{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"LA\" and year = 2018 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://richmond.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-richmond-statement-trump-government-shutdown", "Rep. Richmond Statement on the Trump Government Shutdown", "2018-12-22", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (D-LA) issued the following statement on President Trump's government shutdown:\n\nPresident Trump and congressional Republicans have placed our country in a shutdown that could have easily been avoided, Rep. Richmond said. They decided it was more important to put over 400,000 federal workers in jeopardy, many of whom will be forced to work without pay, all because he failed to get support over a wall that does absolutely nothing to keep Americans safer. Trump's wish for a government shutdown that he repeatedly asked for was finally granted while countless hard working civil servants will suffer this holiday season.\"\n\nEven the President's own Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney blasted his wall calling it absurd' and childish'. He even went on to say, The fence doesn't stop anybody who really wants to get across...You go under, you go around, you go through it.' Because of the Trump Shutdown, the landmark Violence Against Women Act has also expired. We have a responsibility to uplift and protect women in this country, and Trump, yet again, decided to undermine the group of people who are the very bedrock of our communities, families, and workplaces.\"\n\nWhen we enter the 116th Congress in the beginning of January, my Democratic colleagues and I will do everything in our power to reverse this senseless shutdown.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-richmond-introduces-comprehensive-affordable-housing-bill", "Rep. Richmond Introduces Comprehensive Affordable Housing Bill", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (D-LA) introduced the American Housing and Economic Mobility Act, a bill originally introduced in the Senate by United States Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). This bill will reduce rent costs and provide greater access to home ownership through first-time homebuyer payment assistance.\nHaving a home is one of the most essential human needs for thriving families and individuals, but many families long across the nation for far too long have been restricted from homeownership due to increasing rent prices and paychecks that don't match, said Rep. Richmond. The American Housing and Economic Mobility Act is a comprehensive bill aimed to combat the affordable housing crisis that continues to plague our nation. Having stable, affordable housing is life changing and brings the promise of economic freedom to all. This legislation aims to provide that for millions of American families, namely African American communities who have been historically and systematically left without stable housing. I applaud the work of Senator Warren on introducing this bill in the Senate and am honored to carry the torch in introducing it in the House.\nThe Housing FIRST Alliance would like to thank Congressman Richmond for stepping forward to introduce the American Housing and Economic Mobility Act, which is a promising move forward from disinvested communities across our country. Baton Rouge has been subjected to redlining for years, and we need legislation that will end unfair practices and enable all families to live better lives. We need as much assistance as possible to help Baton Rouge overcome the severe housing crisis. This bill viably helps address that issue. -Samuel Sanders, Executive Director of Mid City Redevelopment of Baton Rouge, Louisiana\nHousingNOLA has been working to implement policy and secure the investments necessary to create over 30,000 affordable housing opportunities, at an estimated $5.8 billion, needed to end the housing crisis that threatens New Orleans' future. The American Housing and Economic Mobility Act gets us closer to that goal and securing the economic stability New Orleanians deserve. This bill also represents a chance to align our policy priorities with other needs and truly put housing first by incentivizing the implementation of strategies like the Smart Housing Mix. As a country, we can no longer make substantial investments in our cities without ensuring that they are equitable and affordable for all. -Andreanecia M. Morris, Executive Director of HousingNOLA\nOn behalf of the National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC), I commend Congressman Richmond for his leadership in advancing bold and comprehensive solutions to help end housing poverty and homelessness in America once and for all. The American Housing and Economic Mobility Act puts forward an ambitious plan to significantly expand investments in proven solutions, like the national Housing Trust Fund, to help millions of the lowest income families who struggle to pay rent and put food on the table, buy medication, or save for a rainy day. Congress should quickly enact this bill to provide the lowest income seniors, people with disabilities, families with children, and others the breadth of opportunities that come from having a stable, affordable place to call home. -Diane Yentel, President and CEO of NLIHC\nCosponsors of this bill include Representatives Elijah Cummings (D-MD), Barbara Lee (D-CA), and Gwen Moore (D-WI).\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-richmond-statement-passing-inspector-general-access-act", "Rep. Richmond Statement on the Passing of the Inspector General Access Act", "2018-11-29", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC- Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued a statement on House passage of H.R. 3154, a bill he introduced, the Inspector General Access Act of 2017. The Inspector General Access Act will foster greater accountability and transparency within the Department of Justice (DOJ) by granting the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) for the DOJ the authority to investigate alleged misconduct committed by DOJ attorneys when they act in their capacity as lawyers. \n\nThe passage of the Inspector General Access Act is a step forward in true justice and accountability not only within the Department of Justice, but also for the American people, said Rep. Richmond. The DOJ's own Office of Professional Responsibility reported over 650 infractions from 2002 through 2013, including constitutional and civil rights violations, abuse of investigative authority, and federal attorneys intentionally misleading courts. This legislation seeks to prevent these actions from happening again in the future and to lead to a more transparent way forward.\n\nWorking for the Department of Justice is an honor and valuable service. Its lawyers and other employees should be held to a standard of excellence that exemplifies values of fairness, honesty, and efficiency in upholding the federal legal process. The Inspector General Access Act will help ensure that the DOJ meets that standard. I am proud to have introduced this important legislation.\n\nAfter New Orleans police officers killed two innocent civilians and injured four more at the Danziger Bridge in 2005, their convictions were thrown out because of prosecutorial misconduct. The report released by the Department of Justice was heavily redacted and missing crucial facts. In situations like these, only an investigation by OIG can provide the transparency to hold prosecutors to the highest standard and ensure that their mistakes do not deny justice to the families of the victims.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-richmond-statement-army-corps-engineers-2019-work-plan-southeast", "Rep. Richmond Statement on Army Corps of Engineers 2019 Work Plan for the Southeast Louisiana Urban Flood Control Project", "2018-11-21", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, in response to the release of the Army Corps of Engineers Fiscal Year 2019 work plan for civil works appropriations including funding for the Southeast Louisiana Urban Flood Control Project, Algiers Subbasin, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement: \n\nAfter years of fighting for sufficient flood drainage funding for my district, I am pleased with the Army Corps of Engineers' 2019 Fiscal Year work plan that includes nearly $16.3 million for the Southeast Louisiana Urban Flood Control Project (SELA), Rep. Richmond stated. Louisiana remains vulnerable to volatile rain and subsequent flooding, and I have worked tirelessly with my colleagues across the aisle to ensure this funding would be a priority for the Army Corps of Engineers.\n\nInvestment in SELA is pivotal in protecting the people, properties, businesses, and other establishments in Orleans and Jefferson Parishes. I will continue to fiercely advocate on behalf of my constituents in Louisiana's 2nd congressional district for the protection they deserve and will ensure that this protection is sustainable for years to come.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-richmond-statement-death-frank-donze", "Rep. Richmond Statement on the Death of Frank Donze", "2018-11-03", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, in response to the passing of veteran New Orleans political reporter Frank Donze, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement: \n\nThe passing of Frank Donze is a true loss for the New Orleans community, as well as for journalism at large, said Rep. Richmond. Frank was a well respected, long-time political reporter with The Times-Picayune before becoming the Communications Director with the Audubon Institute.\n\nI first met Frank in the beginning of my political career in 1999. Over those near 20 years, Frank has been tough, thorough and thoughtful. I have always appreciated his work ethic and admired his honesty. \n\nIn our current climate of relentless attacks on the media, Frank's legacy is one of integrity and truth. It reaffirms the true greatness of America and her democracy.Frank will be truly missed, and I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and colleagues.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-richmond-response-kroger-grocery-store-and-tree-life-synagogue-mass", "Rep. Richmond Responds to Kroger Grocery Store and Tree of Life Synagogue Mass Shootings", "2018-10-28", "2018", "2018-10", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC- In response to the murders of two African Americans in a Kentucky Kroger grocery store and the 11 Jews slain yesterday at a Pittsburgh, PA synagogue, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement:\nIt brings me great sorrow to wake up yet another day having to address the public and console our loved ones due to acts of grotesque, racially charged hate and pure evil, said Rep. Richmond. Just days ago, a white supremacist set out to murder any and all African Americans he could find. After an unsuccessful attempt at trying to enter a predominately African American Baptist church, Gregory A. Bush made his way to a nearby Kroger in Louisville, Kentucky killing two African Americans in and around the grocery store. This is not the United States of America that we should know, love, or grow accustomed to.\nWhat happened at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania yesterday was beyond horrific. An anti-Semite came into a sacred place of worship and took the lives of 11 innocent worshipers. This is one of the deadliest attacks on the Jewish community in United States history, and thoughts and prayers from lawmakers are not enough to prevent these events from happening again. We cannot sit back and watch as bigots and racists take the lives of innocent Americans, and we must not stay silent while white nationalists continue to feel emboldened and empowered by the tacit approval of our highest form of leadership. At a time like this, it is clear that we must perform an audit of our core values, evaluate what we really stand for, and then take the necessary corrective steps to ending anti-Semitic and other racially charged acts of violence from becoming a common occurrence.\nAfrican Americans know well the deeply rooted pain also experienced by those in the Jewish community on the account of the flagrant racists and bigots that poison our country. Events ranging from the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in Birmingham, Alabama to the Mother Emanuel A.M.E. Church massacre in Charleston, South Carolina, to the Freedom Summer murders in Mississippi, both African Americans and the Jewish community know what it is like to be targeted and routinely persecuted all in the name of fear and hate. We also know well the sacred fellowship shared between our communities. The Jewish community in America has long supported African Americans, most notably with their contributions during the Civil Rights Movement, including funding the NAACP and several historically black colleges and universities.\nIt is inconceivable to think that in only the past few years that we have endured and witnessed an unprecedented spike in hate crimes. The Anti-Defamation League has reported a 57% increase in anti-Semitic incidents in 2017, as well a sharp increase in anti-Semitic online harassment. Everyone deserves to feel peaceful and safe in their respective places of worship. One of our Founding Fathers, President George Washington said it best, May the children of the stock of Abraham who dwell in this land continue to merit and enjoy the good will of the other inhabitants  while every one shall sit in safety under his own vine and fig tree and there shall be none to make him afraid.'\nIn the wake of our current age of hate, vitriol, and racially motivated violence, I am reminded of the enlightening words by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that'. Through light, love, and the spirit of perseverance, not only will we conquer and overcome the hate that plagues our nation, we will not falter nor become divided. United we shall continue to stand.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-richmond-statement-house-passage-protecting-critical-infrastructure", "Rep. Richmond Statement on House Passage of Protecting Critical Infrastructure Against Drones and Emerging Threats Act", "2018-09-26", "2018", "2018-09", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC- In response to the overwhelming passage of H.R. 6620, also known as the Protecting Critical Infrastructure Against Drones and Emerging Threats Act, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement: \n\nThe passage of H.R. 6620 brings us steps closer to making our country and communities more safe by requiring the Department of Homeland Security to take more proactive measures to better understand and protect our nation's infrastructure against drones, said Rep. Richmond. While the use and development of drones are not new in today's emerging digital and cyber landscape, it is imperative that we understand vulnerable areas in my district and around the country that may be at risk of a terrorist attack through drones, including our ports, refineries, airports, pipelines, and even stadiums.\n\nMoreover, reporting suspicious drone activity to the Department of Homeland Security should be a streamlined and easy process. I have learned firsthand about the adverse effects of drone enabled attacks in airspace and am committed to keeping our nation's infrastructure safe and secure. \n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-richmond-responds-kenner-mayor-s-nike-memorandum", "Rep. Richmond Responds to Kenner Mayors Nike Memorandum", "2018-09-11", "2018", "2018-09", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC- In response to Kenner Mayor Ben Zahn's memo banning Nike purchases and deliveries, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement:\n\nAfter reading Kenner Mayor Ben Zahn's memorandum demanding the immediate ban of Nike products for Kenner's recreational facilities, I knew I had to publicly address yet another politician for senselessly attempting to further divide our community, said Rep. Richmond. We should take a moment to question why Nike is the top priority for a local politician when his residents face a variety of social and economic challenges. Mayor Zahn is imposing his personal beliefs onto Little League players, and I strongly oppose his stance.\n\nMy beloved home state, to which I have had the privilege of serving for nearly 20 years, like many others in our nation, has its fair share of problems. Louisiana's educational system ranks 49th in the nation, our healthcare system ranks 47th in the nation, and Louisiana has one of the highest infant mortality rates at around 8%. I could go on with an additional list of challenges that all our communities and politicians face that we should collectively work together to solve, and that's why Mayor Zahn has no business imposing this policy onto innocent children.\n\nNike is a multi-billion dollar global enterprise that has never contributed to the social and economic challenges in Louisiana. In fact, Nike donated more than 10 million dollars after Hurricane Katrina to build a stadium and track in Joe Brown Park for metro area children. Contrary to Mayor Zahn's belief, Nike is not running a political campaign. Using the current controversy surrounding Nike's support of Colin Kaepernick as an excuse to rob resources from those who need it most in Kenner is a clear sign of Mayor Zahn's pandering at the expense of the very children he is entrusted with guiding. It is shameful to divide such a close-knit community just for national political attention.\"\n\nInstead of playing petty politics to score cheap points to the detriment of Little League players, Mayor Zahn should be working on behalf of his entire community. I have long put people over politics and have a consistent track record of bipartisanship to bring people together. Kenner residents deserve better, and I support their use of all Nike products.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-richmond-responds-president-s-decision-rescind-federal-employee", "Rep. Richmond Responds To The Presidents Decision To Rescind Federal Employee Raises", "2018-08-31", "2018", "2018-08", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC- Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement in response to President Trump's decision to cancel pay raises for federal employees:\nPresident Trump's recent decision to freeze pay raises for hardworking federal employees is an affront to our workforce and a danger for our economy. This is a clear attack on millions of patriotic civil servants throughout the country. Federal employees make up the bedrock of the American economy, and in my district serve our veterans, protect us in the wake of natural disasters, deliver our mail, process federal payroll, and preserve our environment. This administration's latest attempt to sabotage our community is yet another unfortunate blow to middle income Americans. I will work diligently with my colleagues to ensure federal employee wages are protected. \n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-richmond-statement-death-felicia-kahn", "Rep. Richmond Statement on the Death of Felicia Kahn", "2018-06-21", "2018", "2018-06", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON DC- Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement after the passing of community and civic activist Felicia Kahn:\nFelicia Kahn was a giant in the city of New Orleans and her work and passion gained her admiration throughout the country, said Rep. Richmond. One was never confused about her values or priorities, she was always in pursuit of the upward mobility and wellness of everyone. With her death we lost a champion for the advancement of women, and our commitment should be to carry on that work with the same determination and vigor.\nWe will miss Felicia's passion and vitality. Our city and the nation is better off because of the work she carried out each day.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-statement-death-felicia-kahn", "Rep. Richmond Statement on the Death of Felicia Kahn", "2018-06-21", "2018", "2018-06", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON DC- Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement after the passing of community and civic activist Felicia Kahn:\nFelicia Kahn was a giant in the city of New Orleans and her work and passion gained her admiration throughout the country, said Rep. Richmond. One was never confused about her values or priorities, she was always in pursuit of the upward mobility and wellness of everyone. With her death we lost a champion for the advancement of women, and our commitment should be to carry on that work with the same determination and vigor.\nWe will miss Felicia's passion and vitality. Our city and the nation is better off because of the work she carried out each day.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-richmond-joins-colleagues-introducing-house-companion-keep-families", "Rep. Richmond Joins Colleagues in Introducing House Companion to the Keep Families Together Act", "2018-06-19", "2018", "2018-06", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON DC- Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement after introducing the Keep Families Together Act in the House of Representatives:\n\t\t\t\t\tFamily separation at our borders is cruel and violates our values as a country, said Rep. Richmond. The reality is the unnecessary suffering experienced by these families was caused by the President with the stroke of a pen and can just as easily be reversed. Reasonable citizens can disagree on the nuances of immigration policy, but we should all be able to agree that no person should be subjected to this horrendous treatment. If the President is not compassionate enough to reverse his policy, Congress must act.\n\t\t\t\t\tThe Keep Families Together Act is currently supported by 49 Members of the United States Senate and more than 190 Members of the United States House of Representatives. The Keep Families Together Act would:\n\t\t\t\t\t \nProhibit Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials from separating children from their parents, except in extraordinary circumstances. In these limited circumstances, separation could not occur unless parental rights have been terminated, a child welfare agency has issued a best interest determination, or the Port Director or the Chief Border Patrol agent of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have approved separation due to trafficking indicators or other concerns of risk to the child;\n\t\t\t\t\t\tRestricts the prosecution of parents who are asylum seekers by adopting the recommendation of the DHS Office of Inspector General. The bill delays prosecutions for asylum seekers and creates an affirmative defense for asylum seekers;\n\t\t\t\t\t\tRequire all CBP officers and agents to complete child welfare training on an annual basis;\n\t\t\t\t\t\tEstablish a preference for family unity, discourage the separation of siblings, and create a presumption that detention is not in the best interests of families and children;\n\t\t\t\t\t\tRequire DHS to develop policies and procedures allowing parents and children to locate each other and reunite if they have been separated. Such procedures must be public and made available in a language that parents can understand. In cases of separation, it requires DHS to provide parents with a weekly report containing information about a child, and weekly phone communication; and\n\t\t\t\t\t\tRequire a report on the separation of families every six months.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-joins-colleagues-introducing-house-companion-keep-families-together-act", "Rep. Richmond Joins Colleagues in Introducing House Companion to the Keep Families Together Act", "2018-06-19", "2018", "2018-06", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON DC- Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement after introducing the Keep Families Together Act in the House of Representatives:\nFamily separation at our borders is cruel and violates our values as a country, said Rep. Richmond. The reality is the unnecessary suffering experienced by these families was caused by the President with the stroke of a pen and can just as easily be reversed. Reasonable citizens can disagree on the nuances of immigration policy, but we should all be able to agree that no person should be subjected to this horrendous treatment. If the President is not compassionate enough to reverse his policy, Congress must act.\nThe Keep Families Together Act is currently supported by 49 Members of the United States Senate and more than 190 Members of the United States House of Representatives. The Keep Families Together Act would:\n \nProhibit Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials from separating children from their parents, except in extraordinary circumstances. In these limited circumstances, separation could not occur unless parental rights have been terminated, a child welfare agency has issued a best interest determination, or the Port Director or the Chief Border Patrol agent of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have approved separation due to trafficking indicators or other concerns of risk to the child;\n \n \nRestricts the prosecution of parents who are asylum seekers by adopting the recommendation of the DHS Office of Inspector General. The bill delays prosecutions for asylum seekers and creates an affirmative defense for asylum seekers;\n \n \nRequire all CBP officers and agents to complete child welfare training on an annual basis;\n \n \nEstablish a preference for family unity, discourage the separation of siblings, and create a presumption that detention is not in the best interests of families and children;\n \n \nRequire DHS to develop policies and procedures allowing parents and children to locate each other and reunite if they have been separated. Such procedures must be public and made available in a language that parents can understand. In cases of separation, it requires DHS to provide parents with a weekly report containing information about a child, and weekly phone communication; and\n \n \nRequire a report on the separation of families every six months.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-richmond-responds-president-s-announcement-withdraw-iran-nuclear-deal", "Rep. Richmond Responds to the Presidents Announcement to Withdraw from the Iran Nuclear Deal", "2018-05-08", "2018", "2018-05", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON DC- Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement after President Trump announced the withdrawal of the United States from the Iran nuclear deal:\nI have consistently said that this deal is not perfect, but since 2015, the evidence clearly shows that it has achieved its goal of preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon.Unfortunately, the Trump Administration has abandoned a plan that is working, and has failed to replace it with any clear strategy. This shortsighted decision will embolden hardliners in Iran to double down on their nuclear ambitions, alienate our European and international allies who worked with us on this deal, and make both the United States and Israel less safe. Moving forward, I urge the President to develop a new strategy to prevent Iran from acquiring weapons of mass destruction. \n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-responds-president-s-announcement-withdraw-iran-nuclear-deal", "Rep. Richmond Responds to the Presidents Announcement to Withdraw from the Iran Nuclear Deal", "2018-05-08", "2018", "2018-05", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON DC- Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement after President Trump announced the withdrawal of the United States from the Iran nuclear deal:\nI have consistently said that this deal is not perfect, but since 2015, the evidence clearly shows that it has achieved its goal of preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon.Unfortunately, the Trump Administration has abandoned a plan that is working, and has failed to replace it with any clear strategy. This shortsighted decision will embolden hardliners in Iran to double down on their nuclear ambitions, alienate our European and international allies who worked with us on this deal, and make both the United States and Israel less safe. Moving forward, I urge the President to develop a new strategy to prevent Iran from acquiring weapons of mass destruction. \n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-responds-louisiana-attorney-general-decision-alton-sterling-shooting", "Rep. Richmond Responds to Louisiana Attorney General Decision in Alton Sterling Shooting", "2018-03-27", "2018", "2018-03", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON- Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement after Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry announced no charges would be filed in the fatal officer-involved shooting of Alton Sterling:\nAs we try to make sense of the death of Stephon Clark in Sacramento, we are forced to confront the disappointment in todays announcement, said Congressman Richmond. Todays announcement is the latest sign that we have a lot of work to do in regard to criminal justice and policing reform. As with many cases before Alton, the system has prioritized absolving the perpetrators instead of vigorously seeking fairness for the deceased, their family, and the larger communities in which they live. One thing we know for certain is that Alton Sterlings life was taken too soon. Altons name will be added to a growing list of young black men and women killed at the hands of law enforcement who were never charged and never had to face a jury of their peers. Every life is precious, regardless of race, status, gender, or zip code. Until our justice system fully recognizes this, the legitimate fears of our young people will continue to stymie true safety and harmony in our communities.\nI renew my call to release all video and audio evidence reviewed in this investigation. Trust between the Baton Rouge community and law enforcement has deeply eroded. We must all continue to work to bridge the divide between law enforcement and community. Until this is done, many young black men and women will be forced to fear any non-threatening action they take could be met with certain death. That is no way to live life. Additionally, I call on Chairman Bob Goodlatte to bring the work of the bipartisan Working Group of Policing Strategies, of which I am a member, to a close. Our work is critical to addressing this national crisis.\nAs we wrestle with the frustration and anger brought by todays announcement, let us remember the continued grief and disappointment felt by the Sterling family. Let us continue to lift them up with love and support. Let us continue our fight for justice with the same grace and focus they have displayed. Let that be our lasting tribute to Alton and our commitment to his family.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-mourns-passing-tom-benson", "Rep. Richmond Mourns the Passing of Tom Benson", "2018-03-19", "2018", "2018-03", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington DC  Today, Rep. Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement after New Orleans Saints and Pelicans owner Tom Benson passed away:\nI am saddened to hear of the passing of Tom Benson. Mr. Benson was an integral part of the New Orleans community and will be missed in ways far beyond the city's playing fields, said Rep. Richmond. Mr. Bensons decisions to purchase the Saints and the Pelicans ensured that the teams New Orleans loved would remain where they belonged. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, those actions took on even more meaning and ultimately gave the people of New Orleans hope that will last a lifetime.\nRep. Richmond continued, my thoughts and prayers are with his family and all the members of the community who felt a special connection with him. His legacy will live on through the many people and organizations he supported in our great city.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-homeland-security-chairman-hold-hearing-mass-shootings", "Rep. Richmond To Homeland Security Chairman: Hold Hearing on Mass Shootings", "2018-02-16", "2018", "2018-02", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  In a letter to House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Michael McCaul (R-TX-10), Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-LA-02) demanded that the Committee, of which hes a member, live up to its name and mission and hold a hearing that explores mass shootings as the domestic terrorism they are, as well as solutions that would help stop them. The letter was sent in the wake of the school shooting at Stoneman Douglas High Schoolin Parkland, Fla., which left 17 people dead. Its one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history.\nRep. Richmond wrote, As Members of Congress, there is no greater responsibility we have than trying to protect our nation. As we saw this week with the attack at Stoneman Douglas High School, we have failed. Once again, one person with a gun has shocked the nation and shattered a community. It is time that the Committee on Homeland Security lived up to its name and mission. As a Member of the Homeland Security Committee, which you chair, I call on you to hold a hearing to explore these mass shootings as the domestic terrorism they are and figure out what we can do to stop them.\nSee full letter here\n\n####", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-statement-house-passage-budget-agreement", "Rep. Richmond Statement on House Passage of Budget Agreement", "2018-02-09", "2018", "2018-02", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Rep. Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement after voting against the budget caps bill:\nWe have been told by our military leaders and those who run critical domestic programs that stopgap, short-term continuing resolutions are harmful. This funding bill puts us on solid footing and makes good investments in health programs, families, communities, and national security, said Rep. Richmond. Additionally, the bill includes provisions that will avoid multi-year delays to important coastal restoration projects in Louisiana and provide forgiveness for loans taken out by Xavier, Dillard, and SUNO after Hurricane Katrina, which I have been fighting to solve for years.\nUnfortunately, an important group was left out of this dealthousands in Louisiana who are still trying to piece their lives together after historic flooding. In the end, I could not in good conscience turn my back on them. A number of important, bipartisan FEMA reforms that had already passed the House were left out, including important improvements to the arbitration process, and increased mitigation and resiliency efforts. Most importantly, this bill disregarded a bill addressing the duplication of benefits issue that is crippling recovery for so many in Louisiana. Instead of the real solution that Representative Graves and I had worked out which passed the House with bipartisan support, this bill had a hollow shell that leaves the issue unresolved and fails all those who are being unfairly kept from getting the disaster assistance they deserve.\nFinally, this bill fails to resolve a problem that was created by President Trump and threatens the livelihood of hundreds of thousands of young people who were brought to this country through no fault of their own.DREAMers deserve a legislative solution that gives them security and clarity. We owe it to them and the communities across Louisiana to which they contribute.\n\n####", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-announces-more-69-million-additional-fema-grants-east-baton-rouge-school", "Rep. Richmond Announces More Than $6.9 Million in Additional FEMA Grants for the East Baton Rouge School Board", "2018-01-18", "2018", "2018-01", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "EAST BATON ROUGE SCHOOL BOARD\n\t\t\t\t\tDeclaration Date: 8/14/2016The award provides $4,350,397.50 in federal funding to the East Baton Rouge School Board to repair damaged buildings B, C, D, E, F, G, I, R, T, and U at Glen Oaks High School, as well as Direct Administrative Costs. The campus structures were flooded and damaged as a result of FEMA-DR-4277-LA (Severe Storms and Flooding) and is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\tEAST BATON ROUGE SCHOOL BOARD\n\t\t\t\t\tDeclaration Date: 8/14/2016The award provides $1,914,488.71 in federal funding to the East Baton Rouge School Board to replace damaged Information Technology (IT) equipment at twelve (12) flood damaged facilities, as well as Direct Administrative Costs. The facilities were flooded and damaged as a result of FEMA-DR-4277-LA (Severe Storms and Flooding) and is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 20, "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 \"party\" = :p0 and \"state\" = :p1 and \"year\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "Democrat", "p1": "LA", "p2": "2018"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=LA&year=2018", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 20, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=LA&year=2018", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=LA&year=2018", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 20, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=LA&year=2018&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=LA&year=2018", "results": [{"value": "LA", "label": "LA", "count": 20, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&year=2018", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=LA&year=2018", "results": [{"value": "2018", "label": "2018", "count": 20, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=LA", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": null, "next_url": null, "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 144.24359006807208, "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"}