{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"House\" and year = 2005 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-calls-on-bush-to-turn-over-info-on-nsa-spying", "Barbara Lee Calls on Bush to Turn Over Info on NSA Spying", "2005-12-20", "2005", "2005-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.20.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Calls on Bush to Turn Over Info on NSA Spying \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)    In response to news that President Bush had authorized warrantless NSA spying on Americans, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) introduced a privileged resolution, calling on the administration to provide to Congress all information related to such surveillance, including the names of those targeted (text of the resolution follows the release).  Lee also responded to Bush administration claims that the warrantless NSA eavesdropping authorized by the President is permitted by the September 14, 2001 vote to authorize the use of force in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks.  Lee was the only member of Congress to vote against the resolution.  The following is her statement:  On September 14th, 2001, in the wake of the terrible terrorist attacks in New York and Washington, DC, Congress was asked to approve a resolution that gave the President a virtually unlimited authority to make war.    Specifically, the resolution gave the President the authority to \"use all necessary and appropriate force against those nations, organizations, or persons he determines planned, authorized, committed, or aided the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001, or harbored such organizations or persons, in order to prevent any future acts of international terrorism against the United States by such nations, organizations or persons.\"  In other words, he could wage war when and where he wanted, we just needed to trust him.  I voted against that resolution because I was convinced then, as I am today, that Congress had no business authorizing an unspecified war against an unspecified enemy for an unspecified period of time.  I also voted against that resolution because I was concerned the President and his administration would abuse the broad authority it granted, which is effectively what they have done.  The administration is now using this resolution to justify willfully dismissing the law and spying on Americans.  This case of this spying raises the grave question of what other laws the President may have broken invoking this imagined authority.  The disdain the President has shown for the Constitution, for the document that enshrines our fundamental liberties and freedoms, is breathtaking.  He must be held accountable for this gross abuse of power.  America has historically stood against this kind of lawlessness and authoritarianism in the world, and I fear that the President's actions have undermined our nation's credibility and standing in the world.   ###   Text of H.Res.641:  Requesting the President to provide to the House of Representatives certain documents in his possession relating to electronic surveillance without search warrants on individuals in the United States.  Resolved, That the President is requested to provide to the House of Representatives, not later than 14 days after the date of the adoption of this resolution, all documents in the possession of the President, including telephone and electronic mail records, logs, calendars, minutes, memoranda, and advisory legal opinions on, and identities of all individuals subject to, electronic surveillance without search warrants by the National Security Agency within the United States since September 11, 2001.     \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-introduces-bill-to-require-poverty-impact-reports-accountability-is-third-component-of-legislative-poverty-package", "Barbara Lee Introduces Bill to Require Poverty Impact Reports Accountability is Third Component of Legislative \"Poverty Package\"", "2005-12-20", "2005", "2005-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.20.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Introduces Bill to Require Poverty Impact Reports Accountability is Third Component of Legislative \"Poverty Package\" \n\t\t\t\r\n(Washington, DC)  As the House of Representatives wrapped up its legislative work for the year, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) introduced the third and final bill in a package of legislation aimed at combating poverty, a measure that will require Congress to report on the poverty impact of its legislative activities.\r\n\r\nWe have all seen the devastating impact that turning a blind eye to poverty has caused, and it is clear that we cannot afford to continue to look away, said Lee. Congress needs to be accountable. We cannot proceed blindly, hoping that Congress' actions aren't hurting people. We need to know exactly what the poverty impact of our actions will be.\r\n\r\n  In much the same way that the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) is currently required to issue a report on the budgetary impact of proposed legislation, Lee's bill, H.R. 4600, will require the CBO to analyze legislation and report on what impact it will have on low income people.\r\n\r\nThe aftermath of Katrina has shown the American people's deep compassion and concern for others, yet our legislation is often at odds with our values as a nation, said Lee. Will a certain bill increase the growing level of poverty in our country? What will its impact be on the lives and livelihoods of low income people? We need a clear way to measure this impact beforehand, because we have seen the tragic results of trying to measure it after the fact.\r\n\r\nIn addition to creating Congressional accountability on the issue, Lee's package of poverty bills is also designed to call for leadership and the establishment of priorities. H.Con.Res. 234 requires the President to submit to Congress a plan for the elimination of poverty. H.Con.Res. 282 rolls back the tax cuts for the wealthiest five percent of Americans and dedicates the funds to poverty elimination programs.\r\n  \r\n  ###\r\n \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-introduces-hiv/aids-emergency-hurricane-relief-act", "Barbara Lee Introduces HIV/AIDS Emergency Hurricane Relief Act", "2005-12-20", "2005", "2005-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.20.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Introduces HIV/AIDS Emergency Hurricane Relief Act \n\t\t\t\r\n\r\n(Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) introduced legislation aimed at ensuring continuing treatment and care for people living with HIV/AIDS who have been displaced by recent hurricanes, as the House of Representatives prepared to go into recess for the holidays.For people living with AIDS, access to medication and treatment is a life or death issue, said Lee. From a public health perspective, we need to prevent the disruption of medication from creating drug resistance. We need to ensure that there is a coherent policy for protecting the most vulnerable and preventing a public health crisis.\r\n  While making a small portion of the people displaced by hurricanes Katrina and Rita, people living with AIDS are among the most vulnerable. Lack of access to medication and treatment, stress and inadequate shelter or food are potentially life threatening considerations for people living with compromised immune systems. There is also concern in the public health community that lack of access to anti-retroviral treatments may lead to drug resistant forms of the virus.\r\nThe HIV/AIDS Emergency Hurricane Relief Act, H.R. 4633, authorizes $500 million for a comprehensive, focused response that includes:\r\n \r\n  Creating an HIV/AIDS Emergency Response Coordinator in the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) responsible for coordinating between HHS, FEMA, HUD, agencies of the Public Health Service and state and local governments to ensure the provision of medical care and treatment, including housing and supportive services;\r\n   Establishing cooperative agreements and supplying grants to public and private entities that provide care, treatment, housing, dental and mental health care and support services;\r\n  Supporting the rebuilding of the service provider infrastructure in hurricane affected areas;\r\n  Promoting a public awareness campaign to get people into treatment and avoid HIV drug resistance;\r\n  Exempting affected states from requirements to match Ryan White funds in order to receive federal assistance.\r\n \r\nThe Katrina and Rita damaged regions rank as some of the country's most adversely affected areas in terms of HIV/AIDS cases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Texas ranked 4th and Louisiana ranked 10th in the number of reported AIDS cases in 2002. Specifically, the New Orleans region had the highest number of newly diagnosed cases and the second highest HIV/AIDS case rate in the state, while Baton Rouge claimed the region's highest rate in 2002. In 2001, Harris County, Texas had the largest number of reported AIDS cases.\r\nThese HIV/AIDS rates directly correlate to the high number of individuals receiving AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), CARE Act and Medicaid assistance. In June 2003, Texas ranked 4th and Louisiana ranked 9th in the number of people enrolled in ADAP. In 2004, Texas received over $131 million in CARE funds ranking it 4th in the amount of funding it received, while Louisiana ranked 12th. Medicaid assistance in these states is also very large with Texas ranking 3rd and Louisiana ranking 12th in the number of enrollees as of June 2004.\r\nLee's accomplishments in promoting effective, bipartisan measures to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS and bring treatment to the infected have earned her recognition both at home and abroad as a leader in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Lee was a leader in the bipartisan effort to designate $15 billion for the prevention, care, and treatment of HIV/AIDS, TB, and malaria. She authored the bill to establish the framework for the Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS as well as recently passed legislation to address the needs of orphans and vulnerable children, many of whom are victims of the HIV/AIDS pandemic.\r\n###  \r\n\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-responds-to-latest-bush-speech-on-iraq", "Barbara Lee Responds to Latest Bush Speech on Iraq", "2005-12-17", "2005", "2005-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) released the following statement in response to President Bush's fifth speech on Iraq in recent weeks:\"President Bush now says the insurgents are feeling a tightening noose,' but after hearing the administration say that the they knew where the weapons of mass destruction were, that our troops would be greeted as liberators, that the mission was accomplished, that we were turning the corner,' that the insurgency was in its last throes,' I'm not sure why he thinks the American people will believe him now. \"Does the President expect victory in five years? In ten years or twenty? How much money, how many American lives will it take to achieve this victory? Half a trillion dollars? A trillion? Five thousand American lives? 10,000? Are we going to maintain military bases in Iraq permanently? \"The President condemns artificial timetables,' but there is nothing unreasonable or artificial about the American people expecting concrete answers from the President on what it will take to accomplish his plan. His refusal to answer these basic questions means that he doesn't know, or he is afraid to say. And that is unacceptable. \"Given the 9/11 commission's failing report card for the Bush administration in meeting our pressing homeland security needs, I am very concerned that the President's obsession with rhetorical victory in Iraq will prove to be a defeat in the larger effort to protect our nation against terrorist attack. \"Withdrawing our troops quickly and safely from Iraq and rededicating our military and financial resources to our pressing national security priorities is the victory that the American people are looking for and deserve.\" ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-slams-sham-gop-iraq-victory-vote", "Barbara Lee Slams Sham GOP Iraq Victory Vote", "2005-12-16", "2005", "2005-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) voted today against H.Res. 612, a Republican resolution that was offered as an attempt to portray Democrats as divided on the issue of Iraq prior to the elections in 2006.  The following is the statement she released in response to the resolution:  This Republican resolution is another politically motivated sham that is designed to hide the fact that, for all his talk about victory,' the President can't answer some very simple questions about his so-called plan.' Does the President expect this victory in five years?  In ten years or twenty? How much money, how many American lives will it take to achieve this victory?  Half a trillion dollars?  A trillion?  Five Thousand American lives?  10,000?  Are we going to maintain military bases in Iraq permanently? The President condemns artificial timetables,' but there is nothing unreasonable or artificial about the American people expecting concrete answers from the President on what it will take to accomplish his plan.  His refusal to answer these basic questions means that he doesn't know, or he is afraid to say.  And that is unacceptable. We commend the people of Iraq for their elections, and express our sincere hopes for the government it will create.  We also commend our troops for their valiant efforts.   But we also recognize 80 percent of Iraqis oppose the presence of coalition forces, and that our troops have become the focus and the rallying point for the insurgency. We must make it absolutely clear that there will be no permanent occupation, which is why I have introduced a resolution to prevent the establishment of permanent military bases in Iraq.\r\n As Representative Murtha has made clear, we can accomplish no more in Iraq militarily.  Victory in Iraq means withdrawing our troops quickly and safely. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-inserts-fair-housing-provisions-in-katrina-relief", "Barbara Lee Inserts Fair Housing Provisions in Katrina Relief", "2005-12-15", "2005", "2005-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    The House Financial Services Committee today approved an amendment to Katrina relief legislation offered by Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) that would increase funding for enforcement of fair housing laws and for counseling for families in temporary housing and shelters. These provisions are critical in guaranteeing that hurricane survivors are educated about their housing options and have a fair and equal opportunity for affordable housing opportunities when returning to the Gulf, said Lee.\nLee's amendment to H.R. 4100, the Louisiana Recovery Corporation Act, would increase funding and resources available to the Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) Office of Fair Housing in order to enforce non-discrimination and fair housing practices, particularly in the Gulf region.  The amendment authorizes funding for hiring and training Katrina survivors to work with HUD's regional offices to enforce fair housing laws and for providing counseling and assistance for affected families living in temporary housing to obtain a permanent residence.\nLee also worked to ensure that elements of the Congressional Black Caucus Katrina relief bill were included, specifically $2.5 billion in funding for emergency housing vouchers for people by Hurricane Katrina.  \n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-speaks-out-against-gop-immigration-bill", "Barbara Lee Speaks Out Against GOP Immigration Bill", "2005-12-15", "2005", "2005-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) spoke out against a controversial Republican immigration bill during debate on the measure in the House today.  The following is her statement: Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to this un-American attempt at so-called immigration reform.   At best, this legislation is unbalanced, harsh and unfair.  This bill criminalizes millions of hard-working people, simply for being undocumented. It would turn local law enforcement into deputies of the Border Patrol, and innocent people will be needlessly scrutinized and jailed, and I can only imagine how this irresponsible provision will affect racial profiling of Latinos and other minorities.  This bill also ignores due process and would expand the government's ability to keep non-citizens locked up behind bars if they cannot be deported to their native countries.  Jailed immigrants will lose their ability to appeal a deportation order. Mr. Speaker, these are only a few reasons why this bill makes no sense for America.     Let's address the real issues of immigration reform that include a clear path to citizenship and common-sense protections for our borders.    We cannot and must not forget the undeniable history that we have as a nation of immigrants, and the contributions immigrants have had on our economy, our diversity, and our way of life.   This bill flies in the face of that history and should be rejected.\r\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-opposes-extension-of-the-patriot-act-blasts-big-brother-attack", "Barbara Lee Opposes Extension of the PATRIOT Act, Blasts \"Big Brother Attack\"", "2005-12-14", "2005", "2005-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.14.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Opposes Extension of the PATRIOT Act, Blasts \"Big Brother Attack\" \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)  Calling it another Big Brother attack, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) spoke out against the measure to reauthorize, expand and extend controversial elements of the USA PATRIOT Act during debate on the House floor today. Her statement follows: I rise in strong opposition to the Conference report for H.R. 3199, the reauthorization of this unpatriotic act. We should be repealing these undemocratic provisions, not expanding government's reach into the private lives of the American people. Since 2001, the Patriot Act has been used more than 150 times to secretly search private homes. And nearly 90% of those cases had nothing to do with terrorism. Americans have rejected provisions included in this legislation, like sneak and peak searches, national security letters and roving John Doe' wire taps. Under this renewal we will see more of the same. Private residences, libraries, businesses, medical records  not even your DNA  are safe from the Patriot Act. I now understand why many have called this bill yet another Big Brother' attack. Requiring an A' on the 9/11 Commission recommendations, instead of D's and F's, is how we protect the American people from terrorist attacks, not taking away our civil liberties, which this unpatriotic bill does. Preserving medical privacy, the right to read, and Congressional oversight should not be partisan issues. Our constituents deserve better. I hope that we all vote no on this rule and vote no on this very UNPATRIOTIC Patriot Act. \r\n \r\n\t###\r\n \r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-welcomes-faith-leaders-call-for-a-moral-budget-scores-of-faithful-protest-budget-cuts-on-the-steps-of-capitol-office-building", "Barbara Lee Welcomes Faith Leaders Call for a Moral Budget Scores of Faithful Protest Budget Cuts on the Steps of Capitol Office Building", "2005-12-13", "2005", "2005-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) addressed a group of more than 200 faith leaders, who braved the cold on Capitol Hill today to perform civil disobedience to protest cuts in Medicaid, student loans and foodstamps and to call for a moral budget. Who better than you, who serve on the front lines, who feed the hungry, who clothe the naked, who house the homeless, to tell Congress about the impact of this immoral budget on our families and our communities, Lee told the assembled.  You recognize that the priorities reflected in our budget are not a partisan issue, but an issue of who we are as a nation, and what are values are.  We know that the budget Congress is considering is, quite frankly, immoral, and it does not reflect our values. Lee has worked to make poverty a priority in Congress in the wake of hurricane Katrina, developing a package of legislation to focus leadership, create accountability and establish priorities on the issue.  She thanked those in attendance for their work for a more moral budget. As a nation, we believe in equality, and in opportunity, but belief, in and of itself, is not enough.  We must work to make it so, said Lee and cited James 2 14-17. What good is it, my friends, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.  ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/lee-report-documents-ongoing-failure-in-katrina-response", "Lee: Report Documents Ongoing Failure in Katrina Response", "2005-12-12", "2005", "2005-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.12.05\n\t\t\t Lee: Report Documents Ongoing Failure in Katrina Response \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) renewed calls for immediate aid for survivors and increased accountability and oversight in light of a report released today, documenting the ongoing governmental failure in response to hurricane Katrina. This report makes it clear that, three months after the Bush administration botched the immediate response to this catastrophe, Republicans in Congress are prepared to turn their backs on Katrina survivors and the Gulf Coast and walk away, said Lee.The report, Katrina: More Than Three Months Later, issued by the office of House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco), documents not only the government's failure in the immediate response to Katrina, but the ongoing failure of Republican lawmakers on Capitol Hill to meet the needs of Katrina survivors, to clearly outline federal aid in rebuilding, to manage and oversee Katrina-related contract and to appoint an independent commission to investigate the governments failed response to the disaster.Lee has been a vocal critic of the administration's response to the hurricane, calling for action to address the structural problems of poverty and race that contributed to the disaster and introducing a package of bills designed to address poverty. She also helped in the creation of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Katrina relief bill, H.R. 4197, assisting with the section dealing with housing, and writing the section on poverty.###KATRINA: MORE THAN THREE MONTHS LATER Executive Summary Republicans Failed in the Immediate Response to Katrina Many current and former FEMA officials contend that disaster preparedness and response have been severely undermined over the last four years under the Bush Administration. It's such an irony I hate to say it, but we have less capability today than we did on September 11,' said a veteran FEMA official involved in hurricane response. (Washington Post, 9/4/05) As a result, as Americans witnessed on their television sets, when Katrina struck, FEMA failed to adequately address the needs of hurricane victims. For days, there were tens of thousands of people in New Orleans who failed to get the food, water, medicine and evacuation assistance that they desperately needed.  Republicans Have Failed to Meet the Needs of Katrina Families, Small Businesses, and Communities Three and a half months after Katrina, Congress has yet to enact a clear housing plan for the hundreds of thousands of Katrina survivors. Furthermore, thousands of survivors are still living in tents and shelters  waiting for promised trailers that have not appeared. Many Katrina families may also lose their rental assistance by the end of December. The needs of small businesses are also not being met; only about 5 percent of small business disaster loan applications have so far been approved. Also, the GOP Congress has denied Katrina-impacted communities the same ability to obtain the loan forgiveness that communities impacted by a disaster have received in the past.  Republicans Have Failed on Rebuilding More than three months after Katrina, Republicans have failed to provide an outline of what support the federal government will provide in rebuilding. As the Washington Post (11/21/05) has recently reported, It is yet to be determined just how much of a role the federal government will play in picking up the tab [on rebuilding].  State and local officials say they are growing increasingly concerned that the federal government will not end up putting in the kind of money needed to rebuild the region.  Republicans Have Failed In Managing Katrina Contracts  Leading to Waste, Fraud and Abuse In awarding Katrina contracts, the Bush Administration has adopted the same pattern of no-bid and limited-bid contracts awarded on the basis of cronyism, rather than experience or local expertise, that it used in Iraq. All ten companies with the largest Katrina contracts are located outside the Gulf Coast region, most are politically connected, and most got their work after a limited bidding process. There's no doubt, no question, there's going to be fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement [in Katrina contracts]  there already has been, Comptroller General David Walker, head of the Government Accountability Office, told Knight Ridder. Republicans Have Failed to Create Independent Commission to Study Katrina Response  National public opinion polls show that the vast majority of the American public supports an independent commission to investigate the failed federal response to Katrina. An independent Katrina commission would be modeled on the highly-successful 9/11 Commission. Unfortunately, the GOP leadership has blocked such a commission. Instead, the Leadership created a partisan select committee, where Democrats would not have the ability to subpoena their own witnesses. As a result, Democrats have refused to appoint members to this sham committee. \n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/lee-bush-admits-case-for-war-was-a-sham", "Lee: Bush Admits Case for War Was a Sham", "2005-12-11", "2005", "2005-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", null, 0, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-holds-town-hall-meetings-on-medicare-prescription-drug-plan", "Barbara Lee Holds Town Hall Meetings on Medicare Prescription Drug Plan", "2005-12-10", "2005", "2005-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Oakland, CA) - Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) held town hall meetings in Oakland and Castro Valley on Saturday to help East Bay seniors understand and enroll in the Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Benefit Program. The new Medicare prescription drug benefit and the proliferation of different plans have caused quite a bit of confusion, and my constituents deserve the facts, said Lee.  These town hall meetings are designed for seniors to meet with experts and get the facts on what plan best serves their needs and how to enroll.\nExperts from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), AARP, Families USA and Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) were on hand to explain the sometimes confusing new federal drug benefit and to provide advice for local seniors on what plan may be best for them and assistance in enrolling in them.\nOpen enrollment for Medicare Part D began on November 15th and coverage will take effect on January 1, 2006.  People who sign up after enrollment closes on May 15th, 2006 may have to pay penalties.\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/lee-calls-for-epa-enforcement-of-polluter-pays-provision-enforcement-might-have-prevented-superfund-site-in-oakland", "Lee Calls for EPA Enforcement of Polluter Pays Provision Enforcement Might Have Prevented Superfund Site in Oakland", "2005-12-09", "2005", "2005-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.09.05\n\t\t\t Lee Calls for EPA Enforcement of Polluter Pays Provision Enforcement Might Have Prevented Superfund Site in Oakland \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)  On the eve of the 25th anniversary of the legislation that created the federal Superfund, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) sent a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), calling on the agency to enforce provisions of the law that would ensure that polluters pay for the cost of environmental cleanup resulting from their operations. Twenty five years ago, Congress passed legislation to ensure that polluters would pay for environmental cleanup, and it is long overdue for the EPA to start enforcing that law and make sure that taxpayers stop getting stuck with the bill, said Lee. Lee's letter, which was signed by Representatives Case (D-HI), Farr (D-CA), Carson (D-IN), Hinchey (D-NY), McDermott (D-WA), McCollum (D-MN), Payne (D-NJ), Grijalva (D-AZ), Kucinich (D-OH) and DeLauro (D-CT), calls on EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson to implement provisions of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), signed into law by President Jimmy Carter on December 11th, 1980, that require businesses that handle hazardous materials to maintain financial assurances, proving their ability to pay for the clean up of any environmental contamination that results from their operations. According to a report issued in August by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), [b]y its inaction on this mandate, EPA has continued to expose the Superfund program, and ultimately the U.S. taxpayers, to potentially enormous cleanup costs at facilities that currently are not required to have financial assurances for cleanup costs. If this statute had been enforced, it is quite possible that we would not have a Superfund site in West Oakland, said Lee. EPA action on existing law would not only ensure that polluters pay for cleanup, but provide incentives for business to be more environmentally friendly and avoid pollution in the first place. Lee was referring to the AMCO site, at 1401 Third St. in Oakland, which was officially added to the National Priorities list of the nation's most contaminated sites on September 29, 2003. From the 1960s to 1989, the AMCO Chemical Company operated a chemical distribution facility at the site whose operations left behind significant environmental contamination. According to the Federal Register, after a construction crew noted strange odors during excavation near the site in 1995, a subsurface investigation by California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), DC Metals, and EPA revealed the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including vinyl chloride in soil, soil gas, and shallow ground water at the site. According to the EPA, there are 21 sites Oakland that are listed for consideration for Superfund cleanup. Had the EPA carried out its statutory authority to implement financial assurance requirements for businesses that handle or produce hazardous materials, companies like AMCO would have been forced to take out financial guarantees (insurance, bonds, etc) based on the potential for their releasing pollution in the local environment. In the event that they went out of businesses, the guarantee would remain available to pay for the cost of cleanup, relieving taxpayers of the burden and potentially speeding the process. Currently, many businesses are able to avoid the cost of environmental cleanup by declaring bankruptcy. Because the EPA has no system to track the businesses that have outstanding environmental cleanup obligations, they are severely limited in their capacity to pursue the businesses during the bankruptcy process, and taxpayers have had to foot the bill as the result. Enforcement of the financial assurance statute would require businesses to obtain insurance and report to EPA, allowing the agency to track potential polluters and preventing the use of bankruptcy to avoid cleanup costs. Financial assurance measures would also provide an incentive for businesses to implement environmentally friendly practices in order to reduce their liability. Lee's call comes at a time when chronic funding shortfalls are impeding Superfund cleanup progress. There are currently over 1,300 sites listed, or proposed for listing, on the National Priorities List of the nation's most contaminated sites under the Superfund program. Recent studies estimate that on average it will cost $140 million to clean up each of the 142 largest Superfund sites, for a total of almost $20 billion. According to a study released by Resources for the Future in 2001, adjusting for projected inflation, the Superfund program was estimated to need $1,690.8 million for fiscal year 2006. This year Congress appropriated only $1.2 billion for the Superfund for fiscal year 2006.\r\n ### \r\nClick here for a copy of the letter Here's the information from the EPA on the AMCO site in Oakland from the Federal Register. It was officially added to the list on April 29th, 2003. Conditions at Proposal (April 30, 2003): The AMCO Chemical site (AMCO) is part of a 0.83-acre property at 1414 Third Street in a mixed residential and light industrial area of Oakland, California. The property is bordered on the north by a vacant lot, on the west by residences, on the east by Nelson Mandela Parkway, and on the south by Third Street. A recently constructed elevated portion of the Interstate-880 (I-880) freeway is located immediately across Third Street from the property. The property (at 1401 Third Street) was historically occupied by Bobo's Junkyard. From the 1960s to 1989, the AMCO site was occupied by AMCO Chemical Company. AMCO operated a chemical distribution facility that included a warehouse, railroad spur, above-ground tanks, underground tanks, and drums used to transfer and store raw materials. In July 1988, the Oakland Fire Department observed \"leaking/rotting drums\" on the property. A subsequent emergency response investigation by Alameda County and the U.S. Coast Guard revealed greater than 100 full and empty 5- and 55-gallon weathered drums in an open area behind AMCO Chemical's main building. Stenciled labels on the drums indicated that the contents included acetone; 1,1,1-trichloroethane (1,1,1-TCA); methyl ethyl ketone; and dry-cleaning solvent. From 1989 to November 1998, DC Metals operated a scrap metal yard on the site. Cable Moore, Inc., currently uses the site for cable storage. Structures remaining on site include an office building, warehouse, and two small storage buildings. In June 1995, a construction crew noted odors at the intersection of Third Street and Nelson Mandela Parkway, while excavating a trench needed to relocate an underground electrical line in preparation for a freeway project. Subsequent subsurface investigation by California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), DC Metals, and EPA revealed the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including vinyl chloride in soil, soil gas, and shallow ground water at the AMCO site, beneath Third Street, and at the 1401 Third Street property (former Bobo's Junkyard). On December 5, 1996, the EPA Emergency Response Office initiated a removal action at the AMCO site that involved the construction of a ground water and soil vapor extraction (SVE) treatment system. The EPA treatment system collection trench was excavated from December 5 through December 20, 1996. By December 23, 1996, the trench had been lined with a silt curtain, filled with gravel, and covered with a tarp. Cement was poured to permanently cover the trench on January 8, 1997. The treatment system operated from January 1997 through July 1998 and extracted approximately 7,000 pounds of VOCs, approximately 40 pounds of which were vinyl ch", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lees-statement-on-gop-tax-cut-bill", "Barbara Lees Statement on GOP Tax Cut Bill", "2005-12-08", "2005", "2005-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    Today, the House of Representatives voted 234-197 to pass a Republican tax bill that included $56 billion in tax cuts that primarily benefit the wealthiest one percent of Americans.  As part of the budget reconciliation process, the House already voted on a GOP measure to cut more than $50 billion from education, healthcare, foster care, child support and a host of other vital social programs.  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) voted against the bill.  The following is her statement: Today the Republican majority in this House once again stood with the wealthiest Americans and once again turned their back on middle class and poor Americans.  There can be no doubt about the morally bankrupt Republican priorities their budget calls for: big tax cuts for the wealthy and steep cuts in critical services for the middle class and the poor.  Hurricanes Katrina and Rita pulled back the curtain and showed the nation and the world the faces of poverty in this country - poverty that has increased under this administration's policies of neglect.    That is why it is particularly morally reprehensible that at this moment when the victims of Katrina and Rita need our help the most, the Republican majority would take this opportunity to assault the least among us' in order to provide even more give-aways for those with the most among us.  Indeed, it truly stunning that the Republicans have no moral hesitation slashing healthcare services for the poor, food security programs, and student loan assistance, in order to order to pay for tax cuts on capital gains and dividends that overwhelmingly benefit the wealthiest Americans. What's more, they have know shame knowing that all of these gifts to the rich will only saddle future generations with tens of billions in debt.  I'm outraged at this betrayal of the poor and of the abandonment of the values so many claim to profess.   I ask my colleagues to join me in standing with the majority of Americans. I ask my colleagues to stand with the middle class Americans and our most vulnerable Americans and reject the Republican majority's immoral tax giveaway.  Don't tell me we can't do better than this. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/house-approves-lee-bill-honoring-the-anniversary-of-the-end-of-slavery-december-6th-was-140th-anniversary-of-the-ratification-of-the-13th-amendment", "House Approves Lee Bill Honoring the Anniversary of the End of Slavery December 6th Was 140th Anniversary of the Ratification of the 13th Amendment", "2005-12-06", "2005", "2005-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    Today, the House of Representatives unanimously approved a resolution introduced by Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) to recognize the 140th anniversary of the ratification of the 13th Amendment, which formally abolished slavery in the United States.  The following are excerpt from her statement on the House floor: Today, I hope that all Members will support this effort to honor the 140th anniversary of the ratification of the 13th Amendment.  On December 6, 1865, slavery ended and the deep roots of the modern civil rights movement were planted. The 13th Amendment was a response to the Dred Scott decision of 1856, a ruling that declared Congress lacked the power to prohibit slavery in our country. If Dred Scott ruling was still in effect today, neither I nor the 43 members of the Congressional Black Caucus would be standing here as a Members of Congress.   As someone of African-descent, whether free or enslaved, I would be considered only three-fifths of a person.  Neither I nor millions of African-Americans would qualify as a citizens' of this country. As the descendant of people who survived the Middle Passage, who survived the cruelty of slavery, who survived Reconstruction, who survived Jim Crow, I know that my life has been inextricably linked to the 13th Amendment.  According to historical accounts, on the day of the House vote on January 31, 1865, the gallery which had just been opened to African Americans erupted into cheers and Representatives on the House floor were visibly emotional  crying and hugging each other. \r\n\r\n Twelve months later, the requisite three-fourths of the states in the union ratified the 13th Amendment.  More than one hundred years later, another eight states followed suit. Although not necessary, President Lincoln signed the 13th Amendment to show the united front to abolish slavery in the U.S. A treacherous and divisive burden was removed, and our nation was allowed to unite and truly begin to commit to the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness for all.  In fact, the 13th Amendment was the foundation for future equal rights and legislative actions like the 14th Amendment which ensured federal and state rights to all individuals, 15th Amendment which granted African American men the right to vote, and 19th Amendment which expanded suffrage to all women, the Civil Rights Acts, and the Voting Rights Act.  And protecting civil and human rights is not something that should be taken lightly; it requires constant vigilance and review.   As we honor this great act of our predecessors, we pay tribute to the visionaries who sacrificed, and fought for our civil rights and liberties. In 140 years, our country has grown from being an oppressive, divisive nation to a global advocate for democracy, civil and human rights. One-hundred and forty years after slavery was abolished, African-Americans and other minorities continue to experience social and economic injustices  as the recent Hurricane Katrina disaster magnified.   Within our own borders and throughout the world, human trafficking is rampant; it is a modern version of slavery and discrimination against those who have no voice.  \r\n\r\n Our work in Congress should be straightforward.  It is our duty to reaffirm this tradition of justice, equality and liberty for all. \r\n\r\n We have an obligation to ensure that everyone has equal access to the democratic process, livable wages, education, housing and health care. Clearly, we still have much work to do to ensure that discrimination is eliminated and all people are considered equal in the eyes of our laws. The movement that began with the ratification of the 13th Amendment must continue.  We owe it not only to those who suffered and sacrificed in the past but more importantly we owe it to future generations. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-responds-to-president-bushs-speech-on-iraq", "Barbara Lee Responds to President Bushs Speech on Iraq", "2005-11-30", "2005", "2005-11", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Oakland, CA)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) released the following statement in response to President Bush's speech outlining a plan for victory in Iraq today: President Bush's speech today was the speech of a man who has staked his presidency on a failed policy and refuses to take responsibility.\nMore than two years after declaring mission accomplished' in Iraq, President Bush is asking the American people to accept a public relations campaign dressed up as a plan for victory.'\nThe President can try to put lipstick on a pig, but the American people aren't fooled.  They have already rejected the administration's tired, stay-the-course policy that has no clear end and no clear standards for accountability.  \nPresident Bush refuses to acknowledge the fact that the presence of US troops has become the one force that unifies the disparate elements of the insurgency.  Our troops have become the rallying point and target of the very insurgency they are asked to contain, which is why we must begin the process of bringing them home.\nThe American people deserve honesty and accountability, not more rhetoric and spin.  It is time for a change of course in Iraq.  We can do better.\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/congresswoman-barbara-lees-statement-on-world-aids-day", "Congresswoman Barbara Lees Statement on World AIDS Day", "2005-11-30", "2005", "2005-11", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Oakland, CA)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) released the following statement on the progress and challenges in fighting the global HIV/AIDS pandemic on the eve of World AIDS Day, December 1st: Next year marks the 25th anniversary of the beginning of the global HIV/AIDS pandemic.  More than 25 million people have died of this devastating disease since 1981, and today more than 40 million people are infected globallythe vast majority in Sub-Saharan Africa.  The United Nation's Joint Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) estimates that this year alone HIV/AIDS has claimed the lives of nearly 3 million people, including over half a million children, while infecting over 5 million more.\r\n On World AIDS Day this December 1st, we again stand together in solidarity to take stock of our progress in fighting this disease and to recognize the tragic toll that AIDS has collectively taken on our global community.  In the spirit of this year's World AIDS Day theme, Stop AIDS, Keep the Promise we rededicate ourselves to this global struggle pledging never to forget those who have already been lost to this disease and never to ignore those who are still vulnerable.\r\n Our efforts this year in Congress have specifically focused on addressing the devastating impact of the global HIV/AIDS pandemic on the hundreds of millions of children around the world. Many of these children lack access to basic healthcare, adequate nutrition, school, employment opportunities, psychosocial support, AIDS treatment, and are even denied their own land and inheritance rights.\r\n Working with my colleagues in the House and the Senate, I introduced H.R 1409, The Assistance for Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Developing Countries Act of 2005, in order to better focus and coordinate US foreign assistance to care for these children.   After passage in the House and Senate, President Bush formally signed this important bill on November 8th 2005, making it Public Law 109-95. Although the passage of this bill represents a modest first step towards mitigating the impact of the global HIV/AIDS pandemic on children, it must be followed with at least $340 million in funding, and a recognition that much more needs to be done before we can fully defeat this disease.\r\n We must still address the persistent social, political, legal, and economic gender inequality that increases the vulnerability of women and girls to HIV infection.  We must empower women with the tools to protect themselves, including female condoms, microbicides and the ability to negotiate safer sex with their partners. The reality is that we need to employ every method and every organization that has a proven track record in fighting this disease.  \r\n We must repeal the 33 percent earmark for unproven abstinence-only-until-marriage programs that do not provide a comprehensive and balanced approach to prevention. We should not allow ideologues to place limitations on how our prevention money will be spent, and equally so we should not allow them to extend the global gag rule by denying HIV/AIDS funding to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that provide comprehensive family planning services to women. Above all we need more far money to build health care capacity, and pay for the equipment and drugs that can test for and treat this disease. The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria has made significant strides in the global fight against these three diseases in each of these areas, but unfortunately the United States continues to underfund this valuable international partnership between governments, civil society and NGO's.  We must increase our support for the Global Fund and provides at least $150 million more in funding this year. Here at home we must move to quickly re-authorize and expand funding for the Ryan White CARE Act.  This important initiative provides funding for HIV prevention programs, life-saving drugs and supportive services to tens of thousands of individuals, while supporting local health facilities, capacity building for AIDS Service Organizations, and outreach to affected communities. We must also make a concerted effort to tackle the devastating spread of HIV/AIDS among the African-American community.  Despite only representing about 12 percent of the population, African Americans account for nearly half of all people living with HIV/AIDS in the United States, while African-American women account for over 60 percent of all infections among women. So today, while we remember those who have died, let us not forget the struggle that still remains before us.  Our charge is not an easy one, but as a nation and as a global community we have a moral duty to act with resolve and with purpose and above all with compassion to keep the promise and end AIDS. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-gives-east-bay-small-businesses-a-seat-at-the-table-for-federal-transportation-funds", "Barbara Lee Gives East Bay Small Businesses a Seat at the Table for Federal Transportation Funds", "2005-11-21", "2005", "2005-11", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.21.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Gives East Bay Small Businesses a Seat at the Table for Federal Transportation Funds  \n\t\t\t(Oakland, CA) - Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) convened a business roundtable in Oakland today to make sure that East Bay small businesses, particularly minority and women owned businesses, are in a position to bid on contracts for local federally funded transportation projects.I'm working to make sure that federal transportation funds bring real benefits to the East Bay in the form of new jobs, safer roads, faster commutes, and more innovative and environmentally friendly transportation options, said Lee.  I am committed to making sure that the small businesses, particularly minority and women-owned businesses, are aware of the business opportunities presented by these funds and projects and are in a position to take advantage of them. Through Congresswoman Lee's work, California's Ninth U.S. Congressional District will receive more than $13 million in earmarked funding for transportation projects designed to strengthen public transportation, expand recreational opportunities, improve public safety, and reduce traffic as part of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) bill passed by Congress earlier this year.  The bill sets national transportation priorities and is the first comprehensive transportation bill to pass Congress since 1998. It includes a total of $286 billion in total funding of which California stands to gain approximately $3.5 billion a year for the next six years. At today's event, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation and other government agencies assisted small business owners in understanding how to make bids for these federal contracts.  Representatives from organizations, like the Ed Roberts Campus in Berkeley, whose projects will receive funds from SAFETEA-LU explained their projects and the local business opportunities they involve.\r\n ###  \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-announces-federal-funds-for-cultural-arts-center-in-fruitvale", "Barbara Lee Announces Federal Funds for Cultural Arts Center in Fruitvale", "2005-11-18", "2005", "2005-11", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) announced that an Appropriations bill approved by the House today includes funds to add a cultural arts center to the Fruitvale Transit village.Adding a cultural arts center to the Fruitvale Transit Village is another important step in improving the quality of life in the Fruitvale, said Lee.  Bringing arts and culture and a place where young people and families can enjoy them is part of the idea of the Transit Village, which is making a more livable neighborhood, where people can comfortably live and work and play.\r\n The conference report for the fiscal year 2006 Treasury, Transportation, HUD, Judiciary, District of Colombia Appropriations Act, approved by the House today included $150,000 to renovate the Fruitvale Masonic Temple, turning the 1909 building into a venue where families and youth can enjoy cultural arts, including dance, music, theater, art and technology. In total, Lee has worked to bring more than $2.5 million in federal funds for the Fruitvale Transit Village, a project that has contributed significantly to the economic revitalization of the region by combining new projects for housing, business, public transportation and recreation.  The funds for the cultural arts center are part of more than $50 million in funding for East Bay projects that Lee has worked to ensure were included in bills the House approved in the last week, money that has gone to education and transportation initiatives, improving public safety, reducing crime and increasing the capacity of the Port of Oakland.\r\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-announces-federal-funds-to-build-sidewalks-improve-public-safety-in-ashland-cherryland-and-castro-valley", "Barbara Lee Announces Federal Funds to Build Sidewalks, Improve Public Safety in Ashland, Cherryland and Castro Valley", "2005-11-18", "2005", "2005-11", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) announced that an Appropriations bill approved by the House today includes funds to improve public safety by building sidewalks in Ashland, Cherryland and Castro Valley.\r\nThis funding will help ensure that children aren't walking to school or waiting for the bus in the street, said Lee.  Building sidewalks is about increasing public safety and increasing mobility for people with disabilities.  It is a small, but important part of building healthy, safe communities.\r\n The conference report for the fiscal year 2006 Treasury, Transportation, HUD, Judiciary, District of Colombia Appropriations Act, approved by the House today included $650,000 for sidewalks and streetscape improvements in Ashland, Cherryland, and Castro Valley.   Funding for projects in the unincorporated areas of Alameda County, which include Ashland, Cherryland and Castro Valley, has been a priority for Lee since they were added to her Congressional District during the redistricting process that followed the 2000 census.  In total, Lee has brought in more than $2.5 million for public safety sidewalk projects in these areas, which historically have not received the same degree of attention from federal funding as the incorporated parts of the county. The funds for the sidewalks are part of more than $50 million in funding for East Bay projects that Lee has worked to ensure were included in bills the House approved in the last week, money that has gone to education and transportation initiatives, improving public safety, reducing crime and increasing the capacity of the Port of Oakland.\r\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-announces-more-federal-funds-for-the-ed-roberts-campus", "Barbara Lee Announces More Federal Funds For The Ed Roberts Campus", "2005-11-18", "2005", "2005-11", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) announced that an Appropriations bill approved by the House today includes funds for the Ed Roberts Campus, an intermodal transit and disability rights center in Berkeley.These funds are critical in making public transportation accessible to people with disabilities and enhancing the quality of life for thousands of people in the Bay Area, said Lee.  I am proud to help  move forward a facility that will be a national transportation model for disabled access and disability rights.\r\n The conference report for the fiscal year 2006 Treasury, Transportation, HUD, Judiciary, District of Colombia Appropriations Act approved by the House today included $300,000 for the construction of the Ed Roberts Campus, an intermodal transit center at the Ashby BART station in Berkeley to assist people living with disabilities in effectively accessing public transportation.  The ERC will provide a convenient hub that links rail and bus transportation in a single location and house a coalition of disability rights organizations. \r\n This funding is in addition to more than $2.5 million for the Ed Roberts Campus that was included in the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), a transportation bill approved by Congress earlier this year.  In total, Lee has brought in almost $5 million in federal funds for the project since 2001.\r\n The funds for the Ed Roberts Campus are part of more than $50 million in funding for East Bay projects that Lee has worked to ensure were included in bills the House approved in the last week, money that has gone to education and transportation initiatives, improving public safety, reducing crime and increasing the capacity of the Port of Oakland.\r\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-blasts-phony-gop-withdrawal-measure-calls-effort-a-cynical-disgraceful-stunt", "Barbara Lee Blasts Phony GOP Withdrawal Measure Calls Effort a Cynical, Disgraceful Stunt", "2005-11-18", "2005", "2005-11", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement in response to the Republican leadership's decision to call for a vote on a GOP-authored measure that was designed to look like a measure introduced yesterday by Ranking Member of the Defense Appropriation Committee, John Murtha (D-PA), but which stripped many of the key elements included in Murtha's bill:I am disgusted by the course of events today.  As the daughter of a veteran of two wars I am offended and outraged by this personal assault on decorated war veteran Congressman John Murtha.  The Republican majority has lost any sense of decorum or decency. Their abuse of power is obscene. There will be a reckoning, though, because the American people want accountability, not more Republican cover-ups. The American people want honesty, not more misleading and manipulation.   They want to end this unnecessary and senseless war, not a policy of stay the course' that has no goals, no benchmarks, no plans, and no end. The Republican majority's effort in distorting and politicizing the resolution offered by a decorated war veteran is nothing short of despicable. The reality is that these are desperate actions by a desperate majority and a desperate administration. This last minute effort isn't about a debate on the issues the Murtha resolution raises. It isn't about how intelligence was misused by the administration.  But it  should be.\r\n \r\nIt isn't about how we are going to bring our troops home.  But it should be. This resolution is just about politics. I support the Murtha resolution and this is not the Murtha resolution.  I reject this cynical and disgraceful stunt from a party devoid of ideas on ending the war in Iraq and how to safely bring our troops home.\r\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-condemns-gop-budget-bill-as-immoral", "Barbara Lee Condemns GOP Budget Bill as Immoral", "2005-11-18", "2005", "2005-11", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.18.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Condemns GOP Budget Bill as Immoral \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) released the following statement condemning as immoral the Republican budget resolution that was approved by the House by a vote of 217-215 at 1:39 this morning: The Republican majority in this House has given us an immoral budget bill that flies in the face of our nation's basic values. Incredibly, in the wake of devastating hurricanes and the two Americas that it clearly exposed, Republicans have seized the moment to launch an assault against the least among us,' in order to pay for tax cuts for the wealthy. Shame on the Republicans who vote for $11.4 billion in Medicaid cuts that would slash health services for the poor and long term care patients. Shame on the Republicans who vote for more than $14 billion in student loan cuts that would raise the cost of college for students and their families through increased interest rates and loan fees. Shame on the Republicans who vote to cut 225,000 people off of food stamps. We must turn back this incredible attack on our nation's most vulnerable populations, our student and our values and we must reject the morally bankrupt Republican agenda that cuts services to Katrina victims and working families in order to finance billions in tax cuts targeted at the wealthy and that will only saddle future generations with more debt? Don't tell me we can't do better than this. \r\n \r\n\t###\r\n \r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/angelina-jolie-joins-barbara-lee-to-celebrate-passage-of-bill-to-protect-orphans-and-vulnerable-children-call-for-full-funding", "Angelina Jolie Joins Barbara Lee to Celebrate Passage of Bill to Protect Orphans and Vulnerable Children, Call for Full Funding", "2005-11-16", "2005", "2005-11", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    Academy award winning actress Angelina Jolie joined Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) at a press conference on Capitol Hill today to celebrate the passage of a bill authored by Lee designed to provide a comprehensive US response to the continuing global problem of orphaned and vulnerable children and to call for the measure to be fully funded.  \r\nToday, every 14 seconds another child is orphaned by AIDS.  With parents dying at an alarming rate, children are left without food, shelter, education, or protection.  The global orphan crisis is a profound humanitarian disaster that will be felt for decades to come, said Lee.  This bill will better focus our foreign assistance programs to address the special needs of orphans and vulnerable children, who are oftentimes a significant afterthought in our international programs, and we must ensure that vision is funded with at least $340 million this year.\r\n According to a joint report by UNAIDS, UNICEF and USAID released in July, 2004, there are more than 143 million children living in Sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean who were identified as orphans having lost one or both of their parents.  The rapid growth of the HIV/AIDS virus in Africa and throughout the developing world has dramatically impacted the number of children who are newly becoming orphans.  With parents dying at an alarming rate, children are left without food, shelter, education, or protection.\r\n  The Assistance for Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Developing Countries Act of 2005 establishes the position of Special Advisor for Orphans and Vulnerable Children within the USAID to better coordinate and provide assistance in support of basic care; treatment for HIV-infected children; psychosocial support; school food programs; educational opportunities through the elimination of school fees; and inheritance rights for orphans and vulnerable children.\r\n Lee's bill had 130 co-sponsors in the House and support from more than 30 non-governmental organizations working on HIV/AIDS and international aid issues.  The Senate version of the bill was introduced by Senators Richard Lugar (R-IN) and Barbara Boxer (D-CA).  Lee's bill passed the House on October 18th, was approved unanimously by the Senate on October 24th, and signed into Law by the President on November 8th (Public Law 109-95).\r\n The Administration will now need to appoint a Special Advisor for Orphans and Vulnerable Children who will work to coordinate US foreign assistance on OVC's, devise a government wide strategy, monitor US assistance, and put together an annual report to Congress.\r\n Congresswoman Lee will now focus on securing adequate appropriations for our US foreign assistance programs for OVC's, with at least $340 million this year, and will seek to exercise rigorous oversight over assistance programs through her seat on the International Relations Committee.\r\n\r\n The unfortunate reality is that much of our foreign policy is based on a stop gap mentality, said Lee.  This bill is an important first step, not only towards addressing the growing crisis facing orphans and vulnerable children, but towards a more proactive foreign policy aimed at addressing the root causes of these problems.\r\n\r\n As the most senior Democratic Woman on the House International Relations Committee, Lee has traveled to Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, Asia and Europe and witnessed the desperation that orphan and vulnerable children are facing.  In 1999, she took part in a Presidential Mission to sub-Saharan Africa focused specifically on children orphaned by AIDS.\r\n Lee's accomplishments in promoting effective, bipartisan measures to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS and bring treatment to the infected have earned her recognition both at home and abroad as a leader in the fight against HIV/AIDS.  Lee was a leader in the bipartisan effort to designate $15 billion for the prevention, care, and treatment of HIV/AIDS, TB, and malaria.  She authored the bill to establish the framework for the Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS and sponsored legislation that allows impoverished countries to purchase generic, cheaper HIV/AIDS drugs.\r\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-responds-to-rep-murthas-call-for-iraq-withdrawal", "Barbara Lee Responds to Rep. Murthas Call for Iraq Withdrawal", "2005-11-16", "2005", "2005-11", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement in response to Ranking Member on the Defense Appropriations Committee, Jack Murtha's (D-PA) speech today calling for the immediate withdrawal of US troops from Iraq:\r\n\r\nCongressman Murtha's statement represents a crucial tipping point.  He gives a very important and credible voice to the growing majority of Americans who recognize that the military occupation of Iraq is undermining our security and needs to end immediately.  \r\n\r\n\nIt is impossible to overstate the significance of the fact that a decorated veteran who, for years, Democrats and Republicans alike have turned to on defense issues has stated that we can accomplish no more militarily in Iraq and that it is time to bring our troops home.\r\n\nHis call for the withdrawal of US troops for Iraq is another indication that Congress is catching up with the majority of American people.\r\n\nAs someone who opposed the war from the beginning and offered an alternative to the use of force resolution, I hope that Congressman Murtha's statement will help spur a long overdue debate in Congress about the immediate future of our policy in Iraq.\r\n\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-calls-for-end-to-violence-commitment-to-democracy-in-ethiopia", "Barbara Lee Calls for End to Violence, Commitment to Democracy in Ethiopia", "2005-11-14", "2005", "2005-11", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) called for an end to violence and a commitment to reconciliation, as violence sparked by protests of the Ethiopian elections in May resumed over the weekend.\r\nAny form of violence in Ethiopia cannot be condoned and all parties must come together to end the current political stalemate, said Lee.  All Ethiopians must recognize the value of multi-party democracy and make an effort to respect the opinions of those in the minority and majority.\r\n\nLee appealed for all parties to show restraint, calling on opposition leaders to refrain from inciting civil disobedience and the Ethiopian government to remove restrictions on political groups, release all political detainees and appoint an independent commission to examine the cause of the violence.\r\n\nViolence ignited after the May 2005 elections, where President Meles Zenawi was re-elected and the ruling party maintained their majority in Parliament.  While opposition parties made significant gains in the parliament, they refused to take their seats in favor of protesting the elections.  Approximately 36 people died and hundreds were arrested in the protests.  \r\n\nOver the past three days, several opposition leaders have been imprisoned; violent clashes have killed more than 42 people and injured more than 150 people in the capital and surrounding towns outside of Addis Ababa.\r\n\nThere is an immediate need for an open and peaceful dialogue in a spirit of political reconciliation to promote a functioning, multi-party parliamentary democracy in Ethiopia.\r\n\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/lee-secures-funding-for-9th-district-in-appropriations-bills-port-education-and-ex-offender-funds-will-boost-economy-and-reduce-crime", "Lee Secures Funding for 9th District in Appropriations Bills  Port, Education and Ex-Offender Funds Will Boost Economy and Reduce Crime", "2005-11-09", "2005", "2005-11", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) announced that the conference reports for the fiscal year 2006 appropriations bills for Energy and Water and Science State, Justice and Commerce approved by the House yesterday included key funds for her East Bay District.These funds are welcome good news at a time when misplaced priorities and budget cuts are reducing money for vital programs that help our communities, said Lee. I'm proud to bring federal funds to the East bay that will help our economy, support education and reduce crime.  The FY '06 Energy and Water Appropriations bill included $5,585,000 for Operations and Maintenance for the Port of Oakland and $48 million to continue funding the Port of Oakland's 50 foot dredging project. The dredging project is part of an $800 million expansion project funded by the Port that will improve infrastructure, expand capacity and increase efficiencies throughout the distribution chain.  The Port projects that the finished project will create an additional 8,800 jobs, a $1.9 billion increase in business revenue, and an increase of $55.5 million in local tax revenues. All of the dredged materials will be reused for wetlands restoration, habitat enhancement, and upland use within the San Francisco Bay Area.  The FY 06 Science, State, Commerce, Justice Appropriations bill included $600,000 for the Chabot Space and Science Center in Oakland, California for The Future Programs for Humans in Space Education Programs. The project will provide increased public education and outreach to underserved schools and community groups in Oakland, related to Human Exploration of Space. The funds will be used to translate planetarium programs into different languages (Spanish, Chinese) and additional targeted exhibits and equipment.  It also included funds for programs designed to reduce crime and youth violence: $100,000 for the Men of Valor Academy in Oakland, a program that reduces recidivism rates and crime by assisting ex-offenders and high school dropouts age 18 and older to become productive citizens and reintegrate successfully into society. The program provides: housing, meals, counseling, educational training, vocational training and support. $100,000 for the Mentoring Center in Oakland, CA to expand its Transition Program. The program is an intensive re-entry program for young people incarcerated in California Youth Authority returning to the Bay Area. The Mentoring Center has worked successfully with this population for twelve years. $100,000 for Martin Luther King, Jr. Freedom Center in Oakland for youth violence prevention programs.  The program seeks to develop skills in conflict resolution, gang prevention, and alternatives to violence for youth. $250,000 for Project Avary programs to support children whose parents are imprisoned.    Lee also announced that the Dr. J. Alfred Smith, Sr. Training Academy in Oakland was awarded a $660,000 from the U. S. Department of Labor's Prisoner Re-entry Initiative Grants program to support the ongoing work designed to reduce recidivism and the societal costs of re-incarceration by helping individuals find work when they return to communities.  ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-condemns-house-gop-refusal-to-investigate-white-house-marketing-of-iraq-war", "Barbara Lee Condemns House GOP Refusal to Investigate White House Marketing of Iraq War", "2005-11-08", "2005", "2005-11", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement today after 25 Republican Members of the House International Relations Committee denied a bipartisan effort to obtain documents and communications from the White House Iraq Group (WHIG):\r\n Yet again the Republican majority in the House has thwarted the will of the majority of Americans who are demanding answers about the war in Iraq.  And yet again, the American people have been denied a fair and open debate around the extent to which the Bush administration misled the nation and the world in making its case for war against Iraq.\r\n \r\n\nIf the Republican majority has nothing to cover up or hide, then they should have allowed this important and timely measure offered by Congressman Dennis Kucinich (D-OH) to have been brought to the House floor for a vote.  By preventing this, the Republican majority has dealt another blow to cause of democracy and freedom that they purport to defend. This is truly a sad day.\nThe White House Iraq Group was formed in August 2002 by White House Chief of Staff, Andrew Card and consisted of several high-level White House advisors including Karl Rove, Lewis Scooter Libby, Karen Hughes and Condoleezza Rice.  Its purpose was expressly to market the war to the American public. Acquiring these documents and communications from the WHIG would have shed light on the administration's use of intelligence in the lead up to the war in Iraq.\r\n\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-cbc-introduce-comprehensive-katrina-relief-bill", "Barbara Lee, CBC Introduce Comprehensive Katrina Relief Bill", "2005-11-03", "2005", "2005-11", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) joined Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chair, Mel Watt (D-NC) and other CBC members at a press conference on Capitol Hill today to announce the introduction of the CBC's comprehensive relief legislation for Katrina survivors and the Gulf region.\r\n\"The Congressional Black Caucus is playing a pivotal role in making sure that recovery and reconstruction in the wake of hurricane Katrina is both speedy and just, and prioritizes the needs of those who have been hit hardest in this tragedy,\" said Lee.\r\n H.R. 4197, the Hurricane Katrina Recovery, Reclamation, Restoration, Reconstruction and Reunion Act of 2005, is designed to provide for the recovery of the Gulf Coast region and for the reunion of families devastated by Hurricane Katrina and to address the underlying causes of the poverty that contributed to the storm's devastating impact.\r\n As a member of the House Financial Services' Subcommittee on Housing and Community Opportunity, Lee played a lead role in developing the housing and poverty sections of the bill. \r\n Through Lee's efforts, the package included immediate housing initiatives, such as 300,000 emergency housing vouchers, a mortgage moratorium for Gulf-region FHA Homeowners, housing counseling for Katrina survivors living in transitional and temporary housing, and prohibitions on housing Katrina survivors in dilapidated housing units. \r\n The legislation also includes longer term housing initiatives, such as funding for HOPE VI, the Community Development Block Grant program, and the public housing capital fundwhich is needed to rebuild over 70,000 public housing units that were destroyed in the storm.\r\n Lee, who has been outspoken about the role that poverty played in Katrina's devastation, also played a key role in making sure the legislation contained provisions to address the underlying structural problem poverty poses for the nation.\r\n \"As we begin rebuilding, we must also address the systemic problems of poverty and racism that contributed to the storm's terrible impact, and that starts with leadership from the White House,\" said Lee. \"It's time for this administration to demonstrate that it is not indifferent to the most vulnerable among us by giving us a plan for eradicating poverty.\"\r\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/foreign-aid-bill-includes-lee-measure-to-ban-arms-to-haiti", "Foreign Aid Bill Includes Lee Measure to Ban Arms to Haiti", "2005-11-03", "2005", "2005-11", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    The House today approved a foreign aid spending measure that included an amendment by Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) that bans the sale and transfer of arms for use by the Haitian National Police and requires a State Dept. report on the involvement of Haitian police in criminal activity.\r\nThe people of Haiti remain targets of political violence, torture and in some cases murder, and too often the perpetrators of this violence are the Haitian National Police, armed with US weapons free of charge, said Lee. This amendment is necessary in the effort to restore democracy.  Haiti desperately needs humanitarian assistance, and sending weapons only exacerbates Haiti's struggle with violence and the criminal activity within the Haitian National Police Force.\r\n \nLee's amendment, which was included in the FY 2006 Foreign Operations Appropriations Conference Report, prohibits all arms transfers and sales by the State Department for use by the Haitian National Police and requires an investigation into implications of senior and rank-and-file members in corruption, kidnappings, and narcotics-trafficking, as documented by the State Department's International Narcotics Control Strategy Reports.  \r\n\nSince 2004, as many as 3,000 weapons have been transferred to Haiti free of charge from the United States, and in all probability have gone to arm the Haitian National Police force.  The United Nations and human rights groups have expressed concern about the involvement of Haitian police in political violence and human rights abuses.\r\n\nThe bill was approved by a vote of 358-39 and now awaits approval in the\r\n Senate before going to the White House and becoming law.\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-proposes-repealing-tax-cuts-for-wealthiest-to-fund-poverty-alleviation-efforts", "Barbara Lee Proposes Repealing Tax Cuts for Wealthiest to Fund Poverty Alleviation Efforts", "2005-10-31", "2005", "2005-10", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    In an ongoing effort to focus Congressional attention on the crisis of poverty in the United States exposed by hurricane Katrina, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) introduced legislation to repeal President Bush's tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans and dedicate the funds to alleviating poverty.\r\nDealing with poverty is an issue of values and priorities, said Lee.  Prioritizing massive tax breaks to the wealthiest few over addressing the fact that almost 40 million Americans are living in poverty doesn't square with our nation's values.\r\n Lee's measure envisions repealing the tax cuts enacted since 2001 for the wealthiest five percent of Americans and investing the funds in programs designed to relieve the growing burden on the working poor and to alleviate poverty in America.  \r\n A recent report from the U.S. Census Bureau found that there were 37,000,000 people living in poverty in the United States in 2004, an increase of 5,400,000 since President Bush took office.  The Census Bureau defines as poverty as annual income of $14,680 for a family of three.  More than 15 million are living in extreme poverty, which is defined as less than half of poverty income.\r\n From 2002 through 2005, the tax cuts for the wealthiest five percent of Americans cost an estimated $352,600,000,000 in Federal revenue, the equivalent of annual Head Start enrollment costs for 11,675,496 students, annual health insurance coverage for 20,020,440 uninsured Americans or annual college tuition for 17,093,271 university students for the same three year period.\r\n Lee's legislation is the second measure she has introduced to highlight the issue of poverty in the wake of hurricane Katrina.  In September, she introduced a bill calling on the Bush administration to create a poverty eradication plan.\r\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/lee-praises-reid-renews-call-for-investigation-into-pre-war-intelligence", "Lee Praises Reid, Renews Call for Investigation into Pre-War Intelligence", "2005-10-31", "2005", "2005-10", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA) renewed her calls for an investigation into the mounting evidence that the Bush administration manipulated intelligence to justify the invasion of Iraq and praised Senate Minority Harry Reid (D-NV) for using procedural means to force the issue on the floor of the Senate.\r\nWe are at war in Iraq under an authority conferred to President Bush by the U.S. Congress, and Congress  not only has a right but a responsibility to make sure that the authority to use force was not granted under circumstances that were deliberately misleading, said Lee.  The fact is that there has been no investigation and no oversight, and Republicans seem content to deny the American people the answers that they are asking for and that they deserve.\r\n\r\n\nThis afternoon, Reid invoked Senate Rule 21 to force the Senate into closed session discuss the status of an investigation into prewar intelligence about Iraq.  Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman, Pat Roberts (R-KS) over a year ago promised a second phase of the inquiry into pre-war intelligence regarding Saddam Hussein's alleged weapons of mass destruction to investigate the administration's use of intelligence in making the case for war.\r\n\r\n\nLee has long called for Congress to exercise its oversight responsibilities in investigating the use of intelligence in the lead up to the Iraq war.  Earlier this year she introduced H.Res. 375, a measure which had bipartisan support and 82 cosponsors and would have required the Bush administration to give Congress all information relating to communication with officials of the United Kingdom relating to U.S. policy in Iraq between January 1, 2002 and October 16, 2002, the date Congressional authority to use force in Iraq became law.  The measure was a privileged resolution, meaning if it was not taken up by the International Relations Committee in a defined period of time, Representative Lee would have been entitled to request that it be brought to the House floor for a vote.  \r\n\r\n\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-responds-to-bush-nomination-of-alito", "Barbara Lee Responds to Bush Nomination of Alito", "2005-10-30", "2005", "2005-10", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Oakland, CA)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement regarding President Bush's nomination of Judge Samuel Alito to replace Justice Sandra Day O'Connor on the United States Supreme Court:\r\nI am disappointed, but not surprised, that President Bush has missed the opportunity to nominate a candidate who would command wide public support to fill Justice Sandra Day O'Connor's seat on the Supreme Court.  Instead of acting to unify our country behind someone who shared Justice O'Connor's commitment to our Constitution, our civil liberties and our individual rights, he has bowed to political pressure from those who would use the court to advance their radical ideological agenda.\r\n\nIt is a bitter irony that President Bush would hand down this nomination as thousands gathered in Washington to bid their final respects to Rosa Parks and to celebrate the legacy of civil rights and equality for all Americans that she represented.\r\n\nJudge Alito's record on issues such as discrimination, civil rights, a woman's right to choose and basic labor protections, just to name a few, are far removed from the mainstream and profoundly troubling.  I believe that if the Senate fulfills its obligation to examine his record thoroughly, the American people will realize how radical a candidate he is.\r\n\nThe choice of someone whose credentials are so far from the mainstream can only be seen as an effort by a weakened President to engage the support of his right wing base in hopes that a divisive fight will distract away from the mounting evidence of his administration's corruption and abuse of the public trust.\r\n\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-reacts-to-indictment-of-senior-white-house-official", "Barbara Lee Reacts to Indictment of Senior White House Official", "2005-10-27", "2005", "2005-10", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement today on the indictment of Vice President Cheney's Chief of Staff, Lewis Scooter Libby in the grand jury investigation of the outing of covert CIA agent, Valerie Plame:\r\nThis is not simply a question of the White House exposing an undercover CIA agent in an act of political retribution against a critic, it is about the White House deliberately manipulating intelligence to justify the invasion of Iraq and then engaged in a ruthless campaign to cover it up.\r\n\nPresident Bush needs to ask himself whether he will follow the example of Ronald Reagan, who owned up to the massive deception committed by his White House during Iran-Contra and cleaned house, or the example of Richard Nixon, who refused to acknowledge the mistakes of his administration and paid the consequences.\r\n\nThe outing of Valerie Plame and the deceptive case for war constitute an incredible abuse of the trust of the American people and directly question the credibility of this White House.  The American people deserve honesty, and we deserve accountability.\r\n\nWhen President Bush ran for President, he promised to restore integrity to the White House.  He promised not simply to do what was legal, but what was right.  Whether little credibility the White House still has will depend on whether the President comes clean and cleans house.\r\n\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lees-statement-on-harriet-miers-scotus-withdrawal", "Barbara Lees Statement on Harriet Miers SCOTUS Withdrawal", "2005-10-26", "2005", "2005-10", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement on Harriet Miers withdrawing her nomination for the position of Associate Justice of the Supreme Court: \nHarriet Miers nomination for the Supreme Court has fallen victim to the divisive politics of right wing extremists. It is frankly frightening the degree of influence that the far right of the Republican base has over this White House. \nWhile I had concerns about Ms. Miers, particularly about her independence from the White House, I believe that she deserved a fair hearing in the Senate. \nUnfortunately, Ms. Miers never got a hearing, and the only voices that were heard were those who want to hijack the nomination process to pack the Supreme Court with Justices who will advance their narrow political agenda.\nIn choosing a replacement for Ms. Miers, President Bush should not reward the bullying of his right wing base.  He should reject the demands of a few extremists and choose a justice who will protect the constitutional rights of all Americans. \n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-blasts-gop-democracy-gag-amendment", "Barbara Lee Blasts GOP Democracy Gag Amendment", "2005-10-25", "2005", "2005-10", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) spoke out in favor of affordable housing and condemned Republican efforts to disenfranchise low income communities by banning non-partisan election activities conducted by non-profits receiving affordable housing funds during debate over a bill to reform Government Sponsored Enterprises (GSEs). It is rare that this House considers housing bills and it is shameful, especially given those left homeless by Katrina, that our bipartisan efforts to support increased homeownership and wealth-building through the creation of an affordable housing trust fund have fallen victim to the right wing's ongoing assault on democracy and programs designed to help the poor, elderly and disabled, said Lee.  The legislation was designed to reform the GSEs in an attempt to better regulate and offer safety and soundness in the capital market.  It would also dedicate 3.5 percent profits from GSEs Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac towards establishing an affordable housing fund to create a housing construction program.  While Lee has long been a champion of affordable housing in Congress, she voted against the bill because of the late addition of a controversial Republican amendment to prohibit non-profits that build most of the affordable housing from engaging in non partisan voter registration, get-out-the-vote and other non-partisan election activities.  The bill that I supported coming out of committee, a product that struck a fair balance between regulatory oversight and the GSEs housing mission and goals, is turned on its head and gutted by the undemocratic managers' amendment that is being pushed by Republican ideologues here today, said Lee. This Republican gag amendment is not only extreme and undemocratic, it is possibly unconstitutional.  It gags non-partisan speech and civic engagement and participation in our most fundamental of democratic activities.  The managers' amendment passed, 210-205, on a mostly party-line vote. The bill was approved with the amendment by a vote of 331-90.  ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lees-statement-on-the-death-of-rosa-parks", "Barbara Lee's Statement on the Death of Rosa Parks", "2005-10-24", "2005", "2005-10", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement today on the death of civil rights leader Rosa Parks:\r\nOur thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Rosa Parks.  With her passing, we have lost a truly courageous American.\r\n Without question, Rosa Parks, was a pivotal force in the struggle for civil rights in America.\r\n Ms. Parks courageous action touched millions of lives, serving as a catalyst for the legendary bus boycott in Alabama and acting as a critical turning point in the African-American civil rights movement.\r\n With the support of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other civil rights activists, Rosa Parks demonstrated the power of individuals and communities to tear down injustice and bring about social change.\r\n Her spark ignited a fire that helped to reverse segregation, raise public consciousness, and challenge our democracy to guarantee and secure liberty and justice for all.\r\n Rosa Parks is a true Shero.  But as we remember Rosa and her actions today, let us not forget that we still have much more work to do. \r\n It is our job as representatives of the people to pick up the banner carried by Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King, Medger Evers, and others and ensure that our children and our children's children can live in a world free of ignorance, prejudice, discrimination and racism.\r\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lees-statement-on-the-nomination-of-ben-bernanke-for-fed-chair", "Barbara Lees Statement on the Nomination of Ben Bernanke for Fed Chair", "2005-10-23", "2005", "2005-10", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Oakland, CA)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) released the following statement today on the nomination of the chairman of the President's Council of Economic Advisers, Ben Bernanke for the position of Chairman of the Federal Reserve:\r\nAs a member of the House Financial Services Committee, I'm very conscious of Mr. Greenspan's many significant contributions, and I would like to thank him for his service.\r\n\nAny new chair will face a difficult task, not only in filling Mr. Greenspan's shoes, but with the economy.  Inflation is on the rise, and the cost of the war in Iraq along with the Republican tax cuts are resulting in huge deficits.\r\n\nMr. Greenspan recognized that our current course of deficit spending is unsustainable.  I hope that Mr. Bernanke shares those views, and that his nomination process offers an opportunity for a real debate on our nation's economic priorities.\r\n\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-hosts-roundtable-to-improve-disaster-prepardness-for-vulnerable-communities-we-cannot-let-what-happened-after-katrina-happen-here", "Barbara Lee Hosts Roundtable to Improve Disaster Prepardness for Vulnerable Communities We Cannot Let What Happened After Katrina Happen Here", "2005-10-21", "2005", "2005-10", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Oakland, CA) - On Saturday, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) hosted a roundtable discussion on improving local disaster preparedness in the wake of hurricane Katrina, focusing specifically on protecting vulnerable communities.We cannot let what happened after Katrina happen here in the Bay Area, said Lee.  Katrina showed us that certain populations are more vulnerable when it comes to disasters, so we must address the underlying structural issues like poverty that contribute to this, but we must also make sure we are doing everything we can to better protect people who are most at risk.\r\n The event was designed to draw on the experience of local organizations in the wake of the Loma Prieta Earthquake and Oakland fire and to share experience and solutions they had developed to better protect vulnerable communities in disaster situations.\r\n One such organization is CARD (Collaborating Agencies Responding to Disasters), which was created to provide safe, accessible, culturally appropriate emergency response services and to bridge the gap between special needs and marginalized communities and traditional emergency response agencies.\r\n It is not just a question of funding first responders, but specifically protecting the seniors, children, disabled, homeless, non-English speakers, low-income or otherwise in need of ongoing support,  who end up becoming the first victims' because they often have little or no ability to address their own preparedness, response and recovery needs, said Ana-Marie Jones, Executive Director of CARD.  I'd like to thank Congresswoman Lee for looking at the root causes of why the same people are always the first victims in disasters and for her willingness to explore and support alternative approaches to disaster preparedness. \r\n\r\n \"In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, we now know that a community is only prepared if its most vulnerable residents are prepared, said Dr. Tony Iton, the Alameda County Public Health Officer.  We must revisit many of our assumptions and make this our first priority.\"\r\n Joe Brooks, Vice President for Civic Engagement for Policy Link, a national nonprofit research and advocacy organization focused on advancing policies to achieve economic and social equity, discussed issues of poverty and Katrina reconstruction efforts.\r\n Brian Keith, Deputy Director of Grants Administration to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's Office of Homeland Security (OHS), discussed federal Homeland Security Grants as they relate to efforts to protect vulnerable communities.\r\n The event was also attended by representatives of a number of local organizations that work directly with seniors, disabled people and other vulnerable communities, as well as by philanthropic leaders in an effort to increase funding for successful programs in the Bay Area and determine whether they constitute effective models that could be reproduced on a national level.\r\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/house-approves-lee-bill-on-orphans-and-vulnerable-children", "House Approves Lee Bill on Orphans and Vulnerable Children", "2005-10-18", "2005", "2005-10", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.18.05\n\t\t\t House Approves Lee Bill on Orphans and Vulnerable Children \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)  The House of Representatives voted 415-9 to approve a bill introduced by Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) that is designed to provide a comprehensive US response to the continuing global problem of orphaned and vulnerable children.\r\n  \r\nThere is too much at stake for the United States to take a haphazard approach to the global crisis facing orphans and vulnerable children, said Lee. This bill is an important step in creating a coordinated, more effective response to a crisis that impacts the futures of millions of the world's children.\r\n  \r\nAccording to a joint report by UNAID, UNICEF and USAIDS released in July, 2004, a child is orphaned by AIDS every 14 seconds. There are more than 143 million children living in Sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean who were identified as orphans having lost one or both of their parents. The rapid growth of the HIV/AIDS virus in Africa and throughout the developing world has dramatically impacted the number of children who are newly becoming orphans. With parents dying at an alarming rate, children are left without food, shelter, education, or protection.\r\n  \r\nThe Assistance for Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Developing Countries Act of 2005 establishes the position of Special Advisor for Orphans and Vulnerable Children within the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to better coordinate and provide assistance in support of basic care; treatment for HIV-infected children; psychosocial support; school food programs; educational opportunities through the elimination of school fees; and inheritance rights for orphans and vulnerable children.\r\n  \r\nLee's bill had 130 co-sponsors and support from more than 30 non-governmental organizations working on HIV/AIDS and international aid issues. A similar bill was introduced in the Senate in February by Senator Richard Lugar (R-IN), Chairman of the Senate International Relations Committee, and Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA). Last year, the House passed Lee's bill, but a similar measure in the Senate did not reach a vote. \r\n  \r\nI appreciate the bipartisan work of my colleagues in the House in support of this measure, and I hope that the Senate will act quickly to pass this bill and help these children, said Lee.\r\n  \r\nAs the most senior Democratic Woman on the House International Relations Committee, Lee has traveled to Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, Asia and Europe and witnessed the desperation that orphan and vulnerable children are facing. In 1999, she took part in a Presidential Mission to sub-Saharan Africa focused specifically on children orphaned by AIDS.\r\n  \r\nLee's accomplishments in promoting effective, bipartisan measures to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS and bring treatment to the infected have earned her recognition both at home and abroad as a leader in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Lee was a leader in the bipartisan effort to designate $15 billion for the prevention, care, and treatment of HIV/AIDS, TB, and malaria. She authored the bill to establish the framework for the Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS and sponsored legislation that allows impoverished countries to purchase generic, cheaper HIV/AIDS drugs.\r\n  \r\n###\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lees-statement-on-earthquake-in-asia", "Barbara Lee's Statement on Earthquake in Asia", "2005-10-10", "2005", "2005-10", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.10.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee's Statement on Earthquake in Asia \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement regarding the earthquake that struck northern Pakistan on October 8, 2005.       \"My thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the massive and devastating earthquake.    \"The people of the 9th Congressional District know all too well the destructive power of earthquakes and understand that the survivors need our help.    \"I appreciate the Bush administration's pledge of $50 million to the relief efforts and encourage the administration and the American people to continue their support for the victims who are urgently in need of disaster relief.\"   For more information about US assistance for the disaster victims, please visit:  www.state.gov  Should you wish to make a private contribution to assist the victims of this disaster, you may contact the American Red Cross at www.redcross.org or the League of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies at www.ifrc.org. Additonal organizations providing relief: www.savethechildren.org www.unicefusa.org ###   \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/lee-fights-latest-republican-give-away-to-big-oil", "Lee Fights Latest Republican Give Away to Big Oil", "2005-10-07", "2005", "2005-10", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.07.05\n\t\t\t Lee Fights Latest Republican Give Away to Big Oil \n\t\t\tContact: Nathan Britton - 202-225-2661\r\n(Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) today delivered the following statement on the House floor in opposition to the second consecutive Republican energy bill that fails to address soaring gas prices and rising home heating costs:  \r\n\t\r\nWe are all touched by the magnitude of the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita in the Gulf Coast Region. The human and environmental costs of these disasters are unimaginable.\r\nBut as in any catastrophe, there is always somebody waiting in the wings to make a profit off of human misery and sufferingand yet again this Congress is willing to oblige.\r\nToday, once again it's the energy companies.\r\nWe just gave them over $12.8 billion in subsidies and tax breaks two months ago, but now they're back asking for more help. Why?\r\nThe top ten energy companies last year made over $125 billion last year, why should the American public be subsidizing this highly profitable industry?\r\nOnce again, instead of allowing us to take a real stand to address our short and long term energy needs, the rules committee has reported a restrictive rule that rejects consideration of many amendments which would have made this bill much better.\r\nThe bi-partisan Boehlert Markey amendment for example would have raised the country's fuel economy standards to 33 miles per gallon and saved over 2.6 million barrels of oil a day by 2025. But despite a recent survey indicating that 86 percent of American favor an increase in fuel economy standards, the Rules committee prevented consideration of this important and effective amendment.\r\nWe were prevented from considering the Gas Price Spike Act of 2005, offered as an amendment by Rep. Kucinich, Hinchey, Grijalva and myself, which would have discouraged price gouging by implementing a windfall tax on oil and gasoline profits.\r\nAnd we were also prevented from considering the Larson/Slaughter amendment which would have put an end to gasoline price discrimination based on location, creating a free market for gasoline dealers.\r\nInstead of another giveaway to big business, we need to send this administration a reality check.\r\nOur current energy strategy will only further increase our dependence on oil. We must break this chain by implementing a strategy of energy independence.\r\nI urge my colleagues to vote for a new strategy instead of more of the same. Oppose the rule, and support the Stupak substitute to increase penalties for oil price gouging and do develop a Strategic Refinery Reserve.  \r\n\t\r\n###\r\n\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-blasts-gop-gas-bill-as-an-industry-giveaway-and-an-attack-on-the-environment", "Barbara Lee Blasts GOP Gas Bill as an Industry Giveaway and an Attack on the Environment", "2005-10-06", "2005", "2005-10", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.06.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Blasts GOP Gas Bill as an Industry Giveaway and an Attack on the Environment \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) spoke out forcefully on the House floor today against H.R.3893, the Republican Gasoline for America's Security Act of 2005 that the House will debate and vote on tomorrow.  The following are her remarks: Mr. Speaker, Republicans in Congress lost no time in turning the tragedy of hurricane Katrina into an opportunity to enrich their friends in the oil industry at the expense of the American people. The Gasoline for America's Security Act of 2005' should be called the Second Energy Special Interest Act of 2005.' Energy companies got $12.8 billion in subsidies and tax breaks just two months ago.  Now, Republicans are giving them a bill filled with the measures that were too objectionable to go in the first time around. This bill is a polluter-friendly giveaway that has nothing to do with helping hurricane victims or securing America's energy needs. Not only does this bill do nothing for Americans facing soaring gas or home heating prices, it guts clean air protections and undermines the Environmental Protection Agency. Only the profit-soaked oil and gas companies win with this bill.  The rest of us are stuck paying higher energy prices in the short run and the incalculable long term costs that will result from compromising our environment and failing to achieve energy independence. ###   \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lees-statement-for-the-congressional-record-on-hr-3824-an-effort-to-gut-the-endangered-species-act", "Barbara Lee's Statement for the Congressional Record on H.R. 3824, an Effort to Gut the Endangered Species Act", "2005-10-02", "2005", "2005-10", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.02.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee's Statement for the Congressional Record on H.R. 3824, an Effort to Gut the Endangered Species Act \n\t\t\tMr. Speaker, on September 29, 2005, I was unable to take part in roll call vote 506, the vote on final passage for H.R. 3824 because I was attending a constituent funeral. Had I been present, I would have voted nay.' Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to H.R. 3824, which is a threat to the recovery of endangered species.   Mr. Speaker, the original Endangered Species Act was signed into law by President Nixon in 1973 with the goal of protecting species on the brink of extinction, preserving critical habitats from human development and exploitation, and safeguarding the diversity of our natural wildlife for future generations. This bill would redefine the entire concept of the Endangered Species Act to protect the short term economic interests of western landowners and developers. Instead of working to protect threatened or endangered species and their habitats for the benefit of everyone, the Federal government would now be driving the extinction of countless species-and your tax dollars would be paying for it. We've got to ask ourselves who really needs to be protected here?Is it our planet, our future? Or is it the right of some developer to build a strip mall? I urge my colleagues to vote against this cynical attempt to gut the endangered species act. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lees-statement-on-the-supreme-court-nomination-of-harriet-miers", "Barbara Lees Statement on the Supreme Court Nomination of Harriet Miers", "2005-10-02", "2005", "2005-10", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.02.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee's Statement on the Supreme Court Nomination of Harriet Miers  \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement today on the nomination of Harriet Miers to replace Justice Sandra Day O'Connor as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States:\r\n\r\n\r\nPresident Bush selected and the Senate confirmed a true conservative to replace a conservative Chief Justice.  Justice O'Connor is an independent and pragmatic conservative, and the Senate must ensure that President Bush is not attempting to shift the court to the right by replacing her with someone committed to a far-right ideology.\r\n\r\nSince she has no judicial experience for the Senate to consider, the burden is significant on Harriet Miers to explain what her judicial philosophy will be and to directly answer questions about whether she shares the commitment to protecting the individual rights and freedoms that Justice O'Connor so often cast the deciding vote to defend.  In this regard, it will be incumbent upon her to be more forthcoming about her positions than Judge Roberts was during his confirmation process.\r\n\r\n ###  \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-condemns-bennetts-racist-remarks", "Barbara Lee Condemns Bennetts Racist Remarks", "2005-09-30", "2005", "2005-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.30.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Condemns Bennett's Racist Remarks \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement today in response to former Reagan administration Secretary of Education, Bill Bennett's recent racist remarks.  Bennett, on his nationally broadcast radio show on Wednesday, said: You could abort every black baby in this country and your crime rate would go down.  That would be an impossible, ridiculous, and morally reprehensible thing to do, but your crime rate would go down. I join my colleagues in condemning Bill Bennett's statement that you could reduce crime in this country by aborting black babies.  He should apologize immediately for this reprehensible remark. I am also concerned that the Bush administration could not say anything more about these comments than that they were not appropriate.'  Was the forced sterilization of black women also not appropriate?'  President Bush's recent acknowledgement of the role that racial discrimination played in contributing to the devastation of hurricane Katrina means little if he does not forcefully condemn such discrimination today.  Sadly, these remarks are not an anomaly.  They are representative of an attitude that continues to fuel discriminatory policies. As we struggle as nation to confront the issues of race and class that Hurricane Katrina has brought again to the fore, these remarks serve as a reminder of how far we still have to go, and why we must come together with a renewed commitment to fighting prejudice and promoting opportunity. ### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-opposes-gutting-the-endangered-species-act", "Barbara Lee Opposes Gutting the Endangered Species Act", "2005-09-29", "2005", "2005-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.29.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Opposes Gutting the Endangered Species Act \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement, condemning H.R.3824 as an effort to gut the Endangered Species Act today: The original Endangered Species Act was signed into law by President Nixon in 1973 with the goal of protecting species on the brink of extinction, preserving critical habitats from human development and exploitation, and safeguarding the diversity of our natural wildlife for future generations. This bill would redefine the entire concept of the Endangered Species Act to protect the short term economic interests of western landowners and developers. Instead of working to protect threatened or endangered species and their habitats for the benefit of everyone, the Federal government would now be driving the extinction of countless species, and our tax dollars would be paying for it. We've got to ask ourselves who really needs to be protected here?  Is it our planet, our future? Or is it the right of some developer to build a strip mall?  I urge my colleagues to vote against this cynical attempt to gut the endangered species act. ###   \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lees-statement-on-the-indictment-of-tom-delay", "Barbara Lee's Statement on the Indictment of Tom DeLay", "2005-09-29", "2005", "2005-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement on the indictment of House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-TX) by a Texas grand jury on charges of criminal conspiracy:\nThe indictment of Tom DeLay is just further evidence of the culture of corruption and cronyism that has come to permeate Washington under Republican leadership.\nThe fact is that the Senate Majority Leader is under investigation by the SEC, a top White House official in charge of government procurement was arrested, President Bush's top advisor Karl Rove continues to be investigated for his role in the outing of an undercover CIA agent and ongoing revelations in the case of lobbyist and DeLay crony Jack Abramoff suggest that there are plenty more of the same kind of scandals, just waiting to come to light.\nRepublicans took over the majority in 1994 by promising to clean up Washington.  Ten years later, it's clear they've done just the opposite, at the expense of the American people.  Now it is clear that they are more concerned with protecting themselves and their own than dealing with the pressing issues that face our nation.\nAs long as Republicans continue to put cronies and special interests ahead of the American people, the results will be taxpayer money being spent on unfair contracts, higher prices at the pump, and no relief to the survivors of hurricanes Katrina and Rita.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/security-experts-join-bipartisan-call-for-plan-to-withdraw-troops", "Security Experts Join Bipartisan Call for Plan to Withdraw Troops", "2005-09-27", "2005", "2005-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.27.05\n\t\t\t Security Experts Join Bipartisan Call for Plan to Withdraw Troops  \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) and Democratic and Republican colleagues were joined by Lt. Gen. (ret.) William Odom, former Director of the National Security Agency, and Dr. Christopher Prebble, the Cato Institute's Director of Foreign Policy Studies and a founding member of the Coalition for a Realistic Foreign Policy, in speaking out in support H.J. Res. 55, bipartisan legislation calling for the President to announce a plan for withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq at a press conference on Capitol Hill today.  The following is her statement: The fact is that a majority of Americans and a growing number of Members of Congress believe that it was a mistake to invade Iraq. What's more, two-thirds of Americans now believe that it's time for U.S. to start bringing our troops home, and there is growing bipartisan support for that sentiment. This bipartisan resolutionH.J.Res. 55takes the important step of demanding that the President present a withdrawal plan by the end of this year and start bringing troops home by October 1, 2006 at the latest. This war has claimed the lives of tens of thousands, it has cost us hundreds of billions, and it has made our country and the world less safe. As the daughter of a veteran, let me tell you we must support our troops, and the best way we can support them is by bringing them home, and when they come home, let's make sure they all come home.   The human cost of this war has been terrible.  It has undermined our nation's standing and made the world less safe, but this war is also sowing destruction right here at home.  Hurricane Katrina has shown the world what you and I have long known: that America should be fighting poverty at home, not an unnecessary war in Iraq. So we must end this war, and we must ensure that the most vulnerable among us do not continue to be collateral damage. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in bringing our  troops home and focusing on the pressing business of rebuilding America. ### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/lee-decries-vote-against-naming-post-office-for-local-leader", "Lee Decries Vote Against Naming Post Office for Local Leader", "2005-09-26", "2005", "2005-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.26.05\n\t\t\t Lee Decries Vote Against Naming Post Office for Local Leader \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)    Today, in a contentious vote, the House voted 215-190 against HR 438, legislation introduced by Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) to name the post office building at 2000 Allston Way in Berkeley after former Berkeley City Councilmember and Vice-Mayor, Maudelle Shirek.   Maudelle Shirek is a woman whose leadership, service and commitment to our community are a testament to what is great about our nation, and she deserves to be honored, said Lee.   That a Republican from Iowa could launch a campaign to deny naming a local post office after this 94 year old civil rights leader, who until recently was the oldest and one of the longest serving elected officials in California, is just shameful. Mr. King's campaign of innuendo and unsubstantiated concern' is better suited to the era of Joe McCarthy and J. Edgar Hoover than today's House of Representatives. A granddaughter of slaves, Shirek left her rural Arkansas home and came to California in the middle of World War II.  She was active in campaigning for fair housing and other civil rights for African Americans.  She helped found two Berkeley senior centers, and until her health started to slow her down, she helped deliver meals to shut-in seniors. Shirek entered elected politics in 1983 after being forced to retire from a senior center for having reached the age of 72.  Soon after her election to Berkeley City Council, she helped end the discriminatory policy of mandatory retirement in Berkeley city agencies.  Until she stepped down last fall, she was the oldest and one of the longest-serving elected officials in California.  She turned 94 in June. ### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-addresses-anti-war-rally-in-dc", "Barbara Lee Addresses Anti-War Rally In DC", "2005-09-23", "2005", "2005-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.23.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Addresses Anti-War Rally In DC \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)    On Saturday, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) addressed tens of thousands of Americans gathered in Washington DC to call for an end to the war in Iraq.  The following are excerpts from the text of her remarks: My friends, it is past time to bring an end to this unjust, unnecessary war in Iraq. It has claimed the lives of tens of thousands, it has cost us hundreds of billions, and it has made our country and the world less safe.  As the daughter veteran, let me tell you we must support our troops, and the best way we can support them is by bringing them home.    The human cost of this war has been terrible.  It has undermined our nation's standing and made the world less safe, but this war is also sowing destruction right here at home. Hurricane Katrina has shown the world what you and I have long known: that America should be fighting poverty at home, not an unnecessary war in Iraq. So we must end this war, and we must ensure that the most vulnerable among us do not continue to be collateral damage. Who do you think will pay the price for the $250 billion dollars we have spent in Iraq thus far?  Will it be Bush's wealthy friends, with their tax cuts? Will it be the oil companies, with their price gouging?  Of course not.  The cost of this war will fall on those who can least afford it.   Look at the record: The Bush administration has deserted the 45 million Americans without health insurance.  They have abandoned 37 million people to poverty, here in the richest nation in the world.  They've ignored Osama bin Laden, but they're going to cut Medicaid and food stamps to pay for this war in Iraq.  I ask you, is that what America should look like? Lee, the most senior Democratic woman on the House International Relations Committee and Co-Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, voted against authorizing the President to use force in Iraq and offered a substitute measure that would have required renewed weapons inspections and diplomacy.  She has authored a bill, H.Con.Res. 197, to make it US policy not to have permanent military bases in Iraq.  She has also led efforts to demand answers to the questions raised by leaked British memos as to whether the Bush administration fixed intelligence in order to justify the invasion of Iraq, and introduced a bill to renounce the doctrine of preemptive war. ### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-vows-to-continue-to-push-for-poverty-legislation-as-black-caucus-convenes-national-town-hall-on-poverty", "Barbara Lee Vows to Continue to Push for Poverty Legislation As Black Caucus Convenes National Town Hall on Poverty", "2005-09-21", "2005", "2005-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.21.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Vows to Continue to Push for Poverty Legislation As Black Caucus Convenes National Town Hall on Poverty \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)    Today, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) vowed that she will continue to push for legislation to address the growing issue of poverty in the United States, as Senators Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton addressed the Congressional Black Caucus National Town Hall Meeting on poverty as part of the CBC Annual Legislative Conference. We must demand that the President demonstrate that he will not continue to ignore the issue of poverty, said Lee. But we must also make sure that that Congress stops turning a blind eye to poverty as well. Today, Lee announced that she will introduce legislation that will require Congress to report on the poverty impact of its legislative activities.   Lee has been outspoken in calling attention to the issues of poverty and race that contributed to the tragedy in the wake of hurricane Katrina.  Last week she introduced legislation calling on President Bush to develop a plan to eradicate poverty in the United States. We have all seen the devastating impact that turning a blind eye to poverty has caused, and it is clear that we cannot afford to continue to look away, said Lee.  We cannot proceed blindly, hoping that Congress' actions aren't hurting people, we need to know exactly what the poverty impact of our actions will be.   ### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-urges-calpers-board-to-act-to-stop-darfur-genocide", "Barbara Lee Urges CalPERS Board to Act to Stop Darfur Genocide", "2005-09-18", "2005", "2005-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.18.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Urges CalPERS Board to Act to Stop Darfur Genocide \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland), California State Treasurer Phil Angelides and human rights advocates on Monday called on the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) to use the power of its $180 billion investment portfolio lead a national effort to push corporations to stop doing business in Sudan in order to increase pressure to end the genocide in Darfur, where government troops and janjaweed Arab militias have murdered, raped, and terrorized millions of black Sudanese. Lee, who is the most senior Democratic woman on the House International Relations Committee, is a leader in the growing national movement to divest public pension funds and university endowments from companies doing business in Sudan.  The following are excerpts from her testimony before the CalPERS Investment Committee:  In January, I traveled to the region with a Congressional delegation and we were joined by Academy Award nominee, Don Cheadle, from Hotel Rwanda and his real life counterpart, Paul Rusesabegina.  The horror of what we witnessed was something I will never forget, and it only strengthened my conviction that we have a moral obligation to do everything within our power to bring this murder, rape, and carnage to an end.  We cannot let another Rwanda happen on our watch.  One critical component to ending this genocide is stripping away the impunity the Khartoum regime derives from the business of companies operating in Sudan.  No one should have to worry that their pension fund is supporting genocide. As the Senior Democratic woman on the House International Relations Committee and a member of the Subcommittee on Africa Global Human Rights and International Operations, I have been deeply involved in developing our nation's response to the ongoing genocide in Darfur.I have also been active in Congress in support of the growing national movement to divest public pension funds and university endowments from companies doing business in Sudan.  On July 21, 2005, the House International Relation's Subcommittee on Africa met to consider HR 3127, the Darfur Peace and Accountability Act. The legislation that passed out of committee included three amendments that I authored.  The first two amendments praised the state of Illinois for its recent divestment legislation and encouraged other states to follow its example, and commended Illinois, New Jersey and other states for their efforts to curb investments in Sudan.  The final amendment would prohibit companies doing business in Sudan from trading in U.S. capital markets.It has been almost a year since I first contacted CalPERS, requesting the identification of companies doing business with the Khartoum government.  In that time some 100,000 people died of disease and famine alone.  While some have been shamefully slow in taking any real decisive action to divest, Universities like Stanford and Harvard have exercised moral leadership by taking action. As we will here from Ms. Test today, Stanford responded to its students' demands by divesting in companies doing business in Sudan and Harvard responded to a similar student-lead campaign by divesting in PetroChina, whose parent company is closely tied to the Khartoum government.  State legislatures have taken action, too. To date, two states, Illinois and New Jersey, have passed legislation divesting their state pension funds from companies doing business in Sudan.  It is far past time to bring a serious financial component to our efforts to end this tragedy, both to cut off the impunity that allows the Khartoum regime to thumb its nose at the world, and to remove the complicity of innocent pensioners in its doing so. CalPERS has an admirable record as a voice of social conscience, and it is my hope that CalPERS will lead the way in these efforts. Because we must be clear: it is morally incumbent upon each of us to do everything within our power  whatever it takes  to end the rape, murder and suffering in Darfur.  Let me highlight two important points: First, CalPERS must acquire a comprehensive list of the companies doing business in Sudan.  Such lists are available for a minimal fee, and should provide a solid point of departure in what I hope will be a comprehensive, ongoing effort. Furthermore, it should be noted that it is neither the responsibility, nor would it be appropriate for the federal government to produce such a list.  The Security and Exchange Commission was very clear on this point in responding to a similar request for companies doing business in countries that are state sponsors of terror.  They said: \"It would be inappropriate for us to publish a list of companies who securities might be deemed to involve terrorism-related investment risk without publishing corresponding lists for every other possible type of investment risk. It also would be inappropriate for us to engage in any activity that might be construed as providing investment advice.\" In light of the existing availability of such information, efforts to require the federal government to reproduce it in an \"official\" form can only be viewed as an attempt to delay or defer substantive action. Secondly, divestment must be an option.  CalPERS enjoys significant sway in the financial community, and we all hope that companies doing business in Sudan will remove such business at CalPERS urging.  However, the degree of CalPERS commitment to ending this genocide and its credibility on this issue will be measured, in the final analysis, by its willingness to sell the shares of companies that do not respond to CalPERS requests in this regard. Finally, I recognize that the day to day operations of financial institutions are far removed from the immediacy of the violence on the ground in Darfur.  Nonetheless, I encourage you not to lose sight of the human face of this tragedy, particularly when CalPERS can do so much to bring about its end.  Now is the time for CalPERS to put our money where our values are. We cannot wait another year, we must act boldly and with the sense of urgency that genocide requires. We must act now.   ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/lee-bill-on-aids-orphans-will-move-to-floor-for-vote", "Lee Bill on AIDS Orphans Will Move to Floor for Vote", "2005-09-15", "2005", "2005-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.15.05\n\t\t\t Lee Bill on AIDS Orphans Will Move to Floor for Vote \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)   Today, Congresswoman Barbara Lee applauded the House International Relations Committee for approving the Assistance for Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Developing Countries Act of 2005.  The bill, introduced by Lee and designed to provide a comprehensive US response to the continuing global problem of orphaned and vulnerable children, is now cleared for a vote in the full House while deliberations are underway on a companion measure in the Senate. This is a positive step and I hope the House and Senate will work quickly to provide a more effective US response to the global crisis facing orphans and vulnerable children, said Lee.  The spread of AIDS has only added to the urgent necessity to provide care for the world's most vulnerable populations, and I look forward to working on a bipartisan basis with my colleagues in the House and Senate to pass this bill and help these children. According to a joint report by UNAID, UNICEF and USAIDS released in July, 2004, a child is orphaned by AIDS every 14 seconds.  There are more than 143 million children living in Sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean who were identified as orphans having lost one or both of their parents.  The rapid growth of the HIV/AIDS virus in Africa and throughout the developing world has dramatically impacted the number of children who are newly becoming orphans.  With parents dying at an alarming rate, children are left without food, shelter, education, or protection. The bill establishes the position of Special Advisor for Orphans and Vulnerable Children within the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to better coordinate and provide assistance in support of basic care; treatment for HIV-infected children; psychosocial support; school food programs; educational opportunities through the elimination of school fees; and inheritance rights for orphans and vulnerable children. A similar bill was introduced in the Senate in February by Senator Richard Lugar (R-IN), Chairman of the Senate International Relations Committee.  Last year, the House passed Lee's bill, but a similar measure in the Senate did not reach a vote.   Lee's accomplishments in promoting effective, bipartisan measures to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS and bring treatment to the infected have earned her recognition both at home and abroad as a leader in the fight against HIV/AIDS.  Lee was a leader in the bipartisan effort to designate $15 billion for the prevention, care, and treatment of HIV/AIDS, TB, and malaria.  She authored the bill to establish the framework for the Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS and sponsored legislation that allows impoverished countries to purchase generic, cheaper HIV/AIDS drugs. ### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-cosponsors-bill-to-create-dept-of-peace", "Barbara Lee Cosponsors Bill to Create Dept. of Peace", "2005-09-14", "2005", "2005-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.14.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Cosponsors Bill to Create Dept. of Peace \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)    Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) Co-Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, joined Dennis Kucinich (D-OH) and other members of Congress today to reintroduce legislation that would establish the United States Department of Peace. The quagmire in Iraq is a perfect example of the failure the Bush administration's doctrine of preemptive war and the idea that we can rely exclusively on military solutions to international problems, said Lee.  From the war in Iraq to the genocide in Sudan, there is a clear need for a government body that will create and implement policies that support peaceful resolution. The legislation, which Congressman Kucinich introduced in the 107th and 108th Congresses, would create a cabinet-level office called the Department of Peace.  The Department would have both an international and domestic influence, directing policy concerned with peaceful conflict resolution, democracy, and human rights globally and coordinating policy on domestic violence, abuse, and other civil injustices domestically. The legislation would also establish a Peace Academy, modeled after the military service academies, which will provide a four-year concentration in peace education. Graduates will be required to serve five years of public service in programs dedicated to domestic or international non-violent conflict resolution. Dr. King said that peace is not the absence of tension, it is the presence of justice,' said Lee.  This isn't something we should just hope for, we must work for it.  We must dedicate the resources, and establishing a cabinet level Department of Peace is an important step towards doing that. There are currently 57 Cosponsors of the legislation. ### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lees-statement-in-response-to-president-bushs-speech-on-hurricane-katrina", "Barbara Lee's Statement in Response to President Bush's Speech on Hurricane Katrina", "2005-09-14", "2005", "2005-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.14.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee's Statement in Response to President Bush's Speech on Hurricane Katrina \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC) Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement in response to President Bush's speech about relief and reconstruction efforts in the wake of hurricane Katrina: \"I am glad that the President has indicated that he will commit significant federal resources to rebuilding the Gulf Coast. \"However, if the President means to make good on his commitment to take responsibility' for his administration's failures in responding to Katrina, then he must demonstrate an equal commitment to tackling the systematic problems of poverty and institutional racism that contributed to the magnitude of this tragedy. \"The problem with the administration's response was not simply the failure to react to the hurricane in a coherent or competent manner. It was the tragic, longstanding failure to acknowledge the massive structural crisis that poverty and inequality pose for our nation and the stubborn refusal to conceive of any constructive role for our government in addressing it. \"Americans have shown enormous generosity and courage in responding to this tragedy, and we are committed to rebuilding America as one country. Katrina revealed how different our fates can be, depending on our means and the color of our skins. This moment should galvanize us the way 9/11 did, and we should be recommitting ourselves to making America a united country, where everyone has a genuine chance of achieving the American dream. \"Unfortunately, the President has given no indication that he committed to doing the work to create such a united America, and without a commitment to address systematic problems of poverty and inequality, I fear that all the federally funded reconstruction will be built on a rotten foundation.\" ### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/lee-bill-on-fixed-pre-war-intelligence-sparks-debate-on-oversight", "Lee Bill on Fixed Pre-War Intelligence Sparks Debate on Oversight", "2005-09-14", "2005", "2005-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.14.05\n\t\t\t Lee Bill on Fixed Pre-War Intelligence Sparks Debate on Oversight \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA) emphasized the need for Congressional oversight and called on the Bush administration to respond to evidence that pre-war intelligence was fixed to justify the invasion of Iraq as the House International Relations Committee debated and voted on H.Res. 375, a Resolution of Inquiry introduced by Lee.   The U.S. is currently at war in Iraq under an authority conferred to President Bush by the U.S. Congress, said Lee.  It is not only Congress' prerogative, it is our responsibility to make sure that the authority to use force was not granted under circumstances that were deliberately misleading. Lee's Resolution, which had bipartisan support and 82 cosponsors, would have required the Bush administration to give Congress all information relating to communication with officials of the United Kingdom relating to U.S. policy in Iraq between January 1, 2002 and October 16, 2002, the date Congressional authority to use force in Iraq became law.  The measure was a privileged resolution, meaning if it was not taken up by the International Relations Committee in a defined period of time, Representative Lee would have been entitled to request that it be brought to the House floor for a vote.   The resolution prompted heated debate about the role of Congressional oversight in relation to the war in Iraq, and while the committee voted against the resolution, the vote marked the first time all committee Democrats have agreed on a vote relating to Iraq, and even drew the support of Republican James Leach of Iowa (Ron Paul (R-TX) voted Present). The former Sec. of State of the United States Colin Powell stated that it was a blot on his record that he misused intelligence, said Rep. Leach (R-IA), speaking in favor of the Resolution.  I don't want a blot on the Congress' record that we refused the most vigorous oversight of the most extraordinary foreign policy initiative of the last generation, an initiative that at this moment in time appears to have enormously consequential and frail implications for our national security, and I am just hard pressed to do anything except support this inquiry despite the rather powerful statement of the Chairman. On May 1, 2005, The Sunday London Times published the leaked minutes from a US-British meeting on July 23rd, 2002.  The Downing Street Memo, as the minutes came to be known, as well as other documents that came to light subsequently, have raised serious questions as to whether the Bush administration manipulated intelligence data in order to justify the invasion of Iraq; the UN weapons inspection process was manipulated to provide a legal pretext for the war; and doubts as to whether the Bush administration had adequately considered the consequences of invading Iraq.  The Bush administration has not disputed the authenticity of these documents. Since the publication of the memo, 120 Members of Congress have written the President, asking for answers to the questions it raises.  Rep. Lee and Rep. John Conyers (D-MI) delivered more than 575,000 petition signatures to the White House, demanding answers.  To date the White House has refused to respond to these inquiries. ### Opening remarks by Rep. Tom Lantos on H. Res. 375, Resolution of Inquiry About the Downing Street Memo Mr. Chairman, while the attention of our nation has been riveted on nature's fury and sickeningly tragic pictures from New Orleans, the war in Iraq continues unabated. Our courageous soldiers and those of Iraq are fighting shoulder-to-shoulder to stop fundamentalist terrorists and to provide stability for the fledgling Iraqi democracy.  Mr. Chairman, the men and women carrying out the mission in Iraq are our constituents, and every member of this body fully supports them. We owe it to them  and to of all our constituents  to develop a complete picture of the decision-making that led the United States to go to war to bring down the regime of Saddam Hussein. And the Executive Branch owes it to the American people to make certain that their elected representatives are fully informed. For some of our members, reports of the so-called Downing Street memo have cast a cloud over the Executive Branch's decision-making and public declarations regarding Iraq. At a time when public support for the war is in decline, the refusal of the Executive Branch to do all it can to put these questions to rest only further undermines support.  This bill asserts an appropriate role for the Congress in the foreign policy process, and it provides the Executive Branch with the opportunity to put to rest doubts about its actions in taking our nation to war.  That is why I support this resolution, and urge all of my colleagues to do likewise. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lees-statement-on-the-anniversary-of-9/11", "Barbara Lee's Statement on the Anniversary of 9/11", "2005-09-08", "2005", "2005-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.08.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee's Statement on the Anniversary of 9/11 \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC) Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement regarding the fourth anniversary of the terrorists attacks of September 11th, 2001:\"As we remember the victims of the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001 and their families, our grief is refreshed by the anguish and loss of those impacted by hurricane Katrina. \"Four years ago, we were told that everything has changed.' Today, for too many people our reflection on this solemn anniversary is marred by a feeling of anger at our government's utter lack of preparedness to deal with this kind of catastrophe, and the indifference to the victims of this tragedy suggested by our government's shameful response. \"In much the same way that September 11th has changed our perception of ourselves in the world, hurricane Katrina should forever change the way that we look at ourselves here at home. This storm has torn down the curtain and exposed the bitter divide that poverty has wrought on our nation. Now that the poor are again visible, I hope that our nation has a similar moment of recognition, and that we can proceed with addressing issues of poverty and economic security in this nation with the same resolve that we fight terrorism and pursue international security in the world.\"### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-introduces-bill-calling-on-plan-from-bush-to-end-poverty", "Barbara Lee Introduces Bill Calling on Plan from Bush to End Poverty", "2005-09-05", "2005", "2005-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.05.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Introduces Bill Calling on Plan from Bush to End Poverty \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC) In the wake of the devastation of hurricane Katrina, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) introduced a bill calling on the Bush administration to create a poverty eradication plan.If anyone had any doubts that there are two Americas, hurricane Katrina and our government's shameful response to it have made the division clear for all to see, said Lee. The brutal truth is that people died in New Orleans because they were poor, and the indifference to the most vulnerable among us is not isolated to this tragedy, it is part and parcel of a systemic problem that our nation must overcome. Nearly 30 percent of the population of New Orleans was living below the poverty line. 21 percent of the households earned less than $10,000 a year. 84 percent of the people living in poverty in New Orleans were black. Overall, almost 36 million Americans are living below the poverty line, which the Census Bureau defines as $14,680 per year for a family of three. More than 15 million are living in extreme poverty, which is defined as less than half of poverty income. Lee's bill affirms the obligation of the United States to improve the lives of the millions of Americans living in poverty and extreme poverty, and calls upon President Bush to submit a plan to eradicate poverty by 2010. Since President Bush took office, the number of poor people in America has grown by 17 percent. In 2002-2003 the number of children living in extreme poverty grew by half a million. That is the real state of the ownership society, said Lee. America has been shocked by the images that have exposed this terrible divide in our nation. It is up to us now to decide whether our government has a responsibility to help improve the lives of the millions of Americans who are living in poverty, or whether we will abandon them to the dirty water to fend for themselves. ### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-expresses-outrage-over-administrations-slow-response-to-katrina", "Barbara Lee Expresses Outrage over Administration's Slow Response to Katrina", "2005-09-02", "2005", "2005-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.02.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Expresses Outrage over Administration's Slow Response to Katrina \n\t\t\t(Oakland, CA)  In a statement issued Friday September 2nd, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) lambasted the Administration's slow response and lack of action to help the Gulf Coast communities destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. \"The slow response to the needs of the people in the areas hit hardest by Hurricane Katrina is inexcusable. We had several days advance notice that the Hurricane was coming, but where was the preparedness? Why weren't the hospitals, schools, and seniors evacuated immediately? Is this is an example of the Administration's idea of homeland security? If so, we are in trouble.  \"If ever anyone doubted that there were two Americas, this disaster has made this division clear. The victims have largely been poor and black. The devastation from Hurricane Katrina only underscores the disastrous consequences of the Administration's failure to take even the most basic steps to alleviate poverty in the United States. The Administration can not ignore this reality.  \"Furthermore, has the Administration shortchanged homeland preparedness, in favor of funding a misguided war in Iraq and tax cuts for the wealthy? What other critical services, such as funding for levees, have been cut from the budget to fund this war? Now is the time for Congress to aggressively pursue oversight hearings. We need answers. \"I have been in close contact with the congressional members from the states affected by Hurricane Katrina and have heard from the American Red Cross. We all agree that it is time for our country to work together and help those who have so little and have lost so much.  \"I call on President Bush and FEMA Director Michael Brown to follow through on their promises and deploy immediate emergency aid. Furthermore, I challenge the President to address this national catastrophe with the same resolve as he did in leading America into the war in Iraq. \"I am working with private citizens, business leaders and  places of worship within my district as well as fellow congressional members to deliver immediate assistance to the victims of Hurricane Katrina.  For example, I am working with the California State University, the University of California, the Peralta Colleges, and local universities to find space for displaced students. On Wednesday, September 7, 2005 at the Ronald V. Dellums Federal Building at 1301 Clay Street in Downtown Oakland, from 8- 8pm, we will be collecting supplies and accepting donations for the relief. For more information, please visit www.house.gov/lee or call 510-763-0370. ### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/statement-of-congresswoman-barbara-lee-in-response-to-the-nomination-of-john-roberts-for-the-supreme-court", "Statement of Congresswoman Barbara Lee in Response to the Nomination of John Roberts for the Supreme Court", "2005-07-19", "2005", "2005-07", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "07.19.05\n\t\t\t Statement of Congresswoman Barbara Lee in Response to the Nomination of John Roberts for the Supreme Court \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC) - Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) offered the following statement in response to the nomination of John G. Roberts Jr. to be the next Supreme Court Justice:President Bush has chosen John G. Roberts Jr. as a nominee to be the next Supreme Court Justice to replace Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. The Senate will now review carefully the record of Justice O'Connor's replacement to guarantee that this person respects the rights and freedoms of all Americans and will judge cases fairly, with an open mind, and without a political agenda. Based on a preliminary review of available records, I have some serious concerns about John Roberts' positions on fundamental reproductive freedoms, civil rights, the separation of church and state and protecting the environment and I hope that the confirmation process involves an in-depth review of this nominee and hearings that include both questions and answers. I will join my colleagues in the Congressional Black Caucus in carefully weighing Judge Roberts' record on issues of particular importance to the African American community, including affirmative action, civil rights, justice and equality. ###\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-condemns-london-bombings", "Barbara Lee Condemns London Bombings", "2005-07-06", "2005", "2005-07", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "07.06.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Condemns London Bombings \n\t\t\t(Oakland, CA)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) released the\r\n following statement in response to the bombings in London today:\r\n The people of our nation and the world are united in condemning these\r\n acts of wanton violence against innocent people.\r\n Today, our hearts are with the people of London and our thoughts and\r\n prayers go out to the victims of this violence and their families.\r\n \r\n ###\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-introduces-bill-to-prevent-permanent-bases-in-iraq", "Barbara Lee Introduces Bill to Prevent Permanent Bases in Iraq", "2005-06-30", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.30.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Introduces Bill to Prevent Permanent Bases in Iraq \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)  Late Thursday evening, Congresswoman Barbara Lee\r\n introduced a bill to prevent the establishment of permanent bases in Iraq.\r\n We need to make it perfectly clear that there will be no permanent US\r\n military presence in Iraq, said Lee. An open-ended military presence in\r\n Iraq will only fuel the insurgency and make our troops more vulnerable.\r\n Lee's bill states that it is the policy of the United States not to\r\n enter into any base agreements with the Government of Iraq that would lead to a\r\n permanent United States military presence in Iraq. It was introduced with 34\r\n cosponsors and referred to the House International Relations Committee. Earlier\r\n this month, Lee introduced a similar measure as an amendment to the State\r\n Department Authorization bill during the International Relations Committee\r\n consideration of the bill.\r\n On April 13, 2004, President Bush said: As a proud and independent\r\n people, Iraqis do not support an indefinite occupation and neither does\r\n America.\r\n On February 17, 2005, Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, testifying\r\n before the Senate Armed Services Committee, said We have no intention, at\r\n the present time, of putting permanent bases in Iraq.\r\n The aim of this bill is to simply codify the sentiments expressed by the\r\n President and the Secretary of Defense that we will not have a permanent\r\n military presence in Iraq, said Lee.\r\n ###\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-works-to-lift-restrictions-on-student-travel-to-cuba", "Barbara Lee Works to Lift Restrictions on Student Travel to Cuba", "2005-06-30", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.30.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Works to Lift Restrictions on Student Travel to Cuba \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) sponsored a measure to lift restrictions on student travel to Cuba today.This is an issue of freedom for our students to travel and gain invaluable experience and educational opportunity that only international study-abroad programs can provide, said Lee. Lee's amendment to the Treasury-Transportation-Housing and Urban Development-Judiciary-DC (TTHUD) Appropriations bill, prohibited the use of funds to enforce regulations issued in June 2004 that affect students who study abroad or seek other educational opportunities in Cuba. The amendment was defeated by a vote of 187 to 233. Last year, the House passed Lee's amendment by voice vote, but it was stripped during conference process. The July 2004 regulations limited licenses to study abroad in Cuba to undergraduate and graduate students, shortened the duration of the license from two years to one year, required students who use an institution's travel license to be enrolled in that institution, and required courses of study at Cuban educational institutions to be at least 10 weeks in duration. As a result of the new regulations, over ninety percent of U.S.-Cuba exchange programs have now been cancelled and as a result the Emergency Coalition to Defend Educational Travel (ECDET), a group composed of nearly 400 professors from across the country, has been established to fight for American students' rights to travel. Lee will continue to push the new education regulations by pushing for congressional support of H.R. 3064, the Pursuit of International Education Act of 2005 (P.I.E). Like the amendment, this legislation will ensure that every American student is entitled to their piece of the P.I.E. Cutting off educational exchange simply doesn't make any sense, said Lee.  It limits the educational opportunities for U.S. students and shuts down fruitful intellectual and cultural exchange. In 1963, Attorney General Robert Kennedy sought to lift the U.S. travel ban to Cuba. He believed that the travel ban was inconsistent with our views of a free society. And now more than forty-years later, we are still wasting precious resources and time debating an outdated policy from a bygone era.\" ###    \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-leads-successful-fight-to-protect-fair-housing", "Barbara Lee Leads Successful Fight to Protect Fair Housing", "2005-06-29", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.29.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Leads Successful Fight to Protect Fair Housing \n\t\t\tHouse Passes Amendment to Restore HUD Funds    (Washington, DC)  Tonight, the House approved an amendment sponsored by Congresswoman Barbara Lee to restore funding to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in order to stop discrimination and enforce fair housing laws.Congress must work with HUD to ensure that they have the resources and authority needed to protect minorities and the disabled in public housing and prosecute those who have violated the civil rights of these individuals, said Lee. The amendment, which was co-sponsored by Representatives Al Green (D-TX), Alcee Hastings (D-FL), and Raul Grijalva (D-AZ), restored $7.7 million to the HUD Office of Fair Housing, which monitors discrimination complaints and enforces fair housing policy. It passed by a vote of 231-191. According to the National Fair Housing Alliance estimates, in 2004 there were over 1 million instances of discrimination against prospective minority renters and approximately 500,000 instances against potential minority home buyers. ###    \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/congresswoman-barbara-lee-among-nominees-for-nobel-peace-prize", "Congresswoman Barbara Lee Among Nominees for Nobel Peace Prize", "2005-06-29", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.29.05\n\t\t\t Congresswoman Barbara Lee Among Nominees for Nobel Peace Prize \n\t\t\t1000 Nominees from Around the Globe Highlight Women's Work for Peace     (Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland, CA) was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize today as part of an international effort to recognize the work of women around the word who promote peace.It's an honor to be included with all of these women who have done so much to promote peace on our planet, said Lee. I think that this project is doing an important job of highlighting the often overlooked work that women all around the world are doing every day to promote peace. Lee is one of 1000 women from more than 150 countries who were nominated jointly for the Nobel Peace Prize in an effort the organizers describe as an attempt to publicize the wealth of strategies, procedures for conflict resolution and methods of negotiation that women all over the world develop in order to deal with the various socio-political issues and problems in their respective regions. The number 10000 is symbolic of the innumerable women worldwide who are engaged in the cause of peace and human dignity. According to project organizers, Lee was nominated for being the only member of Congress to vote against the post-9/11 resolution giving President Bush unbridled power to use military force against anyone suspected of having committed the acts, for her leadership in promoting policies that foster international peace, security and human rights, her work promoting legislation to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS and promote treatment, and her longstanding advocacy for the most vulnerable, especially women and children. ### 14 from Bay Area up for peace prize They're selected to be among the '1,000 Women for Nobel' - Veronique Mistiaen, Chronicle Foreign Service Wednesday, June 29, 2005 London -- When organizers set out to find nominees for a project called \"1,000 Women for the Nobel Peace Prize 2005,\" they hit pay dirt in the Bay Area. Fourteen of the nominees -- a third of all the American women selected for the international project -- call the Bay Area home. The names of all 1,000 nominees for the project, which seeks to recognize the work of women as peacemakers, are to be announced this morning at press conferences in San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Hong Kong, Kabul, New Delhi, Boston and other locations across the globe. They have already been submitted to the Nobel Peace Prize Committee in Oslo, which will announce the Peace Prize winner this fall. Though the local nominees were chosen collectively for the Peace Prize, they are a pretty diverse group, reflecting what organizers conceded was \"a broad definition of peace.' Ellen Barry, for instance, is a prison rights activist and lawyer who speaks out for women in U.S. jails and prisons. Candi Smucker co-founded fair- trade stores to help workers of the world earn a living wage. Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Oakland, was the only member of either house of Congress to vote against the post-Sept. 11 resolution giving military force powers to President Bush. \"It's an honor to be included with all these women who have done so much to promote peace in our planet,\" said Lee, who was selected not only for that vote, but for her work on AIDS, housing and homelessness, ending genocide, education, health care and other issues. The idea behind the project, organizers said, was to find 1,000 exemplary women to collectively receive the Nobel Peace Prize, representing the millions of nameless women all over the world who work for justice, education, political rights and security. The project originated in Switzerland in March 2003, when Ruth-Gaby Vermot-Mangold, a member of the Swiss Parliament and the Council of Europe, visited refugee camps in Bosnia, Chechnya and other war-torn countries. \"Everywhere I meet courageous and resolute women who perform reconstruction and peace work in extremely dangerous circumstances,\" she said. \"Yet their work leaves scarcely any trace. I wanted to render visible the work of these women.\" Since the Nobel Peace Prize was first awarded in 1901, all but 12 of the recipients have been men. During 2004, the Swiss team and 20 international coordinators -- influential women from all continents -- searched the globe and collected thousands of candidates, from whom they selected the 1,000 nominees. They are farmers, teachers, activists, artists and politicians. They come from more than 150 countries and work at all levels of society. \"We chose women working in armed conflict zones, but also those doing work in health, family planning, sexual orientation advocacy, environmental activism and sustainable economic development,' said international coordinator Margo Okazawa-Rey, former director of the Women's Leadership Institute at Mills College in Oakland, who was responsible for finding nominees in North America, Japan and Korea. \"It is our conviction that there is no peace without justice, so we included nominees in many aspects of the justice work,\" she said. \"We also tended to highlight women who have been at it for a while, who have a distinguished track record, who broke new ground, who inspired others, who showed courage, vision and integrity.\" The $3.8 million project is funded through foundations, institutes and individuals, mainly in Switzerland. From across the United States, 114 candidates were proposed, and 40 women made the final cut, including 14 from the Bay Area. \"We tried very hard to get candidates from most regions of the U.S., but none were as active as in the Bay Area -- typical of activism and the kind of women living here,\" Okazawa-Rey said. The Bay Area nominees are a multiracial group of philanthropists, artists, grass-roots activists, academics and political figures. Barry has worked for 28 years with female prisoners, their children and families. \"In working toward a world that does not look to imprisonment and torture as the first response to keeping the 'have nots' in their place, we are working toward peace,\" Barry said. \"Without a system of justice that all of the population can believe in and accept as equitable and fair, the U.S. will never be able to achieve peace within its borders and will never be able to defend a position of peace around the world.' Smucker is the co-owner of Baksheesh fair-trade stores in Sonoma and Healdsburg. \"In my work growing fair-trade retailing in the U.S., I have found that the greatest change happens from the ground up,\" Smucker said. \"When I have the opportunity to visit artisans whose goods we sell and ask them what difference our purchases make in their lives, I know that every drop of purchasing we can do contributes to an ocean of change.\" The project's team is putting together a book about the lives, strategies and visions of all the nominees and a 1,000 postcards exhibition, with photos, short biographies and testimonies. \"This is one of the most inspiring projects I have been involved in,\" said Okazawa-Rey. \"Both my students and I are often overwhelmed by the dire conditions facing the world. This project demonstrated that thousands, millions of women -- as well as men -- in the world are out there, struggling against great odds, under threat, to make it a better place for us all.' For more information, see www.1000peacewomen.org. The names will be announced at 9 a.m. today at the Women's Building, 3543 18th St., San Francisco. _____ 14 women Bay Ar", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-says-bush-has-no-credibility-no-plan-for-iraq", "Barbara Lee Says Bush Has No Credibility, No Plan for Iraq", "2005-06-28", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.28.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Says Bush Has No Credibility, No Plan for Iraq \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) offered the following statement in response to President Bush's speech on Iraq tonight:The President misled the American people about this war, and he has no credibility on Iraq. There were no Weapons of Mass Destruction. There was no connection between Saddam and al Qaeda. There was no post war planning, and our nation is less safe as a result. The last time he got up in front of the troops and addressed the nation on Iraq he said mission accomplished.' Since then, more than 1600 US troops have died. Why should the American people believe him now? The President needs to get honest with the American people about Iraq. Not even Republicans believe the insurgency is in its last throes.' It is time for the President to level with us and offer a clear plan for how to stabilize the situation on the ground and bring our troops home. He got us into this mess, and he needs to get us out. In 1999, George W. Bush criticized President Clinton for not setting a timetable for exiting Kosovo. He said: Victory means exit strategy, and it's important for the president to explain to us what the exit strategy is.' Later that year, he elaborated: I think it's also important for the president to lay out a timetable as to how long they will be involved and when they will be withdrawn.' Tonight, he failed to live up to the standard he himself set. He offered the American people no plan, no benchmarks or exit strategy, and that only underscores his lack of credibility when it comes to Iraq. ###\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/house-approves-barbara-lees-effort-to-stem-arms-to-haiti", "House Approves Barbara Lees Effort to Stem Arms to Haiti", "2005-06-28", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.28.05\n\t\t\t House Approves Barbara Lee's Effort to Stem Arms to Haiti \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)  Tonight, the House approved by voice vote a measure introduced by Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) that will end free arms transfers from the United States to Haiti.The Haitian National Police are intimidating, murdering, and executing the poor and political opposition with weapons transferred free of charge from the United States to the Government of Haiti, and this is simply unacceptable, said Lee. The measure, which Lee was joined in introducing by Representatives John Conyers (D-MI), Maxine Waters(D-CA) and Carolyn Kilpatrick (D-MI), was an amendment to the Foreign Operations Appropriations bill, and requires a limitation on all transfers of excess property to the Government of Haiti in order to stop State Department transfers of free, excess arms and ammunition from the United States to the Haitian National Police force. Since 2004, as many as 3,000 weapons have been transferred to Haiti free of charge from the United States, and in all probability have gone to arm the Haitian National Police force. The United Nations and human rights groups have expressed concern about the involvement of Haitian police in political violence and human rights abuses. The United States must not be complicit in helping to arm criminals and human rights abusers, said Lee. This amendment is about accountability and saving Haitian lives and the House has taken an important step in protecting human rights by approving it. ###\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/progressive-caucus-launches-the-progressive-promise", "Progressive Caucus Launches The Progressive Promise", "2005-06-28", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.28.05\n\t\t\t Progressive Caucus Launches The Progressive Promise \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC) - The Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) unveiled their core principles and priorities at a reception this evening on Capitol Hill. Billed as an alternative to the Bush Administration's \"Ownership Society,\" the CPC's \"Progressive Promise\" outlines an action agenda under the broad principles of \"fighting for economic justice and security in the US and global economies,\" \"protecting and preserving civil rights and civil liberties,\" and \"promoting global peace and security.\"\"'The Progressive Promise' represents a blueprint for a Progressive governing majority and a vision for what a Progressive America can and will accomplish,\" said CPC Co-Chair, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland). \"It is a moral document that has its priorities straight: it puts the basic needs of people above corporate greed, it safeguards and promotes our best democratic principles, and it offers a vision of US leadership in the world.\" We are in the midst of a Progressive awakening in this country and I have never been more confident and optimistic about the future of Progressive Politics, said CPC Co-Chair, Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey (D-Petaluma). Rep. Barbara Lee and I look forward to working with the Democratic Caucus in leading a forceful, impassioned and organized opposition to the Bush Administration's agenda. The 59 members of the Congressional Progressive Caucus were honored at a reception co-hosted by an array of national progressive organizations, including the Institute for Policy Studies, The Nation Magazine, Moveon.org, National Priorities Project, Jobs with Justice Campaign, Peace Action, Americans for Democratic Action, and Progressive Democrats of America. Also co-sponsoring the event were the NAACP, ACLU, Progressive Majority, League of United Latin American Citizens, Rainbow/Push Coalition, National Council of La Raza, Hip Hop Caucus, Human Rights Campaign, Association of Farmworker Opportunity Programs, and the Hip Hop Political Convention. Americans know that Bush's Ownership Society' is just another way of dismantling the social safety net, said Woolsey. The Progressive Promise' sets out a vision that is plain and simple: the needs of Americans come before the desires of the powerful and wealthy. \"The Progressive movement in this country is growing and the Congressional Progressive Caucus is growing with it,\" said Lee. \"Progressives have forged new and powerful ways to join and influence the debate here in Washington, and the CPC will continue to engage this critical movement and to give voice to their concerns.\" ### THE PROGRESSIVE PROMISE: FAIRNESS FOR ALL    The Congressional Progressive Caucus offers the Progressive Promise for all. We believe in government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Our fairness plan is rooted in our core principles. It also embodies national priorities that are consistent with the values, needs, and hopes of all our people, not just the powerful and the privileged. We pledge our unwavering commitment to these legislative priorities and we will not rest until they become law.FIGHTING FOR ECONOMIC JUSTICE AND     SECURITY IN THE U.S. AND GLOBAL ECONoMIES. To uphold the right to universal access to affordable, high quality healthcare for all. To preserve guaranteed Social Security benefits for all Americans, protect private pensions, and require corporate accountability. To invest in America and create new jobs in the U.S. by building more affordable housing, re-building America's schools and physical infrastructure, cleaning up our environment, and improving homeland security. To export more American products and not more American jobs and demand fair trade. To reaffirm freedom of association and enforce the right to organize. To ensure working families can live above the poverty line and with dignity by raising and indexing the minimum wage.   2. PROTECTING AND PRESERVING CIVIL RIGHTS     AND CIVIL LIBERTIES. To sunset expiring provisions of the Patriot Act and bring remaining provisions into line with the U. S. Constitution. To protect the personal privacy of all Americans from unbridled police powers and unchecked government intrusion. To extend the Voting Rights Act and reform our electoral processes. To fight corporate consolidation of the media and ensure opportunity for all voices to be heard. To ensure enforcement of all legal rights in the workplace. To eliminate all forms of discrimination based upon color, race, religion, gender, creed, disability, or sexual orientation. 3. PROMOTING GLOBAL PEACE AND SECURITY. To honor and help our overburdened international public servants  both military and civilian. To bring U. S. troops home from Iraq as soon as possible. To re-build U.S. alliances around the world, restore international respect for American power and influence, and reaffirm our nation's constructive engagement in the United Nations and other multilateral organizations. To enhance international cooperation to reduce the threats posed by nuclear proliferation and weapons of mass destruction. To increase efforts to combat hunger and the scourge of HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and other infectious diseases. To encourage debt relief for poor countries and support efforts to reach the UN's Millennium Goals for Developing Countries.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-introduces-bill-supporting-national-hiv-testing-day", "Barbara Lee Introduces Bill Supporting National HIV Testing Day", "2005-06-27", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.27.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Introduces Bill Supporting National HIV Testing Day \n\t\t\tEncourages Members of Congress to Help Reduce the Stigma Related to HIV by Getting Tested    (Washington, DC)  Today, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) introduced a resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National HIV Testing Day in an effort to help stem the spread of HIV/AIDS.Testing saves lives and it is one of the simplest things we can do to help stop the spread of HIV/AIDS, said Lee. We have seen this epidemic continue to spread, particularly in the African American community, in part because people don't know that they are infected. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) the number of people living with HIV/AIDS in the United States recently surpassed 1,000,000and more than 25 percent of those who are infected are not even aware of it. Without knowledge of their HIV+ status each of these individuals could potentially spread the disease to countless others. Increasing the availability of HIV tests, especially rapid tests kits, and encouraging individuals to seek out voluntary counseling and testing can make a significant difference in reducing the spread of HIV. Unfortunately barriers to testing still exist, most significantly, the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS and the anxiety involving the test itself. In order to combat both these barriers, the National Association of People with AIDS, in conjunction with the Center for Disease Control, produces National HIV Testing Day, an annual campaign that culminates on June 27th. This year's theme is Take the test, take control, emphasizing the fact that just getting tested can produce behavioral change regardless of the diagnosis. Lee and several colleagues sent a letter to Members of Congress last week, encouraging them to consider visiting a local AIDS service organization to discuss the importance of getting tested and to publicly get tested themselves. Getting tested and talking about how important it is can go a long way towards reducing the stigma and anxiety around HIV, and can encourage others to get tested as well, said Lee. For more information, or to find a local testing site, visit the CDC's website at: http://hivtest.org/. ###   \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/house-approves-barbara-lees-bill-to-create-caribbean-american-heritage-month", "House Approves Barbara Lees Bill to Create Caribbean American Heritage Month", "2005-06-27", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.27.05\n\t\t\t House Approves Barbara Lee's Bill to Create Caribbean American Heritage Month \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)  Today, the House of Representatives approved H.Con.Res 71, a bill introduced by Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) to designate a national Caribbean-American Heritage month.Establishing Caribbean American Heritage month will celebrate the contributions of millions of Caribbean-Americans to the United States since the inception of the country, said Lee. Last week, Congresswoman Lee co-hosted the annual U.S. Caribbean Legislative Forum where His Excellency Fred Mitchell, Foreign Affairs Minister of the Bahamas delivered the keynote address, and Jamaican Ambassador Gordon Shirley, St. Lucian Ambassador Sonia Johnny, and Grenadian Ambassador Dennis Antoine moderated panels. Many other representatives of the Caribbean diplomatic corps, including recently-elected Assistant Secretary General of the Organization of American States, Ambassador Albert Ramdin, attended. This event is an example of annual programming for the June Caribbean-American Heritage Month celebration activities. As a member of Western Hemisphere Subcommittee of the House International Relations Committee and the bipartisan Caribbean Caucus, Rep. Lee wanted to recognize the role that Caribbean people and their descendants have played in the United States.   The Caribbean-American community is a true melting pot of languages, cultures, and people.  Alexander Hamilton, Hazel Scott, Sidney Poitier, Jean Michel Basquiat, Eric Holder, Colin Powell, Susan Taylor, Edwidge Danticat, Kelsey Grammer, Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, Roberto Clemente, Maryse Cond, Cicely Tyson, Harry Belafonte, Celia Cruz, Mervyn Dymally and Shirley Chisholm are just a few of the many Caribbean-Americans who have contributed to American government, politics, business, arts, education, science, and culture, said Lee. Their story is inseparable from ours. ###\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-hails-report-on-ohio-voting-problems", "Barbara Lee Hails Report on Ohio Voting Problems", "2005-06-22", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.22.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Hails Report on Ohio Voting Problems \n\t\t\tSays Reform is Essential to Restore Confidence in Democracy    (Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee welcomed the release today of a report on voting irregularities in Ohio during the 2004 Presidential elections and called for the implementation of measures to improve voting procedures and restore voters' confidence in the electoral process.This report on voting irregularities highlights grave problems that have plagued our voting process, both in Ohio and around the nation said Lee. Congress has a responsibility to take action to fix these problems and begin to restore voters' confidence in our democracy. The exhaustive five-month investigative study investigationof the troubled presidential election of 2004 in Ohio, conducted by the Democratic National Committee's Voting Rights Institute, concluded that the state's voters encountered widespread system failure, with more than a quarter of voters - and 52% of African Americans - reporting significant problems at the polls. According to the report, which was released at a news conference on Capitol Hill today, the systemic problems plaguing Ohio's voting process included: significant evidence of voter suppression, (we need to be prepared with examples of suppression documented by the report)negligent and poorly trained election officials, long lines, problems with registration status, polling locations, absentee ballots and provisional ballots and unlawful ID identification requirements at the polls. More than one in four %Ohio voters reported problems with voting, including ballot issues, and/or intimidation at the polling place. Identification requirements were improperly administered across Ohio, but young and African American voters were disproportionately affected. African American voters reported waiting an average of 51.8 52 minutes before voting, while voters overall reported waiting only 17.918 minutes. Nearly a quarter of Ohio voters report that their experience in 2004 has made them less confident about the reliability of elections in Ohio. The report offers 2023 recommendations for improving election administration across the nation. The proposed election reforms include: state codification of practices to ensure nondiscriminatory access to sufficient numbers of voting machines; adoption of legislation to establish clear and uniform standards? for voter registration; the creation and implementation of statewide voter lists  what does this mean  do you mean creation of statewide voter lists  that has to happen before implementation ; making voter suppression a criminal offense in all 50 states; requiring voting equipment vendors to make their source code publicly available for review by third parties; and the elimination of partisan election officials. The report also recommends that touch screen' voting machines not be used without verifiable paper trails, and advocates the use of precinct-tabulated optically scanned paper ballots that give each voter a chance to correct errors on the ballot. This isn't about challenging the results of the election, it's about making sure our democracy works, said Lee. This report establishes a solid factual foundation on which a comprehensive agenda of reforms can be built so that we can ensure that every eligible voter has the opportunity to vote and to have that vote counted. The full report is available online at: http://www.democrats.org/vri/ohioreport/index.html ###   \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-opposes-cut-for-public-broadcasting-funds", "Barbara Lee Opposes Cut for Public Broadcasting Funds", "2005-06-21", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.21.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Opposes Cut for Public Broadcasting Funds \n\t\t\tCites Local Impact of Cuts and Blasts GOP Efforts to Turn Public Broadcasting into FOX News    (Washington, DC)  Today, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) announced her strong opposition to a provision in the FY 2006 Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations bill coming to the House Floor this week that cuts FY 2006 funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting by 25 percent  cutting the appropriation from $400 million to $300 million.Public broadcasting is a national treasure, and I will fight against these GOP efforts to kill Big Bird said Lee. For millions of parents, public broadcasting represents a children's television network of unparalleled excellence and value. At a cost of just over $1 per year per person what parents and children get from free over-the-air public television and public radio is an incredible bargain. The provision in the bill would cut $100 million in federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, upon which it heavily relies. The Association of Public Television Stations has stated that these cuts are so drastic that they will severely impact every public television and radio station's ability to provide educational, cultural and informational programming in local communities and throughout the nation. Lee pointed out that the cuts would mean an estimated loss of over $5,726,474 for California broadcasters, and would negatively impact several popular Bay Area programmers. Estimated cuts in grants for Bay Area public radio and television: Radio TV KPFA FM, Berkeley, -$134,834 (-25.5%) KQED TV, San Francisco, -$650,132 (-24.4%) KALW FM, San Francisco, -$33,462 (-25.4%) KTEH TV, San Jose, -$227,742 (-24.4%) KQED FM, San Francisco, -$349,580 (-25.6%) KCSM TV, San Mateo -$162,851 (-24.4%) Lee, a member of the Media Reform Caucus and the Public Broadcasting Caucus, last week joined colleagues in sending a letter to CPB Chair Kenneth Tomlinson opposing the proposed appointment of former Republican National Committee Chair, Patricia Harrison as CPB President, protesting Tomlinson's efforts to convert public broadcasting into a mouthpiece for the republican Party and calling for a transparent and non-partisan selection process. The CPB responded by postponing the selection of the President. I will not stand by while Republicans alternately try to defund public broadcasting or turn it into FOX News, said Lee. As this bill moves forward, I will fight to have this damaging cut in funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting restored. ###\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-opposes-gop-un-reform-measure", "Barbara Lee Opposes GOP UN Reform Measure", "2005-06-17", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.17.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Opposes GOP UN Reform Measure \n\t\t\tCalls for Real Reform, Not Attempt to Dismantle UN    (Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee spoke out against the proposed GOP UN Reform bill and in favor of the democratic substitute offered by Ranking Member of the House International Relations Committee, Tom Lantos. The substitute was defeated 190-216, and the bill was passed 221-184 . Her statement follows:I thank the gentleman, my friend and colleague Mr. Lantos. I want to thank you for helping really to make some sense out of this entire UN reform effort with your substitute. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to the deeply flawed Hyde bill and support the Lantos bill. I am glad that we are having this debate on the floor today.  I think that it is a healthy debate.  I don't think anyone will argue with the fact that the UN is in need of reform.  But I question the end goal of this overall process in regard to the Hyde legislation. Is the aim of this effort for real reform' or is it the Republican Leadership's and I think it's cynical attempt to maybe begin to send the message to dismantle or even worse, begin to pull back or withdraw from the United Nations? I ask this because it seems very much in line with the public statements of the Administration's nominee for UN ambassador, Undersecretary John Bolton. As many have observed, the nomination hearings have shown just how much disdain Undersecretary Bolton has for the United Nations and the UN system.  What message does it send to our allies when such a nomination is made? Mr. Chairman, it is no secret that many of my colleagues on the other side are vocal critics of the United Nations.  But the Hyde bill turns criticism into contempt. The Hyde bill ensures that we return to arrears with the UN by requiring withholding of our dues for any one of a number of inflexible reasons.  In effect, it is my belief the Hyde bill sets up any UN reform effort to quite frankly fail.  There simply is no reason to link much needed UN reforms with the withholding of dues in such a drastic fashion. We should reform the United Nations but at the same time also work to support the important programs and initiatives of the UN. The fact is, Mr. Chairman, contrary to Undersecretary Bolton's assertions, the UN has made a difference in keeping the peace, diffusing conflicts and easing regional tensions.  But there's more that needs to be done.   The Lantos substitute acknowledges this. Our efforts should be with working with our friends to promote peace and security throughout the world.  The fact is, Mr. Chairman, the United Nations is needed now more than ever. How can our commitment to peace and democracy be taken seriously when the Administration's nominee has been quoted as saying such things as: The secretariat building in New York has 38 stories.  If you lost ten stories today, it wouldn't make a bit of difference.' Or If I were redoing the Security Council today, I'd have one permanent member because that's the real reflection of the distribution of power in the world.' It's also a dangerous and cynical message to be sending on the 60th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations. I find it incredible, Mr. Chairman that at a time when we have nuclear weapons and WMDs pointed in all directions, that we would be looking to withdraw from the family of nations.  It's simply a terrible message to be sending to the rest of the world. In an interdependent world like ours, international organizations like the United Nations should be recognized as an indispensable partner not only in the Administration's stated policy of spreading democracy throughout the world, but also helping us in securing our national security goals. So please support the Lantos amendment.  It does achieve what we need to do with regard to United Nations reform rather than try to blackmail to suit our political interests. ###\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/2005/06/16/barbara-lee-introduces-bill-to-create-national-passport-month", "Barbara Lee Introduces Bill to Create National Passport Month", "2005-06-16", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.16.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Introduces Bill to Create National Passport Month \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) introduced legislation today calling for the designation of September as National Passport Month.Traveling abroad promotes understanding and goodwill, said Lee. When people connect with other people, it opens the doors to increased peace, tolerance, and acceptance. The resolution supports the goals and ideals of National Passport Month and calls on the President to issue a proclamation on the federal government, states, localities, schools, nonprofit organizations, businesses, other entities, and the people of the United States to observe the month with appropriate ceremonies, programs, and activities. Through international travel, Americans can individually play a major role towards improving foreign relations by building bridges and making connections with citizens of other countries, said Lee. Less than 23 percent of Americans have passports, which prevents them from having the kind of life enriching experiences that traveling in other countries offers. ###\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-demands-answers-on-downing-street-memo", "Barbara Lee Demands Answers on Downing Street Memo", "2005-06-16", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.16.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Demands Answers on Downing Street Memo \n\t\t\tJoins Rep. Conyers in Delivering Letter to White House Asking for Answers    (Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) joined Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee, John Conyers (D-MI) in delivering to the White House a letter signed by more than 100 Representatives and more than 540,000 US citizens, calling on President Bush to answer questions raised by the Downing Street Memo as to whether the administration deliberately misled the nation into war with Iraq.This memo poses a serious question that remains unanswered: did the Bush administration deliberately mislead our nation and manipulate the intelligence data to justify a war they had already decided to wage? said Lee. Earlier in the afternoon, Lee participated in a hearing, called by Conyers, on the Downing Street Memo that featured former US Ambassador, Joseph Wilson, former CIA analyst Ray McGovern, Cindy Sheehan, whose son was killed in Iraq; and John Bonifaz, a renowned Constitutional attorney. After the hearing Lee and Conyers delivered the letter to the White House. The letter contained the following questions: Do you or anyone in your administration dispute the accuracy of the leaked document? Were arrangements being made, including the recruitment of allies, before you sought Congressional authorization to go to war? Did you or anyone in your administration obtain Britain's commitment ot invade prior to this time? Was there an effort to create an ultimatum about weapons inspectors in order to help with the justification for the war, as the minutes indicate? At what point in time did you and Prime Minister Blair first agree it was necessary to invade Iraq? Was there a coordinated effort with the US intelligence community and/or British officials to fix the intelligence and facts around the policy, as the leaked document states? Given the gravity of the questions raised, I think the Bush administration's silence speaks volumes. Our nation deserves answers, said Lee. ###\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-leads-minority-voices-in-opposing-cafta", "Barbara Lee Leads Minority Voices in Opposing CAFTA", "2005-06-15", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.15.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Leads Minority Voices in Opposing CAFTA \n\t\t\tSays Trade Deal is Worse than NAFTA, Calls for Renegotiation    (Washington, DC)  Today, Congresswoman Barbara Lee spoke out against the Dominican Republic-Central American Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) and called for its renegotiation at a press conference on Capitol Hill called by members of Congress who represent minority communities. Lee was joined by Representatives Hilda Solis (D-CA), Maxine Waters (D-CA), Raul Grijalva (D-AZ), Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio), Gwen Moore (D-WI), Dennis Kucinich (D-OH), Xavier Becerra (D-CA), and Sherrod Brown (D-OH). Also present were legislators from Central American countries who oppose the proposed trade deal. The following is Congresswoman Lee's statement:First, I would like to thank my colleagues for showing their solidarity and working to bring communities of color together against CAFTA. In particular, I would like to thank our colleagues from Central America for joining us today and standing up for democracy, fair trade, and human rights in opposition to CAFTA. CAFTA is anti-minorities, anti-labor, anti-health, anti-environment, and anti-democracy. In the U.S., African-American and Hispanic families were among the hardest hit by NAFTA ten years ago, and now we're looking at a trade agreement that includes more of the same devastating economic policies for all involved. If you look at the case of North Carolina, a traditional seat of Black farming, the total number of the state's farms decreased 5 percent between 1992 and 1997, but the decline for black-owned farms was 18 percent. Or in the case of textile mills and apparel manufacturing jobs, over 780, 000 were lost since NAFTA's enactment.   Although African-Americans represent 10.8 percent of the total U.S. workforce, they account for 18.8 percent of textile workers.  Latinos represent 12.6 percent of the total U.S. workforce, but account for 26% of textile and apparel industry workers. Now let's consider the effect of CAFTA on our friends and neighbors in Central America, especially Afro-descendant and indigenous communities; they, like minority communities here weren't even considered during the CAFTA negotiations.  Under CAFTA, corporations are given a powerful new weapon to pry open lands and resources currently in the hands of indigenous groups.  It is yet another example where the voices of workers and laborers have been stifled. And CAFTA would make access to medicines even more difficult for those who need it most in the region.  The intellectual property rights components of this agreement are designed to enrich pharmaceutical companies, even if that means denying lifesaving medications to those who suffer from HIV/AIDS and other diseases.  So who wins under CAFTA: huge multi-national corporations.  And who loses:  everyone else, especially the people we represent. CAFTA is a bad deal, and we need to go back to the table and renegotiate. ###\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-supports-changing-federal-medical-marijuana-law", "Barbara Lee Supports Changing Federal Medical Marijuana Law", "2005-06-15", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.15.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Supports Changing Federal Medical Marijuana Law \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) strongly supported a measure to change federal law to stop the prosecution of patients who are following doctors orders in states that permit the use of medical marijuana.The federal government has better things to do than prosecute sick people who are following their doctors orders and obeying state law, said Lee. Last week Justice Stevens suggested that Congress needed to act to change this law, and that is what this amendment is about. Ten states have adopted laws that allow the use of marijuana for medical purposes: Alaska, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Maine, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington. These laws were passed to allow the use of marijuana to relieve the intense pain and other symptoms that accompany several debilitating diseases, including AIDS, cancer, multiple sclerosis, and glaucoma. In spite of laws passed by the states, the DEA has conducted numerous raids on the homes of medical marijuana users, prosecuting patients who were using marijuana, in accordance with state laws, to relieve this pain, Lee said. Taxpayer dollars shouldn't be spent on sending seriously or terminally ill patients to jail. The measure was an amendment introduced by Representatives Hinchey (D-NY), Farr (D-CA), Rohrabacher (R-CA), and Paul (R-TX) to the Science, State and Judiciary Appropriations bill. There is nothing controversial about this amendment; it would allow relief for a small minority who are suffering from chronic pain or terminal illness, said Lee. This amendment it about compassion for people like Angel Raich, my constituent from Oakland, California who was a plaintiff in the recent Supreme Court case, who has been diagnosed with more than ten serious medical conditions including an inoperable brain tumor. ###\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-votes-to-repeal-section-of-the-patriot-act", "Barbara Lee Votes to Repeal Section of the PATRIOT Act", "2005-06-15", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.15.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Votes to Repeal Section of the PATRIOT Act \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) spoke in opposition to elements of the USA PATRIOT Act during debate on an amendment introduced by Rep. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) to the Science, State and Judiciary Appropriations Bill that would keep the government from accessing Americans' reading records without a traditional search warrant. Representative Lee voted for the amendment, which passed by a vote of 238-187. Her statement follows:I rise today in strong support of this amendment to repeal Section 215 of the USA Patriot Act and restore the freedom to read, and that's what this is about!  Millions of Americans including my constituents are especially incensed with the Section 215.  Under this provision of the Patriot Act, the FBI has the power to search for any tangible things (including books, records, papers, documents, and other items) in any location after showing minimal justification.  Across this nation, local governments representing more than 52 million people have denounced the entire Patriot Act and the unconstitutional invasion of privacy it represents. The Patriot Act was hastily-crafted and is far over-reaching.  It is contrary to the fundamental principles for which we stand, and Sec. 215 is especially chilling.  Families should not be afraid to check out children's books for fear that they may be investigated for collaborating with terrorists. Section 215 is Un-American! This is not the way to combat terrorism. ###\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-hosts-local-winner-of-congressional-art-competition", "Barbara Lee Hosts Local Winner of Congressional Art Competition", "2005-06-14", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.14.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Hosts Local Winner of Congressional Art Competition \n\t\t\tBerkeley High School Student's Artwork Displayed in US Capitol Exhibit    (Washington, DC) - Congresswoman Barbara Lee hosted Naomi Drexler, the Ninth Congressional District winner of the 21st annual Congressional Art Competition, An Artistic Discovery, for the opening of the exhibit at the US Capitol building today. Ms. Drexler's work, \"Eyes of Sorrow\" will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for the year-long exhibit sponsored by more than 300 Members of Congress.\"We are very proud to have Naomi's work represent our District in the Capitol during the Artistic Discovery exhibit,\" said Congresswoman Lee. \"This is a great opportunity to highlight the ways that art education can enrich the lives of our young people.\" More than 25 high school students from the Ninth Congressional District of California, which includes Albany, Ashland, Berkeley, Castro Valley, Cherryland, Emeryville, Oakland and Piedmont, entered the competition. \"Eyes of Sorrow\" was chosen in April to represent California's Ninth Congressional District by a panel of judges following a week long exhibit in Oakland. \"We must always remember that activities such as art, music and sports are essential to students' development and to our sense of identity, community, and pride,\" said Lee. \"This art contest is very important for our community because it supports artistic expression and rewards high school students for their outstanding accomplishments.\" ### PHOTOS AVAILABLE\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-haiti-arms-amendment-included-in-state-department-authorization-bill", "Barbara Lee Haiti Arms Amendment included in State Department Authorization bill", "2005-06-09", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.09.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Haiti Arms Amendment included in State Department Authorization bill \n\t\t\tAmendment will require State Department to shed light on weapons transactions from the U.S. to Haiti     (Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee today offered the Haiti Arms Report amendment to bring attention to the potential violation of the U.S. arms embargo to Haiti and the administration's approval of arms sales, transfers and license approval to U.S. private companies.  Lee received bipartisan support for the amendment which requires full disclosure from the State Department on weapons in Haiti and called on the administration to reconsider the current practice of arming the Haitian National Police (HNP) as the House International Relations Committee took up the State Department Authorization bill today.Just last year, the Bush Administration approved a transfer of nearly 3000 weapons to the Haitian National Police, said Lee.  If the goal is to create an environment of security and safety in Haiti, the United States cannot be complicit in arming the very criminals responsible for raping, murdering and torturing hundreds of Haitians. The Lee Haiti Arms Report requires an immediate report of all arms transfers, sales and licensing by the State Department.  The report will cover transactions from the date of the embargo, October 4, 1991 to 2005.        This amendment is about education and accountability.  Currently, the Bush Administration is set to approve over $1.7 million worth of licenses to Grifon Inc. to sell 3,000 .38 caliber revolvers, 500 9mm pistols, 500 12 gauge combat shotguns, 200 Mini-14 rifles and Bushmaster to sell 100 M4 carbines to the Haiti National Police, Government of Haiti,  said Lee.  I have no faith that these guns will be used to help Haiti or Haitians.  The measure offered by Lee, the senior Democratic woman on the House International Relations Committee, was approved unanimously in the committee. ###\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-proposes-amendments-to-state-dept-bill", "Barbara Lee Proposes Amendments to State Dept. Bill", "2005-06-08", "2005", "2005-06", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "06.08.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Proposes Amendments to State Dept. Bill \n\t\t\tOpposes Permanent Military Bases in Iraq, Calls for Exit Strategy    (Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee offered amendments to prevent the US from establishing permanent military bases in Iraq and calling on the Bush administration to articulate a clear exit strategy for Iraq during a wide ranging debate on US foreign policy as the House International Relations Committee took up the State Department Authorization bill today.On April 13 last year, the President said, as a proud and independent people, Iraqis do not support an indefinite occupation, and neither does America, said Lee. If the goal is a democratic Iraq, we do not need a permanent military bases, especially since the perception of a permanent occupation is fueling the insurgency. Addressing concerns that the credibility of the Iraqi government is undermined by the perception that it is beholden to a permanent US occupation, Lee offered an amendment to make it a statement of policy that the US will not enter in any agreements with the Iraqi government that will create permanent US bases in Iraq. The amendment won the support of several committee Republicans, but was defeated Lee also introduced an amendment, aimed at addressing the fact that ongoing US occupation is unifying and fueling the insurgency, that would have expressing the sense of Congress that the President submit to Congress a plan for the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq as soon as possible. The amendment was defeated by a vote of Three measures offered by Lee, the senior Democratic woman on the House International Relations Committee, were approved by the committee. Lee jointly introduced an amendment with Rep. Joe Crowley (D-NY) to increase funding for prevention of obstetric fistula. Additionally, Lee's amendment to increase famine assistance in Sub-Saharan Africa, and an amendment increasing the funding for minority recruitment for careers in the US foreign service and international affairs were both accepted during subcommittee debate on the bill. ###\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-criticizes-misplaced-security-priorities", "Barbara  Lee Criticizes Misplaced Security Priorities", "2005-05-25", "2005", "2005-05", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "05.25.05\n\t\t\t Barbara  Lee Criticizes Misplaced Security Priorities \n\t\t\tSays Defense Bill Does Not Address Real Threats     (Washington, DC)   Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) spoke out against misplaced security priorities as the House debated the Defense Authorization bill today.As the proud daughter of a veteran, I believe that our nation is best defended by funding priorities that make our nation and world safer.  This bill, I'm sorry to say, does not do that, said Lee.  What does it say about our priorities that this bill funds an $8 billion missile defense program that has consistently failed, will never protect us from terrorists, but shortchanges other critical security priorities that keep nuclear materials out of the hands of terrorists and protect our ports from terrorist attack? Lee supported an amendment to the bill, offered by Congressional Progressive Caucus Co-Chair, Representative Lynn Woolsey (D-CA), calling on the President to provide to Congress an exit strategy for the conflict in Iraq. Over two years have passed since this unnecessary war in Iraq began and the President has not offered the slightest hint of how long our occupation will last, said Lee.  The President needs to be honest with American people and tell us what his plan is to bring our troops home. Lee also supported an amendment offered by Representatives Susan Davis (D-CA), Jane Harman (D-CA) and Loretta Sanchez (D-CA), to lift the ban on privately financed abortions at US military facilities overseas. This common sense amendment allows these military women stationed overseas and their dependents to exercise the same rights as women in this country: the right to comprehensive family planning, including access to a safe, legal abortion, said Lee. Lee criticized Republican decision to rule out of order several amendments offered by Democrats including, one she authored to prevent the use of taxpayer funds from being used to overthrow democratically elected governments and another, offered by Representative John Spratt (D-SC) to increase funding for nuclear nonproliferation programs by shifting funds from missile defense.  ###\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-blasts-senate-deal-on-judges", "Barbara Lee Blasts Senate Deal on Judges", "2005-05-24", "2005", "2005-05", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "05.24.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Blasts Senate Deal on Judges \n\t\t\tCalls Compromise a Capitulation to Republican Bullying     (Washington, DC)   Congresswoman Barbara Lee blasted the deal brokered by 14 Senate Democrats and Republicans to avoid the nuclear option.  The deal provides for the confirmation of Janice Rogers Brown, Priscilla Owen and William Pryor and stipulates that the filibuster will be used on future judicial nominees only in extraordinary circumstances.  Congresswoman Lee's statement follows:While I understand and appreciate my Senate colleagues' desire to preserve Senate tradition and avoid the nuclear option, I join with Senator Feingold, Chairman Watt and many members of the Congressional Black Caucus in saying that the deal that was brokered was a bad one for the Senate and the American people. Simply stated, this was a capitulation to Republican bullying and abuse of power, and the outcome is unacceptable.  There is no question in my mind that the judicial extremism of Janice Rogers Brown, Priscilla Owen and William Pryor constituted extraordinary circumstances.'  Nonetheless, the right to filibuster their nominations has been given away.  I know that when it comes time to vote on their confirmation, Americans will be looking to Senators of both parties to reject them based on their extremist views. The question I have is: who will define what constitutes extraordinary circumstances?  I believe this deal weakens the filibuster and the principles of dissent and minority rights that it was designed to safeguard. The American people clearly understand that this whole exercise was a Republican abuse of power designed to water down our constitutional system of checks and balances and turn the Senate into a rubber stamp for the President.  I believe they will be very disappointed that our basic democratic principles have been so compromised. ###\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-supports-expanded-stem-cell-research", "Barbara Lee Supports Expanded Stem Cell Research", "2005-05-24", "2005", "2005-05", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "05.24.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Supports Expanded Stem Cell Research \n\t\t\tCites Disproportionate Impact of Diabetes on Minorities    (Washington, DC)   Today, Congresswoman Barbara Lee offered the following statement in support of H.R. 810,the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act, a bi-partisan bill to expand the number of embryonic stem cell lines for research:As an original co-sponsor of H.R. 810, I support the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act. I want to applaud my colleagues Rep. Castle and Rep. DeGette for working together to introduce this common sense bi-partisan measure. We know that our population is aging.  Debilitating chronic diseases like cancer, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and diabetes are becoming far more common. Diabetes in particular is a huge problem, and like many other diseases, minority communities are disproportionately affected by it. In my district in Alameda County, approximately 13.4% of African Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes compared to 4.5% of Whites.  And the diabetes death rates of Latino's and African Americans are as high as 2 - 2.5 times those of Whites. Expanding the number of embryonic stem cell lines available for research will assist scientists to develop therapeutic treatments and cures for diabetes and a range of other diseases. By passing this bill we will not only help to improve the health and well being of the public, but we will also help to eliminate future chronic health care costs and improve the health of our economy as a whole. I urge my colleagues to support this bill. ###    \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-and-congressional-black-caucus-deliver-letter-to-senator-frist-opposing-elimination-of-the-filibuster", "Barbara Lee and Congressional Black Caucus Deliver Letter to Senator Frist Opposing Elimination of the Filibuster", "2005-05-19", "2005", "2005-05", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "05.19.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee and Congressional Black Caucus Deliver Letter to Senator Frist Opposing Elimination of the Filibuster \n\t\t\tLetter Opposes the Nomination of Judges with Extremist Views on Civil and Human Rights     (Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) joined with her colleagues from the Congressional Black Caucus in delivering a letter to Senate Majority Leader William Frist (R-Tenn.) stating the CBC's opposition to eliminating the use of the filibuster and to the nomination of judges with extremist views on civil and human rights this morning.  The letter explained the irony of how the filibuster, which historically was used to block laws beneficial to African Americans, would now be changed to nominate judges with radical views that could be detrimental to African Americans.The text of the letter follows:  May 19, 2005 The Honorable William Frist Majority Leader United States Senate Washington, D.C.  20510 Dear Senator Frist:  As the Senate moves for the first time toward possible elimination of the filibuster, the 43 members of the Congressional Black Caucus believe that we have a special obligation to deliver this letter and attempt to speak to you personally about this issue.  We have also met with Democratic Senators to express our unanimous view that Rule XXII providing for extended debate on all Senate matters must be maintained. The Senate insisted that the minority rights of Senators were absolute when the filibuster was used for a hundred years almost exclusively to defeat the human rights of African Americans.  During all those years, Rule XXII was so impenetrable that despite the documented lynchings of 6,000 African Americans and the open and notorious denial of the right of African Americans to vote, proponents of their rights finally ceased trying to enact even the most essential bills  anti-lynching legislation after three attempts in the 1920s and 1930s and anti-poll tax legislation after three attempts in the 1940s.  All of the major legislation that today bars racial discrimination in voting, employment and housing was passed after filibusters, requiring cloture to obtain the necessary votes.  Racial filibusters continued in the 1970s, even for extensions of the Voting Rights Act and of Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act.   Southern Democrats almost always led the racial filibusters, but they were always joined by some conservative Republicans.  We recite this history to emphasize that minority rights in the Senate are no less important today than they were when the Senate insisted on the rights of the minority that delayed each and every attempt to enforce the 14th and 15th Amendments for a century.  The filibuster was systematically used when Senate minority rights meant the denial of the rights of African Americans.  We cannot and will not stand down when Senate minority rights are proposed to be over-ruled against a Senate minority that seeks to protect the rights of African Americans.  Today, when a minority of Senators seeks to protect African Americans from judges who have opposed their rights and laws critical to their advancement toward equality, the proposal to use an unprecedented procedure to jettison the Rule for the first time would be particularly offensive to people of color.  We believe that the unbroken tradition of fair treatment for the Senate minority must be respected regardless of the identity of the minority or of its issues.    Violating Senate rules in order to overturn Rule XXII is especially unacceptable to us today in light of the repeated and disproportionate use of filibusters against the nominations of Black, Hispanics and women nominees in the Judiciary Committee during the prior administration.  Despite President Clinton's collaboration with Senator Orrin Hatch and the resulting confirmation of some judges, 60 Clinton nominees were denied hearings or votes in the Judiciary Committee.  We expressed our deep concern at the time that a large portion of those who did not emerge from the Committee were nominees of color and women. We have looked closely at the records and expressed views of the disputed nominees.  We oppose their confirmation to the federal judiciary because their documented views on civil and constitutional rights are so extreme that they have been discredited and rejected by most Americans and because of their demonstrated hostility to the discipline of judicial precedent and to the laws Congress has passed to protect workers, women, persons with disabilities and the environment. You and other senators are entitled to differ with us on particular nominees.  The members of the Congressional Black Caucus believe that we are entitled to request that you respect the Senate rules that have never favored the Senate majority, even in the face of the tragic consequences that we know all too well. Sincerely, ______________________________            ________________________________ Melvin L. Watt                                                 Eleanor Holmes Norton Chair, CBC                                                      Judicial Nominations Chair, CBC All 43 of the Members of the Congressional Black Caucus ###    \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-slams-erosion-of-environmental-protections", "Barbara Lee Slams Erosion of Environmental Protections", "2005-05-19", "2005", "2005-05", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "05.19.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Slams Erosion of Environmental Protections \n\t\t\tCalls Republican Interior-Environment Appropriations Bill An Environmental Disaster     (Washington, DC)   Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) accused Republicans of endangering the health of the American public by weakening environmental protections and clean water funding during debate on the Interior-Environment Appropriations bill today.  Lee voted against the bill, which passed, 329-89.Once more we are forced to vote on an interior appropriations bill that is nothing less than an environmental disaster, said Lee.  It says a lot about the Bush administration and Republican priorities that they more concerned with tax cuts than making sure people have clean drinking water. The bill cut $241 million (22%) from the Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund (CWSRL), a program designed to help fund community efforts to treat waste water and provide clean drinking water.  California will lose $17 million.  Lee supported an amendment introduced by Representative David Obey (D-WI), to increase funding for the CWSRL by $100 million.  The amendment was defeated, 186-235. The bill also cut $215.5 million (3%) for the Environmental Protection Agency, on top of a $339.5 million cut last year. It is clear that the administration and the Republican Congress aim to weaken environmental protections, and gut funding to enforce the few protections that remain, said Lee.  We should be passing a bill that makes a strong commitment to protect our environment, our children's health and our future. Lee also supported an amendment introduced by Representative Nick Rahall (D-WV) to prevent funds in the bill from being used for the sale or slaughter of wild horses and burros living on federal land.  The amendment passed 249-159. ###\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-blasts-attempt-to-change-filibuster-rule", "Barbara  Lee Blasts Attempt to Change Filibuster Rule", "2005-05-17", "2005", "2005-05", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "05.17.05\n\t\t\t Barbara  Lee Blasts Attempt to Change Filibuster Rule \n\t\t\tJoins Hip Hop Caucus in Opposing Republican Abuse of Power    (Washington, DC)   Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA) blasted efforts to do away with the filibuster as another example of Republican party abuse of power at a press conference organized by hip hop and youth activists on Capitol Hill today.  Lee was joined by Representatives Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Stephanie Tubbs Jones (D-OH), Linda Sanchez (D-CA) and Kendrick Meek (D-FL) as well as representatives of the Hip Hop Caucus, a coalition that includes Rock The Vote, League of Pissed Off Voters, Citizen Change, Hip Hop Convention, Hip Hop Voices, Hip Hop Congress, Hip Hop Summit Action Network, and Black Youth Vote.  Her statement follows:I want to talk to you about abuse of power, because that is really what is going on here. Congressional Republicans continue to abuse their power here on Capitol Hill.  They have chosen a very partisan course, and we must fight back. Here in the house, for example, the Republican leadership ignored protocol and weakened the ethics rules in the House without ever consulting the Democrats.  Everyone here knows that ethics changes can't be successful unless both parties play a role.  Now Republicans in the Senate, not to be outdone by their counterparts in the House, plan to change the rules on the filibuster that have been in place for more than 200 years, rules that give the minority a voice in Washington.  Talk about an extreme abuse of power.  Republican attempts to do away with the filibuster are really about getting rid of the last check on one party rule here in Washington.  When are the Republicans going to learn that their absolute power here on Capitol Hill is really corrupting their every action?  Ending the filibuster threatens democracy by shutting down dissent. There is a lot of talk about spreading democracy abroad, but I think we need to begin by preserving it here at home.  That means protecting the minority party rights, ending this attempt to change the rules and stopping once and for all this egregious Republican abuse of power. ###\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-calls-for-investigation-of-torture-policy", "Barbara  Lee Calls for Investigation of Torture Policy", "2005-05-16", "2005", "2005-05", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "05.16.05\n\t\t\t Barbara  Lee Calls for Investigation of Torture Policy \n\t\t\tLetter to Gonzales Requests Special Counsel to Investigate Officials Responsible     (Washington, DC)   Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland), along with more than 50 members of Congress, sent a letter to US Attorney General Alberto Gonzales on Friday, calling on him to appoint a special counsel to investigate whether high-ranking Bush administration officials violated US and international law by allowing the use of prohibited torture techniques in Iraq, Afghanistan and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Over a year has passed since we learned of the horrors committed at Abu Ghraib and there has been no investigation of or any accountability for the architects of the policies that led to this abuse, said Lee.  Our nation's commitment to human rights and the rule of law has been called into question by these horrible abuses, and that undermines our national security - there needs to be accountability. The letter states that while enlisted soldiers and low-ranking officers have been disciplined for specific offenses, the pattern of abuse across several countries did not result from the acts of individual soldiers who broke the rules.  It resulted from decisions made by senior US officials to bend, ignore, or cast rules aside. The letter argues that a special prosecutor is required, not only because of the criminal nature of the abuses and the need for public accountability, but because an investigation by the Justice Department would present a conflict of interest. A special counsel is necessary not only because high-ranking administration officials, including Cabinet members, are implicated, but also because you personally, and the Department of Justice generally, may have participated in this conspiracy to violate the War Crimes Act, the letter states.  Lee signed on to a similar letter that was sent to Attorney General John Ashcroft in May of 2004, but received no reply. The text of the letter is available on the House Judiciary Committee Democrats website: http://www.house.gov/judiciary_democrats/letters/agspecialcounseltortureltr51205.pdf ###    \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/progressive-caucus-co-chairs-lynn-woolsey-and-barbara-lee-announce-the-hire-of-cpc-progressive-policy-advisor", "Progressive Caucus Co-Chairs Lynn Woolsey and Barbara Lee Announce the Hire of CPC Progressive Policy Advisor", "2005-05-16", "2005", "2005-05", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "05.16.05\n\t\t\t Progressive Caucus Co-Chairs Lynn Woolsey and Barbara Lee Announce the Hire of CPC Progressive Policy Advisor \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)   US Representatives Barbara Lee (D-CA) and Lynn Woolsey (D-CA), co-chairs of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC), announced today the hire of veteran Hill professional Bill Goold to be the Caucus' first full-time Progressive Policy Advisor.Bill will be an incredible asset to the Congressional Progressive Caucus, said Rep. Woolsey.  His legislative and grassroots experience will help our Progressive Caucus increase our visibility and move a progressive agenda forward on Capitol Hill. I am proud to announce that the Progressive Caucus will have its first full time staff member, Bill Goold, said Rep. Lee.  Bill will bring a wealth of both practical experience and commitment to progressive values to the position of Progressive Policy Advisor, and we are looking forward to working with him. Goold is an alumni of Oberlin College and George Washington University, and worked in Ohio state government before moving to D.C. in 1977, when he was hired for legislative work by U.S. Congressman Don Pease (D-Ohio).  Cumulatively, he has more than 26 years of experience working in Congress for U.S. Congressmen Pease, George Brown, Bernie Sanders, Rush Holt, and U.S. Senator Tom Harkin. Goold also worked as Senior Policy Advisor in the International Affairs Department of the AFL-CIO and Deputy Director for Global Programs in the AFL-CIO Solidarity Center. Hiring a full time staff person of Goold's qualifications is an important step in realizing Lee and Woolsey's vision of strengthening the CPC and making it a more effective voice for progressive values in Congress. As Progressive Policy Advisor, Goold will serve as the primary point of contact for the Democratic Leadership, Members of Congress and other caucuses on all Congressional Progressive Caucus issues.  He will also be charged with developing and implementing a comprehensive communications strategy and coordinating CPC policy outreach to progressive organizations. There is a growing number of people who are getting involved with politics because they are drawn to the basic principles of fairness and justice that the Progressive Caucus has long represented in Congress, said Rep. Lee. Adding a staff member of Bill's experience will allow the Progressive Caucus to more effectively continue our commitment to these principles, to build stronger connections with young people and communities of color and to strengthen the role of the Progressive Caucus in giving voice to this emerging progressive majority. Representative Lee and I look forward to bringing Bill Goold on-board, said Rep. Woolsey.  Bill's commitment to progressive values - social justice, fairness, and strengthening community - is clear.   He will bring fresh ideas to help re-energize the Congressional Progressive Caucus and re-energize the progressive wing of the Democratic party. This will mark Goold's second stint of staff service to the Progressive Caucus. He worked as part-time Staff Coordinator for the CPC while serving as Washington Staff Director for U.S. Congressman Bernie Sanders between 1994 and 1998.  During that period, CPC membership doubled to 60 members and the Caucus crafted The Progressive Promise, the first comprehensive, 10-bill alternative to the Contract with America. During his tenure on the Hill, Goold has focused on issues of social and economic justice and making respect for fundamental human rights, worker rights, and environmental sustainability a critical component of both domestic and foreign policy. I look forward to working with Caucus Co-Chairs Lynn Woolsey and Barbara Lee and all of the Progressive Caucus Members and staff to build a stronger progressive movement inside and outside of Congress with a clear alternative agenda that offers more hope and security to all, said Goold. ###    \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/after-planting-30-million-in-africa-nobel-laureate-plants-a-tree-at-the-capitol", "After Planting 30 Million in Africa, Nobel Laureate Plants a Tree at the Capitol", "2005-05-11", "2005", "2005-05", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "05.11.05\n\t\t\t After Planting 30 Million in Africa, Nobel Laureate Plants a Tree at the Capitol \n\t\t\tBarbara Lee and CBC Organize Historic Tree Planting with 2004 Kenyan Nobel Peace Laureate Wangari Maathai     (Washington, DC) - Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA) and Members of the Congressional Black Caucus joined 2004 Nobel Peace Laureate, environmentalist and women's rights leader Wangari Maathai in planting a Golden Rain Tree (Koelreuteria Paniculata) on the Capitol grounds today. Planting trees is a critical part of Wangari Maathai's work to foster peace, environmental sustainability, human rights and women's self-sufficiency, so it is appropriate that we honor that work and the principles that inform it by planting this tree here today, said Lee. Maathai was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004 for her contributions to sustainable development, democracy and peace.  In 1977, Wangari Maathai founded the Green Belt Movement, an environmental group that has helped women plant more than 30 million trees throughout Kenya.  The Greenbelt Movement provides a source of income to countless Kenyan women, and allows them to gain a degree of power over their lives by working to take back their environment and improving their quality of life, and has inspired similar organizations in Tanzania, Uganda, Malawi, Lesotho, Ethiopia, and Zimbabwe, among other countries. Professor Maathai was the first woman in East and Central Africa to earn a doctorate degree, the first female professor at the University of Nairobi, the first African woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, the first environmentalist to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Professor Maathai was elected to Kenya's parliament in 2002 with 98 percent of the vote.  Shortly thereafter in January of 2003, Professor Maathai was appointed by President Mwai Kibaki to the position of Assistant Minister for Environment and Natural Resources. The event was organized by Congresswoman Barbara Lee, the Congressional Black Caucus and the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation in conjunction with the Architect of the Capitol.  It was the first tree planted on the Capitol grounds to honor an African woman or a Nobel Laureate. ### ***PHOTOS OF THIS EVENT AVAILABLE, UPON REQUEST***\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-says-bush-slash-and-burn-forest-policy-hurts-america", "Barbara  Lee Says Bush Slash and Burn Forest Policy Hurts America", "2005-05-05", "2005", "2005-05", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "05.05.05\n\t\t\t Barbara  Lee Says Bush Slash and Burn Forest Policy Hurts America \n\t\t\tSlams Administration Changes to the Roadless Rule'     (Washington, DC)   Today, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) slammed Bush administration to National Forest Service rules in order to allow road building in millions of acres of previously protected national forest.\"This new rule is a travesty for our national forests.  By opening the door to new road construction, the Forest Service and the Bush Administration are putting the profits of logging and mining companies ahead of the health and stability of our natural environment, said Lee. The Forest Service's new State petition process replaces a 2001 rule promulgated under the Clinton Administration that placed a blanket restriction on road construction on 58.5 million acres of roadless areas managed by the National Forest Service.  Under the new rule, State governor's can petition the Forest Service for exemptions to the prohibition on new road construction, opening the door for increased logging, mining and other development on public lands.  More than 34.3 million acres of woodland could be immediately opened for new road construction, while new management plans for the remaining 24.2 million would first need to be developed before new roads could be built. We should be working to protect and preserve our forests and the wildlife that inhabit them for their own sake and for future generations to enjoy, said Lee.  Instead this administration has decided to parcel our national treasures out to the highest bidder, and that is just wrong.\" ###    \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-calls-for-universal-health-coverage", "Barbara  Lee Calls for Universal Health Coverage", "2005-05-04", "2005", "2005-05", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "05.04.05\n\t\t\t Barbara  Lee Calls for Universal Health Coverage \n\t\t\tCo-Sponsors Bills to Reduce the Number of America's Uninsured     (Washington, DC)   Today, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) called for health coverage for all Americans and announced that she is co-sponsoring three bills being aimed at reducing the number of America's uninsured by more than half.This week is Cover the Uninsured Week,' and there are almost 6.5 million people in California without health insurance, 300,000 more than when President Bush took office, said Lee.  Almost all of these individuals live in a household with at least one worker.  This is wrong and we need to act. Lee, who has long been a leading voice in the fight to make access to healthcare universal, said that she plans to reintroduce the United States Universal Health Service Act.  The measure, which would establish a United States Health Service (USHS) and provide health coverage for all Americans, was first introduced in 1978 by her predecessor, Rep. Ron Dellums, and has been a priority for Lee since her election in 1998. All Americans should have access to quality healthcare, and as we continue to fight for universal coverage, we must take steps to reduce the number of the uninsured, said Lee.  The three bills I am co-sponsoring are targeted to build on programs that already work and ensure that three fast-growing segments of the uninsured have access to affordable health coverage:  the nearly-elderly, low-income working parents, and small business employees. Lee noted that the three bills she is cosponsoring each target an important group.  The Small Business Health Insurance Promotion Act would create a 50 percent tax credit to help small businesses and the self-employed with the costs of health coverage.  Currently, over half of America's uninsured workers are self-employed or work for a small business with fewer than 50 employees.  The FamilyCare Act would lower costs and expand affordable coverage for working parents, by making the parents of children eligible for the State Children's Health Insurance Program and Medicaid also eligible for coverage.  These working parents frequently work at jobs that do not provide access to employer-based insurance.  And the Medicare Early Access Act would allow people between the ages 55 and 64 to purchase Medicare.  Currently, there are 3.5 million uninsured people age 55 and over who are not yet eligible for Medicare.  Together, these bills could cover over 23 million uninsured Americans. Millions of working, uninsured Americans go to bed every night worrying what will happen to them and their families if a major illness or injury strikes, said Lee.  This is a national scandal.  I will fight this year to try to ensure that Congress moves forward on this legislation  so that quality health coverage becomes available to millions more Americans while we continue the fight to make it available to all Americans.  It should be our highest priority. ###\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-praises-efforts-to-end-cuba-embargo", "Barbara  Lee Praises Efforts to End Cuba Embargo", "2005-04-26", "2005", "2005-04", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "04.26.05\n\t\t\t Barbara  Lee Praises Efforts to End Cuba Embargo \n\t\t\tMeets with Activists on Capitol Hill for Cuba Action Day    (Washington, DC)   Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland), met with Bay Area activists participating in Cuba Action Day and called for an end to the trade and travel restrictions with Cuba.It is time to get rid of the illogical and archaic travel and trade embargo on Cuba, said Lee.  This policy is clearly broken, and it is up to us to fix it. More than 700 activists gathered from around the country to participate in Cuba Action Day, an annual lobbying event aimed at urging members of Congress to end the Cuba embargo. Between 2000 and 2003 the House voted four times to lift travel restrictions to Cuba.  In 2003, the Senate approved a similar measure, but Republican staff removed it before it was considered in conference committee.  Despite these efforts in Congress, the Bush administration has consistently moved to tighten travel restrictions. We must continue to fight to get rid of the politically motivated restrictions and to end this unjust embargo, said Lee.  I will continue this fight at every opportunity. Lee has been working to end the forty year old embargo since working as a Congressional aid for her predecessor, Congressman Ron Dellums.  Last year the House passed Lee's amendment to the Transportation and Treasury Appropriations bill to end travel restrictions Cuba, but the language was again stripped in conference committee.  Lee also led an effort to allow American students to study medicine for free at the Latin American Medical School in Havana.  Last year, when the legal status of these students was threatened by election-year travel restrictions imposed by the Bush administration, Lee led a coalition that included members of the Congressional Black Caucus, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and the Congressional Progressive Caucus to delay the implementation of restrictions and eventually to create a special category that protected the student travel. ###    \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-issues-call-for-action-on-africa-malaria-day", "Barbara  Lee Issues Call for Action on Africa Malaria Day", "2005-04-24", "2005", "2005-04", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "04.24.05\n\t\t\t Barbara  Lee Issues Call for Action on Africa Malaria Day \n\t\t\tCalls for Increase in Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria    (Washington, DC)   Congresswoman Barbara Lee, on the occasion of Africa Malaria Day, issued a call for increased funding for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.As we recognize Africa Malaria day, we need to do more to combat this disease in Africa and throughout the world, said Lee.  The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria is the primary vehicle of US foreign assistance efforts to combat Malaria and Tuberculosis, and is a critical partner in the battle against AIDS. Later this week, Lee will send a letter, signed by more than 50 Representatives, to members of the House Appropriations Committee, calling for $6.7 billion in funding for global AIDS, TB, and malaria programs in FY06with at least $1.5 billion of that going towards the Global Fund. Malaria imposes its heaviest toll in Africa, where roughly 90 percent of the 1 million deaths from malaria worldwide occur each year. Africa Malaria Day 2005 marks the fifth anniversary of the Abuja Declaration, when senior representatives from 44 malaria-afflicted countries in Africa agreed to halve the world's malaria burden by 2010. In the developing world, HIV/AIDS is often compounded by co-infection with tuberculosis and malaria.  Due to a lack of available drugs to treat these diseases, TB and malaria are actually the leading killers of people living with HIV/AIDS. Last year, 1 million people died of malaria, 90 percent of who were children, while 2 million people died of TB. To date, the Global Fund has approved $3.3 billion in funding to over 300 grants in 127 countries.  31 percent of this money is expected to be spent on malaria.  The Global Fund has disbursed $1.1 billion, providing 1.35 million families with insecticide treated bed nets to prevent malaria and providing 300,000 people with the highly effective artemisinin combination treatment (ACT) for malaria. Lee authored the bill to establish the framework for the Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.  She was also a leader in the bipartisan effort to designate $15 billion for the prevention, care, and treatment of HIV/AIDS, TB, and malaria, and she is currently leading efforts in Congress to focus US foreign assistance on the impact of AIDS on orphans and vulnerable children in developing countries. ###\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-praises-green-business-slams-bush-on-earth-day", "Barbara  Lee Praises Green Business, Slams Bush on Earth Day", "2005-04-21", "2005", "2005-04", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "04.21.05\n\t\t\t Barbara  Lee Praises Green Business, Slams Bush on Earth Day \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)   Congresswoman Barbara Lee praised green business and criticized the Bush administration and Republican Congress' energy and environmental policies at an Earth Day press conference in Albany today to announce the launch of the Green Albany Project, an innovative effort to help small businesses save money by adopting environmentally friendly practices.  The text of her remarks follows:Good afternoon and thank you for that kind welcome.  It is my pleasure to be here in Albany with you and the Albany Chamber of Commerce on Earth Day to formally launch the Green Albany Project. Before I begin, let me first acknowledge some of my fellow elected officials who are also in attendance today: Assemblymember Loni Hancock, Alameda County Supervisor Keith Carson, and Albany City Councilmembers Farid Javandel and Robert Lieber.  I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for all that they do here in the 9th Congressional District, and applaud their efforts in supporting important and innovative projects like this one. I would also like to thank James Carter, the Executive Director of the Albany Chamber of Commerce for organizing today's event and for spearheading this project, which I know will have countless environmental and economic benefits for Albany and the 9th District.  It is with great pride that I join you today on the 35th Anniversary of Earth Day as we work to embody and celebrate this year's theme protect our children and our future, and as we announce the launch of the Green Albany Projecta project that is not only good for the environment, but good for business as well. As a former small business owner, I am very aware of the challenges small businesses face, particularly in today's economy.  And I'm proud to say that my district includes the active small business community here in Albany.  By launching the Green Albany Project, the Albany Chamber of Commerce is truly leading by example.  This Chamber, which itself was recently certified as a green business, is taking an active role in encouraging other businesses to operate in a way that is not only environmentally sustainable, but that will have tangible long-term benefits for businesses that participate. When businesses go green, they are able to save significant amounts of money.  For example, by recycling food scraps and paper waste instead of throwing them away, businesses will save money on their trash bill.  Through the Smart Lights Program, businesses can also significantly reduce their energy bill40-80% of which is typically made up by lighting. And when businesses take advantage of the conservation methods offered by EBMUD, they not only save water, but they also save on their water bill. It is exactly these kinds of progressive, innovative programs that we need to revitalize small business districts across the country, while protecting our environment, our children and our future. Unfortunately, the Bush administration and the Republicans in Congress do not share that far-sighted vision.  Instead, they continue to prioritize short-term corporate profits over the long-term environmental and economic health of our planet and our children. Just yesterday in the House of Representativesa day before one of the most symbolic and celebrated days in the history of the environmental movement, I had to vote against a cynical, environmentally irresponsible energy bill that was conceived by and for the energy industry in secret meetings with the Vice President. This pro-polluter bill includes more than $37 billion in giveaways to the oil, nuclear and coal industries.  It reinforces our dependence on oil, it opens pristine public lands like the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to drilling and it fails to provide a forward looking strategy to address our energy needs through alternative fuels, renewable energy, reduced consumption, or better fuel economy. This bill also poses a serious threat to the health of our children and our communities.  Just down the freeway in West Oakland, children are seven times more likely to get asthma than the average child in California due to the air pollution caused by diesel fuels. Instead of strengthening the Clean Air Act and punishing polluters, the Bush administration subsidizes them by eliminating polluter penalties, leaving children and families to pay the price for corporate violations and carelessness. This bill simultaneously attacks the Clean Water Act and endangers the health of our communities by postponing the ban on MTBE and preventing its manufacturers for being sued for polluting our groundwater. This bill is just another in a long series of attacks by this administration on our environment. Since President Bush took office, his administration has worked consistently to roll back environmental protections that have been in place for decades to protect our health and preserve our planet. Clearly we need to change the direction of environmental policy in Washington, and I hope we can capture the energy and activism of Earth Day to do that.  But we also need to pursue environmentally conscious, sustainable ways of living here at home. Even the simplest actions that we take on a daily basis can make a huge difference in the kind of world that we leave behind to our children. So I want to applaud the Albany Chamber of Commerce for having the foresight to understand the long-term economic benefits of going green, for actively working to involve local businesses and for setting an example that communities nationwide can follow. Again, thank you to those who have worked to get this project off the ground, and congratulations to the Albany Chamber of Commerce.  ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-blasts-cafta", "Barbara  Lee Blasts CAFTA", "2005-04-19", "2005", "2005-04", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "04.19.05\n\t\t\t Barbara  Lee Blasts CAFTA \n\t\t\tJoins Bipartisan Group Calling for Fair Trade     (Washington, DC)   Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) joined a bi-partisan group of lawmakers as well as labor, environmental and fair trade organizations at a press conference to express opposition to the proposed Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) on Capitol Hill today.  Her statement follows:The Central American Free Trade Agreement is bad policy, and I am proud to stand with Democrats and Republicans alike in opposition to this flawed proposal. CAFTA represents the effort to give corporations more power than countries and put profits before people.  Not only is CAFTA a job killer for American workers, it is bad deal for working people across this hemisphere.  It is bad for the environment, it is bad for the rule of law and it is bad for the principle of sovereignty.  When I was in the California Assembly, I served on the California State World Trade Commission and the District Export Council, and those experiences informed my perspective on what our trade policy should look like. We need a trade policy that supports domestic manufacturers, while promoting labor standards overseas. We need a trade policy that includes environmental protections and closes the loopholes corporations use to evade or supersede local regulation. Furthermore, we simply cannot ignore the devastating effect that the intellectual property rights section of CAFTA will have on access to medicines for Central Americans. Trade must be free and it must be fair, and CAFTA does not pass the test.  Not only do I intend to vote against this death sentence for American jobs, I will work very hard to convince my colleagues to vote against it as well. ###\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-opposes-anwr-drilling", "Barbara Lee Opposes ANWR Drilling", "2005-04-19", "2005", "2005-04", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "04.19.05\n\t\t\t Barbara Lee Opposes ANWR Drilling \n\t\t\tCure for Oil Addiction' is Conservation, Efficiency and Renewable Energy     (Washington, DC)   Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) spoke out today in favor of a bipartisan amendment to prevent drilling in the Artic National Wildlife Reserve (ANWR).  The amendment the Republican Energy Bill was introduced by Representatives Ed Markey (D-MA) and Nancy Johnson (R-CT).  Lee gave the following statement on the House floor:Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this bipartisan amendment. Mr. Speaker, opening up the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil and gas drilling is not the answer to our long-term energy needs. The fact is we are addicted to oil. The proponents of this bill would have you believe that the only way to cure an addict is to feed the addiction at whatever costregardless of the effect on the environment, wildlife, or the public health. As a former psychiatric social worker, I can tell you that does not work! Instead, we should be working to reduce our dependency by promoting energy efficiency and energy conservation, and funding research to develop and utilize clean and renewable sources of energy.  By allowing drilling in the Arctic Refuge we are spoiling a pristine natural environment, furthering our dependence on oil, and contributing to record high levels of asthma in my district in West Oakland, and throughout the country. So I applaud my colleague from Massachusetts (Mr. Markey-Democrat) and my colleague from Connecticut (Ms. Johnson-Republican) for offering this bipartisan amendment. I urge my colleagues to vote yes and I yield back. ###\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-calls-for-end-to-the-wage-gap-on-equal-pay-day", "Barbara  Lee Calls for End to the Wage Gap on Equal Pay Day", "2005-04-18", "2005", "2005-04", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "04.18.05\n\t\t\t Barbara  Lee Calls for End to the Wage Gap on Equal Pay Day \n\t\t\tCo-Sponsors the Equal Paycheck Fairness Act     (Washington, DC)  Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland), lauded the introduction of the Equal Paycheck Fairness Act, and called for an end to the disparities in pay between men and women on Equal Pay Day.It is time to end the wage gap between men and women, said Lee. Despite many positive changes in women's participation in the work force, the fact is that women continue to earn lower wages compared to men, and that is just wrong. In 2004, women still earned only 76 for every dollar earned by a man.  Women of color were worse off - African American women made 66 on the dollar compared to the highest earners, white men, while Hispanic women made only 54.  According to the National Committee on Pay Equity, working women stand to lose $250,000 over the course of their career because of unequal pay practices. The Paycheck Fairness Act, which was introduced today by Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Senator Hillary Clinton (D-NY) and co-sponsored by Lee, is designed to eliminate gender based wage discrimination and ensure that women will finally earn what men earn for doing the same job. This is a basic, common sense issue that affects all working women and their families, said Lee.  By getting rid of this unfair treatment in the labor market we are helping women and we are helping families. Equal Pay Day marks the date when the wages paid to American women \"catch up\" to the wages paid to men from the previous year. This year that day is April 19.  ###\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/barbara-lee-congratulates-university-of-california-on-winning-new-berkeley-lab-contract", "Barbara  Lee Congratulates University of California On Winning New Berkeley Lab Contract", "2005-04-18", "2005", "2005-04", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Barbara Lee", "L000551", "lee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "04.18.05\n\t\t\t Barbara  Lee Congratulates University of California On Winning New Berkeley Lab Contract \n\t\t\t(Washington, DC)   Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) offered the following statement on the Department of Energy's (DOE) announcement today that it will award a new five-year contract to the University of California to manage and operate its Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL):Congratulations to the University of California for winning the competition for continued management of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Berkeley Lab is an integral part of the economic and scientific well-being of California and the nation.  As Congress debates the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and as the country approaches the 35th Anniversary of Earth Day this Friday, I am particularly proud that Berkeley Laboratory is at the forefront of energy efficiency research that has been shown to provide substantial energy cost savings.  Today's decision by the Department of Energy is a reminder of the important contributions the University of California is making to the nation in providing the scientific and technological leadership necessary to manage the national labs.  ###\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 142, "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 \"year\" = :p1 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "House", "p1": "2005"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&year=2005", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 142, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&year=2005&party=Democrat", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&year=2005", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 142, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?year=2005", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&year=2005", "results": [{"value": "CA", "label": "CA", "count": 142, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&year=2005&state=CA", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&year=2005", "results": [{"value": "2005", "label": "2005", "count": 142, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2005-04-18,https~3A~2F~2Flee~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fpress-releases~2Fbarbara-lee-congratulates-university-of-california-on-winning-new-berkeley-lab-contract", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&year=2005&_next=2005-04-18%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Flee~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fpress-releases~2Fbarbara-lee-congratulates-university-of-california-on-winning-new-berkeley-lab-contract&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 9.594667237251997, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}