{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where state = \"TN\" and year = 2011 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=2B213EB6-362A-4C75-9883-20A6A2A03FEE", "Representative DesJarlais Statement on Deal to Extend the Payroll Tax Cut", "2011-12-21", "2011", "2011-12", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement upon the announcement that the House and Senate have reached a deal to extend the payroll tax break for two months:\n\n\u201cThe House passed a responsible, bipartisan bill that provided a year-long payroll tax reduction; extended and reformed unemployment insurance; preserved senior\u2019s access to healthcare by preventing a 27% cut to doctors treating Medicare patients; and advanced measures that will boost private-sector job creation.\n\n\u201cRather than use this bill as a template to work from, the Senate simply refused to take part in the normal legislative process. It is disappointing that since the Senate failed to do their job, we will now have to have this debate again in two months. I will continue to fight for long-term solutions that will provide economic certainty for both American workers and American businesses.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:13:05Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=A2F0D695-8ED1-4705-8781-2D462CE31641", "Representative DesJarlais Votes Against the Omnibus Appropriations Package", "2011-12-16", "2011", "2011-12", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after voting against the end of year omnibus package:\n\n\u201cI have made it clear from the beginning that until Harry Reid and Senate Democrats can pass a budget, we need to work off the spending levels set forth in the House-passed 2012 budget. The Path to Prosperity is a credible and commonsense proposal that would put our nation on the path to balanced budgets and debt reduction.\n\n\u201cUnfortunately, the spending levels set forth in today\u2019s omnibus package exceed those in the Path to Prosperity and therefore I could not vote in favor of it.\n\n\u201cIt is impossible to get our nation\u2019s fiscal house in order unless we have a budget framework to work from. House Republicans have done their job and passed a budget, it is now time for Senate Democrats to do the same.\n\n\u201cMy constituents sent me to Washington to make the difficult spending decisions, and I\u2019m more than willing to make them. Continuing Resolutions and omnibus packages are not the sort of bold action that the people in Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District expect. I will continue to fight for long-term solutions to rein in Washington\u2019s out-of-control spending.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:13:05Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=3AAB3392-7AB0-4F03-97A8-28CBA7239CC7", "Representative DesJarlais Statement on the United States Officially Ending its Mission in Iraq", "2011-12-14", "2011", "2011-12", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN04) issued the following statement regarding today\u2019s announcement that United States military officially declared an end to its mission in Iraq:\n\n\u201cWith our mission in Iraq coming to a conclusion, we should all pause to honor the brave men and women in uniform who so courageously put their lives on the line fighting for our nation in places like Fallujah, Baghdad and Tikrit. Let us also remember to give thanks to their families and vow to never forget those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of freedom.\n\n\u201cAs our efforts in Iraq close, we must continue to focus on the ongoing war in Afghanistan. It is critical that we ensure our troops on the ground have the necessary resources they need to accomplish their objectives and win this war.\n\n\u201cFinally, on this day let us remember those who fought during the first Gulf War over 20 years ago. We have not forgotten the sacrifices they made.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:13:05Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=14E827F1-907D-416D-9FC1-CAE1439812D1", "Representative Scott DesJarlais Votes in Favor of the Middle Class Tax Relief & Job Creation Act", "2011-12-12", "2011", "2011-12", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "On Tuesday, December 13, 2011, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) voted in favor of H.R. 3630, The Middle Class Tax Relief & Job Creation Act. This legislation addresses a number of provisions that are scheduled to expire at the end of this year. Specifically, this bill includes a fully paid-for extension of the payroll tax holiday, substantial reforms to the unemployment insurance (UI) program and a two-year freeze on cuts to doctors providing care to our nation\u2019s seniors and disabled enrolled in Medicare. Additionally, this legislation requires the president to make a decision on the approval the Keystone XL Pipeline within 60 days of enactment.\n\nRepresentative DesJarlais issued the following statement upon passage of this bill:\n\n\u201cToday I cast my vote in favor of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2011. This legislation contains several important measures that will be of significant benefit to my constituents in Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District.\n\n\u201cFor starters, this bill will extend the payroll tax holiday for one year for hardworking Americans. The extension of this tax cut will allow my constituents to keep more of their paychecks to invest as they see fit, rather than forfeiting that money over to a federal government that has shown no fiscal restraint when it comes to spending taxpayer dollars on wasteful government programs and policies.\n\n\u201cWhile today\u2019s legislation extends unemployment benefits, it does so while making significant reforms to the program. Certainly, we are a kind and caring nation. We are a nation that understands that at times people need a little help to get back on their feet. But when individuals simply choose not to work and take advantage of these limited resources, it leaves less for those who actually need this type of assistance. The Middle Class Tax Relief & Job Creation Act will lower the 99-week cap on benefits to 59 weeks and put in place requirements that will ensure that individuals are actively looking for employment.\n\n\u201cAs both a physician and a Member of Congress, I\u2019m committed to preserving and protecting Medicare for our seniors. Unless we prevent the scheduled 27% reduction to the Medicare reimbursement rate for physicians, seniors will have an increasingly difficult time finding quality care. Doctors will simply not be able to afford to treat Medicare beneficiaries if this cut takes place. The GOP Doctors Caucus, which I\u2019m a member of, is committed to reforming the flawed SGR formula, but until we find a permanent fix, we cannot allow these deep cuts to physician reimbursements.\n\n\u201cFinally, this bill will require the president to put politics aside and make a decision on the Keystone XL Pipeline. The president is trying to avoid making a decision on issuing a permit for the pipeline until after the 2012 elections. Americans should not be made to wait a minute longer than necessary for projects that will create badly needed jobs. The construction of the Keystone Pipeline alone could create up to 20,000 American jobs, while reducing our dependency on oil from hostile nations. It is important to note that this legislation will not force the president to approve the pipeline, only to make a decision on whether or not he will allow the project to move forward.\n\n\u201cI hope that Senate Majority Leader Reid will put the American people before politics and allow this legislation to have a fair vote on the Senate floor. These are commonsense, bipartisan proposals that will give the American people a badly needed tax break, reform a government program that is rife with waste and abuse, ensure that seniors continue to have access to quality medical care and create badly needed American jobs.\u201d\n\n*Please see attached document for additional information on the Middle Class Tax Relief & Job Creation Act\n\n*This legislation passed the House with bipartisan support: 234-193.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:13:05Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=3CC17620-76E4-432D-9254-C4F67469635C", "Representative Scott DesJarlais Announces Winning YouCut Bill", "2011-12-11", "2011", "2011-12", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) announced that \u201cStop Rewarding States for Recruiting Additional Food Stamp Recipients\u201d was the winner of last week\u2019s YouCut program. The congressman is now in the process of drafting legislation that will prevent the federal government from issuing bonuses to states for signing up additional food stamp recipients.\n\nCurrently, the Department of Agriculture's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly known as the Food Stamp program) pays state governments bonuses \u2013 with taxpayer dollars \u2013 for recruiting additional people to sign up for food stamps. Each year, states with the highest percentage of eligible participants enroll in the program and split $48 million in bonus funds. Additionally, the department awards another $6 million in bonus money to states that are the fastest at signing up new program applicants.\n\nEliminating this program will at least to $480 million dollars over ten years.\n\n\u201cThe fact that our government rewards states for recruiting individuals to be on food stamps is not just wasteful, it is ridiculous,\u201d said Representative Scott DesJarlais. \u201cWhy does the federal government need to incentivize states to spend taxpayer dollars with more taxpayer dollars? Government at all levels should strive to spend funds as efficiently as possible without the need for additional taxpayer funded bonuses.\u201d\n\n\u201cI want to thank my constituents for taking time to participate in the YouCut program. I\u2019m of the firm belief that the solutions to our nation\u2019s problems will be uncovered by directly involving the American people in the legislative process. Programs like YouCut give us another way to listen to the individuals that we represent so that we can bring their voices to Washington,\u201d noted DesJarlais.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:13:05Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=660892CD-4A37-463A-A6E0-1C7A262FBBE8", "Rep. DesJarlais Praises House Passage of REINS Act to Address Excessive Regulations that Hurt Job Creators", "2011-12-07", "2011", "2011-12", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) released the following statement after the House passed the Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act (H.R. 10), a bill that reins in out of control federal regulations by requiring congressional approval for any federal regulation with an economic impact of $100 million or more.\n\n\u201cIn meeting with more than thirty business owners during my Tennessee Job Creators Tour, I can say with certainty that needless bureaucratic red tape and excessive government regulations are hamstringing their ability to grow and create badly needed jobs,\u201d said Representative DesJarlais. \u201cIn times of economic uncertainty, we should be focusing our efforts on empowering job creators \u2013 not increasing the size of Washington\u2019s regulatory authority at the expense of small businesses. The REINS Act will improve the accountability of the regulatory process by requiring regulations with a substantial economic impact to be subject to congressional approval instead of allowing unaccountable bureaucrats to issue new rules without any oversight.\"\n\nThe Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act:\n\n1.Requires Congress to take an up-or-down vote on regulations that have an economic impact of $100 million or more before they can be imposed on the American people and businesses;\n\n2. Stops the practice of allowing unelected federal officials impose huge costs on the economy and American people through burdensome regulations;\n\n3. Reins in the costly overreach of federal agencies that stifles job creation and hinders economic growth;\n\n4. Restores the authority to impose regulations to those who are accountable to the voters, their elected representatives in Congress.\n\n5. According to the Small Business Administration, federal regulations cost our economy $1.75 trillion per year.\n\n6. The Obama Administration\u2019s December 2010 report on federal regulations listed more than 4,200 regulatory actions under development by federal agencies.\n\n7. In 2011, the Obama administration is expected to propose more than 200 regulations costing over $100 million each. Seven of those new regulations will cost the economy more than $1 billion each.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:13:05Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=314C1F31-57C5-4469-AAD4-1EDB17CC42F3", "DesJarlais Statement on 70th Anniversary of Attack on Pearl Harbor", "2011-12-06", "2011", "2011-12", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement on the 70th anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor:\n\nOur nation places special importance and reverence on certain dates: July 4th, September 11th and today, December 7th.\n\nIn the early morning hours of December 7th, 1941, our nation was attacked deliberately at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii leading the United States\u2019 entry into World War II.\n\nIn response to this brutal attack, millions of Americans answered the nation\u2019s call and enlisted in our armed forces. This greatest generation selflessly put their lives on the line defending our freedom in the faraway lands of Africa, Europe and the Pacific Islands. At home our fellow American\u2019s did their part to ensure our success. Women joined the workforce to replace the men fighting overseas, families rationed essential products and businesses redesigned their factories to build machinery for the war effort.\n\nIt this indomitable spirit and willingness to sacrifice that is ingrained in the in the collective conscious of our nation that serves to remind me that there is no obstacle too great for the American people to overcome.\n\nIn the fires of Pearl Harbor a nation was forged that would show the world that the principles of freedom, democracy and liberty will always triumph over evil and oppression.\n\nOn this day, let us not only remember those who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor, but give thanks to all who have or are currently wearing the uniform of the United States Military. We owe them much more than words can adequately describe.\n\nGod bless America and God bless our troops.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:13:05Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=74D61C6D-9750-4491-8471-A01760E11DE0", "Representative Scott DesJarlais Tapped to Lead this Week's House Republican YouCut Program", "2011-11-29", "2011", "2011-11", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "This week (November 30th- December 7th), Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) has been selected to lead House Republican\u2019s YouCut program. YouCut is an effort launched by Majority Leader Eric Cantor and House Republicans over a year ago as a way for the American people to play a direct role in cutting wasteful government spending.\n\nIndividuals can visit the YouCut Web site (https://www.majorityleader.gov/YouCut) where they will have seven days to vote to cut one of three wasteful government programs. These programs include:\n\n1. Stop rewarding States for recruiting additional Food Stamp recipients\n\nPotential Savings: up to $180 million over ten years\n\nThe Department of Agriculture\u2019s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly known as the Food Stamp program) pays state governments bonuses for recruiting additional people to sign up for food stamps. Each year, states with the highest percentage of eligible participants enrolled in the program split $12 million in bonus funds. Additionally, the Department awards another $6 million in bonus money to states that are the fastest at signing up new program applicants. As of August, 2011, nearly 46 million Americans were on food stamps, or 15 percent of the population. Benefit costs were over $71 billion between September of 2010 and August of 2011. Program participation has grown steadily since the economic downturn began, and increased by 8 percent in 2011. There is no need to pay states for increasing the number of food stamp recipients they enroll in the program.\n\n2.Terminate \u201cenvironmental literacy\u201d programs run by the Forest Service\n\nPotential Savings -- up to $50 million over ten years\n\nThe Forest Service runs numerous programs aimed at schoolchildren and classroom teachers under the rubric of \u201cenvironmental literacy\u201d or \u201cconservation education.\u201d These programs include such initiatives as \u201cGreen Schools\u201d which \u201cempowers students to lead the movement of sustainability and environmental responsibility at school, at home and in their community.\u201d While students may benefit from some of the outdoors activities these programs provide, using taxpayer dollars to generate issue-oriented advocacy among school children and college students is inappropriate.\n\n3.Eliminate production of duplicative workplace safety training materials\n\nPotential Savings \u2013 up to $107 million over ten years\n\nThe Department of Labor\u2019s Occupational Safety and Health Administration [OSHA] provides more than $10 million annually in grants to labor organizations and community groups to produce workplace safety training materials for employees and employers. Under the Susan Harwood Grant program, hundreds of sets of training materials have been developed since 2003 for the construction industry on avoidance of falls, for industries dealing with hazardous chemicals, and for farmworkers on avoiding injuries when working with farm machinery. Many of the annual grants repeat subject matters covered in training materials previously produced by earlier grantees. The repetitive nature of many of the subject matters suggest that the program is failing to widely disseminate products funded by the earlier grants, and instead simply acting as a funding source for grantees.\n\nRep. DesJarlais will announce the winning program on December 8th and introduce legislation eliminating that particular government program.\n\n\u201cSince the beginning of the 112th Congress, I\u2019ve been proud to introduce, cosponsor and vote on numerous pieces of commonsense legislation that will cut wasteful government spending in order to give small businesses the confidence they need to start creating jobs,\u201d said Representative DesJarlais. \u201cAs a Member of Congress, I believe that the best solutions to our nation\u2019s problems often come directly from the people that we represent. YouCut is an excellent tool in allowing our constituents to get more involved in the process of getting Washington\u2019s spending under control. I look forward to having my constituents in Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District join Americans across the country in making their voices heard.\u201d\n\n\"At a time when our national debt exceeds $15 trillion and Washington borrows more than 40 cents of every dollar it spends, it is more important than ever that we start getting America's fiscal house in order and cut wasteful spending. YouCut is an innovative program that allows hard-working taxpayers around the country to help choose how Washington cuts wasteful spending and allows them to track the legislative process from start to finish. I applaud Representative DesJarlais for his efforts to keep federal spending in check and leading the YouCut program this week,\" said House Majority Leader Eric Cantor.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:58Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=758D5C0A-BC6F-4528-9079-63396DBCB795", "Representative DesJarlais Votes for Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution", "2011-11-17", "2011", "2011-11", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) today voted in favor of H.J. Res. 2: Proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States.\n\nThe following statement can be attributed to Rep. DesJarlais:\n\n\u201cRecent polls show that 74% of Americans are in favor of a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution. With that level of overwhelming support, it amazes me that many of my colleagues could vote against this bill today and claim they are putting the American people before political interests. I hope that voters will take a long, hard look at what Members of Congress refused to support this commonsense measure to get our nation\u2019s fiscal house in order and hold them accountable.\n\n\u201cAfter casting 859 votes in the United States House of Representatives, I can honestly say that the failure of this bill hurt the most. I\u2019ve never walked off the House Floor with such a heavy heart.\n\n\u201cAlthough I am deeply disappointed that today\u2019s legislation fell short of the two-thirds majority needed for passage, I will continue to fight for a Balanced Budget Amendment to our Constitution. It is the right thing to do.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:58Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=698F0AFB-6CC0-4E51-B019-9F35B0F238C1", "Representative DesJarlais Statement on October Jobs Report", "2011-11-04", "2011", "2011-11", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement in response to the October Jobs Report. Since President Obama took office, the nation\u2019s unemployment rate has gone from 7.8 percent to 9.1 percent and the number of unemployed Americans has increased by two million. Additionally, the federal debt has increased from $10.6 trillion to $14.9 trillion.\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s jobs numbers are a grim reminder that President Obama\u2019s failed economic policies have done little to create jobs in this country. For over two years now our nation\u2019s unemployment rate has exceeded 9 percent despite the passage of the president\u2019s nearly trillion dollar stimulus package that he assured us would keep unemployment under 8 percent.\n\n\u201cNow, we see President Obama back on the campaign trail promoting even more government spending through a second stimulus package, which he calls a \u201cjobs plan.\u201d Unfortunately for him, it seems that even Congressional Democrats have begun to distance themselves from this president\u2019s misguided economic policies and have been more than hesitant to embrace his stimulus package. Perhaps they are just as alarmed as I am that this president has already increased the amount of debt per person from $34,731 to $47,796.\n\n\u201cHouse Republicans understand that we need real solutions that will give America\u2019s job-creators the tools and confidence they need to start creating jobs in local communities. I\u2019ve visited more than 40 businesses as part of my \u201cTennessee Job Creators Tour\u201d and the message I get from them is clear: stop over-spending, stop over-taxing and, above all, stop over-regulating.\n\n\u201cTo date, House Republicans have passed more than 20 bipartisan jobs-bills specifically aimed at creating an environment that will allow small businesses to grow and hire. Unfortunately, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has blocked these commonsense pieces of legislation from even being voted on. Rather than continuing to push for more government spending that will do little to spur job creation, President Obama should encourage Senate Democrats to take up the House-passed jobs bills.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:58Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=5A41B93D-4405-41BD-BE7E-6090997A4C8C", "Representative DesJarlais Cosponsors \"One Percent Spending Reduction Act of 2011\"", "2011-10-25", "2011", "2011-10", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) has signed on as cosponsor of H.R. 1848, the \u201cOne Percent Spending Reduction Act,\u201d introduced by Representative Connie Mack (FL-14). This plan, commonly referred to as the \u201cMack Penny Plan,\u201d would balance the federal budget in 2019 by eliminating one penny out of every dollar spent for six years and then cap spending at 18% of gross domestic product (GDP) in the 7th year. In total, the \u201cMack Penny Plan\u201d is estimated to save taxpayers around $7.5 trillion over ten years.\n\n\u201cThis plan will force the federal government to do something that it should have done a long time ago \u2013 prioritize its spending. While the Penny Plan would ensure that we make the real cuts that the American people expect, it also provides flexibility by allowing Congress and the president to identify where those cuts come from as long as they equal 1% of total spending. Wasteful programs could see significant cuts, while programs that run efficiently may not be cut at all,\u201d said Representative Scott DesJarlais. \u201cSurely, with trillion dollar deficits and rampant waste, fraud and abuse, we can at least cut one percent out of every federal dollar spent? Individuals in Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District have had to cut much more out of their own budgets and it\u2019s beyond time for Washington to do the same.\u201d\n\nKey Provisions of the One Percent Spending Reduction Act of 2011:\n\nCuts federal spending by 1% each year for 6 years;\n\nCaps spending at 18% of GDP in the 7th year;\n\nBalances the federal budget in the 8th year; and\n\nSaves taxpayers $7.5 trillion over 10 years.\n\nEnforcement of Spending Cuts: The one percent spending cuts would be achieved one of two ways: either 1) Congress and the President work together to enact program reforms and cut federal spending by one percent each year; or 2) If Congress and the President fail to do so, the bill triggers automatic, across-the-board spending cuts to ensure the one percent reduction is realized.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m grateful that Scott has signed on as a cosponsor of this legislation. His strong record of fighting for commonsense fiscal reforms is exactly the type of leadership that we need and I look forward to working with him in moving the Mack Penny Plan through congress,\u201d said Representative Connie Mack. \u201cClearly his constituents in Tennessee are telling him the same things that mine are in Florida \u2013 get Washington\u2019s spending problem under control.\u201d\n\n\u201cThere is absolutely no way that we can continue to borrow 40 cents out of every dollar to finance the federal government\u2019s reckless spending binge. This legislation is yet another item in a long list of good ideas that House Republicans have to get our nation\u2019s fiscal house in order. The Democrat\u2019s strategy of taxing and spending has led to nothing but trillion dollar deficits and a downgrade of our credit rating by Moody\u2019s,\u201d noted DesJarlais. \u201cI hope my Democratic colleagues have finally gotten the message that the American people expect them to work with House Republicans in enacting real spending reforms like the One Percent Spending Reduction Act of 2011.\u201d\n\nClick here to see a video of Representative Mack discussing the \u201cPenny Plan\u201d with Sean Hannity.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:51Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=3A7400EF-0408-4253-836D-BF1F0E9630F4", "Representative DesJarlais Returns from Healthcare-Focused Congressional Delegation Trip to Afghanistan", "2011-10-12", "2011", "2011-10", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) returned on Tuesday, October 11, from a five day Congressional Delegation trip to Afghanistan. The purpose of this trip was to learn more about the healthcare services provided for our nation\u2019s armed forces from forward operating medical facilities in Afghanistan. Rep. DesJarlais, who traveled with members of the GOP Doctor\u2019s Caucus and Veterans Affairs Committee, had an opportunity to visit several medical facilities and assess the conditions of troops in the field.\n\nThe following quote can be attributed to Rep. DesJarlais:\n\n\u201cIt is hard to even put into words just how proud I am of our brave men and women in uniform. While visiting our troops serving in Afghanistan I was incredibly impressed by the level of professionalism and dedication they displayed despite adverse conditions. Without a doubt, we have the finest fighting force in the world and we should take a moment every single day to give thanks for these brave individuals who are willing to put their lives on the line to protect our freedom.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m also pleased to report that our medical resources in Afghanistan are second to none. I had a chance to view where soldiers arrive from the battlefield, like the trauma units at the hospital at Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan. I also had an opportunity to visit Landstuhl Medical Center in Ramstein, Germany where wounded warriors receive further care and are ultimately transported home. As a physician, I was extremely impressed by the quality of these facilities and I hope that the families of our deployed servicemen and women can take comfort in the fact that their loved ones are receiving the best medical care possible. In fact, we learned that if a wounded soldier is transported within one hour from the site of injury to a hospital, they have over a 95% chance of survival. This is made possible, in part, by numerous gifted surgeons like Dr. James Richardson of Columbia, TN and Dr. William Obremskey of Vanderbilt University, who have volunteered to serve their country by caring for our troops overseas.\n\n\u201cThis visit truly reinforced my appreciation for all that our military does. Their selflessness and willingness to make sacrifices for the good of our nation is inspirational. They are absolutely America\u2019s finest and I will continue to work to ensure that these heroes always receive the highest quality of care. May God bless America and may God bless our troops.\u201d\n\nClick here to download photos of Rep. DesJarlais\u2019 trip to Afghanistan.\n\n*Other members of the delegation who took part in the October 6, 2011 trip included Rep. Phil Roe (TN-01), Rep. Jeff Denham (CA-19), Rep. Dan Benishek (MI-01) and Rep. Tim Walz (MN-01).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:51Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=F50B456B-C5EB-4A6F-82B3-E8EBD9EBD45A", "Representative DesJarlais Votes Against Short-Term Continuing Resolution", "2011-10-04", "2011", "2011-10", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "On Tuesday, October 4, 2011, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) released the following statement after voting against H.R.2608, Continuing Appropriations Act, 2012, which would fund the federal government until November 18th, 2011:\n\n\u201cToday marks 888 days since the Democrat-controlled Senate has passed a budget \u2013 one of its fundamental legislative responsibilities. As a result, we have had to run the government on these stop-gap measures that continue that add economic uncertainty and prevent the private sector from creating jobs.\n\n\u201cThe House did its job and passed the Path to Prosperity, a commonsense budget that will decrease both spending and the size of government so that we can finally get our nation\u2019s fiscal house in order. I was proud to vote in favor of this legislation.\n\n\u201cI stand very firm on my belief that until the Senate can pass their own budget, they need to adopt ours. Unfortunately, this continuing resolution would fund the government through November 18, 2011 at an annual level of $24 billion above the House-passed Ryan budget.\n\n\u201cWe must not capitulate in our mission to get our nation\u2019s reckless spending under control. By not sticking to the spending parameters put forth in the Path to Prosperity, we run the risk of sending the message to job creators that Washington is still not willing to get serious in tackling its deficits and debt.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:51Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=8DE44A97-6480-4D53-8BFD-82AE1434C612", "Representative DesJarlais Votes Against Amended Continuing Resolution", "2011-09-22", "2011", "2011-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "On Thursday, September 23, 2011, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) released the following statement after voting against the amended Continuing Resolution:\n\n\u201cAfter reviewing the updated Continuing Resolution, I still did not find that it contained a sufficient level of spending reductions. Clearly we need to get our nation\u2019s fiscal house in order and the only way to do that is to institute serious spending cuts and reforms.\n\n\u201cI voted in favor of the Path to Prosperity because it is a credible plan that will finally get our nation\u2019s debt under control. Unfortunately, this Continuing Resolution exceeded the spending levels that were set forth in that budget.\n\n\u201cI remain committed to making the tough spending decisions necessary to put our nation back on the right fiscal track and give employers the confidence to start creating jobs.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:45Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=6D729079-2EFC-4488-8D13-D68A81B56E4F", "Representative DesJarlais Votes Against Continuing Resolution", "2011-09-21", "2011", "2011-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "On Wednesday, September 21, 2011, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) released the following statement after voting against H.J. Res. 79: Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2012.\n\nThe following quote can be attributed to Rep. DesJarlais:\n\n\u201cFirst and foremost, I\u2019m terribly disappointed that we are still having to vote on continuing resolutions due to the Democrat controlled Senate\u2019s inability to pass a budget after almost 900 days. Failing to meet this most fundamental duty is completely unacceptable and I hope that voters will hold Senate Democrats accountable for their inaction and lack of leadership.\n\n\u201cIn April, the House of Representatives passed the Paul Ryan budget. I voted in favor of this legislation as I firmly believe that it provides a credible, long-term blueprint for how to get our nation\u2019s debt and deficits under control, as well as put our economy on a more prosperous course.\n\n\u201cAlthough I was disappointed that the Senate did not pass this budget \u2013 while still not producing any budget of their own \u2013 House Republicans have consistently introduced and passed spending bills that are in line with the spending levels put forth the in the Ryan Budget.\n\n\u201cUnfortunately, this current Continuing Resolution, which will fund the government through November 18, 2011, exceeds the discretionary spending caps put forth in the Ryan plan.\n\n\u201cBy failing to honor the spending levels set forth in the Ryan Budget, we are sending a clear message that Washington continues to be unwilling to get serious when it comes to federal spending. This will only further degrade the private sector\u2019s confidence in our economic outlook and prevent small businesses from creating badly needed jobs.\n\n\u201cMy constituents expect more. They expect Congress to put forth and implement real solutions to get our nation out of a $14.74 trillion dollar debt. They don\u2019t want the government to borrow more, they don\u2019t want the government to spend more and they certainly don\u2019t want the government to tax more. It is time to make serious spending cuts and shrink the size of government.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:45Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=5E93B2F3-6CC1-43EB-BA1A-DF734880EF26", "Representative DesJarlais Statement on Passage of Protecting Jobs from Government Interference Act", "2011-09-15", "2011", "2011-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) released the following statement today upon passage of the Protecting Jobs from Government Interference Act (H.R. 2587) in the House of Representatives:\n\n\u201cThe fact that a government agency could have the ability to dictate where a private business can operate is shocking. With over 14 million Americans out of work, there is absolutely no reason that Washington should be taking any action that would prevent the private sector from creating jobs.\n\n\u201cIt is simply inexcusable for the NLRB to threaten to destroy thousands of new jobs by preventing Boeing from opening a new plant in South Carolina. As a citizen of Tennessee, which like South Carolina is Right to Work State, I\u2019m extremely concerned about this setting a dangerous precedent.\n\n\u201cPassing this legislation today is a critical step to preventing NLRB from dictating where businesses can expand based purely on political reasons. I encourage the Senate to pass this bill and join House Republicans in fostering an environment that will allow the private sector to grow and create jobs.\u201d\n\nEarlier this year, the Oversight and Government Reform Committee, which Rep. DesJarlais is a member of, opened an investigation into action by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) that potentially jeopardizes Boeing\u2019s work to open a new manufacturing facility in South Carolina and create thousands of jobs. The Committee held a June field hearing in Charleston to hear from workers and job creators about the likely impacts of this action", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:45Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=9F61471A-4034-4450-99AB-2E7E38945DCF", "Representative DesJarlais Introduces Employer Free Choice Act", "2011-09-11", "2011", "2011-09", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) has introduced H.R.2854, the Employer Free Choice Act. This legislation will repeal a rule promulgated by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) forcing employers to prominently display posters containing information on workers\u2019 rights to unionize and bargain collectively. If not repealed, businesses will be required to have the postings completed by November 14, 2011.\n\n\u201cIt is unacceptable for the NLRB to force businesses to display posters that serve as nothing more than a de facto endorsement of unionization by the federal government,\u201d said Representative DesJarlais. \u201cIf employers want to distribute information on the ways employees can unionize then that should be their choice \u2013 not Washington bureaucrats. Clearly, this arbitrary mandate is simply another favor for big labor made possible by their friends in the Obama administration.\u201d\n\nThis legislation came, in part, from input that Representative DesJarlais received during a Tennessee Job Creators Tour stop in Manchester, Tennessee. Rep. DesJarlais visited VIAM Manufacturing, INC., to meet with their executives to discuss ways that Washington is holding back their ability to create jobs. During a roundtable discussion, Keith Hayes, Executive Vice-President of VIAM Manufacturing, voiced concerns over the recent announcement by the NLRB.\n\n\u201cWe take great pride in making sure that our employees fully understand their rights, which includes the right to union representation and the right to choose that representation. We do not need, nor is there a reason for the federal government to force us to advertise on behalf of unions in our facility,\u201d said Keith Hayes.\n\nTo deliver the regulatory relief job creators in Tennessee deserve, Representative DesJarlais launched his Tennessee Job Creators tour as part of AmericanJobCreators.com. AmericanJobCreators.com allows businesses to play a direct role in ensuring that Washington delivers more efficient, effective regulations that will help them thrive and create jobs. By visiting AmericanJobCreators.com, taxpayers can identify federal government regulations they\u2019ve encountered\u2013 either as a business owner or an employee \u2013 that impede the growth and success of their business.\n\nAccompanying Representative DesJarlais on his visit to VIAM Manufacturing, INC. and helping to lead the conversation on this ruling was Judd Matheny (R-Tullahoma), Speaker Pro Tempore of the Tennessee House of Representatives.\n\n\"The issue of organizing is one best left to employees and the businesses concerned. A Federal mandate to guarantee one person or group's rights over another\u2019s is un-American and another example of an intrusion into the rights of the individual states,\" said Rep. Judd Matheny.\n\n\u201cBoth Judd and I agree that Washington should not capriciously dictate how local businesses choose to communicate with their employees regarding unionization issues,\u201d said Rep. DesJarlais. \u201cI thank Judd for his leadership on this issue and I look forward to continuing to work with him and the job creators in my district to foster an environment where businesses can grow and create jobs for Tennesseans.\u201d\n\nThis legislation has been referred to the Committee on Education and the Workforce, of which Representative DesJarlais is a member.\n\n\u201cMillions of American workers are unemployed, yet the Obama labor board continues to pursue an activist agenda that is killing jobs and harming the competitiveness of our workforce. If President Obama won't hold them accountable, Congress will. I want to thank Dr. DesJarlais for bringing this proposal forward and for his commitment to reversing the job-destroying agenda of the Obama NLRB,\u201d said Representative John Kline, Chairman of the Education and the Workforce Committee.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:45Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=19B91001-E9BC-4759-A77D-F1F0035A9798", "Representative DesJarlais Visits Richland LLC in Pulaski, Tennessee as Part of Tennessee Job Creators Tour", "2011-08-30", "2011", "2011-08", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Creating jobs for Tennesseans is a top priority for Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04). In March, the Congressman embarked on a district-wide \u201cTennessee Job Creators\u201d tour as part of an effort to receive direct feedback from local business owners and workers. During this fact-finding tour, Rep. DesJarlais will be meeting with businesses of all sizes from a variety of industries, to receive direct feedback from proven job-creators in the Fourth Congressional District on what federal policies are helping or hurting businesses as they strive to expand and create jobs.\n\n\u201cDuring these difficult economic times, we simply cannot afford to let Washington bureaucrats impose unnecessary regulations that stifle job creation,\u201d said Representative DesJarlais. \u201cIt is my hope that by working with those who have a proven record of creating jobs, we can find the right role for Washington \u2013 a role that helps businesses to thrive. It is critical that we find solutions that will increase the number of jobs and not the size of the federal government.\u201d\n\nOn Monday, August 29, Rep. DesJarlais will be in Pulaski, Tennessee to meet with Richland LLC.\n\nRichland LLC\n\n1905 Mines Road\n\nPulaski, TN 38478\n\n2:30 \u2013 3:15 p.m. CST\n\n*These events are open press, but are not open to the general public.\n\nAdditionally, the congressman is participating in the \u201cListening to America\u2019s Job Creators\u201d program launched by the Committee on Oversight and Government Affairs, one of the three committees that DesJarlais is serves on. Individuals in the Fourth District that are interested in joining the conversation job creation can provide input by visiting the congressman\u2019s Web site, www.DesJarlais.house.gov, and clicking on the \u201cListening to America\u2019s Job Creators\u201d button on the homepage. A form will be provided where constituents can identify federal government regulations they\u2019ve encountered\u2013 either as a business owner or an employee \u2013 that impede the growth and success of their business.\n\nAt the conclusion of the \u201cTennessee Job Creators\u201d tour, Congressman DesJarlais\u2019 office will be compiling a report using information gained from business owners in his district, as well as from submissions received through the Web site, to present to his colleagues on the Oversight and Government Reform Committee.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:39Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=7837F47E-E122-43FF-A420-DFED22ED314D", "DesJarlais, Fleischmann, Corker, Alexander Welcome DOT Proposal to Eliminate Costly Road Sign Replacement Deadlines", "2011-08-29", "2011", "2011-08", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "U.S. Senators Bob Corker, R-Tenn., and Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., and U.S. Representatives Scott DesJarlais, R-Tenn. 4th, and Chuck Fleischmann, R-Tenn.3rd, welcomed the U.S. Department of Transportation\u2019s proposal today eliminating numerous compliance deadlines for replacing old road signs that would have imposed an unfunded mandate on states, costing Tennessee an estimated $50 million. Under the new proposal, communities would only be required to comply with new sign visibility standards when replacing old signs, rather than by arbitrary 2015 and 2018 deadlines. In June, Corker and Alexander introduced legislation (S.1216) to stop this unfunded mandate, giving state and local governments the flexibility to replace signs in accordance with the new standards at the end of their normal life cycle. DesJarlais and Fleischmann introduced companion legislation (H.R.2257) in the House of Representatives.\n\n\u201cAs I\u2019ve traveled throughout Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District, one of the biggest concerns voiced by my constituents is that overregulation by the federal government is taking away from already limited resources. Forcing cash-strapped local governments to arbitrarily replace functioning street signs is a perfect example of how federal regulations often lead to unnecessary expenses. I\u2019m proud to have worked with Senators Alexander and Corker and Representative Fleischmann in addressing this issue and am glad that our efforts helped in leading to the abolishment of this unfunded mandate. It is my hope that today\u2019s proposal is a sign that this administration is finally willing to join us in getting serious about addressing burdensome federal regulations and their unintended consequences,\u201d Rep. DesJarlais said.\n\n\u201cI am pleased that the Obama Administration has heard the calls from local and state governments and Congress, and has waived these burdensome deadlines. Finally the Administration has acknowledged in at least one area that federal rules and regulations can have a very costly impact on local governments. I\u2019m also pleased that the first bill that I introduced played a role in bringing attention to this particular overreach by the federal government. Now, I hope that the Administration will look just as critically at the thousands of other rules and regulations that cost taxpayers dearly and stifles private sector growth,\u201d Rep. Fleischmann said.\n\n\u201cEveryone wants our roads to be as safe as possible, but these arbitrary deadlines assigned by Washington amounted to an unfunded mandate on local governments at a time when they can least afford it. The Department of Transportation\u2019s decision to address our concerns and eliminate these costly deadlines is a common sense one that will help local governments in Tennessee and around the country who are making tough decisions to balance their budgets. Rather than force Tennessee communities to shell out $50 million they don\u2019t have, it\u2019s much more reasonable to let them replace road signs only when they need to be replaced. I thank Senator Alexander, Congressmen Fleischmann and DesJarlais, Governor Haslam, and all the state and local officials who supported this successful effort,\u201d Sen. Corker said.\n\n\u201cI'm glad the administration has seen the light and agrees with us. Tennessee\u2019s state and local governments shouldn't have to pay for thisburdensome, $50 million unfunded mandate,\u201d Sen. Alexander said.\n\nDOT\u2019s new proposal amends the Federal Highway Administration\u2019s (FHWA) updated federal rules governing minimum nighttime visibility standards (known as \u201cretroreflectivity\u201d) for road signs. Under the existing rules, state and local governments are required to present plans for overhauling their old signs by January 22, 2012. Traffic safety signs, such as stop and yield signs, must be replaced by 2015, and all signs must be replaced by 2018. According to estimates from the Tennessee County Highway Officials Association, meeting the current compliance deadlines would cost local governments at least $50 million in Tennessee alone.\n\nSeveral Tennessee localities submitted public comments detailing the excessive compliance costs imposed by the proposed road sign rules.\n\nOn May 30, Governor Haslam signed a resolution, HJR 304, passed by the Tennessee General Assembly calling for Congress to fully fund the FHWA\u2019s mandate.\n\nThe Tennessee County Highway Officials Association has said, \u201cIt is financially impossible for Tennessee county governments to comply with this unfunded FHWA mandate. Tennessee county governments\u2019 inability to comply with the FHWA sign mandates indirectly exposes all units of local governments to potential litigation. One of the biggest concerns for county governments regarding program mandates is the threat of lawsuits for non-compliance.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:39Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=AA934D40-8FA5-432B-8DB7-75C50DDB0BF9", "Representative DesJarlais Launches Senior Listening Tour", "2011-08-28", "2011", "2011-08", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) remains committed to maintaining an ongoing conversation with his constituents on important legislative issues being debated in Washington. To help in soliciting feedback from the individuals he represents, Rep. DesJarlais launched his \u201cTennessee Job Creators\u201d tour, \u201cListening to Tennessee\u201d tour and telephone town hall series. During these events, DesJarlais has been able to receive guidance and feedback from his constituents on how to best represent them in the United States House of Representatives.\n\nTo build upon the success of these efforts, Rep. DesJarlais is pleased to announce his \u201cSenior Listening Tour\u201d. This tour will give Tennessee\u2019s senior citizens and Representative DesJarlais an opportunity to discuss important issues that directly impact seniors, such as Medicare, Social Security and Veterans Affairs.\n\n\u201cThere are certainly big challenges facing seniors that need to be addressed. At the top of that list is Medicare, which is on the road to bankruptcy and must be reformed if we hope to save it for current and future generations. I hope that this tour will provide me with an opportunity to hear directly from seniors in my district with regards to how they feel entitlement reform should be approached in Congress and what solutions they have for putting Medicare back on a sustainable path. I remain committed to ensuring that our seniors are taken care of and I look forward to partnering with them in addressing these important issues,\u201d said Representative DesJarlais.\n\n\u201cWhile traveling throughout our district, I\u2019ve found that my constituents have an abundance of commonsense ideas that could help in solving many of our nation\u2019s fiscal and economic challenges. Whether it is a business owner identifying burdensome federal regulations that hurt his ability to create jobs, or a mother that is simply concerned about the amount of debt being passed onto her children, I rely on my constituents to tell me what issues are important to the Fourth District. Without a doubt, the first step to being a good representative is being a good listener.\u201d\n\nEvent Information:\n\nAugust 30th\n\nLawrence County Senior Center\n\n220 Centennial Avenue\n\nLawrenceburg, TN 38464\n\n11:00am-12:00pm CST\n\nAugust 31st\n\nWhitwell Senior Center\n\n900 S Main Street\n\nWhitwell, TN 37397\n\n9:00-10:00am CST", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:39Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=34DC06A8-268C-4140-BB89-3511170618AE", "Representative DesJarlais Visits Businesses in Manchester, Tennessee as Part of Tennessee Job Creators Tour", "2011-08-24", "2011", "2011-08", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Creating jobs for Tennesseans is a top priority for Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04). In March, the Congressman embarked on a district-wide \u201cTennessee Job Creators\u201d tour as part of an effort to receive direct feedback from local business owners and workers. During this fact-finding tour, Rep. DesJarlais will be meeting with businesses of all sizes from a variety of industries, to receive direct feedback from proven job-creators in the Fourth Congressional District on what federal policies are helping or hurting businesses as they strive to expand and create jobs.\n\n\u201cDuring these difficult economic times, we simply cannot afford to let Washington bureaucrats impose unnecessary regulations that stifle job creation,\u201d said Representative DesJarlais. \u201cIt is my hope that by working with those who have a proven record of creating jobs, we can find the right role for Washington \u2013 a role that helps businesses to thrive. It is critical that we find solutions that will increase the number of jobs and not the size of the federal government.\u201d\n\nOn Friday, August 26, DesJarlais will be in Manchester, Tennessee to meet with Newell Rubbermaid and VIAM Manufacturing, Inc.\n\nNewell Rubbermaid\n\n831 Volunteer Parkway\n\nManchester, TN 37355\n\n10:30 \u2013 11:15 am CST\n\nVIAM Manufacturing, Inc.\n\n157 Park Tower Drive\n\nManchester, TN 37355\n\n11:30-12:15pm CST\n\n*These events are open press, but are not open to the general public.\n\nAdditionally, the congressman is participating in the \u201cListening to America\u2019s Job Creators\u201d program launched by the Committee on Oversight and Government Affairs, one of the three committees that DesJarlais is serves on. Individuals in the Fourth District that are interested in joining the conversation job creation can provide input by visiting the congressman\u2019s Web site, www.DesJarlais.house.gov, and clicking on the \u201cListening to America\u2019s Job Creators\u201d button on the homepage. A form will be provided where constituents can identify federal government regulations they\u2019ve encountered\u2013 either as a business owner or an employee \u2013 that impede the growth and success of their business.\n\nAt the conclusion of the \u201cTennessee Job Creators\u201d tour, Congressman DesJarlais\u2019 office will be compiling a report using information gained from business owners in his district, as well as from submissions received through the Web site, to present to his colleagues on the Oversight and Government Reform Committee.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:39Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=4ED90D48-D6B6-4E48-A509-3BF4C8FEA5C4", "Representative DesJarlais Launches Senior Listening Tour", "2011-08-23", "2011", "2011-08", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) remains committed to maintaining an ongoing conversation with his constituents on important legislative issues being debated in Washington. To help in soliciting feedback from the individuals he represents, Rep. DesJarlais launched his \u201cTennessee Job Creators\u201d tour, \u201cListening to Tennessee\u201d tour and telephone town hall series. During these events, DesJarlais has been able to receive guidance and feedback from his constituents on how to best represent them in the United States House of Representatives.\n\nTo build upon the success of these efforts, Rep. DesJarlais is pleased to announce his \u201cSenior Listening Tour\u201d. This tour will give Tennessee\u2019s senior citizens and Representative DesJarlais an opportunity to discuss important issues that directly impact seniors, such as Medicare, Social Security and Veterans Affairs.\n\n\u201cThere are certainly big challenges facing seniors that need to be addressed. At the top of that list is Medicare, which is on the road to bankruptcy and must be reformed if we hope to save it for current and future generations. I hope that this tour will provide me with an opportunity to hear directly from seniors in my district with regards to how they feel entitlement reform should be approached in Congress and what solutions they have for putting Medicare back on a sustainable path. I remain committed to ensuring that our seniors are taken care of and I look forward to partnering with them in addressing these important issues,\u201d said Representative DesJarlais.\n\n\u201cWhile traveling throughout our district, I\u2019ve found that my constituents have an abundance of commonsense ideas that could help in solving many of our nation\u2019s fiscal and economic challenges. Whether it is a business owner identifying burdensome federal regulations that hurt his ability to create jobs, or a mother that is simply concerned about the amount of debt being passed onto her children, I rely on my constituents to tell me what issues are important to the Fourth District. Without a doubt, the first step to being a good representative is being a good listener.\u201d\n\nEvent Information:\n\nAugust 30th\n\nLawrence County Senior Center\n\n220 Centennial Avenue\n\nLawrenceburg, TN 38464\n\n11:00am-12:00pm CST\n\nAugust 31st\n\nWhitwell Senior Center\n\n900 S Main Street\n\nWhitwell, TN 37397\n\n9:00-10:00am CST", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:39Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=167F58E6-2587-4C13-B1AB-D5C55D16084D", "Rep. DesJarlais Launches District-Wide \"Listening to Tennessee\" Tour", "2011-08-16", "2011", "2011-08", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "On Thursday, August 18th, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) announced the launch of his \u201cListening to Tennessee\u201d tour. The tour will be composed of public listening sessions with residents across Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District. This tour is part of an ongoing effort by the congressman to solicit ideas and opinions from his constituents on important policy issues being debated in Washington, D.C.\n\n\u201cHaving a chance to meet with and hear from constituents is a critical part of being a Member of Congress and is a top priority of mine,\u201d said Rep. DesJarlais. \u201cWhether it is through daily conversations with individuals on Facebook or sitting down with business leaders during my Tennessee Job Creators Tour, I look to the people of Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District for guidance as to how to best represent them in Congress. Fortunately for me, I\u2019m blessed with a well-informed, vocal constituency that has presented me with no shortage of ideas on how we can get our nation back on the right fiscal track and start creating jobs. I look forward to people coming out and continuing the conversation.\u201d\n\nListening to Tennessee Tour future dates:\n\nAugust 24th\n\nListening Session in Dunlap, TN\n\n9:30-10:15 a.m. CST\n\nSequatchie County Courthouse\n\n22 Cherry Street, #4, Dunlap, Tennessee 3732\n\nListening Session in Pikeville, TN\n\n10:45 \u2013 11:30 a.m. CST\n\nBledsoe County Courthouse\n\n3150 Main Street, Pikeville, Tennessee 37367\n\nListening Session in Sparta, TN\n\n3:45-4:30 p.m. CST\n\nWhite County Courthouse\n\n1 E Bockman Way, Room 205, Sparta, Tennessee 38583\n\nAugust 25th\n\nListening Session in Huntsville, TN\n\n1:00- 1:45 p.m. EST\n\nScott County Office Complex\n\n2845 Baker Hwy, Huntsville, Tennessee 37756\n\nAugust 26th\n\nListening Session in Manchester, TN\n\n2:00-2:45 p.m. CST\n\nCoffee County Administrative Plaza\n\n1329 McArthur Street, Manchester, Tennessee 37355\n\nAugust 30th\n\nListening Session in Loretto, TN\n\n2:00-3:00 p.m. CST\n\nMustang Country Cafe\n\n213 2nd Avenue South, Loretto, Tennessee 38469\n\nNote: All of the town hall meetings are free and open to the public/press. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis\n\nA full list of listening sessions is available on Representative DesJarlais Web site in the \u201cEvents Schedule\u201d section.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:39Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=64A8E6F0-9656-4BBA-B8C7-0966EDCB8D50", "Rep. DesJarlais Statement on Action by S&P", "2011-08-07", "2011", "2011-08", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after Standard and Poor\u2019s announced they had lowered the United States long-term credit rating to AA+.\n\n\u201cThe decision by S&P to downgrade our rating is a direct result of Washington's years of addiction to irresponsible government spending.\n\n\"Since arriving to Congress, I've been pleased to be part of an ongoing effort by House Republicans to put our nation back on a fiscally sustainable path. Unfortunately, Senate Democrats and President Obama have blocked many of these efforts to enact common sense spending reductions and reforms.\n\n\"Clearly, borrowing money is not the path to economic prosperity. Nowhere is this more apparent than in President Obama's failed stimulus package that only succeeded in creating additional job-destroying economic uncertainty by adding another trillion dollars to our debt.\n\n\"Additionally, this downgrade shows us that the real threat to our economy is our $14 trillion debt; not the debt-limit.\n\n\"Today's downgrade by the S&P makes it clear the philosophy of borrowing and spending is no longer an option. Fortunately, the Republican-led house has changed the conversation from how much can we spend to how much we can cut.\n\n\"It is time that Congressional Democrats and President Obama join us in making bold spending decisions and abandon their efforts to maintain the status-quo. I will continue to fight for meaningful spending cuts and reforms that will end deficits and pay down our debt.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:39Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=CFBC792F-7712-4ACA-BD55-DC1134C45F0F", "Representative DesJarlais Votes Against Budget Control Act of 2011", "2011-07-31", "2011", "2011-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after voting against the Budget Control Act of 2011:\n\n\u201cAs I\u2019ve said from the beginning, I will not votein favor of a bill to raise the debt-limit that does not contain the necessary spending cuts and reforms that will prevent our nation\u2019s debt from continuing to grow in an unsustainable manner.\n\n\u201cMy constituents sent me to Washington, D.C. to tackle our budget crisis and put America back on the track to fiscal sanity. I hear every day from families in Tennessee\u2019s Fourth District that they want the federal government to make tough spending choices, just like they have to do at home.\n\n\u201cWhile I cannot support this legislation, I think it is important to recognize that we have fundamentally changed the debate in Washington fromhow much we can spend to how much spending we can cut. Together we have forced Senate Democrats and President Obama to finally come to grips with the fact that we cannot borrow our way to prosperity.\n\n\u201cWe must build upon this momentum and continue to fight for substantial spending cuts that will put America on a path to a balanced budget and solve our job-killing debt problem.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:35Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=6E94FB7F-0156-4380-8167-68D5DD8F79AF", "Representative DesJarlais Votes Against Reid Plan", "2011-07-29", "2011", "2011-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after voting against Senator Reid\u2019s Debt Limit plan:\n\n\u201cIt appears that our Democratic colleagues in the Senate fail to grasp the seriousness of our nation\u2019s job-crushing debt.\n\n\u201cPhony accounting and budgeting gimmicks are not the type of bold leadership that our country desperately needs in this time of fiscal peril.\n\n\u201cThis is the worst type of bill: It gives the president a $2.4 trillion blank check to continue his taxpayer-funded spending spree, contains more than $1 trillion in imaginary \u201csavings\u201d and instead of cutting wasteful government spending, it takes away funds that are vital for our men and women serving in uniform. I find it shameful for anyone to suggest that we pay for Washington\u2019s irresponsible fiscal policies by shortchanging our troops.\n\n\u201cFurther, according the CBO, this bill only reduces spending by $927 billion. This is nearly $1.5 trillion less than the president\u2019s request for a $2.4 trillion debt limit increase. That is not a solution.\n\n\u201cWe have an out of control deficit and it is going to take more than insignificant cuts and imaginary savings in order to put our nation back on the right fiscal track.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:35Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=B9E03F5C-6AC0-49BB-917F-F55728223192", "Representative DesJarlais Votes Against Budget Control Act", "2011-07-28", "2011", "2011-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after voting against the Budget Control Act:\n\n\u201cAfter careful consideration, I ultimately decided that I could not vote in favor of the Budget Control Act.\n\n\u201cI was elected to Congress to address the substantial fiscal challenges that face our nation. Our federal government has buried us under a mountain of job-crushingdebt that is threatening our future.\n\n\u201cFor too long Washington has been kicking this problem down the road. We have now come to the point where we are out of road.\n\n\u201cIf we want to create jobs and boost our economy, we have to address our spending and debt now. That means both substantial and immediate cuts.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m terribly disappointed by the actions of President Obama and Senate Democrats. Rather than being partners with us in cutting spending, they have chosen to block any attempt by House Republicans to enact crucial spending reductions that will get our fiscal house in order.\n\n\u201cClearly, we cannot continue business as usual and it is now time for President Obama and Senate Democrats to come to that realization.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:35Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=05E2CA06-5391-4462-B7D1-961678C491DC", "Representative DesJarlais Signs Letter Urging CFTC to Uphold Congressional Intent and Protect End-Users", "2011-07-20", "2011", "2011-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) signed on to a letter that was sent to Commodity Future Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Gary Gensler on July 18th, 2011 regarding his agency\u2019s definition of \u201cswap dealer\u201d.\n\nIn crafting Title VII of Dodd-Frank, Congress was explicit in providing clear exemptions for end-users hedging commercial risks. The CFTC\u2019s proposed \u201cswap dealer\u201d definition is overly broad and would classify commercial energy companies, agricultural companies, agricultural and electric cooperatives, community banks and farm credit system institutions as \u201cswap dealers\u201d. This would impose huge costs on their ability to do business and divert capital that could be invested in job creation and jumpstarting the economy.\n\nFurther, the rules and regulations that are being drafted to implement Dodd-Frank must follow congressional intent. To that end, it is important that commercial end users continue to have the ability to responsibly hedge their business risk so that they can provide products to their customers at a reasonable cost.\n\n\u201cThe ability to manage risk is crucial for the agriculture industry. Placing undue burdens on organizations that pose absolutely no risk of creating a financial crisis will do little more than drive up their cost of doing business. These additional costs will take precious resources away from where they are needed most \u2013 creating jobs,\u201d said Representative DesJarlais.\n\nThe text of the July 18th letter is attached and can be found below:\n\nDear Chairman Gensler:\n\nWe appreciate the enormous challenge that implementing Dodd-Frank poses to the Commission and the enormous time constraints you are under to implement these important rules and regulations. One specific issue that has repeatedly been brought to our attention is the overly broad interpretation of the \u201cswap dealer\u201d definition proposed by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). We write today to ask for the reconciliation of several points made throughout the Administration\u2019s proposal of financial regulatory reform to Congress and the broad proposed interpretation of the definition the Commission has released for public comment. As such, we have included a list of questions at the conclusion of this letter that we request you respond to within ten business days.\n\nDuring a speech to the International Swaps and Derivatives Association on September 16, 2010, you stated that \u201cInitial estimates are that there could be in excess of 200 entities that will seek to register as swap dealers.\u201d We are concerned that the proposed rule would capture commercial energy companies, agricultural companies, agricultural and electric cooperatives, and community banks, and Farm Credit System institutions as swap dealers. We view this as going well beyond Congressional intent.\n\nCongress included two exceptions from the \u201cswap dealer\u201d definition in Dodd-Frank that were intended to exclude these various commercial and smaller entities and narrow the overall scope of those that ultimately fall into this new regulatory category. The proposed rule put forth by the CFTC would impose huge costs on these businesses and divert capital that could otherwise be invested in creating new jobs and helping jumpstart the economy.\n\nThe first exception included by Congress from registering as a swap dealer relates to the entity\u2019s transacting in a dealing capacity \u201cas a part of a regular business.\u201d In other words, if an entity\u2019s main or usual business is entering into swaps it is classified as a swap dealer. If an entity\u2019s main or usual business is not entering into swaps, it is exempt from the definition of swap dealer. Congressional intent is clear that this is meant to exempt those who may engage in swap activity that is ancillary to their main business. The proposed rule makes no such distinction, and essentially makes this exception null and void.\n\nThe second exception included in Dodd-Frank is the de minimis exception, which gives the CFTC broad discretion in determining which entities are exempt. Our understanding is that very few entities would qualify for the very low threshold set forth in the proposal, which only exempts entities that engage in fewer than twenty swaps in a year.\n\nIn our view this definition and the various requirements that go along with the designation as a swap dealer threaten afurther concentration of the swaps markets onto the balance sheets of a handful of the largest financial institutions. We are concerned that this will drive up the costs of risk management and borrowing for commercial firms across this country and stunt economic growth.\n\nWe request responses to the following questions in ten business days and appreciate your attention to these issues.\n\nQuestions:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:35Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=EECC5693-B2F5-4EB4-817F-11F94375DFBC", "Representative DesJarlais Votes Against Cut, Cap and Balance Act", "2011-07-19", "2011", "2011-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after voting against the Cut, Cap and Balance Act:\n\n\u201cI could not support the Cut, Cap and Balance Act in its entirety and therefore voted against it.\n\n\u201cWhile I do agree that we need to cut current spending, cap future spending at under 20% of our nation\u2019s gross domestic product (GDP) and send a Constitutional Balanced Budget Amendment to the states for ratification, I simply cannot vote in favor of giving this president another 2.4 trillion dollars to continue his reckless government spending spree for the next year and a half.\n\n\u201cFurthermore, the Cut, Cap and Balance legislation does not provide a solid blueprint for where or how this $2.4 trillion increase will be spent. This would allow President Obama to run up two more years of trillion dollar deficits without making tough choices on where to cut spending.\n\n\u201cOur debt is the greatest national security issue currently facing our nation, yet President Obama still has not released a single plan to rein in his excessive spending. Until we can be confident that this president realizes his days of running up record deficits are over, I will not vote to give him the authority to borrow $2.4 trillion more on the backs of our children and grandchildren \u2013 enough is enough.\n\n\u201cTo be clear, I fully support all three initiatives encompassed in the Cut, Cap and Balance Act and I look forward to voting for these measures in the future as standalone bills \u2013 not as a part of a deal that gives the president a $2.4 trillion dollar debt limit increase.\n\n\u201cThe debt limit debate provides us with a real opportunity to finally prioritize government spending. We need to sit down and open up the books to look at what government programs we can cut or eliminate.\n\n\u201cI stand firm on my belief that any increase in the debt limit must be accompanied by both significant and immediate spending cuts that will give American job creators confidence that Washington is finally working to get its fiscal house in order.\n\n\u201cEvery day, families across Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District are looking at their budgets and prioritizing where they spend their money. It is about time that government does the same.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:35Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=B1537BAF-ECDF-42A5-BAC3-90BD78AD153E", "Representative DesJarlais Co-Hosts Seminar on Doing Business with Federal Agencies", "2011-07-17", "2011", "2011-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) and the University of Tennessee\u2019s Center for Industrial Services(CIS) Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC), will be hosting a seminar entitled \u201cWhat\u2019s New in District 4? Doing Business with Federal Agencies\u201d.\n\nThe seminar is scheduled for Friday, August 26 from 8:30 am \u2013 4:45 CST at the University of Tennessee Space Institute located at 411 B H Goethert Parkway, Tullahoma, Tennessee 37388.\n\nThere will be presenters from Arnold Air Force Base, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers (USACE). Representatives from the Procurement Technical Assistance Center will also be available.\n\nThe \u201cDoing Business with Federal Agencies\u201d seminar will cover business opportunities with Arnold AFB, FEMA and the USACE, review the procurement process and explain the preliminary steps involved in doing business with the Federal Government.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m very excited to sponsor this event and I appreciate the University of Tennessee\u2019s Procurement Technical Assistance Center for giving me this opportunity,\u201d said Representative DesJarlais. \u201cI\u2019m confident that this seminar will prove to be of significant value for individuals in Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District.\"\n\nRegistration - Contact Debbie Barber, University of Tennessee Procurement Technical Assistance Center at 615-686-3996 or e-mail at debbie.barber@tennessee.edu. There is no charge for the seminar.\n\nAgenda\n\n7:30 \u2013 8:30 Registration (photo opportunity with the Congressman)\n\n8:30 \u2013 8:40 Colors/Pledge of Allegiance\n\n8:40 \u2013 8:50 Welcome/Housekeeping \u2013 Joe Flynn\n\n8:50 \u2013 9:00 Brief PTAC Introduction \u2013 Joe Flynn\n\nIntroduction of Dr. Robert Moore, Executive Director, UTSI\n\n9:00 \u2013 9:15 Welcome and brief UTSI overview \u2013 Dr. Robert Moore\n\nIntroduction of Mary Jinks \u2013 Dr. Robert Moore\n\n9:15 \u2013 9:30 Introduction of UT IPS/CIS \u2013 Mike Tallent\n\nIntroduction of Congressman \u2013 Mike Tallent\n\n9:40 \u2013 10:00 Congressman DesJarlais gives Remarks\n\n10:00 \u2013 10:30 Break and Network with Exhibitors\n\n10:30 \u2013 11:30 Government Contracts and Accounting Procedures/Contract Administration\n\n11:30 \u2013 12:30 Lunch On Your Own\n\n12:30 \u2013 1:15 Arnold Air Force Base Procurement Opportunities\n\n1:15 \u2013 2:00 Subcontracting Opportunities with Arnold AFB Prime Contractor \u2013 Jeff Foster\n\n2:00 \u2013 2:30 Break and Network with Exhibitors\n\n2:30 \u2013 3:15 Panel Discussion \u2013 GSA, SBA, TEMA\n\n3:15 \u2013 4:00 USACE \u2013 Roy Rossignoi, Chief Small Business, Nashville District\n\n4:00 \u2013 4:30 Q & A with the Congressman\n\n4:30 \u2013 4:45 Wrap Up/Final Thoughts/Adjourn \u2013 Joe Flynn", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:35Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=70E6D2CA-CC49-4C4E-A8D0-2D5B02B3D769", "DesJarlais Calls on Administration to Clarify Misleading Debt Payment Default Statements, Protect Seniors, Military", "2011-07-13", "2011", "2011-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Washington, DC, July 14 -\n\nToday, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) and 56 Members of Congress sent a letter to President Obama urging him to clarify for the American people that even if a debt ceiling agreement is not reached, the United States will not default on its monthly interest payments, or be unable to pay our military and seniors.\n\n\u201cI was disappointed to hear President Obama mislead the public regarding what will happen in the event that an agreement is not reached on the debt limit,\u201d said Rep. DesJarlais. \u201cThe American people deserve to hear the truth. To suggest that the United States will be unable to make our debt payments or not pay our military or seniors is completely wrong and unnecessary. Our federal revenue is great enough to cover debt-interest payments, Social Security and Medicare payments and pay for our military personnel. It is unfortunate that that this administration would rather engage in scare tactics to protect its reckless spending habits than make tough spending cut decisions. Irresponsible comments like these will only succeed in further damaging the good faith and credibility of our nation.\u201d\n\nBelow is the text of the letter.\n\nDear Mr. President:\n\nWe remain hopeful that an agreement will be reached in the near future regarding spending levels and the debt ceiling. We write to you today, however, to express strong concern about recent comments by Treasury Secretary Geithner. We ask that you clarify for the American people that the Treasury will in fact continue making the monthly interest payments owed on our national debt, even if the debt ceiling is reached.\n\nAs you are aware, the revenue projection for FY11 by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) is $2,230 billion. The total estimated interest payment for FY11 is $213 billion. For FY12, CBO estimates revenues of $2,558 billion and interest payments totaling $257 billion.\n\nStatements by Secretary Geithner have led many Americans to believe that reaching the debt ceiling will cause the United States government to go into default on its interest payments August 2nd if the debt ceiling is reached.\n\nClearly, that is not the case, as the figures above indicate. Additionally, many Americans believe making Social Security payments (CBO estimates: FY11: $727 billion; FY12: $760 billion), Medicare payments (CBO estimates: FY11: $563 billion; FY12: $560 billion) and ensuring the pay of our military personnel (DOD estimates: FY11 $157 billion; FY12: $160 billion) should be the Administration\u2019s next priorities. Allowing statements to the contrary jeopardizes the good faith and credit of the United States.\n\nWe ask that you make an immediate, clear and unequivocal public commitment that your Administration will continue to make all interest payments on time, as well as ensuring the pay of our military personnel, and making Social Security and Medicare payments in full.\n\nWe look forward to your reply.\n\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:35Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=C5913715-B273-4E29-BBB6-C0B97D000AC9", "DesJarlais Cosponsors Legislation to Help Storm Victims", "2011-07-07", "2011", "2011-07", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "In order to help victims of the tornadoes, severe storms and flooding that devastated Tennessee and other Southeaster states this spring, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) cosponsored legislation that would provide temporary tax provisions and relief for families, businesses and local governments as they recover from these tragic storms.\n\n\u201cI saw first-hand the terrible damage that these storms caused to communities throughout Tennessee and spoke directly with the families who had to begin the long, difficult process of rebuilding their lives,\u201d said Representative DesJarlais. \u201cThis legislation will provide much needed assistance through tax relief to the victims of these tragedies as they seek to cope with the aftermath. While nothing can replace all that was lost, it is my hope that the Southeastern Disaster Tax Relief Act will help to ease some of the pain experienced by our friends and neighbors.\u201d\n\nSummary of Southeastern Disaster Tax Relief Act:\n\nThis legislation consists of temporary tax provisions that were included in previous natural disaster responses that enjoyed overwhelming bipartisan support including the Heartland Disaster Tax Relief Act, Gulf Opportunity Zone Act, Katrina Emergency Tax Relief Act, and the tax relief provided to southern Kansas due to flooding in 2008. The bill is fully offset by rescinding unobligated federal spending, and it will not increase the federal debt.\n\nUnder this bill, the Southeastern disaster area would be established in the Internal Revenue Code to designate regions in the South that were affected by the recent tornadoes, severe storms or flooding. In order for counties to be eligible for all of the benefits in the bill, they must be Presidentially-declared major disaster areas and determined by the President to warrant individual assistance for damage between April 13, 2011, and June 7, 2011. Additionally, a limited number of benefits will be provided for areas designated eligible for public assistance by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), including expensing for demolition and clean-up costs, education tax benefits, qualified retirement withdrawals, suspension of limitations on charitable contributions and casualty losses, special exemption for housing displaced individuals, look-back rule for earned income tax credit and child tax credit, exclusion of cancellation of indebtedness income, and the extension of replacement period for non-recognition of gains.\n\nOriginal cosponsors of the legislation are: Spencer Bachus (AL-6), Jo Bonner (AL-1), Mo Brooks (AL-5), Russ Carnahan (MO-3), William Lacy Clay (MO-1), Tom Cole (OK-4), Rick Crawford (AZ-1), Scott DesJarlais (TN-4), John Duncan (TN-2), Steven Fincher (TN-8), Tim Griffin (AR-2), Brett Guthrie (KY-2), Gregg Harper (MS-3), Vicki Hartzler(MO-4), Walter Jones (NC-3), Billy Long (MO-7), Frank Lucas (OK-3), Alan Nunnelee (MS-1), Steven Palazzo (MS-4), Martha Roby (AL-2), Phil Roe (TN-1), Mike Rogers (AL-3), Mike Ross (AR-4), Austin Scott (GA-8), Terri Sewell (AL-7), Lynn Westmoreland (GA-4), Steve Womack (AR-3).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:35Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=8C83A0D4-240F-44A0-8C38-29FAAD61C904", "DesJarlais Statement to Senator Reid: Send H.R. 872 to Senate Floor for a Vote", "2011-06-21", "2011", "2011-06", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) after the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry approved H.R. 872, the Reducing Regulatory Burdens Act of 2011.\n\n\u201cI was pleased that the Senate Agriculture Committee advanced H.R. 872, The Reducing Regulatory Burdens Act. During these difficult economic times, it is imperative that government regulations do not impede economic growth. I, along with many of my colleagues in the House Agriculture Committee, urge Majority Leader Reid to swiftly bring this bipartisan bill to the Senate floor for a vote. This legislation is a critical step to creating an environment where American job creators can prosper,\" said Representative DesJarlais.\n\nOn March 31, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 872 in a bipartisan vote, 292-130. The legislation eliminates a costly and duplicative permitting requirement for the application of pesticides. This misguided court order will be implemented on October 31. Without a legislative fix, the requirement would impose an economic burden to agricultural producers, foresters, public health agencies, the federal government, state agencies, and every day citizens.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:30Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=DEE20D2F-F946-4355-855F-714AAF3167B7", "DesJarlais, Fleischmann Introduce First Bill: Legislation Stops Unfunded Road Sign Mandate and Saves Tennessee $50 Million", "2011-06-20", "2011", "2011-06", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (R-TN-04) and Representative Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN-03) have introduced a bill to rollback an unfunded mandate on local Tennessee counties. New standards put forth by the Federal Highway Administration would require Tennessee counties to update and replace road signs by 2015 and 2018. The Tennessee County Highway Officials Association estimates this accelerated schedule could cost local governments $50 million.\n\nCongressman Fleischmann and Congressman DesJarlais have introduced legislation in the House, to match legislation introduced by Senators Alexander and Corker, to waive the new timeline, and allow local governments to meet the new standards when they replace signs at the end of their natural life cycle.\n\n\u201cThis is certainly a prime example of an untimely, unfunded federal mandate. Local governments have already had to tighten their belts and carefully manage every dollar in their budget. Unlike the federal government, most local governments have to balance their budget and can\u2019t engage in spending beyond their means. During these difficult economic times, I think it\u2019s simply unreasonable for the federal government to mandate a new standard to force the replacement of road signs that are still safe and usable. This bill is quite simple: it allows localities to replace signs at the end of their life cycle instead of forcing an unnecessary change that our local highway authorities neither need nor can afford at the present time,\u201d DesJarlais said.\n\n\u201cThe federal government is once again placing an undue burden on states when they can least afford it. While this Administration, and their departments, might have the mindset of \u2018tax, borrow, spend\u2019, local governments cannot do the same. At a time when they are working to be fiscally responsible, and balance their budgets, the federal government is telling them to spend money they don\u2019t have. I am proud to join with Senators Alexander and Corker to put an end to this unfunded mandate. Washington politicians should take a clue from local and state officials, and get to work on balancing their budget \u2013 instead of telling states how to spend their money,\u201d Fleischmann said.\n\n\u201cIt is financially impossible for Tennessee county governments to comply with this unfunded FHWA mandate. Tennessee county government's inability to comply with the FHWA sign mandates indirectly exposes all units of local governments to potential litigation. One of the biggest concerns for county governments regarding program mandates is the threat of lawsuits for non-compliance,\u201d the Tennessee County Highway Officials Association said.\n\nThis is the first bill introduced by both Congressman Fleischmann and Congressman DesJarlais.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:30Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=3FDF0AE7-4056-4888-9B7B-8C4217563B9A", "Representative DesJarlais Sends Letter to Chairman Gensler Seeking Clarification on Swap Dealer Definition", "2011-06-14", "2011", "2011-06", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "On Tuesday, June 14, 2011 Representative Scott DesJarlais (R-TN-04) sent a letter to U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission Chairman Gary Gensler seeking clarification on the Commission\u2019s swap dealer definition.\n\n\u201cWithout clear guidelines and an economic analysis justifying proposed new rules for the futures and swaps industry, it is impossible for market participants to predict the effects these rules will have on their cost of doing business. Due to the significant economic impact these regulations will have on a broad range of industries, we must work to ensure that these rules are clearly defined and properly vetted,\u201d said Representative DesJarlais.\n\n\u201cI look forward to continuing to work with both my Republican and Democratic colleagues and Chairman Gensler to ensure that the rules put forth by the Commission achieve the goal of providing certainty within the marketplace without placing cumbersome burdens on industries and individuals that were not responsible for the financial crisis.\u201d\n\nThe text of the letter can be found below:\n\nDear Chairman Gensler:\n\nWe are writing to seek clarity on your view of the scope of the swap dealer definition, particularly as it applies to the energy and agricultural communities. We have heard concerns from many businesses that under the Commission\u2019s proposal, an entity that has no customers, is not a market maker, does not hold itself out as a swap dealer and is not generally known as a swap dealer, could still be deemed to be a swap dealer. Is this the Commission\u2019s interpretation of the scope of swap dealer?\n\nIn the release accompanying the Commission\u2019s proposed definition of swap dealer, the Commission states that indicia of dealing activity include \u201caccommodating demand for swaps\u2026 from other parties\u201d [emphasis added] and being \u201cavailable to enter into swaps\u2026to facilitate other parties\u2019 interest in entering into those instruments.\u201d Do you intend by using the word \u201cparties\u201d as opposed to \u201ccustomers\u201d to suggest that one can be a swap dealer as a result of arm\u2019s length transactions with counterparties in the market, or is the existence of a customer relationship an essential element of swap dealing. In addition, under this language and structure, we have heard concerns that a high frequency trader could be deemed to be a swap dealer. Is this the Commission\u2019s intent? Could other active traders also be deemed to be swap dealers under this analysis? How would the determination be made as to the level of trading activity necessary to constitute swap dealing?\n\nWe also have heard concerns that the release accompanying the CFTC\u2019s proposal does not describe what constitutes \u201cmaking a market in swaps\u201d and that the Commission may view simple trading activities as market making, including the active trading referred to above. Please clarify what activities constitute \u201cmaking a market in swaps?\u201d\n\nFinally, during the March 31st House Agriculture Committee hearing, several witnesses representing agricultural and energy commercial companies were asked if they knew where they were classified under the rules. We are concerned by the fact that not one of the witnesses was certain as to where they would be classified, i.e., end user or swap dealer. How will the Commission address this uncertainty so that individual commercial firms can know for sure whether they are end users or swap dealers?", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:30Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=586C4A5A-8760-4442-B7CB-B05FC14F132D", "Representative DesJarlais Questions Earl Devaney on Achieving Transparency and Accountability in Federal Spending", "2011-06-14", "2011", "2011-06", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "On Tuesday, June 14, 2011 the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform held a hearing entitled \"Achieving Transparency and Accountability in Federal Spending,\" as part of the committee's mission to bring genuine reform to the federal bureaucracy. The hearing included testimony by Earl Devaney, Chairman of the Recovery Accountability and Transparency Board.\n\nDespite the availability of technology to track federal spending and program performance, the existing platforms utilized by government agencies do not yield accurate and accessible reporting of information to taxpayers. In fact, USASpending.gov, the site required by law under the authority of the Office of Management and Budget, was only 35 percent accurate in fiscal year 2009. Moreover, the multiple and incongruent formats of various federal spending databases make comparison and analysis almost impossible, even to those with advanced degrees in accounting.\n\nWhile the committee continues to have concerns about the effectiveness and prudence of President Obama's trillion-dollar stimulus, the Recovery Accountability and Transparency Board has provided a commendable model of transparency. In the last two years, the American people have seen that reporting by grant, loan, and contract recipients is truer and timelier than the out-of-date model of agency reporting. In fact, errors that have been discovered in the data at Recovery.gov are due, in large part, to flawed information sent by federal agencies.\n\nThe committee will consider necessary reforms to bring an unprecedented level of openness and transparency to federal spending. Furthermore, the committee will evaluate the promise that data standardization offers for greater accountability to taxpayers.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:30Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=DEEF26C4-89F9-4496-A1FE-21D233A3DBE4", "Representative DesJarlais to Vote \"No\" on Clean Debt Limit Increase", "2011-06-01", "2011", "2011-06", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "On Tuesday, May 31, 2011 the House of Representatives is expected to vote on H.R. 1954, a bill to raise federal government\u2019s legal debt limit by $2.4 trillion without making a single spending cut. This vote comes as a response to the demands from the Obama Administration and 110+ House Democratsto quickly consider a \u201cclean\u201d debt limit bill. Representative Scott DesJarlais (R-TN-04) will be voting to reject this blank check debt limit increase.\n\n\u201cAs I travel throughout Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District, the thing that I hear most frequently from my constituents is that they want Washington to stop spending money that our nation doesn\u2019t have,\u201d said Representative DesJarlais. \u201cPresident Obama and Congressional Democrats need to come to the realization that in order for our economy to grow and create jobs, government must learn to live within its fiscal means. Saddling our children and grandchildren with a mountain of debt to pay for reckless spending is an irresponsible fiscal policy and one that I will continue to oppose. I voted against this bill today because my constituents want Washington to get serious about addressing our country\u2019s debt crisis.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:30Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=9E9354FF-DED4-470C-95C6-EE923F1DCD27", "Federal Government Designates Bledsoe County as a Major Disaster Area", "2011-05-05", "2011", "2011-05", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "On May 1, 2011, at the request of Governor Bill Haslam, President Obama issued a major disaster declaration for the state of Tennessee, triggering the release of Federal funds to help individuals and communities recover from the severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds and associated flooding which occurred on April 25-28, 2011.\n\nOn May 5, 2011, this major disaster declaration was amended and now includes Bledsoe County\n\nResidents of Bledsoe County that have been affected by the recent storms and tornadoes may apply for Individual Assistance (IA) from the Federal Emergency Management Service (FEMA). Individual Assistance can include temporary housing assistance for eligible applicants, such as rental assistance and repair assistance.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m incredibly pleased that the federal government recognizes the full extent of the damage that Bledsoe County sustained as a result of these severe storms and will be helping residents rebuild their lives by making sure they receive desperately needed assistance and emergency funding,\u201d said Congressman Scott DesJarlais. \u201cStaff members in all three of my district offices, as well as my office in Washington, D.C., are available to assist Fourth District residents in registering for Individual Assistance with FEMA. Please do not hesitate to contact us if we can be of any help to you.\u201d\n\nHOW TO REGISTER:\n\nTelephone\u20141-800-621-FEMA (3362), TTY (800) 462-7585 for individuals with speech or hearing disabilities.\n\nInternet\u2014They may apply for disaster assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov\n\nWashington, DC\n\n413 Cannon HOB\n\nWashington, DC 20515\n\nPhone: (202) 225-6831\n\nFax: (202) 226-5172\n\nWinchester, Tennessee\n\n212 First Avenue SE\n\nWinchester, Tennessee 37398\n\nPhone: (931) 450-0855\n\nFax: (931) 962-3435\n\nCrossville, Tennessee\n\n62 East Second Street\n\nCrossville, TN 38555\n\nPhone: (931) 707-9091\n\nFax: (931) 707-9100\n\nColumbia, Tennessee\n\n807 South Garden Street\n\nColumbia, TN 38401\n\nPhone: (931) 381-9920\n\nFax: (931) 381-9945\n\n\u201cI would also like to take an opportunity to once again thank Governor Bill Haslam, Representative Cameron Sexton and all the city and county officials that were involved helping to make this funding possible, as well as the many emergency management service workers and volunteers that have worked so hard to help the victims of this terrible tragedy,\u201d said DesJarlais.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:26Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=16FA7776-E718-43FC-868B-CDEA9B57CF61", "Rep. DesJarlais Votes to Expand American Energy Production, Create Jobs and Lower Gas Prices", "2011-05-04", "2011", "2011-05", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "On Thursday, May 05, 2011, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) voted in favor of final passage of H.R. 1230, the Restarting American Offshore Leasing Now Act. This bill expands American energy production and creates jobs by requiring the Secretary of the Interior to conduct oil and natural gas lease sales, which have been delayed or cancelled by the Obama Administration, in the Gulf of Mexico and offshore Virginia.\n\nThere is bipartisan support for energy production off the Virginia coast. According to a study by the Southeast Energy Alliance, offshore energy development in Virginia could create nearly 2,000 jobs in Virginia and produce more than a half billion barrels of oil and 2.5 trillion cubic feet of natural gas.\n\nUpon passage of the bill, Representative DesJarlais noted:\n\n\u201cI was pleased to cast my vote today in favor of this bill because I have a responsibility to make sure my constituents are not paying a penny more than necessary for their energy needs. Rising gasoline prices are hurting families across Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional district and are hampering the ability of small businesses to create jobs and grow our economy.\n\n\u201cBy delaying oil and natural gas lease sales in the Gulf of Mexico and Virginia, the Obama administration is blocking crucial American energy production. This hurts our ability to keep energy prices low by making us increasingly dependent on foreign oil. Additionally, we are forfeiting much\u00e2\u20ac\uccccneeded revenue that could be used to help pay down the national debt. In fact, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that H.R. 1230 would generate $40 million in new revenue over the next decade.\n\n\u201cWe need to be doing everything in our power to keep energy prices low, especially during these difficult economic times. I look forward in continuing to address this important issue because the rising cost of energy is one of the concerns I hear most frequently while meeting with constituents across my district.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:26Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=9831DD50-E818-4E24-B581-9551AF3F54AD", "Statement by Representative DesJarlais on the Death of Osama bin Laden", "2011-05-01", "2011", "2011-05", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) released the following statement on the death of terrorist leader Osama bin Laden:\n\n\u201cLast night, we achieved a significant victory against global terrorism and further strengthened the security of our nation. I\u2019m incredibly proud of the brave men and women of our military and intelligence services who put their lives on the line to defend us from evil, and whose hard work ultimately led to the success of this mission. During this time, we should also take a moment to remember the lives that were lost on September 11th as well as those in uniform who made the ultimate sacrifice, and once again offer our prayers to their families. While nothing will bring back their loved ones, I hope they can take some solace in the fact that Osama bin Laden has been brought to justice. May God Bless America.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:26Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=5B3B5637-25F8-4208-BAD9-1629C843A578", "Field Hearing Examines Connection Between Higher Education and a Competitive Workforce", "2011-04-24", "2011", "2011-04", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Today, the U.S. House Committee on Education and the Workforce, chaired by Rep. John Kline (R-MN), held its third field hearing to examine the important role of higher education and workforce training in the nation\u2019s economy. The hearing was held at Columbia State Community College in Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District, represented by Congressman Scott DesJarlais. Witnesses testified about the education and workforce needs in local communities, and the ability of higher education to successfully prepare individuals to join the workforce.\n\n\u201cA range of unpopular Washington initiatives enacted during the last Congress contributed to an atmosphere of uncertainty for business owners, causing many to shrink their workforce or curb plans for expansion,\u201d said Chairman Kline. \u201cAs a result, it has become even more important to ensure young adults have the tools necessary to stand out in this competitive job market.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe district is blessed with many colleges and universities that are partnering with local businesses in an effort to produce workers that meet the needs of the private sector,\u201d said Rep. Scott DesJarlais. \u201cWe must continue to encourage these sorts of partnerships.\u201d Rep. DesJarlais continued, \u201cOne of my top priorities in Congress is to ensure that our young people and non-traditional students have access to an affordable and internationally competitive education.\u201d\n\nHighlights from today\u2019s hearing include \u2013\n\nDr. Janet Smith, President, Columbia State Community College: \u201cWe believe that community colleges are central to providing the diverse educational opportunities needed to meet the growing and ever changing job demands and needs. Columbia State is linked to the workforce needs of its service area through representation on various workforce boards, chambers of commerce, local government and civic organizations which inform college representatives of area education and training needs. These linkages foster communication and information necessary for community and workforce development throughout the region.\u201d\n\nDr. Ted Brown, President, Martin-Methodist College: \u201cI want to make the assertion that our private or independent institutions\u2014especially those like my institution that are enrollment driven\u2014are at least as important to workforce development because we are closer to the market. We have to be\u2014our livelihood depends upon it. Of course, I am not suggesting that this is some sort of competition because the truth is the more we cooperate together the stronger our employment situation in the United States and in our region will be.\u201d\n\nJames Coakley, President, Nashville Auto-Diesel College: \u201cThe dedication by our career services department has produced excellent results in getting our students into the workforce no matter whether it is in Tennessee or elsewhere in the United States. As a result of their commitment, over 75% of our 2010 graduates have already initiated their careers in the diesel, automotive or collision repair industries.\u201d\n\nThe Honorable Dean Dickey, Mayor, City of Columbia, TN: \u201cWe no longer have the luxury of training for a career with the expectations that the training will serve us a lifetime and provide adequately for our future. We no longer can remain comfortable in the belief that current businesses and industries in our area will remain viable into the future. Our future depends upon our ability to renew ourselves and retrain ourselves.\u201d\n\nSusan Marlow, Chief Executive Officer, Smart Data Strategies: \u201cWe urge the Committee to take a comprehensive look at geospatial workforce development. This growing and critically important profession can contribute immensely to the quality of life and economic well being of the nation for decades to come. As we transition to a knowledge-based economy, geospatial data will become the underpinning for billions of dollars in commerce, as well as efficiency in the delivery of government programs.\u201d\n\nJan McKeel, Executive Director, South Central Tennessee Workforce Alliance: \u201cI can, however, sincerely share with you that training and education, workforce success, and personal income are positively correlated. Economic landscapes will periodically change, and the strength of individual sectors will come and go. Yet the strength of our communities, especially in more rural settings, will remain correlated to our ability to attract, retain, and grow jobs.\u201d\n\nTo read testimony and view related documents from the Columbia, Tennessee field hearing, visit www.edworkforce.house.gov/hearings.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:23Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=4390C15D-FD07-4EDB-8547-8C1D0C544439", "Tennessee's Fourth Congressional District Chosen to Host House Education and the Workforce Committee Field Hearing", "2011-04-13", "2011", "2011-04", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "U.S. Representative Scott DesJarlais (R-TN-04) is proud to announce that the House Committee on Education and the Workforce will hold an upcoming field hearing on education and job creation in Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District. The field hearing will take place on Thursday, April 21st at Columbia State Community College in Columbia, Tennessee.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m extremely pleased that our district has the opportunity to hold this important hearing,\u201d said Representative Scott DesJarlais. \u201cThis hearing represents an ongoing effort to empower my constituents by providing them with an opportunity to voice their opinions and views directly to Congress. During these difficult economic times, we must ensure that we are fully preparing our students to enter the workforce with the necessary tools to successfully compete in the global economy. I believe that individuals from Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District can provide a unique perspective for my colleagues and I to consider as we tackle the educational challenges facing our nation. I thank Chairman Kline for the opportunity to hold this hearing.\u201d\n\n\u201cRep. DesJarlais is committed to bringing commonsense and accountability to Washington, and he knows that starts with listening to the folks in his district,\u201d said House Committee on Education and the Workforce Chairman John Kline (R-MN-02). \u201cI look forward to joining Scott and the people of Columbia to learn about the challenges \u2013 and the opportunities \u2013 they have found in their schools and workplaces. The insight we gain will help policymakers better understand how federal programs and initiatives affect the day-to-day lives of the American people.\u201d\n\nThe field hearing, entitled \u201cReviving our Economy: The Role of Higher Education in Job Growth and Development,\u201d will take place at 10:00 a.m. (CST) in the Waymon L. Hickman Building at Columbia State Community College, 1665 Hampshire Pike, Columbia, Tennessee. More information about the field hearing is available at www.edworkforce.house.gov/hearings.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:23Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=4B846219-5833-4FA8-9842-906A77C376AA", "Representative DesJarlais Votes to Repeal the Sebelius Slush Fund", "2011-04-13", "2011", "2011-04", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "On Wednesday, April 13, 2011, Representative Scott DesJarlais (R-TN-04) voted in favor of H.R. 1217, a bill that repeals the Prevention and Public Health Fund created by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ObamaCare). The fund currently makes $17.75 billion available to the Secretary of Health and Human Services over the next 10 years and can be administered without any further Congressional action or oversight. Additionally, this fund will continue indefinitely at a level of $2 billion per year after 2015.\n\nThe nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office has estimated that H.R. 1217 will save $16 billion over ten years.\n\nThe bill was approved today by a vote of 236-183 in the U.S. House of Representatives. Upon passage, Congressman DesJarlais issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cWhen facing a 1.5 trillion dollar deficit we must prioritize our spending. Creating a slush fund for an unelected bureaucrat to spend at his or her will is not an efficient use of taxpayer dollars. Prevention and Public Health activities that have merit need to be funded through the normal appropriations process. Today\u2019s vote represents an ongoing effort by House Republicans to defund and repeal ObamaCare, reduce spending and get our nation\u2019s fiscal house in order.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:23Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=B9D3FA93-0F0E-4144-8160-D93152A53EC6", "Congressman DesJarlais Says Americans Deserve to Hear the Truth", "2011-04-07", "2011", "2011-04", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (R-TN-04) delivered the following remarks today on the House floor.\n\nClick Here to Watch Video\n\nI find it shameful that Washington has run up trillion dollar deficits for the last three years and yet there are those that seek to portray Republicans\u2019 modest, commonsense spending cuts as extreme.\n\nIt is time for government to tighten its belt and balance its budget just like families do every day across Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District. I refuse to allow our nation to continue to borrow money from the Chinese to pay for reckless government spending and then send the bill to our children and grandchildren.\n\nAmericans deserve the truth.\n\nThe choices that we make now on spending are not easy, but they are necessary. We cannot continue to spend money that we do not have.\n\nMy constituents did not send me to Washington to ignore problems and offer excuses. They did not send me here to kick the can down the road.\n\nOur nation is not in debt because Americans are taxed too little. We are in debt because government spends too much.\n\nWe must address our nation\u2019s debt crisis and spending addiction, and we must do it now.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:23Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=4926E3B0-6F0A-4E86-9D00-38480054B669", "Representative DesJarlais Praises Chairman Ryan's \"Path to Prosperity\"", "2011-04-04", "2011", "2011-04", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (R-TN-04) issued the following statement on Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan\u2019s (R-WI-01) fiscal year 2012 House budget resolution:\n\n\u201cI applaud Chairman Ryan and my colleagues on the Budget Committee for the excellent work they did in developing the Republican Fiscal Year 2012 budget. This is the sort of bold action that the American people expect and deserve. Our nation can\u2019t continue to spend money that we don\u2019t have and borrowing from other countries is simply not a sustainable fiscal plan. Unfortunately, it seems that Democrats are content with maintaining the status quo, leaving the Republicans to lead the charge in addressing our debt crisis \u2013 a responsibility that we are more than willing to accept.\n\n\u201cThe Washington practice of kicking the can down the road stops now. This budget shows that we will make the tough decisions to ensure that our nation\u2019s future is fiscally sustainable and that we will not leave our children and grandchildren with a crushing mountain of debt.\n\n\u201cWe were elected to make difficult decisions for the good of our country, and that is what we\u2019ll continue to do. While I might not agree with every single proposed cut, there is no longer an option to ignore trillion-dollar deficits.\u201d\n\nClick here to watch Chairman Ryan\u2019s video entitled \u201cA Path to Prosperity: America\u2019s Two Futures, visualized.\u201d\n\nKey Facts on Chairman Ryan\u2019s budget:\n\nCuts $6.2 trillion in spending from the president's budget over the next 10 years, reduces the debt as a percentage of the economy, and puts the nation on a path to paying off our national debt;\n\nBrings federal spending to below 20% of gross domestic product (GDP) and reduces deficits by $4.4 trillion;\n\nA study just released by the Heritage Center for Data Analysis projects that \u201cThe Path to Prosperity\u201d will help create nearly one million new private-sector jobs next year, bring the unemployment rate down to 4% by 2015, and result in 2.5 million additional private-sector jobs in the last year of the decade;\n\nWill spur economic growth, with $1.5 trillion in additional real GDP over the decade;", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:23Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=7CAA6107-FE47-4102-B738-DF555185449F", "Congressman DesJarlais Launches Tennessee Job Creators Tour", "2011-03-17", "2011", "2011-03", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "CLICK HERE to Watch \u201cIs Government Holding Your Business Back?\u201d\n\nAmerican job creation is a top priority for Congressman Scott DesJarlais (TN-04), who announced today that he will be embarking on a district-wide \u201cTennessee Job Creators\u201d tour. This tour is part of a continued effort by the congressman to have an open discussion with Tennessee job creators, entrepreneurs and innovators on ways the Federal government can foster economic growth and create jobs in the private sector.\n\nThe congressman will be traveling throughout Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District to meet small, medium and large sized businesses representing a variety of industries, to receive direct feedback from proven job-creators on what federal policies are helping or hurting businesses as they strive to expand and create jobs.\n\n\u201cOur nation has always had the ability to promote great entrepreneurship by fostering an environment that allows businesses to grow and flourish. Maintaining a strong business climate is vital if we want to create jobs and keep our nation globally competitive,\u201d said Congressman Scott DesJarlais. \u201cI want to make sure that Washington is doing everything possible to help businesses succeed. I also want to know of instances where Washington places too many regulatory burdens on business so that I can work with my colleagues in Congress to eliminate these cumbersome federal regulations.\u201d\n\nA September 2010 Small Business Administration reportconcluded that federal regulations cost U.S. businesses $1.75 trillion each year. To put this figure in perspective, the cost equates to an average of $8,086 per employee in 2008, with small businesses facing an even higher than average burden. This has made the path to economic revitalization and job creation riddled with unnecessary barriers.\n\n\u201cDuring difficult economic times, we simply can\u2019t afford to let bureaucrats in Washington impose unnecessary regulations that stifle job creation. It is my hope that by working with those who have a proven record of creating jobs, we can find the right role for Washington \u2013 a role that helps businesses, not harms them. We want to make sure we develop solutions in Congress that increase jobs, not the size of the federal government,\u201d noted DesJarlais. \u201cI want to make sure that the views of Tennessee\u2019s entrepreneurs and small business owners are included as we move forward in developing solutions to overcoming the hurdles faced by American Job Creators.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:20Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=C452FAA3-2B39-4605-82BE-85F3385A6F65", "Congressman DesJarlais Votes For 3-Week Continuing Resolution to Cut 6 Billion Dollars", "2011-03-15", "2011", "2011-03", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after voting for H.J. Res. 48, the second short-term CR to fund the government until April 8, 2011:\n\n\u201cIn keeping with our promise to cut spending, I voted today to pass a short-term Continuing Resolution introduced by House Republicans that contains over $6 billion in spending reductions and funds the government for the next three weeks. The passage of this second short-term CR totals $10 billion in cuts passed by the House over just five weeks.\n\n\u201cThis vote sends a clear message to Senate Democrat Leaders and President Obama that House Republicans are serious about cutting spending and getting our economy back on track to creating jobs.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s time for the Senate and White House to follow the lead of House Republicans in delivering the level of spending cuts that the American people expect.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:20Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=FFBB5711-A115-434A-8607-6E14A96944AD", "Congressman DesJarlais Asks Constituents to Partner with Him in Cleaning up Tennessee's Meth Problem", "2011-03-09", "2011", "2011-03", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Congressman Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) is committed to developing a comprehensive strategy to combat the serious problem of methamphetamine production in Tennessee, which is currently the top-ranking state in the nation for meth lab seizures.\n\nIn order to craft the best possible approach for fighting Tennessee\u2019s meth problem, Congressman DesJarlais has launched the \u201cEnd Tennessee\u2019s Meth Problem\u201d campaign to solicit ideas from individuals across Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District.\n\nAs part of the campaign, Representative DesJarlais and his staff have already spoken directly with local sheriffs throughout the district, and are planning to host several law enforcement roundtables in the coming weeks. By meeting with law enforcement, Congressman DesJarlais hopes to gain a better understanding of what tools and resources authorities need to safely and effectively clean up meth labs and curb meth production in Tennessee.\n\nAdditionally, DesJarlais has also provided a way for his constituents to submit their suggestions directly to him through his Congressional Web site. Concerned individuals can visit www.DesJarlais.house.gov and click on the \u201cEnd Tennessee\u2019s Meth Problem\u201d stop sign to offer their solutions for fixing Tennessee\u2019s meth problem. The congressman will compile these ideas, along with those from local law enforcement officials, and use them as the basis for developing an approach for addressing this issue at the federal level.\n\n\u201cMeth production is a very serious, very complex problem for not only our district, but for the entire state of Tennessee and across our nation,\u201d said Congressman Scott DesJarlais. \u201cFor that reason, I want to make sure that we develop the right approach in Congress to effectively deal with this issue. In order to do that, I need to hear as many different opinions on this subject as possible. So far, I have been incredibly pleased with the quantity and the quality of information I\u2019ve received from both law enforcement officials and everyday individuals. Their ideas have already proven to be an invaluable resource for me, and provide evidence that my constituents are clearly concerned about this issue. I\u2019m thankful for all of those who are participating in the fight against meth production and look forward to working with them in finding a solution.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:20Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=9F9E9F93-C26D-4BA5-AF0E-91569721ADD4", "House Republicans Vote to Protect Job Creators from Unnecessary Mandates", "2011-03-02", "2011", "2011-03", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "On Wednesday, March 3, House Republicans voted to pass H.R. 4, repealing the unnecessary 1099 tax reporting provisions.\n\nStarting in 2012, ObamaCare mandates that all businesses file an IRS Form-1099 for any vendor with which they conduct more than $600 in yearly transactions. This monstrous accounting and paperwork burden will create additional costs for business owners, particularly owners of small businesses, thereby reducing productivity and further stifling economic growth.\n\nH.R. 4 addresses one of the most widely unpopular provisions included in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act(\u201cPPACA\u201d) by making three changes to existing federal law. First, it repeals the expanded Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form 1099-MISC information reporting requirement enacted in section 9006 of PPACA that amends section 6041 (i) of the Internal Revenue Code. Secondly, it repeals the information reporting requirements with respect to real estate expenses enacted last year in section 2101 of the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010(\u201cSBJA\u201d). Lastly, it increases the amount of required repayments for overpayments of health care subsidies enacted in PPACA.\n\nAdditionally, ending the 1099 mandate will reduce the deficit by $166 million and federal spending by nearly $20 billion over the next ten years.\n\nUpon passage of the bill, Congressman DesJarlais issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cWashington should not be forcing small businesses to devote resources to burdensome tax filings instead of expanding their business and creating jobs. The 1099 reporting mandate is just another example of how government seeks to expand regulatory requirements with no regard for the effect it has on the American public.\n\n\u201cThe 1099 reporting mandate was so unpopular among businesses that even President Obama admitted that it was a flaw that puts an unnecessary burden on small business. While I applaud his concession, this just proves what Republicans have been saying all along. Democrats, in an effort to ram through this unpopular legislation, failed to take into account the negative effects that ObamaCare would have on small business and job creation.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:20Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=A341DE9F-EE5E-44A3-BCCF-FF869597DA95", "Statement on Senate Passage of House Republicans' Short-Term Continuing Resolution", "2011-03-01", "2011", "2011-03", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Congressman Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after the Senate passed the two week, short-term Continuing Resolution (CR) introduced by House Republicans and passed in the House on Tuesday, March 1st.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased that the Senate has taken a first-step in cutting spending by passing the House Republicans\u2019 short-term Continuing Resolution that will save American taxpayers $4 billion and prevent a government shutdown.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s my hope that Senate Majority leader Harry Reid and President Obama have finally realized that they must stop their reckless government spending spree and work with Republicans to get our nation\u2019s fiscal house in order before bankrupting the country. We can\u2019t keep kicking the can down the road. The time for action is now, and the Continuing Resolution represents an opportunity to set the precedent for establishing fiscally responsible budgets.\n\n\u201cWhile I\u2019m disappointed that the Senate has yet to pass House Republicans\u2019 original Continuing Resolution that would have saved American taxpayers $100 billion this year, I\u2019m glad that we are still on track for achieving substantial budget cuts for the remainder of fiscal year 2011. Moving forward, I hope that we can count on Senate Democrats to continue working across the aisle with Republicans and not impede further efforts to cut spending.\n\n\u201cGetting our nation\u2019s debt crisis under control is a top priority of mine in Congress and I hope that today\u2019s vote in the Senate is a sign that Democrats are willing to show leadership and join us in making these tough spending decisions.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:20Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=F5E009D6-FE1D-4E99-B047-A2EE81EF9563", "DesJarlais Statement on Short-Term Continuing Resolution", "2011-02-28", "2011", "2011-02", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Congressman Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after House Republicans passed a short-term Continuing Resolution (CR) that will cut spending and keep the government running.\n\n\u201cI am 100 percent committed to cutting spending, decreasing the size of government and putting our nation back on the path to creating jobs. For this reason, I was proud to have voted in favor of passing H.R. 1, a Continuing Resolution that funds the government for the remainder of the fiscal year while instituting the largest spending cut since the end of World War II. Unfortunately, it seems that Senate Democrats still think government can continue down this path of fiscal irresponsibility and failed to take up and pass this bill.\n\n\u201cIn keeping with our promise to reduce spending, I voted today to pass a short-term Continuing Resolution introduced by House Republicans that contains over $4 billion in spending reductions and funds the government for the next two weeks, giving Senate Democrats time to consider our initial bill. It is important to note that this short-term CR cuts $4 billion over two weeks, an amount that will keep us on track for achieving the level of spending cuts that were proposed in the original bill.\n\n\u201cI will continue to maintain a focus on reducing spending and limiting government. I encourage my Democrat colleagues in the Senate to quickly pass H.R. 1 and join us in helping to get America\u2019s debt crisis under control.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:15Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=BEC92D95-FC8E-4173-88A4-E8B0EB80D95F", "Representative DesJarlais Hosts \"Meet Your Member of Congress\" Events Across Tennessee's Fourth District", "2011-02-17", "2011", "2011-02", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Congressman Scott DesJarlais has hosted a series of \u201cMeet Your Member of Congress\u201d events in towns and cities across Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District.\n\nThese \"Meet Your Member of Congress\" events are designed to provide constituents with an opportunity to meet with their Congressman to share their thoughts and address issues that are important to Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District.\n\nCongressman DesJarlais has already held events in Winchester, Tullahoma, Lynnville, Lawrenceburg, Centerville and Pikeville.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:15Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=46E0134A-DDC6-4DB4-92DE-E08BC5880D87", "Congressman DesJarlais Opens District Offices in Columbia and Crossville", "2011-02-15", "2011", "2011-02", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "On Wednesday, February 16th, Congressman Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) officially opened his district offices in Columbia and Crossville, Tennessee. The offices will have full-time staff on hand to provide Fourth District residents with a variety of constituent services, including help in dealing with federal programs and agencies.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m extremely pleased to announce that my Columbia and Crossville offices are now open and ready to assist individuals in navigating the complex rules and regulations of the federal agencies,\u201d said Congressman DesJarlais. \u201cProviding the best possible constituent services is a top priority of mine, and I\u2019m certain that these offices will prove to be extremely valuable to the people of Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District.\u201d\n\nBelow is a partial list of issues that Congressman DesJarlais\u2019 district offices can assist with:\n\nSocial Security, disability, Medicaid and Medicare benefit problems\n\nWorker's compensation claims, problems with federal unemployment payments\n\nVA claims and military service problems\n\nSBA loan applications\n\nFMHA, FHA, and VA home loan application problems\n\nDisaster assistance, regulation compliance, and federal grant application problems\n\nIRS tax problems\n\nOffice contact information:\n\nColumbia Office\n\n807 Garden Street\n\nColumbia, TN 38401\n\nPhone: (931) 381-9920\n\nFax: (931) 381-9945", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:15Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=DAF6D1FF-CB2F-46E2-BF17-9F9B5FF94D36", "Congressman DesJarlais Delivers Remarks Celebrating President Reagan's 100th Birthday", "2011-02-09", "2011", "2011-02", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Congressman Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) delivered remarks on the House floor today paying tribute to President Ronald Reagan\u2019s 100th birthday, which took place on Sunday, February 6, 2011.\n\n\u201cMy colleagues have done an excellent job today in eloquently paying tribute to Ronald Reagan\u2019s life and the many accomplishments he achieved throughout his presidency.\n\nI\u2019d like to take a moment though to recognize one of the most instrumental figures in shaping the Reagan legacy \u00ad\u2013 Nancy Reagan.\n\nIn the immutable words of John Donne, \"No man is an Island, entire of itself,\" and with all the accolades we bestow on President Reagan, we must remember that Nancy was a key part of the Reagan team.\n\nShe was an uncommon confidant and was always there to provide the President with unconditional support, which no doubt, served as a source of his strength.\n\nI believe President Reagan would find any tribute to him inadequate without also recognizing the person he described as the \u201ccompanion without whom I\u2019m never quite complete or happy.\u201d\n\nSo thank you Mrs. Reagan for the role that you played in guiding our country through difficult times and ensuring that America forever remains a shining city upon a hill.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:15Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=2D6E03A2-D205-41A6-B420-F305CFC234BE", "Statement on the State of the Union Address", "2011-02-06", "2011", "2011-02", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Congressman Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement in response to President Obama\u2019s State of the Union address:\n\n\u201cTonight, President Obama laid out his blueprint for addressing the critical issues facing our country over the course of the upcoming year.\n\n\u201cWhile I was pleased that President Obama chose to focus on the need to create jobs, put a stop to the growing federal deficit and work with Republicans in a bipartisan manner, I hope that we will finally see a change in his actual agenda and not just in his tone and rhetoric.\n\n\u201cMany people in Tennessee are hurting financially and have had to make tough decisions to cut back on their personal spending in order to make ends meet during these difficult economic times. Meanwhile, President Obama and the Democrats in Congress have asked the American people to foot the bill for Washington\u2019s reckless spending spree that has only succeeded in growing the size of the federal government and increasing the deficit \u2013 not the number of American jobs.\n\n\u201cWhether through enacting a massive trillion dollar so-called \u201cstimulus\u201d package that failed to stabilize our economy and halt the rising unemployment rate or ramming through a government takeover of the health care system that will raise taxes and hurt small business, it seems that the Democrats have been more focused on enacting policies that will actually hurt job creation, not help it.\n\n\u201cMoving forward, if the President is serious about embracing a new direction for creating jobs, controlling spending and working in a bipartisan fashion, then he can count on Republicans to share our ideas and help in developing real solutions to fix our nation\u2019s problems.\n\n\u201cWe simply cannot return to \u201cbusiness as usual\u201d. The American people have sent a clear message that the era of deficit spending and big government legislation is over. They want us to govern within our fiscal means and cut the spending in Washington. We owe it to the American people to be good stewards of the taxpayer\u2019s money, and that is what I aim to do.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:15Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=33183BE3-7213-45B4-958E-806D5A70D6D0", "Congressman DesJarlais Delivers Remarks on the Need to Repeal Health Care Bill", "2011-02-06", "2011", "2011-02", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013Congressman Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) delivered remarks on the House floor today during consideration of H.R. 2. The following are Congressman DesJarlais\u2019 remarks as prepared for delivery:\n\n\u201cAs a practicing physician for nearly two decades in Tennessee, I stand before you as an expert witness to the failures of a government run health care model. ObamaCare takes the problems I\u2019ve seen in my home state and expands them to a national level.\n\n\u201cThis bill raises taxes, increases spending and will add 701 billion dollars to the federal deficit. Most importantly, ObamaCare will ultimately end up restricting patient\u2019s access to quality health care by placing a Washington bureaucrat between patients and their doctors\n\n\u201cMoving forward, we do offer solutions to our nation\u2019s health care system. We must work toward reducing the waste, fraud and abuse in Medicare and instituting meaningful tort reform, thus decreasing the practice of defensive medicine. We can accomplish these goals without the creation of a giant new federal bureaucracy.\n\n\u201cBy voting to repeal this unnecessary health care bill we will effectively put a stop to the creation of a massive entitlement program that we did not ask for, we do not need and we cannot afford.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:15Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=40FA8006-27B4-4AF7-9C4A-7FB3566B2B87", "Representative Scott DesJarlais Votes to Pass Resolution Condemning Tragedy in Arizona", "2011-02-06", "2011", "2011-02", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "On Wednesday, January 12, the House passed a resolution condemning the brutal attack on Representative Gabrielle Giffords and the other victims of the Tucson, Arizona shooting tragedy. The resolution also honors the memory of the six lives that were lost, expresses hope for the rapid and complete recovery of those wounded and recognizes the bravery of the individuals who helped in subduing the attacker and saving lives. The copy of the four-page resolution can be found here.\n\nUpon passage of the resolution, Congressman DesJarlais (TN-04) noted:\n\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased that Members of the House of Representatives came together today to speak with a unified voice in both condemning this heinous attack, and expressing our condolences to the friends and families of all the innocent victims that were killed or wounded due to this horrific act of violence.\n\n\u201cThis resolution reaffirms the democratic principles that Congresswoman Giffords herself espoused when she read the First Amendment of the Constitution during the opening week of the 112th Congress \u2013 the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.\n\n\u201cIt is critical that we send a message that threats of violence and intimidation will not prevent Americans from participating in the democratic process. I will continue to fulfill my obligation of representing the people of Tennessee\u2019s fourth Congressional District by making myself directly available to the people that I serve in order to foster discussion and exchange ideas.\u201d\n\nAdditionally, a bipartisan prayer service honoring Giffords and the Arizona shooting victims was held at 1 p.m. EST.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:15Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=61BB4983-18E4-49E6-9EF2-6AD1B5DDB30E", "Congressman DesJarlais Delivers Remarks Celebrating President Reagan's 100th Birthday", "2011-02-06", "2011", "2011-02", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Congressman Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) delivered remarks on the House floor today paying tribute to President Ronald Reagan\u2019s 100th birthday, which took place on Sunday, February 6, 2011.\n\n\u201cMy colleagues have done an excellent job today in eloquently paying tribute to Ronald Reagan\u2019s life and the many accomplishments he achieved throughout his presidency.\n\nI\u2019d like to take a moment though to recognize one of the most instrumental figures in shaping the Reagan legacy \u00ad\u2013 Nancy Reagan.\n\nIn the immutable words of John Donne, \"No man is an Island, entire of itself,\" and with all the accolades we bestow on President Reagan, we must remember that Nancy was a key part of the Reagan team.\n\nShe was an uncommon confidant and was always there to provide the President with unconditional support, which no doubt, served as a source of his strength.\n\nI believe President Reagan would find any tribute to him inadequate without also recognizing the person he described as the \u201ccompanion without whom I\u2019m never quite complete or happy.\u201d\n\nSo thank you Mrs. Reagan for the role that you played in guiding our country through difficult times and ensuring that America forever remains a shining city upon a hill.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:15Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=C31EB90D-1737-4BFE-B7BA-DAD7380A0579", "Congressman DesJarlais Attends National Prayer Breakfast", "2011-02-06", "2011", "2011-02", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "On Thursday, February 3, 2011 Congressman Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) attended the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C. with his wife, Amy. This yearly event, which is hosted by the United States Congress, is attended by roughly 3,500 guests from over 100 countries, including the President of the United States, the President\u2019s Cabinet, Members of Congress, the U.S. diplomatic corps and other world leaders. Every U.S. President since Dwight Eisenhower has participated in the breakfast.\n\n\u201cI was deeply honored to attend my first National Prayer Breakfast as the Representative from Tennessee\u2019s Fourth Congressional District,\u201d said Congressman Scott DesJarlais. \u201cMy faith has played an integral part in shaping the values and principles that have defined me as a person, and will serve as a guiding light throughout my service in the United States Congress. Although many of the people that attended today may differ on ideas of policy, I was glad to see that we could all come together in asking God to bless our country.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:15Z"], ["https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=45D4674B-AE8B-4BBF-8436-A714F9802B8C", "112th United States Congress Takes Office", "2011-01-04", "2011", "2011-01", "Republican", "House", "TN", "Scott DesJarlais", "D000616", "desjarlais.house.gov", "desjarlais", "https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center", "scraper", "Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) was sworn in as a Member of the 112th Congress on January 5th, 2011 by House Speaker John Boehner. Speaker Boehner conducted the individual ceremonial swearing-in for Rep. DesJarlais and his family following the official oath of office on the floor of the House of Representatives\n\n\u201cI am deeply honored by this opportunity to represent the people of Tennessee\u2019s 4th Congressional District in Congress and will remain committed to my promise of returning fiscal discipline and accountability to Washington, reducing the size of government and finding ways to create jobs,\" said Congressman DesJarlais. \u201cMost importantly, I\u2019ll never forget that the people of Tennessee chose to send a local doctor to Washington, D.C. because they wanted someone who would represent their hometown interests and never lose sight of the fact that Members of Congress are there to serve the people, not themselves.I look forward to working tirelessly for the people of Tennessee\u2019s 4th Congressional District and representing them with the honor and integrity that they deserve.\u201d\n\nAfter being sworn in, Representative DesJarlais voted for the new Republican Rules Packagefor the 112th Congress, an important first step in restoring transparency and openness in Congress.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T21:12:09Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 60, "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 \"state\" = :p0 and \"year\" = :p1 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "TN", "p1": "2011"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=TN&year=2011", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 60, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=TN&year=2011&party=Republican", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=TN&year=2011", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 60, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=TN&year=2011&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=TN&year=2011", "results": [{"value": "TN", "label": "TN", "count": 60, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?year=2011", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=TN&year=2011", "results": [{"value": "2011", "label": "2011", "count": 60, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=TN", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": null, "next_url": null, "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 301.2148877605796, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}