on-state-leaders-who-fail-to-report-taxpayer-theft", "Rep. Fischbach Co-Leads FRAUD Act to Crack Down on State Leaders Who Fail to Report Taxpayer Theft", "2026-07-08", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) joined the Minnesota Congressional Republican Delegation in introducing the Federal Responsibility and Accountability for Unchecked Dereliction (FRAUD) Act to strengthen accountability when state officials become aware of fraud involving federal funds. This legislation follows a House Oversight Committee report that found that high-level Minnesota state officials, including Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison, had known about the fraud in Minnesota since 2019 and repeatedly failed to act.\n\n\"The scale of fraud we saw in Minnesota is flat-out unacceptable, and it\u2019s infuriating that Governor Walz and other state leaders looked the other way while billions were stolen,\" said Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach. \"They need to be held accountable. We need the FRAUD Act in place so the next Minnesota governor, or any future leader, will never be allowed to let something like this happen again. Taxpayers deserve to know their hard-earned money is actually being protected.\"\n\nHere's what the rest of the delegation had to say about this legislation:\n\n\u201cBillions of taxpayer dollars were stolen in Minnesota because state leaders like Tim Walz looked the other way and even threatened to retaliate against state whistleblowers who tried to sound the alarm,\" said Congressman Pete Stauber. \"To this day, none of these so-called leaders have been held accountable for this stunning failure of public trust. My FRAUD Act will change that by ensuring any official who knowingly fails to report fraud faces criminal prosecution and is never able to oversee the distribution of federal funds ever again. Turning a blind eye to fraud is just as bad as committing it, and it\u2019s time the consequences reflect that.\u201d\n\n\u201cFraud is wrong, plain and simple. Unfortunately, we have state leaders who ignored and enabled the problem, resulting in billions of dollars in fraud,\" said Congressman Tom Emmer. \u201cThe House Oversight Committee confirmed what we all knew: Governor Walz and other state officials were aware of the fraud and yet did nothing. The FRAUD Act will ensure accountability and protect taxpayer funds.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn Minnesota, and across the country, a state\u2019s highest elected officials \u2013 those responsible for safeguarding taxpayer dollars \u2013 have an obligation to take action against fraud when it\u2019s reported,\" said Congressman Brad Finstad. \"I am committed to bringing accountability to Gov. Walz and Attorney General Ellison for ignoring the rampant fraud that\u2019s robbed our fellow Minnesotans of billions of dollars, and am proud to support the FRAUD Act to restore transparency and accountability in federally funded, state administrated programs.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the FRAUD Act will:", 1, "2026-07-14T07:08:55Z", "2026-07-14T07:10:52Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/07/07/finstad-announces-2026-service-academy-nominees/", "Finstad Announces 2026 Service Academy Nominees", "2026-07-07", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "NEW ULM, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) announced that he has nominated four southern Minnesota students to the nation\u2019s service academies, all of whom have accepted appointments to their respective institutions. Individuals nominated by Rep. Finstad include:\n\nBrady Arneson, Minnesota Connections Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy\n\nAidan Moeller, Lake Crystal Wellcome Memorial Secondary School, U.S. Air Force Academy\n\nEvan Jenkins, Rochester Century High School, U.S. Air Force Academy\n\nDayton Clobes, Mankato East High School, U.S. Military Academy\n\n\u201cIt is a privilege to nominate this group of outstanding students from Minnesota\u2019s First District to attend our great service academies,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cWe live in the greatest country in the world because of young leaders like these who are willing to put service before self to support and defend our freedom. I know Brady, Aidan, Evan, and Dayton will represent southern Minnesota with pride and will go on to serve our nation well.\u201d\n\nStudents accepted into U.S. service academies will earn a four-year university education with the commitment of serving in the military for a minimum of five years upon graduation. Congressman Finstad recently met with three of the 2026 nominees and their families to congratulate them on their achievements.", 1, "2026-07-08T07:27:19Z", "2026-07-08T07:28:28Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/7/rep-fischbach-introduces-the-securing-agriculture-s-workforce-act-to-deliver-long-overdue-relief-to-western-minnesota-farmers", "Rep. Fischbach Introduces the Securing Agriculture\u2019s Workforce Act to Deliver Long-Overdue Relief to Western Minnesota Farmers", "2026-07-07", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC - Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) joined House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn \"GT\" Thompson last week as an original cosponsor of the Securing Agriculture\u2019s Workforce Act. This legislation modernizes the H-2A agricultural worker program, delivering labor flexibility and financial predictability to agricultural producers.\n\n\"Our hard-working farmers should not have to fight through mountains of federal red tape just to feed and fuel our country,\" said Rep. Fischbach. \"Rigid and outdated H-2A program requirements have ignored the realities of modern farming, leaving our local ag economy without a strong workforce. This producer-backed bill answers the calls of our farmers by cutting compliance costs and establishing a stable, predictable framework so our agricultural community can thrive.\"\n\n\u201cThere is no greater national security threat than disruptions to our food supply,\u201d Rep. Thompson said. \u201cThe Securing Agriculture\u2019s Workforce Act of 2026 makes the practical, commonsense reforms required to prevent these disruptions by providing a workforce that meets agriculture\u2019s needs\u2014now and in the future.\u201d\n\nThe Securing Agriculture\u2019s Workforce Act includes several reforms specifically designed to alleviate the agriculture workforce constraints by:", 1, "2026-07-08T07:27:19Z", "2026-07-08T07:28:28Z"], ["https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-minnesota-republican-delegation-introduce-legislation-to-prevent-fraud", "Emmer, Minnesota Republican Delegation Introduce Legislation to Prevent Fraud", "2026-07-02", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Tom Emmer", "E000294", "emmer.house.gov", "emmer", "https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06), Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), and Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) joined Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) in introducing the Federal Responsibility and Accountability for Unchecked Dereliction (FRAUD) Act.\n\nThe FRAUD Act will ensure that Governors and other state officials take action to stop fraud in their states by requiring them to report credible suspicions of fraud involving federal funds to the Federal Bureau of Investigation within 180 days.\n\n\u201cFraud is wrong, plain and simple. Unfortunately, we have state leaders who ignored and enabled the problem, resulting in billions of dollars in fraud,\" said Congressman Emmer. \u201cThe House Oversight Committee confirmed what we all knew: Governor Walz and other state officials were aware of the fraud and yet did nothing. The FRAUD Act will ensure accountability and protect taxpayer funds.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nOn June 8, 2026, the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform released the findings of their investigation into the fraud crisis in Minnesota. Their investigation determined that both Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison were aware of the fraud and did nothing to prevent it.\n\nIn response to their findings, Congressman Emmer and the Minnesota Republican Delegation sent a letter on June 10, 2026 to Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison demanding their resignation for their complete failure to address fraud within the state\u2019s federally funded programs. The delegation has not received a response.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-03T08:00:00Z", "2026-07-03T08:01:30Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/07/02/reps-finstad-schmidt-introduce-national-fraud-enforcement-division-act-to-strengthen-federal-fraud-prosecution-efforts/", "Reps. Finstad, Schmidt Introduce National Fraud Enforcement Division Act to Strengthen Federal Fraud Prosecution Efforts", "2026-07-02", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) introduced the National Fraud Enforcement Division Act of 2026, which would make permanent the newly established National Fraud Enforcement Division within the Department of Justice (DOJ). The legislation would establish an Assistant Attorney General, appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, to lead DOJ efforts to investigate, prosecute, and prevent fraud within federally funded programs.\n\nSpecifically, the National Fraud Enforcement Division Act:\n\nRequires the division to provide guidance and support to U.S. Attorney Offices on fraud-related matters;\n\nAuthorizes the division to develop national fraud enforcement priorities;\n\nRequires the division to recommend legislative and regulatory reforms to address vulnerabilities that enable fraud and abuse, and;\n\nDirects the division to advise the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General on major fraud investigations, prosecutions, and related policy issues.", 1, "2026-07-03T08:00:00Z", "2026-07-03T08:01:30Z"], ["https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-introduces-fraud-act-crack-down-state-leaders-who-fail-report-taxpayer", "Stauber Introduces FRAUD Act to Crack Down on State Leaders Who Fail to Report Taxpayer Theft", "2026-07-02", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Pete Stauber", "S001212", "stauber.house.gov", "stauber", "https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 This week, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) introduced the Federal Responsibility and Accountability for Unchecked Dereliction (FRAUD) Act to strengthen accountability when state officials become aware of significant fraud involving federal funds. This legislation comes on the heels of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform\u2019s bombshell report finding that high-level Minnesota state officials \u2013 including Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison \u2013 knew of widespread fraud in Minnesota since 2019 and repeatedly failed to act.\n\n\u201cBillions of taxpayer dollars were stolen in Minnesota because state leaders like Tim Walz looked the other way and even threatened to retaliate against state whistleblowers who tried to sound the alarm,\" said Congressman Pete Stauber. \"To this day, none of these so-called leaders have been held accountable for this stunning failure of public trust. My FRAUD Act will change that by ensuring any official who knowingly fails to report fraud faces criminal prosecution and is never able to oversee the distribution of federal funds ever again. Turning a blind eye to fraud is just as bad as committing it, and it\u2019s time the consequences reflect that.\u201d\n\nCongressman Stauber was joined by his Minnesota Republican delegation colleagues in introducing this legislation.\n\n\u201cFraud is wrong, plain and simple. Unfortunately, we have state leaders who ignored and enabled the problem, resulting in billions of dollars in fraud,\" said Congressman Tom Emmer. \u201cThe House Oversight Committee confirmed what we all knew: Governor Walz and other state officials were aware of the fraud and yet did nothing. The FRAUD Act will ensure accountability and protect taxpayer funds.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn Minnesota, and across the country, a state\u2019s highest elected officials \u2013 those responsible for safeguarding taxpayer dollars \u2013 have an obligation to take action against fraud when it\u2019s reported,\" said Congressman Brad Finstad. \"I am committed to bringing accountability to Gov. Walz and Attorney General Ellison for ignoring the rampant fraud that\u2019s robbed our fellow Minnesotans of billions of dollars, and am proud to support the FRAUD Act to restore transparency and accountability in federally funded, state administrated programs.\u201d\n\n\"The scale of fraud we saw in Minnesota is flat-out unacceptable, and it\u2019s infuriating that Governor Walz and other state leaders looked the other way while billions were stolen,\" said Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach. \"They need to be held accountable. We need the FRAUD Act in place so the next Minnesota governor, or any future leader, will never be allowed to let something like this happen again. Taxpayers deserve to know their hard-earned money is actually being protected.\"\n\nSpecifically, the FRAUD Act will do the following:\n\nRequire a Governor, state agency head, or State Inspector General who receives a credible fraud warning involving federal funds to report it to the FBI within 180 days.\n\nRequire states to annually certify compliance with these reporting requirements in order to remain eligible for certain federal funding.\n\nImpose criminal penalties on covered officials who knowingly fail to report fraud or obstruct federal, state, or inspector general investigations.\n\nAllow federal agencies to prohibit or debar convicted officials from overseeing the distribution of federal funds.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-03T08:00:00Z", "2026-07-03T08:01:30Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/6/fischbach-staff-to-hold-mobile-office-hours-in-ada-on-july-17", "Fischbach Staff to Hold Mobile Office Hours in Ada on July 17", "2026-06-30", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Staff from the Office of Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach will be holding mobile office hours in Ada at the Ada Event Center (415 W Main St.) on July 17th, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.\n\nThe congressional staff will be available to answer constituent questions and take feedback on policy issues. The Congresswoman\u2019s office will also be able to assist constituents with issues such as passport processing, veterans\u2019 needs, tax refunds, Social Security benefits, and connect them with federal agencies like FEMA, FSA, and more.\n\nFor any questions regarding the mobile office hours, please call the Congresswoman\u2019s office at (202) 225-2165. For more information on Congresswoman Fischbach and her service on behalf of Western Minnesota, please visit fischbach.house.gov.", 1, "2026-08-25T05:31:37Z", "2026-08-25T05:33:09Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/6/minnesota-congressional-delegation-contributes-images-of-minnesota-in-2026-for-congressional-time-capsule-in-celebration-of-america-s-250th-anniversary", "Minnesota Congressional Delegation Contributes Images of Minnesota in 2026 for Congressional Time Capsule in Celebration of America\u2019s 250th Anniversary", "2026-06-25", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Time capsule will be opened at America\u2019s 500th Anniversary on July 4, 2276\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 On Wednesday afternoon, the Minnesota Congressional Delegation announced that it is contributing a collection of original images of Minnesota in 2026 for a Congressional Time Capsule in honor of America\u2019s 250th Anniversary. The Minnesota collection includes photographs from across Minnesota\u2019s eight Congressional Districts as well as accompanying letters from the delegation that explain their significance to their districts, state, and nation. The capsule will be dedicated at Emancipation Hall this afternoon and will be sealed in the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center to be opened on America\u2019s 500th Anniversary on July 4, 2276. Click here to view a digital version of the Minnesota Delegation\u2019s submission.\n\n\u201cAs we look back on the first 250 years of American history, I am proud to represent the families of Minnesota's Seventh District. From hardworking crop and livestock producers to biofuel and advanced manufacturers, Western Minnesota is a leader in securing America\u2019s food supply and energy future. While technology and policy will evolve, the character and grit of our rural communities will carry our great nation forward into the next 250 years,\u201d said Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach.\n\n\u201cMinnesota has always been a place worth celebrating, and as our nation marks 250 years of freedom and democracy, there is no better time than now to highlight the places, people, and stories that make our state extraordinary in 2026,\u201d said Congresswoman Betty McCollum, the Dean of the Minnesota Congressional delegation. \u201cThis time capsule is a contribution to future generations. It\u2019s a record of Minnesota\u2019s storied history, rich culture, remarkable diversity, and the natural wonders \u2013 the Mississippi River, Lake Superior, the Minnesota State Fair, and more \u2013 that define us. We are excited to offer future generations a glimpse of what it\u2019s like to live in Minnesota in the year 2026.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe 250th anniversary of the United States is an opportunity to honor the Minnesotans who have contributed to our nation\u2019s history and those who will continue this legacy,\u201d said Senator Amy Klobuchar. \u201cFor our Congressional Delegation time capsule, I included a picture of the Minnesota State Fair, which represents Minnesota at its best: creative, innovative, hardworking, and welcoming \u2014 values that our state will carry forward for the next 250 years.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor the past 250 years, America promoted democracy, liberty and freedom at home and abroad,\u201d said Senator Tina Smith. \u201cWe wouldn\u2019t always get it right the first time, but we never gave up. That\u2019s the true American spirit. We\u2019re still working on creating that more perfect union, and I hope in another 250 years, we will be closer to achieving it. As the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. says, \u2018The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.\u2019\u201d\n\n\u201cOur Sixth Congressional District is full of patriotic Minnesotans who love our state and this country. In the 250th year of our nation, it's an honor to commemorate the great state of Minnesota and the people and places that make it so special,\u201d said Congressman Tom Emmer. \u201cOne of those places is the Delano Area Sports Arena. For my family and countless others, the memories made at that rink will last for generations. It is my hope that 250 years from now, Minnesotans will still be building community and connection over a shared love of hockey.\u201d\n\n\u201cMore than two hundred and forty years ago, the founding fathers identified the bald eagle as a symbol of the strength and independence promised in our new nation,\u201d said Congressman Brad Finstad. \u201cSince then, we have revered this majestic creature as the unquestionable icon of the United States. Southern Minnesota is the proud home of the National Eagle Center, our country\u2019s only educational center dedicated to preserving the bald eagle and its historical and cultural significance. I was honored to introduce the legislation to officially recognize the bald eagle as our national bird and am proud to see its inclusion in our state\u2019s contribution to the Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs we come together to celebrate America\u2019s 250th birthday, I couldn\u2019t be prouder to represent Minnesota, a state whose rich culture, history and natural beauty are integral to the fabric of our great nation,\u201d said Congresswoman Angie Craig. \u201cI hope that this time capsule serves as a snapshot in time for generations of Minnesotans \u2013 a reminder of who we are today and of the traditions and places that will shape our state and our country for centuries to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cMinnesota\u2019s natural beauty and the strength of our vibrant communities make it the best state to live in in the country,\u201d said Congresswoman Kelly Morrison. \u201cI submitted a picture that highlights the Third District\u2019s unique lakes and our beloved state bird, the loon. I\u2019m so proud to call Minnesota home and I know future generations will cherish this state as much as we have.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur office is honored to contribute to this time capsule alongside the Minnesota delegation that future Americans will open 250 years from now,\u201d said Congresswoman Ilhan Omar. \u201cWe chose to include Prince\u2019s iconic Purple Rain album because it embodies the creativity and enduring spirit of Minnesota. From the breathtaking beauty of the Boundary Waters to the global impact of artists like Prince, Minnesota has helped shape the American story in countless ways. We are proud to give future generations a glimpse into the incredible traditions, diversity, and values that define us as Minnesotans in 2026.\u201d\n\n\u201cMinnesota is truly a special place, and as our nation celebrates 250 years of American excellence, I am honored to participate in the Congressional Time Capsule to showcase the many places, people, and traditions that make Minnesota such an exceptional part of this great nation,\u201d said Congressman Pete Stauber. \u201cAs the Representative of Minnesota\u2019s 8th Congressional District, I am especially excited about my contribution to honor the majestic waters of Lake Superior and the vital role this natural resource plays in helping our region thrive. I have much optimism for the future, and I hope those who open this Time Capsule 250 years from now enjoy learning more about Minnesota\u2019s story and the enduring spirit of the North Star State.\u201d\n\nAs part of Congress\u2019s efforts to celebrate America's 250th birthday, the Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule Act (P.L. 119-79) directs the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) to create and prepare a congressional time capsule to be sealed in the Capitol Visitor Center. The capsule is an opportunity for each state and territory delegation to provide a joint submission that provides a snapshot in time in 2026. The capsule will be opened on our nation's 500th anniversary, July 4, 2276.\n\nThe Members of Minnesota\u2019s Delegation to the United States Congress include Senator Amy Klobuchar (DFL), Senator Tina Smith (DFL), Congressman Brad Finstad (R, MN-01), Congresswoman Angie Craig (DFL, MN-02), Congresswoman Kelly Morrison (DFL, MN-03), Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL, MN-04), Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (DFL, MN-05), Congressman Tom Emmer (R, MN-06), Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (R, MN-07), and Congressman Pete Stauber (R, MN-08).", 1, "2026-06-26T06:29:35Z", "2026-06-26T06:31:46Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/6/congressional-pro-life-caucus-co-chairs-on-the-fourth-dobbs-anniversary-we-renew-the-call-to-end-abortion-violence-and-support-women-and-unborn-babies", "Congressional Pro-Life Caucus Co-Chairs: On the fourth Dobbs anniversary, we renew the call to end abortion violence and support women and unborn babies", "2026-06-24", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014 On the fourth anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court\u2019s landmark decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women\u2019s Health Organization, reversing the flawed 1973 Roe v. Wade decision, which legalized abortion on demand, the Co-Chairs of the Congressional Pro-Life Caucus\u2014Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD), Rep. Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Rep. Kat Cammack (R-FL), and Rep. Bob Onder (R-MO)\u2014issued the following statement:\n\nOn the fourth anniversary of Dobbs v. Jackson, we remember all the named and nameless victims of abortion, and we recommit ourselves to the most critical human rights issue of our time: protecting unborn children from the violence of abortion and providing true assistance to their mothers.\n\nThe Dobbs decision\u2014brilliantly authored by Justice Samuel Alito\u2014has empowered lawmakers at both the federal and state levels to pass and push for laws that protect mothers and their unborn babies. At the same time, we will work together to elevate those agencies and non-profit organizations that seek to nurture and protect human life, as well as assist pregnant women and their children.\n\nThat is why we must continue to promote and protect the critical work of the more than 2,700 pregnancy care centers in the United States, which help to meet the complex needs of women and families navigating unexpected pregnancies. Over the past five years, pregnancy care centers have cumulatively saved the lives of more than 828,130 unborn babies.\n\nAnd according to the Charlotte Lozier Institute\u2019s 2025 National Pregnancy Center Report, in 2024 alone, pregnancy care centers offered 3.8 million client sessions, provided $452 million in free goods and services, and earned a client satisfaction rate of 98 percent.\n\nPresident Trump\u2019s recent release of Moms.gov, a new website that connects new and expecting mothers to their nearest pregnancy care centers, is a timely reminder of these organizations\u2019 important work.\n\nThroughout this Congress, we have introduced\u2014and the U.S. House of Representatives has passed\u2014legislation to recognize and safeguard the vital work of pregnancy care centers. In March of 2025, Rep. Smith (NJ) introduced the Let Pregnancy Centers Serve Act of 2025 (HR 2226), legislation to prohibit federal, state and local governments from discriminating against pregnancy care centers because of their life-affirming mission.\n\nIn January, Rep. Fischbach\u2019s Supporting Pregnant and Parenting Women and Families Act (HR 6945), which clarifies that states may direct Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funding to pregnancy care centers, passed the U.S. House of Representatives and now awaits action in the Senate. We also filed an amicus brief in support of pro-life pregnancy centers that had been unjustly targeted by the state of New Jersey, and later welcomed the Supreme Court\u2019s unanimous decision in their favor.\n\nPregnancy care centers provide the life-affirming assistance that women need in the face of the abortion lobby\u2019s aggressive and unrelenting push for abortion in all forms, especially and including the mass proliferation of mifepristone\u2014the baby poison pill.\n\nThis chemical abortion drug, which works by barbarically starving the unborn child to death, is also exceedingly dangerous to women. According to recent reports, 11% of women who take mifepristone experience sepsis, infection, hemorrhaging, or another serious adverse event within 45 days.\n\nWhile the unfeeling abortion industry continues their attempted cover-up of the deleterious and life-threatening complications of chemical abortions, the Pro-Life Caucus will continue to stand up for women and their unborn babies and hold abortionists accountable.", 1, "2026-06-25T06:30:03Z", "2026-06-25T06:31:21Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/6/rep-fischbach-reaffirms-commitment-to-protecting-life-and-supporting-mothers-four-years-after-historic-dobbs-decision", "Rep. Fischbach Reaffirms Commitment to Protecting Life and Supporting Mothers Four Years After Historic Dobbs Decision", "2026-06-24", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC - Today, Representative Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) released the following statement commemorating the fourth anniversary of the landmark Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women\u2019s Health Organization, which overturned Roe v. Wade.\n\nAs an original cosponsor of a newly introduced bicameral resolution marking this milestone, Representative Fischbach issued the following statement:\n\n\"Today, we look back on four years of lives saved and families strengthened. But our work is far from finished. We must continue to champion policies that protect our most vulnerable and ensure every mother and child has the care, compassion, and resources they need to thrive.\"\n\nThe resolution, which Representative Fischbach championed as an original cosponsor, anchors the pro-life movement in the nation's founding principles. The resolution officially establishes several key Congressional positions:\n\nIt notes that the Supreme Court wrongly invented a Constitutional right to abortion in Roe v. Wade and notes the loss of millions of innocent unborn lives to that legal mistake.\n\nIt commemorates the anniversary of the Dobbs ruling and celebrates the lives that have been and will be saved as a direct result of this landmark decision.\n\nIt expresses strong Congressional support for policies that protect unborn life while reinforcing safety nets and support networks for mothers and their children.\n\nRepresentative Fischbach remains dedicated to working alongside her colleagues in Congress to build a culture that values and protects human life at all stages.\n\nWatch Rep. Fischbach's full floor remarks here.", 1, "2026-06-26T06:29:35Z", "2026-06-26T06:31:46Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/06/23/finstad-applauds-house-passage-of-his-legislation-the-sba-artificial-intelligence-utilization-act-of-2026/", "Finstad Applauds House Passage of His Legislation: the SBA Artificial Intelligence Utilization Act of 2026", "2026-06-23", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), member of the House Committee on Small Business, applauded the passage of the SBA Artificial Intelligence Utilization Act by the full House of Representatives. Introduced by Congressman Finstad and Congressman George Latimer (NY-16), this legislation would require the Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator to submit an annual report to Congress on the agency\u2019s use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning.\n\n\u201cThis commonsense legislation brings necessary oversight and accountability to the SBA\u2019s use of AI without compromising transparency or trust. As this rapidly evolving technology becomes an increasingly present part of our lives, we have a responsibility in Congress to ensure our government agencies are using AI responsibly to benefit the people these agencies serve. I\u2019m grateful for my colleagues\u2019 support of this legislation and look forward to its passage in the Senate,\u201d said Rep. Finstad.\n\nCongressman Finstad spoke on the House Floor in support of the bill\u2019s passage. His remarks are here and below, as prepared for delivery:\n\nThank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you, Chairman Williams, for yielding.\n\nI rise today in support of my bill, H.R. 8881, the SBA Artificial Intelligence Utilization Act.\n\nIn a time when artificial intelligence and machine learning continues to become more accessible and revolutionize the way businesses operate, it\u2019s important to ensure our federal agencies adopt AI responsibly, especially in the SBA.\n\nThis legislation requires the Small Business Administration to report its use of AI and machine learning within their operations, while also assessing the advantages and risks.\n\nThis legislation also gives SBA the opportunity to assess the appropriateness, effectiveness, and value of using these technologies.\n\nAI could be a useful tool for the SBA to process information and ease its implementation, but it also raises questions about transparency, oversight, and risks.\n\nThis does not mandate the use of AI or prohibit innovation in our Small Business Administration but instead ensures commonsense congressional oversight into how these tools are being used.\n\nCongress has the responsibility to ensure federal agencies are using this ever-changing technology transparently, responsibly, and effectively, and my bill ensures just that.\n\nI urge a YES vote and I yield back.", 1, "2026-06-24T06:25:30Z", "2026-06-24T06:26:49Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/06/23/finstad-hosts-acting-secretary-of-labor-in-rochester/", "Finstad Hosts Acting Secretary of Labor in Rochester", "2026-06-23", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "ROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) was joined by Acting Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling in Rochester for a roundtable discussion with numerous workforce and labor leaders from across Minnesota\u2019s First District. Hosted by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, the discussion covered both successes and challenges of Minnesota\u2019s industries and economy, while also highlighting the importance of collaboration between labor leaders, employers, policymakers, educators, and community organizations. Congressman Finstad also hosted Acting Secretary Sonderling for visits to the Mayo Clinic, Kerry, and McNeilus Steel.\n\n\u201cAs a Member of Congress, I value important conversations like those that we had yesterday with the men and women on the front lines of our local workforce,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cThis week\u2019s roundtable with Acting Secretary Sonderling gave us the opportunity to hear from business leaders, educators, and healthcare professionals firsthand and discuss how we can continue to work together to meet current and future workforce needs, as well as strengthen our national economy. I appreciate Acting Secretary Sonderling taking the day to see what makes Minnesota\u2019s First District one-of-a-kind.\u201d", 1, "2026-06-24T06:25:30Z", "2026-06-24T06:26:49Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/06/23/finstad-sends-letter-to-minnesota-department-of-education-calling-for-transparency-in-rochester-public-schools/", "Finstad Sends Letter to Minnesota Department of Education Calling for Transparency in Rochester Public Schools", "2026-06-23", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "Finstad Applauds House Passage of His Legislation: the SBA Artificial Intelligence Utilization Act of 2026\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), member of the House Committee on Small Business,...\n\nFinstad Hosts Acting Secretary of Labor in Rochester\n\nROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) was joined by Acting Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling in...\n\nFinstad Hosts Roundtable with Southern Minnesota Law Enforcement\n\nROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) hosted a roundtable discussion with U.S. Attorney for the...\n\nFinstad Calls on USPS to Reconsider the Termination of Postal Contract for Hunt Silver Lake Postal Station in Rochester\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) sent a letter to United States Postal Service (USPS) Postmaster...\n\nFinstad Leads Minnesota Congressional Republicans in Letter Urging Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison to Resign After House Oversight Fraud Report\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) led Minnesota Congressional Republicans in sending a...\n\nFinstad Applauds Committee Passage of FY27 National Defense Authorization Act\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), member of the House Armed Services Committee, released a...\n\nFinstad Announces 2026 Congressional App Challenge\n\nROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) invited middle and high school students from Minnesota\u2019s...\n\nFinstad, Morrison Introduce the Veteran Burial Benefit Correction Act\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Congresswoman Kelly Morrison (MN-03) introduced...\n\nFinstad Introduces Legislation to Designate Austin Post Office as the \u201cJohn Madden Memorial Post Office\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) announced the introduction of legislation designating...\n\nFinstad Introduces Legislation Expressing Support for Efforts to Combat Waste, Fraud, and Abuse in Federal Health Care Programs\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) announced the introduction of a...", 1, "2026-06-24T06:25:30Z", "2026-06-24T06:26:49Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/6/rep-fischbach-met-with-morris-business-leaders-to-discuss-housing-legislation-boosting-the-workforce", "Rep. Fischbach Met with Morris Business Leaders to Discuss Housing Legislation & Boosting the Workforce", "2026-06-19", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Willmar, MN -- Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach met with leaders from local businesses, including Superior Industries, Bonanza Bean, Westmor, and Riverview Dairy, to discuss the challenges caused by limited housing availability and workforce development in Western Minnesota communities.\n\nRep. Fischbach highlighted her recent legislative efforts in DC to help increase rural housing development, including her support for the 21st Century Road to Housing Act and her co-sponsorship of the Neighborhood Homes Investment Act.\n\nBoth initiatives focus on cutting through red tape and streamlining permitting to pave the way for faster homebuilding and increased availability of affordable, single-family homes in rural communities.", 1, "2026-06-25T06:30:03Z", "2026-06-25T06:31:21Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/06/18/finstad-hosts-roundtable-with-southern-minnesota-law-enforcement/", "Finstad Hosts Roundtable with Southern Minnesota Law Enforcement", "2026-06-18", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "ROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) hosted a roundtable discussion with U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota Daniel Rosen and members of the southern Minnesota law enforcement community. In attendance were Sheriffs from multiple counties, as well as Chiefs of Police, Assistant Chiefs of Police, and Captains from police departments across Minnesota\u2019s First Congressional District. The discussion gave law enforcement officers the opportunity to highlight successes within their departments, as well as discuss the challenges they face while serving communities.\n\n\u201cDay in and day out, our law enforcement officers answer the call to serve, keeping our loved ones out of harm\u2019s way and protecting the communities we love,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cI\u2019m proud to be a strong supporter of our law enforcement heroes and will continue working alongside federal and local partners to help our police departments succeed. Discussions like these give me the opportunity to speak directly to our local law enforcement leaders and hear how I can continue to support their teams in Congress.\u201d", 1, "2026-06-19T06:50:32Z", "2026-06-19T06:53:40Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/6/congresswoman-fischbach-talked-rural-energy-costs-and-infrastructure-needs-with-traverse-electric-co-op-leadership-in-wheaton", "Congresswoman Fischbach Talked Rural Energy Costs and Infrastructure Needs with Traverse Electric Co-Op Leadership in Wheaton", "2026-06-18", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Willmar, MN -- Representative Michelle Fischbach visited the leadership team at Traverse Electric Co-Op in Wheaton to discuss her efforts in DC to cut regulatory red tape, modernize rural energy infrastructure, and ensure families and small businesses maintain access to reliable power.\n\nDuring the meeting, Traverse leaders highlighted the unique challenges facing rural electric cooperatives, particularly aging systems that are vulnerable to severe weather. To ensure energy co-ops have the tools they need to modernize and respond rapidly to emergencies, Rep. Fischbach is taking direct legislative action in Washington as a cosponsor of the Fixing Emergency Management for Americans (FEMA) Act. This bipartisan bill speeds up funding delivery, allowing co-ops and local communities to rebuild quickly when severe weather strikes.\n\nAdditionally, the discussion focused on the critical role of Rural Utilities Service (RUS) loans in financing grid upgrades. To back the demand for these infrastructure updates, Rep. Fischbach supported the House-passed 2027 Agriculture Appropriations bill, which boosts RUS loan capacity.", 1, "2026-06-25T06:30:03Z", "2026-06-25T06:31:21Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/6/congresswoman-fischbach-hosted-a-rural-law-enforcement-roundtable-in-alexandria", "Congresswoman Fischbach Hosted a Rural Law Enforcement Roundtable in Alexandria", "2026-06-17", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Willmar, MN -- Representative Michelle Fischbach recently hosted a rural law enforcement roundtable in Alexandria, bringing together Western Minnesota Police Chiefs, Sheriffs, and U.S. Attorney Daniel Rosen to strengthen partnerships between federal and local law enforcement agencies.\n\nThe roundtable provided a direct forum for local law enforcement leaders to discuss the unique challenges facing rural departments, including resource constraints and community safety needs. Rep. Fischbach emphasized her ongoing commitment to ensuring federal agencies are accessible and fully equipped to back local officers on the ground. She remains dedicated to fostering strong communication between federal authorities and local departments to ensure Western Minnesota neighborhoods remain a safe place for families to call home.", 1, "2026-06-25T06:30:03Z", "2026-06-25T06:31:21Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/06/16/finstad-calls-on-usps-to-reconsider-the-termination-of-postal-contract-for-hunt-silver-lake-postal-station-in-rochester/", "Finstad Calls on USPS to Reconsider the Termination of Postal Contract for Hunt Silver Lake Postal Station in Rochester", "2026-06-16", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) sent a letter to United States Postal Service (USPS) Postmaster General David Steiner expressing his opposition to their decision to terminate the postal contract for the Hunt Silver Lake Postal Station in Rochester. The letter urges USPS to reconsider their decision, conduct a thorough investigation on the impact on the local community, and explore alternatives that would allow postal services to remain available at the current location.\n\n\u201cFor 67 years, Hunt\u2019s Silver Lake Drug has provided the local Rochester community with convenient access to USPS services through their Hunt Silver Lake Postal Station,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cI\u2019m disappointed in the decision to end operations at this location that many of our neighbors rely on, and I call on USPS to reconsider.\u201d\n\nFinstad continued, \u201cThe Hunt Silver Lake Postal Station provides the Rochester area with essential postal services for small business owners, community members with limited transportation options, and those who rely on USPS for bill payments, medications, and correspondence. I urge USPS to investigate the impact on the local community and explore alternatives for continued postal service.\u201d\n\nBackground:", 1, "2026-06-17T06:49:24Z", "2026-06-17T06:50:53Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/6/rep-fischbach-minnesota-gop-delegation-call-for-walz-ellison-resignation-over-fraud-involvement", "Rep. Fischbach, Minnesota GOP Delegation Call for Walz & Ellison Resignation Over Fraud Involvement", "2026-06-11", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) sent a letter along with Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06), Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), and Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) to Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison, calling for their immediate resignations from office over the findings of a new House Oversight Committee report outlining that both state officials have known about the rampant fraud in Minnesota since 2019. The report also exposed that both officials silenced and punished whistleblowers for trying to sound the alarm.\n\n\"The House Oversight Committee's report strips away any doubt that Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison not only turned a blind eye to the fraud, they actively protected it. Since 2019, they have silenced and intimidated whistleblowers who tried to sound alarms,\" said Rep. Fischbach. \"Their negligence has turned Minnesota into a playground for criminals. If Walz & Ellison have any respect left for the Minnesotans they betrayed, they will resign immediately.\"\n\n\u201cIf these allegations are true, Tim Walz or Keith Ellison should leave office in handcuffs. At the very least, they should resign from office in disgrace. Public officials need to be held accountable for allowing billions of taxpayer dollars to be stolen from Minnesotan and American taxpayers. We\u2019ve had enough,\u201d said Congressman Tom Emmer.\n\n\u201cThe House Oversight Committee\u2019s bombshell report concludes that Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison knew about the rampant fraud in Minnesota since 2019 and failed to act, allowing billions in taxpayer dollars to be stolen. Their inaction seriously betrayed the trust of Minnesota\u2019s taxpayers,\" said Rep. Stauber. \"I commend Vice President Vance for referring both Walz and Ellison to the Department of Justice for criminal investigation. As the DOJ reviews the evidence, they must resign from office immediately.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe leaders and officials who are responsible for safeguarding taxpayer dollars have allowed fraud to plague our federally funded assistance programs and must be held accountable,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cIt is absolutely unacceptable that Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison were not only aware of the fraud running rampant throughout our state but also possessed the legal and procedural authority to prevent it, ignored and dismissed warnings from employees and whistleblowers, and still repeatedly failed to act. As a result of the inaction of our state\u2019s so-called leaders, billions of hard-earned taxpayer dollars were diverted to bad actors instead of helping Minnesotans in need.\"\n\nCongresswoman Fischbach recently introduced the Federal Funds Whistleblower Protection Extension Act to protect taxpayer dollars by expanding federal whistleblower protections to state and local government employees. This legislation protects whistleblowers who report corruption and strictly prohibits government officials from retaliating.\n\nThe introduction of this bill followed a House Oversight Committee hearing that Representative Fischbach waived onto, where it was confirmed by Minnesota State Representatives that there are currently no criminal penalties for government officials who retaliate against those who speak out against funding mismanagement.\n\nFischbach continued, \"It is more apparent now than ever that we need criminal penalties for state officials who punish whistleblowers. If Walz and Ellison had listened to these individuals from the start, billions of taxpayer dollars could have gone to the most vulnerable Minnesotans. Walz and Ellison should resign immediately, and if they are found guilty of knowingly retaliating against whistleblowers, they should face jail time.\"", 1, "2026-06-12T06:37:16Z", "2026-06-12T06:39:00Z"], ["https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-minnesota-gop-congressional-delegation-call-walz-and-ellison-resign", "Stauber, Minnesota GOP Congressional Delegation Call for Walz and Ellison to Resign After House Oversight Fraud Report", "2026-06-11", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Pete Stauber", "S001212", "stauber.house.gov", "stauber", "https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 This week, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) joined Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06), and Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) in sending a letter to Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison, calling for their immediate resignations from office following a bombshell House Oversight Committee report exposing that both officials knew about the rampant fraud in Minnesota since 2019 and did nothing to stop it.\n\n\u201cThe House Oversight Committee\u2019s bombshell report concludes that Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison knew about the rampant fraud in Minnesota since 2019 and failed to act, allowing billions in taxpayer dollars to be stolen. Their inaction seriously betrayed the trust of Minnesota\u2019s taxpayers,\" said Congressman Stauber. \"I commend Vice President Vance for referring both Walz and Ellison to the Department of Justice for criminal investigation. As the DOJ reviews the evidence, they must resign from office immediately.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe leaders and officials who are responsible for safeguarding taxpayer dollars have allowed fraud to plague our federally funded assistance programs and must be held accountable,\u201d said Congressman Finstad. \u201cIt is absolutely unacceptable that Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison were not only aware of the fraud running rampant throughout our state but also possessed the legal and procedural authority to prevent it, ignored and dismissed warnings from employees and whistleblowers, and still repeatedly failed to act. As a result of the inaction of our state\u2019s so-called leaders, billions of hard-earned taxpayer dollars were diverted to bad actors instead of helping Minnesotans in need.\"\n\n\u201cIf these allegations are true, Tim Walz or Keith Ellison should leave office in handcuffs. At the very least, they should resign from office in disgrace. Public officials need to be held accountable for allowing billions of taxpayer dollars to be stolen from Minnesotan and American taxpayers. We\u2019ve had enough,\u201d said Majority Whip Emmer.\n\n\"The House Oversight Committee's report strips away any doubt that Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison not only turned a blind eye to the fraud, they actively protected it. Since 2019, they have silenced and intimidated whistleblowers who tried to sound alarms,\" said Congresswoman Fischbach. \"Their negligence has turned Minnesota into a playground for criminals. If Walz & Ellison have any respect left for the Minnesotans they betrayed, they will resign immediately.\"\n\nRead the full letter to Walz & Ellison here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-house-republicans-pass-ghost-student-anti-fraud-bill", "Emmer, House Republicans Pass \u201cGhost Student\u201d Anti-Fraud Bill", "2026-06-10", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Tom Emmer", "E000294", "emmer.house.gov", "emmer", "https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) and House Republicans passed the No Aid for Ghost Students Act of 2026, legislation to stop fraud in student aid. The bill ensures only real students receive aid by establishing fraud detection systems to identify suspicious applications before aid is disbursed.\n\n\u201cWhether it's fraud through housing programs, autism centers, day cares, or our universities, criminals are abusing our public systems to scam taxpayers and harm vulnerable populations,\u201d said Congressman Emmer. \u201cBy combatting fraud in federal student aid, House Republicans are supporting future generations of students and giving those who truly need the aid the ability to receive it.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\n\u201cGhost students\u201d are fraudsters who use fake or stolen identities to enroll in higher education and pocket the federal financial aid they receive. This type of fraud has been rising in recent years, making this legislation all the more necessary.\n\nIn the 2024-2025 academic year alone, the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system flagged more than 7,715 applications as \u201cfraudulent\u201d or \"potentially fraudulent.\u201d The U.S. Department of Education has identified $90 million of payments that went to \u201cineligible recipients\u201d nationwide.\n\nIn December 2025, U.S. Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon sent a letter to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz regarding the inexcusable fraud that has taken place as a result of his negligence.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-11T06:38:38Z", "2026-06-11T06:41:07Z"], ["https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-minnesota-republican-delegation-demand-walz-and-ellison-resign-following-new-fraud-report", "Emmer, Minnesota Republican Delegation Demand Walz and Ellison Resign Following New Fraud Report", "2026-06-10", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Tom Emmer", "E000294", "emmer.house.gov", "emmer", "https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) joined Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08), Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), and Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) in calling on Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison to resign from office following the recent report issued by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, highlighting their systematic failure to safeguard taxpayer dollars.\n\n\u201cIf these allegations are true, Tim Walz and Keith Ellison should leave office in handcuffs. At the very least, they should resign from office in disgrace. Public officials need to be held accountable for allowing billions of taxpayer dollars to be stolen from Minnesotan and American taxpayers. We\u2019ve had enough,\u201d said Congressman Tom Emmer.\n\nBackground\n\nHouse Republicans and the Trump administration have made rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse in taxpayer funded programs their top priority.\n\nIn December, 2025, the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform launched an investigation into Minnesota\u2019s social service programs. Their investigation determined that both Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison were aware of the fraud and yet did nothing to prevent it.\n\nOn March 4, 2026, during a House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform hearing, Congressman Emmer questioned both Walz and Ellison on their involvement in Minnesota Fraud. To conclude the line of questioning, Congressman Emmer told Ellison, \u201cMr. Ellison, my concern is that you actively obstructed this investigation in exchange for campaign donations - a quid pro quo. If these concerns are proven to be true, you should be disbarred and you should go to jail.\u201d\n\nOn June 8, 2026, the Committee released a report titled, \u201cThe Cost of Doing Nothing: How Tim Walz and Keith Ellison Fueled Minnesota\u2019s Fraud Explosion.\u201d The report details how Walz and Ellison not only knew about the fraud, but failed to act.\n\nOn June 8, 2026, following the Oversight Committee\u2019s report, Vice President JD Vance referred Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison to the Justice Department for a criminal fraud investigation regarding federally funded programs.\n\nYou can read the letter sent to Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison demanding their resignation here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-11T06:38:38Z", "2026-06-11T06:41:07Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/06/10/finstad-leads-minnesota-congressional-republicans-in-letter-urging-governor-walz-and-attorney-general-ellison-to-resign-after-house-oversight-fraud-report/", "Finstad Leads Minnesota Congressional Republicans in Letter Urging Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison to Resign After House Oversight Fraud Report", "2026-06-10", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) led Minnesota Congressional Republicans in sending a letter to Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison urging them to resign following the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform\u2019s recent report on the committee\u2019s investigation into Minnesota\u2019s fraud scandals. The report, \u201cThe Cost of Doing Nothing: How Tim Walz and Keith Ellison Fueled Minnesota\u2019s Fraud Explosion,\u201d exposed how Governor Walz, Attorney General Ellison, and other senior Minnesota state officials had been aware of the widespread fraud in federally funded social programs for years, and failed to address it.\n\n\u201cThe leaders and officials who are responsible for safeguarding taxpayer dollars have allowed fraud to plague our federally funded assistance programs and must be held accountable,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cIt is absolutely unacceptable that Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison were not only aware of the fraud running rampant throughout our state but also possessed the legal and procedural authority to prevent it, ignored and dismissed warnings from employees and whistleblowers, and still repeatedly failed to act.\u201d\n\nFinstad continued, \u201cAs a result of the inaction of our state\u2019s so-called leaders, billions of hard-earned taxpayer dollars were diverted to bad actors instead of helping Minnesotans in need. My fellow Minnesota Congressional Republicans and I are calling on Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison to resign and will work to restore confidence and public trust in our federally funded assistance programs.\u201d\n\n\u201cIf these allegations are true, Tim Walz and Keith Ellison should leave office in handcuffs. At the very least, they should resign from office in disgrace. Public officials need to be held accountable for allowing billions of taxpayer dollars to be stolen from Minnesotan and American taxpayers. We\u2019ve had enough,\u201d said Rep. Tom Emmer.\n\n\u201cThe House Oversight Committee\u2019s report strips away any doubt that Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison not only turned a blind eye to the fraud, they actively protected it. Since 2019, they have silenced and intimidated whistleblowers who tried to sound alarms. Their negligence has turned Minnesota into a playground for criminals. If Walz & Ellison have any respect left for the Minnesotans they betrayed, they will resign immediately,\u201d said Rep. Michelle Fischbach.\n\n\u201cThe House Oversight Committee\u2019s bombshell report concludes that Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison knew about the rampant fraud in Minnesota since 2019 and failed to act, allowing billions in taxpayer dollars to be stolen. Their inaction seriously betrayed the trust of Minnesota\u2019s taxpayers. I commend Vice President Vance for referring both Walz and Ellison to the Department of Justice for criminal investigation. As the DOJ reviews the evidence, they must resign from office immediately,\u201d said Rep. Pete Stauber.\n\nBackground:", 1, "2026-06-11T06:38:38Z", "2026-06-11T06:41:07Z"], ["https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-legislation-speed-first-contracts-new-unions-passes-house", "Stauber Legislation to Speed Up First Contracts for New Unions Passes House", "2026-06-10", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Pete Stauber", "S001212", "stauber.house.gov", "stauber", "https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 This week, Congressman Pete Stauber\u2019s (MN-08) Faster Labor Contracts Act passed the House of Representatives. This bipartisan legislation will ensure that when workers vote to form a union, employers are not allowed to drag out negotiations on a collective bargaining agreement.\n\n\u201cAs a former police officer who organized my union, I\u2019ve seen firsthand how frustrating this process can be for workers seeking a fair and timely contract,\u201d said Congressman Pete Stauber. \u201cAmerica\u2019s workers are the backbone of our economy, yet too often employers delay negotiations or refuse to engage in good-faith bargaining when it comes to a first union contract. The Faster Labor Contracts Act will ensure employers come to the table quickly, and I look forward to seeing this legislation have a positive impact on countless union workers and their families across the Northland.\u201d\n\nAccording to Bloomberg Law, it takes an average of 458 days for unions and employers to agree on a first contract.\n\nThe Faster Labor Contracts Act will amend Section 8(d) of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) to require the following:\n\nAfter workers have voted to form a union, employers must begin negotiating with the new union within 10 days.\n\nIf no agreement is reached after 90 days, a government mediator will step in to assist.\n\nIf mediation fails 30 days after that, the dispute will be referred to a binding 3-person arbitration panel made up of one representative chosen by the workers, one representative chosen by the employers, and a neutral third member.\n\nThis bill is endorsed by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters; Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU); American Compass; Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division-International Brotherhood of Teamsters; International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE); International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers (IW); International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF); International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW); International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots; International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers; International Union of Operating Engineers; International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT); International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW); Laborers' International Union of North America (LiUNA); Marine Engineers\u2019 Beneficial Association (M.E.B.A.); National Employment Law Project; Transport Workers Union (TWU); Transportation Communications Union (TCU/IAM); United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada (UA); United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBC); United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW); United Mine Workers of America (UMWA); United Steelworkers (USW); Utility Workers Union of America\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-reacts-house-oversight-findings-governor-tim-walz-and-attorney-general", "Stauber Reacts to House Oversight Findings that Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison Knew of Fraud and Failed to Act", "2026-06-08", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Pete Stauber", "S001212", "stauber.house.gov", "stauber", "https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) made the following statement after the House Oversight Committee released a report titled, \u201cThe Cost of Doing Nothing: How Tim Walz and Keith Ellison Fueled Minnesota\u2019s Fraud Explosion.\u201d The bombshell report exposes how senior Minnesota state officials, including Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison, knew about widespread taxpayer fraud in federally funded social programs for years, had the authority to stop payments and ban fraudulent providers from participating in these programs, but repeatedly failed to act.\n\nCongressman Stauber stated, \u201cHistory will never forget that Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison knew about the fraud plaguing Minnesota for years and turned a blind eye to it. Investigators found that concerns about allegations of racial discrimination contributed to their decision to allow these fraudsters to keep operating, and state employees who raised concerns about the fraud faced retaliation instead of support. This is unacceptable. As a result of their dereliction of duty, $9 billion in Medicaid funds and $300 million in federal child nutrition funds have been lost. This week, the House will consider ten bills aimed at protecting taxpayer funds and combatting improper payments in federal programs, and we will continue to work alongside President Trump\u2019s anti-fraud taskforce to ensure this type of malfeasance can never occur again. Fraud is an invisible tax on hardworking Americans, and Republicans are working to eliminate it because that\u2019s what the American people demand and deserve.\u201d\n\nKey findings from this report include:\n\nGovernor Walz and Attorney General Ellison were aware of rampant fraud in Minnesota\u2019s social services programs as early as 2019 but failed to take action to prevent the theft of billions of taxpayer dollars.\n\nMinnesota state agencies had the authority to stop or suspend payments to providers suspected of fraud without requiring independent direction from courts, law enforcement agencies, or the federal government but failed to act.\n\nMinnesota officials continued directing taxpayer dollars to Feeding Our Future and other high-risk entities despite identifying serious red-flags, enabling billions of dollars in federal funds to go to fraudsters.\n\nTestimony and documents show that concerns about litigation and accusations of discrimination were cited as reasons for continuing payments to suspected fraudsters.\n\nThe Walz Administration retaliated against state employees who raised concerns about fraud, while senior state officials prioritized managing political and media fallout over addressing known fraud vulnerabilities.\n\nFailures to prevent fraud resulted in an estimated $300 million in federal child nutrition funds and $9 billion in Medicaid-related funds to be lost.\n\nRead the full report HERE.\n\nDuring House Oversight\u2019s investigation into Minnesota fraud, Congressman Stauber had an opportunity to waive on to the House Oversight Committee and question witnesses about the ongoing fraud in Minnesota.\n\nHe has also introduced a number of bills to combat fraud, including the Stop Fraud by SOMALIA Act, legislation that penalizes childcare providers who commit fraud in federally funded programs.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/06/05/finstad-applauds-committee-passage-of-fy27-national-defense-authorization-act/", "Finstad Applauds Committee Passage of FY27 National Defense Authorization Act", "2026-06-05", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), member of the House Armed Services Committee, released a statement following the full committee markup of H.R. 8800, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027:\n\n\u201cIn revitalizing America\u2019s industrial base, enhancing quality of life for our servicemembers, and lowering barriers for small businesses, giving them greater opportunities to innovate and be a part of our supply chains, this FY27 NDAA delivers and builds upon critical components of Peace Through Strength,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cI was proud to support the Committee\u2019s passage of this crucial, bipartisan legislation, and look forward to getting it to the House Floor.\u201d\n\nFinstad continued, \u201cIncluded in the Chairman\u2019s Mark, the Committee\u2019s proposed $1.15 trillion defense policy bill, was the National Guard Relief Act, legislation I introduced to designate the National Guard Relief Foundation as a military welfare society, ensuring our National Guard Members and their families have assistance in times of need. I am grateful to see this legislation move forward and will continue working to improve the quality of life for our servicemembers who work tirelessly to protect this great nation.\u201d\n\n\u201cThanks to Congressman Finstad\u2019s leadership, the FY27 NDAA designates the National Guard Relief Foundation as an official Military Relief Organization \u2013 a critical policy that will support National Guard members facing difficult circumstances,\u201d said House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers. \u201cHe\u2019s been a strong advocate for servicemembers, military families, and veterans in Minnesota and across the country. I look forward to working together to revitalize our defense industrial base, restock the Arsenal of Freedom, and reinforce our national security.\u201d\n\nAlso included in the FY27 NDAA is language from Congressman Finstad\u2019s legislation, the Strategic Transparency Act, ensuring that the United States remains equipped with the information necessary to respond to China\u2019s growing influence and evolving military capabilities.\n\nCongressman Finstad authored 14 provisions and numerous amendments within this year\u2019s NDAA that strengthen our overall national defense, such as:", 1, "2026-06-06T06:16:30Z", "2026-06-06T06:17:47Z"], ["https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/new-data-highlights-everyday-americans-winning-big-from-gop-s-working-families-tax-cuts", "New Data Highlights Everyday Americans Winning Big from GOP\u2019s Working Families Tax Cuts", "2026-06-02", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Tom Emmer", "E000294", "emmer.house.gov", "emmer", "https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the following statement after new data was released by the U.S. Department of Treasury showing how the Working Families Tax Cuts delivered historic tax relief for everyday, hardworking Americans. Notably, the data reports that 96% of filers receiving a tax cut this year earned less than $200,000, making clear Republicans\u2019 signature tax bill is having a positive impact on working families.\n\n\u201cThis tax season, American workers and their families claimed $82 billion in individual relief directly from the Working Families Tax Cuts,\u201d said Congressman Emmer. \u201cThis legislation is the single-greatest victory for working families in history! Thanks to House Republicans and President Trump, everyday Americans are keeping more of their hard-earned money. It\u2019s a shame that Tim Walz and the DFL blocked many of these game-changing provisions from helping Minnesotans.\u201d\n\n2026 tax season facts and figures, courtesy of the Treasury Department:\n\nNearly 70% of filers receiving a tax cut earned less than $100,000\n\nOver 7.5 million filers claimed the No Tax on Tips provision\n\nOver 29 million filers claimed the No Tax on Overtime provision\n\nOver 35 million seniors claimed the Enhanced Deduction for Seniors\n\nOver 1.4 million filers claimed the No Tax on Car Loan Interest provision\n\nNearly 40 million families claimed the enhanced Child Tax Credit\n\nBackground:\n\nOn July 4, 2025, President Trump signed the Working Families Tax Cuts into law, securing no taxes on tips, no taxes on overtime, no taxes on Social Security, and no taxes on American-made car loans, among other provisions.\n\nBefore this legislation was passed, taxes were set to increase by $5 trillion. Thanks to its passage, 97% of filers received a tax cut this year.\n\nEarlier this year, Tim Walz and Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) party officials, sick with Trump Derangement Syndrome, blocked key provisions of the Working Families Tax Cuts from going into effect - including no tax on tips and no tax on overtime provisions - for hardworking Minnesota families.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-05T06:35:23Z", "2026-06-05T06:36:42Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/06/02/finstad-announces-2026-congressional-app-challenge/", "Finstad Announces 2026 Congressional App Challenge", "2026-06-02", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "ROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) invited middle and high school students from Minnesota\u2019s First Congressional District to participate in the 2026 Congressional App Challenge.\n\nOfficially launched by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2015, the competition is a nationwide event intended to engage students\u2019 creativity and encourage their participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields by inviting them to create and exhibit their software application (also known as an \u201capp\u201d) for web, PC, tablet, mobile, or other platform of their choice. Students may compete as individuals or in teams of up to four, as long as two of the teammates attend schools within the First District.\n\n\u201cThe Congressional App Challenge is a valuable opportunity for middle and high school students to explore computer science while turning their ideas into real-world applications,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cSouthern Minnesota is home to some of the brightest young minds, many of whom will become our nation\u2019s next generation of innovators. I look forward to seeing the creativity and ingenuity they create this year.\u201d\n\nFirst-place winners from each Congressional district are invited to demonstrate their apps to Members of Congress at the #HouseofCode event held each spring. Last year\u2019s winning app for Minnesota\u2019s First Congressional District was \u201cDermaSight\u201d submitted by Simon Wilke of Century High School in Rochester. His app helps users detect early signs of skin cancer directly from their phones.", 1, "2026-06-03T06:40:39Z", "2026-06-03T06:42:22Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/05/29/finstad-morrison-introduce-the-veteran-burial-benefit-correction-act/", "Finstad, Morrison Introduce the Veteran Burial Benefit Correction Act", "2026-05-29", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Congresswoman Kelly Morrison (MN-03) introduced the Veteran Burial Benefit Correction Act, legislation which increases and standardizes burial and funeral benefits for veterans who die from service-connected disabilities. To keep up with rising costs and ensure consistent coverage for eligible veterans\u2019 families, this legislation raises the fixed burial and funeral expense payment from $2,000 to $3,000.\n\n\u201cThe families of our fallen servicemembers and veterans suffer greatly when losing a loved one due to injuries sustained in defense of our great nation,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cI am proud to introduce legislation that helps their legacy live on by ensuring veterans\u2019 families can cover the cost of funerals and burials for their loved ones who have died from service-connected disabilities.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery veteran who serves our country deserves to be laid to rest honorably. This bipartisan legislation would increase burial and funeral service benefits for the families of veterans who have passed from a service-connected disability. I\u2019m proud to lead this bill and look forward to seeing it passed into law so our veterans can be honored appropriately without financially straining their loved ones,\u201d said Rep. Morrison.\n\nBackground:", 1, "2026-05-30T06:11:53Z", "2026-05-30T06:13:24Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/5/rep-fischbach-cosponsors-resolution-to-bring-awareness-to-agriculture-workers-mental-health", "Rep. Fischbach Cosponsors Resolution to Bring Awareness to Agriculture Workers' Mental Health", "2026-05-29", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC - Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) joined over twenty of her colleagues on a resolution to recognize the mental health crisis facing America's agricultural producers and workforce. According to the National Rural Health Association, the suicide rate among farmers is 3.5 times higher than the general population. This bill would designate May 29th of this year as \"Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture Day,\" recognizing the unique pressures faced by farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers across the country and raising awareness about the resources available to those in need.\n\n\"Our farmers, producers, and agriculture workers carry a heavy burden every day to fuel, feed, and clothe our nation. The stress of volatile markets, unpredictable weather, and grueling hours is real, but no one in our ag communities should have to carry it alone,\" said Rep. Fischbach. \"It's time to break the silence, end the stigma, and ensure our rural communities have the mental health resources and support they deserve.\"\n\nEarlier this Congress, Representative Fischbach used her position on the Ways and Means Committee to play an instrumental role in developing and passing the One Big Beautiful Bill, which included text to permanently double the death tax exemption. Before the doubling of this exemption, too many farmers suffered from the mental and emotional toll that came with paying the death tax on inherited farmland. Protecting the mental health of farmers means ensuring they Don't lose their generational family farms to the tax collector. Because of Rep. Fischbach's work, thousands of fam families will no longer face that hardship.", 1, "2026-06-02T06:40:38Z", "2026-06-02T06:42:17Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/5/congresswoman-michelle-fischbach-talks-cpfs-in-ruthton", "Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach Talks CPFs in Ruthton", "2026-05-28", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Willmar, MN -- Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach met with Ruthton City Officials to review a $750,000 Community Project Funding grant she secured in the Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriations for their water tower replacement project. This critical federal funding serves as the first step in Ruthton's broader, three-year plan to completely overhaul its aging drinking water and sewer systems. City leaders outlined their plan to connect to Rural Water, which will eliminate the need to upgrade the local water treatment facility and reduce overall project costs by approximately $5 million. Rep. Fischbach reiterated that small towns should not be left behind due to limited administrative staff and pledged her office's continued assistance in helping local officials navigate and secure federal grant dollars.", 1, "2026-06-10T06:36:00Z", "2026-06-10T06:37:32Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/5/congresswoman-michelle-fischbach-visits-hank-s-foods-in-pipestone", "Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach Visits Hank's Foods in Pipestone", "2026-05-28", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Willmar, MN - Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach stopped by Hank\u2019s Foods in Pipestone to meet with owner Tim and discuss the staffing shortages and operational challenges impacting independent grocers across the district. In addition to highlighting Hank's strong community involvement, including hosting neighborhood parking-lot cookouts, the conversation centered on the thin margins rural grocers face when competing with large corporations for staffing talent. Rep. Fischbach emphasized that she is pushing for common-sense workforce development, apprenticeship programs, and legislation to protect local employers from bureaucratic overreach, providing long-term economic stability for small, local businesses.", 1, "2026-06-10T06:36:00Z", "2026-06-10T06:37:32Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/05/27/finstad-introduces-legislation-to-designate-austin-post-office-as-the-john-madden-memorial-post-office/", "Finstad Introduces Legislation to Designate Austin Post Office as the \u201cJohn Madden Memorial Post Office\u201d", "2026-05-27", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) announced the introduction of legislation designating the post office located at 200 1st Avenue SE in Austin, Minnesota, as the \u201cJohn Madden Memorial Post Office.\u201d John Madden, born in Austin in 1936, was a Super Bowl-winning, nationally renowned head coach in the National Football League (NFL). After his historic career in the NFL, Madden went on to become a commentator, with his sportscasting career spanning from 1979 to 2009, covering 11 total Super Bowls and winning 16 Sports Emmy Awards. To this day, he is still considered one of the greatest coaches and broadcasters in NFL history.\n\n\u201cIt is an honor to introduce legislation that memorializes the football legend, John Madden, in his birthplace of Austin, Minnesota,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cMadden had a one-of-a-kind career and Minnesota\u2019s First District is lucky to be a part of it. I look forward to keeping his legacy alive for years to come.\u201d", 1, "2026-05-28T06:29:45Z", "2026-05-28T06:31:18Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/5/congresswoman-michelle-fischbach-in-windom", "Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach Visits Windom", "2026-05-27", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Willmar, MN -- Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach visited Windom Area Health to meet with leadership and medical staff to discuss their collaborative leadership model and regional outreach to communities like Fairmont, Trimont, Slayton, and Lakefield. The conversation focused on the need for rural families to have access to quality care and the hospital's recruitment of nursing staff and specialty physicians. Rep. Fischbach highlighted her work on the One Big Beautiful Bill, where, through her position on the Ways and Means Committee, she successfully established the Rural Health Transformation Program to authorize $50 billion to modernize rural medical networks nationwide. She also shared that for Fiscal Year 2026, she worked to secure $193 million in federal funding specifically to strengthen Greater Minnesota's healthcare workforce and ensure rural hospitals have the resources to keep their doors open.\n\nWhile in Windom, the Congresswoman also visited the Ag Builders facility to discuss workforce shortages, particularly for qualified trade- and tech-trained employees, and detailed their partnerships with local schools alongside broader community barriers like housing and daycare. Rep. Fischbach used the visit to reinforce her commitment to pro-rural workforce development policies, like the newly established Workforce Pell Grants, which enable students to access accredited workforce programs for industries in need.", 1, "2026-06-10T06:36:00Z", "2026-06-10T06:37:32Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/5/congresswoman-michelle-fischbach-meets-with-usda-fsa-in-slayton", "Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach Meets with USDA FSA in Slayton", "2026-05-27", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Willmar, MN -- Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach met with staff at the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) office to discuss regional agricultural programs and support for multi-generational family farms. Staff highlighted that Minnesota leads the nation in Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SECD) payments and shared updates on a pilot program to improve and streamline acreage reporting. Rep. Fischbach discussed the critical need for expanded training and resources to help area farmers navigate complex FSA applications and payment programs, reaffirming her commitment to cutting bureaucratic red tape for Western Minnesota\u2019s agricultural community.", 1, "2026-06-10T06:36:00Z", "2026-06-10T06:37:32Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/05/22/finstad-introduces-legislation-expressing-support-for-efforts-to-combat-waste-fraud-and-abuse-in-federal-health-care-programs/", "Finstad\u00a0Introduces Legislation Expressing Support for Efforts to Combat Waste, Fraud, and Abuse\u00a0in Federal Health Care Programs", "2026-05-22", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) announced the introduction of a resolution expressing support for continued efforts to safeguard Medicare, Medicaid, and other federal health care programs from waste, fraud, and abuse through strengthened program integrity measures, enhanced oversight, and coordinated enforcement actions. The resolution also recognizes the work of the Trump administration and congressional Republicans to investigate and prosecute fraud.\n\n\u201cFor far too long, fraud has run rampant through our federal health care programs, stealing billions of taxpayer dollars from hardworking Americans,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cI am proud to introduce this resolution that expresses Congress\u2019 support for ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to protect Medicare, Medicaid, and other federal health care programs from bad actors who are personally profiting on the taxpayers\u2019 dime.\u201d\n\nFinstad continued, \u201cJust this week, the Department of Justice charged 15 people for alleged schemes that defrauded Minnesota Medicaid programs of $90 million. It is high time we put an end to this waste, fraud, and abuse, and restore integrity in our federally funded programs.\u201d\n\n\u201cCongressman Finstad has been a leader in exposing the billions stolen from our federal health care programs, including the rampant fraud in Minnesota. The RSC is committed to cracking down on every criminal who robs taxpayers through Medicare and Medicaid fraud. This is theft, plain and simple. I am proud to cosponsor this resolution and support the Trump administration\u2019s aggressive actions to hold bad actors accountable to the fullest extent of the law,\u201d said Republican Study Committee Chairman August Pfluger.\n\nThis resolution was cosponsored by Reps. Don Bacon (NE-02), Tom Barrett (MI-07), Mike Haridopolos (FL-08), Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Mary Miller (IL-15), August Pfluger (TX-11), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Dave Taylor (OH-02), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), and Daniel Webster (FL-11).\n\nBackground:", 1, "2026-05-23T06:08:46Z", "2026-05-23T06:10:20Z"], ["https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-ensures-minnesota-priorities-are-included-build-america-250-act", "Stauber Ensures Minnesota Priorities Are Included in the Build America 250 Act", "2026-05-22", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Pete Stauber", "S001212", "stauber.house.gov", "stauber", "https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 This week, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) participated in the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee\u2019s markup of the Build America 250 Act, a bipartisan surface transportation reauthorization bill that strengthens critical infrastructure and keeps people and goods moving safely and efficiently across the country. Several of Stauber\u2019s priorities were included in this legislation, including his Brake for Kids Act and several permitting reform provisions.\n\nUnder this legislation, Minnesota is estimated to receive $4,836,979,308 in highway apportionments and $141,618,838 per year to support the rehabilitation and construction of bridges in the State. It also prioritizes rural and small communities through dedicated funding for discretionary grant programs.\n\nOf this legislation, Stauber said, \u201cThis week, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee marked up the most significant surface transportation bill in decades. This legislation returns our nation\u2019s investments to traditional infrastructure projects by securing the first new revenue into the Highway Trust Fund in over 30 years and making the largest investment into bridges in our history. Rural America is being prioritized under this legislation, and once passed, I expect to see significant funding distributed to much needed projects in Minnesota\u2019s Eighth District. I was also proud to have many of my legislative priorities included, like significant permitting reform to speed up project delivery and my Brake for Kids Act to protect kids from illegal school bus passings. I look forward to seeing this legislation swiftly pass off the House Floor.\u201d\n\nHere is a breakdown of bill highlights included in the bill:", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/5/rep-fischbach-joins-letter-pressing-for-action-to-protect-u-s-sugar-producers-from-unfair-foreign-trade-practices", "Rep. Fischbach Joins Letter Pressing for Action to Protect U.S. Sugar Producers from Unfair Foreign Trade Practices", "2026-05-21", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC - Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) signed a letter in support of efforts by U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer to utilize a Section 301 investigation into unfair and discriminatory trade practices by foreign sugar-producing countries. In the letter, the members call on USTR to take appropriate action to protect American sugarbeet and sugarcane farmers, processors, refiners, and factory workers from being undercut by discriminatory foreign trade practices. This bipartisan and bicameral letter has support from over 110 members of Congress.\n\n\u201cThe sugar farming families and workers across our States support more than 151,000 jobs in more than two dozen states while generating more than $23 billion in economic activity each year. We are gravely concerned about the surge in unfairly traded foreign sugar imports, which, along with higher input costs, are plunging the domestic industry into crisis and presenting an imminent threat to the industry\u2019s long-term viability,\u201d wrote the members of Congress.\n\n\u201cU.S. sugar policy is a necessary response to a global playing field where foreign countries routinely sell sugar at well below the world cost of production\u2026 In the past 10 years, 14 percent of our nation\u2019s beet sugar processing facilities and 12 percent of our domestic cane sugar mills and refineries have closed, including the complete loss of sugarbeet farming in California (2025) and sugarcane farming in Hawaii (2016) and Texas (2024). Absent action to protect the domestic sugar industry from discriminatory foreign trade practices, these continued revenue losses will only mount, threatening the future existence of domestic U.S. sugar production. We strongly urge you to investigate these unfair trading practices that disadvantage our domestic sugar industry and take decisive action as appropriate.\u201d\n\nThe full letter is available here.\n\nThe following organizations are among those who have endorsed the letter: American Crystal Sugar Company, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Sugar Alliance, American Sugarbeet Growers Association, Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, National Farmers Union, Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association, Southern-Minnesota Beet Sugar Cooperative, US Beet Sugar Association, and US Sugar.", 1, "2026-05-22T06:27:39Z", "2026-05-22T06:29:18Z"], ["https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-statement-on-the-confirmation-of-james-stuart-as-us-marshal", "Emmer Statement on the Confirmation of James Stuart as U.S. Marshal", "2026-05-20", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Tom Emmer", "E000294", "emmer.house.gov", "emmer", "https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congressman Tom Emmer released the following statement after the U.S. Senate confirmed former Anoka County Sheriff James Stuart as the U.S. Marshal for the District of Minnesota.\n\n\u201cThe U.S. Senate has finally confirmed Sheriff James Stuart as the next U.S. Marshal for the District of Minnesota, and we are very grateful. With thirty years of experience in law enforcement, he will be a staunch defender of President Trump\u2019s efforts to crack down on the rampant crime and violence in Minnesota,\u201d said Congressman Emmer. \u201cAs the former Sheriff for Anoka County, he knows the danger that violent criminals, gangs, and fraudsters pose to our communities. James has been a great friend and partner over the years, and I look forward to working with him as our new U.S. Marshal.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nJames Stuart served three terms as the 17th Sheriff for Anoka County from 2011 until 2023. He has extensive experience in law enforcement, including as the President of the Minnesota Sheriffs\u2019 Association and Vice President of the National Sheriffs\u2019 Association.\n\nIn January, 2024, Congressman Tom Emmer, Congressman Pete Stauber, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach, and Congressman Brad Finstad formed a nominations committee to submit recommendations to President Trump to help fill the U.S. Marshal role. In October 2025, President Trump nominated James Stuart, one of their recommended candidates, for the position of the U.S. Marshal for the District of Minnesota.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-21T06:28:16Z", "2026-05-21T06:29:43Z"], ["https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-passes-whip-emmer-s-bill-to-increase-flexibility-for-local-banks", "House Passes Whip Emmer\u2019s Bill to Increase Flexibility for Local Banks", "2026-05-20", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Tom Emmer", "E000294", "emmer.house.gov", "emmer", "https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed his legislation, HR. 3234, the Keeping Deposits Local Act, to provide local banks with additional flexibility regarding reciprocal deposits. The bill passed by a vote of 405-0.\n\nImage\n\nClick here or above to watch Congressman Emmer\u2019s remarks.\n\nWhip Emmer: \u201cThe Keeping Deposits Local Act, which has been a priority for nearly a decade, passed the House today with nonpartisan support. Our bill gives local banks the flexibility they need to grow, compete, and invest in their communities. We\u2019re fostering local, relationship-oriented banking by helping protect deposits, supporting lending, and keeping dollars invested in the communities where they belong. We urge our Senate colleagues to pass this bill quickly.\u201d\n\nHouse Committee on Financial Services Chairman French Hill (R-Ark.): \u201cBanks are important economic drivers and deserve a regulatory framework that lets them compete, grow, and better serve their customers. Majority Whip Emmer and Congresswoman Beatty\u2019s bill would give banks greater flexibility to accept reciprocal deposits without triggering stricter brokered deposit requirements, freeing up more capital for local loans and investments. This is exactly the kind of smart, targeted reform at the heart of the Committee\u2019s Making Community Banking Great Again agenda. I was proud to support this legislation\u2019s passage in the House, and I urge my colleagues in the Senate to maintain this momentum and get it across the finish line.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nWhip Emmer introduced the Keeping Deposits Local Act on May 7, 2025, and it was approved by the House Financial Services Committee on September 16, 2025.\n\nThe Keeping Deposits Local Act allows community banks, which often have small branch networks, to accept a greater amount of reciprocal deposits before becoming subject to stringent brokered-deposit regulations, helping them make loans in their local communities.\n\nThe bill builds upon previous bipartisan legislation introduced by Rep. Emmer that was enacted by Congress in 2018, and excludes most reciprocal deposits from being treated as brokered deposits.\n\nHere\u2019s what they are saying about the H.R. 3234:\n\nRebecca Romero Rainey, President and CEO, The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA): \u201cICBA and the nation\u2019s community bankers congratulate Rep. Emmer on the House\u2019s passage of his Keeping Deposits Local Act to implement needed revisions to reciprocal deposits policy. We strongly support this bill to help community banks support local credit needs by creating a scale of tiered thresholds, and we encourage the Senate to quickly take up and pass this common-sense legislation.\u201d\n\nJoe Witt, President and CEO, Minnesota Bankers Association: \u201cThe Minnesota Bankers Association appreciates Congressman Emmer\u2019s leadership on this important reciprocal deposits legislation. As depository lenders, banks are reliant on stable and predictable deposits to fund their loans. This commonsense bill provides certainty for Minnesota\u2019s community and mid-size banks and helps ensure they can continue supporting local businesses, consumers, and communities.\u201d", 1, "2026-05-21T06:28:16Z", "2026-05-21T06:29:43Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/05/20/finstad-applauds-committee-passage-of-the-sba-artificial-intelligence-utilization-act-of-2026/", "Finstad Applauds Committee Passage of the SBA Artificial Intelligence Utilization Act of 2026", "2026-05-20", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Congressman George Latimer (NY-16), members of the House Committee on Small Business, applauded the full committee passage of H.R. 8881, the SBA Artificial Intelligence Utilization Act of 2026. This legislation would require the Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator to submit an annual report to Congress on the agency\u2019s use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning.\n\n\u201cIn a time of increasing amounts of accessible artificial intelligence, it\u2019s important to ensure our government agencies adopt AI responsibly and transparently,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cMy legislation, the SBA Artificial Intelligence Utilization Act of 2026, requires the SBA to report its use of AI and machine learning within their operations, while also assessing the advantages and risks.\u201d\n\nFinstad continued, \u201cThank you to my House Committee on Small Business colleagues for passing this important legislation that will help Congress better understand AI implementation within agency operations.\u201d", 1, "2026-05-21T06:28:16Z", "2026-05-21T06:29:43Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/5/rep-fischbach-announces-the-2026-congressional-art-competition-winners-from-mn-s-7th-district", "Rep. Fischbach Announces the 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winners from MN's 7th District", "2026-05-20", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Fischbach's office once again participated in the Congressional Art Competition. The office received over 40 submissions from students across the Seventh Congressional District.\n\n\"I am encouraged to see the number of talented students we have in the Seventh Congressional District,\" said Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach. \"Congratulations to Kira for winning first place with her piece, 'Geese in Harmony.' Her art piece will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol. Congratulations to Griffin, Kerstyn, and Margo on their second-place and honorable-mention awards, which will be displayed in my D.C. and district offices. I appreciate each student taking the time to work on their art and submitting it to the competition. Thank you to the art teachers and school administrators who work to assist the students and encourage them in their creative ventures.\"\n\nFirst Place: \"Geese in Harmony\" by Kira Gurley from Redwood Valley High School will hang in the U.S. Capitol.\n\nSecond Place: \"Trout\" by Griffin DeGroot from Central Minnesota Christian School will be displayed in Congresswoman Fischbach's office in Washington, D.C.\n\nHonorable Mention: \"Emerald Jade Green\" by Kerstyn Lindsey from Ada-Borup-West High School will be displayed in the Congresswoman's district office.\n\nHonorable Mention: \"Left Behind\" by Margo Klassen from Community Christian School will be displayed in the Congresswoman's district office.", 1, "2026-05-21T06:28:16Z", "2026-05-21T06:29:43Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/5/rep-fischbach", "Rep. Fischbach Op-Ed: E-15 is Fueling America\u2019s Future", "2026-05-19", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "For too long, a common-sense solution to lower gas prices and support American energy independence has been tied up in red tape. Families and farmers in Western Minnesota and across the country have been subjected to frustrating, outdated, and unnecessary regulations. The House of Representatives has taken a major step toward cutting that tape by passing H.R. 1346, the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, which included my language for permanent, nationwide, year-round E15.\n\nI was proud to lead the efforts through my seat on the Rules Committee for this bipartisan bill, which will provide the certainty that our agriculture and energy sectors deserve. We are finally moving past the era of temporary fixes and toward a future of long-term stability.\n\nUnder outdated regulations from the 1990s, E15 fuel was effectively banned in many parts of the country, including Minnesota, during the summer months. This summer ban is a direct hit to the American pocketbook. It limits consumer choice and drives up prices at the pump right when families are hitting the road for summer travel. By applying the same standards to E15 that already apply to standard E10 gasoline, this legislation provides the permanence and predictability that growers and consumers deserve. No more waiting on short-term emergency waivers that create confusion rather than progress.\n\nThe benefits of year-round E15 are clear. First, it is a lower-cost fuel option. Opening the market year-round is a proven way to lower gas prices and provide relief for hardworking Americans during times of global energy volatility.\n\nSecond, our rural communities are the backbone of America. In Western Minnesota, our corn growers are massive supporters of the biofuel industry, and they deserve a fair and consistent market for their products. This legislation ensures steady, predictable demand year-round, giving farmers the confidence they need to plan for the future.\n\nThird, ethanol is produced within American borders by American workers. Every gallon we blend is a gallon of oil we do not have to import from foreign countries. By leaning into domestic production, we are reinforcing our commitment to American-made energy.\n\nThe passage of HR 1346 in the House is a historic milestone, and I am proud to have helped deliver a permanent win for American drivers, American farmers, and American energy.", 1, "2026-05-20T06:27:31Z", "2026-05-20T06:28:54Z"], ["https://fischbach.house.gov/2026/5/rep-fischbach-led-the-effort-to-pass-permanent-year-round-e-15-on-the-house-floor", "Rep. Fischbach Led the Effort to Pass Permanent, Year-Round E-15 on the House Floor", "2026-05-19", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Michelle Fischbach", "F000470", "fischbach.house.gov", "fischbach", "https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) led an effort to ensure that year-round, nationwide, permanent E15 was included in H.R. 1346, the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. Last night, the House passed this historic legislation.\n\nCurrently, federal regulations restrict the sale of E-15 during the summer season. Rep. Fischbach\u2019s efforts will remove these barriers, establish a consistent national standard, and eliminate the need for annual emergency waivers from the EPA.\n\n\"For too long, our farmers and producers have been at the mercy of outdated regulations and 'emergency' waivers,\" said Rep. Fischbach. \"Western Minnesota's growers are essential to our nation's biofuel industry, and they have proven they are ready to provide a clean, American-made energy source. This bill will provide certainty for our rural economies, lower costs for families, and strengthen our national energy independence. I am incredibly proud to have supported this legislation and see it pass the House Floor.\"\n\nOutside Support\n\n\u201cAmerican families are asking for help, and today Rep. Fischbach delivered. The House\u2019s approval of year-round E15 brings us one step closer to lowering prices at the pump in Minnesota and across the U.S.,\u201d said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor.?\u201cWe\u2019re deeply grateful to biofuel champions like Congresswoman Fischbach for delivering lower gas prices to Minnesotans and for tirelessly working to secure this critical victory for year-round E15. We urge the Senate to take up this legislation right away\u2014the sooner this bill reaches the President\u2019s desk, the sooner we can deliver more savings to more Americans in every corner of the country.\u201d\n\nH.R. 1346 will provide long-term market certainty for corn growers and biofuel producers while offering American families a lower-cost option at the gas pump.", 1, "2026-05-20T06:27:31Z", "2026-05-20T06:28:54Z"], ["https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-highlights-eighth-district-business-house-small-business-showcase", "Stauber Highlights Eighth District Business at House Small Business Showcase", "2026-05-19", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Pete Stauber", "S001212", "stauber.house.gov", "stauber", "https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Recently, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) participated in the House Small Business Committee\u2019s 3rd Annual Small Business Showcase, held in the United States Capitol. At the invitation of Congressman Stauber, Bemidji Woolen Mills, an innovative small business from Minnesota\u2019s 8th Congressional District, was featured.\n\nBemidji Woolen Mills is a retail store and clothing manufacturer in Bemidji, Minnesota. This iconic company was started by Ira Preston Betchelder in 1920 and is now headed up by his great grandson, Bill Batchelder. Over the century this company has been in business, it has become an iconic staple not only in the Bemidji community, but globally. During the 2012 election campaign, Bemidji Woolen Mills vests were named as TIME Magazine\u2019s No. 15 Most Memorable Item, as presidential candidate Rick Santorum purchased 6,500 vests for his team. Other notables who have been seen wearing sweaters, vests or jackets that came from this business are South African President Nelson Mandela, comedian Billy Crystal, and actor John Goodman.\n\nCongressman Stauber stated, \u201cBemidji Woolen Mills embodies the resilience, craftsmanship, and community spirit that define America\u2019s small businesses. It was an honor to invite them to the Small Business Showcase to celebrate their success and highlight exactly who the House Small Business Committee is fighting for here in Washington, D.C. As a former small business owner, I understand firsthand the challenges entrepreneurs face every day, which is why I am proud to have delivered meaningful victories for Main Street businesses through the passage of the Working Families Tax Cuts legislation. I will continue fighting to ensure small businesses like Bemidji Woolen Mills have the opportunity to grow, create jobs, and strengthen communities across our country.\u201d\n\nOf his visit, Bill Batchelder stated, \u201cThe employees of Bemidji Woolen Mills and the Batchelder family were humbled, blessed, and thankful to be part of the Small Business Showcase in Washington D.C. For 106 years, we have been afforded the opportunity by our great State of Minnesota to operate a family-owned small business in historic downtown Bemidji, Minnesota.\n\n\u201cLooking to the future, we are concerned with the barriers to entry for future entrepreneurs: rules, regulations, taxes, zoning, etc. We need to look no further than northern Minnesota to see the incredible family businesses that have been created and have added so much to their communities and our state. Small town America is where entrepreneurs can thrive the best. How many individuals\u2019 dreams will come to fruition in basements, garages and backyards? Let's make it happen for today's generation.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/whip-emmer-tim-walz-dfl-block-life-changing-tax-cuts-for-minnesotans", "Whip Emmer: Tim Walz, DFL Block Life-Changing Tax Cuts for Minnesotans", "2026-05-18", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Tom Emmer", "E000294", "emmer.house.gov", "emmer", "https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) released a statement following the conclusion of the 2026 Minnesota legislative session, during which Tim Walz and Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) party officials blocked key provisions of the Working Families Tax Cuts from going into effect for hardworking Minnesota families.\n\n\u201cTim Walz and the DFL just blocked historic tax relief for hardworking Minnesotans for one reason and one reason only: they are sick with Trump Derangement Syndrome,\u201d said Whip Emmer. \u201cTens of thousands of tipped and overtime workers in Minnesota stood to keep their hard-earned pay thanks to the Republicans\u2019 Working Families Tax Cuts, but out-of-touch Leftists hate to see the American people win under President Trump\u2019s leadership. Make no mistake, Tim Walz and the DFL just sacrificed the freedom, prosperity, and success of Minnesotans on the altar of their radical, far-left base.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nPresident Trump signed the Working Families Tax Cuts into law on July 4, 2025. The Minnesota legislature and Governor Tim Walz failed to conform the state tax code to match that of the new federal law, denying massive wins for Minnesotans.\n\nMinnesota families and workers were estimated to win big thanks to provisions within the Working Families Tax Cuts:\n\nA typical family with two children in Minnesota could have seen a higher take-home pay of about $7,700 to $11,100, thanks to the bill.\n\nAround 4% of the labor force in Minnesota is employed in occupations that would likely benefit from the no taxes on tips provision of the bill.\n\nAround 24% of all employees in Minnesota regularly work overtime and could benefit from the no tax on overtime provision of the bill. An even larger 62% of workers in Minnesota are in occupations that are likely eligible for overtime and could also benefit.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-19T06:31:01Z", "2026-05-19T06:32:40Z"], ["https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-introduces-legislation-stop-fraud-federal-health-care-programs", "Stauber Introduces Legislation to Stop Fraud in Federal Health Care Programs", "2026-05-18", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Pete Stauber", "S001212", "stauber.house.gov", "stauber", "https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) introduced H.R. 8865, the Protecting Taxpayers from Fraudulent Providers Act to defend taxpayer dollars by preventing fraud in federal health care programs. Specifically, this bill permanently bars a person, company, clinic, contractor, or other organization convicted of stealing money and committing fraud in government health care organizations, such as Medicare, Medicaid, or CHIP, from ever participating in those programs again.\n\n\u201cFraud is rampant in federal programs across the country, as highlighted by the massive fraud scandal that recently rocked Minnesota,\u201d said Congressman Pete Stauber. \u201cIt has been infuriating to learn about the criminals who enriched themselves with expensive homes, luxury cars, and lavish vacations by stealing over $9 billion in taxpayer dollars meant to help the most vulnerable among us. Minnesotans \u2013 and all Americans \u2013 are fed up with this abuse and expect immediate action from the government responsible for safeguarding their hard-earned money. That\u2019s why I am proud to introduce the Protecting Taxpayers from Fraudulent Providers Act to ensure these critical programs can never again be exploited by bad actors.\u201d\n\nFollowing this fraud scandal, Congressman Stauber has introduced a number of bills to combat fraud and strengthen accountability in federal assistance programs. Most recently, he introduced the Stop Fraud by Somalia Act to strengthen penalties for childcare providers who exploit public programs, including serious immigration consequences for non-citizens.\n\nStauber\u2019s legislative actions align with broader federal initiatives established to combat fraud and restore confidence in government programs. Recently, the Trump administration announced the creation of an Anti-Fraud Task Force, led by Vice President JD Vance, to crack down on fraud nationwide.\n\nSo far, they have executed 22 search warrants against fraudulent day care centers in Minnesota, including the \u201cQuality Learing Center.\u201d Alongside this aggressive prosecution, the Task Force is working to prevent fraud before taxpayer funds are distributed by increasing scrutiny of payments and ensuring claims are legitimate and lawful before approval.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/05/15/finstad-sorensen-introduce-the-national-guard-relief-act-ahead-of-armed-forces-day/", "Finstad, Sorensen Introduce the National Guard Relief Act Ahead of Armed Forces Day", "2026-05-15", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17), members of the House Armed Services Committee, introduced the National Guard Relief Act, legislation that would designate the National Guard Relief Foundation as a military welfare society under Title 10 of United States Code, improving the foundation\u2019s ability to assist more National Guard Members as they continue to serve the country. Military welfare societies are service-specific non-profit organizations that work alongside the Department of Defense to provide servicemembers and their families with emergency, financial, and community services.\n\n\u201cUnder Title 10 currently, the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard each have their own military welfare societies, but not our National Guard,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cThe National Guard Relief Act would bridge this gap by adding the National Guard Relief Foundation to the list of Military Welfare Societies and ensuring our National Guard Members and their families find relief in times of need.\u201d\n\nFinstad continued, \u201cOur National Guard Members work tirelessly to serve their communities, states, and country, and deserve to be eligible for assistance under all conditions. I\u2019m proud to introduce this legislation in support of National Guard Soldiers, Airmen, and their family members.\u201d\n\n\u201cIllinois National Guard members and their families make incredible sacrifices for our state and our country. I am so proud to help introduce this bipartisan bill to help ensure that no National Guard family goes unsupported during a time of crisis,\u201d said Rep. Sorensen.\n\n\u201cThe introduction of this legislation is a significant step forward for our National Guard members and their families. Officially recognizing the National Guard Relief Foundation as an official Military Relief Organization helps ensure Guardsmen receive the same level of support and consideration long afforded to their active-duty counterparts. Our Guard families answer the call at home and abroad, often balancing unique challenges tied to state and federal service. This designation will strengthen the Foundation\u2019s ability to expand assistance programs, reach more service members in times of hardship, and provide critical support when it matters most. EANGUS proudly supports this effort because taking care of our people and their families must always remain a national priority,\u201d said CMSgt Josh J. Baker, President of the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States.\n\n\u201cThe National Guard has stood watch over America through war, disaster, crisis, and uncertainty while answering every call without hesitation. The National Guard Relief Act is more than legislation or a \u201cnice to have\u201d. It is a declaration that the families who sacrifice beside our service members will no longer stand alone. Supporting those who defend this nation is not charity, it is a solemn national obligation. A country that relies on its Guard in every hour of need must ensure the Guard can rely on its country in theirs,\u201d said Daniel B. Reilly, Chair of the National Guard Relief Foundation.\n\nBackground:", 1, "2026-05-16T06:05:00Z", "2026-05-16T06:06:37Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/05/13/finstad-releases-statement-following-house-authorization-of-year-round-nationwide-e15/", "Finstad Releases Statement Following House Authorization of Year-Round, Nationwide E15", "2026-05-13", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), member of the House Agriculture Committee, released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1346, the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025, legislation which would authorize the year-round, nationwide sale of E15 fuel:\n\n\u201cThroughout my time in Congress, I have remained steadfast in my commitment to delivering year-round, nationwide E15 for our farmers, rural economies, and consumers,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cI am extremely proud of our work to pass this commonsense, win-win solution that will provide much-needed certainty to our fuel supply chain. I urge my Senate colleagues to do the same and quickly pass this legislation.\u201d", 1, "2026-05-14T06:11:37Z", "2026-05-14T06:12:56Z"], ["https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-announces-2026-congressional-art-competition-winner", "Emmer Announces 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winner", "2026-05-12", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Tom Emmer", "E000294", "emmer.house.gov", "emmer", "https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Congressman Emmer announced Marta LaFond of Buffalo as the winner of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Minnesota\u2019s Sixth Congressional District.\n\n\u201cThe Congressional Art Competition is a great way to celebrate the visual arts and to recognize the artistic abilities of high school students across the country. I want to congratulate Marta on winning this year\u2019s Congressional Art Competition with her acrylic piece, As Kingfishers Catch Fire. We\u2019re excited to see her work displayed in the U.S. Capitol and welcome her to Washington, D.C.,\u201d Congressman Emmer said.\n\nMarta is a junior at Holy Spirit Academy in Monticello, MN. Her acrylic piece, As Kingfishers Catch Fire, was selected as the winning submission from Minnesota\u2019s Sixth Congressional District.\n\nThe Congressional Art Competition is an annual competition for high school students across the United States. The winning pieces from each district will be hung by the Architect of the Capitol in the tunnel connecting the U.S. Capitol and the Cannon House Office Building for a year. The winner from each Congressional District receives the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. to meet with their Representative and see their artwork displayed in the Halls of Congress. You can read more about the competition here.", 1, "2026-05-13T06:12:22Z", "2026-05-13T06:13:52Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/05/12/finstad-calls-on-dot-to-support-united-airlines-service-between-rochester-and-chicago-ohare-international-airports/", "Finstad Calls on DOT to Support United Airlines Service Between Rochester and Chicago O\u2019Hare International Airports", "2026-05-12", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) sent a letter to the Secretary of the Department of Transportation (DOT), Sean Duffy, and the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Bryan Bedford, calling on the DOT and FAA to support United Airlines service between Rochester International Airport (RST) and Chicago O\u2019Hare International Airport (ORD) as soon as possible.\n\n\u201cBy launching United Airlines flight service between Rochester and Chicago O\u2019Hare, Rochester and its surrounding communities will be connected to 34 unique destination flights,\u201d said Rep. Finstad. \u201cThis is not only important to the economic development of southern Minnesota but would also help improve health care access for those in our communities.\u201d\n\nFinstad continued, \u201cMinnesota\u2019s First District is lucky and proud to have Mayo Clinic in our backyard. With the continued investment and expansion of the hospital on the horizon through their Bold. Forward. Unbound. initiative, reliable air service is essential to ensuring patients and employees have access to time-sensitive medical assistance. I\u2019m hopeful that Secretary Duffy and Administrator Bedford will quickly authorize United\u2019s service from RST to ORD, expanding transportation options for residents across southeastern Minnesota and neighboring areas.\u201d\n\nBackground:", 1, "2026-05-13T06:12:22Z", "2026-05-13T06:13:52Z"], ["https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-hosts-law-enforcement-roundtable-with-us-attorney-daniel-rosen-in-blaine-ahead-of-national-police-week", "Emmer Hosts Law Enforcement Roundtable with U.S. Attorney Daniel Rosen in Blaine Ahead of National Police Week", "2026-05-08", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Tom Emmer", "E000294", "emmer.house.gov", "emmer", "https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "BLAINE, MN \u2013 Ahead of National Police Week, which starts on Sunday, Congressman Emmer and Daniel Rosen, the U.S. Attorney for Minnesota, hosted a roundtable with sheriffs, police chiefs, and other law enforcement officials of the Sixth Congressional District on Thursday. Congressman Emmer had the opportunity to hear from law enforcement about their needs, ongoing fraud concerns in the state, and how Congress can best support law enforcement.\n\n\u201cAs we near the beginning of Police Week, there is no better time to get together with local peace officers and say \u2018thank you.\u2019 These men and women are the best of the best,\u201d said Congressman Emmer. \u201cThey put their lives on the line to protect you and me, and despite constant attacks from the woke leftist mob, these heroes go out every day to keep us safe. We\u2019re proud to back the blue.\u201d\n\n\u201cI thank House Majority Whip Tom Emmer for his strong support in combating fraud against Minnesota taxpayers,\u201d said U.S. Attorney Rosen. \u201cI am grateful for the excellent relationships between the U.S. Attorney\u2019s Office and law enforcement agencies across Minnesota that are critical to rooting out and prosecuting fraud.\u201d\n\nRoundtable participants included Wright County Sheriff Sean Deringer, Sherburne County Sheriff\u2019s Office Chief Deputy Steve Doran, Blaine Police Department Chief of Police Brian Podany, Blaine Police Department Deputy Chief of Police Joe Gerhard, Elk River Police Department Chief of Police David Kuhnly, Sartell Police Department Chief of Police Brandon Silgjord, Anoka County Sheriff Brad Wise, North Central High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Deputy Director Kent Bailey, and Anoka County Sheriff\u2019s Office Chief Deputy Bill Jacobson.\n\nIn the roundtable, they discussed the need for cooperation between the U.S. Attorney\u2019s office and local law enforcement agencies to best address crime, including increased gang violence and drug trafficking. This coordination will also help tackle the rampant fraud in Minnesota.\n\nBackground\n\nCongressman Emmer has a long history of supporting law enforcement and ensuring they have the resources and support they need.\n\nIn 2026, Congressman Emmer urged the House Appropriations Committee to provide funding for the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program to provide states with funding for criminal justice initiatives, including grants for law enforcement, prosecution and courts, and drug treatment programs.\n\nIn 2025 and 2026, Congressman Tom Emmer sent a letter to the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS) urging that language fully funding the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act (LEMHWA) Program be included in the Fiscal Year 2026 and Fiscal Year 2027 CJS government funding bills.\n\nIn 2025, House Republicans secured a no tax on overtime pay provision in the Working Families Tax Cut Act. Many law enforcement officers work overtime hours, and with officer recruitment and retention remaining a top challenge for police departments, the no tax on overtime provision will help alleviate the struggle. Over 25 million filers claimed this provision on Tax Day 2026.\n\nIn 2024, Congressman Emmer helped secure federal resources for law enforcement to target illicit drug trafficking. Both officers and our communities are safer because of this vital funding.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-09T06:00:32Z", "2026-05-09T06:02:31Z"], ["https://finstad.house.gov/2026/05/08/finstad-announces-2026-congressional-art-competition-winner/", "Finstad Announces 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winner", "2026-05-08", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MN", "Brad Finstad", "F000475", "finstad.house.gov", "finstad", "https://finstad.house.gov/media", "scraper", "ROCHESTER, MN \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) announced his selection of \u201c250 Years of Freedom\u201d by Cheyenne Klockziem, as the winner of this year\u2019s First District Congressional Art Competition.\n\nCheyenne is a sophomore at Nicollet High School. The winner from each congressional district will receive two roundtrip tickets to Washington, D.C., compliments of Southwest Airlines, to attend the official ceremony later this year honoring the Congressional Art Competition winners from across the country. Cheyenne\u2019s artwork will hang in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. for one year, representing Minnesota\u2019s First District.\n\nFirst Place \u2013 \u201c250 Years of Freedom\u201d by Cheyenne Klockziem\n\nArtist\u2019s Description: \u201cThis is a vibrant, highly detailed color pencil drawing celebrating America\u2019s 250th Anniversary of Independence. The title, boldly lettered at the top, reads: \u201c250 Years of Freedom\u201d with a subtle reminder of the years our country included (1776-2026). A majestic bald eagle dominated the composition, captured mid-flight and soaring powerfully from right to left across the page. One outstretched wing is dramatically and respectfully styled with the American flag motif, complete with 13 red and white stripes and 50 stars. The eagle flies high above a sweeping patriotic landscape that tells the story of American freedom, the Declaration of Independence to Mount Rushmore, the iconic Iwo Jima flag-raising scene from World War II, and the Statue of Liberty.\u201d", 1, "2026-05-13T06:12:22Z", "2026-05-13T06:13:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 2350, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"chamber\" = :p0 and \"party\" = :p1 and \"state\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "House", "p1": "Republican", "p2": 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