{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Republican\" and state = \"TN\" sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/9/blackburn-sues-jack-smith-for-unlawfully-seizing-phone-records", "Blackburn Sues Jack Smith for Unlawfully Seizing Phone Records", "2026-09-30", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) filed a lawsuit against former Special Counsel Jack Smith for unlawfully subpoenaing her cell phone toll records during the Arctic Frost investigation.\n\n\u201cThrough his Arctic Frost witch hunt that targeted conservatives across America and even the President of the United States, Jack Smith perpetrated one of the worst abuses of government power in our nation\u2019s history,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cThis lawsuit is solely about holding Mr. Smith accountable and ensuring that our nation\u2019s justice system can never again be weaponized against the American people. I thank the New Civil Liberties Alliance for their partnership in filing this complaint and for fighting to uphold our cherished constitutional rights.\u201d\n\nThe New Civil Liberties Alliance filed the complaint on behalf of Senator Blackburn in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee. The lawsuit asks the Court to declare Smith\u2019s appointment unlawful under the U.S. Constitution\u2019s Appointments Clause and to hold Smith accountable, in his personal capacity, for his gross abuses of power. Importantly, this lawsuit seeks an award of nominal damages of only one dollar\u2014underscoring the point that Senator Blackburn is solely interested in holding Jack Smith accountable for his weaponization of government.\n\nThe lawsuit comes one day after Smith testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee, which revealed that Arctic Frost obtained sensitive information\u2014including home addresses, bank account numbers, and signatures\u2014on 4,782 Americans who donated to President Trump, including 102 Tennesseans.\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nJack Smith was illegally named Special Counsel in November 2022. Then-President Biden did not nominate Smith, nor did the Senate confirm Smith as either Special Counsel or in any other position. Additionally, no statute authorized Smith\u2019s appointment.\n\nSmith and others in the DOJ, FBI, Special Counsel\u2019s office, and Public Integrity Section agreed to subpoena Senator Blackburn\u2019s cell phone toll records, revealing whom she spoke with, when, and for how long.\n\nSmith also obtained a non-disclosure order from the Court, while withholding from the judge that the subpoena sought the records of a sitting U.S. Senator. That non-disclosure order required the Senator\u2019s cell phone provider to keep the subpoena secret.\n\nSenator Blackburn was not the only target. Smith\u2019s office is alleged to have subpoenaed the toll records of at least twenty Members of Congress \u2014 all Republicans \u2014 and roughly 400 Republican individuals and organizations.\n\nSmith issued the subpoena and non-disclosure order for Senator Blackburn\u2019s records on May 25, 2023, just over a month after she became one of the first sitting senators to endorse President Trump\u2019s 2024 re-election campaign. Senator Blackburn did not learn her records had been seized until October 6, 2025.\n\nRELATED\n\nVIDEO: Blackburn Presses Phone Company Executives on Complicity in Jack Smith\u2019s Witch Hunt Against Conservatives\n\nBlackburn Leads Colleagues in Calling for DOJ Investigation into Jack Smith for Spying on Republican Members of Congress\n\nBlackburn Demands Answers from Cell Phone Carriers Who Allowed Biden FBI to Spy on Members of Congress", 1, "2026-10-01T11:23:28Z", "2026-10-01T11:25:15Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/09/30/hagerty-advocates-for-the-ratepayer-protection-act/", "Hagerty Advocates for the Ratepayer Protection Act", "2026-09-30", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "The bill passed the House of Representatives by an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 417-3\n\nWASHINGTON\u2014Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) spoke on the Senate floor, imploring his colleagues to vote in favor of the Ratepayer Protection Act. The legislation is aimed at protecting consumers from taking on the increased energy costs associated with data centers and holding data center companies accountable for responsible investment.\n\n*Click the photo above or click here to watch*\n\nRemarks as prepared for delivery:\n\n\u201cAmerica is undergoing technological advancement at unprecedented speed. As we push new frontiers in this era of superintelligence, innovation can have a tremendously positive impact on our society and our nation\u2019s competitiveness.\n\nAt the same time, we find ourselves neck-and-neck with adversaries racing to harness this technology for their own purposes. It\u2019s crucial that we keep up the pace, particularly regarding the development of large language models and computing power heretofore unseen. Our objective is clear: the United States must remain at the leading edge.\n\nTo do so, we need more energy.\n\nConversations are taking place across the United States about how we will meet the increased energy demands to power superintelligence. My overarching concern is that we do so responsibly and with local community needs in mind. Companies at the frontier of this emerging technology have the resources to pay for the infrastructure and costs associated to run these facilities. Importantly, the costs should not be borne by American families and small businesses.\n\nMy colleague from Ohio has worked incredibly hard to get this bill across the finish line and deliver basic protections for the American people. The public is overwhelmingly in favor of the protections it would provide. Many states have already embraced it, including my home state of Tennessee.\n\nTennessee adopted President Trump\u2019s Ratepayer Protection Pledge while preserving the ability of local communities to make decisions about data center development. The communities that have chosen to welcome innovation have seen incredibly positive impacts: more jobs; new investment; and an increase in their tax base that can allow a range of options from lower property taxes to greater investment in local public resources. Importantly, we\u2019re doing so while ensuring that the massive energy demands of data centers aren\u2019t passed along to Tennessee families and small businesses.\n\nWhat is the only thing standing in the way of enacting these protections?\n\nMy colleagues on the other side of the aisle.\n\nIn the House, the Ratepayer Protection Pledge passed on an overwhelming bipartisan basis with a vote of 417-3. You almost never see this level of consensus in Washington. And yet, last week, Senate Democrats blocked it from passage right here on the Senate floor. Unbelievable.\n\nInstead of comprehensive measures that put the decision-making power in the hands of state and local communities, my colleagues across the aisle want Washington to decide, making sweeping decisions for our nation without input from the towns and cities it would directly impact.\n\nI cannot stress this enough: removing local choice and imposing blanket data center moratoriums are not the answer to responsible innovation. In fact, they are precisely what will kill innovation and put America underwater in the technological race against our adversaries. When it comes to investing in this new frontier, communities should be in the driver\u2019s seat. Localities should be able to decide when, where, and whether they should permit these facilities\u2014especially when they have so much to gain from the investment.\n\nWe have seen a massive amount of misinformation circulating about data centers\u2014their costs, their energy consumption, their water usage, and their noise levels. The truth is we can find solutions to the concerns of Tennesseans and Americans while putting the United States in the best possible position to succeed.\n\nWe need to speak out against these false claims, put a stop to the fearmongering that is jeopardizing America\u2019s opportunity to lead in a critical area for our economy and national security, and clearly communicate the advantages that communities can have when they embrace American energy, and American technological ingenuity, all while protecting\u2014and even bettering\u2014the lives of Americans. It\u2019s time to pass the Ratepayer Protection Act.\n\nBut here we are in an election season. Fearmongering has taken precedence over responsible and thoughtful action. False claims abound while America\u2019s technology leadership hangs in the balance. We should move responsibly, protect American communities, and support our nation\u2019s economic and national security. The House of Representatives seized the opportunity. It\u2019s time for the Senate to set partisan politics aside and pass the Rate Payer Protection Act.\u201d", 1, "2026-10-01T11:23:28Z", "2026-10-01T11:25:15Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/09/28/icymi-hagerty-joinssunday-morning-futures-on-fox-news-channel-to-discuss-trump-gop-accomplishments/", "ICYMI\u2014Hagerty JoinsSunday Morning Futures\u00a0on Fox News Channel to Discuss Trump, GOP Accomplishments", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014On Sunday, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking committees, joined Sunday Morning Futures on Fox News Channel to discuss the radical policies of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), President Donald Trump\u2019s agenda, and the accomplishments of the GOP.\n\n*Click the photo above or here to watch*\n\nPartial Transcript\n\nHagerty on the DSA\u2019s radical agenda: I think we need to listen to what the Democrats are saying. You think about [Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY-14)], [Abdul El-Sayed], [Sen. Bernie Sanders (D-VT)], even what Mamdani is doing with socialist, government-run grocery stores. We need to make it very clear that their answer [is] basically more government control. You think about the welfare state that they want to see\u2026 collapse the borders, more fentanyl into the country, more terrorism, more crime, defund the Pentagon. Every direction they want to turn weakens America. We need to be emphasizing exactly what [President Donald Trump] has done these past two years and where we\u2019re headed\u2026 We are seeing economic strength coming through. We are seeing policies that are making a real difference because we have actually cut taxes. We are deregulating. The Biden administration would\u2019ve added $4 trillion more worth of compliance costs. We are taking them away. My Freedom to Build Act could take up to $100,000 off the cost of a new home, again, cutting regulatory and permitting costs. So, we need to convey those messages; we need to convey a positive economic message. And the fact is that the world stands stronger with a strong America. The Republicans have the answers for this. We are putting forward policies to do it. The Democrats\u2019 view is \u201clet\u2019s shut down the government.\u201d That\u2019s all they\u2019ve delivered the past two years\u2014 the two longest government shutdowns in history. We even had a permitting reform package that we were trying to pass last week. They walked away from it. They do not want to see the economy do well; they want to control it.\n\nHagerty on the GOP\u2019s path to maintain the majority: [President Trump] is our best communicator. But you\u2019re going to see the world respecting us again too. And I think the visit by [Chinese President Xi Jinping] underscores this. That would not have happened under [former President Joe Biden]\u2026 We are back in a position of strength. [Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent] did a great job of articulating how we\u2019re dealing with Iran. We will deal with that. And again, the world needs a strong America. You and I both know this. We saw President Trump deliver this in his first term and we served in his administration. We just need to come back and make these points more and more clearly.\n\nHagerty on diesel prices and affordability: I think [Republicans] can definitely strengthen [their messaging]. I think there has been a lot of focus on the cost of gas and diesel fuel. It\u2019s understandable. As Secretary Bessent said, I think that gets resolved. But if you think about the Democrat\u2019s solution to this, an absolute war on domestic energy\u2014they want to outlaw diesel fuel, they don\u2019t want to lower the cost of it. You think about the measures that [Republicans] can take, particularly on the deregulatory front. There is so much more we can do and that we will do. We need to convey this message clearly and again, contrast what the Democrats are standing for right now, which I think is a very sad story for America. And you don\u2019t have to look very far back to what happened under Joe Biden to realize how chaotic it could possibly be again.", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-david-kustoff-co-leads-bipartisan-motion-picture-television-and", "Congressman David Kustoff Co-Leads Bipartisan Motion Picture, Television, and Entertainment Revitalization Act", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "David Kustoff", "K000392", "kustoff.house.gov", "kustoff", "https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "September 25, 2026\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN-08) helped lead the introduction of H.R.10582, the bipartisan Motion Picture, Television, and Entertainment Revitalization Act. The bill would establish a federal tax credit for qualified film and television productions, with additional incentives for productions in qualifying rural communities and disaster areas.\n\n\u201cFilm and television production supports workers and small businesses across the country, including in Tennessee,\u201d said Congressman David Kustoff. \u201cWhen productions are made in the United States, that work reaches far beyond the set. It supports the crews, local contractors, restaurants, hotels, and small businesses that bring a project to life. This bipartisan bill will help Americans compete for those jobs and keep more of that economic activity here at home.\u201d\n\nThe Motion Picture, Television, and Entertainment Revitalization Act would:\n\nEstablish a 20 percent federal tax credit for qualified compensation paid or incurred for qualifying services performed in the United States in connection with film and television productions. The credit rate could increase by five percentage points under specified circumstances, subject to a 30 percent cap.\n\nFor a film, television pilot, or television season to qualify for the credit they must generally have total costs exceeding $1 million and at least 75 percent of its principal-photography days in the United States.\n\nEncourage more production activity throughout the United States:\n\nProducers that increase their domestic production activity relative to their prior foreign production activity could receive an additional five-percentage-point credit.\n\nProducers that meet substantial production and payroll thresholds in at least 10 states could receive an additional five-percentage-point credit.\n\nIncrease the credit by five percentage points for productions that conduct at least 30 percent of their principal photography days in a rural qualified opportunity zone or eligible disaster area.\n\nIncrease the credit by five percentage points for productions completed by independent producers.\n\nExtend the credit to qualifying traditional post-production and visual effects projects when at least 75 percent of the associated costs are incurred in the United States.\n\nThese projects could receive an additional five-percentage-point credit if completed by an independent producer or performed in a qualifying rural opportunity zone or disaster area.\n\nEligible labor costs would include work performed in the United States during pre-production, production, and post-production. Profit-sharing and residual payments would not qualify. Traditional post-production work would include editing, sound editing, scoring, music editing, and dubbing.\n\nThe federal credit would supplement, rather than replace, existing state production incentives.\n\nCongressman Kustoff introduced the legislation alongside Reps. Nathaniel Moran (R-TX-01), Mike Carey (R-OH-15), Brian Jack (R-GA-03), Laura Friedman (D-CA-30), Linda S\u00e1nchez (D-CA-38), Judy Chu (D-CA-28), and Tom Suozzi (D-NY-03). Senators Tim Scott (R-SC) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) introduced companion legislation in the United States Senate.\n\nBackground\n\nAccording to the Motion Picture Association, the American film and television industry supported 2.74 million jobs and paid $242 billion in wages in 2022. By 2024, those figures had declined to 2.01 million jobs and $202 billion in wages.\n\nTennessee established its Film/TV Incentive Fund in 2006 and adopted its current grant formula of up to 25 percent in 2012. In 2021, the state authorized a tax credit for qualified production payroll expenses. H.R.10582 would build on these programs with a federal incentive, helping Tennessee compete with countries that offer national production incentives.\n\nThe bill would apply to qualifying feature films, television pilots, and television seasons. News programs, live sporting events, talk shows, daytime dramas, social media content, advertising campaigns, and corporate productions would not qualify.\n\nThe credit would be available for eligible productions beginning in taxable years after December 31, 2026.\n\nClick here to read the bill text.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-27T10:23:37Z", "2026-09-27T10:25:08Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/9/senate-passes-blackburn-kaine-resolution-designating-october-as-national-country-music-month", "Senate Passes Blackburn, Kaine Resolution Designating October as \u201cNational Country Music Month\u201d", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "NASHVILLE, Tenn. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) released the following statements after their resolution designating October as \u201cNational Country Music Month\u201d passed the Senate. This resolution honors the contributions of country music to the story and history of the U.S. and encourages the American people to observe \u201cNational Country Music Month\u201d with appropriate ceremonies and activities.\n\n\u201cTennessee is the heart of country music, from its birthplace in Bristol to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cThis National Country Music Month, we honor the legendary Dolly Parton, whose iconic voice, songwriting, and showmanship inspired generations of performers and fans. Country music has always captured the spirit of our nation\u2014our faith, our families, and our freedoms\u2014and it is my honor to lead this resolution recognizing this incredible legacy.\u201d\n\n\u201cMusic has always been a big part of my life, from listening to and playing songs with my family to jamming with friends,\u201d said Senator Kaine. \u201cBristol is the birthplace of country music, so I\u2019m glad to join Senator Blackburn in introducing this resolution to recognize October as National Country Music Month and celebrate this incredible genre and its contributions to our nation\u2019s history and culture.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-david-kustoffs-social-security-identity-theft-bill-advances-senate", "Congressman David Kustoff\u2019s Social Security Identity Theft Bill Advances in Senate, Now Heads to President Trump's Desk", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "David Kustoff", "K000392", "kustoff.house.gov", "kustoff", "https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN-08) announced the United States Senate unanimously passed H.R. 5345, the Improving Social Security\u2019s Service to Victims of Identity Theft Act, on September 17, 2026. The bill would provide victims of identity theft involving their Social Security numbers with a single point of contact at the Social Security Administration throughout the resolution of their case. It now heads to President Donald Trump\u2019s desk for his signature.\n\n\u201cVictims of identity theft deserve clear, consistent support rather than getting lost in a maze of federal bureaucracy,\u201d said Congressman David Kustoff. \u201cThe Senate\u2019s passage of my bill brings us one step closer to cutting red tape and ensuring victims receive timely support from the Social Security Administration. I appreciate the bipartisan support this legislation received in both chambers and look forward to President Trump signing it into law.\u201d\n\nAccording to the Identity Theft Resource Center\u2019s 2025 Annual Data Breach Report, the United States experienced a record 3,322 data compromises in 2025. Of those, 2,236 involved Social Security numbers. Federal Trade Commission identity-theft reports rose to 1.36 million in 2025, a 19.6 percent increase from 2024.\n\nUnder H.R. 5345, trained employees serving as the point of contact would coordinate with other SSA offices, maintain continuity of case records, and remain accountable until each case is resolved. The legislation would also apply when a Social Security card is lost in the mail.\n\nBackground:\n\nCongressman Kustoff introduced H.R. 5345 on Sept. 15, 2025. It passed the House Committee on Ways and Means 39\u20131 and passed out of the House of Representatives by unanimous consent on Dec. 1, 2025.\n\nThe bill builds on Kustoff\u2019s legislative record of combating fraud and streamlining federal bureaucracy:\n\n- Introduced the bipartisan Recovery of Stolen Checks Act (H.R. 1155) and DO NOT Call Act (H.R. 6449) to support fraud victims.\n\n- Introduced the Child Care Tax Benefit Outreach and Assistance Act (H.R. 10512) to create an IRS liaison assisting employers with child care tax benefits.\n\nClick here to read the bill text.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/9/senate-unanimously-passes-blackburn-s-bipartisan-bill-to-prevent-romance-scams", "Senate Unanimously Passes Blackburn\u2019s Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Romance Scams", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 The U.S. Senate unanimously passed Senator Marsha Blackburn\u2019s (R-Tenn.) Romance Scam Prevention Act, which would require dating apps and services to issue fraud ban notifications to users who have interacted with a person removed from the app, sending it to President Trump\u2019s desk.\n\nIn recent years, digital romance scams have become more common as scammers target recently widowed or divorced senior citizens. In 2023, Tennesseans over the age of 60 lost $43 million due to scams targeting the elderly, marking an 18% increase from the losses reported in 2022. Across the country, the Federal Trade Commission reported that romance scams resulted in victims losing $1.3 billion in 2022 alone.\n\nSenator John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) co-sponsored this legislation. Representative David Valadao (R-Calif.) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nAs Americans continue to go online to find meaningful relationships, scammers are following suit. These scams accelerated during the COVID pandemic when more senior citizens turned to dating sites for companionship while they were isolated from their loved ones.\n\nWhen an online dating service provider becomes aware of a user committing fraudulent activity, such as illegally obtaining money, the online dating service provider immediately deactivates the fraudulent user's account.\n\nHowever, individuals who meet online often take their conversations to other communication platforms, so even when a fraudulent account is removed, an individual might not know they are still communicating with someone who has been removed from the dating platform.\n\nThe Romance Scam Prevention Act would fill this communication gap by requiring dating app platforms to send a fraud ban notification to anyone who has communicated with someone with a fraudulent account.\n\nClick here for bill text.\n\nClick here to read more about the red flag indicators of romance scams and how to avoid becoming a victim of a romance scam.\n\nRELATED", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-chuck-fleischmann-applauds-25-million-for-tennessee-wesleyan-university-s-health-science-stem-education", "Congressman Chuck Fleischmann Applauds $2.5 Million for Tennessee Wesleyan University\u2019s Health Science, STEM Education", "2026-09-23", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Charles J. \"Chuck\" Fleischmann", "F000459", "fleischmann.house.gov", "fleischmann", "https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03) is proud to announce that he has secured $2,500,000 in federal funding for Tennessee Wesleyan University to enhance its Health Science and STEM education programs. The funding will support major renovations, and equipment upgrades at the university\u2019s Fisher Hall of Science in Athens, Tennessee.\n\n\u201cThis $2.5 million investment is about building a brighter future for East Tennessee,\u201d said Congressman Fleischmann. \u201cModernizing Fisher Hall of Science empowers our students, including many from first-generation and underserved backgrounds, to excel and launch successful careers right here at home. These graduates are essential to meeting the workforce needs in advanced manufacturing, nuclear technologies, and artificial intelligence, vital to our region\u2019s economic growth. This is a win for our students and for our region\u2019s future.\u201d\n\nThe project will modernize the 30,000-square-foot Fisher Hall of Science, which has not been significantly updated since its completion in 1968. Planned improvements include new flooring, laboratory countertops, HVAC system upgrades, network cabling, and advanced scientific equipment. The initiative will also provide faculty training and implement systems to track student progress from enrollment through job placement.\n\nWith these enhancements, Tennessee Wesleyan University aims to increase student enrollment and research participation in biology, chemistry, and environmental science, while also improving student outcomes such as graduation rates and job placements. The upgrades will particularly benefit first-generation and low-income students who rely on the university\u2019s science programs, as well as regional employers seeking a pipeline of highly skilled graduates.", 1, "2026-09-24T09:44:48Z", "2026-09-24T09:45:52Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/09/23/hagerty-calls-for-heightened-safety-standards-on-public-transit/", "Hagerty Calls for Heightened Safety Standards on Public Transit", "2026-09-23", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "Crime on public transit wastes taxpayer dollars and puts passengers in danger\n\nWASHINGTON\u2014Today, Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) introduced the Safe Transit Act, a bill aimed at penalizing the oversight of crime and misconduct on public transit.\n\nLax public transit safety measures waste hundreds of millions in taxpayer dollars each year and pose a serious threat to transit users. Yet some of the nation\u2019s most robust and frequently used transit systems \u2014 especially those in blue states \u2014 do not have adequate security protocols in place to keep their passengers safe.\n\nEvery city that receives federal funding for transit should have to prove that it is protecting its passengers and combatting crime. The Safe Transit Act incentivizes public transit systems to adopt more robust crime prevention measures and creates a safety performance benchmark, ensuring each system is held to the same standard. Most importantly, the bill withholds federal funds from transit systems that fail to meet the proposed benchmarks and safety protocols.\n\n\u201cToo many Democrat-led cities and states take taxpayer dollars while letting crime run rampant on public transit. This must end,\u201d said Hagerty. \u201cMy legislation would direct federal funding to communities that actually protect passengers and promote public safety. It\u2019s time to put Americans\u2019 safety first.\u201d\n\n\u201cUnder President Trump\u2019s leadership, we\u2019ve used every tool in our toolbox to make transit systems safer, cleaner, and more family-friendly. Our work has slashed fare evasion, increased law enforcement patrols, and reduced crime \u2014 including right here in our nation\u2019s capital. But for the stubborn states, cities, and systems that refuse to meet basic safety standards, we need more flexibility to hold them accountable,\u201d said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. \u201cI want to thank Senator Hagerty for leading this critical legislation and ensuring hardworking-taxpayer dollars deliver transit systems that Americans can be proud of.\u201d\n\nThe Safe Transit Act would:\n\nAllow the Department to withhold 100 percent of federal funds to cities and local governments that fail to criminalize fare evasion, ban violent offenders from transit systems, or allow personal recognizance and cash-free release for transit crimes.\n\nRequire transit agencies in urban areas to invest at least 3 percent of federal formula funding into safety and crime prevention initiatives, including lighting improvements, security cameras, emergency call boxes, and protective barriers for bus drivers.\n\nAuthorize the Department to withhold up to 50 percent of federal transit funding from cities with crime rates significantly higher than the national transit average.\n\nEstablish binding nationwide performance standards for physical turnstiles, gates, and fare collection infrastructure to stop fare jumpers.\n\nRequire all new federally funded buses and rail vehicles to be equipped with inward- and outward-facing security cameras and event recorders.\n\nThe full text of the bill can be found here.", 1, "2026-09-24T09:44:48Z", "2026-09-24T09:45:52Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-hosts-sixth-annual-military-academy-day", "Harshbarger Hosts Sixth Annual Military Academy Day", "2026-09-21", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Kingsport, TN \u2014 Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) welcomed more than 100 students, parents, and educators to the Kingsport Center for Higher Education on Saturday for her sixth annual Military Academy Day. The event offered prospective cadets across Tennessee's First District a chance to hear directly from our nation's premier service academies and explore a path to a military education.\n\n\u201cThis annual event is about the next generation of Americans who are willing to raise their hand and serve,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \u201cEvery student who walked through that door is thinking seriously about a life spent serving this country, and it's my job to make sure they don't have to figure out how to get there on their own. East Tennessee produces exactly the kind of grit and character our service academies are looking for, and my office will keep doing everything we can to help these young men and women get there.\u201d\n\nThe program opened with remarks from Harshbarger, followed by a presentation on the application process from Col. Scott Gerblick. Representatives from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and East Tennessee State University's Army ROTC program then held academy-specific sessions, giving students the chance to put their questions directly to cadets, officers, and admissions staff.\n\nPresenters included West Point cadet Skyler Floodquist, a junior from Sevier County; Naval Academy Blue and Gold Officer Kristen Daniel; Air Force Academy admissions advisor 2nd Lt. Isabelle Flasch; Coast Guard Academy admissions partner Richard Hawkins; and East Tennessee State University JROTC representatives Scott Curtis and Sgt. 1st Class Josh Crabtree.\n\nThroughout the morning, presenters encouraged students to research each academy carefully, tailor every application individually, and build a backup plan through options such as JROTC or a year of college before seeking an appointment.\n\nStudents seeking a congressional nomination to a service academy must apply through Harshbarger's office by October 31, 2026, with in-person interviews scheduled for November 19, 2026. An independent panel reviews each application before making its recommendations to the office.\n\nCLICK HERE to learn more about the application process.\n\nCLICK HERE to access the application.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-22T09:42:49Z", "2026-09-22T09:44:35Z"], ["https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-david-kustoff-introduces-legislation-strengthen-employer-supported", "Congressman David Kustoff Introduces Legislation to Strengthen Employer-Supported Child Care for Working Families", "2026-09-21", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "David Kustoff", "K000392", "kustoff.house.gov", "kustoff", "https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN-08) introduced H.R. 10512, the Child Care Tax Benefit Outreach and Assistance Act, the House companion to bipartisan legislation introduced by Senators Dan Sullivan (R-AK) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH). The bill would help employers navigate and access federal tax benefits that support child care for working families. Congressman Kustoff has led congressional efforts to strengthen the Section 45F employer-provided child care tax credit, including provisions enacted through the One Big Beautiful Bill.\n\n\u201cReliable child care supports working families and helps West Tennessee businesses recruit and retain employees,\u201d said Congressman David Kustoff. \u201cI worked to deliver the first major expansion of the employer-provided child care tax credit in more than two decades through the One Big Beautiful Bill. This bipartisan, budget-neutral legislation builds upon that work by giving businesses a dedicated resource to take advantage of these benefits and connect their employees with available options.\u201d\n\nA 2022 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report found that relatively few businesses claimed the Section 45F employer-provided child care tax credit. The GAO cited limited awareness of the credit and the complexity of establishing and administering child care benefits as barriers to wider use.\n\nThe Child Care Tax Benefit Outreach and Assistance Act would establish a Business Child Care Liaison within the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to help address these barriers. The liaison would educate businesses about the Section 45F credit and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, which allow employees to set aside pretax income for eligible care expenses. The liaison would also help employers utilize these benefits and strengthen coordination among the IRS, businesses, and the child care sector.\n\nBackground:\n\nIn May 2025, Congressman Kustoff introduced H.R. 3155, the Child Care for American Families Act, to strengthen the Section 45F employer-provided child care tax credit and make it more useful for employers, particularly small businesses.\n\nKey provisions from Congressman Kustoff\u2019s legislation were included in H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill, which President Donald Trump signed into law on July 4, 2025.\n\nThrough the One Big Beautiful Bill, Congressman Kustoff secured the following improvements to the Section 45F credit:\n\nFor most employers, the credit increased from 25 percent to 40 percent of qualified child care expenditures, and the annual cap increased from $150,000 to $500,000;\n\nEligible small businesses can receive a 50 percent credit with an annual cap of $600,000; and\n\nEmployers may partner with outside organizations or other businesses to provide child care.\n\nClick here to read the bill text.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-22T09:42:49Z", "2026-09-22T09:44:35Z"], ["https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/immediate-release-doge-hearing-achieves-results", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: DOGE Hearing Achieves Results", "2026-09-18", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Tim Burchett", "B001309", "burchett.house.gov", "burchett", "https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. (09/18/2026): As a result of the DOGE hearing, \u201cFixing Fraud and Failure in Federally Funded Homelessness Services,\u201d Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has resigned from the Los Angeles Homeless Service Authority (LAHSA) Commission, and the Department of Justice has charged multiple individuals associated with organizations that contracted with LAHSA.\n\nThis hearing highlighted serious concerns about fraud, mismanagement, and accountability within Los Angeles\u2019 homelessness system. More than $1 billion in federal taxpayer dollars have been distributed to LAHSA, yet it is largely unaccounted for. What was found was free drug paraphernalia being widely distributed.\n\nLAHSA has now ceased serving as the distributor of homelessness funding in Los Angeles, but the investigation is not over. Mayor Bass\u2019s cowardly resignation will not stop the committee from issuing subpoenas and demanding answers. The American people deserve to know how their tax dollars were spent, who benefited, and who will be held accountable.\n\n\u201cThe DOGE Subcommittee is tasked with rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse, and that is exactly what we have done,\u201d said Rep. Tim Burchett. \u201cThis is just one of many examples of how Republicans and the Trump Administration are committing to bringing transparency to government.\u201d\n\nTo view the entire DOGE hearing, click HERE :\n\n###\n\nFor questions and media inquiries, please contact Will Garrett, Communications Director for Congressman Burchett", 1, "2026-09-19T09:11:33Z", "2026-09-19T09:12:45Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/two-harshbarger-bills-advance-through-energy-and-commerce-committee-0", "Two Harshbarger Bills Advance Through Energy and Commerce Committee", "2026-09-18", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) released the following statements after the House Energy and Commerce Committee advanced two of her bills at this week\u2019s full committee markup. Members passed the Automotive National and Economic Security Act of 2026 and the Mitigating Automated Internet Networks for (MAIN) Event Ticketing Act, sending both bills to the full House for consideration.\n\nAutomotive National and Economic Security Act of 2026:\n\n\"China has a playbook: control manufacturing and hold the world hostage. This week's vote brings us one step closer to giving Washington the facts we need to counter their strategy,\" said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \"We\u2019ve watched Beijing run this same play on critical minerals and shipbuilding, and now they're setting their sights on the U.S. automotive industry. As vehicles become more connected and software-driven, that's not just an economic threat, it's a national security threat and a risk to the data of every American behind the wheel. I want to thank Chairman Guthrie and my colleague Congresswoman Dingell for their partnership on this bipartisan bill, and I'll keep pushing to get it signed into law.\"\n\nCLICK HERE to learn more about the Automotive National and Economic Security Act of 2026.\n\nMAIN Event Ticketing Act:\n\n\"This vote brings us one step closer to shutting down the ticket bots that have turned buying a ticket to your favorite show into an uphill battle,\" said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \"Americans deserve a fair shot at the tickets they've saved up for, not a marketplace rigged by scalper bots and shady resellers. This bill strengthens the Better Online Ticket Sales Act with real cybersecurity safeguards and enforcement tools so the FTC can hold bad actors accountable. I'm grateful for my colleague Congressman Carter's partnership on this bill, and I look forward to seeing it head to the House Floor.\"\n\nCLICK HERE to learn more about the MAIN Event Ticketing Act.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-19T09:11:33Z", "2026-09-19T09:12:45Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/09/18/hagerty-colleagues-lead-passage-of-resolution-honoring-the-life-and-legacy-of-dolly-parton/", "Hagerty, Colleagues Lead Passage of Resolution Honoring the Life and Legacy of Dolly Parton", "2026-09-18", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "Parton was a lifelong Tennessean and an internationally beloved entertainer and philanthropist\n\nWASHINGTON\u2014United States Senators Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) led passage of a resolution honoring the life and legacy of country music star Dolly Parton.\n\nRepresentative Diana Harshbarger (R-TN-01) introduced a companion resolution in the United States House of Representatives.\n\nBorn in Locust Ridge, Tenn., Parton began her nearly 70-year musical career at age 10 and made her Grand Ole Opry debut at age 13. Over the next six decades, she wrote nearly 3,000 songs and sold more than 100 million records worldwide, including timeless classics such as \u201cJolene,\u201d \u201cI Will Always Love You,\u201d and \u201c9 to 5.\u201d\n\nParton cemented her status as one of the most successful female artists of all time. She received 32 prestigious entertainment awards and was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, Songwriters Hall of Fame, Country Music Hall of Fame, and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.\n\nBeyond music, Parton dedicated much of her life to bettering her community, particularly in East Tennessee. In 1988, she founded the Dollywood Foundation, an organization committed to providing East Tennessee students with resources to further their education.\n\nParton went on to establish the Imagination Library, a charitable program that has provided over 332 million free books to children across the globe. She also raised more than $12 million for those affected by deadly wildfires in the Great Smoky Mountains in 2016.\n\nIn addition to her philanthropic work, Parton was a successful businesswoman. In 1986, she opened Dollywood, a popular theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., which has since become a major East Tennessee economic driver and international tourist destination.\n\nFor her final business endeavor, Parton took inspiration from her years traveling on tour buses to establish Dolly\u2019s Tennessean Travel Stop in Cornersville, Tenn., in June 2026.\n\nParton passed away on Aug. 25 at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, Tenn., surrounded by family and loved ones following a brief battle with cancer.\n\n\u201cDolly is truly a Tennessee legend,\u201d said Hagerty. \u201cFrom her humble beginnings in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains to worldwide fame, Dolly exemplified the American Dream. Whether she was performing on stages across the globe, creating opportunities for families to make memories in Dollywood, or fostering a love of reading through her Imagination Library, Dolly lived a life dedicated to encouraging others to dream just as boldly as she did. She never forgot where she came from and left an indelible cultural and economic impact on our state. She will be very dearly missed, and I\u2019m happy to help lead this effort in the Senate.\u201d\n\n\u201cDolly Parton was a Tennessee treasure who lived out the Volunteer Spirit, loved our nation, and opened doors of opportunity for countless people,\u201d said Blackburn. \u201cWhile there are no words to fully express the sorrow all Tennesseans feel in her loss, I hope this resolution plays at least a small part in ensuring that her legacy is never forgotten, and I am honored to lead it in the Senate.\u201d\n\n\u201cDolly Parton was a legend, an icon, and an inspiration. Las Vegans and visitors enjoyed her shows for close to half a century, and books from her Imagination Library line the bookshelves of countless Nevada children,\u201d said Cortez Masto. \u201cToday, we stand together to honor her contributions to American music, her lifetime of generosity and service, and her embrace of all people.\u201d\n\nA copy of the resolution can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-19T09:11:33Z", "2026-09-19T09:12:45Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/9/blackburn-colleagues-lead-passage-of-resolution-honoring-the-life-and-legacy-of-dolly-parton", "Blackburn, Colleagues Lead Passage of Resolution Honoring the Life and Legacy of Dolly Parton", "2026-09-18", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) led passage of a resolution to honor the life and legacy of country music legend Dolly Parton, whose extraordinary contributions to music, philanthropy, literacy, education, health, conservation, and culture enriched the lives of countless Americans.\n\nRepresentative Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.) introduced a companion resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives.\n\n\u201cDolly Parton was a Tennessee treasure who lived out the Volunteer Spirit, loved our nation, and opened doors of opportunity for countless people,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cWhile there are no words to fully express the sorrow all Tennesseans feel in her loss, I hope this resolution plays at least a small part in ensuring that her legacy is never forgotten, and I am honored to lead it in the Senate.\u201d\n\n\u201cDolly is truly a Tennessee legend,\u201d said Senator Hagerty. \u201cFrom her humble beginnings in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains to worldwide fame, Dolly exemplified the American Dream. Whether she was performing on stages across the globe, creating opportunities for families to make memories in Dollywood, or fostering a love of reading through her Imagination Library, Dolly lived a life dedicated to encouraging others to dream just as boldly as she did. She never forgot where she came from and left an indelible cultural and economic impact on our state. She will be very dearly missed.\u201d\n\n\u201cDolly Parton was a legend, an icon, and an inspiration. Las Vegans and visitors enjoyed her shows for close to half a century, and books from her Imagination Library line the bookshelves of countless Nevada children,\u201d said Senator Cortez Masto. \u201cToday, we stand together to honor her contributions to American music, her lifetime of generosity and service, and her embrace of all people.\u201d\n\n\u201cI'm grateful to Senator Blackburn for leading this resolution in the Senate so that Dolly's story, a woman whose humble beginnings in a two-room cabin in Sevier County taught her to hold onto her faith, her family, and her home, gets the full recognition of Congress,\u201d said Representative Harshbarger. \u201cShe spent her whole life giving back to the place that raised her, and now it's our turn to make sure she's remembered the way she deserves.\u201d\n\nThis legislation is also co-sponsored by U.S. Senators John Kennedy (R-La.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Martin Heinrich (D-Nev.), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.).\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nDolly Parton built an extraordinary career in Nashville as a gifted performer and songwriter, yet she never forgot her East Tennessee roots or her commitment to giving back.\n\nIn 1986 she opened Dollywood in the Great Smoky Mountains, creating jobs and boosting the local economy. Soon after, she launched the Dollywood Foundation to combat high school dropout rates in Sevier County; it later grew into Dolly Parton\u2019s Imagination Library, delivering free books to millions of children across Tennessee, the United States, and the world.\n\nA true trailblazer, Dolly Parton transformed country music while her lifelong spirit of service and love for Tennessee have uplifted generations and left a lasting mark far beyond the stage.", 1, "2026-09-21T10:25:24Z", "2026-09-21T10:26:54Z"], ["https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-tim-burchett-drops-two-bills-address-affordability", "Rep. Tim Burchett Drops Two Bills to Address Affordability", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Tim Burchett", "B001309", "burchett.house.gov", "burchett", "https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.-- Tennessee Congressman Tim Burchett filed two bills to address the rising price of diesel fuel in the United States, which would make the lives of ALL Americans more affordable.\n\nDiesel fuel powers the trucks, farm equipment, and machinery that keep our economy moving, meaning higher fuel costs are ultimately passed on to consumers through higher prices for groceries, goods, and services. By addressing diesel prices, these bills will provide relief to American families and businesses.\n\n\u201cDiesel export controls drive down prices while also helping Americans keep more money in their pockets,\u201d said Rep. Burchett. \u201cRefiners typically make a profit of around $15 per barrel, or roughly 35 cents per gallon. Instead, refiners are choosing to sell their diesel for higher prices in Europe. Shipping American diesel overseas reduces domestic supply drives up prices at home. Today, refiners are profiting $117 per barrel, or $2.78 per gallon. That is a nearly 800% increase. American companies should prioritize American consumers and keep American diesel in America.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/9/president-trump-signs-blackburn-s-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-prison-staff-from-sexual-abuse-by-inmates", "President Trump Signs Blackburn\u2019s Bipartisan Bill to Protect Prison Staff from Sexual Abuse by Inmates", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after President Donald Trump signed her bipartisan legislation, the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act, into law. This legislation will help address the increasingly pervasive sexual assault and harassment of Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) employees by inmates.\n\n\u201cNo law enforcement officer should have to fear for their safety when they show up to work,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cI am pleased the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act\u2014which will help us end the appalling sexual abuse of prison staff by inmates\u2014has been signed into law by President Trump.\u201d\n\nThis legislation is also co-sponsored by Senator Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.). Representative Laurel Lee (R-Fla.) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nAccording to a February 2023 report by the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (DOJ OIG), a staggering 40% of 7,000 surveyed BOP staff stated they had been sexually harassed or sexually assaulted by an inmate.\n\nAt United States Penitentiary Thomson in Illinois, there were over 300 incidents of inmate-on-staff sexual harassment in a single year. USP Thomson houses only 875 inmates.\n\nThe DOJ OIG report, combined with BOP staff testimonials on this troubling problem, strongly suggests that BOP\u2019s reporting and corrective procedures for inmate-on-staff sexual assault and harassment are inadequate, creating an institutional culture that lacks accountability and endangers BOP employees.\n\nTHE PRISON STAFF SAFETY ENHANCEMENT ACT\n\nThe Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act will require:\n\nThe BOP to fully implement the recommendations in the Inspector General\u2019s 2023 report regarding mitigating inmate-on-staff sexual harassment and assault and to fully ascertain the scope of the problem;\n\nThe DOJ OIG to conduct an analysis of punishments for sexual harassment and sexual assault in BOP facilities; and\n\nThe U.S. Attorney General to promulgate a rule adopting national standards for prevention, reduction, and punishment of sexual assault and harassment of BOP staff by inmates.\n\nClick here for bill text.\n\nENDORSEMENTS\n\nThis legislation is endorsed by the American Correctional Association, the Fraternal Order of Police, and the National Council of Prison Locals 33.\n\n\u201cThe American Correctional Association (ACA) applauds the President for signing the bipartisan Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act into law. This important legislation will help protect Bureau of Prisons employees from sexual assault and harassment on the job and reflects the bipartisan cooperation our correctional officers deserve. We commend Senators Blackburn and Ossoff for championing this legislation and thank the lawmakers on both sides of the aisle who worked together to get it across the finish line. ACA looks forward to building on this momentum as we continue working with Congress to ensure safe working conditions for correctional officers nationwide,\u201d said Robert Green, American Correctional Association Executive Director.\n\n\u201cThe National Fraternal Order of Police applauds the passage of S. 307, the \"Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act,\u201d which was signed into law by President Trump. The new statute ensures that any act of sexual harassment or assault against Bureau of Prisons (BOP) staff will be swiftly punished. The FOP is grateful for the leadership of Senators Blackburn and Ossoff in their efforts to help improve the safety of Federal correctional officers,\u201d said Patrick Yoes, President of the Fraternal Order of Police.\n\nRELATED\n\nBlackburn Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Sexual Abuse of Prison Staff Heads to President Trump\u2019s Desk\n\nBlackburn, Ossoff Introduce Bill to Prevent Sexual Abuse of Prison Staff", 1, "2026-09-21T10:25:24Z", "2026-09-21T10:26:54Z"], ["https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-bill-empowers-domestic-violence-victims-to-seek-help", "Rep. Van Epps\u2019 Bill Empowers Domestic Violence Victims to Seek Help", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Matt Van Epps", "V000139", "vanepps.house.gov", "vanepps", "https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C.\u2014Today, Rep. Matt Van Epps (TN-07) introduced the Screening Harm, Identifying Escalating Lethality Danger (SHIELD) For Victims Act. This legislation would implement an evidence-based intervention program used by first responders to identify victims of intimate partner violence called a Lethality Assessment.\n\nUnder the Lethality Assessment protocol, victims identified as being at high risk are immediately connected with a domestic violence crisis hotline. This on-the-spot intervention gives victims an opportunity to speak with an advocate, develop a safety plan, and access resources while law enforcement officers are still present.\n\nRep. Van Epps said, \u201cNearly one in four women have experienced physical violence by an intimate partner. On average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. Even more disturbing is how often domestic violence turns deadly. In 2021, intimate partners were responsible for 34% of all murders and nonnegligent manslaughters of women in the United States. It is clear that more must be done to combat domestic violence. That is why I introduced the SHIELD For Victims Act. This legislation trains federal law enforcement officers to conduct a Lethality Assessment when encountering a domestic violence situation. Lethality assessments and similar interventions have proven to reduce the homicides of women by an intimate partner by 40 percent,\u201d he continued.\n\nThe Congressman concluded, \u201cI am confident that connecting domestic violence victims with resources while in the presence of law enforcement will empower them to protect themselves and their children from an abuser. Taking away an abuser\u2019s ability to intimidate or manipulate is crucial. Domestic violence resource centers can help victims find safe housing and transportation, develop safety plans, and navigate the court system. This bill won\u2019t just help shield victims from domestic violence; it could help them build a new life.\u201d\n\nSharon K. Roberson, Esq., President and CEO, YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee, said, \u201cFor more than a decade, YWCA Nashville has partnered with the Metro Nashville Police Department through the Lethality Assessment Program, and we know firsthand that this saves lives. When law enforcement is trained to recognize the warning signs of escalating danger, they can quickly connect victims at the highest risk of being killed with advocates and service providers like the YWCA and our Weaver Domestic Violence Center. The SHIELD for Victims Act would bring this proven, life-saving approach to individuals and communities that interface with federal law enforcement.\u201d\n\nChief John Drake, Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, said, \u201cConducting proven lethality assessments in response to intimate-partner violence saves lives and breaks cycles of abuse. That\u2019s why the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, in coordination with counselors and victim advocates, has been conducting lethality screenings for years. All Nashville police officers have been trained in the process. Expanding lethality assessment protocols nationally through the SHIELD for Victims Act will help make families and communities safer.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/9/blackburn-bill-to-support-music-tourism-heads-to-president-trump-s-desk", "Blackburn Bill to Support Music Tourism Heads to President Trump\u2019s Desk", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) released the following statements after the U.S. House of Representatives passed their bipartisan legislation, American Music Tourism Act, to support music tourism in Tennessee and across the country:\n\n\u201cThe Volunteer State is home to so many iconic landmarks for tourists to experience \u2013 from Graceland in Memphis to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville to Dollywood in Pigeon Forge,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cMusic tourism has such a positive impact on Tennessee\u2019s economy, and we need to ensure that fans from all over the world continue to celebrate our state\u2019s rich history of music for generations to come. The American Music Tourism Act will promote and support the fast-growing tourism industry, and I am pleased it is heading to President Trump\u2019s desk.\u201d\n\n\u201cFrom Red Rocks to The Mish, Colorado is fortunate to have so many outstanding music venues that bring culture, tourism, and economic opportunity to our communities,\u201d said Senator Hickenlooper. \u201cThe American Music Tourism Act will help bring even more visitors to venues in Colorado and across the country. We\u2019re glad to see it pass the House and urge the President to sign it into law.\u201d\n\nThe American Music Tourism Act is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), and Ted Budd (R-N.C.).\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nMusic tourism \u2013 both the act of visiting sites important to the history of American music culture and the act of traveling for concerts and music festivals \u2013 is a vital industry for American culture and an economic driver for our communities.\n\nMusic tourism has emerged as a top travel trend, with the market forecasted to reach $11.3 billion in revenue by 2032.\n\nThe United States, which boasts one of world\u2019s largest music industries that generates over $43 billion in revenue each year, is one of the main beneficiaries of this international interest in music tourism.\n\nThe Commerce Department\u2019s Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism is uniquely positioned to identify and promote sites of musical significance.\n\nTHE AMERICAN MUSIC TOURISM ACT\n\nThe American Music Tourism Act would leverage the existing tourism framework within the Department of Commerce to highlight and promote music tourism in the United States.\n\nSpecifically, this bill would require:\n\nThe Assistant Secretary to implement a plan to support and increase music tourism for both domestic and international visitors; and\n\nA report to Congress on the successes and vulnerabilities of the Assistant Secretary\u2019s goals to increase travel and tourism.\n\nClick here for bill text.\n\nRELATED\n\nBlackburn, Hickenlooper Introduce Bipartisan Bill To Increase Music Tourism In U.S.", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-applauds-final-passage-american-music-tourism-act", "Harshbarger Applauds Final Passage of American Music Tourism Act", "2026-09-15", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed S. 195, the American Music Tourism Act of 2025, sending the bipartisan bill to President Trump's desk to be signed into law. Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) led the House companion, H.R. 617, which passed the House in April 2025, while Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) led the Senate companion, S.195, which passed the Senate in May 2025.\n\n\u201cAfter more than two years of work, our bipartisan American Music Tourism Act is officially headed to President Trump's desk. As home to iconic destinations like Dollywood in Pigeon Forge and the Birthplace of Country Music in Bristol, Tennessee's First District plays a vital role in the music tourism industry, and this bill will have a direct impact on a district that lives and breathes it. I'm grateful to Senator Blackburn for getting this bill through the Senate, and I look forward to President Trump signing it into law,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger.\n\n\u201cThe Volunteer State is home to so many iconic musical landmarks for tourists to experience \u2013 from Graceland in Memphis to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville to Dollywood in Pigeon Forge,\u201d said Senator Marsha Blackburn. \u201cMusic tourism has such a positive impact on Tennessee\u2019s economy, and we need to ensure that fans from all over the world continue to celebrate our state\u2019s rich history of music for generations to come. The American Music Tourism Act will promote and support the fast-growing music tourism industry, and I am pleased it is heading to President Trump\u2019s desk.\u201d\n\nCLICK HERE to learn more about the American Music Tourism Act.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbargers-affordable-innovation-grid-act-passes-us-house", "Harshbarger's Affordable Innovation for the Grid Act Passes U.S. House", "2026-09-15", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 9339, the Affordable Innovation for the Grid Act, legislation to direct the U.S. Secretary of Energy to assess how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and High-Performance Computing (HPC) technologies can strengthen the capacity, reliability, and efficiency of America's bulk-power system.\n\n\u201cToday's vote gets us one step closer to a grid that can actually keep pace with America's energy needs,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \u201cInterconnection backlogs are a drag on grid performance and American competitiveness at a moment when energy demand is skyrocketing like never before. Understanding how AI and HPCs can help our bulk-power system run on full power will be critical to ensuring affordable rates for the long term. I'm grateful to Congressman Mullin for partnering with me on this bipartisan solution, and I'll keep pushing to get it to the President's desk.\u201d\n\nCLICK HERE to learn more about the Affordable Innovation for the Grid Act.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/van-epps-and-mccollum-introduce-bipartisan-critical-materials-future-act", "Van Epps and McCollum Introduce Bipartisan Critical Materials Future Act", "2026-09-15", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Matt Van Epps", "V000139", "vanepps.house.gov", "vanepps", "https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Matt Van Epps (R-TN) and Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D-MN) introduced the Critical Materials Future Act. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation would establish a pilot program at the Department of Energy to financially support domestic critical material processing projects.\n\n\u201cRelying on foreign sources for our critical mineral supply is gambling with both our economic and national security. Today, China leads global processing of key critical minerals, refining more than 90% of graphite and nearly all gallium, which are essential to semiconductors and batteries. China also refines more than 90% of rare earth elements used in magnets for advanced defense technologies,\u201d said Rep. Van Epps. \u201cIt is far past time for the United States to end this dangerous dependence. We can do this by paving the way for more critical mineral processing right here at home. That\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to co-lead the Critical Materials Future Act alongside Congresswoman McCollum. This bipartisan legislation establishes a pilot program to support companies committed to building critical mineral processing operations here in the United States. By strengthening our domestic supply chains, this legislation will reduce our dependence on foreign adversaries and move us one step closer to revitalizing the American defense industrial base.\"\n\n\u201cSecuring a domestic critical mineral supply chain is essential for manufacturing clean energy technologies,\u201d said Rep. McCollum. \u201cFor far too long, critical minerals extracted from our public lands have been shipped overseas for processing to be sold on the global market or bought back by American companies. That is not good stewardship of our natural resources, nor is it a good national security strategy. The Critical Materials Future Act will ensure that when we extract these resources, we also have the capacity to process them here at home.\u201d\n\nThe U.S. critical minerals list contains 50 minerals\u2014including graphite, nickel, and cobalt\u2014that are essential to our economy, infrastructure, and military capability. Critical minerals are used in smartphones, electric vehicle batteries, solar panels, wind turbines, and more.\n\nIn December 2024, China announced that it would immediately block the export of three critical minerals\u2014gallium, germanium, and antimony\u2014to the U.S. China currently controls 90% of the global processing capacity for rare earth elements and over 80% of the processing for other critical minerals like cobalt, gallium, and graphite. Experts have become increasingly concerned with U.S. dependence on China for critical materials, arguing it poses a significant risk to national security.\n\nThe Critical Materials Future Act supports critical material processing projects in the United States by granting the Secretary of Energy the authority and funding to deploy innovative financial mechanisms, such as contracts for differences and advanced market commitments, within this sector.\n\nThe bill also requires the Secretary of Energy to conduct a comprehensive study on the impact of these financial tools on market dynamics and processing projects within the critical materials sector, and to provide recommendations for expanding their use to strengthen America's processing capabilities.\n\nThe Senate companion, S. 596, was introduced by Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-CO) with Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Todd Young (R-IN), and referred to the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.\n\nIn the 118th Congress, Congresswoman McCollum introduced H.R. 5021, the Securing American Critical Minerals Act, a bill to prohibit the sale or transfer of critical minerals to our adversaries.", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-s-remarks-on-innovation-and-disaster-prevention-at-sst-committee-hearing", "Rep. Van Epps\u2019s Remarks on Innovation and Disaster Prevention at SST Committee Hearing", "2026-09-15", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Matt Van Epps", "V000139", "vanepps.house.gov", "vanepps", "https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Rep. Van Epps (TN-07) participated in a Science, Space, and Technology (SST) Committee hearing titled \u201cInnovation in Disaster Prevention: Advancing Technology for Prediction and Response.\u201d\n\nWatch Rep. Van Epps\u2019 statement and questions here.\n\n\u201cThank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you to our witnesses for being here today.\n\nI\u2019m grateful for the work the Chairman and this committee have done to prioritize natural disaster preparedness and response.\n\nIn 2023, Middle Tennessee was hit by an EF-3 tornado, resulting in 4 fatalities and significant damage. In 2021, deadly flash floods struck Humphreys County, tragically killing 20.\n\nWhen a catastrophic weather event strikes, the lives of Americans can change dramatically \u2013 I've seen it firsthand in Tennessee working in the State Government. That\u2019s why we must use the best technology at our disposal to equip first responders to appropriately prepare and respond to these natural disasters.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/09/14/hagerty-tn-delegation-urge-swift-approval-of-major-disaster-declaration-requests-after-severe-weather-impacts-west-tennessee/", "Hagerty, TN Delegation Urge Swift Approval of Major Disaster Declaration Requests After Severe Weather Impacts West Tennessee", "2026-09-14", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014On Friday, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) joined the Tennessee delegation in sending a letter to President Donald Trump urging his swift approval of Governor Bill Lee\u2019s request for a Major Disaster Declaration following severe storms that affected areas of West Tennessee.\n\nCo-signers of the letter include Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), along with Representatives Diana Harshbarger (R-TN-01), Tim Burchett (R-TN-02), Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN-03), Scott DesJarlais (R-TN-04), Matt Van Epps (R-TN-07), David Kustoff (R-TN-08), and Steve Cohen (D-TN-09).\n\nA copy of the letter can be found here and below.\n\nDear Mr. President:\n\nWe write to urge swift approval of Governor Bill Lee\u2019s request for a major disaster declaration pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act due to severe weather occurring on August 22, 2026.\n\nOn August 22, a severe thunderstorm moved through the Mid-South and into West Tennessee, producing widespread damaging straight-line winds. Severe weather, including prolific straight-line winds and hail, caused significant damage to the power grid, particularly in Shelby County. The National Weather Service reported that more than 130,000 customers were without power, in addition to extensive tree damage, downed power lines, and road closures. Peak wind speeds were estimated between 60 and 80 miles per hour, with the storm lasting approximately 45 minutes in Shelby County and 90 minutes across the entire affected area. Ongoing extreme heat following the storm also posed serious risks to vulnerable residents, including seniors, young children, people with disabilities, low-income households, and those without access to cooling.\n\nTo respond to this disaster, Governor Lee is specifically requesting a Major Disaster Declaration for Individual Assistance and Public Assistance for Shelby County and Hazard Mitigation statewide. The State is also requesting direct Federal assistance for debris management support, including technical monitoring and mentoring to affected areas. On behalf of the State of Tennessee, we urge you to approve this request as soon as possible.\n\nOur offices can provide you with any additional information you need.\n\nSincerely,\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-15T09:50:21Z", "2026-09-15T09:52:05Z"], ["https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-commemorates-the-25th-anniversary-of-september-11th", "Rep. Van Epps Commemorates the 25th Anniversary of September 11th", "2026-09-11", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Matt Van Epps", "V000139", "vanepps.house.gov", "vanepps", "https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. Matt Van Epps released a video reflecting on the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, remembering the nearly 3,000 Americans who lost their lives that day and honoring the first responders, servicemembers, and their families who sacrificed in the years that followed.\n\nClick below to watch Rep. Van Epps\u2019 video.\n\nImage\n\nTwenty-five years ago, our country changed forever.\n\nI was a freshman at West Point on September 11, 2001. I remember watching the towers fall in the classroom.\n\nIn that moment, we knew America was under attack.\n\nAnd for those of us at West Point, that day changed the course of our lives. We knew we would graduate into a nation at war, and we began preparing for the fight ahead.\n\nMy class became known as the \u201cClass of 9/11.\u201d We graduated in 2005, and many of us went on to serve in Iraq and Afghanistan.\n\nI eventually joined the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, flying missions to hunt down high-value targets and terrorist leaders in search of justice for that September day.\n\nFor many of us, serving was the honor of a lifetime. But the privilege of serving our country came with a heavy price, paid by servicemembers and their families.\n\nSadly, some of my classmates and thousands of servicemembers made the ultimate sacrifice in the war on terror.\n\nToday, as we mark the 25th Anniversary of September 11th, we remember the nearly 3,000 Americans who were killed that day.\n\nWe remember the firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and every American who ran toward danger and gave their lives trying to save their brothers and sisters.\n\nWe remember the servicemembers who answered the call in the years that followed and didn\u2019t come home.\n\nFor my generation, September 11th was a defining moment.\n\nFor new generations, it is becoming a date in history.\n\nThat is why we have to keep telling the stories.\n\nWe must never forget what happened, who we lost, and the sacrifices that were made in defense of our freedom.\n\nTwenty-five years later, America\u2019s resolve must remain steadfast.\n\nNow, more than ever, we must unite.\n\nMay we never forget September 11th.\n\nMay we never forget those we lost.\n\nAnd may we always remember what it means to keep freedom alive.\n\nBackground", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/9/video-blackburn-honors-victims-of-9-11-on-25th-anniversary", "VIDEO: Blackburn Honors Victims of 9/11 on 25th Anniversary", "2026-09-11", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "NASHVILLE, Tenn. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released a video marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11th terror attacks and honoring the victims, their families, the first responders, and the service members who answered the call.\n\n\u201cLet\u2019s make certain we never forget and that we remember those families, those victims, the loss of life, and the attack on our country,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cAnd let\u2019s be grateful for the men and women who stood up against that attack. Never forget.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/09/11/icymi-hagerty-joinsthe-scott-jennings-show-on-salem-news-channel-to-discuss-midterms-iran-memphis-blade-act/", "ICYMI\u2014Hagerty JoinsThe Scott Jennings Show\u00a0on Salem News Channel to Discuss Midterms, Iran, Memphis, BLADE Act", "2026-09-11", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "DALLAS\u2014On Thursday, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined The Scott Jennings Show on Salem News Channel to discuss the upcoming midterm election, the latest in Iran, the Memphis Safe Task Force, and the BLADE Act.\n\n*Click the photo above or here to watch*\n\nPartial Transcript\n\nHagerty on the RNC Convention: We have had a great delegation from Tennessee and frankly, great delegations from all over the country. There\u2019s a lot of excitement, a lot of enthusiasm. People loved [President Donald Trump\u2019s] speech last night\u2014a lot of energy there. And frankly, a lot of people that weren\u2019t here, but I\u2019ve heard from across the country that are very pleased to see the energy turnaround. And frankly, to be drawing a contrast finally against Democratic candidates. I think people are tired of reading New York Times headlines running these generic polls, Republicans versus Democrats. And now that we actually see what a Democratic socialist stands for, there\u2019s a huge contrast to be made. I think if you just step back and look at what the Democrats have accomplished this past 18, 20 months, they\u2019ve delivered the two longest government shutdowns in history. What they seem to want to deliver is nothing but chaos, shutdowns, and acrimony. The American public hasn\u2019t seen anything positive coming from the Democrats.\n\nHagerty on Iran: The Iranian regime is holding on to see what happens on November the third. It certainly worked out well for them back in 2020. Back at that point in time, I was the U.S. ambassador to Japan. I got the Japanese and my colleagues around the world\u2026 to stop buying Iranian crude oil\u2026 We brought the Iranian economy to a difficult place. It\u2019s even worse right now, but the Iranians held out to see what would happen in the election. Having [former President Joe Biden] in the Oval Office was a gift extraordinaire to the Iranian regime, because immediately the Biden [administration] stopped enforcing all sanctions. Money began to flow by May 2021. We had the 11-day war break out in Israel\u2014you know what happened on October 7th of 2023. Terror breaks out through the entire region because Iran [was] in a position to fund it. We have shut that down now\u2026 they\u2019re hanging on by a thread.\n\nHagerty on the Memphis Safe Task Force: I don\u2019t think you could see a finer contrast in America than the difference between Memphis, Tennessee, and Minneapolis, Minnesota. And the one difference there, the one singular difference is that in Memphis, we worked together. We cooperated; we coordinated.\n\nHagerty on the creation of the Memphis Safe Task Force: When [FBI Director Kash Patel] called me in December 2024, he said, \u2018Sir, the President is about to make his decision on the FBI director, and I would really appreciate your support.\u2019 I said, \u2018Kash, I\u2019m happy to support you, but I\u2019m going to need your support in Memphis, too.\u2019 And Kash kept his word to me. We began working on this right after Kash came into office and put together, very quietly, a task force. [The task force] first entered the city working with local police and very quietly came in and took out 154 of the worst of the worst criminals. These are gang members. Through the summer, we took that number up to well over 500, and President Trump is watching our progress all along the way, and said, \u2018Okay, we\u2019re going to put the full menu in place.\u2019 Meaning 16, 17 different crime enforcement agencies, including the [U.S. National Guard]\u2026 People in Memphis today would tell you, \u2018Thank you, thank you, and thank you again, President Trump,\u2019 for doing it. Crime has gone through the floor. Memphis is a great city\u2014now it\u2019s one of the safest cities in America. We\u2019re going to continue working on this. My hat is off to [Memphis Mayor Paul Young], who has cooperated with us, to [Tennessee Governor Bill Lee], who has now taken what were eight state troopers up to 100 in the area. And President Trump has done a magnificent job.\n\nHagerty on the cooperation of state and federal agencies: It shows what happens when you have cooperation between federal government, state government, local government\u2014cooperation between Republicans and Democrats. It shows that it works in these other cities. We know Chicago has been resistant to this idea\u2026 where the Democrats will not cooperate. Violent crime continues to proliferate over Labor Day weekend in Chicago\u2014scores of people were shot and murdered. They just won\u2019t put their people first. They cannot get over the politics. It\u2019s so sad that they\u2019re willing to sacrifice their own citizens to stand on some ideological point that obviously doesn\u2019t work. But again, Memphis stands as a shining example, and my hat is off to [Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller] at the White House, to the president, of course, to Kash Patel, to the [U.S. Department of Justice], and all of the agencies that are there on the ground.\n\nHagerty on the BLADE Act: My experience in Asia goes back to 1988, when I worked for Boston Consulting Group. They sent me to the region for three years. What I have seen evolve is an industrial policy that the Chinese deploy where they steal our intellectual property. They don\u2019t play by the same set of rules. They use our IP, come in, cut costs, and try to push American companies out of business. They\u2019re doing the same thing in AI. Their distillation models are stealing from us, basically. They\u2019re stealing intellectual property from us. They\u2019re using those to come in and offer a cheap alternative to take over the AI marketplace. We cannot let that happen. We\u2019ve got to lead in this arena. We need to do it responsibly. But the BLADE Act gives us the tools to put in place sanctions to come in and deal directly with those companies that are involved in this illegal distillation, and sanction them in a way that will stop it.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/from-the-battlefield-to-congress-911-shaped-the-men-and-women-who-answered-the-call-to-serve", "From the Battlefield to Congress, 9/11 Shaped the Men and Women Who Answered the Call to Serve", "2026-09-11", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Matt Van Epps", "V000139", "vanepps.house.gov", "vanepps", "https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Twenty-five years after the 9/11 terrorist attacks devastated our nation, a generation of patriots stepped up to answer the call to service. In a brand-new episode of the Republican Study Committee\u2019s (RSC) Right to the Point podcast, Rep. Matt Van Epps (TN-07) sits down with Rep. Gabe Evans (CO-08) to discuss the events leading up to 9/11, reflect on the twenty-five years since 9/11, and share their unique perspectives as members of the generation whose lives and careers were shaped by the impacts of the worst terrorist attack in history.\n\nBoth Congressmen recall where they were on America\u2019s darkest day. Rep. Van Epps was a freshman at West Point when the whole trajectory of his young career was changed, and Rep. Evans was a young high schooler with his whole life ahead of him. They recount how the event influenced their decision to serve, led them to the Middle East, and continues to inform their service in the halls of Congress today.\n\nThe Congressmen also highlight the progress the U.S. military has made to rebuild its strength and deterrence under President Trump and Republicans. The Working Families Tax Cuts Act delivered a $150 billion investment into America\u2019s national security, helping equip servicemembers with the resources to meet the threats of tomorrow. House Republicans also passed the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027, taking a major step toward ensuring the United States remains the world\u2019s preeminent fighting force.\n\nYou can listen to the full episode on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-introduces-legislation-fix-outdated-fda-drug-preclusion-rules", "Harshbarger Introduces Legislation to Fix Outdated FDA Drug Preclusion Rules, Protect Access to Dietary Supplements", "2026-09-10", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cAmbiguous FDA standards can leave manufacturers without guidance and consumers guessing about which products are available,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \u201cFor decades, this broken drug preclusion process has allowed Washington bureaucrats to threaten lawful dietary supplements that have safely been purchased over the counter for years, stifling innovation and denying Americans access to products they already trust. My bill delivers the regulatory certainty manufacturers need to innovate and invest with confidence, while establishing transparency and predictability within the drug preclusion framework and preserving consumer access to dietary supplements.\u201d\n\n\u201cRepresentative Harshbarger has introduced exactly the kind of thoughtful, balanced legislation this issue has needed for years,\u201d said Steve Mister, President & CEO of the Council for Responsible Nutrition. \u201cThis bill doesn't weaken FDA or undermine pharmaceutical innovation. Instead, it restores the balance Congress intended when it enacted DSHEA by creating evenhanded, transparent, or predictable rules that allow both industries to innovate while protecting consumer access to safe dietary supplements. We commend Representative Harshbarger for her leadership and strongly urge Congress to advance this legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe applaud Representative Harshbarger for introducing this important legislation, which modernizes an outdated provision of law, provides much-needed regulatory certainty, and helps ensure consumer access keeps pace with innovation,\u201d said Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) President and CEO Scott Melville.", 1, "2026-09-11T09:25:29Z", "2026-09-11T09:27:08Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/9/blackburn-duckworth-reintroduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-improve-life-saving-emergency-communication-technology", "Blackburn, Duckworth Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Life-Saving Emergency Communication Technology", "2026-09-10", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "NASHVILLE, Tenn. \u2013 U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), members of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, reintroduced legislation to improve emergency communication technology and help save lives. The ITS Codification Act would codify the Institute for Telecommunication Sciences (ITS), which currently serves as the research and engineering laboratory at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, and require ITS to develop emergency communication and tracking technologies to help locate trapped individuals in confined spaces where conventional radio communication is limited.\n\n\u201cFirst responders in Tennessee need access to reliable technology that will help them locate trapped individuals in confined spaces where radio signals fail,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cOur bipartisan ITS Codification Act would drive the development of advanced communication technologies to help first responders save more lives when every second counts.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-david-kustoff-meets-west-tennesseans-during-august-district-work", "Congressman David Kustoff Meets with West Tennesseans During August District Work Period", "2026-09-10", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "David Kustoff", "K000392", "kustoff.house.gov", "kustoff", "https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "September 10, 2026\n\nMEMPHIS, TN \u2014 During the month of August, Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN-08) spent the district work period back home in Tennessee\u2019s 8th Congressional District, meeting directly with West Tennesseans and discussing the issues important to communities across the region.\n\n\u201cThe heartbeat of America is found in places like West Tennessee,\u201d said Congressman Kustoff. \u201cLast month, I met with farmers, health care providers, manufacturers, law enforcement officers, small business owners, and civic leaders across Tennessee\u2019s 8th Congressional District. Those conversations shape my work in Washington, and I will continue fighting for the West Tennesseans who make our community strong.\u201d\n\nCongressman Kustoff\u2019s August stops and events included:\n\nShelby County\n\nFedEx: Met with FedEx President & CEO Raj Subramaniam in Memphis to discuss the logistics company\u2019s vital role in our state and national economy.\n\nOrgill: Toured Orgill\u2019s state-of-the-art Innovation Center with President & CEO Boyden Moore and learned more about the company\u2019s work supporting independent retailers.\n\nEpicenter Memphis: Led a roundtable discussion at Epicenter Memphis with Launch Tennessee CEO Lindsey Cox, local entrepreneurs, and startup founders.\n\nFrederick W. Smith International Airport: Attended the renaming and dedication ceremony for Frederick W. Smith International Airport, honoring FedEx founder Fred Smith.\n\nInternational Port of Memphis: Toured the International Port of Memphis with local transportation and economic development leaders, including EDGE Memphis President and CEO Dr. Joann Massey, Executive Director of the Port of Memphis and Vice President of Port and Industrial Properties Randy Richardson, and Port Operations Manager Larry Baker.\n\nFedEx Freight: Met with FedEx Freight CEO John Smith to discuss the company\u2019s freight transportation operations.\n\nMedtronic: Toured Medtronic\u2019s Shelby County facility with Site Director Brandon Gentry and discussed the company\u2019s work in spinal, cranial, and surgical technologies.\n\nSmith+Nephew: Visited Smith+Nephew\u2019s Shelby County manufacturing facility with Oxinium Manufacturing Operations Lead Jasmin Nuhic and met with employees supporting the company\u2019s orthopedic technology portfolio.\n\nMiCare Path: Met with MiCare Path CEO Scott Laster and John Bobango to discuss the Memphis-based health care technology company\u2019s work in remote patient monitoring.\n\nStryker: Met with Stryker Division Counsel Tom McAllister to discuss the company\u2019s Shelby County operations supporting orthopedic trauma and extremities care.\n\nSimmons Bank Liberty Stadium: Toured the newly renovated Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, home of the Memphis Tigers, with University of Memphis Senior Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Dr. Ed Scott and Senior Deputy Athletics Director Tim Duncan.\n\nMemphis Zoo: Visited the Memphis Zoo and met with President & CEO Matt Thompson and Chief Development Officer Michele Correia about its role as a major Mid-South attraction.\n\nLe Bonheur Children\u2019s Hospital: Toured Le Bonheur Children\u2019s Hospital and met with President Dr. Trey Eubanks, Trauma Program Director Dr. Regan Williams, and members of its leadership team.\n\nAlliance Healthcare Services: Met with Alliance Healthcare Services CEO Laurie Powell, Board President Quintin Robinson, Shelby County Commissioner Mark Billingsley, who represents District 4, and members of the Alliance Healthcare Services team, a Memphis behavioral health care provider.\n\nTennessee Breast Cancer Coalition: Met with members of the Tennessee Breast Cancer Coalition, including Board Member Julie Evert, to discuss efforts to support Tennesseans affected by breast cancer.\n\nInsurance and Financial Advisors: Met with members of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, including Tim Moran, Rebecca Schulter, and Mark Miller of UCL Financial Group, to discuss his work supporting financial professionals and the families they serve.\n\nCollierville National Night Out: Joined Collierville Police Chief Dale Lane, Town of Collierville Mayor Maureen Fraser, and local residents for National Night Out, an annual event bringing together members of the community and law enforcement.\n\nGermantown Police Department: Spoke at the swearing-in ceremony for new Germantown police officers Brian Quinn and Cameron Reverts alongside Germantown Municipal Court Judge Robert Brannon, City of Germantown Mayor Mike Palazzolo, and Germantown Police Chief Mike Fisher.\n\nSheriff Floyd Bonner Retirement Ceremony: Attended Shelby County Sheriff Floyd Bonner\u2019s retirement ceremony and presented him with an American flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in recognition of his 46 years in law enforcement.\n\nTennessee Valley Authority (TVA): Delivered welcome remarks at the TVA Board of Directors meeting in Memphis and thanked TVA Board Chairman Mitch Graves for his leadership.\n\nEast Memphis Rotary Club: Spoke with East Memphis Rotary Club President Mark Beutelschies, Mike Edwards, and Rotary members about his work supporting Tennessee\u2019s economy and local employers.\n\nArlington Chamber of Commerce: Spoke with Arlington Chamber President Tonia Howell, Chamber Board President Chris Willoughby, Town of Arlington Mayor Mike Wissman, and Chamber members about his work supporting local businesses.\n\nBartlett Chamber of Commerce: Met with Bartlett Area Chamber President & CEO John Threadgill, City of Bartlett Mayor David Parsons, Chamber leadership, and local officials.\n\nTennessee Bankers Association: Spoke to Shelby County bankers about his work on the House Ways and Means Committee.\n\nTipton County\n\nMueller Fittings Company: Toured Mueller Fittings Company with General Manager Kevin Gay and City of Covington Mayor Jan Wade Hensley, visiting the Covington manufacturer of copper fittings for plumbing, HVAC, and industrial use.\n\nMagnum Ice Cream: Toured the Magnum Ice Cream factory in Tipton County with Head of Factory Andres Borrero.\n\nBaptist Memorial Hospital-Tipton: Toured Baptist Memorial Hospital-Tipton and met with CFO Carlos Mendoza, Administrator for Quality and Compliance Madalyn Mason, Director of HR Myra Cousar, and hospital leadership.\n\nMadison County\n\nTennessee Bankers Association: Spoke with Madison County bankers at an event hosted by Tennessee Bankers Association President Colin Barrett about the One Big Beautiful Bill and his work to support West Tennessee\u2019s financial institutions.\n\nStanley Black & Decker: Toured Stanley Black & Decker\u2019s Madison County facility and met with Plant Manager Nichole Hally, Distribution Site Leader David Eastman, and the manufacturing team.\n\nMars Snacking: Visited Mars Snacking\u2019s Jackson site and met with Plant Director Bryan Sparks, HR Director Laura Borchardt, Public Affairs Director Carlos Monje, and the team at the food manufacturing facility.\n\nVolunteer Ag Services: Joined farmer John Verell and Tennessee State Representative Chris Todd, who represents House District 73, at the Brandon Karcher Memorial Field Day hosted by Volunteer Ag Services, an agricultural services company supporting farmers across the region.\n\nToyota Motor Manufacturing Tennessee: Toured Toyota\u2019s Jackson facility and met with Toyota Motor Manufacturing Tennessee President Todd Williams, Regional Director William Downey, Plant Manager Scott Hastings, Senior Manager of HR Jason Bates, and the automotive manufacturer\u2019s West Tennessee team.\n\nDynamix Physical Therapy: Toured Dynamix Physical Therapy with Co-Founder and Chief Development Officer Heath Ladd, Chief Clinical Officer Nick Nordtvedt, and members of the team at the local physical therapy provider in Madison County.\n\nDream Center: Toured the Dream Center with Tennessee State Senator Ed Jackson, who represents Senate District 25, Executive Director Gail Gustafson, and Assistant Director Robin Apelgren. The Dream Center is a nonprofit helping women and mothers with children overcome homelessness in Madison County.\n\nAARP: Met with AARP Associate State Director of Advocacy Makayla McCree and AARP team leaders Gwen Ragland and Gary Ragland to discuss advocacy for seniors across West Tennessee.\n\nGenPac: Visited GenPac, a family-owned packaging business based in Madison County, and met with GenPac President Charles Woodside.\n\nJudge Steven W. Maroney Investiture: Spoke at the investiture ceremony for Judge Steven W. Maroney\u2019s appointment to the Tennessee Court of Appeals, Western Section, alongside Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, and congratulated Judge Maroney, Holly, and their family.\n\nLane College: Attended the investiture of Dr. Donald W. Comer as the 11th President of Lane College alongside Madison County Mayor AJ Massey and City of Jackson Mayor Scott Conger.\n\nGibson County\n\nGibson County Farm Bureau: Joined Gibson County Farm Bureau County President Justin Pope, Tennessee Farm Bureau Director-at-Large Todd Littleton, UT Institute of Agriculture Senior Vice Chancellor and Senior Vice President Dr. Keith Carver, and local agriculture leaders for a discussion on issues affecting West Tennessee farmers.\n\nWHMc Gun Shop: Visited Lance Sherer, owner of WHMc Gun Shop, a local firearms business in Gibson County, to discuss federal firearms regulations and his work to eliminate the federal suppressor tax.\n\nCrockett County\n\nDirect Customer Solutions: Toured Direct Customer Solutions, a pharmaceutical logistics company in Crockett County, and met with Direct Customer Solutions President Steve Shirley, Executive Vice President Jesse Walters, and company leadership.\n\nMayor Gary Reasons Retirement Celebration: Attended Crockett County Mayor Gary Reasons\u2019 retirement celebration and presented him with a certificate recognizing his 42 years of service.\n\nChester County\n\nExchange Club Carl Perkins Center: Visited the Exchange Club Carl Perkins Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse and met with Director Kirby Fahs, Vice President Delanie Bottoms, and its leadership.\n\nJones Contractors: Met with Jones Contractors Vice President of Finance Patricia Jones and the team at the West Tennessee contractor specializing in pipeline and energy infrastructure.\n\nHenderson-Chester County Chamber of Commerce: Spoke with Chamber President Craig Casey, Vice President Heather Griffin, Executive Director Blake Hopper, Chamber members, and local business leaders about his work on the House Ways and Means Committee to support small businesses.\n\nLocal Health Care and Business Meetings: Met with health care providers Dr. Carey Frix and Dr. Nicole Jennings at Frix-Jennings Clinic, Chad Cherry and Eddie Cherry of Cherry & Son Sales, and Chester County cattle producers Todd Terry and Don Terry.\n\nHenderson County\n\nScotts Hill High School: Spoke with Tennessee Farm Bureau Executive Vice President Bryan Wright, Libby Wilson, and West Tennessee farmers about the Farm Bill and his work in Washington to support the agriculture industry.\n\nHenderson County Sheriff\u2019s Office: Met with retiring Henderson County Sheriff Brian Duke and presented him with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol to thank him for his 20 years of service to Henderson County.\n\nAfter a month of meetings across TN-08, Congressman Kustoff remains committed to listening to West Tennesseans and advocating for their priorities in Congress.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/09/09/icymi-hagerty-joins-varney-co-on-fox-business-to-discuss-tariffs-on-israel-affordability/", "ICYMI\u2014Hagerty Joins\u00a0Varney & Co.\u00a0on Fox Business to Discuss Tariffs on Israel, Affordability", "2026-09-09", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty, (R-TN), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined Varney & Co. on Fox Business to discuss the foreign trade restrictions on Israel and affordability ahead of the midterm election.\n\n*Click the photo above or here to watch*\n\nPartial Transcript\n\nHagerty on foreign trade restrictions on Israel: I\u2019m disappointed, but I\u2019m not surprised. If you look at [the United Kingdom, Canada, France and others], they\u2019re much more concerned about their own domestic politics\u2014appeasing the left in their own countries\u2014than they are about supporting Israel, who is locked arm in arm with the United States and its Arab neighbors trying to defeat a 47-year-old terrorist regime in Iran. Rather than do that, rather than step up to the larger macro issues, they are pandering and dealing with the [Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS)] crowd in their own countries. They should actually be focusing on more important issues in their own countries\u2026 Their military capability that they\u2019ve let wane; they should be beefing that up. Their energy independence\u2014that they\u2019ve lost\u2014instead of depending on Russia, they should be building and working with us. Here they are wasting their time, again, pandering to domestic politics.\n\nHagerty on affordability: I\u2019m in Dallas right now. I was with [Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA)] last night. He makes a very important case: One thing that doesn\u2019t seem to be getting covered very much at all is the fact that job growth is on the rebound. We have exceptional job growth in the private sector. Wages are growing again. That was not the case under Joe Biden, where wages were growing at half the rate of inflation. Under Biden, we had inflation over 9%. We brought that down\u2026 I\u2019ve got the Freedom to Build Act that targets the incredibly high cost of housing right now. The bureaucrat tax, as it\u2019s called, the cost of permitting before you even build the house can be as high as $100,000 in some areas. Dealing with this bureaucratic overhead\u2014the speaker mentioned no tax on tips, no tax on overtime\u2014all of these policies are aimed at bringing affordability to the surface, and we\u2019re going to be focused on it very much.\n\nHagerty on former President Joe Biden\u2019s failed economic policies: We were dealt a very bad hand coming out of [the Biden administration]. But I think what you\u2019ll hear the next couple of days are the programs and the policies that are aimed at dealing with this. If you look to the other side, what have the Democrats\u2019 options been? The only thing that they\u2019ve delivered since [President Donald Trump] took office is two historically long government shutdowns. That has certainly not been good for the economy. In fact, it\u2019s taken GDP growth off. That\u2019s their solution. [The GOP\u2019s] solution is actually to target the problems, deal with deregulation, increase energy independence. We\u2019re producing at a higher level than we ever had before. And by the way, President Trump will resolve the situation in the Middle East and that will bring medium-to-long-term stability to the oil and energy markets, and we will see much greater prosperity from there.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-10T09:25:58Z", "2026-09-10T09:27:09Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-host-sixth-annual-military-academy-day", "Harshbarger to Host Sixth Annual Military Academy Day", "2026-09-08", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Kingsport, TN \u2014 Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) announced today that she will host her sixth annual Military Service Academy Day, connecting students and families across Tennessee's First Congressional District with representatives from our nation's elite service academies and giving students a firsthand look at the path to a military education.\n\n\"Six years in, and it's still one of my greatest privileges to help students across Northeast Tennessee pursue their dream of serving our country,\" said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \"Attending one of our nation's elite service academies is a tremendous honor, and I am proud to assist students in East Tennessee who seek to serve our country in the future. Each year, this event opens the door for young folks to engage directly with representatives from our military academies, ask questions, and begin charting their course toward a future of service to America.\"\n\nStudents will get the chance to speak with representatives about course selection, extracurricular activities, and more.\n\nThe event will be held on Saturday, September 19th at the Kingsport Center for Higher Education, located at 300 W. Market Street in Kingsport, TN 37660. Registration begins at 9:00 AM.\n\nRSVPs are required for attendance: TN01.Academy@mail.house.gov\n\nRepresentatives from the following Military Academies will be in attendance:\n\nU.S. Air Force Academy\n\nU.S. Coast Guard Academy\n\nU.S. Merchant Marine Academy\n\nU.S. Naval Academy\n\nU.S. Military Academy - West Point\n\nFor frequently asked questions regarding military service academy nominations, please clickHERE.", 1, "2026-09-09T09:27:09Z", "2026-09-09T09:29:04Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/09/04/hagerty-applauds-appointment-of-former-chief-of-staff-as-acting-army-secretary/", "Hagerty Applauds Appointment of Former Chief of Staff as Acting Army Secretary", "2026-09-04", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014On Thursday, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) commended President Donald Trump\u2019s appointment of Hagerty\u2019s former chief of staff, Adam Telle, as acting secretary of the Army.\n\nThe president announced Telle\u2019s appointment via a post on Truth Social. In the post, Trump noted that Telle was \u201ca Great Patriot, who is respected by all.\u201d\n\nTelle has a more than 20-year career in public service. He began his tenure in Washington in 2005, serving as a staff member to Sen. Richard Shelby (R-AL) upon his graduation from Mississippi State University, and later as legislative director and deputy chief of staff to Sen. Thad Cochran (R-MS).\n\nTelle served as the chief staff member on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security before moving to the White House Office of Legislative Affairs to serve as Trump\u2019s chief liaison to the Senate during the president\u2019s first term. Among his many accomplishments as liaison, Telle played a pivotal role in implementing the Abraham Accords, as well as in establishing the U.S. Space Force, the newest armed service branch in nearly 70 years.\n\nIn August 2021, Telle returned to Capitol Hill to serve on Hagerty\u2019s staff, where he rose to chief of staff. After President Trump won the 2024 election, Telle was appointed to serve as Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works during the president\u2019s second term in August 2025.\n\nDuring his time as Assistant Secretary, Telle transformed the Army Corps of Engineers\u2019 Civil Works Program, focusing on major national infrastructure projects involving commercial navigation, flood and storm-damage reduction, water resources, environmental restoration and permitting. During his confirmation process, Telle earned the support of the Senate as he advanced through both the Senate Armed Services and the Environment and Public Works Committees and was confirmed by the entire body in a bipartisan 72-22 vote.\n\n\u201cAdam has repeatedly proven himself as a tried and tested leader,\u201d said Hagerty. \u201cThrough his service across multiple areas of government, he\u2019s demonstrated that he can meet any moment and lead diligently, efficiently and\u2014above all\u2014effectively. This is a critical position for our nation\u2019s defense, and I can\u2019t imagine a better leader for the world\u2019s greatest warriors. I have every confidence that Adam will be a catalyst for positive change as acting secretary of the Army and support the outstanding work Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has done thus far in reestablishing American military excellence.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-05T08:49:07Z", "2026-09-05T08:50:44Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/9/blackburn-warner-reintroduce-bill-to-increase-transparency-of-medicare-advantage-benefits-for-seniors", "Blackburn, Warner Reintroduce Bill to Increase Transparency of Medicare Advantage Benefits for Seniors", "2026-09-04", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "NASHVILLE, Tenn. \u2013 U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.), members of the Senate Finance Committee, reintroduced the Medicare Advantage Supplemental Benefits Transparency Act, legislation that would require Medicare Advantage (MA) plans to publicly report the supplemental benefits they offer and the extent to which beneficiaries use them.\n\n\u201cTransparency in Medicare Advantage plans is long overdue,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cThe Medicare Advantage Supplemental Benefits Transparency Act would ensure beneficiaries receive the full value they\u2019ve been promised by requiring plans to publicly report the supplemental benefits they offer and how often seniors actually use them.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe need clear and accessible data in order to properly evaluate the effectiveness of the Medicare Advantage program,\u201d said Senator Warner.\u201cThis legislation will make sure we can ensure the sustainability of Medicare and better evaluate plans, so seniors have the best coverage for their needs.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nIn recent years, the use of Medicare Advantage has skyrocketed, with more than half of eligible beneficiaries nationwide choosing to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. However, there is currently no statutory requirement to specifically report on supplemental benefits, making data on available benefits and their utilization unreliable. Senator Blackburn\u2019s legislation would ensure this information is available to understand beneficiary use of supplemental benefits and their impact on the sustainability of the Medicare program.\n\nMEDICARE ADVANTAGE SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS TRANSPARENCY ACT\n\nSpecifically, the legislation would require Medicare Advantage plans to report enrollee-level data on supplemental benefits to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), as well as report eligibility for benefits, the types of benefit categories offered, and data on utilization of and payments for such benefits. There is currently no statutory requirement to specifically report on supplemental benefits, making data on available benefits and their utilization unreliable.\n\nClick here for bill text.", 1, "2026-09-09T09:27:09Z", "2026-09-09T09:29:04Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-introduces-resolution-honoring-life-and-legacy-dolly-parton-0", "Harshbarger Introduces Resolution Honoring Life and Legacy of Dolly Parton, Leads Moment of Silence on House Floor", "2026-09-02", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) today introduced a resolution honoring the life and legacy of Dolly Parton, the Sevier County native whose music, generosity, and devotion to her East Tennessee roots continue to touch the lives of millions following her passing on Aug. 25, 2026, in Nashville, at age 80. The resolution was co-led by Congressman John Rose (R-TN) and cosponsored by the entire Tennessee House delegation. Harshbarger also led a moment of silence on the House Floor this evening in Parton's honor.\n\n\u201cDolly Parton was one of our own, and she never forgot where she came from,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \u201cHer music told the truth about hard work, faith, and family, and that truth is why the whole world fell in love with her. But it was her heart that made her a legend at home. Whether she was rebuilding after the wildfires that tore through her own community, opening doors for children to learn to read, supporting healthcare and research for Tennessee families, or protecting the mountains she loved, Dolly gave back every chance she got. Guided by her faith and shaped by her East Tennessee upbringing, she used her success to lift up the people around her at every turn. My prayers are with her family and everyone who loved her, and I am honored to lead this effort in the House to make sure her legacy is remembered for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe couldn\u2019t have asked for a better ambassador for Tennessee than Dolly Parton,\u201d said Congressman John Rose. \u201cShe will continue to touch countless lives through her music and philanthropy, including the Imagination Library, and her impact on tourism in East Tennessee will be felt for decades to come. I was honored to sign onto this resolution which recognizes her extraordinary life.\u201d\n\n\u201cDolly Parton embodied everything it meant to be an East Tennessean. Her voice, her style, and her outlook on life were all born from her upbringing in Sevierville. She rose from a poor, rural farmhouse to the peaks of stardom, never forgetting the people and the place that helped her get there. The American Dream resonates with every person in this country, and as much as we love to claim her in Tennessee, she represented all of America. Rest in peace, Dolly,\u201d said Congressman Tim Burchett.\n\n\u201cDolly was a living embodiment of grace, unwavering love and support, and generosity. She was the greatest representative of Tennessee ever. Not just from her musical talents and her philanthropy, but from her big heart and outstanding generosity. She made us all proud. The world would be a better place if more people were like Dolly,\u201d said Congressman Steve Cohen.\n\n\u201cNot one Tennessean has ever done more for our great state than Dolly Parton. I am proud to co-sponsor this resolution to honor her life and legacy of always putting others first,\u201d said Congressman Scott DesJarlais.\n\n\u201cAs we mourn the passing of Dolly Parton, we remember not only a legendary voice but a true Tennessee treasure. Dolly\u2019s kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit brought pride to our state and joy to millions around the world. Her remarkable legacy in music, philanthropy, and the hearts of so many will never be forgotten. From the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee to stages worldwide, Dolly embodied the best of our community's values and touched lives everywhere she went. We honor her memory and give thanks for the extraordinary life she shared with all of us,\" said Congressman Chuck Fleischmann.\n\n\u201cI am honored to cosponsor this resolution recognizing the life and legacy of Dolly Parton,\u201d said Congressman David Kustoff. \u201cDolly brought pride to our state and joy to millions. Dolly\u2019s legacy will remain a part of Tennessee and our nation for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cTennessee has lost one of its brightest stars,\u201d said Congressman Andy Ogles. \u201cDolly Parton was a model Tennessean. A woman of faith, humility, generosity, and extraordinary talent who never forgot where she came from. Our prayers are with Dolly\u2019s family and all those mourning this tremendous loss. Tennessee will never be the same without her.\u201d\n\n\u201cDolly Parton represented the very best of Tennessee, and her loss is being felt around the world. She grew up one of twelve children in a two-room cabin in the mountains of East Tennessee, and no matter how far her career took her, she never forgot where she came from. While widely known for her music and acting, her philanthropic work left its own legacy as well. When wildfires devastated Sevier County in 2016, Dolly stepped in and provided more than 900 families who had lost their homes with $10,000 each. In addition to her many other charitable gifts, her commitment to giving back also led her to establish the Imagination Library in 1995, which began in her home county and grew into a worldwide program that has provided more than 330 million free books to children. While Dolly was always proud to call Tennessee home, Tennessee could not have been prouder to call her one of our own. We will miss her dearly,\" said Congressman Matt Van Epps.\n\n\u201cDolly Parton was a Tennessee treasure who lived out the Volunteer Spirit, loved our nation, and opened doors of opportunity for countless people,\u201d said Senator Marsha Blackburn. \u201cWhile there are no words to fully express the sorrow all Tennesseans feel in her loss, I hope this resolution plays at least a small part in ensuring that her legacy is never forgotten, and I am honored to lead it in the Senate.\u201d\n\n\u201cDolly is truly a Tennessee legend,\u201d said Senator Bill Hagerty. \u201cFrom her humble beginnings in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains to worldwide fame, Dolly exemplified the American Dream. Whether she was performing on stages across the globe, creating opportunities for families to make memories in Dollywood, or fostering a love of reading through her Imagination Library, Dolly lived a life dedicated to encouraging others to dream just as boldly as she did. She never forgot where she came from and left an indelible cultural and economic impact on our state. She will be very dearly missed.\u201d\n\nCLICK HERE to read the resolution.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-03T09:29:33Z", "2026-09-03T09:31:32Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbargers-nuclear-advisory-committee-reform-act-advances-through-energy-and", "Harshbarger's Nuclear Advisory Committee Reform Act Advances Through Energy and Commerce Committee", "2026-09-02", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) released the following statement after the House Energy and Commerce Committee advanced her Nuclear Advisory Committee Reform Act at today's full committee markup, sending the bill to the full House for consideration:\n\n\u201cChina is racing to build reactors while we bury our own designs in paperwork, and that ends with this bill. Today's vote takes us one step closer to making sure our nuclear safety experts are spending their time on the issues that actually matter instead of duplicating work the NRC has already done. I'm grateful to Chairman Guthrie for helping get this through committee, and I'll keep pushing until it's signed into law,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger.", 1, "2026-09-03T09:29:33Z", "2026-09-03T09:31:32Z"], ["https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-chuck-fleischmann-secures-3-million-for-utc-s-translational-research-program", "Congressman Chuck Fleischmann Secures $3 Million for UTC\u2019s Translational Research Program", "2026-08-31", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Charles J. \"Chuck\" Fleischmann", "F000459", "fleischmann.house.gov", "fleischmann", "https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Congressman Chuck Fleischmann has successfully secured $3 million in federal funding to advance the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) Translational Research Program. This significant investment underscores UTC\u2019s commitment to pioneering research and innovation that directly benefits the community and the region.\n\nThe funding, awarded as part of a federal appropriations package, will support UTC\u2019s efforts to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and real-world application. The Translational Research Program at UTC focuses on translating groundbreaking research into practical solutions.\n\n\u201cI am proud to champion investments that strengthen our region\u2019s future. This $3 million in federal funding for UTC\u2019s Translational Research Program will empower our university to turn cutting-edge research into real solutions that benefit Chattanooga, the entire state of Tennessee, and our great nation. Supporting innovation and higher education is critical to creating jobs, advancing technology, and improving lives right here at home,\u201d said Congressman Fleischmann.\n\n\u201cThis investment represents an important next step in expanding UTC\u2019s research enterprise and strengthening our ability to turn discovery into solutions that make a real difference in people\u2019s lives,\u201d Chancellor Lori Mann Bruce said. \u201cAs these funds become available, we can begin putting the people, tools and infrastructure in place to move promising ideas from the laboratory into practical application. We are deeply grateful to Congressman Fleischmann for once again investing in UTC and recognizing the important role our University can play in driving innovation, economic growth and opportunity for Chattanooga, Tennessee and beyond.\u201d\n\nCongressman Fleischmann\u2019s support reflects his ongoing commitment to advancing science, technology, and education in Tennessee. With this funding, UTC will expand research opportunities and foster collaborations with industry and community partners.", 1, "2026-09-01T09:48:49Z", "2026-09-01T09:49:51Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-bipartisan-bill-to-prevent-sexual-abuse-of-prison-staff-heads-to-president-trump-s-desk", "Blackburn Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Sexual Abuse of Prison Staff Heads to President Trump\u2019s Desk", "2026-08-31", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "NASHVILLE, Tenn. \u2013 U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed her bipartisan legislation, the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act, to help address the increasingly pervasive sexual assault and harassment of Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) employees by inmates:\n\n\u201cNo law enforcement officer should have to fear for their safety when they show up to work,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cI am pleased the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act\u2014which will help us end the appalling sexual abuse of prison staff by inmates\u2014has passed the House and is heading to President Trump\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\u201d\n\nThis legislation is also co-sponsored by Senator Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.). Representative Laurel Lee (R-Fla.) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nAccording to a February 2023 report by the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (DOJ OIG), a staggering 40% of 7,000 surveyed BOP staff stated they had been sexually harassed or sexually assaulted by an inmate.\n\nAt United States Penitentiary Thomson in Illinois, there were over 300 incidents of inmate-on-staff sexual harassment in a single year. USP Thomson houses only 875 inmates.\n\nThe DOJ OIG report, combined with BOP staff testimonials on this troubling problem, strongly suggests that BOP\u2019s reporting and corrective procedures for inmate-on-staff sexual assault and harassment are inadequate, creating an institutional culture that lacks accountability and endangers BOP employees.\n\nTHE PRISON STAFF SAFETY ENHANCEMENT ACT\n\nThe Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act will require:\n\nThe BOP to fully implement the recommendations in the Inspector General\u2019s 2023 report regarding mitigating inmate-on-staff sexual harassment and assault and to fully ascertain the scope of the problem;\n\nThe DOJ OIG to conduct an analysis of punishments for sexual harassment and sexual assault in BOP facilities; and\n\nThe U.S. Attorney General to promulgate a rule adopting national standards for prevention, reduction, and punishment of sexual assault and harassment of BOP staff by inmates.\n\nClick here for bill text.\n\nENDORSEMENTS\n\nThis legislation is endorsed by the American Correctional Association,the Fraternal Order of Police, and the National Council of Prison Locals 33.\n\nRELATABLE\n\nBlackburn, Ossoff Introduce Bill to Prevent Sexual Abuse of Prison Staff", 1, "2026-09-02T09:19:58Z", "2026-09-02T09:20:51Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-dingell-introduce-legislation-study-chinese-threats-us-auto", "Harshbarger, Dingell Introduce Legislation to Study Chinese Threats to the U.S. Auto Industry", "2026-08-28", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cChina has a playbook, and we've watched them run it on critical minerals, shipbuilding, and batteries,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \u201cNow they're setting their sights on the global automotive market, building out their industrial base with state subsidies and flooding markets with artificially cheap products to undercut American manufacturers. As vehicles become more connected and software-driven, that strategy isn't just an economic threat, it's a national security threat and a risk to the data of every American behind the wheel. This bill gives policymakers the facts we need to understand how deep this penetration goes and to protect our automotive industry before it's too late.\u201d\n\n\u201cI'm a car girl\u2014I will always fight for our auto workers and this critical industry that is the backbone of America's economy. I am proud to help lead this bipartisan piece of legislation that will create good-paying jobs and protect our national security. And we must continue our efforts to decrease our reliance on China and create a level playing field,\u201d said Congresswoman Debbie Dingell.", 1, "2026-08-29T11:31:28Z", "2026-08-29T11:32:37Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-duckworth-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-counter-communist-china-s-gray-zone-aggression-against-indo-pacific-partners", "Blackburn, Duckworth Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Counter Communist China\u2019s \u2018Gray-Zone\u2019 Aggression Against Indo-Pacific Partners", "2026-08-28", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "NASHVILLE, Tenn. \u2013 U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) introduced bipartisan legislation to improve our nation\u2019s capabilities to counter the People\u2019s Republic of China\u2019s (PRC) intimidation and coercion tactics in the Indo-Pacific, which actively threaten the safety of our partners in the region as well as our national security. Known as \u2018gray-zone tactics,\u2019 these actions are aimed at disrupting regional stability while stopping just short of armed conflict\u2014a dangerous strategy that sets the stage for even harsher intervention by the PRC in the future. The Senators\u2019 bipartisan Countering Gray Zone Aggression by the People\u2019s Republic of China Act would direct the State Department to enhance cooperation with our Indo-Pacific partners and better address the growing threat of PRC aggression in the region.", 1, "2026-08-29T11:31:28Z", "2026-08-29T11:32:37Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-announces-nearly-2-million-federal-trio-funding-east-tennessee", "Harshbarger Announces\u00a0Nearly $2 Million\u00a0in Federal TRIO Funding for East Tennessee", "2026-08-27", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cThese awards mean Talent Search and Educational Opportunity Center staff at East Tennessee State University (ETSU), Tusculum, and Douglas-Cherokee Economic Authority can keep doing this work for another year,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \u201cMy office heard directly from constituents in Johnson City, Greeneville, and across our district who were worried about what changes to this program would mean for their students, and we made sure the U.S. Department of Education understood how much this funding matters here. I'm proud of the work these grantees do every day helping first-generation and low-income students get ready for college, and I'll keep fighting for East Tennessee's fair share of these federal dollars.\u201d\n\n\u201cETSU has a longstanding tradition of serving first-generation and low-income students, helping them access the opportunities they need to thrive in college and beyond,\u201d said Dr. Brian Noland, East Tennessee State University President. \u201cFor more than 20 years, Talent Search and Educational Opportunity Centers at ETSU have annually served 1,600 students to pursue education and training beyond high school, whether at a TCAT, community college, four-year university, or through military service. Through personalized guidance, mentorship, and college and career readiness services, these programs have helped students build pathways to success. We are especially grateful to Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger for her leadership and tireless advocacy in securing funding for these programs, and we thank Senators Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty for their partnership and commitment to expanding educational opportunity. This investment will have a lasting impact on the lives of students and families throughout our region.\u201d", 1, "2026-08-27T16:10:01Z", "2026-08-27T16:10:50Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-introduces-legislation-end-federal-ban-home-distillation", "Harshbarger Introduces\u00a0Legislation to\u00a0End Federal Ban on Home Distillation", "2026-08-27", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Image\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) today introduced the Freedom to Home Distill Act, legislation that would end the federal prohibition on home distillation and extend to distillers the same tax-free, personal-use exemption that home brewers of beer and wine have enjoyed since Congress updated the tax code in 1978.\n\n\u201cIt makes no sense that Americans can legally make beer and wine at home for personal consumption, but not a small batch of spirits,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \u201cDistilling has deep roots in Tennessee and across Appalachia, tied to self-reliance and craftsmanship that go back generations. It's long past time we modernize this outdated federal law. My bill restores an important piece of that tradition and puts personal responsibility back where it belongs: with the American people.\u201d\n\nImage\n\nEric \u201cDigger\u201d Manes, star of the reality television series Moonshiners on the Discovery Channel and native of Tennessee\u2019s First Congressional District:\n\n\u201cIt would be an understatement to say that it was an honor to be involved in authoring the Freedom to Home Distill Act. When I initially approached Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger to explore the possibility of introducing a bill that would allow hobby distillers to engage in their craft without the fear of law enforcement intervention, it was a monumental step. The apprehension of prosecution has been a persistent concern for illegal distillers since George Washington participated in the same process that is now being carried out in these Appalachian hills. My hope is that everyone who reads this will contact their federal representatives, regardless of whether they intend to pursue the hobby themselves, and request their support for this bill. Given that multiple states have legalized marijuana, it appears logical that we should be permitted to engage in our hobby without facing repercussions. Congresswoman Harshbarger has dedicated three years of research and effort to the development of this bill solely because one of her constituents inquired about her interest in becoming a hero to four million citizens. The moonshine community cannot express its gratitude enough to Representative Diana Harshbarger!\u201d\n\nReps. Tim Burchett (R-TN) and Riley Moore (R-WV) joined as original cosponsors.\n\n\u201cNationwide prohibition ended nearly a century ago, yet the federal government continues to regulate domestic distilling operations. There is no reason to keep antiquated and inefficient laws on the books, nor is there any reason that this should not be state-level issue. I support the \u201cFreedom to Home Distill Act\u201d and any legislation that reduces red-tape and strengthens individual liberties,\u201d said Congressman Tim Burchett.\n\n\u201cWest Virginia has a proud tradition of craftsmanship, independence, and yes, moonshining. The federal government shouldn\u2019t stand in the way of responsible adults distilling spirits for personal use in their own homes. The Freedom to Home Distill Act is a commonsense bill that protects Americans\u2019 individual liberties,\u201d said Congressman Riley Moore.\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nUnder current law, home brewers can produce up to 200 gallons of beer or wine per household each year tax-free for personal use. Home distillation of spirits, however, remains fully banned under federal law. The restriction predates Prohibition by more than 50 years and has not been substantively updated since, even as commercial distilling has grown into a legitimate and expanding industry.\n\nThe Freedom to Home Distill Act:\n\nCreates a tax exemption for spirits produced at a qualifying home distillery, defined as a private residence, or a connected shed, yard or enclosure, used solely for personal or family consumption.\n\nSets production limits mirroring current homebrewing limits: up to 10 proof gallons per year for single-adult households and up to 20 proof gallons per year for households with two or more adults age 21 or older.\n\nProhibits any sale or transfer for sale of home-distilled spirits.\n\nExempts qualifying home stills from federal registration and notice requirements, provided the equipment has a pressure release and vacuum relief valve and a capacity no greater than 50 gallons.\n\nRemoves criminal penalties under the tax code for distilling within a qualifying home distillery establishment.\n\nPreserves state authority. The bill applies only to federal law, and states retain full power to regulate or prohibit home distillation as they choose.\n\nADDITIONAL INFORMATION:\n\nBill text\n\nOne-pager\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-28T17:11:49Z", "2026-08-28T17:13:14Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-restore-state-authority-over-insurance", "Blackburn, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Restore State Authority Over Insurance", "2026-08-27", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "NASHVILLE, Tenn. \u2013 U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Mike Lee (R-Utah), and Rand Paul (R-Ky.) recently reintroduced the Federal Insurance Office Abolishment Act. The legislation would abolish the Federal Insurance Office (FIO) within the U.S. Department of the Treasury, returning sole regulatory authority over the insurance industry to the states.\n\n\u201cInsurance regulation has long been, and should remain, a responsibility of the states,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cThe Federal Insurance Office Abolishment Act would eliminate unnecessary federal overreach, cut red tape, and return power to the states.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Federal Insurance Office is a redundant, ever-expanding, unaccountable entity that infringes upon states\u2019 authority to regulate the insurance industry,\u201d said Senator Cruz. \u201cThis legislation will rein in bureaucratic overreach by the federal government and empower state regulators to focus on what is best for consumers in their states.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Federal Insurance Office does not need to exist. It\u2019s an Obama-era expansion of the federal bureaucracy created to intrude on states\u2019 rights,\u201d said Senator Lee. \u201cOur bill will formally abolish this needless expense and return insurance regulation to the states, where it has always belonged.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nIn 1945, Congress passed the McCarran-Ferguson Act, solidifying states\u2019 regulatory authority over the insurance industry. Following the 2008 financial crisis, the Federal Insurance Office (FIO) was created by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, which granted the FIO specific financial stability, monitoring, and international responsibilities. However, these responsibilities duplicate functions within an industry that has long been regulated at the state level and traditionally overseen by state insurance regulators.\n\nThe Federal Insurance Office Abolishment Act would eliminate the FIO and restore primary regulatory authority over the insurance industry to the states.\n\nClick here for bill text", 1, "2026-08-28T17:11:49Z", "2026-08-28T17:13:14Z"], ["https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-resolution-on-fifth-anniversary-of-afghanistan-withdrawal", "Rep. Van Epps\u2019 Resolution on Fifth Anniversary of Afghanistan Withdrawal", "2026-08-26", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Matt Van Epps", "V000139", "vanepps.house.gov", "vanepps", "https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Read the exclusive from Fox News\u2019 Liz Elkind here\n\nIn light of the fifth anniversary of the Biden administration\u2019s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan, Rep. Matt Van Epps (TN-07) will introduce a resolution condemning the series of decisions that led to the death of 13 servicemembers at Abbey Gate.\n\nRep. Van Epps said, \u201cThe United States spent upwards of two trillion dollars fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan. During these two decades, 2,400 servicemembers were killed while many more were injured. It\u2019s impossible to measure the price of the months and years men and women had to spend away from their families, or the other sacrifices servicemembers make daily when deployed to a war zone. I deployed to Afghanistan eight times after the September 11 terrorist attacks, flying many dangerous missions as part of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR). While in Afghanistan, I saw unspeakable horrors, including the Taliban\u2019s oppression of the Afghan people, and then I witnessed too many of my friends return home in flag-draped coffins. After all of this, watching twenty years of our nation\u2019s collective work collapse in a matter of days was traumatic for many veterans. Despite this, I take solace in the fact that we did our job. We took out high-value terrorist targets and made the world safer as a result. This, however, does not change the fact that this withdrawal was poorly planned.\u201d\n\n\u201cMost agree that the United States couldn\u2019t stay in Afghanistan indefinitely, but many also believe that there was a way to leave that didn\u2019t result in an immediate Taliban takeover. While that may be debatable, few disagree that it was President Biden\u2019s flawed decisions and strategic errors that resulted in the bombing at Abbey Gate, stranding 1,000 Americans, leaving billions of dollars' worth of military equipment behind, and deserting our Afghan and NATO allies,\u201d Rep. Van Epps continued.\n\n\u201cTo make matters worse, President Biden has only ever defended his decision over the years to withdraw from Afghanistan by an arbitrary date regardless of the consequences for U.S. personnel, servicemembers, or the Afghan people. Years later, there has still been no meaningful accountability for one of the most damaging foreign policy failures in recent history. That\u2019s why I am introducing this resolution to the House of Representatives. This resolution will remind the world what weakness on the world stage looks like. And this resolution will remind our country about the cost of capitulating to its enemies instead of leading with resolve,\u201d Rep. Van Epps concluded.", 1, "2026-08-27T16:10:01Z", "2026-08-27T16:10:50Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-blumenthal-statement-on-meta-s-landmark-17-billion-settlement-in-case-about-social-media-harms-to-kids", "Blackburn & Blumenthal Statement on Meta\u2019s Landmark $17 Billion Settlement in Case About Social Media Harms to Kids", "2026-08-26", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "NASHVILLE, Tenn. \u2013 U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released the following statement after Meta reached a landmark settlement with 47 states and agreed to pay up to $17.1 billion in penalties over claims it harmed children with social media addiction:\n\n\u201cThis massive settlement shows how terrified Meta and Mark Zuckerberg are of accountability in open court. We applaud the bipartisan coalition of state Attorneys General for forcing Meta to start paying a real price for the harm its products have caused an entire generation of young people. The product design changes imposed under this settlement are a first step toward giving kids and parents the tools they need to take back control of their online lives, but they can be strengthened. Meta notes that these terms are only required to stay in place for 10 years\u2014we must ensure permanent change. We also need safeguards that apply across the board\u2014to all social media companies\u2014not just Instagram and Facebook. This settlement once again demands that Congress pass the Kids Online Safety Act into law before the end of the year.\u201d", 1, "2026-08-27T16:10:01Z", "2026-08-27T16:10:50Z"], ["https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/five-years-after-abbey-gate-republicans-say-biden-s-failures-still-haven-t-been-answered-for", "Five Years After Abbey Gate, Republicans Say Biden's Failures Still Haven't Been Answered For", "2026-08-26", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Matt Van Epps", "V000139", "vanepps.house.gov", "vanepps", "https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Five years ago, an ISIS-K terrorist detonated a suicide bomb at Abbey Gate in Kabul, Afghanistan, killing 13 American servicemembers in the deadliest day for U.S. forces in Afghanistan in over a decade. On this solemn anniversary, Republican Study Committee (RSC) Members honor the memory of these American heroes and the sacrifice they made in service to our country.\n\nThe botched withdrawal from Afghanistan was the direct result of the Biden-Harris administration\u2019s failure to adequately prepare for the operation and account for the consequences of their decisions. RSC Members remain resolute that a catastrophe of this magnitude must never happen again.\n\nPresident Trump and Congressional Republicans have moved decisively to rebuild the strength our fallen heroes deserved. The Working Families Tax Cuts Act delivered a $150 billion investment into America\u2019s national security, equipping our servicemembers to meet an increasingly evolving threat landscape. House Republicans also passed the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027, taking a major step toward restoring American deterrence and rebuilding the United States as the world\u2019s preeminent fighting force.\n\nRSC Members released the following statements:\n\n\u201cFive years ago at Abbey Gate, 13 courageous American servicemembers made the ultimate sacrifice while carrying out a dangerous mission to bring others to safety. We will never forget their bravery, and we continue to mourn with and pray for the families. This solemn anniversary is also a reminder of the catastrophic failures that led to the attack during the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan. Honoring the fallen requires accountability and resolve. We must continue to take the necessary steps to ensure our warfighters have the leadership and resources they need to prevent a tragedy of this magnitude from ever happening again,\u201d said Rep. Mike Rogers (AL-03), Chairman of the House Committee on Armed Services.\n\n\u201cThe 13 heroes of Abbey Gate represented the very best of our nation\u2014standing in the breach to save others with extraordinary courage and selflessness. Having made the ultimate sacrifice, their unwavering devotion to duty will forever be etched in our hearts and honored by a grateful nation,\u201d said Rep. Rick Crawford (AK-01), Chairman of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.\n\n\u201cAbbey Gate showed the world what American weakness looks like. Thirteen heroes lost their lives because the Biden-Harris administration projected chaos instead of strength, and our adversaries took notice. Five years later, Republicans have worked tirelessly to restore what was lost that day. From rebuilding our military to reasserting American resolve on the world stage, we are proving that the era of American weakness is over. We owe it to the fallen at Abbey Gate to make sure this country is never caught in that position again,\u201d said RSC Chairman August Pfluger (TX-11).\n\n\u201cWe must never forget the August 26th, 2021, Surrender in Afghanistan, one of the most disastrous military and foreign policy mistakes in American history. Sadly, 13 brave U.S. servicemembers were killed after successfully preventing resurgence of terrorism for 20 years. Biden capitulation to the Taliban has made Afghanistan a safe haven for terrorists, putting all Americans at risk. Today, we remember the lives lost, and the sacrifices made for our freedom and safety in America,\u201d said Rep. Joe Wilson (SC-02).\n\n\u201cFive years ago, 13 brave American servicemembers made the ultimate sacrifice at Abbey Gate during President Biden\u2019s disastrous Afghanistan withdrawal. Today, we honor their heroism and stand with their Gold Star Families and the other wounded survivors. Their courage and sacrifice will forever be part of the story of our Nation, and we will remain committed to ensuring that American lives and American strength is never taken for granted again,\u201d said Rep. Ronny Jackson (TX-13).", 1, "2026-09-01T09:48:49Z", "2026-09-01T09:49:51Z"], ["https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-passing-dolly-parton", "Statement on the Passing of Dolly Parton", "2026-08-25", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Tim Burchett", "B001309", "burchett.house.gov", "burchett", "https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Following the death of Dolly Parton, Rep. Burchett (TN-02) released the following statement: \"Today, Tennessee lost one of our greatest ambassadors in Dolly Parton. Her music inspired generations of Americans, and her philanthropic work helped provide greater access to education for countless young Tennesseans. She represented the very best of the American Dream, and her legacy will live on for generations to come. Rest in peace, Dolly.\"-- U.S. Representative Tim Burchett (TN-02)\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-26T05:33:32Z", "2026-08-26T05:34:56Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-statement-passing-dolly-parton", "Harshbarger Statement on the Passing of Dolly Parton", "2026-08-25", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Pigeon Forge, TN \u2014 Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) released the following statement today after the death of country music legend and Sevier County native Dolly Parton, who died at age 80:\n\n\u201cDolly Parton was one of ours,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \u201cShe grew up in the hills of Sevier County, right here in Tennessee's First District, and no matter how big her star got, she never stopped being one of us. She built Dollywood into a place that put East Tennessee on the map for the whole world to see, and through her Imagination Library, she put books in the hands of children who needed them most, including so many right here at home. Her music, her generosity, and her love for these mountains will outlast every one of us. Today, East Tennessee is praying for her family and grieving one of our own.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-26T05:33:32Z", "2026-08-26T05:34:56Z"], ["https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/fleischmann-applauds-nist-award-for-quantum-workforce-development-fellowship", "Fleischmann Applauds NIST Award for Quantum Workforce Development Fellowship", "2026-08-24", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Charles J. \"Chuck\" Fleischmann", "F000459", "fleischmann.house.gov", "fleischmann", "https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC - The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has awarded $4,200,000.00 in federal funding as directed by Congressman Fleischmann to strengthen our quantum workforce, marking a significant investment in the future of quantum technology in the United States.\n\nThe program will recruit outstanding talent and provide rigorous, specialized training to the next generation of quantum scientists and engineers. The funding will support fellows, providing them with hands-on experience and advanced training in quantum computing and related fields. In addition to financial support for the fellows, a portion of the grant will be allocated to provide computing time, ensuring fellows have access to state-of-the-art quantum resources essential for their research and professional development.\n\n\"This investment by NIST is a clear signal that America is committed to leading the world in quantum science and technology. By supporting Empowering the Future Grid: Quantum Training for Software Innovation & Utility Applications, we are ensuring that our best and brightest have the resources and training needed to drive innovation and create good-paying jobs right here at home. I\u2019m proud to see investing in the next generation of quantum experts, strengthening our nation\u2019s competitiveness and securing our future,\u201d said Rep. Fleischmann.\n\nThe fellowship is expected to make a significant impact in addressing the growing demand for quantum talent across academia, government, and industry, reinforcing the United States\u2019 position at the forefront of quantum research and development.", 1, "2026-08-25T05:31:37Z", "2026-08-25T05:33:09Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-end-federal-funding-for-harmful-gender-transition-research-on-minors", "Blackburn, Colleagues Introduce Bill to End Federal Funding for Harmful Gender Transition Research on Minors", "2026-08-21", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "NASHVILLE, Tenn. \u2013 U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), James Lankford (R-Okla.), and several of their Senate colleagues recently introduced theProtecting Our Kids from Harmful Research Act to prohibit the use of federal funds for any research or publication promoting gender transitions for minors. The legislation would shield American children from permanent medical and psychological damage, in line with President Trump\u2019s agenda to keep tax dollars from funding child mutilation.\n\n\u201cTaxpayers should not be spending a penny on research done by those who want to push harmful gender transition surgeries and radical gender ideology on our kids,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cThe Protecting Our Kids from Harmful Research Act would prohibit the use of federal funds for any research or study on gender transition surgeries for minors.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhy is the federal bureaucracy in the child mutilation business?\u201d said Senator Lee. \u201cAmericans don\u2019t want to pay millions for these disturbing studies where hundreds of kids are experimented on with puberty-blocking drugs. President Trump rightly halted this attack on America\u2019s kids. Our bill will codify his agenda to keep federal dollars out of gender transition research involving minors.\u201d\n\n\u201cGod creates every child male or female in His perfect image,\u201d said Senator Lankford. \u201cFor too long, taxpayers have been forced to fund sex-rejecting studies on kids. The result has been irreversible physical harm, mental health crises, and families torn apart. President Trump has led the effort to shut down these grants across the federal government, and Congress needs to make it permanent. This bill ensures that not one more taxpayer dollar funds research designed to harm children.\u201d\n\nThis legislation is also co-sponsored by Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), and Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.). It is endorsed by Students for Life Action and the American Principles Project.\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nBetween 2019 and 2023, nearly 14,000 children were prescribed puberty blockers or cross-sex hormones, and more than 5,700 were subjected to surgical procedures like mastectomies or genital reassignment.\n\nIn January 2025, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14187, directing our government to stand up for these victims and restrict funding, programs, and health coverage for these procedures.\n\nPROTECTING OUR KIDS FROM HARMFUL RESEARCH ACT\n\nSpecifically, the Protecting Our Kids from Harmful Research Act would prohibit the use of federal funds for any research, observational study, or publication relating to gender transitions in individuals under the age of 18, which is conducted for the purpose of affirming a minor\u2019s asserted identity or perception of his or her sex, if such is incongruent with the minor\u2019s biological sex.\n\nClick here for bill text.", 1, "2026-08-22T05:24:59Z", "2026-08-22T05:26:16Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-blumenthal-press-tiktok-for-intentionally-withholding-safety-features-from-children", "Blackburn, Blumenthal Press TikTok for Intentionally Withholding Safety Features From Children", "2026-08-20", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "NASHVILLE, Tenn. \u2013 U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) sent a letter to TikTok regarding a recent report that the social media company endangered children by knowingly withholding an algorithmic safety measure from millions of American users to determine whether the safeguard would reduce engagement on its platform.\n\nIn the letter, Senator Blackburn and Senator Blumenthal requested a prompt response to a detailed list of questions, including whether TikTok conducted a risk assessment before the experiment, what the results of the experiment were, and how many U.S. users TikTok has placed in experiments that withheld safety features. Senator Blackburn and Senator Blumenthal\u2019s Kids Online Safety Act would require social media platforms like TikTok to design their products with child safety in mind.\n\nNew Report Reveals TikTok Conducted Harmful Experiment on 15 Million U.S. Users\n\n\u201cAccording to reports, TikTok developed changes to its recommendation algorithm intended to prevent users from being repeatedly and intentionally exposed to potentially harmful content, including videos concerning sadness, loneliness, extreme dieting, and other sensitive subjects. In December 2021, TikTok publicly announced that it was testing ways to avoid recommending clusters of similar content that could be harmful when viewed repeatedly. TikTok did not disclose, however, its depraved decision to intentionally withhold these protections from approximately 10 percent of its U.S. users\u2014a control group that reportedly represented approximately 15 million Americans at the time\u2026 TikTok appeared fixated on whether the safety measure would affect user engagement or the \u2018stickiness\u2019 of the platform \u2014trying to put the price tag on safety. Even more troubling, this control group, presumably intentionally, included minors.\u201d", 1, "2026-08-21T05:30:57Z", "2026-08-21T05:32:22Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-applauds-recent-hhs-crackdown-sex-rejecting-procedures-children", "Harshbarger Applauds Recent HHS Crackdown on Sex-Rejecting Procedures for Children", "2026-08-14", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) released the following statement praising a series of recent actions by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to protect children from sex-rejecting procedures, including a report exposing fraudulent billing practices that led to referrals of hospitals and clinics to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and HHS Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), and a new Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) rule ending federal Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) funding for these procedures.\n\n\u201cFamilies trust physicians with their children's care, and this week's revelations show that trust was betrayed in the worst possible way. HHS's report exposes an industry that turned vulnerable, healthy children into a cash cow business, using fraudulent diagnosis codes to bill nearly $120 million while inflicting permanent damage on children who deserved protection, not to be used for profit,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \u201cEvery child is a precious gift from God, made exactly as He intended, and no doctor, no hospital, and no insurance company has the right to convince a child otherwise in order to add to their bottom line. I am grateful CMS is finally cutting off every taxpayer dollar that funded this abuse, and I will not rest until Congress passes my STOP Act and TRUTH in Coverage Act so this industry can never prey on another child again.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nHHS Report on Fraudulent Billing Practices\n\nA new HHS report titled \"Wolves in White Coats: How Doctors and Hospitals Pushed and Profited from the Fraud of 'Gender Medicine'\" found that financial incentives drove hospitals nationwide to treat physiologically healthy children as \"captive patients,\" billing nearly $120 million for sex-rejecting procedures on minors since 2019 and covering more than 5,500 surgeries and 8,500 courses of hormones or puberty blockers.\n\nThe report identified nearly $50 million in insurance claims for puberty blockers billed using vague or inaccurate endocrine disorder diagnosis codes instead of an accurate diagnosis, and nearly $11 million in claims for patients ages 13-17 billed under a precocious puberty diagnosis that does not typically apply at that age. In a separate case cited in the report, Texas Children's Hospital previously paid a $10 million settlement with the Texas Attorney General and the U.S. Department of Justice to resolve fraud allegations involving false diagnosis codes used to bill Medicaid for these procedures, agreeing as part of that settlement to establish the nation's first Detransition Clinic to provide free care for patients recovering from these interventions.\n\nThe report also found that the Biden administration actively promoted and expanded access to these procedures through executive orders, HHS civil rights guidance, CMS insurance mandates, and federal employee health benefits, pressuring hospitals and insurers to cover them for minors.\n\nFollowing the report's release, Vice President JD Vance, as chairman of the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. referred hospitals and clinics identified in the report to the DOJ and the HHS-OIG, respectively, for possible violations of federal law.\n\nCMS Rule Ending Medicaid and CHIP Funding\n\nSeparately, CMS finalized a rule this week ending federal Medicaid and CHIP funding for sex-rejecting procedures on children and youth. The rule takes effect Oct. 13, 2026, allows a tapering-off period of up to six months for children currently on hormone therapy, and does not affect coverage of mental health services.\n\nHarshbarger\u2019s Efforts to Protect Children from Sex-Rejecting Procedures\n\nIn April, Harshbarger introduced theSafeguarding the Overall Protection of Minors (STOP) Actalongside Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS). The bill bans gender transition procedures on minors, imposes civil penalties of at least $100,000 per violation collectible by the Attorney General, and creates a private right of action allowing victims or their families to sue for damages in federal court. It also establishes the Victims of Gender Transition Procedures Compensation Fund in the U.S. Treasury to support those recovering from these procedures, funded by civil penalties collected from offenders.\n\nIn July, Harshbarger introduced the Treatment and Restoration Uniformity and Transparency in Health Coverage (TRUTH in Coverage) Act. The bill requires health insurance plans that cover sex-rejecting procedures to also cover restorative care for patients who suffer complications, adverse outcomes, or seek to restore healthy bodily function, applying the same coverage terms, deductibles, and cost-sharing rules to both.\n\nIn December 2025, Harshbarger joined HHS Secretary Kennedy, CMS Administrator Dr. Oz, and other senior HHS officials for a press conference announcing federal actions to protect children from sex-rejecting procedures, including a declaration that these interventions do not meet professionally recognized standards of care and proposed CMS rules restricting Medicare and Medicaid coverage of them.", 1, "2026-08-15T05:23:20Z", "2026-08-15T05:24:50Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/08/13/icymi-hagerty-joins-fox-news-sunday-on-fox-news-channel-to-discuss-iran-senate-recess/", "ICYMI\u2014Hagerty Joins Fox News Sunday\u00a0on Fox News Channel to Discuss Iran, Senate Recess", "2026-08-13", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "Washington\u2014On Sunday, United States Senator Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined Fox News Sunday on Fox News Channel to discuss the latest in Iran and the Senate\u2019s agenda following the August Recess.\n\n*Click the photo above or here to watch*\n\nPartial Transcript\n\nHagerty on Iran: Diplomacy is being tested at every turn of the Iranian regime. They don\u2019t seem to favor diplomacy unless they can use it to tap us along. [President Donald Trump] has seen right through this. We have maintained maximum military capabilities. In fact, he has enhanced our military capability. And what you see now is an act of desperation because President Trump had prepared to unleash unmitigated fury on Iran, just the past weekend, when they came to the table again and said, \u201cNo, we want to make a deal.\u201d And let\u2019s not forget that [Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent] and the team at Treasury have put incredible financial pressure on Iran. Their economy is in tatters right now. They are doing the same thing over and over again. I know people call that the definition of insanity; I think that\u2019s diplomacy Iranian-style, coming back with more of the same demands, et cetera, et cetera. But what has happened is that they continue to degrade in their position; we continue to advance in terms of economic pressure, military pressure.\n\nHagerty on a pending peace deal in Iran: There is going to have to be a deal. I think the American public is indicating it\u2019s ready for a deal to be done, and that deal could be at the end of a military operation as opposed to diplomacy. It\u2019s up to the Iranians, but I think we\u2019re very close, particularly as I listen to Secretary Bessent\u2026 I think the [Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)], the Iran deal that we saw in [former President Barack Obama\u2019s administration], demonstrated that you can\u2019t trust the Iranians. Everything that we agree to is going to have to be verifiable and enforceable. President Trump has already seen this movie before. Obama just handed over pallets of cash\u2014billions of dollars\u2014and instead of abiding by the agreement, [Iran] continued their nuclear program, surreptitiously, and they then began to foment terror. That will not happen again. I think President Trump has been incredibly clear about this, and what we\u2019re trying to do is maintain a posture that we can allow the Iranian economy to rebuild, the 90 million Iranian people to prosper.\n\nHagerty on other Middle Eastern countries joining the Abraham Accords: I think the entire region has responded to this\u2026 Iran has, on a 360-degree basis, made enemies of everybody in its neighborhood. Now, we\u2019re all coming together. I expect to see more\u2014Saudi Arabia, for example\u2014and more nations in the region step up and enter the Abraham Accords. We are going to see economic prosperity break out like we\u2019ve never seen before in that region, further isolating the Iranian regime. I think it\u2019s just all part and parcel of a major transformation that needed to happen 47 years ago. And finally, President Trump has been able to step up and address it right now.\n\nHagerty on Iran\u2019s alliance with Russia and China: I think a lot of people are looking toward the [U.S.\u2013China bilateral meeting in Washington, D.C.] in September, and I think there is much that will come from it. But I think President Trump has been increasingly clear with [Chinese President Xi Jinping] that [China] should not cooperate nor support in any way the Iranian regime\u2026 What we are going to continue to do is mount increasing pressure on the Iranian regime directly. And we are going to increase sanctions; that\u2019s exactly what Secretary Bessent has done. And if you look at what we did in the Senate, [the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026 placed] more pressure on this \u201cAxis of Evil\u201d that was just described. We are going to continue with sanctions; we are going to continue with military pressure. I think that everybody in the world needs to wake up and see this. That\u2019s all the more reason why this escalation with Iran must be successful. I think it\u2019s going to be incredibly important, not only for the Iranian situation, but also for others in the neighborhood, if you will\u2014Russia, Iran, North Korea, China\u2014they all need to see this.\n\nHagerty on Senate Democrats\u2019 opposition to President Trump\u2019s agenda: The only two things the [Senate Democrats] have accomplished since [President Trump] came into office, in the past year and a half, almost two years\u2026 are two historically long government shutdowns. In fact, that was on tap this week. That\u2019s why we worked so hard to make certain that we got a continuing resolution [to] keep the government open beyond the election and into December. That was [Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY)]\u2019s primary goal, to shut the government down to create more chaos. That seems to be the Democrat playbook\u2026 create chaos and mayhem, and in so doing, somehow get their friends in the media to blame that on the Republicans.\n\nHagerty on the Senate\u2019s schedule: I think the task is on us now. We got a lot accomplished in terms of legislation that put [U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche] in place, the Russia Sanctions Act that I mentioned just a moment ago, and again, extending the government\u2014keeping it open. When we get back, though, we are going to have to do something on election integrity. We tried again this week to get that done. Democrats again, every single one of them, even on something as simple as driver\u2019s license IDs, showing your ID to vote\u2026 they were against it full force. I think they\u2019ve made it clear. They want the ability to have insecure elections because that somehow advantages them. The American public hates this; we have got to do something about it. I think we\u2019re going to have to move into a different type of vehicle or reconciliation vehicle to make that happen. And that\u2019s what we are going to have on top of the agenda when we get back.", 1, "2026-08-14T06:13:05Z", "2026-08-14T06:14:08Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/08/06/hagerty-introduces-bill-to-end-housing-welfare-for-illegal-aliens/", "Hagerty Introduces Bill to End Housing Welfare for Illegal Aliens", "2026-08-06", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "Democrats have aided and abetted illegal aliens\u2019 exploitation of federal housing benefits\n\nWASHINGTON\u2014On Wednesday, Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, introduced the End Housing Welfare for Illegal Aliens Act, a bill aimed at barring ineligible non-citizens from abusing federal housing programs at the expense of American taxpayers.\n\nIllegal aliens have long exploited federal housing programs by taking advantage of gaps in existing law, such as the \u201cmixed-status\u201d loophole that allows for non-citizens to improperly receive benefits if they are roommates in the same household as citizens.\n\nDemocrats have facilitated such abuse for political gain, because overrunning sanctuary cities with illegal aliens artificially boosts their party\u2019s power and representation when congressional districts are reapportioned.\n\nThese abuses crowd out vulnerable Americans\u2014including the elderly and the disabled\u2014waste taxpayer dollars, and endanger the integrity of the electoral process.\n\nThe End Housing Welfare for Illegal Aliens Act would:\n\nDeny Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) grants to sanctuary cities\n\nEnd illegal alien eligibility for Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs designated for American seniors and persons with disabilities\n\nRequire public housing authorities to affirmatively verify citizenship before providing services\n\nCodify HUD rulemaking to permanently close the \u201cmixed-status\u201d loophole, which allows illegals who are roommates with eligible individuals to reap the benefits of taxpayer-funded housing. Under the Trump Administration, HUD has estimated that approximately 24,000 illegal aliens, ineligibles, and fraudsters in 20,000 of these \u201cmixed-status households\u201d benefit from HUD assistance\n\n\u201cFor too long, Democrats have encouraged illegal aliens to raid taxpayer-funded housing programs while American families, seniors, and people with disabilities are left waiting in line,\u201d said Hagerty. \u201cMy legislation, the End Housing Welfare for Illegal Aliens Act, advances the Trump Administration\u2019s reform agenda by ending this disgraceful abuse, shutting down sanctuary city handouts, closing the outrageous \u2018mixed-status\u2019 loophole, and putting American citizens first.\u201d\n\nFind the full text of the bill here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-07T06:11:19Z", "2026-08-07T06:12:42Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-blumenthal-celebrate-commerce-committee-passage-of-bipartisan-kids-online-safety-act", "Blackburn & Blumenthal Celebrate Commerce Committee Passage of Bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act", "2026-08-05", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released the following statement on the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, & Transportation\u2019s passage of the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) by voice vote:\n\n\u201cFor years, heartbroken parents have demanded Congress take action to protect America\u2019s children from Big Tech\u2019s exploitation, and today is a major victory for the courageous families who refused to give up,\u201d said Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal. \u201cThe Senate has repeatedly shown that there is broad, bipartisan support for a version of KOSA that creates a duty of care to protect kids from online predators, addictive algorithms, and harmful product design. We want to thank our large, diverse, and determined coalition for standing with us today, and we look forward to getting this bill to the President\u2019s desk.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nSenators Blackburn and Blumenthal first introduced KOSA in February 2022, following reporting by the Wall Street Journal and after spearheading a series of five subcommittee hearings with social media companies and advocates on the repeated failures by tech giants to protect kids on their platforms.\n\nThe Senate version of KOSA would require platforms to enable the strongest privacy settings by default, force platforms to prevent and mitigate specific dangers to minors, provide parents and educators new controls to help protect children, and require independent audits and research into social media companies.", 1, "2026-08-06T07:37:31Z", "2026-08-06T07:38:34Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/08/05/hagerty-colleagues-introduce-the-blocking-large-scale-adversarial-distillation-efforts-blade-act/", "Hagerty, Colleagues Introduce the Blocking Large-Scale Adversarial Distillation Efforts (BLADE) Act", "2026-08-05", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "The unauthorized use of American AI models by foreign adversaries is a threat to both economic and national security\n\nWASHINGTON\u2014Today, Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), along with Senate Banking Chairman Tim Scott (R-SC), Sen. Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking Subcommittee on National Security and International Trade and Finance, and Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), introduced the Blocking Large-Scale Adversarial Distillation Efforts (BLADE) Act of 2026, a bipartisan bill to deter malign foreign actors from stealing the proprietary capabilities of America\u2019s frontier AI companies.\n\nRecent news reports have detailed the large-scale use of \u201cmodel extraction attacks\u201d by Chinese entities to distill the unique competitive advantages of America\u2019s top AI models. Such foreign model extraction attacks\u2014which typically circumvent technical controls, use fraudulent or unauthorized credentials, and violate terms of use in order to harvest proprietary capabilities from U.S. models without the owner\u2019s permission\u2014evade U.S. export controls and threaten U.S. economic security and national security.\n\nTo deter unauthorized and illicit foreign model extraction attacks, the BLADE Act would direct the Executive Branch to identify and publicly expose foreign entities behind these malign activities, coordinate with industry to improve detection, and authorize the imposition of Commerce Department export controls and Treasury Department financial sanctions against these foreign entities.\n\n\u201cAs the United States must remain at the forefront of competitiveness in artificial intelligence, we cannot allow our adversaries to steal the intellectual property of America\u2019s top AI companies and thereby threaten U.S. national security and economic security,\u201d said Hagerty. \u201cThe BLADE Act will expose and punish foreign entities that conduct hostile distillation campaigns against our frontier AI companies. Our nation must counter malign actors who seek to subvert our nation\u2019s leadership and innovation in artificial intelligence.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe BLADE Act safeguards both our competitive edge against China and our national security at the same time. As we continue to set the global standard for innovation and unlock new opportunity through AI, it\u2019s critical we have these tools to deter direct attacks on U.S. AI models and maintain as large a lead as possible over our competitors and adversaries,\u201d said Kim.\n\n\u201cFrom startups in South Carolina to companies across the country, American innovators are building the technologies that will shape the future, and the Chinese Communist Party and other foreign adversaries should not be allowed to steal that work. Industrial-scale distillation attacks are unacceptable, and the BLADE Act gives the Commerce Department the tools to expose and punish bad actors targeting American AI models, protect our national security, and keep America ahead in the global AI race. I\u2019m proud to join Senators Hagerty and Kim in defending American ingenuity and holding our adversaries accountable,\u201d said Scott.\n\n\u201cAs America\u2019s AI technologies become more advanced, we face new threats from China and other foreign adversaries trying to reproduce them,\u201d said Cortez Masto. \u201cWe cannot allow the Chinese Communist Party to steal our companies\u2019 hard work and innovation. America can and will remain dominant in the race to develop cutting-edge AI technologies.\u201d\n\nFind the full text of the bill here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-06T07:37:31Z", "2026-08-06T07:38:34Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-leads-colleagues-in-introducing-bill-to-permanently-restore-biological-sex-standard-in-title-ix", "Blackburn Leads Colleagues in Introducing Bill to Permanently Restore Biological Sex Standard in Title IX", "2026-08-04", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Jim Justice(R-W.Va.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) introduced the Title IX Clarification Act, which would ensure Title IX anti-discrimination requirements tied to federal education funding are based on biological sex and not \u201csexual orientation or gender identity:\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Biden administration weaponized Title IX to force women to compete with men in sports and allow men to invade women\u2019s spaces,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cThankfully, President Trump restored common sense in Title IX, and now Congress must codify these protections for women into law to prevent future abuse. The Title IX Clarification Act would ensure that common sense, not leftist ideology, governs federal education funding tied to Title IX requirements to protect young women.\u201d\n\n\u201cPresident Trump has taken decisive action through executive orders to protect young women on campuses across the country. Now, we must ensure these protections are codified into federal law,\u201d said Senator Britt. \u201cWe saw the Biden-Harris Administration cave to the woke mob and allow Title IX to be abused in ways that permitted biological men to infringe on girls\u2019 sports and spaces. We cannot let that happen again, and this legislation will restore regulatory clarity to ensure it does not.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019ve been blessed to spend many years coaching young ladies in West Virginia, and I can tell you this: they work their tails off and earn every opportunity they get. At the end of the day, they deserve a fair shot. That\u2019s exactly what the Title IX Clarification Act is about. It puts common sense back into the law, protects the opportunities Title IX was meant to guarantee, and stands up for our girls and young women. Fighting for our female athletes is a fight I\u2019ll take every single day,\u201d said Senator Justice.\n\n\u201cWe cannot allow the radical left\u2019s campaign to succeed in undermining Title IX protections. While far too many activists refuse to acknowledge the differences between biological men and women, I am proud to join Senator Blackburn and my colleagues in this common-sense effort to ensure women and girls continue to receive equal access to educational opportunities,\u201d said Senator Budd.\n\n\u201cEven after Idaho\u2019s historic win to keep men out of women\u2019s sports at the U.S. Supreme Court, the rights promised in Title IX remain under threat,\u201d said Senator Risch. \u201cThe Title IX Clarification Act further guards these protections, clearly defining the biological differences between men and women, so that generations of young girls can continue participating in sports and other educational opportunities on a level playing field.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe original intent of Title IX was to protect women\u2019s educational and athletic opportunities,\u201d said Senator Crapo. \u201cIn a recent decision on Idaho\u2019s first-in-the-nation law to ensure these opportunities do not go to biological males, the Supreme Court of the United States correctly ruled Title IX allows states to apply a biology-based understanding of maintaining separate sports categories. The Title IX Clarification Act preserves the existing framework of the law while making clear its protections are based on the biological definition of sex.\u201d\n\n\u201cTitle IX exists for a simple, obvious reason: women deserve their own spaces and proper protection under the law. That has been clear for all of human history, and we only need to clarify it now because of Democrats\u2019 radical gender ideology,\u201d said Senator Scott. \u201cI\u2019m grateful my daughters had Title IX protection; we shouldn\u2019t make it meaningless to appease the radical left. I\u2019m proud to join Senator Blackburn on this commonsense bill.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe need to protect fairness and opportunity for women. For 50 years, Title IX has leveled the playing field. Democrats continuously undermine these protections in their attempts to redefine biology. The Title IX Clarification Act would clearly define an individual\u2019s sex is based solely on biology. President Trump reaffirmed this commonsense reality by executive order and now Congress must codify these protections. Passing this bill would keep men out of women\u2019s sports, restrooms, and locker rooms,\u201dsaid Senator Ricketts.\n\n\u201cThe left is weaponizing their radical gender ideology to undermine Title IX, which goes against its entire purpose: to protect women and girls. It\u2019s critical we codify President Trump\u2019s Title IX protections and match biological reality rather than the left\u2019s dangerous gender identity beliefs. I\u2019m proud to work alongside Senator Blackburn to protect women\u2019s sports and set the record straight,\u201d said Senator Daines.\n\n\u201cBoys are boys, and girls are girls - it\u2019s common sense. Title IX was created to protect women and girls, and that\u2019s exactly what this bill does by making clear that federal law is rooted in biological reality - not political ideology. We owe it to current and future generations to ensure opportunities under Title IX are protected,\u201d said Senator Sheehy.\n\nHouse Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (R-Texas) led introduction of companion legislation in the House of Representatives. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) also co-sponsored this legislation.\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nFor more than 50 years, Title IX has protected equal educational opportunities by prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex. In recent years, however, woke ideology has sought to redefine the law beyond Congress\u2019 original intent, creating uncertainty for schools and undermining protections for women and girls.\n\nAt the beginning of his second term, President Trump revoked a Biden-era Executive Order that directed the U.S. Secretary of Education to interpret Title IX anti-discrimination language \u201con the basis of sex\u201d to cover \u201cdiscrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.\u201d\n\nTITLE IX CLARIFICATION ACT\n\nThe Title IX Clarification Act would clarify that the term \u201csex\u201d refers only to an individual's biologically determined status as male or female where Title IX prohibits discrimination based on sex in education programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance.\n\nSpecifically, this legislation would:\n\nRestore Title IX's original meaning by affirming Congress\u2019 original intent to protect women's educational opportunities;\n\nAddress concerns raised by the Supreme Court during the January 2026 oral arguments regarding transgender participation in women's sports. During those arguments, Justice Neil Gorsuch noted that Congress has not clearly defined Title IX's requirements for states accepting federal funds and suggested that any departure from the historical understanding of \"sex\" as biological sex raises Spending Clause concerns unless Congress acts explicitly; and\n\nEstablish clear statutory definitions of \"male\" and \"female\" within Title IX, eliminating ambiguity and preventing taxpayer dollars from being used to support ideological redefinitions of sex.\n\nClick here for bill text.\n\nENDORSEMENTS\n\nThis legislation is supported by the Family Research Council (FRC); Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF); American Principles Project (APP); Family Policy Alliance (FPA); Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee (CWALAC); and Heritage Action.", 1, "2026-08-05T07:37:37Z", "2026-08-05T07:38:44Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-statement-on-senate-judiciary-committee-advancing-todd-blanche-nomination-for-u-s-attorney-general", "Blackburn Statement on Senate Judiciary Committee Advancing Todd Blanche Nomination for U.S. Attorney General", "2026-08-04", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after voting in the Senate Judiciary Committee to advance President Trump\u2019s nomination of Todd Blanche to serve as U.S. Attorney General:\n\n\u201cAs Acting Attorney General, Todd Blanche has already proven he will hold fraudsters accountable for stealing billions of taxpayer dollars, crack down on violent crime in cities like Memphis, and restore a one-tiered system of justice after four years of the Biden DOJ\u2019s corruption under Merrick Garland,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cThe American people sent President Trump back to the White House to return the DOJ to its core mission of enforcing the rule of law, and I am confident Todd Blanche will continue to deliver on that mandate once he is confirmed as Attorney General.\u201d\n\nRELATED", 1, "2026-08-05T07:37:37Z", "2026-08-05T07:38:44Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/08/04/icymi-hagerty-joinsmornings-with-maria-on-fox-business-to-discuss-save-america-act-clarity-act-and-arctic-frost-investigation/", "ICYMI\u2014Hagerty JoinsMornings With Maria\u00a0on Fox Business to Discuss SAVE America Act, Clarity Act and Arctic Frost Investigation", "2026-08-04", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "Washington\u2014Today, United States Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined Mornings With Maria on Fox Business to discuss the week ahead in the Senate, including the SAVE America Act, the Clarity Act and the Arctic Frost Investigation.\n\n*Click the photo above or here to watch*\n\nPartial Transcript\n\nHagerty on the SAVE America Act: I just got back from Tennessee over the past weekend, and Americans want to see us pass this act. They want election integrity, and this is not a partisan issue. Every American\u2014this is an 80% plus issue\u2014they want to see it get done. I think we\u2019re going to have to find a way to do it. I understand the reluctance of some of my colleagues because this budget reconciliation process opens up an unlimited amendment process where the [Senate Democrats] will have us voting against Santa Claus, against Christmas, against apple pie\u2014you name it. [Senate Republicans] are going to have to lock our arms and stand strong, take the tough votes, and get our way through this. But I think it would be very, very challenging for us to go back to our constituents and tell them that we didn\u2019t give it our very best to get this done.\n\nHagerty on the Arctic Frost Investigation: I want to find out what happened. It\u2019s unbelievable. I\u2019ve been a Verizon customer for decades. What happened was Verizon decided to violate the Constitution. I\u2019m a sitting United States Senator, but because I\u2019m a Republican\u2014I presume\u2014they were more than willing to cooperate with [Former President Joe Biden] and [Special Counsel Jack Smith] in the midst of an unconstitutional search of our records. AT&T blocked it; they wouldn\u2019t do it because they knew it was against the Constitution. Verizon decided to move right ahead with it. Their chief executive officer and their chief legal officer have dodged every question. Even the chief legal officer decided to skip her hearing on this topic. We need to put both of them under oath and ask them some tough questions\u2026 Verizon was looking at a $20 billion acquisition of [Frontier Communications]. That was in the pipeline. Did they feel like they had to engender some sort of favor with the [Biden administration Department of Justice (DOJ)] so they\u2019d get that approved? \u2026 Corporate America has got to realize that they\u2019re going to be held to account when they engage in this sort of partisan political activity at the expense of their customers.\n\nHagerty on Verizon and the weaponization of the Biden Department of Justice (DOJ): It\u2019s hard to say what [Special Counsel Jack Smith] was looking for, but he wanted a massive witch hunt. And it seemed that it only turned on whether you\u2019re Republican or not. And it may only turn on whether you\u2019re an ally or a friend of this current sitting president. Again, his enemy clearly was [President Donald Trump]. Those of us that were his allies were the ones that he felt like he had an open hunting license to go out and pursue anything and everything that he might to try to turn on us, to try to make our lives uncomfortable. And the fact that you had a company like Verizon colluding with Jack Smith, colluding with the Biden DOJ, and handing over Republicans\u2019 records. Again, let\u2019s find out why. Was it to curry favor? Was it to get a $20 billion acquisition through? Was it to get an appointment for the chief legal officer in the Biden administration?\n\nHagerty on holding Verizon accountable: We don\u2019t know the answers to these questions. That\u2019s why we need to put them under oath. That\u2019s why they need to stop obfuscating. I made a formal complaint to them. They have until Aug. 11 to answer these questions, let\u2019s see if they do\u2026 They\u2019ve done everything they can to dodge and obfuscate. So we\u2019re going to keep pressing. And now that I\u2019ve got [Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-IA,] and [Sen. Ron Johnson, R-WI,] on my side to press this, we have the full weight of the [Senate Judiciary Committee]. I think we have oversight powers now. We\u2019ll bring them in; we\u2019ll haul them in.\n\nHagerty on the CLARITY Act: We\u2019re going to have to pass the CLARITY Act. There\u2019s no way that we can allow the United States to fall behind in the digital assets arena. Everything is moving digital around the world. The GENIUS Act was a major step forward to make certain that the digital dollar remains dominant in the world. But we need to follow it up with the remainder of the market. I think the problem is, will we be able to pass this with Democrats right now? Or are they going to let midterm politics get in the way? I think we should just put it to a vote on the floor of the United States Senate and find out where the Democrats stand.", 1, "2026-08-05T07:37:37Z", "2026-08-05T07:38:44Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/08/03/icymi-hagerty-joins-kudlow-on-fox-business-to-discuss-spain-iran-and-community-reinvestment-act-reforms/", "ICYMI\u2014Hagerty Joins Kudlow\u00a0on Fox Business to Discuss Spain, Iran and Community Reinvestment Act Reforms", "2026-08-03", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "Washington\u2014On Friday, United States Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined Kudlow on Fox Business to discuss Spain\u2019s immigration crisis, the latest in Iran and the Trump Administration\u2019s proposed reform of the Community Reinvestment Act.\n\n*Click the photo above or here to watch*\n\nPartial Transcript\n\nHagerty on Spain\u2019s immigration crisis: I think it is precisely what the president is warning against, and it\u2019s a preview of what could happen if the Democratic Socialists of America are able to get in charge. If you think about it, the Socialist Workers Party in Spain, a leftist, socialist organization, is taking control of that country. This is what you get\u2026 It\u2019s an invitation to these people to overrun their country. I think all of Europe should be on alarm. Again, this is a preview of what could happen right here in America. We already saw [President Joe Biden] try it before. Thank God [President Donald Trump] came into office and has put a complete stop to this. It\u2019s out of the news right now, but this could happen again. It\u2019s a preview and it\u2019s a wakeup call to all of us, and I think as we head into the midterm elections, to remember what the Democrat socialists can do\u2014it\u2019s happening right now in Europe.\n\nHagerty on Iran: Much to Washington\u2019s shock, President Trump has been very good about not telegraphing his every move. But I\u2019ll say this, [Commander of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) Admiral Brad Cooper] had completed roughly 75 to 80% of the target package that initially was set to deal with Iran. He stepped back from that when we went into negotiations, into the ceasefire to deal with the straight before moves. I think the time has come. Go back, finish the package, finish the job. I think this is what the American public needs to see. As soon as this happens, I\u2019ll tell you this. The polling data that [Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.] and the Democrats are thrilled about right now, because Americans don\u2019t like to see this sort of unclear situation. Once we have clearly defined this and ended this, this whole bit in Iran, we\u2019ve taken the [Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)] and put them where they belong\u2026 I think you\u2019re going to see the president\u2019s poll numbers; you\u2019re going to see joy back in America again. Americans love a winner; Americans love to win. We can do that, and I think the time has come to deliver on it [\u2026] our Israeli partners, they have exquisite intelligence and capabilities on the ground there. You saw what they did with the supply chains when every one of Hezbollah\u2019s leaders had their fingers and thumbs blown off. I think the Israeli Military possesses incredible covert capabilities\u2026 I think we should put every option on the table\u2026 Let\u2019s execute the alternatives.\n\nHagerty on the Trump Administration\u2019s proposed reform of the Community Reinvestment Act: I\u2019m glad to see the Trump Administration doing as they have been and going in and taking a very hard look at this regulatory regime. This is a tool that has been misused. I\u2019m certain this was not the original intent, but this has basically been a tool used to shake down any bank or financial institution that wants to merge or expand into a given market, and they get shaken down by liberal regulators and those that want to control them to write checks to support efforts, particularly liberal efforts. That just shouldn\u2019t be the case. That\u2019s coming to an end, again, thanks to the Trump Administration, and thanks to strong leadership on the economic front led by [U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessett], and the new comptroller. I\u2019m very pleased with where we are headed.", 1, "2026-08-04T07:35:49Z", "2026-08-04T07:37:27Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/08/03/icymi-hagerty-joinsthe-sunday-briefing-on-fox-news-to-discuss-iran-blanche-confirmation-and-the-save-america-act/", "ICYMI\u2014Hagerty JoinsThe Sunday Briefing\u00a0on Fox News to Discuss Iran, Blanche Confirmation and the SAVE America Act", "2026-08-03", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "Washington\u2014On Sunday, United States Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined The Sunday Briefing on Fox News to discuss the latest in Iran, Todd Blanche\u2019s pending confirmation and the SAVE America Act.\n\n*Click the photo above or here to watch*\n\nPartial Transcript\n\nHagerty on Iran: We continue to maintain the strategic advantage and Iran\u2019s strategic capabilities continue to be degraded. If you think about it from a military standpoint, now we have other neighbors in the region joining us, dealing militarily with Iran. That [should be] quite concerning to the Iranian regime. The other aspect of this is the fact that the economic sanctions that [U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent] and his team at Treasury have been imposing are having a dramatic effect on the Iranian economy. The question is, how much more can they take? Their economy is shut off; their economy is shut down. The military componentry has been devastated, and now we have other players in the region joining the United States to deal with Iran in a way that they\u2019ve never seen before. I\u2019m certainly optimistic that President Trump is going to make certain that at the end the goal is accomplished, that is no nuclear capability for Iran. I\u2019d like to see this done sooner than later, I think the rest of America would, too.\n\nHagerty on the Middle East\u2019s Maritime Defense Coalition against Iran: Iran would like to destabilize the entire region because they\u2019d like to control the entire region. And the fact is that neighbors [in the Middle East] are stepping up and realizing that they have a role to play here. They\u2019re going to be the most immediately impacted, and frankly, given Iran\u2019s military attacks on everybody in the neighborhood, that\u2019s become painfully clear. I welcome the fact that these nations are stepping up, that they\u2019re joining us, and I think this is going to be a regional solution to a problem that has been very specific for 47 years. It\u2019s time to bring it to an end, and I think we get there much more rapidly with allies like Saudi Arabia and others stepping into the fray and working arm-in-arm and side-by-side with us. And again, I think the sooner we can put this to conclusion the better everybody will be in the world.\n\nHagerty on conflicting viewpoints regarding the conflict in Iran: The president takes advice from multiple sources. I\u2019m honored by the fact that he reaches out to me from time to time, but he is constantly absorbing information. He is constantly trying to deal with the situation on the ground. And I think what you have [Vice President J.D. Vance] doing is indicating there are considerations here that are very real. The president needs to hear all of those considerations. The one person that the president cannot fire is the other person that stood elected alongside [him], and that\u2019s Vice President Vance. I think Vice President Vance takes it seriously upon himself. He has told this to me, that he needs to sound out every concern that could possibly exist, and I think you see another example of it right here. At the end of the day though, I\u2019ll come back to this: We hold the strategic advantage. President Trump has been incredibly clear. He will not allow the Iranian regime to have nuclear capacity. And I think President Trump\u2019s patience is worn quite thin. So, with this current ceasefire, we\u2019re at the verge of being ready to unveil and unleash a tremendous amount of power on Iran. They need to pay attention to this, and they need to pay attention to the fact that other neighbors in the region are standing shoulder-to-shoulder with [the United States] right now. I think this [conflict] is going to come to an end very soon.\n\nHagerty on Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche\u2019s confirmation and the Anti-Weaponization Fund: I know [Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley, R- has been working hard to get both [Senator Tom Tillis, R-N.C.,] and [Senator John Cornyn, R-Texas,] to a place of comfort. But I also say this: I wholeheartedly disagree with the notion that this is something that\u2019s undeserved. The [Department of Justice (DOJ) during the Biden Administration] did attack many people. Several people on my staff were targeted and weaponized by the DOJ\u2026 The hurt and harm were very real\u2026 I\u2019m not looking for any compensation, but I do think that justice needs to be served here. And to say that there is nothing here to look at the weaponization fund is just evidence that something very, very bad did happen under the Biden DOJ. There should be accountability, however that takes form. I don\u2019t think that we need to just sweep this under the rug. I think there needs to be an acknowledgement. I\u2019m willing to accept Todd Blanche\u2019s word that this fund will not be put into motion. I think Todd Blanche is a very qualified nominee, I\u2019m looking forward to getting him confirmed.\n\nHagerty on the SAVE America Act: There are 50 [Senate Republicans] or more that are willing to push this through, but we need more Democrats to get to 60 votes if we\u2019re going to pass [the SAVE America Act] as it stands. What we\u2019re focused on right now is a reconciliation product. [Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C.,] was working on this before his untimely departure, bless his heart. But we are, again, working on a product that I think we can use the reconciliation process, which only requires a [simple] majority vote, which we can deliver. We are navigating that process right now. This is not an easy situation when you have every Democrat in the Senate opposed to any type of election integrity. I think it\u2019s quite embarrassing for the Democratic Party, and people should be asking why they\u2019re doing this\u2014What\u2019s their underlying motive? But at the same time, I\u2019m ready to stay here to get this done in whatever form it requires. We do have a vehicle that is under consideration right now that I think we can get significant elements of the SAVE America Act passed.", 1, "2026-08-04T07:35:49Z", "2026-08-04T07:37:27Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/07/31/icymi-hagerty-joins-varney-co-on-fox-business-to-discuss-iran-midterm-elections/", "ICYMI\u2014Hagerty Joins\u00a0Varney & Co.\u00a0on Fox Business to Discuss Iran, Midterm Elections", "2026-07-31", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "Washington\u2014On Thursday, United States Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined Varney & Co. on Fox Business to discuss the latest in Iran and the upcoming midterm elections.\n\n*Click the photo above or here to watch*\n\nPartial Transcript\n\nHagerty on Iran: I think [Commander of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) Admiral Brad Cooper] has done an excellent job of conveying to [President Donald Trump] his options. And if you think about it, we stopped the execution of the target package that Admiral Cooper was executing when we stepped back to negotiate a ceasefire and deal with the Strait of Hormuz. At that point in time, Brad Cooper was probably 75 to 80% of the way through the initial target package. The timeline that he\u2019s talking about, two-and-a-half, three weeks, is consistent with what it would take to complete that package. That\u2019s a package that includes human targets. It\u2019s going to be devastating to the Iranian regime. I think it\u2019s time to step up and do it. I\u2019m entirely in favor of it\u2026 [The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)] are the ones that are driving this. They live a different lifestyle than the rest of the military. They actually profit in times of war, and I think there\u2019s going to be a reckoning with the Iranian people over the terrible leadership that has been provided by the IRGC, the terrible decisions that they\u2019ve made. And they continue to make the wrong decision over and over again. It\u2019s the definition of insanity.\n\nHagerty on Senate Democrats\u2019 legislative blockade ahead of midterms: [Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.,] put us through the longest government shutdown in history, shutting down the Department of Homeland Security at a time when we were in major conflict with the major state sponsor of terror in the world. Knowing that the Iranian regime has put people into this country, he was willing to shut down Homeland Security. He just instructed his party to vote against the National Defense Authorization Bill. It seems that if you step back and listen to what Chuck Schumer says on the floor, that his irresponsibility actually bleeds into almost cheerleading for the Iranian regime. It\u2019s hard to believe\u2014I can\u2019t believe in my heart of hearts he believes that. But if you listen to what he says, it\u2019s hard to argue.\n\nHagerty on the rise of the radical left: As soon as people start listening to the platform of the Democratic Socialist Party\u2026Zohran Mamdani in New York City, [Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y.-14,], [Sen. Bernie Sanders, D-VT] . This Marxism, this socialism, this communism is not consistent with the American way. Certainly, that\u2019s clear in Tennessee, and I don\u2019t think they\u2019ll get any traction at all.\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-01T07:27:26Z", "2026-08-01T07:28:22Z"], ["https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/today-rep-van-epps-celebrates-the-anniversary-of-nasa-s-founding", "Today, Rep. Van Epps Celebrates the Anniversary of NASA\u2019s Founding", "2026-07-29", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Matt Van Epps", "V000139", "vanepps.house.gov", "vanepps", "https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Rep. Van Epps released the following message in celebration of NASA\u2019s founding. As a member of the Science, Space, and Technology Committee, Rep. Van Epps is focused on ensuring the United States remains at the forefront of innovation, particularly in space technology. With an abundance of commercial investments in NASA and the space industry, Tennessee is helping lead the space race. Currently, Tennessee has $224.2 million in economic output due to NASA contracts alone. There are 26 Tennessee suppliers that contribute to NASA\u2019s Artemis program, and more Tennessee companies support the Kennedy Space Center.\n\nImage\n\nWatch Rep. Van Epps\u2019 message by clicking above or here.\n\nOn July 29th, we celebrate the birthday of NASA, an agency that has embodied one of the most powerful qualities of the American spirit: the belief that there is always something greater ahead.\n\nFor generations, NASA has reminded us of what is possible when Americans come together with a common purpose. It represents the dreamers who looked up at the night sky and wondered what lay beyond, the engineers who turned impossible ideas into reality, and the astronauts who climbed into rockets knowing they were carrying the hopes and aspirations of an entire nation.\n\nWhen Americans first reached the Moon, we did more than plant a flag. We showed what a free people can accomplish when we refuse to accept the impossible.\n\nThat moment reflected something deeply woven into the American character. We are a nation of explorers. A nation of builders. A nation that has always looked beyond the horizon and asked, \u201cWhat\u2019s next?\u201d\n\nThe story of NASA is the story of American perseverance. It is found in every scientist working late to solve a problem, every student inspired to pursue a career in science and engineering, and every astronaut who looks back at our beautiful planet and sees the incredible nation we are blessed to call home.\n\nFrom the Moon landings to the discoveries of the Hubble Space Telescope, and from exploring Mars to the Artemis program preparing for humanity\u2019s return to the lunar surface, NASA has expanded our understanding of the universe and strengthened our belief in what America can achieve.\n\nAs we celebrate NASA\u2019s birthday, we remember the generations of Americans who made these achievements possible. We honor their courage, their creativity, and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of human knowledge.\n\nBut we also look forward. The next great discoveries are waiting. The next generation of explorers is ready. And the next chapter of America\u2019s story in space is still being written.\n\nBecause the spirit that carried us to the Moon is the same spirit that has carried our nation forward for nearly 250 years: a belief that tomorrow can be better than today, that challenges can be overcome, and that when Americans set our sights on a goal, there is no limit to what we can accomplish.\n\nHappy birthday to NASA. May we continue reaching higher, dreaming bigger, and taking one small step for mankind.", 1, "2026-07-30T07:32:48Z", "2026-07-30T07:34:08Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/blackburn-to-newsmax-senate-should-remain-until-save-america-act-passes", "Blackburn to Newsmax: Senate Should Remain Until SAVE America Act Passes", "2026-07-29", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) called on the Senate to remain in session until it passes the SAVE America Act during an appearance on Newsmax\u2019s Wake Up America. Last week, Senator Blackburn led her colleagues in taking to the Senate floor to urge the Senate to pass the bill following President Trump\u2019s address to the nation on election integrity. Watch the video Senator Blackburn released on her X account here.\n\nClick here to download Senator Blackburn\u2019s interview on Newsmax.\n\nClick here to watch the video Senator Blackburn posted on X.\n\nSen. Blackburn to Newsmax: Senate Should Remain Until SAVE America Act Passes\n\nBrian Freeman\n\nNewsmax\n\nSenate Republicans are prepared to remain in Washington as long as necessary to pass the SAVE America Act, backing President Donald Trump's call to delay the chamber's planned summer recess until election integrity legislation reaches his desk, Sen. Marsha Blackburn told Newsmax on Tuesday.\n\nThe Tennessee Republican said on ?Newsmax's \"Wake Up America\" that the GOP is willing to work weekends, split the legislation into smaller pieces, or pursue any other legislative strategy necessary to enact the bill, which would require proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote in federal elections.\n\n\"Whatever it takes, if it is staying here, if it's breaking the bill in pieces, doing pieces one at a time, whatever we need to do to make certain that we pass the SAVE Act is what we need to do,\" Blackburn said. \"We're all in on getting the SAVE Act passed.\"\n\nHer comments came after Trump urged Senate Republicans to remain in session until the legislation is approved, writing on Truth Social that Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., \"should not allow the United States Senate to leave town until it passes the SAVE America Act,\" while also renewing his call to eliminate the legislative filibuster if necessary.\n\nAlthough Thune has indicated there are not enough votes to abolish the filibuster, Blackburn dismissed suggestions that Republicans are wavering on the underlying legislation, arguing the conference remains united behind strengthening election security.\n\n\"No one has worked harder than President Trump to make certain that we exercise election integrity,\" she said. \"Those of us that comprise the steering committee, which is the conservatives in the Senate, have been saying for months, we will stay here weekends and until we can get this passed, because we know this is important.\"\n\nBlackburn said she has already begun advancing portions of the legislation individually after leading Senate Republicans last week in an effort to move forward with a voter identification provision.\n\nShe also highlighted legislation she has introduced that would encourage states to verify voter registration rolls against the federal Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) database, which contains information on individuals who are not U.S. citizens and are therefore ineligible to vote in federal elections.\n\nAccording to Blackburn, 26 states already compare their voter rolls against the federal database, while 24 do not. She said expanding that practice would strengthen election integrity nationwide.\n\nRELATED\n\nVIDEO: Blackburn Leads Colleagues in Urging Senate to Pass SAVE America Act Following President Trump\u2019s Address to the Nation\n\nVIDEO: Blackburn Asks Democrat Lawmakers Why They Fear SAVE America Act", 1, "2026-07-30T07:32:48Z", "2026-07-30T07:34:08Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/blackburn-leads-colleagues-in-introducing-legislation-to-keep-biological-men-out-of-the-daughters-of-the-american-revolution", "Blackburn Leads Colleagues in Introducing Legislation to Keep Biological Men Out of the Daughters of the American Revolution", "2026-07-28", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.),Mike Lee (R-Utah), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) introduced the Daughters of the American Revolution Membership Integrity Act, which would amend the Daughters of the American Revolution\u2019s (DAR) federal charter by adding a membership eligibility requirement to bar biological men from becoming members. The DAR has made headlines for adding a \u201cnon-discrimination\u201d clause that allows biological males to become members.\n\n\u201cThe Daughters of the American Revolution was founded by women for women, and its founders would be appalled that the organization is now allowing biological males to become members and undermine the legacy of real women who helped build our nation,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cThe Daughters of the American Revolution Membership Integrity Act would amend the DAR\u2019s federal charter to stop the organization from erasing biological reality and ensure it is reserved for the real daughters of the American Revolution.\u201d", 1, "2026-07-29T07:41:48Z", "2026-07-29T07:42:57Z"], ["https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-announces-mobile-office-hours-for-july-and-august", "Rep. Van Epps Announces Mobile Office Hours for July and August", "2026-07-24", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Matt Van Epps", "V000139", "vanepps.house.gov", "vanepps", "https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Franklin, TN \u2013 Rep. Van Epps\u2019 district team will hold mobile office hours in communities across Tennessee\u2019s 7th Congressional District throughout July and August. If you need assistance with a federal agency, our team will be available to help start a casework request and connect you with the appropriate federal resources.\n\nWhile Congressman Van Epps maintains district offices in Clarksville and Franklin, our team is committed to making constituent services accessible across the entire district. Through mobile office hours, staff members are able to meet Tennesseans closer to where they live and work, ensuring residents across TN-07 have direct access to assistance from their congressional office.\n\nIf you need help with a federal agency but are unable to attend one of the mobile office hour events listed below, please contact our office at (629) 223-6050 or visit our website here.\n\nRep. Van Epps said, \u201cFrom Montgomery County to Wayne County and from Benton County to Davidson County, I\u2019ve had the opportunity to meet incredible Tennesseans across our district. One of my top priorities in Congress has been building a team that is responsive, accessible, and committed to serving the people of TN-07. Whether you need help with the Department of Veterans Affairs, the IRS, passport services, or another federal agency, our office is here to help. It would be our honor to serve you.\u201d\n\nPlease come prepared to fill out a privacy release form, also found on the website here!\n\nThough Rep. Van Epps will not be at these mobile office hours, a member of his team will be!\n\nYou can listen to a message from Rep. Van Epps here.\n\nJuly\n\nWayne County\n\nDate: July 27, 2026\n\nTime: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM\n\nLocation: Wayne County Courthouse, 100 Court Circle, Waynesboro, TN 38485 (3rd Floor Conference Room)\n\nDecatur County\n\nDate: July 29, 2026\n\nTime: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM\n\nLocation: Decatur County Chamber of Commerce, Ayers Entrepreneur Center, Conference Room, 443 Virginia Ave. South, Parsons, TN 38363\n\nAugust\n\nWilliamson County\n\nDate: August 5, 2026\n\nTime: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM\n\nLocation: Fairview City Hall Conference Room, 7100 Center City Way, Fairview, TN, 37062\n\nCheatham County\n\nDate: August 17, 2026\n\nTime: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM\n\nLocation: Audrey Beck Meeting Hall, 420 North Main Street, Kingston Springs, 37082 TN\n\nRobertson County\n\nDate: August 17, 2026\n\nTime: 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM\n\nLocation: Greenbriar City Hall, 2414 US-41, Greenbrier, TN 37073\n\nDickson County\n\nDate: August 17, 2026\n\nTime: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM\n\nLocation: Dickson City Hall, 600 East Walnut Street, Dickson, TN 37055 (Mayor's Conference Room)\n\nHickman County", 1, "2026-07-25T07:13:44Z", "2026-07-25T07:15:09Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/07/24/icymi-hagerty-joins-fox-friends-on-fox-news-to-discuss-iran-and-the-save-america-act/", "ICYMI\u2014Hagerty Joins\u00a0Fox & Friends\u00a0on Fox News to Discuss Iran and the SAVE America Act", "2026-07-24", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "New York\u2014Today, United States Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined Fox & Friends on Fox News to discuss the latest developments in Iran and the SAVE America Act.\n\n*Click the photo above or here to watch*\n\nPartial Transcript\n\nHagerty on Iran and the Abraham Accords: I applaud [President Donald Trump] for bringing major allies in the region together. Iran is getting further and further isolated by a deal like this. And joining the Abraham Accords has been a long-term goal for President Trump. The fact that he has gotten Jared Kushner involved, his wonderful team, John Raider\u2014that team put together the Abraham Accords at a time when it was desperately needed. I think they should have gotten a Nobel Peace Prize for this. And by bringing more into the fold, particularly [Saudi Arabia], the largest economy [in the Middle East], I think this is a major step forward. We are talking about economy, we are talking about prosperity, and I think this sends a message for the entire region that we are ready to move forward [\u2026] We are not talking about enrichment programs at all. The [United Arab Emirates (UAE)], other partners of ours, are able to have a civil nuclear program. They report, they do not hide, they do not obfuscate. But I think this is something that we are going to work through the details on with Saudi Arabia. My sense is that President Trump\u2019s overarching goal is to bring them into an economic relationship that begets prosperity. I think the sooner we get this wrapped up, the sooner it is taken care of, the more the American public will come on board. I think the issue we have right now is the fact that [the conflict is] dragging out. And I don\u2019t fault those that are trying to negotiate trying to bring this together with terms that work because we are going to have to rebuild Iran. But at this point, I think the American public\u2019s sentiment, at least as I read the data, [is that] they just want this over with. And if you think about the activity there in the Middle East, [Commander of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) Admiral Brad Cooper], was about 75 to 80% of the way through the target package they initially set. [CENTCOM] stopped when they went to a ceasefire. They stopped that when they went to negotiate. I think [Admiral Cooper] is back on track to complete that target package, and that will put the Iranian situation in a much better negotiating position.\n\nHagerty on funding the Department of War (DOW): I think you have a lot of support for this. We have a reconciliation package working its way through. This is just an immediate fix [for funding the Department of War]. There is about $73 billion in that package to address the [Department of War], but we are talking about a $1.5 trillion package at a time when the military needs a significant rebuild. For four years, [the department was] distracted under [former President Joe Biden\u2019s administration], focusing on social engineering, not on lethality. And what the team has found as they have come in is a lot of opportunity to make us stronger. We\u2019ve demonstrated exquisite results\u2026 but we need to continue this momentum and make certain that we are ready to deal with all of the adversarial situations.\n\nHagerty on Budget Reconciliation and the SAVE America Act: I think what we need to do is actually put something in front of everybody, because if it\u2019s voter ID, this is an issue that over 95% of Republicans, and even on the Democrat side, over 70% of Democrats approve of. I don\u2019t know why every American does not want to support this. The mail-in balloting issue gets more complicated for some states that are more remote. I understand that issue, but I think that we take it in pieces.", 1, "2026-07-25T07:13:44Z", "2026-07-25T07:15:09Z"], ["https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ogles-introduces-bill-protect-surrogate-mothers-forced-abortions", "REP. OGLES INTRODUCES BILL TO PROTECT SURROGATE MOTHERS FROM FORCED ABORTIONS", "2026-07-23", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Andrew Ogles", "O000175", "ogles.house.gov", "ogles", "https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Andy Ogles (TN-05) introduced the Preventing Forced Abortions Act of 2026, legislation prohibiting federal courts from enforcing provisions in surrogacy contracts that require a surrogate mother to obtain an abortion. The bill would also prevent intended parents from withholding agreed-upon compensation when a surrogate mother refuses a request to abort the child she is carrying.\n\n\u201cNo woman should ever be forced to murder a child because of a provision buried in a contract,\u201d said Congressman Ogles. \u201cThe Preventing Forced Abortions Act ensures that federal courts cannot enforce these coercive clauses or allow intended parents to withhold promised compensation when a surrogate mother chooses life,\u201d Congressman Ogles said.\n\nHon. Marilyn Musgrave, Vice President of Government Affairs, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, said: \u201cWomen should never be forced or coerced into having an abortion. Yet, recent headlines reveal that this is still a tragic reality women face today. We applaud Rep. Ogles for reintroducing the Preventing Forced Abortions Act to protect women and babies in surrogacy arrangements. Studies have shown that pressure to undergo an abortion is associated with poorer mental health and emotional outcomes for women. Abortion coercion is wrong and this ought to be an area of bipartisan agreement.\n\nCarol Tobias, President of National Right to Life, said: \u201cNational Right to Life strongly supports Congressman Ogles\u2019 Preventing Forced Abortions Act. No contract should be used as a weapon to coerce a woman into an abortion or treat an unborn child as disposable.\u201d\n\nKelsey Reinhardt, President and CEO of CatholicVote, said:\n\n\u201cI want to thank Rep. Ogles for standing up for both women and the unborn. Every abortion treats the woman and child as a means to an end, violating her inherent dignity and exploits the woman for an agenda of death. Too often the abortion compounds injustice: many coerced cases involve domestic abuse, trafficking, economic threats, or authoritarian policies. The Catholic Church's social teaching prioritizes protecting the vulnerable from such manipulation. CatholicVote supports the Preventing Forced Abortions Act and encourages all Members of Congress to do the same.\u201d\n\nPenny Nance, CEO and President of Concerned Women for America, said:\n\n\u201cAbortion always ends the life of an innocent unborn child, and forced abortions in the context of surrogacy arrangements are no different. Surrogacy all too often places unborn children at risk of abortion when the baby is diagnosed with certain complications. Congress must pass Rep. Andy Ogles' Preventing Forced Abortions Act of 2026 to ensure that no child is subject to forced abortion when they aren\u2019t exactly what someone wanted. Children are not commodities to be controlled or products to be perfected; they are gifts from God intended to be treasured by one man and one woman in the covenant of marriage.\u201d\n\nCosponsors (5): Rep. Lauren Boebert [CO-04], Rep. Sheri Biggs [SC-03], Rep. Josh Brecheen [OK-02], Rep. Keith Self [TX-03], and Rep. Mary Miller [IL-15]\n\nSupporting Groups (5): Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, CatholicVote, National Right to Life Committee, Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee, Students For Life Action.\n\nRead More On Breitbart\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-24T07:30:11Z", "2026-07-24T07:31:13Z"], ["https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-speaks-at-sst-budget-hearing-on-revitalizing-american-scientific-research", "Rep. Van Epps Speaks at SST Budget Hearing on Revitalizing American Scientific Research", "2026-07-23", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Matt Van Epps", "V000139", "vanepps.house.gov", "vanepps", "https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.-Rep. Van Epps (TN-07) participated in a Science, Space, and Technology (SST) Committee hearing titled, \u201cUnleashing the Golden Age of Science: Examining the Priorities of the FY2027 Research and Technology Enterprise.\u201d\n\nWatch Rep. Van Epps' statement here.\n\nRead Rep. Van Epps\u2019 opening remarks here:\n\n\u201cThank you, Director Kratsios, for being here today. In March 2025, President Trump charted out a clear vision for scientific progress and technological innovation: to position America to maintain leadership in emerging technologies like AI, quantum, and nuclear; to revitalize American scientific research; and to ensure that the growth of science and technology stimulates \u2026economic growth.\n\nDirector Kratsios and OSTP have delivered by supporting these goals: the National AI Legislative Framework provided clear direction on how Congress should act to spur\u2026on AI innovation that serves Americans, and an executive order signed by the President last month to accelerate U.S. innovation in quantum technologies to strengthen our national security.\n\nOne year after executive orders on nuclear energy, we are seeing real-world results. The President\u2019s bold goal of three advanced test reactors achieving criticality before the Fourth of July was not only met but exceeded with four reactors achieving criticality. Just yesterday, Director Kratsios published a report establishing a blueprint for renewing American scientific leadership for the 21st century.\n\nAfter the Biden administration floundered to position America for technology leadership and energy dominance, we are seeing tangible results from the Trump administration, with OSTP providing critical support.\u201d\n\nRead Rep. Van Epps\u2019 questions here:\n\nRep. Van Epps asked, \u201c We must maintain the lead across the board when it comes to AI. Microsoft\u2019s AI for Good Lab found that DeepSeek\u2019s free, open-source models have driven AI adoption across the developing world. Recently, the Chinese company, Moonshot, released\u2026a new open-weight model that performs competitively with American frontier models. US companies are turning toward open-source and open-weight models as they are cheaper, customizable, and\u2026 have less guardrails.\n\nJust earlier this morning, the director of your team posted that Moonshot AI conducted large-scale covert distillation to develop their newest K3 model, and so a few questions here: How do we balance an open innovation ecosystem while protecting American technology from IP threat, and how is OSTP responding to the threat to American AI leadership posed by Chinese open source and open weight models?\u201d\n\nDirector of White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, Michael Kratsios replied, \u201cI think there's, for starters, an important distinction to be made between open source models and large scale industrial covert distillation of American models, and I think what was made public today was exactly that: the convert industrial distillation of\u2026American technology. The administration deeply believes that the future of American leadership in AI is contingent upon having a\u2026vibrant open and closed source set of models for Americans and the world to use. I think on the first or second page of the AI action plan the president released last year, we emphasized very strongly that the U.S. must lead in\u2026open source. So for us, we're doing everything we can to\u2026kind of push the open source community ahead in the U.S...and provide lots of alternatives for all of our entrepreneurs.\n\nRep. Van Epps asked, \u201cGreat, thanks, director. Modern research and AI model training runs on data, such as biological databases and materials data. American leadership in these fields depends on the quality and accessibility of that underlying data infrastructure. That's why I introduced the Web of Biological Data Act of 2026, which would establish a single point of entry for researchers to access high-quality biological data for use in research and development. Director, what\u2026role does access to high-quality data play in America's science and AI ecosystem, and how would a single point of entry for standardized data sets impact the pace of innovation?", 1, "2026-07-24T07:30:11Z", "2026-07-24T07:31:13Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/blackburn-sounds-the-alarm-on-communist-china-s-infiltration-of-american-judiciary", "Blackburn Sounds the Alarm on Communist China\u2019s Infiltration of American Judiciary", "2026-07-23", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "\u201cAccording to the national security organization State Armor, over the course of three decades, \u2018ELI\u2019s work has uniformly advanced Chinese strategic and national security interests while undermining American national security . . . and simultaneously pushing America toward dependence upon energy sources dominated by the PRC.\u2019 In 2018, that very same group launched its Climate Judiciary Project \u2018in coordination with the [Federal Judicial Center] . . . in response to demand from the judiciary for education about climate science.\u2019 While the stated goal was to provide \u2018neutral, objective information to the judiciary,\u2019 it\u2019s clear that ELI\u2019s goal was to \u2018make judges more receptive to climate litigation\u2019 and, even more troubling, \u2018target\u2019 judges in states \u2018where [climate] cases were being brought.\u2019 The substance of CJP\u2019s programming is equally as concerning. According to State Armor\u2019s report, CJP\u2019s materials instruct judges on how to \u2018frame\u2019 climate change matters and \u2018influence colleagues who may be \u201copposed to action on climate change.\u201d\u2019 The CJP programming also includes material that has little to do with standard continuing legal education content, including lesson plans on \u2018implicit bias\u2019 and \u2018Resistance to Change.\u2019 Critically, according to the report, the majority of CJP\u2019s materials were \u2018created by scholars who have called for liability for oil and gas companies,\u2019 including a scholar who has labeled the oil and gas industry as \u2018diabolical.\u2019\u201d\n\nELI Lesson Plans Steer Judges to Rule in Favor of Far-Left Climate Lobby, Threatening Judicial Independence", 1, "2026-07-24T07:30:11Z", "2026-07-24T07:31:13Z"], ["https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-secures-major-legislative-victories-in-fy27-ndaa-0", "Rep. Van Epps Secures Major Legislative Victories in FY27 NDAA", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Matt Van Epps", "V000139", "vanepps.house.gov", "vanepps", "https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Rep. Matt Van Epps (TN-07) released the following statement after four of his amendments were included in the House\u2019s version of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).\n\nHONOR Gold Star Families Act Amendment\n\nRep. Van Epps stated, \u201cI am proud that core provisions of my HONOR Gold Star Families Act made it into the FY27 NDAA. For the first time in nearly two decades, this legislation updates the military death gratuity by increasing the benefit for survivors from $100,000 to $165,000 and indexing future payments to inflation through a cost-of-living adjustment. This legislation will provide greater financial support to the families of fallen servicemembers who have sacrificed so much.\u201d\n\nRead more here.\n\nFort Campbell Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Amendment\n\nRep. Van Epps said, \u201cThe fact of the matter is that aging water and wastewater infrastructure has become a growing concern for readiness and quality of life. Much of Fort Campbell\u2019s utility system is more than 60 years old and requires significant maintenance and modernization to reduce the risk of service disruptions. Should a major disruption occur, it could affect everything from mission execution to the health of military families,\u201d he continued.\n\nHe said, \u201cFort Campbell isn\u2019t the only aging base. According to a 2024 CBO report, the four services have $50 billion in deferred maintenance on their bases, with the Army and Navy making up 70 percent of the backlog. Yet, despite the scale of the challenge, the Department of War (DOW) lacks a comprehensive assessment that identifies and prioritizes the military's most critical aging utility systems. That\u2019s why I am introducing this amendment today.\n\nMy amendment directs the DOW to evaluate the condition, costs, and operational impacts of these systems across all military installations. Once that is done, the Department of War will rank the highest-risk projects and provide recommendations for prioritizing future investments.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis data-driven roadmap for modernization will ensure installations like Fort Campbell receive appropriate attention before infrastructure failures degrade military readiness,\u201d he concluded.\n\nRead more about this amendment here and here.\n\nReport on Defense Prototype Transition to Program of Record Amendment\n\nRep. Van Epps said, \u201cMy amendment to accelerate the delivery of advanced technologies to our warfighters was also included in the NDAA. Too often, groundbreaking research and development from institutions like Vanderbilt University in my district or Tennessee\u2019s Oak Ridge National Lab take far too long to reach the battlefield. It doesn\u2019t help to have the best scientists, engineers, and innovators in the world, only to have their breakthrough discoveries stifled by bureaucracy. My amendment directs the DOW to identify and address the barriers that prevent successful prototype projects from transitioning into procurement and production. My hope is to get the best tools we have into our warfighters' hands faster. I hope this amendment will help do just that.\u201d\n\nRead more about this amendment here.\n\nDefense Contractor Maximum Production Plan Requirement Amendment\n\nRep. Van Epps stated, \u201cThis amendment will help ensure our nation can meet the demands of any future conflict. Recent events in Ukraine and Iran have shown how quickly modern conflicts consume artillery rounds, precision-guided munitions, air defense interceptors, and other critical systems. That is why I introduced an amendment requiring major defense contractors to outline how they would rapidly increase production capacity during a national emergency or major conflict. I am confident that this amendment will identify problematic bottlenecks, whether it be aging infrastructure or workforce shortages, that could keep us from being the most lethal fighting force on the planet.\u201d", 1, "2026-07-23T07:31:02Z", "2026-07-23T07:32:26Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/video-blackburn-blasts-democrats-war-on-ice-following-nyc-incendiary-device-attack", "VIDEO: Blackburn Blasts Democrats\u2019 War on ICE Following NYC Incendiary Device Attack", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "\u2018On Monday, we saw yet another example of what has become disturbingly common.\u2019\n\n\u2018Authorities believe the attack was motivated by the suspect\u2019s hatred of Immigration and Customs Enforcement.\u2019\n\n\u2018This attack did not come out of nowhere. It follows a months-long campaign by Democrats to demonize ICE.\u2019\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) delivered remarks on the Senate floor condemning the recent attack outside of a New York immigration court by a suspect who had anti-ICE material on him. In her remarks, Senator Blackburn called out her Democrat colleagues for demonizing federal law enforcement and praised Republicans for standing up for ICE and CBP by passing the Secure America Act.\n\nClick here to download Senator Blackburn\u2019s remarks.\n\nREMARKS AS PREPARED\n\n\u201cOn Monday, we saw yet another example of what has become disturbingly common: an act of far-left terrorism.\n\n\u201cOutside the Jacob K. Javits Federal Office Building, a man poured gasoline on the entrance, set it ablaze, and tossed fireworks into the raging flames.\n\n\u201cThankfully, law enforcement responded swiftly to apprehend the suspect, who was armed with two axes, a hammer, a machete, and three knives. But not before he injured four innocent people.\n\n\u201cAuthorities believe the attack was motivated by the suspect\u2019s hatred of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The federal building he targeted is home to New York\u2019s ICE field office and other Department of Homeland Security offices.\u201d\n\n\u201cBefore the attack, he allegedly pushed a cart with a sign reading, \u2018ICE Off Our Streets,\u2019 and made anti-ICE statements.\n\n\u201cThis attack did not come out of nowhere. It follows a months-long campaign by Democrats to demonize ICE and our brave federal law enforcement officers for simply doing their jobs.\u201d\n\n\u201cThey\u2019ve likened them to \u2018secret police,\u2019 the Nazi Gestapo, the Soviet KGB, and \u2018slave patrols.\u2019 They\u2019ve called them a \u2018a clear and present threat,\u2019 a \u2018reign of terror,\u2019 and \u2018nondescript thugs.\u2019 They\u2019ve accused them of \u2018mayhem and death,\u2019 \u201cterror and violence,\u2019 and \u2018scar[ing] the American public.\u2019\n\n\u201cThese are not statements from fringe figures. They\u2019re from prominent governors, senators, and lawmakers.\n\n\u201cThe vilification of federal law enforcement is now central to Democrats\u2019 identity and messaging.\n\n\u201cThey believe that by attacking our officers, they can get at President Trump. In reality, they are only putting a target on their backs.\u201d\n\n\u201cI have to admit that I was surprised when New York\u2019s far-left socialist mayor, Zohran Mamdani, called Monday\u2019s attack \u2018deeply disturbing.\u2019\n\n\u201cIn many ways, he has led the attack on ICE. He\u2019s called ICE a \u2018cruel agency that does nothing to further the interests of public safety\u2019 and \u2018too rotten to reform.\u2019 He claimed that they\u2019re \u2018terrorizing people\u2019 and should be abolished. He even signed an order to block ICE officers from arresting criminal illegal aliens in schools, shelters, and hospitals.\n\n\u201cWhile Democrats bow to their radical base, Republicans will continue to stand for the rule of law. Under President Trump\u2019s leadership, we have focused on ensuring our federal law enforcement agencies have all the resources they need to do their jobs.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s why we passed the Secure America Act, a landmark law that will fund ICE and CBP through the end of President Trump\u2019s second term.\n\n\u201cThat way, federal law enforcement officers can continue to track down the violent criminal illegal aliens that Joe Biden brought into our country.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s important to remember that every single Democrat voted against this law. Whenever they have the chance, they put illegal aliens over American citizens. They want to make illegal legal. They want to return to Biden\u2019s open border. But as long as Republicans are in charge, that will never happen.\u201d\n\nRELATED", 1, "2026-07-24T07:30:11Z", "2026-07-24T07:31:13Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-statement-fy27-appropriations", "Harshbarger Statement on FY27 Appropriations", "2026-07-21", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C \u2014 Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) today released the following statement after voting to pass H.R. 9770, the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2027. The vote comes as Senate Democrats yet again threaten to shut down the government ahead of the September 30 fiscal year-end deadline, just weeks before Election Day. This clean, short-term funding measure keeps the government open through December 4, 2026, taking that leverage off the table and sparing the American people from unnecessary uncertainty, disruption, and political brinkmanship:\n\n\u201cAfter Democrats drove the two longest government shutdowns in American history, they are once again obstructing the constitutional funding process. Senate Democrats are refusing to advance a single FY27 appropriations bill in the upper chamber, and House Democrats have shown today that this isn't only a Senate problem\u2014it's a Democrat problem, top to bottom.\n\n\u201cHouse Republicans have done the work. Every single appropriations bill is out of committee, three have already passed the Floor, and we're acting weeks ahead of the September 30 deadline to keep the government open. Democrats in both chambers have done nothing but obstruct, because a shutdown right before an election is the only leverage they've got left.\n\n\u201cWhile Democrats want to hold federal workers, military families, and Americans relying on SNAP and WIC hostage to score political points, House Republicans are taking proactive steps to reject last-minute governing and shutdown politics before the election.\n\n\u201cTennesseans don't want Washington playing games with a government shutdown, they want us doing our jobs. That's exactly what tonight's vote was about.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nThe legislation extends government funding at current levels while the House continues work on full-year fiscal 2027 appropriations. House Republicans have pushed to fund the government through regular order rather than a last-minute, pork-filled omnibus. All 12 FY27 appropriations bills have been reported out of the House Appropriations Committee, and three have passed the House Floor with bipartisan support. The Senate has yet to advance any FY27 appropriations bill due to Democrat-led obstruction.\n\nThe stopgap keeps the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), the National Flood Insurance Program, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Relief Fund, and other essential programs funded without interruption, and includes no partisan add-ons.\n\nSupporting this legislation keeps the government open, protects national security and essential services, and preserves the path to completing full-year FY27 appropriations during the remainder of the 119th Congress.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-22T07:34:13Z", "2026-07-22T07:35:16Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/two-harshbarger-bills-advance-through-energy-and-commerce-committee", "Two Harshbarger Bills Advance Through Energy and Commerce Committee", "2026-07-21", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) released the following statements after the House Energy and Commerce Committee advanced two of her bills at today\u2019s full committee markup. Members passed the Nutrition Education and Chronic Disease Prevention in Community Health Centers Act of 2026 and the Affordable Innovation for the Grid Act, sending both bills to the full House for consideration.\n\nNutrition Education and Chronic Disease Prevention in Community Health Centers Act of 2026:\n\n\u201cFor more than 30 years, I stood behind a pharmacy counter in East Tennessee and watched manageable conditions turn into life-altering ones because nobody caught them early enough,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \u201cI've always believed that the best prescription is the one you never have to write. The MAHA agenda's focus on prevention, addressing the root causes of disease, and empowering Americans to live healthier lives is the right direction for this country, and that\u2019s exactly where this bill will take us. I'm grateful for Secretary Kennedy's leadership on this front, and I'll keep fighting to get this across the finish line.\u201d\n\nCLICK HERE to learn more about the Nutrition Education and Chronic Disease Prevention in Community Health Centers Act of 2026.\n\nICYMI: Harshbarger in the Washington Times: In rural America, prevention is the prescription we can\u2019t afford to skip\n\nAffordable Innovation for the Grid Act:\n\n\"Today's markup moves us one step closer to a smarter, more reliable power grid,\" said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \u201cAmerica shouldn\u2019t have to wait years for new energy resources to come online because of an outdated interconnection process, and I'm glad we're one step closer to fixing that. I want to thank Chairman Guthrie and my colleague Rep. Mullin for their partnership in getting this bill through committee.\u201d\n\nCLICK HERE to learn more about the Affordable Innovation for the Grid Act.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-22T07:34:13Z", "2026-07-22T07:35:16Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/blackburn-introduces-legislation-to-increase-domestic-production-of-critical-medical-supplies", "Blackburn Introduces Legislation to Increase Domestic Production of Critical Medical Supplies", "2026-07-21", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "\u201cAmerica's dependence on China and other foreign nations for critical medical supplies is a national security threat that puts the lives of Americans at risk,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cThe ONSHORE Manufacturing Act would cut red tape with smart tax incentives to bring production home, protect our supply chains, and ensure we never face shortages that endanger patients during a crisis.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nThe United States relies heavily on foreign countries, including China, for many of the medicines, medical devices, and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) used by American patients every day.\n\nThis dependence creates vulnerabilities in the healthcare supply chain and leaves the United States exposed to disruptions caused by public health emergencies, natural disasters, geopolitical conflicts, and foreign export restrictions.\n\nThe COVID-19 pandemic highlighted these risks when shortages of medicines, personal protective equipment, and diagnostic materials disrupted patient care across the country. These challenges demonstrated the need for a stronger domestic manufacturing base for critical medical products.\n\nReliance on foreign supply chains is not only a healthcare issue but also a national security concern. Strengthening domestic manufacturing capacity can help ensure the United States has reliable access to the medicines and medical products needed during emergencies while reducing dependence on foreign competitors.\n\nONSHORE MANUFACTURING ACT\n\nThe ONSHORE Manufacturing Act would expand domestic manufacturing capacity and improve supply chain resilience products through key provisions, including a:\n\no 10.5% Domestic Manufacturing Production Credit that would help support long-term, U.S.-based production and employment;\n\no 30% Advanced Manufacturing Equipment Credit that would encourage investments in advanced manufacturing equipment used to produce critical medicines, APIs, biologics, medical devices, and medical countermeasures in the U.S.; and\n\no 30% Facility Modernization Credit that would support investment needed to upgrade and modernize manufacturing facilities to meet federal requirements while expanding domestic production capacity.\n\nThe bill would also require annual reports from the Internal Revenue Service, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, U.S. Department of War, and Food and Drug Administration evaluating the impact of the legislation on domestic manufacturing capacity, Buy American procurement compliance, supply chain resilience, and drug and device shortages.\n\nClick here for bill text.\n\nENDORSEMENTS", 1, "2026-07-22T07:34:13Z", "2026-07-22T07:35:16Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/video-democrats-block-blackburn-resolution-condemning-judge-eleanor-ross-gross-misconduct", "VIDEO: Democrats Block Blackburn Resolution Condemning Judge Eleanor Ross\u2019 Gross Misconduct", "2026-07-21", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "\u2018The American people deserve federal judges who uphold the highest standards of integrity\u2026 not those who turn their chambers into a venue for extramarital affairs.\u2019\n\n\u2018There is no reason any member of this body should object to my resolution today.\u2019\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Democrats blocked U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn\u2019s (R-Tenn.) effort to pass a resolution condemning Northern District of Georgia Judge Eleanor Ross\u2019 sexual misconduct and subsequent lies to judicial investigators. Excerpts of Senator Blackburn\u2019s remarks are below.\n\nClick here to download Senator Blackburn\u2019s remarks.\n\nEXCERPTS OF REMARKS\n\n\u201cI'm asking that the Senate speak with a unanimous voice in condemning one of the worst acts of judicial misconduct we have seen in years. Judge Eleanor Ross has been a district judge in the Northern District of Georgia for over a decade, and it's clear that she engaged in conduct that falls beneath the dignity of her high office in the federal judiciary.\u201d\n\n\u201cOver the course of two years, Judge Ross engaged in a sexual relationship with a high-ranking official of the Atlanta Police Department. This conduct occurred in her judicial chambers during normal business hours, within earshot of her law clerks.\u201d\n\n\u201cNot only did this misconduct create the possibility of an appearance of impropriety, an affair like this also exposed Judge Ross to the possibility of extortion and blackmail.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn addition to this egregious behavior in her chambers, the special committee also found an equally disturbing act of judicial misconduct: making false statements material to the committee's investigation. Judge Ross told the 11th Circuit's chief judge that she, and I quote, \u2018never engaged in sexual intercourse in her office nor anywhere else in the courthouse,\u2019 end quote.\u201d\n\n\u201cJudge Ross' statements to Chief Judge Pryor were patently false. They were knowingly false. We also know that it took Judge Ross nearly two weeks to retract the false statements.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe American people deserve federal judges who uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism on the bench, not those who turn their chambers into a venue for extramarital affairs.\u201d", 1, "2026-07-22T07:34:13Z", "2026-07-22T07:35:16Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/07/21/hagerty-leads-historic-senate-appropriations-subcommittee-hearing-to-review-the-supreme-courts-budget-request/", "Hagerty Leads Historic Senate Appropriations Subcommittee Hearing to Review the Supreme Court\u2019s Budget Request", "2026-07-21", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "The hearing takes place amid increased security threats against Supreme Court Justices\n\nWASHINGTON\u2014On Tuesday, United States Senator Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government (FSGG), led the Subcommittee\u2019s third and final hearing for Fiscal Year 2027. Justices Elena Kagan and Amy Coney Barrett\u2014the first sitting justices to appear before the committee in 24 years\u2014testified in support of the U.S. Supreme Court\u2019s budget request.\n\n*Click the photo above or click here to watch*\n\nRemarks as prepared for delivery:\n\n\u201cGood afternoon. The hearing will come to order. Before we begin, I would like to take a brief moment to remember our late colleague, Senator Lindsey Graham. He was a true American Statesman.\n\nWhat I remember most is that, while he was incredibly serious, he had unparalleled talent in bringing levity to any situation. I think Justice Kagan, it was during your confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, that one of his questions brought genuine laughter to the whole room.\n\nWe will miss Senator Graham dearly. His family, friends, and staff members remain in my prayers.\n\nTurning to the matter at hand, this is the third and final hearing of the Fiscal Year 2027 cycle for the Financial Services and General Government Subcommittee.\n\nFirst, I\u2019d like to welcome our distinguished witnesses, Justice Kagan and Justice Barrett of the United States Supreme Court. It\u2019s been fifteen years since Supreme Court Justices testified before the Senate, so I want to thank you both for being here today.\n\nThe work of the Supreme Court is of paramount importance, and I look forward to hearing from you about the resources the Court needs to do that work. Unlike federal departments, the Supreme Court is not a creature of Congress, but of the Constitution itself, equal in dignity to the Congress and the President. And unlike the legislative and executive powers, the Founders crafted the judicial power to be independent from the political branches.\n\nThat independent judicial authority\u2014characterized, in Alexander Hamilton\u2019s words, by \u201cneither force nor will, but merely judgment\u201d\u2014is \u201cthe best expedient \u2026 to secure a steady, upright, and impartial administration of the laws.\u201d It is crucial that we respect that independence, which is embedded in the separation of powers that forms the backbone of American government.\n\nThe Judicial Branch is not wholly insulated from Congress, however. Congress\u2019s power of the purse imparts not only the authority, but the responsibility, to fund every part of the government including the Supreme Court. It is therefore important for our branches to work together to ensure the Court has the resources it needs to perform its constitutional duties.\n\nWith these facts in mind, I want to be clear that this hearing is about the Supreme Court\u2019s fiscal, operational, and security needs, and will be conducted in light of the Court\u2019s unique relationship to Congress. This hearing is not a forum for discussion about the merits of specific cases\u2014past, present, or future\u2014or about when Justices should recuse from cases.\n\nI encourage my colleagues to focus their questions accordingly. And as a reminder, each Senator will have 1 round of 8 minutes to ask their questions. I also expect that our guests today will maintain order in the hearing room so we can conclude our business with efficiency and civility. We will have no tolerance for interruptions today. Any demonstration or disorderly conduct will result in prompt removal.\n\nThe Supreme Court\u2019s budget request for Fiscal Year 2027 seeks $207 million in discretionary funding. This amount is a $13.9 million\u2014or 7.2 percent\u2014increase over the total amount of discretionary funding provided to the Supreme Court for Fiscal Year 2026.\n\nThe requested increase is driven by an increasingly dangerous threat environment, and the recognition that more resources are needed to counteract this concerning reality. There is no denying that we are experiencing a disturbing level of violence against those who serve in the highest levels of government.\n\nPresident Trump has now survived three assassination attempts in the last two years. Yesterday was the second anniversary of the attempted assassination in Butler, Pennsylvania, where the assassin\u2019s bullet drew blood. But for a millimeter, President Trump would have been killed. Tragically, one American was killed, and two more were critically injured.\n\nThat\u2019s hardly the only instance. Our colleague Rand Paul suffered a felonious assault. Someone tried to firebomb Governor Josh Shapiro\u2019s home. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise narrowly survived an assassination attempt, as more congressmen stood in the line of fire.\n\nOf course, political violence is not solely directed to elected officials, as we recently saw with the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk.\n\nAnd\u2014particularly relevant for today\u2019s hearing\u2014the Supreme Court has not escaped this dark trend of politically motivated violence.\n\nFollowing the 2022 leak of the Dobbs draft opinion, a man intent on preserving Roe tried to kill Justice Kavanaugh at his home, bringing with him a gun, a knife, pepper spray, zip ties, lock-picking tools, and duct tape.\n\nSeparately, Justice Alito\u2019s staff opened an envelope to find a white powdery substance inside\u2014ultimately harmless but intended to terrorize Court personnel and obstruct Court operations.\n\nWe also observed hundreds of demonstrators gathering outside the Justices\u2019 homes, attempting to intimidate and influence them, in apparent violation of 18 U.S.C. \u00a7 1507 yet without a single arrest by Biden\u2019s Department of Justice. Justice Barrett was the target of a \u201cswatting\u201d attack intended to create an environment for potential injury to her and others.\n\nThese disturbing incidences force us to confront the reality that the physical security of each member of the Supreme Court is a matter of constitutional consequence.\n\nThough maintaining operational security might require obscuring some details, I am hopeful that the Justices\u2019 testimony today will help us understand some of these threats.\n\nAccompanying the rise in physical threats is a rise in cyber threats. In January, a man pleaded guilty to hacking the Supreme Court\u2019s electronic filing system at least 25 times. We have also observed a surge in cyber threats directed towards the lower courts.\n\nIt is not hyperbole to say that attacks of this nature can be a matter of life and death. Sealed court documents can include information about confidential informants and classified national security information, not to mention social security numbers, sensitive medical records, and trade secrets essential to our economic dominance.\n\nThe risk of insecure and unreliable electronic court records is not a risk we can accept. To defend against these threats and avoid the proliferation of attacks currently facing the lower courts, the Supreme Court\u2019s budget seeks a modest program increase to enhance its cybersecurity personnel.\n\nThank you for appearing before this Subcommittee, Justice Kagan and Justice Barrett. It is an honor to have you before us today and I look forward to your testimony.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-22T07:34:13Z", "2026-07-22T07:35:16Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/07/21/icymi-hagerty-joins-national-report-on-newsmax-to-discuss-iran-and-the-save-america-act/", "ICYMI\u2014Hagerty Joins National Report on Newsmax to Discuss Iran and the SAVE America Act", "2026-07-21", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "Washington\u2014Today, United States Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined National Report on Newsmax to discuss the latest in Iran and the SAVE America Act.\n\n*Click the photo above or here to watch*\n\nPartial Transcript\n\nHagerty on Iran: [President Donald Trump] has been completely clear that he is not going to allow Iran to have a nuclear weapon or nuclear capacity, so I am not surprised at all that as we get new intelligence, the president is going to proceed against that. With respect to the broader effort, I think the Iranian regime needs to learn that President Trump will not tolerate the behavior that we have seen with Iran\u2026 I think President Trump is demonstrating that very clearly, and he is degrading them significantly. He is creating a new set of terms. The next time the negotiations begin, I think the Iranian regime is going to find a very different situation. If you look at the inflation in their own economy, it\u2019s greater than 100%. Their economy is cratering. It is a very difficult situation right now, and President Trump is going to maintain maximum pressure [\u2026] Our efforts have been very much focused on depriving the Iranian government of any sort of effort\u2014any sort of capability\u2014to deliver nuclear weapons in that capacity. If you step back and ask yourself, \u2018why did we enter this at the time that we did?\u2019 It is because the Iranians were developing ballistic missile capability and drone capability that would have allowed them to essentially porcupine their country, and that meant they would have had all the time in the world to pursue their nuclear ambitions. President Trump saw this. We have exquisite technology to take out their weaponry, but that technology takes longer to develop\u2014it is a math problem at the end of the day. President Trump saw that and he is crushing their capacity to defend any of these assets. They have no ability to control their airways\u2014we do. It is up to us. The targeting package that [Central Command Commander Admiral Cooper] is pursuing will be discussed and pursued on a strategic basis [\u2026] [Iran] is very large\u201490 million people\u2014the vast majority of them hate this regime. All options are on the table in terms of what we do with the public, in terms of what military targets that we strike, what nuclear targets we strike. I think that\u2019s clearly an option that the Iranian people can take a very active role in dealing with this regime. [The Iranian Regime has] proven to be very unreliable\u2026 We have been losing American lives to this regime for decades. The time has come for this to come to an end. President Trump has been very clear, and if they strike us yet again, he is going to make certain that the Iranian regime pays for it tenfold\u2014or more. I think that message is coming across and again, whatever effort is necessary to win, I think [President Trump] is going to pursue that and keep those options on the table.\n\nHagerty on the SAVE America Act: After we saw President Trump reveal the information that we have garnered in terms of Chinese influence in our elections, adversarial influence in our elections, their ability to impact our elections, the need for election integrity and election security has never been higher. The Democrats refuse to acknowledge this because they flooded our border with illegal citizens. They made it clear that they want these people to be able to vote and they don\u2019t want any sort of ability to check and make certain that people that are voting in our elections are citizens. It is even more than that, though. We have got to go beyond that and make certain that no one is capable\u2014no country, no individual\u2014is capable of tampering with any vote. And anytime an [illegal alien] votes, they are depriving an American citizen of their vote. So I think the American public is rising, they appreciate this. If you poll this, you have over 70% of Democrats in favor of what we are trying to do, certainly close to 100% of Republicans\u2026 And I\u2019m optimistic that this time, [Congress is] going to find a vehicle to get [the SAVE America Act] through.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-22T07:34:13Z", "2026-07-22T07:35:16Z"], ["https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/fleischmann-awarded-hero-of-main-street", "Fleischmann Awarded \u2018Hero of Main Street\u2019", "2026-07-20", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Charles J. \"Chuck\" Fleischmann", "F000459", "fleischmann.house.gov", "fleischmann", "https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2013\u2013 The National Retail Federation has named Representative Chuck Fleischmann as a \u201cHero of Main Street\u201d for his support of the retail industry through legislation and his leadership in Congress.\n\n\u201cThe Volunteer State is proud to support millions of retail jobs that strengthen our economy and create opportunities for families across Tennessee. I have always been committed to advancing this vital industry by investing in workforce development and training programs. These efforts have helped Tennesseans secure good jobs, build rewarding careers, and provide for their loved ones. As the retail sector continues to evolve, I will remain dedicated to supporting initiatives that help our workforce thrive and keep Tennessee moving forward,\u201d Fleischmann said.\n\nThe National Retail Federation stands as the world\u2019s largest retail trade association, championing the people, brands, policies, and ideas that keep retail strong. Most retailers are small businesses, over 98 percent employ fewer than 50 people, making them the backbone of our communities and economy.", 1, "2026-07-21T07:32:02Z", "2026-07-21T07:33:33Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/video-blackburn-leads-colleagues-in-urging-senate-to-pass-save-america-act-following-president-trump-s-address-to-the-nation", "VIDEO: Blackburn Leads Colleagues in Urging Senate to Pass SAVE America Act Following President Trump\u2019s Address to the Nation", "2026-07-20", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) led her Republican colleagues, including Senators Mike Lee (R-Utah), John Husted (R-Ohio), and Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), in urging the Senate to pass the SAVE America Act following President Trump\u2019s address to the nation last week on election integrity:\n\nClick here to download Senator Blackburn\u2019s remarks.\n\nEXCERPTS OF REMARKS\n\n\u201cHaving voter ID is something the vast majority of Americans support whether they're Democrats or Republicans or Independents or Libertarians.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt's incredible that we're on the floor having to make the case for this legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe legislation that is before us would really accomplish three major objections in securing our elections.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt would require voters to present an ID to cast a ballot.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur legislation would require people to be a U.S. citizen in order to vote in our elections.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt would require the states to remove non-citizens who have somehow ended up on their voter rolls.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery one of them, common sense. There is nothing objectionable about these measures.\u201d\n\n\u201cMany Republican states already enforce these safeguards.\u201d\n\n\u201cIf every state was like Tennessee, there would be no need for the SAVE America Act. But for years, we have seen blue states practically invite fraud into their elections. 14 states, including California, New York, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, do not require any form of ID to vote. Many more states accept ID that is non-photo.\u201d\n\n\u201cStates that do this have found thousands of individuals.\u201d\n\n\u201cThere is no other, no other developed nation that leaves their election so vulnerable to fraud and manipulation.\u201d\n\n\u201cTo defend themselves, Democrats claim that voter fraud is very rare.\u201d\n\n\u201cPresident Trump's Thursday night address on election integrity showed just how much voter fraud we have.\u201d\n\n\u201cAccording to a DHS review of state voter rolls, there are approximately 278,000 non-citizens registered to vote in our elections. The last three presidential elections were decided by fewer\u2026 votes. The President noted that this figure is likely an undercount because Democrat states refuse to share their voter files with the administration.\u201d", 1, "2026-07-21T07:32:02Z", "2026-07-21T07:33:33Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/video-blackburn-leads-colleagues-in-urging-senate-to-pass-save-america-act-following-president-trump-s-address-to-the-nation/a96474c0-3908-4a45-94ad-ddf9626fd087", "VIDEO: Blackburn Leads Colleagues in Urging Senate to Pass SAVE America Act Following President Trump\u2019s Address to the Nation", "2026-07-20", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "\u2018There is nothing objectionable about these measures.\u2019\n\n\u2018If every state was like Tennessee, there would be no need for the SAVE America Act.\u2019\n\n\u2018There is no other developed nation that leaves their election so vulnerable to fraud and manipulation.\u2019\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) led her Republican colleagues, including Senators Mike Lee (R-Utah), John Husted (R-Ohio), and Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), in urging the Senate to pass the SAVE America Act following President Trump\u2019s address to the nation last week on election integrity:\n\nClick here to download Senator Blackburn\u2019s remarks.\n\nEXCERPTS OF REMARKS\n\n\u201cHaving voter ID is something the vast majority of Americans support whether they're Democrats or Republicans or Independents or Libertarians.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt's incredible that we're on the floor having to make the case for this legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe legislation that is before us would really accomplish three major objections in securing our elections.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt would require voters to present an ID to cast a ballot.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur legislation would require people to be a U.S. citizen in order to vote in our elections.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt would require the states to remove non-citizens who have somehow ended up on their voter rolls.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery one of them, common sense. There is nothing objectionable about these measures.\u201d\n\n\u201cMany Republican states already enforce these safeguards.\u201d\n\n\u201cIf every state was like Tennessee, there would be no need for the SAVE America Act. But for years, we have seen blue states practically invite fraud into their elections. 14 states, including California, New York, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, do not require any form of ID to vote. Many more states accept ID that is non-photo.\u201d\n\n\u201cStates that do this have found thousands of individuals.\u201d\n\n\u201cThere is no other, no other developed nation that leaves their election so vulnerable to fraud and manipulation.\u201d\n\n\u201cTo defend themselves, Democrats claim that voter fraud is very rare.\u201d\n\n\u201cPresident Trump's Thursday night address on election integrity showed just how much voter fraud we have.\u201d\n\n\u201cAccording to a DHS review of state voter rolls, there are approximately 278,000 non-citizens registered to vote in our elections. The last three presidential elections were decided by fewer\u2026 votes. The President noted that this figure is likely an undercount because Democrat states refuse to share their voter files with the administration.\u201d", 1, "2026-07-22T07:34:13Z", "2026-07-22T07:35:16Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/blackburn-leads-colleagues-in-introducing-bill-to-stop-multi-million-dollar-birth-tourism-industry-following-scotus-ruling-on-birthright-citizenship", "Blackburn Leads Colleagues in Introducing Bill to Stop Multi-Million Dollar Birth Tourism Industry Following SCOTUS Ruling on Birthright Citizenship", "2026-07-17", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "NASHVILLE, Tenn. \u2013 U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), and Rick Scott (R-Fla.) introduced a new and improved version of the Ban Birth Tourism Actto eliminate loopholes that foreign nationals exploit to become U.S. citizens following the Supreme Court\u2019s disappointing decision in Trump v. Barbara:\n\n\u201cFollowing the Supreme Court\u2019s decision in Trump v. Barbara, Congress must step up to the plate to protect the integrity of American citizenship,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cI\u2019m grateful to my Republican colleagues for joining me in reintroducing the Ban Birth Tourism Act to make it crystal clear that any alien seeking to come to our country to engage in birth tourism is both inadmissible and deportable under the Immigration & Nationality Act.\u201d\n\n\u201cBirthright citizenship has been exploited for far too long. The Fourteenth Amendment was never intended to reward birth tourism. Congress must close this loophole, and I am proud to join Senator Blackburn in introducing legislation to end this abuse and protect the integrity of American citizenship,\u201d said Senator Budd.\n\n\u201cIt is a profound blessing to be an American citizen and to inherit the 250-year legacy of freedom and opportunity that has made the United States the greatest country in the world, but U.S. citizenship is not a commodity,\u201d said Senator Cornyn. \u201cBy cracking down on birth tourism, a practice often abused and exploited by our adversaries, this legislation ensures our nation\u2019s immigration laws are upheld and American citizenship cannot be bought.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Left has spent decades turning our citizenship laws into a giant loophole for anyone willing to hop on a plane, and it's American taxpayers who foot the bill for their reckless open-borders agenda,\" said Senator Lummis. \"Birth tourism has become a multimillion-dollar industry catering to wealthy foreign nationals who exploit our laws to buy their children an American passport and a right to vote in American elections. This bill slams that ridiculous loophole shut for good.\"\n\n\u201cAllowing foreign tourists to give birth in our country specifically with the purpose of securing U.S. citizenship for their children threatens not only the integrity of our immigration system, but also our national security. American citizenship is an honor and a privilege \u2013 we cannot let birth tourism operations and bad actors exploit it,\u201d said Senator Sheehy. \u201cThe Ban Birth Tourism Act would close a loophole that foreign schemers have used for years to undermine American citizenship, while maintaining protections for legitimate travelers seeking medical care. I\u2019m proud to support this common-sense legislation and look forward to seeing it advance through the Senate.\u201d\n\n\u201cBirth tourism is happening, it\u2019s wrong, and it needs to be stopped,\u201d said Senator Banks. \u201cFor too long, foreign nationals have abused our immigration system and taken advantage of the American people. It\u2019s time to take back our sovereignty, and I\u2019m proud to join Sen. Blackburn in this fight.\u201d", 1, "2026-07-21T07:32:02Z", "2026-07-21T07:33:33Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-helps-get-hawkins-countys-words-wheels-bookmobile-back-road", "Harshbarger Helps Get Hawkins County's Words on Wheels Bookmobile Back on the Road", "2026-07-16", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Rogersville, TN \u2014 Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) this week helped deliver a donation of children's books to Hawkins County Schools through the U.S. Library of Congress Surplus Books Program, timed to coincide with the return of the county's \u201cWords on Wheels\u201d bookmobile, which had been out of service for several months due to engine trouble.\n\n\u201cIt is always a joy to help put more books in the hands of East Tennessee kids, and there's no better time than right as Words on Wheels gets back on the road,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \u201cI'm grateful to the Library of Congress and Joe Mahar for making these donations possible, and to Hawkins County's vehicle maintenance crew for their hard work getting this bookmobile running again. Programs like Words on Wheels keep kids reading all summer long, and I'm proud my office could play a small part in that.\u201d\n\n\u201cCongresswoman Harshbarger has been very generous with her willingness to contribute books from the Library of Congress surplus Book Program,\u201d said Erika Phillips, Hawkins County Schools Health Coordinator.\n\nThe Words on Wheels bookmobile\u2014a retired school bus retrofitted in 2022 to serve as a mobile library\u2014had been sidelined after its engine failed following hundreds of thousands of miles of use. Hawkins County Schools' maintenance staff sourced and installed a remanufactured engine using leftover funds from last year's operating budget, avoiding the need for a budget amendment, according to Director of Schools Matt Hixson.\n\nThe books were delivered to the school system on Wednesday, July 15, and loaded directly onto the bookmobile ahead of upcoming back-to-school events. While Congresswoman Harshbarger was in Washington, D.C. for votes and unable to attend the delivery in person, her son, state Sen. Bobby Harshbarger, stood in on her behalf. The Words on Wheels program will be back in service for back-to-school events beginning later this month.\n\nICYMI in The Rogersville Review:Words on Wheels is back, with a little help\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-17T07:15:58Z", "2026-07-17T07:17:05Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-introduces-legislation-hold-insurance-companies-accountable-sex", "Harshbarger Introduces Legislation to Hold Insurance Companies Accountable for Sex-Rejecting Procedure Harms", "2026-07-16", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Image\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) today introduced the Treatment and Restoration Uniformity and Transparency in Health Coverage (TRUTH in Coverage) Act, legislation requiring health insurance plans that cover sex-rejecting procedures to also cover restorative care for patients who suffer complications, adverse outcomes, or seek to restore healthy bodily function. Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.\n\n\u201cIt's outrageous that a health plan can cover sex-rejecting procedures but refuse to cover the restorative care patients need to address the harm they cause. That's not a fair deal for patients who want to restore healthy bodily function,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \u201cPatients should never be abandoned after undergoing life-altering, harmful medical interventions once reality sets in. As a pharmacist, I've seen insurance companies find every excuse in the book to avoid paying for the care patients actually need. My TRUTH in Coverage Act restores fairness, promotes transparency, and ensures patients aren't left paying the price for care their insurance should cover.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs physicians, we take an oath to first do no harm. Unfortunately, too many Americans have undergone irreversible gender transition procedures only to be left with life-changing complications and nowhere to turn,\u201d said Senator Roger Marshall. \u201cInsurance companies have been more than willing to profit by covering these procedures, but when patients need care to treat complications and restore healthy human function, they're often left on their own. That's wrong. Patients deserve transparency before making life-altering medical decisions, and insurance companies should be consistent in their coverage when those decisions result in lifelong complications.\u201d\n\nAcross the country, many private health insurance companies have profited handsomely by covering sex-rejecting procedures that aim to alter a person\u2019s biological and anatomical characteristics. Yet patients who later experience complications, adverse medical outcomes, or seek restorative treatment often discover that while their insurance covered the original sex-rejecting procedures, it refuses to cover the care needed to treat resulting injuries or restore healthy bodily function.\n\nThe TRUTH in Coverage Act establishes a uniform federal coverage standard across private insurance markets by amending the Public Health Service Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), and the Internal Revenue Code (IRC). The legislation applies not only to state-regulated health insurance plans but also to self-funded employer health plans governed by ERISA, ensuring protections for patients nationwide.\n\nUnder the bill, any health plan that elects to cover sex-rejecting procedures or is required to cover them by state or local law or regulation, must provide coverage for restorative care under terms that are no more restrictive than those applied to the original procedures. This includes deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, prior authorization requirements, and other treatment limitations.\n\nThe legislation does not require any health plan to cover sex-rejecting procedures. Rather, it ensures that if a plan provides such coverage, it must also cover healthcare to address the harm caused by these procedures, and to restore healthy human form and functioning, to the greatest extent practicable. The requirements would take effect for plan years beginning on or after January 1, 2027.\n\nReps. Brian Babin (R-TX), Sheri Biggs (R-SC), Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter (R-GA), \u201cJudge\u201d John Carter (R-TX), Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ), Clay Fuller (R-GA), Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ), Mike Kennedy (R-UT), John McGuire (R-VA), Mary Miller (R-IL), Marlin Stutzman (R-IN), and Matt Van Epps (R-TN) join as original cosponsors. Sen. Lummis (R-WY) is an original cosponsor in the Senate.\n\nKEY PROVISIONS:\n\nRequires health plans that cover sex-rejecting procedures to also cover restorative care addressing resulting harms, regardless of when the original procedure occurred or which plan covered it.\n\nProhibits insurers from imposing separate, more restrictive cost-sharing or treatment limitations on restorative care than those applicable to the original procedures.\n\nDefines restorative care broadly to include treatment for reproductive injury, endocrine dysfunction, cardiovascular and metabolic complications, surgical complications, mental health conditions, and other harms tied to sex-rejecting procedures.\n\nPreserves exceptions for treatment of documented disorders of sex development, emergency medical care, treatment of precocious puberty, and male circumcision.\n\nEstablishes a uniform federal standard applicable to both state-regulated health insurance markets and ERISA self-funded employer health plans.\n\nADDITIONAL INFORMATION:\n\nFull text\n\nOne-pager\n\nWhat they are saying\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-17T07:15:58Z", "2026-07-17T07:17:05Z"], ["https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-burchett-introduces-bill-allow-president-issue-cyber-letters", "Congressman Burchett Introduces Bill to Allow to President to Issue Cyber Letters of Marque and Reprisal", "2026-07-15", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Tim Burchett", "B001309", "burchett.house.gov", "burchett", "https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. (07/15/2026) -- Today, Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02) introduced the Cyber Letters of Marque and Reprisal Act in the U.S. House of Representatives. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Senate version of this legislation.\n\nCybercrime poses a persistent and evolving threat to the United States, targeting individuals, businesses, and government institutions. Everything from financial scams to terrorist plots are facilitated through a vast cyberspace that our government agencies are tasked with protecting.\n\nThe Cyber Letters of Marque and Reprisal Act authorizes the President to commission private contractors and entities for the purpose of conducting limited cyberspace operations. Deputizing American patriots will bolster our ability to protect the U.S. against cyber criminals.\n\n\u201cWidespread cybercrime represents an existential threat to our national security,\u201d said Congressman Burchett. \u201cAllowing private operators to aid the federal government in combatting these crimes will strengthen our ability to defend the United States against terrorism. I am proud to partner with Senator Lee again to protect Americans. He continues to be a strong advocate for cyber security in Congress\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-16T07:21:44Z", "2026-07-16T07:23:13Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-supports-fy27-funding-strengthen-national-security-and-counter", "Harshbarger Supports FY27 Funding to Strengthen National Security and Counter Adversaries", "2026-07-15", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) today voted to advance the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2027, legislation that delivers on President Trump's America First agenda by cutting waste, countering adversaries such as the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), and ending the Biden-era woke spending spree.\n\n\u201cAn America First foreign policy means standing up for our own interests, not writing blank checks to countries and organizations that don't have our back. This bill delivers on that promise by realigning our foreign policy around the safety, strength, and prosperity of the United States, eliminating wasteful spending, ending woke programs that have no business representing American taxpayers abroad, and holding Communist China accountable at every turn. I'm proud to stand with President Trump and deliver on the America First agenda he promised the American people,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger.\n\nKEY PROVISIONS:\n\nCounters the CCP by requiring opposition to multilateral development bank lending for the PRC and prohibiting funds that would help countries repay debt owed to Communist China.\n\nTakes on the fentanyl crisis by supporting the bureau of International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) to counter the flow of illicit drugs into the United States.\n\nProtects life and American values, maintaining long-standing pro-life protections including the Helms and Kemp-Kasten amendments, prohibiting funds for the U.N. Population Fund (UNFPA), and eliminating spending on DEI, gender ideology, and climate programs in foreign assistance.\n\nProhibits funding for DEI initiatives, radical gender ideology, climate mandates, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and other programs inconsistent with President Trump's America First agenda.\n\nHolds foreign governments and bad actors accountable for persecuting people of faith, including by restricting assistance to Nigeria until measurable actions are taken to protect Christian communities suffering from religious violence.\n\nContinues to require the transition of global health programs toward greater country ownership and supporting the Department of State as they secure co-financing commitments from partner countries.\n\nImportantly, in an effort to force the Senate to pass the SAVE America Act, House Republicans attached the election integrity legislation to this must-pass appropriations bill before sending it to the Senate.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-16T07:21:44Z", "2026-07-16T07:23:13Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/video-blackburn-scorches-durbin-for-grandstanding-on-epstein-files-after-he-previously-blocked-subpoena-requests", "VIDEO: Blackburn Scorches Durbin for Grandstanding on Epstein Files After He Previously Blocked Subpoena Requests", "2026-07-15", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "\u201cWhen Ranking Member Durbin was Chairman in the last Congress, I tried repeatedly to subpoena the Epstein files so that we could get those banking records and those flight logs.\u201d\n\n\u201cRepeatedly, that was blocked.\u201d\n\n\u201cSo, the Democrats at that point didn\u2019t want to know what was in the Epstein files until they lost the majority, and then they were hell bent to get that.\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today during U.S. Attorney General Nominee Todd Blanche\u2019s confirmation hearing, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) slammed Senate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) for pretending to care about the Epstein files after he previously blocked Senator Blackburn\u2019s requests to subpoena the Epstein flight logs as Chairman of the Committee.\n\nSenator Blackburn spoke with Acting Attorney General Blanche about the tremendous success of the Memphis Safe Task Force and the need to pass her Federal Carjacking Enforcement Act, her Ban Birth Tourism Act, and her Fraud Accountability Act to support his work on these issues at the U.S. Department of Justice.\n\nClick here to download Senator Blackburn\u2019s remarks.\n\nRELATED\n\nBlackburn Schools Durbin After He Lies About Blocking Her Requests for Epstein Flight Logs", 1, "2026-07-16T07:21:44Z", "2026-07-16T07:23:13Z"], ["https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-david-kustoffs-rural-patient-monitoring-access-act-advances-ways", "Congressman David Kustoff's Rural Patient Monitoring Access Act Advances Ways & Means Committee", "2026-07-15", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "David Kustoff", "K000392", "kustoff.house.gov", "kustoff", "https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 The Ways and Means Committee passed Congressman David Kustoff\u2019s (R-TN-08) Rural Patient Monitoring (RPM) Access Act, H.R. 3108, with bipartisan support. Introduced by Reps. David Kustoff, Donald Davis (D-NC-01), Troy Balderson (R-OH-12), and Mark Pocan (D-WI-02) in April 2025, this bill enables Medicare beneficiaries in rural and underserved communities to gain access to high-quality remote physiologic monitoring services.\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s committee passage brings us one step closer to helping more Medicare patients receive the care they need closer to home,\u201d said Congressman David Kustoff. \u201cThe RPM Access Act will help more doctors and nurses monitor patients remotely, allowing them to manage complex chronic conditions in real time. I appreciate my colleagues\u2019 support as we work to expand access to high-quality health care in rural West Tennessee and across the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cTechnological advancement has created new opportunities to deliver better health care, but those opportunities mean little if patients cannot access them,\u201dsaid Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08). \u201cRemote patient monitoring gives physicians valuable insight into their patients\u2019 health while allowing individuals to better manage chronic conditions from home. Unfortunately, rural communities that need these tools the most continue to face barriers that limit access, and as a result have a 33% lower rate of use of remote monitoring. Representative Kustoff\u2019s Rural Patient Monitoring Access Act ensures Medicare beneficiaries in rural and underserved communities can benefit from innovative care models that improve health outcomes and strengthen access to care.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nRemote physiologic monitoring is the use of digital technologies to collect health data from patients in one location and electronically transmit that information securely to providers in a different location. Medicare patients living in rural areas face higher rates of heart failure, hypertension, and diabetes compared to patients in urban areas. However, Medicare reimbursement for remote physiologic monitoring is lowest in the rural areas it is needed most.\n\nThe RPM Access Act would create new requirements to ensure high-quality services for Medicare. These requirements include:\n\nRPM providers must be capable of responding to data anomalies detected by the monitoring service.\n\nRPM providers must be capable of promptly transmitting captured vitals and treatment management notes to the electronic health record of the supervising provider.\n\nCenters for Medicare and Medicaid Services may require providers of RPM to report data to the Secretary of Health and Human Services in order to facilitate the evaluation of cost savings generated to the Medicare program through the proliferation of remote physiologic monitoring services.", 1, "2026-07-25T07:13:44Z", "2026-07-25T07:15:09Z"], ["https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/immediate-release-congressman-burchett-introduces-bill-improve-snap", "For\u202fImmediate\u202fRelease: Congressman Burchett Introduces Bill to Improve SNAP Trafficking Data", "2026-07-14", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Tim Burchett", "B001309", "burchett.house.gov", "burchett", "https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Low-income families rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for vital access to food security. SNAP trafficking occurs when benefits are illegally exchanged for cash or non-eligible goods.\n\nThe Stop Retail Food Store SNAP Trafficking Act improves the collection of SNAP trafficking data to enable better oversight of potential abuse across the country. Additionally, this legislation strengthens enforcement by increasing penalties on malicious actors from $100,000 to $250,000.\n\n\u201cSNAP has become notorious for being plagued with fraud and abuse,\u201d said Rep. Burchett. \u201cMy bill will empower the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct better oversight to ensure that your taxpayer money is being used to serve the least amongst us, not fraudsters.\u201d", 1, "2026-07-15T07:12:08Z", "2026-07-15T07:13:45Z"], ["https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-david-kustoff-celebrates-americas-250th-birthday-honoring-west", "Congressman David Kustoff Celebrates America\u2019s 250th Birthday by Honoring West Tennessee\u2019s Finest Across TN-08", "2026-07-14", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "David Kustoff", "K000392", "kustoff.house.gov", "kustoff", "https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "MEMPHIS, TN \u2014 Last week, Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN-08) toured across Tennessee\u2019s 8th Congressional District to present flags flown over the U.S. Capitol to West Tennesseans whose service and hard work have helped shape America\u2019s story for 250 years..\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s 250th birthday is an opportunity to honor the people who keep our country moving forward,\u201dsaid Congressman Kustoff. \u201cHere in West Tennessee, that spirit is alive in the men and women who serve their neighbors and strengthen our communities. It was an honor to recognize West Tennessee\u2019s finest and present them with flags flown over the U.S. Capitol.\u201d\n\nAs part of the tour, Congressman Kustoff honored Major Billy Gene Key, an Army Reserve servicemember who was injured during a drone strike while deployed to Kuwait; and Larry Marshall, a U.S. Army veteran who received a flag in honor of his father, Phillip G. Marshall.\n\nThe tour included stops with local businesses, farms, first responders, educators, law enforcement, and community organizations across TN-08, where Congressman Kustoff presented flags flown over the U.S. Capitol, including:\n\nShelby County\n\n- Ducks Unlimited: Met with Ducks Unlimited leadership to discuss habitat conservation and recognize the organization\u2019s work protecting wetlands and waterfowl habitat.\n\n- Bartlett Fire Station 1: Thanked Bartlett firefighters for their service to the Bartlett community.\n\n- Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency: Joined TWRA officers on the Mississippi River and recognized their work protecting Tennessee\u2019s waterways.\n\n- Agricenter International: Met with agricultural leaders and toured the Helena research facility at Agricenter International.\n\n- Dinstuhl\u2019s Chocolate Factory: Toured the historic Memphis business and recognized its longtime contributions to the Mid-South.\n\nFayette County\n\n- Rhea Farm: Visited with farm owner Scott Rhea to discuss the Farm Bill, rising input costs, and West Tennessee agriculture.\n\n- Fayette County Sheriff\u2019s Office: Met with Sheriff Bobby Riles and deputies to thank them for their service to Fayette County.\n\nHaywood County\n\n- Mallard Estates: Met with farm owners and Mallard Estates operators Blake and Monte McWilliams to discuss agriculture, land management, and outdoor recreation in West Tennessee.\n\n- Haywood County Sheriff\u2019s Office: Met with Sheriff Billy Garrett and recognized his years of service to Haywood County.\n\nCrockett County\n\n- Tennessee Tractor: Visited with Tennessee Tractor leadership to discuss agriculture, equipment needs, and the farming economy.\n\n- Yukon Outfitters: Toured this West Tennessee small business and discussed its growth and work in the outdoor products industry.\n\nMadison County\n\n- Life Flight Air Evac: Recognized Air Evac crew members for their lifesaving emergency medical work across West Tennessee.\n\n- Lifeline Blood Services: Visited Lifeline Blood Services to highlight its role in supporting patients and medical facilities across the region.\n\nChester County\n\n- Freed-Hardeman University: Met with new university president Dr. Keith Harris.\n\nGibson County\n\n- Luckey Farms: Visited with farm owner Jason Luckey and his family to discuss agriculture and the needs of Gibson County farmers.\n\n- Milan Box Corporation: Toured the longtime Milan manufacturer and discussed its work supporting industrial packaging and local jobs.\n\nCarroll County\n\n- Carroll County 911 Center: Toured the new 911 center and recognized local emergency communications personnel.\n\n- Huntingdon Football Team: Honored the Huntingdon football team for winning the 2A state championship.\n\nHenderson County\n\n- AutoZone Distribution Center: Toured the Lexington distribution center and recognized its role as one of the area\u2019s largest employers.\n\n- Veterans Honor Guard of Parker\u2019s Crossroads: Recognized the volunteer veterans who provide military honors at funerals across West Tennessee.\n\nThese visits highlighted the service and patriotism of West Tennesseans who strengthen their communities and represent the very best of Tennessee\u2019s 8th Congressional District.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-15T07:12:08Z", "2026-07-15T07:13:45Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/07/14/icymi-hagerty-joinsmornings-with-maria-on-fox-business-to-discuss-clarity-the-save-act-reconciliation-3-0-and-lindsey-grahams-legacy/", "ICYMI\u2014Hagerty Joins Mornings with Maria\u00a0on Fox Business to Discuss CLARITY, the SAVE Act, Reconciliation 3.0 and Lindsey Graham\u2019s Legacy", "2026-07-14", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "Washington\u2014Today, United States Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined Mornings with Maria on Fox Business to honor the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-SC, and to discuss the CLARITY Act, the SAVE America Act and Reconciliation 3.0.\n\n*Click the photo above or here to watch*\n\nPartial Transcript\n\nHagerty on Lindsey Graham\u2019s passing: There is a pall over all of D.C. Frankly, over much of the world. Lindsey was very well traveled as a legislator and very well liked. We will all dearly miss him. He played a critical role in the Senate. He always brought levity to everything that he did\u2026 I remember him walking into an important meeting with members of the House of Representatives, and Lindsey announced, \u201cI am from the United States Senate, and I\u2019m here to help.\u201d It just broke the room, it broke the ice. And he had a way of piercing even the most tense situation with a little bit of levity. He always also was very clear in his goals. You might not always agree with his goals, but Lindsey always had a plan to get them accomplished. And I think he is resting better\u2014God bless him\u2014knowing that he accomplished so much, particularly with the situation in Ukraine right now. His breakthrough efforts that just occurred with Russian sanctions, I think will make a big difference in terms of bringing peace to that area that he\u2019s worked so hard at [\u2026] Lindsey was chair of the [Senate Budget Committee] and we\u2019ve made great progress on the Reconciliation 3.0 package. We need that to get critical aspects of legislation done. We are at a point in the political environment right now where it is difficult to get any cooperation from the Democrats and getting the SAVE America Act passed, which is so important to us, many elements of that can be done through Reconciliation 3.0. There are a number of other impacts to the economy, to the housing market: indexing capital gains on housing, the budget for the Defense Department, and a number of other matters that we do need to address. Lindsey was riding front and center on that in the budget committee. It is going to take a lot of dedication. I think we should dedicate our efforts in memory of him to get that done as well [\u2026] Having [Sen. Graham] on the [Senate Judiciary Committee] was certainly an advantage for Republicans. [Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche] will be a great [United States Attorney General]. He is already doing a very good job, but I think having Lindsey there would have been a plus. We will certainly figure out how to address the gap that Lindsey\u2019s departure leaves, but again, I say we will miss his voice in so many areas\u2014Judiciary, of course, as you point out, being one of those critical points.\n\nHagerty on the SAVE America Act: I think we should try every aspect available to us. I\u2019m one of the co-sponsors of this bill and am very keen to see it passed. What Lindsey Graham was working on in the Reconciliation 3.0 package does not require Democrat votes. I think that was one of the paths that offered the most promise, and I think we need to continue our efforts full bore to make sure we get it done, and this is the time to do it. I agree that this is the legislative period before August to work hard to get it done. We have got a lot on the agenda. We need to get the National Defense Authorization Act passed; Lindsey was a strong voice there as well. We have made great progress there. I think we\u2019re very close to being ready to do that\u2026 I put great effort forward last year to get the Genius Act passed, and what the Genius Act did for stable coins in bringing America to the absolute lead on an international basis can be done as well with the CLARITY Act for the remainder of the digital assets industry, we need to get that passed also. So, there are a lot of pressures on us right now and a lot of work ahead.\n\nHagerty on Reconciliation 3.0: I think we\u2019re going to have to be able to both walk and chew gum at the same time. We\u2019re going to be working on multiple components of this, and it will be up to [Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-SD,] to decide which is ready and which is most, most passable on any given day. But we\u2019re going to have to be proceeding side by side with these incredibly important pieces of legislation that is in the Senate Banking Committee. A lot of good work has gone into that, I think we are very close there. The SAVE America Act being \u201cbudgetized,\u201d if you will, in the Senate Budget Committee, a lot of work has happened there. The House is working very hard right now to send something our way. And again, the National Defense Authorization Bill has got a lot of elements in it that, um, that will be critical to our national security. I think Leader Thune will be looking at which [bills] are prime and ready to go. But we are going to be voting and pushing this forward at a very rapid pace\u2026 Nobody will be able to fill [Sen. Graham\u2019s] place, there is no question about that. But there are procedures in place to roll in a new chair of the budget committee. There are procedures in place for the governor of South Carolina to replace Lindsey, and all of that will be taking up a good part of this week, I am certain.\n\nHagerty on the CLARITY Act: [The CLARITY Act] certainly has the momentum, and I think the interest to get it done. I will just say this: it has been transformative to see what the GENIUS Act has done to the stablecoin arena. We have the opportunity to maintain that lead for America on a global basis if we can get CLARITY done. And the right time to do it is right now. The elements are there in front of us. I would hate to see us kick the can down the road any further, but we have a lot ahead of us on the agenda. I certainly hope we can get this done soon.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-15T07:12:08Z", "2026-07-15T07:13:45Z"], ["https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-rep-van-epps-major-non-nato-ally-terror-threat-assessment-act", "House Passes Rep. Van Epps\u2019 Major Non-NATO Ally Terror Threat Assessment Act", "2026-07-13", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Matt Van Epps", "V000139", "vanepps.house.gov", "vanepps", "https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.- Today, the House of Representatives passed Rep. Van Epps\u2019 (TN07) Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA)Terror Threat Assessment Act.\n\nUpon passage of the bill, Rep. Van Epps stated, \u201cI am grateful my Major Non-NATO Ally Terror Threat Assessment Act passed the House of Representatives today. When the United States designates a nation as a Major non-NATO ally, it's a significant move. Giving a country MNNA status is not merely symbolic; it comes with practical benefits, but also risks. This legislation strengthens coordination between the Department of Homeland Security and Congress to better assess and support MNNA partners as they confront terrorist threats within their own borders. This will ensure Congress has the information it needs to provide effective oversight as a partner with this administration.\u201d\n\nWatch or read Rep. Van Epps\u2019 remarks on the House Floor below\n\nImage\n\n\u201cMr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bill, H.R. 8168, the Major Non-Nato Ally Terror Threat Assessment Act.\n\nWhen the United States designates a nation as a Major non-NATO ally, it comes with security cooperation and possible trade deals for defense equipment. This is an important designation that our nation does not grant lightly.\n\nHowever, we cannot ignore the fact that foreign terrorist organizations continue to operate in or around some MNNA countries, creating threats that could have serious consequences for U.S. national security. For that reason, it's critical for Congress to have a full picture of the terrorist organizations that may be operating within our partner nations.\n\nAnd that\u2019s why I introduced this legislation.\n\nMy bill strengthens coordination between the Department of Homeland Security and Congress to better assess and support MNNA partners as they confront threats within their own borders. It requires the department to provide Congress with a comprehensive assessment identifying foreign terrorist organizations operating within MNNA countries, as well as each partner\u2019s capacity to counter those threats.\n\nThese partnerships are important, but we must also protect our own national security.\n\nI urge my colleagues to join me in voting in favor of this bill and yield back.\u201d\n\nRead the bill here.\n\nRead the one-pager here.\n\nRead Rep. Van Epps\u2019 original press release here.\n\nRead about the bill\u2019s passage throughout committee markup here or watch his remarks here.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe MNNA designation is linked to provisions of the Arms Export Control Act and the Foreign Assistance Act. Over time, limited oversight of the MNNA program has created a gap where U.S.-designated terrorist organizations are present in, or operating from, MNNA countries. This bill addresses this gap by providing Congress with regular visibility into where these groups operate, how they function, how partner governments are responding, and whether the United States has the capabilities and resources needed to help our partners mitigate threats before they reach the homeland. There are currently 20 countries designated as MNNAs plus one unofficial designation (Taiwan).", 1, "2026-07-14T07:08:55Z", "2026-07-14T07:10:52Z"], ["https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-announces-2026-service-academy-day", "Rep. Van Epps Announces 2026 Service Academy Day", "2026-07-13", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Matt Van Epps", "V000139", "vanepps.house.gov", "vanepps", "https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Franklin, Tennessee - Rep. Matt Van Epps will host a Service Academy Day on Saturday, August 8, 2026, to provide students and families with information about the nation's prestigious U.S. Service Academies and Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) opportunities.\n\nInvited to attend the event are representatives from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and ROTC programs to answer questions about admissions, nominations, scholarships, and military service.\n\nRep. Van Epps said, \u201cMy time at West Point shaped the leader I am today. Our service academies challenge young men and women to embrace duty, honor, and selfless service while preparing them to lead in uniform and beyond. Whether you're interested in attending a service academy or pursuing an ROTC scholarship, I encourage students and their families to join us to learn more about these life-changing opportunities to serve our country.\u201d\n\nService Academy Day Information:\n\nDate: Saturday, August 8, 2026\n\nDoors Open: 10:00 a.m.\n\nProgram: 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.\n\nLocation: Franklin High School, 810 Hillsboro Road, Franklin, TN 37064\n\nStudents, parents, guidance counselors, and anyone interested in learning more about military service and academy admissions are encouraged to attend.\n\nPlease RSVP for the Service Academy Day here.\n\nFor more information about the nomination process, visit Rep. Van Epps\u2019 Service Academy FAQ page here, or you can call his Franklin District office at (629) 223-6050.\n\nTo request a military service academy nomination from our office, please complete the form here. The deadline to apply is Thursday, October 30th, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.\n\nFor additional information, please contact Matthew Siciliano at matthew.siciliano@mail.house.gov.", 1, "2026-07-14T07:08:55Z", "2026-07-14T07:10:52Z"], ["https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/07/13/icymi-hagerty-joins-kudlow-on-fox-business-to-discuss-iran-housing-and-reconciliation-3-0/", "ICYMI\u2014Hagerty Joins Kudlow\u00a0on Fox Business to Discuss Iran, Housing and Reconciliation 3.0", "2026-07-13", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Bill Hagerty", "H000601", "www.hagerty.senate.gov", "hagerty", "https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/", "scraper", "Washington\u2014On Friday, United States Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined Kudlow on Fox Business to discuss Iran, housing and Reconciliation 3.0.\n\n*Click the photo above or here to watch*\n\nPartial Transcript\n\nHagerty on Iran: [Commander of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) Admiral Brad Cooper], is in charge of the [Strait of Hormuz]. It\u2019s the United States of America that is driving the behavior [in Iran]. And what we have is increasing propaganda coming from the Iranian regime. They\u2019re great at propaganda, they\u2019re great at negotiations, but in terms of delivery\u2014not so much. And their economy is in the tank. You see what we\u2019ve done now: the ceasefire is over, [U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent] stepping back in, removing Iran\u2019s temporary license to ship\u2014that\u2019s gone. Sanctions are being reimposed, economic pressure [is] back on, President Trump has hit [Iran] very hard. I think they\u2019re realizing that the old playbook\u2014 the one they used with [President Barack Obama], the one they used with [President Joe Biden]\u2014will not work with this administration [\u2026] I think that the memorandum of understanding is on life support, at best. [The United States has] reimposed sanctions. We are back at a point of negotiating from a position of strength, letting the Iranians know how it is going to be. We tried to allow them to behave like a normal country; it seems to be beyond them to do that. So, we are moving to plan B. [\u2026] We had completed about 75-80% of [target packages] before we went into the ceasefire. There is still a considerable amount of targeting that remains. Those targets are sensitive targets\u2026 The pace at which Brad Cooper undertakes this is the pace at which the President directs him to do so, I think is certainly something that was within the realm of the White House to make that decision, but we are moving back in that direction again.\n\nHagerty on housing and affordability: Why should the consumer, why should the everyday man and woman in America pay for the inflation that Joe Biden created? That is exactly where we are. [Indexing capital gains on housing] will unleash housing stock. It will unleash supply. It is a supply-and-demand problem right now that has made housing unaffordable\u2026 Another piece I would like to highlight has to do with the regulatory front. And that would be adopting my piece of legislation that deals with taking away the $100,000 that has been the quantification of the regulatory cost on the average home in America, permitting, et cetera, that takes place. $100,000 added to the cost of a home here in America\u2014that is something we need to address first and foremost. My Freedom to Build Act would do just that. It would build on top of what we\u2019ve already done with the [ROAD to Housing Act], and I think just another area to move us in the right direction to lower costs for Americans.\n\nHagerty on Reconciliation 3.0: This is something that we\u2019ve proven that we can do. We can address the SAVE America concerns. I want to see the SAVE America Act passed. I\u2019m a co-sponsor; I\u2019ve voted for it every time. I\u2019m willing to move in every direction we can\u2014but we know we can make [budget] reconciliation work. And I think my colleagues in the House of Representatives are working away right now\u2026 I am very pleased to see us moving in that direction [\u2026] We have a short period of time here before we get into the zone of the fall election. I think the opportunity is right before us. The House is working away. I\u2019m looking forward to getting Reconciliation 3.0 underway, and I appreciate the house taking the lead and moving it forward [\u2026] [Senate Budget Committee Chairman Lindsay Graham, R-SC,] and his team, actually, and the Budget Committee have been working on Reconciliation 3.0, and I think they\u2019ve been in close contact with the House of Representatives\u2026 I think there are a number of ways to deal with it, but frankly, if [the SAVE America Act] comes over in a reconciliation bill, this is something that we have been able to pass. We\u2019ve been very successful at it. I\u2019d like to see it move in that direction, and I think we absolutely can do it.", 1, "2026-07-14T07:08:55Z", "2026-07-14T07:10:52Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-introduces-bill-refocus-nuclear-safety-reviews-advanced-reactors", "Harshbarger Introduces Bill to Refocus Nuclear Safety Reviews on Advanced Reactors", "2026-07-09", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cAs the next generation of nuclear technology approaches rapid deployment at scale, it is critical that our nation\u2019s nuclear licensing process does not mistake procedure for safety,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \u201cEvery application must complete NRC\u2019s full safety review. My bill ensures ACRS\u2019 independent secondary review is concentrated where it counts\u2014with novel, safety-significant issues\u2014and codifies provisions of President Trump's Executive Order. We cannot commit to protecting Americans if our top nuclear safety experts spend their time duplicating NRC reviews instead of providing meaningful oversight on reactor designs that demand closer scrutiny. We need to get this right so safety is never compromised, and we can get advanced reactors built here at home instead of ceding that ground to Communist China.\u201d\n\nImportantly, the bill would codify provisions of President Trump's Executive Order 14300 directing ACRS to focus its reviews on issues that are \"truly novel and noteworthy.\"", 1, "2026-07-10T08:20:04Z", "2026-07-10T08:21:18Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/photo-blackburn-joins-secretary-bessent-tennessee-elected-officials-for-unveiling-of-donald-j-trump-bridge-on-i-40-in-east-tennessee", "PHOTO: Blackburn Joins Secretary Bessent, Tennessee Elected Officials for Unveiling of Donald J. Trump Bridge on I-40 in East Tennessee", "2026-07-09", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "\u201cHundreds of thousands of people use our corridor each and every day, and the Donald J. Trump Bridge will help ensure our infrastructure meets the needs of East Tennesseans and keeps Americans moving,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cFollowing the devastating damage caused by Hurricane Helene less than two years ago, this project is a testament to the incredible progress East Tennessee communities have made to rebuild stronger than ever. I am grateful to President Trump, Secretary Bessent, and the Tennessee Department of Transportation for strengthening this crucial artery of our nation\u2019s transportation system.\u201d\n\nClick here to download this photo.", 1, "2026-07-10T08:20:04Z", "2026-07-10T08:21:18Z"], ["https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/blackburn-smith-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-prevent-veteran-suicide-by-victims-of-military-sexual-trauma", "Blackburn, Smith Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Veteran Suicide by Victims of Military Sexual Trauma", "2026-07-08", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "TN", "Marsha Blackburn", "B001243", "www.blackburn.senate.gov", "blackburn", "https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0", "scraper", "U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) introduced the Improving Personal Risk Assessments to Prevent Suicide Act to help save veterans\u2019 lives by requiring a federal study to examine the relationship between service members and veterans\u2019 experiences of military sexual trauma (MST) and suicide risk:\n\n\u201cIt is absolutely unacceptable that veterans are 50% more likely to die by suicide than the civilian population, and we must do everything in our power to protect and care for those who have risked their lives for this country,\u201d said Senator Blackburn. \u201cThe Improving Personal Risk Assessments to Prevent Suicide Act is an important step in saving service members\u2019 lives and supporting them as they heal from unimaginable trauma.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is our solemn duty to provide the highest quality care for those who serve our country,\u201d said Senator Smith. \u201cThat includes making sure servicemembers who endured military sexual trauma have access to the best clinical care and suicide prevention tools available as they work to heal. I\u2019m proud to introduce this bill to incorporate what we know about the relationship between experiencing military sexual trauma and the risk of suicide into clinical practice, improving the care that helps save lives.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nMST refers to the sexual assault or threatening sexual harassment service members may experience during service. Many service members choose not to report MST until after their service because they fear retaliation or threats from their superiors.\n\nVeterans are around 50% more likely to die by suicide than civilians, and the link between service members who experienced MST and higher risk of suicide is well-established, making this bill essential to overall veteran suicide prevention efforts.\n\nThe Improving Personal Risk Assessments to Prevent Suicide Act would require the U.S. Department of War and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to publish a study on the links between MST, intimate partner violence, and the risk of suicide.\n\nThe bill would also require the Departments to incorporate those findings into clinical assessments for identifying and treating patients at risk of suicide \u2013 the first time military sexual trauma has been included in those official clinical tools. This would improve clinical risk assessment for patients and help the Department of War, VA, and clinicians recognize MST-related risk factors before someone attempts or dies by suicide.\n\nClick here for bill text.", 1, "2026-07-10T08:20:04Z", "2026-07-10T08:21:18Z"], ["https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-announces-applications-for-service-academy-nominations-are-open", "Rep. Van Epps Announces Applications for Service Academy Nominations are Open", "2026-07-07", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Matt Van Epps", "V000139", "vanepps.house.gov", "vanepps", "https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.- Rep. Van Epps is honored to announce that applications for Service Academy nominations are now open.\n\nThe honor of attending a service academy comes with the obligation and commitment to serve in the military for a minimum of five years upon graduation. Members of Congress may nominate candidates for appointment to four of the five U.S. service academies: U.S. Military Academy (USMA), West Point, NY; the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA), Annapolis, MD; the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA), Colorado Springs, CO; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA), Kings Point, NY. The fifth service academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA), New London, CT, does not require a congressional nomination for appointment.\n\nRep. Van Epps with U.S. Naval Academy nominees\n\nRep. Van Epps said, \u201cAs a proud graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, I understand the hard work and determination needed to apply and attend the service academies. Although it is no easy task, my time at West Point is one of my greatest accomplishments, and it truly prepared me to understand the fight for freedom. I wish each applicant the best of luck throughout this process.\u201d\n\nThe deadline to apply is Thursday, October 30th, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.\n\nFor more information about the nomination process, visit Rep. Van Epps\u2019 Service Academy FAQ page here, or you can call his Franklin District office at (629) 223-6050.", 1, "2026-07-08T07:27:19Z", "2026-07-08T07:28:28Z"], ["https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-statement-one-year-anniversary-working-families-tax-cuts", "Harshbarger Statement on One-Year Anniversary of the Working Families Tax Cuts", "2026-07-04", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Diana Harshbarger", "H001086", "harshbarger.house.gov", "harshbarger", "https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) today released the following statement celebrating the one-year anniversary of the Working Families Tax Cuts, the historic tax relief law President Trump signed on July 4, 2025:\n\n\u201cAs America turns 250, the Working Families Tax Cuts are keeping the promise of 1776,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. \u201cOur Founding Fathers fought a revolution against taxation without representation because they believed Americans deserved a government that respected their freedoms and the fruits of their labor. One year after this landmark law took effect, East Tennesseans are seeing what that promise looks like in action. I was proud to help deliver meaningful tax relief for hardworking families, seniors, and small business owners, allowing them to keep more of what they earn and invest in their futures. As we commemorate our nation\u2019s 250th birthday, there's no better way to honor our founding principles than by protecting the freedom to earn, save, and build a better life.\u201d\n\nThe Working Families Tax Cuts made permanent the lower tax rates from President Trump's 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, preventing what would have been the largest tax increase in American history.\n\nAccording to a U.S. Department of the Treasury analysis, in its first year, American families and workers claimed $82 billion in individual tax relief under the Working Families Tax Cuts through the April filing deadline. The analysis found that 97% of filers received a tax cut, with 96% of those earning under $200,000 and nearly 70% earning less than $100,000.\n\nCLICK HERE to learn more about the Working Families Tax Cuts.", 1, "2026-07-05T07:55:27Z", "2026-07-05T07:56:42Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 9502, "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 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "Republican", "p1": "TN"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", 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