{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"VI\" and year = 2024 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4566", "PLASKETT STATEMENT ON PASSING OF FORMER PRESIDENT JIMMY CARTER", "2024-12-30", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nDecember 30th, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT STATEMENT ON PASSING OF FORMER PRESIDENT JIMMY CARTER\n\nSt. Croix, USVI \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement on the passing of the longest-lived U.S. President, James Carter.\n\n\u201cOur country mourns the passing of our former President Jimmy Carter who embodied the mantra of \u201cservice above self.\u201d He served the American people not just while he was in public office but distinguished himself as a former US president whose work to bring peace and better our nation and the world extended far beyond his elected position. He was a man of strong convictions and a demonstrative commitment to living out his faith through honest hard work. He leaves a legacy of tremendous advocacy for civil rights and peace. His stance on American leadership in the protection of human rights worldwide helped to disrupt the power of communist regimes during his presidency, and eventually led to the human rights initiatives of the 1980s and 1990s. The people of the Virgin Islands remember fondly his visits to our islands, and his love and respect for the people and culture of our territory.\n\n\u201cWe have lost another member of a man from \u201cthe Greatest Generation\u201d\u2014selfless, patriotic, hardworking, and an example of American can-doism. President Carter\u2019s life inspired many and I know his example will live on for many generations. I offer my deepest condolences to his family, friends and all those who loved him.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4567", "RANKING MEMBER PLASKETT REFLECTS ON DEMOCRATS\u2019 IMPACT ON SELECT COMMITTEE ON WEAPONIZATION OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT", "2024-12-30", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nDecember 30, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nPress Release\n\nRANKING MEMBER PLASKETT REFLECTS ON DEMOCRATS\u2019 IMPACT ON SELECT COMMITTEE ON WEAPONIZATION OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Ranking Member Plaskett released the following statement on the Select Subcommittee on Weaponization of the Federal Government:\n\n\u201cAs we end the 118th Congress and look toward the next, I am thankful that I was entrusted with the opportunity to serve our country and protect the integrity and soundness of our democracy as the Ranking Member of the Select Subcommittee on Weaponization of the Federal Government during this session. The Republican's attempt to derail the federal government\u2019s obligation to investigate and conduct due process on actions, organizations and individuals that threaten our republic and create an anti-democratic environment was met with strong resistance by myself and my Democratic colleagues on the subcommittee. We used the hearings to push our message of the dangers of Project 2025, along with Trump\u2019s plans to weaponize the federal government. We brought witnesses that were not beholden to the narrative laid out by the Republicans and we were able to drive home the critical need to fight against the threat of fascism and authoritarianism in our country. Because our Republican colleagues on the Committee lost the ability to follow the rules, it was our strategy to use that leverage to counter in very different ways than would normally be done in committees.\n\n\u201cI and my fellow Democratic colleagues\u2014known as the Truth Squad\u2014lifted up a standard of truth and resistance to the dangerous, divisive, and poisonous rhetoric espoused by our Republican counterparts on the committee. We held the line strategically and prevented much of the dangerous work Republicans on the committee intended to accomplish because of the foresight displayed by Leader Jeffries in putting this stellar group of Democratic Members together.\n\n\u201cAs we prepare to enter the 119th session of Congress, I remain committed to doing the difficult, but necessary work of the American people. I am grateful for the ex-officio support and guidance of Representative Jerry Nadler (NY-12) who has steered the ship so well on the Judiciary Committee. I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to Leader Hakeem Jeffries for his continued confidence in me.\n\n\u201cI believe our work on the Select Committee is a great example for my Democrat colleagues in the 119th Congress. The Weaponization Committee was formed and heralded with much fanfare by the Republicans at the beginning of the 118th. It is the incredible team put together by Hakeem Jeffries, our work as a cohesive group, and the confidence my colleagues placed in me to create a very unconventional strategy to counteract Chair Jordan\u2019s narrative that made the committee a \u2018nothing burger\u201d for the GOP.\n\n\u201cIt was an honor.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4563", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES HOUSE PASSAGE OF CARIBBEAN BORDER COUNTERNARCOTICS STRATEGY ACT", "2024-12-06", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nDecember 6, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nPRESS STATEMENT\n\nPLASKETT ANNOUNCES HOUSE PASSAGE OF CARIBBEAN BORDER COUNTERNARCOTICS STRATEGY ACT\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement:\n\n\u201cI am pleased to share that this week H.R. 920, the Caribbean Border Counternarcotics Strategy Act, which I co-sponsored with my Republican colleague and fellow Caribbean sister, Congresswoman Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon has passed the House of Representatives as part of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) Reauthorization Act of 2024 (H.R. 9598) by a vote of 399 to 1. This bipartisan legislation reauthorizes the ONDCP and related programs, ensuring federal agencies are properly equipped to hold drug traffickers accountable. I am proud to be one of six original co-sponsors of this critically important package.\n\n\u201cMy bill, the Caribbean Border Counternarcotics Strategy Act, provides statutory authority to require the ONDCP to include a Caribbean Border Counternarcotics Strategy in its National Drug Control Strategy. This strategy must include measures for preventing the illegal trafficking of drugs through the Caribbean region into the United States, including measures to combat drug trafficking and drug-related violent crime in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.\u201d\n\nOther Key Provisions of H.R. 9598:\n\nReauthorizes the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program and the Drug-Free Communities (DFC) program at FY 2024 enacted funding levels through FY 2031.\n\nSimilarly reauthorizes related ONDCP programs including the Drug Court Training and Technical Assistance program, the Model Acts Program, the Community-Based Coalition Enhancement Grants program, and the National Community Anti-Drug Coalition Institute.\n\nIncorporates key aspects of the HIDTA Reauthorization Act (H.R. 7185), led by Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) and Rep. John Duarte (R-Calif.), to bolster local law enforcement resources and temporarily reassign prosecutorial resources to combat fentanyl.\n\nRequires the ONDCP Director to conduct a study on life saving opioid overdose reversal agents.\n\nDirects the ONDCP Director to coordinate with the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, and State to ensure appropriate agencies are properly resourced to ensure that traffickers of illicit drugs are held accountable under Title 8 immigration authorities.\n\n\u201cWe are well aware of the violence and destruction drug trafficking has exacted in our region. The loss of lives, opportunities and the social structure to these issues must be combatted with multiple tools. This legislation is an important one. This past weekend in discussions with Prime Ministers in the Caribbean region that problem was echoed. I would like to thank Congresswoman Gonzalez-Colon, Chairman James Comer, Ranking Member Jamie Raskin and their teams for their willingness to work across the aisle to advance this legislation for the Virgin Islands and the Caribbean region.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis legislation must still be passed by the Senate before it can go to the President\u2019s desk for signature into law, I am hopeful that this critical legislation will continue to move with haste.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4562", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES EXTENSION OF CANEEL BAY REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS", "2024-12-04", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nDecember 4, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nPRESS STATEMENT\n\nPLASKETT ANNOUNCES EXTENSION OF CANEEL BAY REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement:\n\n\u201cI am pleased to announce that the National Park Service (NPS) has extended the Request for Qualifications to Operate and Redevelop Overnight Accommodations at Caneel Bay (RFQ), which was released on October 22, 2024, and previously scheduled to close on December 27, 2024. The RFQ was extended by 60-days, until February 28, 2025.\n\n\u201cMy office advocated for an increased time for the RFQ as there was a clear need for additional time to engage potentially interested parties given the number of federal and local holidays during the fall-winter season and limited public advertising. The Caneel Bay property impacts the entire Virgin Islands \u2013 and plays a vital role in our ability to compete in the tourism space with our Caribbean neighbors. The potential offers received through the RFQ should reflect the interests and the needs of the people of the Virgin Islands and given the magnitude of a potential resort in the area, as such, Caneel should have the adequate time and resources necessary for multitude of voices. We have also requested that additional timely public engagement take place concerning all actions of the National Parks for the entire Virgin Islands.\n\n\u201cI am hopeful the Caneel Bay redevelopment can accommodate a world-class resort that satisfies the needs of the local workforce, economy and is mindful of the historic and cultural uniqueness of our home. Again, I have urged, and will continue to urge, the NPS to use a transparent, open process that comprehensively considers Virgin Islanders\u2019 voices.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4558", "PLASKETT EXPRESSES GRATITUDE TO VIRGIN ISLANDERS FOR SIXTH TERM WIN AS DELEGATE TO CONGRESS", "2024-11-05", "2024", "2024-11", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nNovember 5, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT EXPRESSES GRATITUDE TO VIRGIN ISLANDERS FOR SIXTH TERM WIN AS DELEGATE TO CONGRESS\n\nSt. Croix, USVI \u2013 On Tuesday, November 5, 2024, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett secured an overwhelming victory over two opponents in her district and will now serve her 6th term as the Virgin Islands\u2019 Delegate to Congress.\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett shared, \u201c I first want to say thank you to the people of the Virgin Islands for re-electing me as your Delegate to Congress. I am deeply grateful and humbled to have earned your trust once again as your representative. Your vote has shown me that through the noise you looked at action, not words and have found the work and resources that my office has brought home as worthy of two more years.\n\n\u201cFrom the beginning, I promised to work tirelessly for each and every one of you and for our home. I am proud of what we have achieved together; funding for the rebuild of our islands, resources for farmers and business owners; and real movement toward greater equitable treatment of the Virgin Islands.\n\n\u201cTen years ago, we started on this path with a purpose and have accomplished so much already, but we have just gotten started. I have shown that I can get the job done and I am dedicated to working for what each of us as Virgin Islanders are supposed to have. There is still so much more to do, and I promise to fight hard for the resources, opportunities and the respect that the Virgin Islands deserve. Thank you for believing in me. Together, we will continue making our Virgin Islands stronger and more resilient than ever.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:07:06Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4557", "PLASKETT PROVIDES CRITICAL UPDATE ON USPS ISSUE OF UNTIMELY PACKAGE DELIVERY", "2024-10-30", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nOctober 30, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT PROVIDES CRITICAL UPDATE ON USPS ISSUE OF UNTIMELY PACKAGE DELIVERY\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 The office of Congresswoman Plaskett has held numerous meetings with United States Postal Service (USPS) regional leadership related to the exorbitant package delivery delays that continue to affect Virgin Islanders.\n\nAfter a number of meetings with the leadership of USPS regarding the delays, we would like to share the following information which outlines the USPS process and proposed changes to rectify the issues we are facing:\n\nBackground:\n\n- The estimated delivery service for Ground Advantage Service, Parcel Select, and Priority Mail that contains hazardous materials or non-standard dimensions to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands is 14 \u2013 21 days. USPS indicated this timeframe is not guaranteed based on several factors, including origin and destination zip codes, package volume, and weather. Amazon recently changed their shipping from Ground Advantage to Parcel Select. Prior to this change, Amazon planes would fly into San Juan and the packages would be distributed and delivered from San Juan via air. Due to the Parcel Select change, once the St. Thomas/St. John and St. Croix packages were scanned and banded, FAA regulations prohibit the packages from being sent by air, as this designation requires transport via surface mail. Consequently, several packages were in the process of being re-routed back to Jacksonville since there has not been mail barge service between Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.\n\nIntervention:\n\n- As a direct result of Congresswoman Plaskett\u2019s intervention and persistence, USPS has agreed to not send the packages back to Jacksonville to go through the process again but to retain the parcel select packages from Amazon and other packages that could not be shipped by plane, and those packages are NOW being held in a holding facility in Puerto Rico. Effective Saturday, November 2nd, 2024, the packages will be barged from Puerto Rico to the Virgin Islands. The barge will leave Puerto Rico early in the morning on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024. Packages will be off loaded in St. Thomas first and then the barge will continue over to St. Croix. The barge will travel with packages to the Virgin Islands every Saturday.\n\n- Regular Priority mail and Ground Advantage packages that are not mislabeled due to the robotic labeling issue will continue to be flown or barged from Jacksonville to St. Thomas and St. Croix without delays.\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett shared, \u201cMy team and I realize that this USPS issue impacts a myriad of people in our community\u2014businessowners awaiting their products, individuals who need prescriptions, and so many others. I would like to thank the USPS employees for their tireless work to ensure that we are able to get our mail despite the various delays with the system, and I would also like to thank all the individuals that called in and/or sent in their USPS complaints. My team and I will continue to advocate on behalf of our territory to ensure that this issue and others like it with USPS are resolved as quickly as possible.\u201d\n\nTo report a USPS complaint for our office\u2019s records, please contact our offices at 340-778-5900 or 340-774-4408.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4556", "PLASKETT REFLECTS ON SIGNIFICANCE OF VP HARRIS'S ELLIPSE SPEECH", "2024-10-28", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nOctober 28, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT REFLECTS ON SIGNIFICANCE OF VP HARRIS'S ELLIPSE SPEECH\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement:\n\n\u201cTomorrow, I have the privilege of joining Vice President Harris and the Harris-Walz team for VP Harris\u2019s speech at the Ellipse in Washington, DC. The last time a government official gave a speech at this location was former President Trump\u2019s address at a rally on January 6, 2021, just moments before what we now know as the January 6th Insurrection.\n\n\u201cI felt it incredibly important to join VP Harris for this event, especially as I was the impeachment manager who was responsible for the fact analysis of what happened leading up to the attempted overthrow, along with the planning and execution of the attempted insurrection during former President Trump\u2019s second impeachment.\n\n\u201cIt is my hope that our country will remain true to its origin and reject the dangerous, autocratic, and sometimes threatening behaviors we have seen displayed by some in this same hallowed place. I look forward to the love, joy, hope and commitment to hard work that I know VP Harris will share during her address.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4555", "PLASKETT ADDRESSES RECENT ISSUE REGARDING DELAY IN USPS PACKAGE DELIVERY", "2024-10-25", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nOctober 25, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nUPDATED PRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT ADDRESSES RECENT ISSUE REGARDING DELAY IN USPS PACKAGE DELIVERY\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 The office of Congresswoman Plaskett recently received information and complaints from numerous Virgin Islands residents regarding delays in packages mailed through the United States Postal Service (USPS). Plaskett\u2019s office has learned that the delays are a result of mislabeling of addresses in Jacksonville causing packages which should be routed to the Virgin Islands mistakenly sent from the Jacksonville processing center to Puerto Rico for processing.\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett shared, \u201cMy office is aware of a postal issue related to packages presently affecting the USPS customers in the Virgin Islands. After a conversation with USPS management, we have learned that there is a robotic issue with labeling at the Jacksonville Processing and Distribution Center which causes packages to be shipped to incorrect zip codes outside of the Virgin Islands.\n\n\u201cWe have elevated these issues with USPS regional and headquarters leadership, as delays in receiving mail and packages cannot continue and viable options must be provided to rectify the matter. My office has suggested alternative routing between Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands until the mislabeling at the Jacksonville Center is rectified. I am putting as much pressure as possible and will work with USPS officials until this issue with our mail service is resolved as quickly as possible.\n\n\u201cI want to thank the individuals who called and emailed our office to share these delays with us. Sharing tracking information with my office supports our ability to make stronger arguments.\u201d\n\nTo report a USPS complaint for our office\u2019s records, please contact our offices at 340-778-5900 or 340-774-4408.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4554", "PLASKETT MOURNS PASSING OF HOUSE COLLEAGUE CONGRESSMAN RICK NOLAN", "2024-10-21", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nOctober 21, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT MOURNS PASSING OF HOUSE COLLEAGUE CONGRESSMAN RICK NOLAN\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett joins her colleagues in mourning of the passing of Congressman Rick Nolan.\n\n\u201cCongressman Nolan had a long, distinguished career in public service, first as a staffer for former U.S. Vice President Walter Mondale and ultimately went on to serve six terms in Congress. His dedication to advocacy for American families, particularly those from his home state of Minnesota was unquestionable.\n\n\u201cRepresentative Nolan will be dearly missed by House Democrats, myself and my staff. I offer my deepest condolences to his family, staff, and loved ones during this difficult time.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4540", "PLASKETT SHARES HIGHLIGHTS ON HER ROLE AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON HOUSE INTELLIGENCE COMMITTEE", "2024-10-01", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nOctober 1, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT SHARES HIGHLIGHTS ON HER ROLE AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON HOUSE INTELLIGENCE COMMITTEE\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett, who currently serves as a Member on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence released the following statement on her role and accomplishments within the committee during the 118th Congress:\n\n\u201cI am proud to be the first delegate from a U.S. territory ever to serve on HPSCI, since its establishment over 45 years ago. I am also proud to be the top Democrat on HPCI\u2019s National Intelligence Enterprise Subcommittee, which oversees the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), FBI, and the intelligence offices within the Drug Enforcement Administration and the departments of State, Treasury, Energy, and Homeland Security.\n\n\u201cServing on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI) is an honor and a weighty responsibility. The job of our committee is to conduct oversight of the U.S. intelligence community, which consists of 18 federal agencies\u2014including the Central Intelligence Agency, the National Security Agency, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the American people, we push the intelligence community to be both effective and ethical. We strive to ensure that the intelligence community is collecting and analyzing intelligence that helps the President and Congress make smart national security decisions that keep our country safe and free, support our allies, and defend against our adversaries. We also seek to ensure that the intelligence community is conducting itself in a manner that comports with our Constitution, our laws, and our values.\u201d\n\nHPSCI is unique for a few reasons:\n\nFirst, HPSCI is a \u201cselect\u201d committee, meaning that members of the committee are personally selected by the Speaker (Mike Johnson) and House Minority Leader (Hakeem Jeffries) because of the consequential and sensitive nature of our work.\n\nSecond, by necessity, much of the committee\u2019s work is classified and must be conducted in secrecy. At the same time, we do write unclassified legislation and sometimes hold unclassified hearings that the public can watch.\n\nThird, committee members are encouraged and expected to travel overseas to meet with U.S. officials in the field and with foreign leaders, so we can learn firsthand about the challenges and opportunities that exist. I have made it a point to visit U.S. missions globally, especially in Africa. The travel is grueling, but it provides unique insights about U.S. policy priorities abroad.\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett also shared:\n\n\u201cIn my nearly two years on the committee, I have placed special emphasis on a few key areas that I believe are of interest and concern to many of my constituents.\n\nFirst, I want the men and women who work in the intelligence community to be highly qualified and to reflect the remarkable diversity of our country.\n\nTo that end, I wrote a provision\u2014which I expect to become law this year\u2014that will require intelligence community leaders to develop a strategy to increase the recruitment of qualified individuals residing in the USVI and the other four United States territories. Young Virgin Islanders have so much to contribute to our nation\u2019s security, and the intelligence community needs to do more targeted outreach to our community and to draw upon the deep reservoir of talent that resides here.\n\nIn addition, I championed legislative language requiring the FBI to examine why the empirical data indicates that Special Agents from Black and other minority communities have a higher rate of attrition than their counterparts. Armed with this information, the FBI will be well-positioned to take steps to rectify this problem\u2014and I will make sure they do so.\n\nSecond, I am very focused on national security and public safety threats emanating from the Caribbean region, whether that\u2019s illegal drug and gun trafficking, the crisis in Haiti, or the often malign role played by Russia and China in our neighborhood.\n\nSpecifically, I have strongly pushed the intelligence community to do more to support U.S. and international efforts to bring security and stability to the Haitian people, who deserve to live lives of dignity.\n\nI have also passed legislation requiring the intelligence community to enhance the level of support it is providing to broader U.S. government efforts to detect and interdict illicit firearms trafficking in the Caribbean region, which has led to unacceptable levels of homicides and other violent crimes.\n\nMoreover, working with my colleague Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger from Virginia, I required the intelligence community to report to Congress on efforts by China and Russia to increase their influence with countries in the Caribbean region in ways that undermine U.S. interests. That way, we can push back in a strong and smart way where it is appropriate.\n\nThird, I have taken great interest\u2014and worked hard to develop expertise\u2014in the serious security situation on the continent of Africa, especially West Africa.\n\nThrough my multiple oversight visits to West Africa, I have met with U.S. officials and local stakeholders alike to advocate for the United States to craft and carry out a comprehensive national security strategy toward Africa that is rooted in mutual respect and partnership to advance shared priorities.\n\nCountries in this region, and on the continent more generally, face complex threats from terrorism and from the malign influence of Russia and China, which jeopardize stability and increase the prospect for further democratic backsliding.\n\n\"Finally, I have used my position on HPSCI to stay as informed as possible about the evolving security and humanitarian picture in Israel and Gaza. With the benefit of this information, I have been well-positioned to support diplomatic efforts by the Biden-Harris administration to free the hostages, bring the current violence to an end, surge humanitarian assistance to Gaza and rebuild its infrastructure. I have seen my role to not only question negotiators on both sides of the conflict (including the United States, Israel, Qatar and Egypt) but I have voiced my belief that support must have hard requirements with negative ramifications toward the Netanyahu administration based upon his policies, actions and their impact on Israel and the Palestinian people (not just in Gaza but also in the West Bank) and have pressed for harder requirements on his regime\u2014which I believe, in the longer term, will create the conditions for a just peace between Israelis and Palestinians with a viable two-state solution.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4538", "PLASKETT PROGRESSES MULTIPLE BIPARTISAN PIECES OF MAJOR LEGISLATION*", "2024-09-19", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nSeptember 19, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT PROGRESSES MULTIPLE BIPARTISAN PIECES OF MAJOR LEGISLATION\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement on two major pieces of legislation that successfully progressed through legislative markup in significant House Committees of jurisdiction:\n\n\u201cI am pleased to share that this week, H.R. 6084, the Expediting Disaster Recovery Act, which I reintroduced with my Republican colleague, Congressman Garret Graves, successfully passed the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee. This bill creates a separate funding stream for FEMA, after the declaration of a major disaster, to expeditiously (within 30 days) allocate additional assistance to cover unmet needs as a result of such disaster. Since we are amid hurricane season and are on the frontlines of climate change, it continues to be abundantly clear that our territory and other disaster-impacted areas need the support of the federal government to rebuild lives, businesses, and communities as quickly as possible. This bill cuts out some of the unnecessary federal process to put a minimum amount of long-term recovery funding on the ground in the immediate aftermath of a major disaster, without taking away oversight of taxpayer dollars.\n\n\u201cAdditionally, I am proud to share that H.R. 920, the Caribbean Border Counternarcotics Strategy Act, which I co-sponsored with my Republican colleague and fellow Caribbean sister, Congresswoman Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon has progressed through the House Oversight & Government Reform Committee as part of legislation to reauthorize the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). This critical legislation provides statutory authority for the requirement for the ONDCP to include a Caribbean Border Counternarcotics Strategy in its National Drug Control Strategy. This strategy must include measures for preventing the illegal trafficking of drugs through the Caribbean region into the United States, including measures to combat drug trafficking and drug-related violent crime in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.\n\n\u201cI would like to thank both Congressman Graves and Congresswoman Gonzalez-Colon, Chairman Comer, Ranking Member Raskin and their teams for their willingness to work across the aisle to advance these two timely pieces of legislation for the Virgin Islands and the Caribbean region.\n\n\u201cThese bills must still come the Floor of the House of Representatives and be passed by the House and Senate before they go to the President\u2019s desk for signature into law,\u201d said Congresswoman Plaskett. \u201cIn addition, we are working to have companion measures considered by the Senate.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4536", "Ranking Member Plaskett Demands Chairman Jordan Investigate Russian Attempts to Interfere in the Upcoming Presidential Election", "2024-09-09", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 9, 2024\n\nCONTACT: Matt Jansen 202-494-1278\n\nWASHINGTON, DC \u2014Today, Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett (D-VI), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government, wrote to Chairman Jim Jordan (R-OH) demanding an investigation into the Department of Justice's recent announcement that it has indicted Russian actors attempting to interfere in the United States Presidential elections.\n\nThe full letter can be found here and below:\n\nI am writing this letter regarding the Department of Justice\u2019s recent announcement that it has indicted Russian actors attempting to interfere in the United States Presidential elections. I urge you to immediately launch a committee investigation and hold a hearing on these serious allegations. With less than 60 days left until the election, it is critical that we ensure the Department of Justice and other agencies have the support and resources they need to combat foreign malign actors who seek to interfere in our democratic process.\n\nOn September 4, 2024, the Department of Justice that it had seized 32 internet domains being used by Russia to covertly influence our elections. As Attorney General Garland explained, \u201cPresident Vladimir Putin\u2019s inner circle, including Sergei Kiriyenko, directed Russian public relations companies to promote disinformation and state-sponsored narratives as part of a campaign to influence the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election.\u201d The seized sites were chock full of Russian propaganda intended to reduce support for Ukraine, promote Russian interests, and influence American voters. Separately, the Department announced charges against Russian nationals Kostiantyn Kalashnikov and Elena Afanasyeva for violations of the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) and conspiracy to commit money laundering. The Department revealed that RT, a well-known Russian state media company, directed nearly $10 million to a Tennessee-based company to pump Russian propaganda through social media. The U.S. company created 2000 videos (with more than 16 million views on YouTube), many of which were intended to \u201camplify domestic divisions in the United States.\u201d\n\nThe irony of this week\u2019s announcement is not lost on me. For the past nearly two years, you have thrown the full weight of this Committee to investigate benign efforts by the FBI\u2019s Foreign Influence Task Force (FITF) to warn social media companies about covert foreign malign influence operations on their platforms. Despite dozens of transcribed interviews of representatives from both the FBI and social media companies, millions of pages of documents, numerous hearings, and countless subpoenas, you have found no evidence to support your theory that the United States Government ever coerced or colluded with companies to suppress free speech in this regard. What you have done, however intentionally, is create an atmosphere of fear. After years of being falsely accused of wrongdoing by this Committee, it would be understandable for federal officials and platform representatives to be reluctant to engage in this critical information sharing. I also fear that foreign actors like Russia are emboldened when they see the division you have sowed over the FBI\u2019s most basic efforts to counter these influence operations.\n\nI understand that it may be difficult for you and Committee Republicans to resist looking the other way when it comes to Russian efforts to bolster Donald Trump\u2019s candidacy. While this approach may be politically expedient for your party in the short-term, it will lead to severe consequences to the future of our democracy. We should all agree that any foreign interference, regardless of which political party benefits, is reprehensible and cannot be tolerated. I hope that you honor the solemn oath you took to defend the United States Constitution, from all enemies, foreign and domestic, and that you will join me showing Russia, Iran, China and all other world countries that we are united in our resolve that Americans, not foreign actors, will determine the next leader of our great country.\n\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4537", "PLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON SHOOTING AT WEST INDIAN AMERICAN LABOR DAY PARADE", "2024-09-02", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nSeptember 2, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON SHOOTING AT WEST INDIAN AMERICAN LABOR DAY PARADE\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement:\n\nI was very saddened to hear of the shooting that took place today at the West Indian American Day Parade in Brooklyn. New York\u2019s West Indian American Labor Day Carnival is the largest cultural event in the United States and Canada, drawing millions of visitors each year, and despite the disruption, the festivities continued, demonstrating the resilience and spirit of Caribbean people.\n\nMy prayers are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.\n\n###\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4535", "PLASKETT MOURNS PASSING OF HOUSE COLLEAGUE - CONGRESSMAN BILL PASCRELL", "2024-08-21", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nAugust 21, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT MOURNS PASSING OF HOUSE COLLEAGUE - CONGRESSMAN BILL PASCRELL\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett joins her colleagues in mourning the passing of Congressman Bill Pascrell (NJ-08).\n\n\u201cI am deeply saddened by the news of Congressman Pascrell\u2019s passing. Bill was an incredible fighter, not just for the people of New Jersey but for all Americans. He dedicated his life to public service\u2014as a veteran, former public-school teacher, two-term mayor of Paterson, NJ, state assemblyman, eventually going on to serve in Congress for almost 30 years.\n\n\u201cI first worked with Bill to save Alexander Hamilton\u2019s image on US currency when there was discussion to change it. Pascrell was fierce and unrelenting - with Bill, we won. My time with him on Ways and Means has been no less intense. Bill fought tirelessly for the people of his district, Americans who want the best for themselves, their families, and their country. The same as most Americans: therefore, it was easy to align with him on so much.\n\n\u201cCongressman Pascrell will be missed by House Democrats, myself and my staff. My team member, Bob Evans, worked previously for Bill\u2019s office and continued to be fond of him and considered himself also part of the Pascrell team - that is a tribute to Bill\u2019s mentorship. I offer my deepest condolences to his wife, Elsie, his children and grandchildren and all those who loved him.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4528", "PLASKETT URGES VIRGIN ISLANDERS TO PREPARE FOR IMPENDING WEATHER", "2024-08-12", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nAugust 12, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT URGES VIRGIN ISLANDERS TO PREPARE FOR IMPENDING WEATHER\n\nUS Virgin Islands \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement:\n\n\u201cThe National Weather Service has issued a tropical storm warning for the U.S. Virgin Islands in addition to much of the eastern Caribbean. The advisory means that tropical storm conditions are expected somewhere within the warning area within 36 hours. I urge each of us to heed all warnings and take every precaution necessary to prepare for the impending storm. Subscribe to the VITEMA alerts by visiting https://vitema.vi.gov and make sure to secure the sand and sandbags being distributed at multiple fire stations throughout the territory on Tuesday, August 13th, if needed for your homes and businesses. For more information and assistance, please reach out to VITEMA at 340-772-2244.\n\n\u201cIt is imperative that we practice safety, particularly during hurricane season in order to prevent unnecessary accidents or unfortunate incidents. Thank you to all of our first responders and the linemen and women of the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority, who often times risk their lives to ensure that we are safe and that our power is able to be restored in a timely fashion.\u201d\n\nIn case of emergency, please dial 911.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4527", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES BENEFIT REPLACEMENT PROGRAM FOR SNAP RECIPIENTS AFFECTED BY ROLLING BLACKOUTS", "2024-08-09", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nAugust 9, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT ANNOUNCES BENEFIT REPLACEMENT PROGRAM FOR SNAP RECIPIENTS AFFECTED BY ROLLING BLACKOUTS\n\nU.S. Virgin Islands \u2013 The United States Department of Human Services (DHS) allows for individuals who are served through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to receive replacement SNAP benefits due to loss of food purchased with SNAP benefits. Accordingly, individuals who receive SNAP benefits and experience a power outage lasting four or more hours may be eligible to have food lost during the outage replaced. The Virgin Islands Department of Human Services (VIDHS) Division of Family Assistance is presently working to determine qualifications and provide the necessary framework to initiate the replacement of SNAP benefits if the events qualify.\n\n\u201cIt is critically important for our leaders to respond timely to ensure that those desperately in need of these replacement benefits receive them as quickly as possible, particularly since the recurring power outages affect our most vulnerable populations on a different level,\u201d shared Congresswoman Plaskett. \u201cI must share that my fantastic team were the ones that reached out to the VIDHS several weeks ago to inform them that this replacement program should be made available to Virgin Islands SNAP recipients. I\u2019m pleased that Commissioner Averil George and VIDHS are taking steps to address the food loss being experienced by SNAP recipients in our territory.\u201d\n\nEach eligible family will be able to apply for additional stamps to replace food that may have been lost during power outages. Food losses must be reported within 10 days; applications can be picked up at any SNAP office location or downloaded online at http://www.dhs.gov.vi/. SNAP recipients may contact the VIDHS Division of Family Assistance at the following numbers:\n\nSt. Croix: 340-772-7100 ext. 7159/7166 or 340-772-7120\n\nSt. Thomas/St. John: 340-774-0930 ext. 4303 or 340-774-2399\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4513", "PLASKETT AND USVI LEGISLATURE ADVOCATE FOR RELIABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE", "2024-08-01", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nAugust 1, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nCongresswoman Stacey Plaskett and the Legislature of the Virgin Islands continue to advocate for reliable energy solutions and technical assistance in the U.S. Virgin Islands amid a power outage rotation schedule, power generation capacity and distribution challenges, and outdated equipment.\n\nEarlier this month, Congresswoman Plaskett hosted United States Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm and professional staff from the U.S. Department of Energy and White House staff in the Virgin Islands. During this visit, Secretary Granholm, Congresswoman Plaskett, and staff conducted a site tour of the Randolph Harley power plant on St Thomas. This was followed by roundtable discussions with local government officials and private stakeholders on how to create a more resilient and reliable energy grid, which can provide affordable, reliable power to the people of the Virgin Islands. During her visit, Secretary Granholm called the power reliability issues \u201cunacceptable\u201d and relayed the willingness of the U.S. Department of Energy to provide technical assistance.\n\nFollowing the roundtable, Congresswoman Plaskett hosted a summit on St Croix entitled, \u2018A Reimagined Virgin Islands\u2019 to convene local and federal partners along with the private sector for a discussion of impactful insights and best practices for infrastructure rebuilding and energy issues of the Virgin Islands. Attendees were engaged and came up with next steps and plans to convene again to mark progress.\n\n\u201cSeven years ago, our community\u2019s infrastructure was devastated by Hurricanes Irma and Maria, leaving our critical infrastructure decimated.\n\n\u201cOut of devastation came the opportunity to transform our territory and rebuild our critical infrastructure in a more resilient manner with profound funding from the federal government,\u201d said Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett.\n\nThroughout the roundtables with Secretary Granholm and the subsequent \u2018A Reimagined Virgin Islands\u2019 summit, there was clear agreement between federal agencies, local agencies, and the 35th Legislature of the Virgin Islands that the modernization of the electrical grid and water system will yield the production of reliable, affordable, sustainable energy.\n\nFollowing the events hosted by Congresswoman Plaskett, Senators Milton Potter, Donna Frett-Gregory and Samuel Carrion, worked collaboratively to advance Bill 35-0311 to mandate the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA) to submit a proposed modernization plan to the Legislature of the Virgin Islands within 270 days. The plan must outline steps and a timeline for implementing upgrades to the electrical grid after receiving technical assistance from several relevant federal agencies. The bill passed unanimously (14-0 with one member absent) and will go to Governor Bryan for consideration.\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett is honored to work as a convener and applauds the Legislature of the Virgin Islands for their timely legislative response, and for their collaboration with her office during the visit of Secretary Granholm and her team.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4514", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES DISCRIMINATION FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM PAYMENTS TO VIRGIN ISLANDS FARMERS", "2024-08-01", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nAugust 1st, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nThis week, the Biden-Harris Administration announced it has issued payments to eligible applicants under Section 22007 of the Inflation Reduction Act through the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program (DFAP), which aims to provide financial assistance to farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination in USDA farm lending prior to January 2021.\n\n\u201cThis program is an important acknowledgement of the past inequities perpetuated by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and this country against not just black farmers but black businesses. This is an important step to rebuild trust with communities and create a stronger, more resilient farm sector,\u201d said Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett.\n\n\u201cI am grateful to the local USDA office here in the Virgin Islands and my team for getting the word out to our farmers about this opportunity. 130 Virgin Islanders are receiving payments - both farmers who had or have farming or ranching operations and as well farmers who had planned to have operations but were unable as a railroad of USDA actions. Our Virgin Islands recipients will receive in total $3,688,430.\u201d\n\n\u201cI would like to thank the Biden-Harris Administration for their commitment to transforming America\u2019s food system and look forward to the continued historic investments in rural America; specifically, places like the Virgin Islands, to promote equity and the removal of systemic barriers. I remain committed to elevating the concerns of our farmers and ranchers and ensuring equitable access to federal programs and funding.\u201d\n\nFor more information on the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program, visit the website here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4515", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES DISCRIMINATION FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM PAYMENTS TO VIRGIN ISLANDS FARMERS", "2024-08-01", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nAugust 1st, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nThis week, the Biden-Harris Administration announced it has issued payments to eligible applicants under Section 22007 of the Inflation Reduction Act through the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program (DFAP), which aims to provide financial assistance to farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination in USDA farm lending prior to January 2021.\n\n\u201cThis program is an important acknowledgement of the past inequities perpetuated by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and this country against not just black farmers but black businesses. This is an important step to rebuild trust with communities and create a stronger, more resilient farm sector,\u201d said Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett.\n\n\u201cI am grateful to the local USDA office here in the Virgin Islands and my team for getting the word out to our farmers about this opportunity. 130 Virgin Islanders are receiving payments - both farmers who had or have farming or ranching operations and as well farmers who had planned to have operations but were unable as a railroad of USDA actions. Our Virgin Islands recipients will receive in total $3,688,430.\u201d\n\n\u201cI would like to thank the Biden-Harris Administration for their commitment to transforming America\u2019s food system and look forward to the continued historic investments in rural America; specifically, places like the Virgin Islands, to promote equity and the removal of systemic barriers. I remain committed to elevating the concerns of our farmers and ranchers and ensuring equitable access to federal programs and funding.\u201d\n\nFor more information on the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program, visit the website here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4508", "PLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT BIDEN\u2019S DECISION TO WITHDRAW FROM THE 2024 RACE", "2024-07-21", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJuly 21, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nToday, Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett issued the following statement on the President Joseph Biden\u2019s, withdraw from the 2024 race:\n\n\u201cI am one of the staunchest supporters of Joe Biden. In tough times, we knew Joe had our backs and we had his. We love and honor our president and extend our heartfelt gratitude for his leadership. We\u2019ve been \u2018ridin\u2019 with Biden,\u2019 even when the road got rough.\n\n\u201cI am now committed to ensuring that Vice President Kamala Harris, endorsed by President Biden, becomes our next nominee, and the first woman to be president of the United States of America. She is the most qualified. I was one of the first Members of Congress to endorse then Senator Harris when she offered herself to be the nominee in 2020. I have supported the Democratic ticket and have been incredibly honored to work with President Biden as one of the most consequential Presidents of our time. Now, I stand ready to roll up my sleeves and ensure that Kamala Harris is elected in November. I am 100% TEAM HARRIS!\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4507", "PLASKETT MOURNS PASSING OF HOUSE COLLEAGUE--CONGRESSSWOMAN SHEILA JACKSON LEE", "2024-07-20", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJuly 20, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nToday, Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett joins her colleagues in mourning the passing of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18).\n\n\u201cCongresswoman Jackson Lee was a tremendous leader and fierce advocate for women and minorities,\u201d said Congresswoman Plaskett. \u201cI relied on her intellect, her legal acumen, and her example of grit and disciplined, hard work. She was my true big sister - a fellow child of the Caribbean raised in New York City. She is an example of fulfilling the biblical mandate that to whom much is given and sacrificed for, much is required. Sheila gave her all!\n\n\u201cHer unwavering dedication to public service should be an inspiration to us all and drive us to continue our relentless pursuit for a more just society and continue the work to protect our democracy.\n\n\u201cThe Honorable Sheila Jackson Lee will be dearly missed by my staff, House Democrats, and myself. We lost a trailblazer in the House. It is up to us to keep her legacy going. I offer my deepest condolences to her staff and entire family.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4509", "PLASKETT HOSTS SUMMIT WITH LOCAL AND FEDERAL PARTNERS TO ENGAGE IN CONVERSATION ON REBUILDING THE TERRITORY", "2024-07-18", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJuly 18, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nThis week, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett, alongside local and federal partners, hosted a summit to explore impactful insights and best practices for infrastructure rebuilding and energy issues of the Virgin Islands. The summit, entitled \u201cA Reimagined Virgin Islands,\u201d engaged local and federal partners, and participants in conversation through panel discussion topics including, local project management challenges and timelines; federal and local government policies, processes, and challenges; and using public funding to advance energy efficiency and economies.\n\n\u201cSeven years ago, our community\u2019s infrastructure was devasted by Hurricanes Irma and Maria, leaving our critical infrastructure decimated. Out of devastation came the opportunity to transform our territory and rebuild our critical infrastructure in a more resilient manner with profound funding from the federal government,\u201d said Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett. \u201cThe rebuilding summit demonstrates the crucial opportunity placed upon us particularly in light of President Biden\u2019s declaration earlier this year, which cut cost share requirements from 10 percent (equaling at least $1.5 billion) for critical rebuilding projects approved before September 30, 2024, and completed over the next 10 years, and 5 percent otherwise. I am extremely grateful to our local and federal agencies, as well as private sector partners for participating in conversations on the issues, best practices and providing insights initiatives and scopes of work to assist with the transformational endeavor of reimagining our island.\u201d\n\nPanelists and moderators at the summit included:\n\nFEMA | USVI Recovery Office Senior Advisor Derval Wiltshire-Petersen\n\nFEMA | Director of the Public Assistance Division Robert Pesapane\n\nUS Department of Energy | Senior Project Manager (GDO) Pete Gingrass\n\nUS Department of Energy | Senior Consultant to the DOE Loan Programs Office Dan Cross-Call\n\nEPA | Director of Caribbean Environmental Protection Division Carmen Guerrero P\u00e9rez\n\nVI Office of Disaster Recovery | Director Adrienne Williams-Octalien\n\nVI Department of Education | Commissioner Dionne Wells-Hedrington\n\nVI Department of Public Works | Commissioner Derek Gabriel\n\nVI Energy Office | Director Kyle Fleming\n\nVI Housing Finance Authority | Executive Director Eugene Jones\n\nSchneider Regional Medical Center | Chief Executive Officer Tina Comissiong\n\nWitt O\u2019Brien\u2019s | Associate Managing Director Alicia Barnes\n\nThe recording of the summit is available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4510", "PLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON RELEASE OF HUD FUNDING FOR PURCHASE OF WAPA FUEL INFRASTRUCTURE", "2024-07-16", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJuly 16, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nThis week, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced the release of $100 million in Community Development Block Grant \u2013 Mitigation (CDBG-MIT) funds to the U.S. Virgin Islands for the purchase of fuel storage infrastructure on St. Thomas and St. Croix from VITOL.\n\n\u201cWhile I previously expressed my reservations about the use of such precious funds to make the purchase of VITOL infrastructure, which then settles the Government of the Virgin Islands agreement with VITOL \u2013I am, as always, grateful for the relationship the Virgin Islands has with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority\u2019s (WAPA) agreement and relationship with VITOL was an unbalanced, problematic one, with VITOL\u2019s continued efforts to extract what appear to be usury rates on a past debt.\n\n\u201cCommunity Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds are designated to facilitate long-term recovery, and in the case of the Virgin Islands, included targeted funding to mitigate future disaster risks through CBDG-MIT. Specifically, this funding is intended to increase resilience to disasters and reduce or eliminate the long-term risk of loss of life, injury, damage to and loss of property, and suffering and hardship, by lessening the impact of future disasters. Specifically, projects related to housing and roads are great uses of these funds.\n\n\u201cNonetheless, utilizing the CDBG-DR funding to pay off the VITOL debt was Governor Bryan\u2019s decision, and it is my hope that with this purchase, our relationship with VITOL will come to an end and the Virgin Islands will find new vendors for propane fuel transport.\n\n\u201cThe people of the Virgin Islands deserve affordable, reliable power and I am hopeful that this purchase will help strengthen the resilience of our territory\u2019s utility and an increased hardening of our energy infrastructure.\n\n\u201cMy office continues to stand ready to serve as a federal partner and provide support to Governor Bryan, the Legislature of the Virgin Islands and the Virgin Islands Energy Office in resolving the crisis at WAPA.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4512", "PLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT ON U.S. ENERGY SECRETARY JENNIFER GRANHOLM FOR ENERGY ROUNDTABLE WITH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE STAKEHOLDERS", "2024-07-15", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJuly 15, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nST. THOMAS, USVI \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett welcomed U.S. Secretary of Energy, Jennifer Granholm and other professional staff from the U.S. Department of Energy for a roundtable with local government officials and private stakeholders regarding the ongoing recovery and energy transition in the territory and opportunities for federal and local coordination to create a more resilient, reliable energy grid.\n\n\u201cI am very pleased that Secretary Granholm and her team were able to join us this week,\u201d stated Congresswoman Plaskett. \u201cTheir presence in our territory and willingness to meet with us and make numerous site visits, including the Randolph Harley power plant on St. Thomas, is continued evidence of the Biden-Harris Administration\u2019s commitment to investing in energy to transform systems in a way that promotes resilient, reliable, and affordable energy in communities like the Virgin Islands.\n\n\u201cI would like to thank Secretary Granholm for her partnership and for sharing her team\u2019s wealth of knowledge with our territory. It is my hope that we can all learn and apply what we have gleaned from our engagements not just this week and our discussions over the last few months, but also as we move forward,\u201d said Congresswoman Plaskett.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4504", "RANKING MEMBER PLASKETT EXPOSES THE PROJECT 2025 MANIFESTO", "2024-07-09", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJuly 9, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nRanking Member Stacey E. Plaskett provided the following opening statement on the eleventh hearing on the Weaponization of the Federal Government.\n\n*Please note that the text that is included below is not the full statement*\n\n\u201cFrom the early days of our nation's formation, our founding fathers were very clear -The upkeep of democracy requires constant, proactive maintenance.\n\n\u201cIn his letters to fellow Founding Father and his political opponent John Taylor, then former President John Adams wrote, \u2018Democracy has never been and never can be so durable as aristocracy or monarchy. Remember, Democracy never lasts long. It soon wastes, exhausts, and murders itself. There never was a democracy yet that did not commit suicide. Those passions are the same in all men under all forms of government, when unchecked produce the same effects of fraud. Violence and cruelty.\u2019\n\n\u201cAmerican democracy has always been a question of progress, not finality. Democracy has been given to us. With the blood, sweat, tears, and efforts of Americans who came before us.\n\n\u201cWe struggled long and hard to build and protect every democratic institution we have. Indeed, our country's dark past, the very foundation of our economic juggernaut on the world was premised on a sick institution called slavery. That some now want to even erase. This democracy that our ancestors struggled to bring us all into.\n\n\u201cFalls do not happen overnight, but the signs are there if you want to see them.\n\n\u201cIn this country, the right for a woman to choose what to do with her body, stripped away in 15 states, immigrant children being stripped away from their families. The gains of Black Americans for fair representation, voting rights, and the creation of an even playing field, stripped away.\n\n\u201cSlowly but surely, the structures, the laws, and the institutions intended to make the nation great have been and continue to be eroded. Not to mention the souls of the human race\u2014minorities, in particular\u2014being eroded every day by injustices. We have a blueprint that shows us how that's being done.\n\n\u201cProject 2025 plans to upend structures, institutions, and the basic rights that have supposedly been afforded to Americans to make it great. It's a playbook for Donald Trump's second term and a plan for the destruction of America as we know it. Despite flashy headlines printed over American flags and the likes of obnoxious men who give loud speeches about their love for making America great again. Project 2025 delivers no such thing. Project 2025 will slowly but surely strip away our rights.\n\n\u201cI've asked for a hearing about Project 2025 because I believe it is a dire warning to us all of an individual and others around him desire to weaponize the government for their own empowerment. It will rip our experts out of agencies to be replaced by sycophant political appointees. It will strip women of even more health care access and rights and will further dehumanize undocumented immigrants and punish their family members, even those who are American citizens, for daring to be associated with them. It will restrict free speech in schools to only allow far right approved agendas and curriculum. It will erode our freedoms all under the vague guise of making America great.\n\n\u201cAnd yes, because it is a grand Republican plan, Project 2025 calls for severe cuts to Medicare and Social Security. I'm not just saying that. The authors of Project 2025 are saying that.\n\n\u201cProject 2025 is something that's going to transcend the next 4 years, the next 10 years. It really is, for the first time in the history of the conservative movement, the apparatus for policy and personnel. We are in the process of the 2nd American Revolution, which will remain bloodless if the left allows it to be.\u201d\n\nView the full opening statement here.\n\nView the full transcript here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4505", "PLASKETT EXPRESSES GRATITUDE TO CONGRESSIONAL COLLEAGUES AND USAID FOR IMMEDIATE HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE OF $4.5 MILLION FOR CARIBBEAN COMMUNITIES IMPACTED BY HURRICANE BERYL", "2024-07-09", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJuly 9, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nCongresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett issued the following statement on the announcement of U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) providing $4.5 million of immediate humanitarian assistance to communities impacted by Hurricane Beryl.\n\n\u201cImmediately after learning of the impact of Hurricane Beryl on our Caribbean neighbors, I reached out to Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-12), who serves on the Appropriations Committee as the Ranking Democrat for the Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs. I am deeply grateful to USAID for providing this critical funding and to my colleague Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-12) for working with my office to elevate this issue and ensure the availability of funds.\n\n\u201cThis assistance will be used to repair shelters, address water and sanitation needs, support operations, and bolster overall relief efforts. Given the unpredictability of hurricane activity, it is essential that we remain engaged with our Caribbean communities, partners, and local governments to support and strengthen disaster preparedness and response efforts.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe immediate humanitarian assistance from USAID ensures that Caribbean communities impacted by Hurricane Beryl, including those in Grenada, Jamaica, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, have our support,\u201d said Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs Co-Chair of the Caribbean Caucus, I look forward to meeting with other members of the Caucus and with U.S. ambassadors to Caribbean nations affected by Hurricane Beryl to receive updates on the status of infrastructure, increase funding, and produce critical aid and materials tailored to specific community needs.\u201d\n\nFor more information on the USAID funding, visit the USAID website, here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4503", "OFFICES OF CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT CLOSED JULY 3-5 FOR EMANCIPATION DAY/INDEPENDENCE HOLIDAY", "2024-07-01", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJuly 1, 2024 202-808-6129\n\nThe offices of Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett in Washington D.C., St. Croix, and St. Thomas will be closed from Wednesday, July 3rd through Friday, July 5th in observance of the U.S. Virgin Islands Emancipation Day and the Independence Day holidays. All offices will reopen on Monday, July 8th.\n\nThis upcoming July 3rd marks the 176th year since our enslaved ancestors in the Danish West Indies secured their freedom by way of violent resistance in Frederiksted in 1848. Emancipation Day is a day of remembrance where we as Virgin Islanders pay homage to our ancestors and reflect on their bravery and courage. This significant day, followed closely by July 4th, Independence Day, highlights the American enduring pursuit of freedom and justice. Together these days remind us of the relentless fight for equity and equality.\n\nShould you need assistance during those days when the offices are closed, please call 340-778-5900 on St. Croix or 340-774-4408 on St. Thomas, leave a message and someone will respond in short order.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4501", "PLASKETT SHEDS LIGHT ON PROJECT 2025 CONCERNS IN LETTER TO CONGRESSMAN JIM JORDAN", "2024-06-27", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013Ranking Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government, Stacey Plaskett sent a letter to Jim Jordan, Chairman of the Committee on the Judiciary regarding her concerns about the insidious plan to dismantle our democracy and threaten the American people through Trump and the Heritage Foundations Presidential Transition Plan, popularly called - Project 2025.\n\n\u201cAs the Ranking Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government, I recognize my responsibility to bring to Representative Jordan\u2019s attention topics which warrant hearings and staff investigation of individuals and especially agencies and whole administrations which seek to weaponize our federal government against the people of this country.\n\n\u201cIn my letter to Chairman Jordan, I request that the select subcommittee examine, investigate and hold public hearing(s) on a clear and present danger to our federal system - what is known as the Presidential Transition Plan or more commonly, Project 2025. This plan\u2019s architects wish to impose a dictatorial revolution on the American People through the Project. This is an explicit plan by some of the closest policymakers and advisors to former President Donald J. Trump to organize an oppressive authoritarian state upon the re-election of Donald Trump to office in January 2025. Project 2025 is a plan to weaponize the federal government and I request that this select subcommittee hold a hearing to take its threats seriously.\n\n\u201cProject 2025\u2019s articulated plans to subjugate the Department of Justice to President Trump\u2019s whims, dismantle the Federal Bureau of Investigations which had been working to ensure that no one is above the law and eliminate the Departments of Education and Commerce among other actions, will make our nation less safe, less smart and less wealthy. By any measure, it is a playbook to consciously weaken our nation.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4500", "PLASKETT JOINS COLLEAGUES FOR PANEL DISCUSSION ON AI AND BLACK INNOVATORS", "2024-06-26", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Yesterday, Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett and colleagues Rep. Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and Rep. Yvette Clarke (NY-09) joined the Black Innovation Alliance, Microsoft and several distinguished panelists for the \u201cFuture of AI: Ensuring Equity for Black Innovators,\u201d event\u2014 a discussion on the future of artificial intelligence (AI) and equality for Black Innovators.\n\n\u201cIn an era of emerging technology, federal policymakers and AI experts must continue to increase discussions circulated around equity and opportunity for Black Innovators,\u201d said Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett. \u201cAs a founder of The Congressional Caucus on Black Innovation, my colleagues and I are committed to driving initiatives that ensure equitable access to technology, funding, and education in AI and other emerging technologies. Our goal is to create policies that foster transparency, accountability, and fairness in AI applications.\u201d\n\n\"As a Congress, it is crucial for us to address the challenges that Black innovators continue to face in the emerging Artificial Intelligence (AI) industry,\" said Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland. \"We must ensure that Black Americans have access to jobs, capital, and opportunities in the technology fields.\"\n\n\"As we enter the Age of AI and look upon the profound possibilities offered by these new technologies, it is imperative we do not lose sight of the grave potential for missteps and abuses on our path forward, said Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke. I\u2019m sincerely grateful to my dear colleagues, Congresswomen Plaskett and Strickland, for coalescing our nation\u2019s leading experts and paving the way for this necessary conversation. We are on the cusp of a technological revolution, and we must ensure Black Americans\u2019 place is secured in this exciting new future.\"\n\nThe event touched on key topics such as the role of AI in Black-owned businesses and ethical AI development and deployment. For more information on the Black Innovation Alliance and the Congressional Caucus on Black Innovation, visit Black Innovation Alliance \u2013 The Home of Black Innovation.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4498", "OFFICES OF CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT CLOSED FOR JUNETEENTH HOLIDAY", "2024-06-18", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "The offices of Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett in Washington D.C., St. Croix and St. Thomas will be closed on Wednesday, June 19th in observance of the Juneteenth holiday. All offices will reopen on Thursday, June 20th.\n\nJuneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. On Thursday, June 17, 2021, President Biden designated Juneteenth National Independence Day as a legal public holiday. This day represents not only the commemoration of the end of slavery in America, but the ongoing work to bring true equity and racial justice into our society.\n\nShould you need assistance during those days when the offices are closed, please call 340-778-5900 on St. Croix or 340-774-4408 on St. Thomas, leave a message and someone will respond in short order.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4484", "PLASKETT JOINS CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO NORMANDY IN HONOR OF D-DAY 80TH ANNIVERSARY", "2024-06-05", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 This week, Congresswoman Plaskett joins a bipartisan Congressional Delegation traveling to Normandy, France to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion. On Thursday, June 6, the delegation will take part in observances of the anniversary along with veterans and their families, active duty servicemembers, government and military officials and foreign dignitaries.\n\n\u201cIt is my honor to pay homage to the men and women who serve in the armed forces especially those Virgin Islanders who, despite their second-class status answered the call during World War II to defend our democracy and those who continue to defend America\u2019s best values and support the efforts of other nations to do the same,\u201d said Congresswoman Plaskett. \u201cOn the eightieth anniversary of D-Day, we honor the men who made the ultimate sacrifice and went directly into the heat of battle on behalf of their country during a time of great turmoil and danger. We as citizens, and as a community, are forever indebted to our servicemembers. Our resolve is that their sacrifice is not in vain as we continue to fight for liberty and justice for all, both at home and abroad.\u201d\n\n\u201cEighty years ago, these brave servicemembers went directly into conflict because they knew that the future of civilization was at stake,\u201d said Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. \"We remember the remarkable courage under fire of our veterans and know that America is free only because of their extraordinary bravery.\u201d\n\nThe D-Day Ceremony can be viewed here and begins approximately at 6:30am ET Thursday, June 6, 2024.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4471", "PLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE\u2019S RESPONSE TO CALLS TO CONDEMN THE INSULAR CASES", "2024-06-03", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett shared the following statement about the U.S. Department of Justice\u2019s response to calls from Members of Congress to condemn the Insular Cases:\n\n\u201cI am pleased that the Department of Justice has used this crucial opportunity to denounce the Insular Cases. Last month, I co-led a bipartisan, bicameral letter, signed by 43 Members of Congress, urging the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to condemn and cease reliance on the racist rulings of the Insular Cases that continue to negatively impact U.S. territories today.\n\n\u201cThe Department of Justice shared their emphatic agreement that the racist language and logic of the Insular Cases deserve no place in the law of the United States. The Department of Justice, \u2018unequivocally condemns the racist rhetoric and reasoning of the Insular Cases,\u2019 and unambiguously agrees that \u2018such reasoning and rhetoric are irreconcilable with foundational American principles of equality, justice, and democracy.\u2019 The Department of Justice will ensure that litigators do not rely upon the racist rhetoric and reasoning of the Insular Cases.\n\n\u201cFor far too long, this series of U.S. Supreme Court decisions have justified a racist and colonial legal framework that has disenfranchised the more than 3 million residents in the U.S. territories. The Insular Cases have denied residents equal constitutional rights, and any reliance upon these racist cases is indefensible.\n\n\u201cThis is an important step in advancing equity for the U.S. territories. While the efforts predate my time as a Member of Congress, I am proud to see our efforts come to fruition \u2013 and have the Department of Justice clarify their position and denounce the Insular Cases. I will continue to advocate for the reversal of the Insular Cases to ensure the fair treatment of the residents of the U.S. territories.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4472", "PLASKETT APPLAUDS HOUSE FLOOR PASSAGE OF LEGISLATION TO DESIGNATE ST. CROIX POST OFFICE IN HONOR OF VIRGIN ISLANDER, LT. GENERAL SAMUEL E. EBBESEN", "2024-06-03", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett\u2019s legislation to designate the Lt. Gen. Ebbesen Post Office (H.R. 5034) was passed on the House floor.\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett introduced this legislation in the 118th Congress to designate the St. Croix Post Office located at 2119 Market Square in Christiansted as the \u201cLieutenant General Samuel E. Ebbesen Post Office.\u201d\n\nLt. General Ebbesen, a native of St. Croix, has had a distinguished career in the military, business, community, and public service. He served in several key staff positions, and commanded at every level to include the First Brigade, 101st Airborne (Air Assault) Division, Ft. Campbell, KY; 6th Infantry Division, Ft. Wainwright, AK and the Second U.S. Army, Ft. Gillam, GA.\n\nLt. General Ebbesen shared, \u201cI continue to be humbled by the efforts of Representative Stacey Plaskett and her office to honor my service. Being present to bear witness to us being one step closer to the designation of the Market Square, Christiansted Post Office to my name is truly an honor.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am pleased to recognize Lt. General Ebbesen\u2019s many accomplishments during his lifetime,\u201d said Congresswoman Plaskett. \u201cThe naming of the Market Square Post Office on St. Croix as the Lt. General Samuel E. Ebbesen Post Office will enshrine his legacy as well as serve as an example of the thousands of Virgin Islanders who answer the call to duty in our armed forces. The designation of this federal building to recognize Lt. General Ebbesen\u2019s service is important.\u201d\n\nThis legislation will now be sent to the Senate floor for a vote. If passed in the Senate, it will be sent to the President to be signed into law.\n\nThe bill can be found here. Also, the Congresswoman\u2019s floor speech on the bill can be found on YouTube here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4470", "PLASKETT ACCOMPANIES BIDEN ON AIR FORCE ONE", "2024-05-29", "2024", "2024-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett accompanied President Joe Biden where they met Vice President Kamala Harris on Air Force One to attend a rally at Girard College and a later meeting with Black Businesses in Philadelphia, PA.\n\nPresident Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris launched a nationwide effort to mobilize Black voters. In his address at Girad College, Biden focused on promises he made and kept, reiterated working hard for all Americans, and recognized his accomplishments for Black Americans, including record funding for historically Black colleges and universities, forgiveness of federal student loan debt and pardons for simple possession of marijuana, new homeowner tax credits, reducing the cost of insulin, protecting the Affordable Health Care law and protecting the rule of law by appointing more black judges (and more black women judges) then all other presidents combined.\n\nPlaskett stated \u201cIt is an honor to stand with President Biden and represent the people of the Virgin Islands, who like all Americans are not asking for more than a fair shot and a level playing field to provide for their families, live in a safe environment with affordable education and healthcare, along with wealth creation opportunities for themselves and the next generation. Meeting people where they are is an essential component to a thriving democracy. We have to continue to increase engagement and encourage communities, especially marginalized communities to use their voice, and get out and vote.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:01:11Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4469", "PLASKETT EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF FORMER USVI COMMISSIONER PAM RICHARDS", "2024-05-24", "2024", "2024-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement expressing condolences on the passing of former USVI Tourism Commissioner, Executive Director of the Virgin Islands Legislature and District Director of the Office of Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett, Pam Richards.\n\n\u201cI was saddened to hear of Pam\u2019s passing. First and foremost, Pamela Richards was my friend. She dedicated much of her life to service in our territory. Pam was the epitome of a Virgin Islander, having spent portions of her life on each island. She filled many roles in our community and faithfully served on numerous boards and organizations, including as the chairperson of the Federation of St. Croix Taxi Associations and the Virgin Islands Port Authority, as well as a member of the Agriculture and Food Fair of the U.S. Virgin Islands Board of Directors, the Virgin Islands Commission on Judicial Conduct, United Way of St. Croix, St. George Village Botanical Garden and Our Town Frederiksted, Inc, and as the president of the St. John Historical Society. Pam strove to serve in any way she could and gave of her time and talent consistently. I particularly loved, no, adored her store with Virgin Islands and Caribbean books, crafts, art. Her presence in our community will be missed.\n\n\u201cI am absolutely heartbroken about Pam\u2019s passing. I can\u2019t say how much I will miss her sarcastic humor, our shared stories of our Virgin Islands historical tradition, culture, and people. Pam was one who I called to confirm family connections and then talk for some time just about life. I send my prayers for comfort and peace to her loved ones, family, and friends especially her brother and his wife.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:01:11Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4467", "KAINE, PLASKETT, CHERFILUS-MCCORMICK LEAD LETTER URGING SECURITY FUNDING FOR HAITI", "2024-05-22", "2024", "2024-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 22, 2024\n\nCONTACT: Janine Kritschgau (Kaine), (202) 365-2176; Tionee Scotland (Plaskett), (202) 808-1549; Clara Benice (Cherfilus-McCormick), (202) 834-0895\n\nKAINE, PLASKETT, CHERFILUS-MCCORMICK LEAD LETTER URGING SECURITY FUNDING FOR HAITI\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, joined Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (D-VI) and Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL), co-chair of the House Haiti Caucus, along with 39 House colleagues and 10 Senate colleagues in sending a letter to House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Michael McCaul and Senate Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member James Risch urging them to lift the hold on the State Department\u2019s request for $94 million for the Multinational Security Support mission (MSS) to Haiti.\n\n\u201cCongressional Republicans\u2019 refusal to support the Multinational Security Support mission in Haiti has become a serious obstacle to creating a pathway to the restoration of peace, security, and democratic governance,\u201d said Senator Kaine. \u201cAs a result, extremely dangerous conditions will persist, putting millions of lives at risk and driving irregular migration to our borders and shores. Kenya has generously offered to lead the international response, but the situation is dire and time is short. As Kenyan President William Ruto visits Washington this week, it is crucial that we find a path forward on these funds so the international community can work together to use all tools at our disposal to address this crisis expediently and comprehensively.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe people of Haiti have suffered profound political, security, and humanitarian crises with dignity and determination,\u201d said Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett. \u201cThe establishment of the Multinational Security Support mission (MSS) in Haiti is paramount to advancing the national security interests of the United States, demonstrating American leadership in the Caribbean, and providing a lifeline to the Haitian people. If we act decisively and together, Haiti has a fighting chance to mitigate the chaos plaguing its communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe situation in Haiti is dire. According to the United Nations, over 2,500 Haitians were killed or injured by gang violence during the first three months of 2024. Nearly 4.4 million people in Haiti are facing famine, and approximately 398,000 people have been forcefully kicked out of their homes by gangs. The Multinational Security Support mission (MSS) is essential to providing stability to Haiti and protecting America\u2019s national security,\u201d said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. \u201cFor over six months, Congressional Republicans have refused to provide the resources needed to carry out the MSS, despite the deteriorating situation on the ground.\u201d\n\nThe letter is signed by U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer (D-NY), Jack Reed (D-RI), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Jeffrey A. Merkley (D-OR), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), John W. Hickenlooper (D-CO), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Peter Welch (D-VT) and Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and U.S. Representatives Gabe Amo (D-RI-01), Joyce Beatty (D-OH-03), Shontel Brown (D-OH-11), Andr\u00e9 Carson (D-IN-07), Kathy Castor (D-FL-14), Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20), Shelia Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL-20), Yvette Clarke (D-NY-09), James E. Clyburn (D-SC-06), Gerald Connolly (D-VA-11), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30), Danny Davis (D-IL-07), Valerie Foushee (D-NC-04), Lois Frankel (D-FL-22), Maxwell Frost (D-FL-10), Daniel Goldman (D-NY-10), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05), Jahana Hayes (D-CT-05), Steven Horsford (D-NV-04), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL-01), Henry Johnson (D-GA-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA-37), Robin Jelly (D-IL-02), Summer Lee (D-PA-12), Lucy McBath (D-GA-07), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04), Grace Meng (D-NY-06), Kweisi Mfume (D-MD-07), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL-23), Joe Neguse (D-CO-02), Eleanor Norton (D-DC), Adam Schiff (D-CA-30), Terri Sewell (D-AL-07), Darren Soto (D-FL-09), Bennie Thompson (D-MS-02), Dina Titus (D-NV-01), Ritchie Torres (D-NY-15), Marc Veasey (D-TX-33), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24).\n\nText of the letter can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:01:11Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4468", "CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT CALLS OUT REPUBLICAN COLLEAGUES FOR DEFUNDING ATF", "2024-05-22", "2024", "2024-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett gives the following opening statement on the tenth hearing on the Weaponization of the Federal Government.\n\n*Please note that the text that is included below is not the full statement*\n\n\u201cLast week, after Trump insider and convicted criminal Steve Bannon demanded that Chairman Jordan do more to protect Donald Trump, this committee answered the call.\n\nIt's no accident that last week, this committee called as a witness a former defense attorney for Donald Trump in the classified documents case, Rudy Giuliani's former lawyer, and the attorney who has written and filed Chairman Jordan's amicus briefs to the Supreme Court to support Donald Trump's many indictments. Republicans rolled their eyes and snickered when I noted as the Ranking Democrat on the subcommittee that the plain goal of that hearing was to influence the New York Hush money trial against Donald Trump. Just so the public is clear how closely this committee is trying to link Donald J. Trump's criminal and civil matters and use this committee to act as outside defense special counsel\u2014two days ago, Robert Costello, a Republican witness from last week's hearing, was called by Donald Trump as a witness for the defense in that very trial and used his same manic, rambling testimony that he gave in this subcommittee. Thankfully now, maybe the Chairman and GOP members won\u2019t continue to be blasted by Fox News and other MAGA news outlets and blogs for not doing enough with the committee to support the former president.\n\nI know the American people don't believe that this is an appropriate use of the $20 million allocated to this committee. Holding six full hearings to bolster disproven lies that the government is colluding with social media companies to target conservatives; calling in an antisemitic, anti-vax racist conspiracy theorist who claims a worm ate part of his brain as a witness\u2026.\n\nSome of us in this Congress see the scourge of illegal guns coming across state and city lines to ravage communities with gun violence and death abuse, but these deaths happen everywhere, haunting every corner of the American experience, and without a robust federal law enforcement and ATF and FBI, Americans will die at a faster rate. I know that in the Virgin Islands, my home, our federal law enforcement play a critical role in combating the scourge of drugs and guns trafficking. Without these agencies, or with more guns available to bad people, my region, where I live, and all of America will be even more dangerous. Families of gun violence victims have their lives ripped apart and turned upside down in a moment.\n\nNone of that is helped or made a less common occurrence when we attack and undermine the ATF and the FBI. For Republicans on this committee, it\u2019s simply not a matter of caring about those mass victims. Families in Uvalde identified their children by shoes, because they could not identify them by the faces that they had looked at every day. It's easy to become desensitized in politics, but if that doesn't hurt you, if you don't feel anything for that, God help us all\u2026\u2026\u201d\n\n\u201cLet's not be mistaken. Republicans are not here today because they're concerned about the tragic loss of life during a police raid\u2026..\n\nAs we engage in this hearing, in the three or so hours we'll be sitting here before us, more than a dozen Americans will lose their lives to gun violence. It\u2019s a somber but necessary reminder of the gravity of what we discuss here today, and what's really at stake.\u201d\n\nView the full opening statement here.\n\nView the full transcript here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:01:11Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4466", "CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT REITERATES REPUBLICAN AGENDA AND INFLUENCE DURING SUBCOMMITTEE HEARING", "2024-05-15", "2024", "2024-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett gives the following opening statement on the tenth hearing on the Weaponization of the Federal Government.\n\n*Please note that the text that is included below is not the full statement*\n\n\u201cTwo weeks ago, in this same room, we watched as the Republican majority attempted to use the congressional hearing process to intervene in an ongoing Supreme Court case. Republicans here did so by suggesting that they are concerned how social media companies are bullied by the federal government.\n\nIn truth, these arguments are operating in the interest of securing an open season, where Russia and China can destabilize our democracy at will in the 2024 election. In bullying social media companies, they want to allow any and all foreign adversaries to dump lies and misinformation on social media in support of a would be fascist former President.\n\nWe all know that the former President Donald Trump exacts loyalty from all of his followers and especially GOP officials and those that work for him \u2013 blind loyalty \u2013 this case is no different. Many of them have high tailed it to New York to show him that they are with him and in term Donald Trump, \u2013 demands that every Republican official serve him like the incorrigible degenerate spoiled brat he is and use their positions to aid his criminal defense.\n\nAnd even after the embarrassment of recent hearings here, Donald Trump and his cronies don\u2019t think Chairman Jordan is doing enough!\u201d\n\nView the full opening statement here.\n\nView the transcript here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:01:11Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4464", "PLASKETT HOSTS NATIONAL POLICE WEEK RECEPTION HONORING FALLEN VI HEROES", "2024-05-13", "2024", "2024-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 This week, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett hosted a reception in honor of National Police Week honoring two fallen heroes from the U.S. Virgin Islands\u2014 Detective Delbert Phipps, Jr. and Patrolman Lionel E. Issac. Both VIPD officers lost their lives in the line of duty and will be added to the National Law Enforcements Officers Memorial Wall.\n\n\u201cTheir names will be forever engraved, and their integrity forever maintained,\u201d said Congresswoman Plaskett. \u201cOur men and women of the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) give their full measure of devotion, their bravery, resilience, and dedication, to perform their duties faithfully, and make the ultimate sacrifice.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett was joined by VIPD Commissioner Martinez, VIPD officers, and the family of Detective Phipps, Jr. for the reception.\n\n\u201cWhile today is a solemn time for us, today is a good time to see my officers smiling and celebrate the lives of Detective Phipps and Patrolman Issac,\u201d said Virgin Islands Police Department Commissioner, Ray Martinez. \u201cThis provides us and the Phipps family the opportunity to know that we are not alone. As much as it pains us for our loss, they will not be forgotten. Standing as a police commissioner I couldn\u2019t be more proud to be here, and pay homage to our brothers in arms.\u201d\n\n\u201cI lost my son Detective Phipps on July 4, 2023. One of the worst days of my life,\u201d said Denise Phipps, mother of fallen hero Detective Delbert Phipps, Jr. \u201cI am honored, and it feels a bit bittersweet as they remember and honor my son. What a joy and sadness to see that his name is there.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:01:11Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4454", "PLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT ON THE GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY OFFICE\u2019S REPORT TO ADDRESS TERRITORIAL DATA GAPS", "2024-05-09", "2024", "2024-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Upon the release of the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on federal data gaps in U.S. territory, U.S. Territories: Coordinated Federal Approach Needed to Better Address Data Gaps, Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cI would like to thank the GAO for publishing this report on federal data gaps in U.S. territories. Federal agencies have a duty to provide a government-wide strategy and best practices for addressing gaps in data collection and the subsequent impacts. However, the U.S. territories including the Virgin Islands face significant data gaps mainly due to exclusion from federal statistical programs, with costs, geographic challenges, and technical issues as contributing factors,\u201d said Congresswoman Plaskett.\n\n\u201cI co-sponsored the Territories Statistics Collection Equity Act, H.R. 1400, alongside Congressman Ra\u00fal Grijalva, Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee, and our colleagues representing the U.S. territories, to require the implementation of a plan for federal agencies to collect and publish statistics regarding U.S. territories in the same manner as the 50 states,\u201d stated Congresswoman Plaskett, \u201cThe GAO report recommends that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) develop a coordinated, government-wide strategy to involve the territories in federal statistical outputs and address these data gaps effectively.\u201d\n\n\u201cResidents of the U.S. territories deserve the same access to federal programs and resources as every other American, but historic inequities across the board continue to leave them behind,\u201d said Ranking Member Ra\u00fal M. Grijalva (D-Ariz.). \u201cAddressing the gaps and deficiencies in data collection is only one step, but a meaningful one, in bringing equity and justice to the territories. I urge the agencies to heed GAO\u2019s recommendations and work to put a government-wide strategy in place to improve data collection among the territories, and I encourage my colleagues to use this opportunity to advance the Territories Statistics Collection Equity Act now.\u201d\n\nClick here to read the full report.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:01:11Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4453", "PLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT ON THE PRESEVATION OF ESTATE WHIM, ST. CROIX, USVI", "2024-05-03", "2024", "2024-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett issued the following statement in full support of restoring Estate Whim, the oldest sugar plantation museum in the Virgin Islands, to its former glory:\n\n\u201cMy office and I fully support the restoration of Estate Whim,\u201d Congresswoman Plaskett said. \u201cThe Virgin Islands is home to several historic sites\u2014 Estate Whim being one of them. This site\u2019s historical and cultural contributions span from the 18th century to the present day, documenting records that detail our ancestors\u2019 diverse history, including artifacts, historic structures, traditional practices from across St. Croix, the Caribbean, Africa, Denmark, and greater Europe.\u201d\n\nThe National Trust for Historic Preservation recognized Estate Whim as an endangered site on their annual list of America\u2019s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places, highlighting the urgent need for preservation efforts at the Estate Whim Museum.\n\n\u201cWe must come together to prevent the erasure of cultural landmarks. Estate Whim has been treasured by generations of families and researchers, and is critical to the identity as Virgin Islanders. I am committed to working with the St. Croix Landmarks Society to preserve our ancestors\u2019 legacy and ensure a steady path towards full restoration.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:01:11Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4452", "CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT CALLS OUT REPUBLICANS DURING SUBCOMMITTEE HEARING FOR EFFORT TO INFLUENCE SUPREME COURT OPINION", "2024-05-01", "2024", "2024-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nMay 1, 2024 340-201-6453\n\nCONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT CALLS OUT REPUBLICANS DURING SUBCOMMITTEE HEARING FOR EFFORT TO INFLUENCE SUPREME COURT OPINION\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett, Ranking Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government, gives the following opening statement on the ninth hearing on the Weaponization of the Federal Government.\n\n*Please note that the text that is included below is not the full statement. *\n\n\u201cIt is the sixth hearing, like ground hog day, for the same supposed weaponization of social media through the curious case of the so-called \u2018Twitter Files,\u2019 the idea that the FBI and the Biden White House have stopped social media companies from free speech.\n\nRepublicans are holding this hearing today in a last-ditch effort to influence the Supreme Court\u2019s opinion in the case of Murthy v. Missouri.\n\nDuring oral arguments in March, six justices questioned Republicans\u2019 claim that federal government interactions with social media companies are tantamount to \u2018censorship.\u2019 The Supreme Court is presently working on in their chambers preparing a decision in that matter.\n\nOver and over again, social media company executives told the Cmmittee that no matter who identified concerning content \u2013 whether it be members of the general public, members of Congress, or White House employees \u2013 the companies evaluated the content against their own internal policies and only took action if the content violated those policies.\n\nAnd over and over again, social media company executives told the Committee in no uncertain terms that:\n\n\u00b7 No government official ever coerced them into taking action.\n\n\u00b7 No government official ever threatened them with any adverse consequences if their companies did not take action.\n\n\u00b7 And no government official ever promised them any benefits if they did take action.\n\nBut the Majority has consistently rebuked our requests that that testimony be made public. The Majority who have control of the tapes, likewise declined to provide us with copies of the hundreds of hours of video taken during this investigation.\u201d\n\nView the full opening statement here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:01:11Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4450", "PLASKETT MOURNS DEATH OF HOUSE COLLEAGUE REP. DONALD PAYNE, JR.", "2024-04-24", "2024", "2024-04", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nApril 24, 2024 340-201-6453\n\nPLASKETT MOURNS DEATH OF HOUSE COLLEAGUE REP. DONALD PAYNE, JR.\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Plaskett joins her colleagues in mourning the passing of Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr.\n\n\u201cCongressman Payne, Jr. truly exemplified people-first politics for the people of New Jersey. A fine American, Payne, Jr. not only was a champion of change, but a family man, with an exquisitely kind heart, and sense of humor.\n\n\u201cHe carried on a legacy of public service with the Payne name, following in his father\u2019s footsteps. He repeatedly advocated for better federal emergency response during the wake of Hurricanes Irma and Maria for Virgin Islanders and the people of Puerto Rico.\n\n\u201cDonald will be dearly missed by my family, staff, and the entire House Democratic Caucus. His warmth and impeccable fashion will remain in many fond memories of him. We lost a giant in the House. It is up to us to keep his legacy going. I offer my deepest condolences to his staff, children, and the entire Payne family.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T20:47:55Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4449", "PLASKETT APPLAUDS VIRGIN ISLANDS ENERGY OFFICE ON SOLAR FOR ALL FUNDING TO ADVANCE ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE", "2024-04-23", "2024", "2024-04", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nApril 23, 2024 340-201-6453\n\nPLASKETT APPLAUDS VIRGIN ISLANDS ENERGY OFFICE ON SOLAR FOR ALL FUNDING TO ADVANCE ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced this week that the Virgin Islands Energy Office (VIEO) was selected to receive approximately $62.5 million to develop solar programs - the highest amount available to the territory in this competitive grant program. The grant will enable low-income and disadvantaged households to benefit from solar power.\n\n\u201cI am very pleased that the Virgin Islands Energy Office was selected to receive the Greenhouse Gas Reductions Fund grant. Providing opportunities for energy resilience is paramount to improving the quality of life for our underserved residents and families. They deserve reliable, affordable, and clean power,\u201d said Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett.\n\nThe funding through the Solar for All grant program is part of the historic $27 billion Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, created under the President Biden\u2019s Inflation Reduction Act to address energy costs for families, produce quality jobs, and advance environmental justice.\n\n\u201cThe US Virgin Islands as a whole are a disadvantaged community that has been historically burdened by centralized fossil fuel-based power systems that suffer from high energy costs, and low reliability,\u201d said Kyle Fleming, Director of the Virgin Islands Energy Office. \u201cThe Virgin Islands Energy Office's successful selection of its Solar for All application has presented a historic opportunity for the territory to fast-track an equitable energy transition that holistically leverages the islands\u2019 most abundant natural resource.\u201d\n\nThe Congresswoman offered a letter of support to the VIEO last year upon applying for the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Funds. She highlighted the meaningful benefits of the Solar for All program including delivering household savings, increasing access for low-income and disadvantaged households, increasing resiliency by way of creating capacity, facilitating ownership models that support communities build equity projects, and investing in quality jobs and business.\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett shared, \u201cMy office was happy to support the VIEO in pursuing this competitive grant\u2014not only writing a letter of support, but also calling on the EPA Administrator, Michael Regan and the Biden Administration to support. I would like to congratulate Director Fleming and his team for their great work in securing this grant for our territory. We look forward to continuing to work with the VI Energy Office on this initiative and others in the best interest of all Virgin Islanders.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T20:47:55Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4448", "PLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARATION FOR VIRGIN ISLANDS WATER AND POWER AUTHORITY", "2024-04-22", "2024", "2024-04", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nApril 22, 2024 340-201-6453\n\nPLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARATION FOR VIRGIN ISLANDS WATER AND POWER AUTHORITY\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 In response to Governor Albert Bryan Jr.\u2019s declaration of a state of emergency for the US Virgin Islands utility system, Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett reaffirms her willingness to work with Governor Bryan, his administration and the 35th Legislature of the Virgin Islands as they contend with the continued struggle to operate an efficient Water and Power Authority (\u201cWAPA\u201d). Congresswoman Plaskett urges all parties to work together to create a stable utility system that supports the people and businesses of the Virgin Islands.\n\n\u201cToday, Governor Bryan declared a state of emergency regarding the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority and the recent rationing of power across our territory necessitated by the Authority\u2019s inability to meet its financial obligations,\u201d stated Congresswoman Plaskett. \u201cTransparency is important, and I recognize that such a declaration is difficult to make, but I appreciate the Governor addressing the real time concerns of Virgin Islanders as it pertains to WAPA. From 2019, I indicated that a state of emergency was a real option, and since then my team and I have made ourselves available to the local government to address our utility needs. This year alone, I have met repeatedly with WAPA\u2019s CEO, Andy Smith and WAPA management to monitor WAPA\u2019s financial situation and effectively direct federal support to the authority.\n\n\u201cAdditionally, I have directly advocated on the Virgin Islands Energy Office\u2019s application for the Biden Administration\u2019s Solar for All program, a competitive grant that my office was happy to support the VIEO in pursuing - not only writing letters of support but calling on the EPA Administrator Regan and the Biden administration to support. Since the 2017 hurricanes, my office has worked on WAPA\u2019s behalf to secure funding for the territory in the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, in the Inflation Reduction Act to include WAPA and other Virgin Islands government agencies as eligible for \u2018Direct Pay\u2019 incentives to fund clean energy production and delivery. I have also advocated and assisted to secure improved FEMA cost share waivers on major projects, which is resulting in hundreds of millions of dollars in additional federal funding immediately flowing to finance the rebuilding of our water and power infrastructure. In February, that cost share improvement meant WAPA received an additional $26,957,481 in federal funding for hazard mitigation on permanent repairs of the electrical distribution system as well as a further $17,724,516 for other needs; a month later WAPA received an additional $10,097,679.69 for permanent repairs to the St. John electrical distribution systems and infrastructure, and an additional $1,053,776.86 for the replacement of the Richmond Power Plant Historic Warehouse due to cost share adjustments. Nonetheless, we know these additional sources of funding are for long term projects and do not solve the immediate cash flow problems facing WAPA if its largest users, our government agencies, are unable to pay their bills.\n\n\u201cAs I stated in my letter to Governor Bryan and then Senate President Francis in 2019 (see letter here), declaring a state of emergency for WAPA and energy within our territory was appropriate then. It is even more so now. The people of the Virgin Islands deserve affordable, reliable power. My team and I have consistently advocated for WAPA and are demonstrably dedicated to supporting the authority in becoming solvent, as well as working with the Virgin Islands Energy Office to help the authority to meet the energy needs of our territory.\n\n\u201cI also look forward to the successful closing of the $140 million payment transaction to VITOL with the funds provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). WAPA\u2019s relationship with VITOL over the past 10 years has been an unbalanced, problematic one, with VITOL\u2019s continued efforts to extract what appear to be usury rates on a past debt. I am hopeful that the closure of WAPA\u2019s chapter with VITOL will enable the authority to go back to the open market in order to consider cheaper fuel options for its operations.\n\n\u201cMy office stands ready to work at the federal level with Governor Bryan, the Legislature of the Virgin Islands and the Virgin Islands Energy Office to provide support in resolving the crisis at WAPA.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T20:47:55Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4446", "PLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT ON CHAIRMAN JORDAN'S LETTER TO SOCIAL MEDIA COMPANIES", "2024-04-11", "2024", "2024-04", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nApril 11th, 2024 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT ON CHAIRMAN JORDAN'S LETTER TO SOCIAL MEDIA COMPANIES\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Ranking Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government, Stacey Plaskett sent a letter to Jim Jordan, Chairman of the Committee on the Judiciary regarding threatening letters to technology companies under the guise of \u201cconducting oversight of how and to what extent the Executive Branch has coerced or colluded with companies and other intermediaries to censor lawful speech.\u201d\n\nThe letters sent to Amazon, Apple, Alphabet, Meta and Microsoft [view the letters here] showcase the very instances Chairman Jordan claims the Select Subcommittee is supposed to combat - bullying and cajoling these companies to relax their standards when protecting American voters from disinformation and misinformation from our foreign adversaries.\n\n\u201cWith the timing of a presidential election so near, one cannot wonder if your motivation is not in fact to open Americans up to foreign influence operations in service of Donald Trump\u2019s 2024 presidential campaign,\u201d Ranking Member Plaskett included in her letter.\n\nIt is time for Chairman Jordan to come clean to the American people. This Select Subcommittee continuously calls on witnesses that cannot prove any of the allegations lodged against our federal law enforcement agencies including the FBI\u2019s Foreign Influence Task Force. \u201cYou know that the FBI\u2019s Foreign Influence Task Force is on the frontlines combatting Russian, Chinese and Iranian efforts to hurt American people, businesses, and government. Through multiple hearings, it is clear that the FBI\u2019s Task Force is critical to ensure a safe election.\u201d\n\nRanking Member Plaskett\u2019s ultimate question to Chairman Jordan is, \u201c... whether the House Judiciary Committee majority is consciously engaged in doing the work of America\u2019s adversaries.\u201d\n\nRead the letter here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T20:47:55Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4445", "PLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON FY 2024 APPROPRIATIONS PACKAGE", "2024-03-23", "2024", "2024-03", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nMarch 23, 2024 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON FY 2024 APPROPRIATIONS PACKAGE\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement after the recent, successful passage of the second and final Fiscal Year 2024 \u201cminibus\u201d appropriations bill:\n\n\u201cI am pleased to announce that bipartisan legislation to deliver for the American people was approved in the House of Representatives and U.S. Senate and signed into law by President Biden. This averts a partial government shutdown, which would have negative consequences for the Virgin Islands. This funding package sides with hardworking Americans to help families with the high cost of living and keep our communities safe. House Democrats successfully protected women\u2019s rights and investments in climate-related policies.\n\n\u201cThis appropriations bill invests in critical government programs and services to support education, job training, and placement programs as well as access to affordable, high-quality childcare. The minibus provides historic investments to strengthen our nation\u2019s defense capabilities, reaffirm our global commitment to fight climate change and bolster cyber security.\n\n\u201cIn addition, this legislation provides:\n\n$1.1 billion for SBA to support investments in programs to help underserved entrepreneurs access capital and contracting opportunities;\n\n$20.3 billion for major disaster response and recovery activities;\n\n$10 million for new fentanyl task forces and $10 million for investigative efforts tied to the expansion of non-intrusive inspection technology at ports of entry;\n\n$365 million, an increase of $12 million from fiscal year 2023, for Rural Health Programs;\n\n$1.4 billion for CTE State Grants, an increase of $10 million from fiscal year 2023;\n\n$174 million for School-Based Mental Health Services Grants and Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration Grants, an increase of $74 million from fiscal year 2023;\n\n$401 million for HBCUs; and\n\n$4 billion for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.\n\n\u201cThe minibus includes historic investments in key areas: Head Start and childcare programs, education, job training and placement programs. Furthermore, it strengthens our nation\u2019s defense capabilities, reaffirms our global commitments to combating climate change and improving global health, as well as allocates funding for border security and cybersecurity. House Democrats safeguarded investments in our communities and rejected many of the harmful proposals advanced by the House Republicans \u2013 including funding cuts to education and climate-related policies. The appropriations minibus will deliver for the Virgin Islands and support our community.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T20:32:04Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4418", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES INCLUSION OF FY24 COMMUNITY FUNDING PROJECTS IN GOVERNMENT FUNDING PACKAGE", "2024-03-08", "2024", "2024-03", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nMarch 8th, 2024 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT ANNOUNCES INCLUSION OF FY24 COMMUNITY FUNDING PROJECTS IN GOVERNMENT FUNDING PACKAGE\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett shared the following statement on the recent, successful passage of the government funding package that includes 12 community projects specifically for the Virgin Islands:\n\n\u201cEarlier this week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 4366, The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024, 6 out of the 12 spending bills extending funding thru September 30, 2024. I am very pleased that 12 of my office\u2019s Community Project Funding Requests were included in the first of the appropriations government funding packages. Our project funding requests specifically focus on providing social solutions through rural and economic development, education, and climate mitigation in our territory. The requests reflect the great priority my office places on the need for education, health care, community development and to provide more economic opportunities in our most vulnerable populations. Funding for the following 12 community projects were passed by the House this week.\n\nDeanna James, Executive Director of the St. Croix Foundation which received $1 million develop and revitalize available affordable housing units and affordable commercial building space in Christiansted shared:\n\n\u201cSt. Croix Foundation for Community Development is beyond grateful for the steady, unwavering support we continue to receive from Delegate Plaskett\u2019s Office for our Sunday Market Square Revitalization Project. As a small un-endowed place-based foundation spearheading one of the most holistic, civic-led community development initiatives in the U.S. Virgin Islands, this congressional allocation affirms the power of civic-public collaboration which can manifest radical and systemic social transformation in underserved, marginalized places like the U.S. Territories.\u201d\n\nAlso sharing in the excitement is Jenny Hawkes, Executive Director of My Brother\u2019s Workshop on St. Thomas, which received $1 million to construct a main campus building which will provide additional education and workforce development that will lead to employment and better financial stability:\n\n\u201cMy Brother\u2019s Workshop, Inc is overwhelmed with gratitude with this opportunity to expand workforce development in the USVI through our new training facilities. With our programs, that include wrap around services, our team will help individuals achieve their goals and help make our community even stronger. Thank you to everyone who worked so hard on identifying and creating this chance for funding and thank you to the Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett for fighting to better the lives in the USVI.\u201d\n\nKareem Edwards, Member of the St. Croix Farmers in Action Board shared:\n\n\u201cThe St. Croix Farmers in Action board is excited for this wonderful opportunity to be able to rehabilitate a 1-million-gallon cistern and 2 smaller cisterns, which will be a huge asset to the farmers of St. Croix. This project is part of the board\u2019s vision for sustainable economic development on the island of St. Croix and will provide a critical water source to the farmers in times of drought. We are extremely thankful for the Office of Stacey E. Plaskett for its diligence and believing in our vision for agricultural development.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe TWELVE community project funding requests passed this week are:\n\nTransportation, Housing & Urban Development\n\n$1,666,279 to Lord God of Sabaoth Evangelical Lutheran Church to improve and rehabilitate three real properties held by the Church within the city center of Christiansted, St. Croix, to increase affordable housing supply and re-activate a critical neighborhood service center to meet the needs of economically disadvantaged youth, seniors, and the wider St. Croix community.\n\n$1,000,000 to the St. Croix Foundation for Community Development to develop and revitalize available affordable housing units and affordable commercial building space in Christiansted.\n\n$1,000,000 to My Brother\u2019s Workshop to build Main Campus Building 2, a building which will provide additional education and workforce development that will lead to employment and better financial stability.\n\n$850,000 to the Virgin Islands Architecture Center for Built Heritage and Crafts to rehabilitate blighted property, the Old Barracks property on Hospital Street in Christiansted, into an historic preservation educational center that will teach, train, and certify Virgin Islands young people in the building arts of stone, wood, iron, and other crafts prevalent in the U.S. Virgin Islands and other historic U.S. and Caribbean towns.\n\n$1,000,000 to the Caribbean Centers for Boys & Girls of the Virgin Islands to rebuild and rehabilitate youth centers that were severely damaged by Hurricanes Irma and Maria.\n\n$510,000 to the Virgin Islands Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) for Gustave Quetel Fish Market facility renovation, the design and construction of solar lighting installments at the facility, and structural improvements to the roof.\n\n$850,000 to the World Ocean School to rehabilitate the National Historic Landmark, Roseway, for the benefit of educating primarily under resourced students.\n\nEnergy & Water\n\n$800,000 for the Army Corps of Engineers to continue and complete the post authorization change report required to be completed and submitted to Congress for the Army Corps to carry out the project for navigation for Christiansted Harbor.\n\n$300,000 for the Army Corps of Engineers to continue and complete the post authorization change report required to be completed and submitted to Congress for the Army Corps to carry out the project for navigation for Charlotte Amalie Harbor.\n\nCommerce, Justice & Science\n\n$438,000 to Coral World Ocean and Reef Initiative to investigate the effects of the influx and decomposition of sargassum as well as monitor nesting beaches for hatchling sea turtles trapped or distressed by sargassum.\n\n$963,000 to the Virgin Islands Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) to carry out industrial solutions or direct removal of harmful sargassum algal blooms in the Virgin Islands.\n\nAgriculture\n\n$1,000,000 to St. Croix Farmers in Action to rehabilitate an existing 1-million-gallon cistern and two smaller cisterns on the Bethlehem Sugar Factory Site.\n\n\u201cAdditionally, through the work of President Biden, House Democrats, Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro, Leader Jefferies and our Democratic appropriators, we ensured WIC is fully funded, countering drastic Republican cuts that would take food out of the mouths of 1.4 million women, infants and children. The bipartisan spending bill invests in our nation\u2019s affordable housing, and we continue to support veterans, families and seniors working to make ends meet and protecting victims of domestic violence and other vulnerable communities with funding for critical public safety programs.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T20:32:04Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4419", "FORMER MPD OFFICER MICHAEL FANONE AT THE HOUSE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE\u2019S SELECT SUBCOMMITTEE ON THE WEAPONIZATION OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT - \u201cWE ARE A GOVERNMENT OF LAWS, NOT MEN\u201d", "2024-03-07", "2024", "2024-03", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nMarch 7, 2024 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nFORMER MPD OFFICER MICHAEL FANONE AT THE HOUSE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE\u2019S SELECT SUBCOMMITTEE ON THE WEAPONIZATION OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT - \u201cWE ARE A GOVERNMENT OF LAWS, NOT MEN\u201d\n\nWashington, D.C. - Democratic witness, former MPD Officer Michael Fanone gave the following opening statement before House Select Committee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government:\n\nMr. Chairman and Members of this Committee, I thank you for inviting me here today to answer questions regarding the events that occurred at the United States Capital on January 6, 2021. I would like to tell you that I have forgotten some of the events of that day or that my recollection is not as clear as it once was, but that would not be the truth. The events of January 6 are as vivid to me now as when they occurred over three years ago. While the physical scars of that day have healed, the emotional scars still remain.\n\nWe are \u2018a government of laws, not of men.\u2019 I spent nearly two decades as a law enforcement officer trying to enforce the law. My career began in the United States Capitol as a Capitol Police Officer and ended when called upon as a Metropolitan Police Department Officer to protect the Capitol against a mob of people. While much of my career involved dangerous encounters with violent criminals, that experience was unlike what I experienced when I urgently responded to the Capitol on January 6.\n\nI am here to tell you what happened to me on that day and what I saw and heard happening to fellow officers. As for me, I was violently grabbed, restrained, beaten, tased, all while being called a traitor to my country. I was at risk of being stripped of and killed with my own firearm as I heard chants of, \u201cKill him with his own gun.\u201d My body camera video captured the violence of the crowd directed towards me during those very brutal moments. The portions of the video I have seen remain extremely painful for me to watch, but doing so is crucial to fully understand what really happened that day and the extent of the violence. During those moments, I remember thinking there was a very good chance I could be killed, and my thoughts were of my children who might lose their father.\n\nWhile I am here to share my experience, I know that hundreds of other law enforcement officers responded that day, were outnumbered, and acted with tremendous bravery to protect the Capitol and all those present inside who serve our country. Those officers stood have suffered injuries, both physical and emotional. They too have been scarred, some visible, and some that cannot be seen. 2 I think of them often, like my partner, Jimmy Albright, who dragged me to safety, while I was unconscious, and who drove me to the emergency room though injured himself. I think about then Commander Ray Kyle who like so many of us self-deployed to the Capitol and who organized the defense of the Lower West Terrace Tunnel. His rally cry, \u201cDo not give up the door\u201d echoes through my thoughts. I think of all the brave men and women, newly minted officers and those nearly retired, who responded to the call of service that day in the defense of our nation, and those who are still on the front lines each and every day to make our cities safe and to protect our institutions of government.\n\nI appear today, not to give my opinion or analysis or to advocate for some action, but simply to bear witness. I leave whatever actions should be taken to your wisdom, and where we go as a nation to the American people. I have no agenda or affiliation. I do not come with malice in my heart, but only with a deep love of this country, which I know is shared by so many others, both young and old, both Republican and Democrat. And in this process of speaking and more importantly, listening to each other, hopefully we can come together as one nation, with shared values of wanting tomorrow to be better than today, with the hope and confidence that what we do each and every day is for the singular purpose of trying to provide a better life for our children and for our children\u2019s children in the generations to come.\n\nI thank you for your invitation to be here today and for the opportunity of speaking with you.\u201d\n\nView the full opening statement here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T20:32:04Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4420", "PLASKETT HOSTS VIRGIN ISLANDS NATIONAL GUARD BRIGADIER GENERAL SALLY PETTY FOR PRESIDENT BIDEN\u2019S STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS", "2024-03-06", "2024", "2024-03", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nMarch 6th, 2024 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT HOSTS VIRGIN ISLANDS NATIONAL GUARD BRIGADIER GENERAL SALLY PETTY FOR PRESIDENT BIDEN\u2019S STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS\n\nNational Guard Brigadier General Sally Petty is the First Female Assistant Adjutant General of the Virgin Islands National Guard.\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett will be joined by National Guard Brigadier General Sally E. Petty, as her guest to President Biden\u2019s State of the Union Address to Congress on Thursday, March 7th, 2024.\n\nAs the first woman assistant adjutant general of the Virgin Islands National Guard and only the second to rise to the rank of brigadier general in the guard\u2019s 50-year existence, General Petty\u2019s historic milestone is the epitome of what fellow guardsmen and women can achieve. Described as an audacious officer, General Petty exceeds standards and has completed numerous deployments and has received the Bronze Star, Legion of Merit and Joint Meritorious Service Awards.\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett shared, \u201cI am honored that General Petty will join me as my guest at President Biden\u2019s State of the Union address. This past year has been a special year in our Virgin Island National Guard, celebrating 50 years of service to our nation, I was happy to introduce a House Resolution to honor the Virgin Islands National Guard on its 50th anniversary and celebrate the service and sacrifice of our guardsmen and women. Early in the year, I was so proud to visit with our guardsmen and women deployed in Qatar.\n\n\u201cGeneral Petty follows other great women in the Virgin Islands who have served in our military \u2013 Ruby Rouss, one of the first aide-de-camps of General Dwight Eisenhower during World War II, Caroline Fawkes, the first woman to fly the C-23B Sherpa military transport aircraft and Debra Howell, the V.I. National Guard\u2019s former Territorial Adjutant General. General Petty also boasts 18 years as an educator and 15 plus years as a school administrator.\u201d\n\nGeneral Petty shared, \u201cOn behalf of the servicemembers of the Virgin Islands National Guard, it is an honor to receive an invitation from the Honorable Stacey E. Plaskett to join her at President Joseph Biden's State of the Union Address. As we observe Women's History Month 2024, I am humbled to represent our territory as the first female Assistant Adjutant General for the Virgin Islands National Guard. Women continue to make positive strides not only in the military but all aspects of our community, and I applaud them.\u201d\n\nAdjutant General of the Virgin Islands National Guard, Kodjo Knox-Limbacker stated, \u201cIt is such a great honor to have our first female Assistant Adjutant General (ATAG) for the Virgin Islands National Guard attend the State of the Union Address with Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett during Women\u2019s History Month. Brigadier General Sally Petty\u2019s intellectual prowess and leadership as a high school principal and ATAG continues to inspire students and service members to be all they can be in their chosen professions and in our communities. I am very proud of her and extremely pleased that I selected her to serve as my ATAG.\u201d\n\n\u201cTrailblazing women such as General Petty are breaking through the glass ceiling and inspiring future generations in the Virgin Islands. It\u2019s only fitting that during Virgin Islands History Month and Women\u2019s History Month, I have her accompany me as my special guest for the State of the Union address,\u201d said Congresswoman Plaskett.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T20:32:04Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4421", "PLASKETT APPLAUDS HOUSE PASSAGE OF DIASPORALINK LEGISLATION FOR U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS TRANS-ATLANTIC SUBMARINE FIBER OPTIC CABLE", "2024-03-05", "2024", "2024-03", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nMarch 5th, 2024 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT APPLAUDS HOUSE PASSAGE OF DIASPORALINK LEGISLATION FOR U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS TRANS-ATLANTIC SUBMARINE FIBER OPTIC CABLE\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett shared the following statement on the passage of H.R. 3385, the DiasporaLink Act, on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives:\n\n\u201cToday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 3385, the DiasporaLink Act. I am tremendously pleased that this timely legislation received full passage on the House floor. The DiasporaLink Act directs the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to submit to Congress a report on the cost and feasibility of developing a trans-Atlantic submarine fiber optic cable connecting the United States, and the Virgin Islands to Africa. The study will also review the importance of such a cable in the Virgin Islands for American interests in the region. This a significant step to establish a high-speed internet connection to Africa and throughout the Caribbean from American soil, which will enhance America\u2019s national security data and communication interests in the regions. Additionally, this bill would stimulate job opportunities and encourage interconnectedness between the U.S. and the continent of Africa, further establishing the United Stated Virgin Islands as a global telecommunications hub.\n\n\u201cPresently, there is no direct fiber optic link between the U.S. and the continent of Africa. Africa is increasingly an area that presents dynamic economic opportunity for our country as well as national security challenges that must be addressed. U.S. reliance on other foreign and commercial entities to connect to Africa is a compromising position for the United States. The Trans-Atlantic submarine fiber optic cable network\u2019s strategic location makes DiasporaLink a \u201cDigital Safe Harbor\u201d under the U.S. flag. This service, if achieved, will provide African and Caribbean submarine operators and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) a clear channel to U.S. financial and business centers. The DiasporaLink Act, if enacted will provide a strong medium via a feasibility study, which could clear the path for establishing this Digital Safe Harbor in our territory.\n\n\u201cFurthermore, having the hub in the U.S. Virgin Islands is a significant 21stcentury paradigm shift; it allows our islands\u2019 advantages, many of which have been used for the benefit of other world powers (i.e. the VI\u2019s geostrategic location), to be utilized for the benefit of our people. DiasporaLink in the USVI will facilitate our islands as a hub for commerce in the global digital economy and will stimulate high tech job opportunities for Virgin Islanders and attract digital users to the territory.\u201d\n\nWhile Virgin Islanders have long recognized the importance of GlobalCrossing, which some time ago used St. Croix as a point to bury its undersea cable between South and North America, that is a private cable which has been sold several times and is now owned by Lumen. What is not well known is that all cables (undersea or above ground) have a fixed lifespan; the GlobalCrossing cables connected in St Croix are near or past their end of life. Having such a link developed and maintained by the federal government creates a tremendous level of certainty for companies coming to the Virgin Islands to take advantage of such a linkage.\n\n\u201cI would like to thank Stephan Adams, Chief Executive of viNGN, and his team for their tireless efforts in conceptualizing the idea for DiaporaLink and working with my office to support the technical information.\n\n\u201cI would also like to thank Congressman Russ Fulcher (R-Idaho) for working with me to make this bill bipartisan and House Energy & Commerce Committee Ranking Member, Frank Pallone (D-New Jersey) for his leadership on this important committee in Congress.\u201d\n\nThis legislation will now be sent to the Senate floor for a vote. If passed in the Senate, it will be sent to the President to be signed into law.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T20:32:04Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4416", "PLASKETT EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF HUGH PEMBERTON", "2024-03-04", "2024", "2024-03", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nMarch 4th, 2024 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF HUGH PEMBERTON\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement expressing condolences on the passing of Hugh Pemberton of Reef Broadcasting:\n\n\u201cI was very saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. P. He was well-known for his gregarious nature not just as a radio personality, but in his everyday interactions. Mr. P made the Virgin Islands his home and used his resources and influence to better our community in many ways and very often was not afraid to ask controversial questions in a quest for truth.\n\n\u201cI will miss our conversations and send my prayers for comfort and peace to his family, loved ones, and friends.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T20:32:04Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4417", "PLASKETT HOSTS CEREMONY IN CORAL BAY, ST. JOHN TO COMMEMORATE RAM HEAD PLAQUE INSTALLATION", "2024-03-04", "2024", "2024-03", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nMarch 4th, 2024 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT HOSTS CEREMONY IN CORAL BAY, ST. JOHN TO COMMEMORATE RAM HEAD PLAQUE INSTALLATION\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 On Sunday, March 3rd, 2024, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett, with the support of the Virgin Islands National Park hosted a ceremony at Salt Pond in Coral Bay, St. John to recognize the permanent installation of a plaque at the peak of the Ram Head trail to commemorate the 1733 slave rebellion. During the ceremony, Dr. Hadiya Sewer of the St. John Collective provided a keynote, along with remarks from Senator-at-Large, Angel Bolques, Jr. and Congresswoman Plaskett, with the benediction provided by Pastor Kendrick Glasgow, Jr. of the Cruz Bay Seventh-Day Adventist Church. Also, in attendance was a group of students from the Eudora Kean High School\u2019s JROTC program as well as local residents of St. John and visitors.\n\n\u201cUp until now, there was no public acknowledgment of what happened in the 18th century on St. John, and unlike elsewhere on the island, the Ram Head trail contains very little to no signage about the historic significance of the location or the rich history of the people of St. John generally,\u201d shared Congresswoman Plaskett, \u201cThe establishment of the Ram Head plaque represents a proper and meaningful acknowledgement of the historic and pioneering rebellion against slavery that occurred on St. John 115 years before the abolition of slavery in what is now the U.S. Virgin Islands, and 132 years before the Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery everywhere in the United States. And, how fitting that we stand here today at the beginning of Virgin Islands History Month to acknowledge the incredible sacrifice made by our ancestors so that we can live and prosper today.\n\n\u201cRight now, there\u2019s such a drive to wipe out history in our country and without our history and that truth, our children can\u2019t be strong. Even the children whose ancestors may have exacted some of the violence that took place during times of slavery\u2014it\u2019s important for those children to know that they are not that. I\u2019m grateful that we have black, brown, white people who want to acknowledge and be a part of truth\u2014history is truth.\u201d\n\nThe Congresswoman expressed thanks to her colleague, Republican Congressman, Representative Guy Reschenthaler of Pennsylvania\u2019s 14th District, who had visited St. John and learned of the 1733 slave rebellion and expressed that he would support and co-sponsor the bill, as well as the Virgin Islands National Park Deputy Superintendent Scott Simmons and his team for their assistance with the event, Senator Bolques and the office of Senator Marise James, along with Dr. Sewer and Malachi Thomas.\n\nThe ceremony was followed by a 2-mile hike of the Ram Head trail to witness the unveiling of the plaque honoring the collective sacrifice of the enslaved people on St. John during the 1733 rebellion. At the unveiling, there were remarks by Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Service Program Manager Ahmed Toure and a libation and Yoruba prayer offered by Malachi Thomas.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T20:32:04Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4415", "PLASKETT EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF FORMER VI HOUSING AUTHORITY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ROBERT GRAHAM", "2024-02-29", "2024", "2024-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nFebruary 29th, 2024 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF FORMER VI HOUSING AUTHORITY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ROBERT GRAHAM\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement expressing condolences on the passing of former V.I. Housing Authority Executive Director Robert Graham:\n\n\u201cI was saddened to hear of the passing of Director Graham. He served our community at the V.I. Housing Authority (VIHA) over many years. Appointed in 2008 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to lead the Virgin Islands Housing Authority, Mr. Graham left a legacy of transformational work, not just in the Virgin Islands but across states like New Jersey and Connecticut where he was known for leading successful turnarounds of housing authorities.\n\n\u201cMr. Graham believed in changing the stigma of public housing and providing a mechanism to create transformative communities in public affordable housing spaces after our storms. He has left a roadmap for those in his agency and elsewhere on how to utilize setbacks as set-ups for great things!\n\n\u201cI send my prayers for comfort and peace to his family, loved ones, and friends.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T20:21:00Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4412", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES CRITICAL INCREASE IN FEDERAL ASSISTANCE FOR HURRICANE RECOVERY PROJECTS", "2024-02-09", "2024", "2024-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement:\n\n\u201cI am tremendously pleased to announce that President Biden has agreed to raise the federal cost share of all FEMA assistance grants for hurricane recovery in the Virgin Islands from 90 to 95 percent in all cases, including retroactively. In addition, President Biden has also agreed to raise the federal cost share to 98 percent in the case of larger critical infrastructure rebuilding projects approved before September 30, 2024, and completed before 2026.\n\n\u201cAs we know, the Virgin Islands government has been allocated billions of federal dollars for hurricane recovery projects\u2014for our schools, hospitals, water, power, communications, and other critical infrastructure. Until now, those projects would have required the Virgin Islands government to provide 10 percent of the grant in local matching funds (90 percent to be paid with federal funding). President Biden\u2019s declaration has cut that cost share requirement to just 2 percent for critical rebuilding projects approved before September 30, 2024, and completed over the next 2 years, and 5 percent otherwise. This will allow the Virgin Islands more federal financial assistance to push through the most critical projects so that the territory is given the best opportunity to see our hurricane recovery through to completion in a timely fashion.\n\n\u201cI would like to congratulate Governor Bryan and his team for their consistent engagement with the Biden-Harris administration and FEMA. In 2018 when Congress passed the changes to the Stafford Act and it was apparent the Virgin Islands would be receiving exponential funding for the recovery that would require a 10% match, our office and the Mapp administration began the discussion with FEMA to waive that amount. The Bryan administration immediately took up that press for a cost share waiver with FEMA. Governor Bryan\u2019s and his team\u2019s willingness to bifurcate the request to two categories and concentrate a larger waiver on critical infrastructure recovery (where there is the most \u201cskin in the game\u201d) played an important role in securing this important federal cost-share increase.\n\nIn my conversation today with FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, she emphasized three critical factors that contributed to the decision: 1) the ability to use the Insular Areas Act, which allows federal agencies to waive federal cost shares for Insular Areas (which excludes Puerto Rico); 2) The additional analysis provided by the Bryan Administration which showed the tremendous per capita impact of the recent disasters in the Virgin Islands (which is higher than any other area); 3) and finally, the relentless advocacy of my office and the Bryan Administration. I would also like to thank President Biden for his willingness to provide this critical amendment to the FEMA disaster declaration for the Virgin Islands.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T20:21:00Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4411", "OFFICE OF CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT TO HOST CONGRESS ON YOUR CORNER FOR LOCAL CONSTITUENTS", "2024-01-22", "2024", "2024-01", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJanuary 22nd, 2024 340-201-6453\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nOFFICE OF CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT TO HOST CONGRESS ON YOUR CORNER FOR LOCAL CONSTITUENTS\n\nU.S. Virgin Islands \u2013 On Friday, January 26th, 2024, the Office of Congresswoman Plaskett will host a Congress on Your Corner on St. Croix and St. Thomas from 11:00a to 2:00p.\n\n\u201cConstituent service is an integral part of what we do,\u201d said Congresswoman Plaskett. \u201cCongress on Your Corner helps make access to our office and the support we can provide even easier for our constituents, so I encourage everyone who may need assistance or even those of you who would like an opportunity to meet my team to come out and join us!\u201d\n\nDuring Congress on Your Corner, constituents will have the opportunity to talk directly with representatives from Congressman Plaskett\u2019s office about federal matters they may need assistance with. Issues discussed often include Social Security, veteran benefits or medals, passports, immigration issues or small business assistance.\n\nOn St. Croix, the Congress on Your Corner event will be held at the Sunny Isles Amphitheater and on St. Thomas at the Alvaro de Lugo Post Office in Emancipation Garden from 11:00a to 2:00p.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T23:46:48Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4410", "PLASKETT EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS\u2019 FORMER HEALTH MINISTER, CARVIN MALONE", "2024-01-15", "2024", "2024-01", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJanuary 15th, 2024 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS\u2019 FORMER HEALTH MINISTER, CARVIN MALONE\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement expressing condolences on the passing of the British Virgin Islands\u2019 (BVI) former Health and Social Development Minister, Carvin Malone:\n\n\u201cI was very saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Mr. Malone. He was a stalwart in the local BVI community who provided tremendous leadership over numerous decades. Mr. Malone served as the leader of the territory\u2019s Health and Social Development agency during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and left an excellent legacy of commitment, integrity and political savvy, especially with his tenure as the President of the BVI\u2019s Virgin Islands Party for more than 15 years.\n\n\u201cVirgin Islanders on the U.S. side send condolences to our brothers and sisters in the BVI on Mr. Malone\u2019s passing, and I send my prayers for comfort and peace to his loved ones, family and friends.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T23:46:48Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4409", "PLASKETT SHARES INFORMATION ON USDA DISCRIMINATION FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM AND UPCOMING DEADLINE FOR VIRGIN ISLANDS FARMERS", "2024-01-09", "2024", "2024-01", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJanuary 9, 2024 340-201-6453\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT SHARES INFORMATION ON USDA DISCRIMINATION FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM AND UPCOMING DEADLINE FOR VIRGIN ISLANDS FARMERS\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement:\n\n\u201cThe Discrimination Financial Assistance Program (DFAP) is a USDA program, authorized by Congress through the Inflation Reduction Act, designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who may have experienced discrimination in farm lending programs prior to January 1, 2021. USDA is committed to providing financial assistance to those who faced discrimination in USDA farm lending as swiftly and efficiently as possible with the hope that this rebuilds trust with communities and creates a better, stronger, more resilient farm sector. I encourage all Virgin Islands farmers who may have faced discrimination in farm lending programs to apply as soon as possible.\u201d\n\nThe application window for DFAP is open until January 13, 2024, and any impacted producer is invited to apply at the following website: https://22007apply.gov. Applying for this program is free\u2014and free, general help with the application is available to every applicant through the DFAP Call Center. You can reach them via email at info@22007apply.gov or via phone at 1-800-721-0970.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T23:46:48Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 58, "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": "VI", "p2": "2024"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=VI&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 58, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=VI&year=2024", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=VI&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 58, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=VI&year=2024&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=VI&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "VI", "label": "VI", "count": 58, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&year=2024", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=VI&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "2024", "label": "2024", "count": 58, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=VI", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": null, "next_url": null, "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 30.23257525637746, "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"}