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3,864 rows where party = "Democrat", state = "CA" and year = 2018 sorted by date descending

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  • House 3,864
url title date ▲ year month party chamber state member_name bioguide_id domain scraper source date_source text has_text collected_at updated_at
https://pelosi.house.gov/news/pelosi-updates/one-week-and-counting One Week And Counting 2018-12-31 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Nancy Pelosi P000197 pelosi.house.gov     legacy Frequently Asked Questions on the Trump Government Shutdown Will my mail still arrive during the shutdown? Yes. The U.S. Postal Service is not affected by a government shutdown. The U.S. Postal Service is an independent entity that is funded through the sale of its products and services, and not by tax dollars.Will I continue to receive my Social Security checks? Yes. During a government shutdown, recipients continue to receive their Social Security checks.Will Medicare and Medicaid be interrupted? No. The operations of Medicare and Medicaid will operate normally during the shutdown.Can I get taxpayer assistance from IRS personnel during the shutdown? It will likely be difficult. If the Trump Shutdown goes into January, it will have a significant impact on the IRS.While the shutdown continues, 90 percent of the IRS staff is furloughed.IRS's tax filing season is January-April. Beginning in January, some Americans will start thinking about filing their 2018 taxes, due April 15, 2019. This will be the first year when Americans are filing their taxes under the new GOP tax law, and many will have numerous questions. If the Trump Shutdown continues, the limited IRS staff will be unable to keep up with the questions coming in from taxpayers using the IRS customer service hotline.Can I get a passport during the shutdown? Perhaps, with it depending on where you live. The U.S. Passport Agency remains open during the shutdown and continues to issue passports. However, depending on where you live, the State Department could curtail issuing passports where those passport services are offered in buildings run by another agency that is shut down. Will I be able to continue visiting the national parks during the shutdown?The Trump Administration claims that the vast majority of national parks are open during the shutdown (on the grounds that barriers have not been put up at the parks to prevent entry.) However, the fact is that there arenoservices for visitors to National Park Service sites during th… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://bass.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-bass-statement-appointment-cheryl-johnson-next-house-clerk Rep. Bass Statement on Appointment of Cheryl Johnson as Next House Clerk 2018-12-28 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Karen Bass B001270 bass.house.gov     legacy Los Angeles, CA Office 4929 Wilshire Blvd Suite 650 Los Angeles,CA 90010 Phone: (323) 965-1422 Fax: (323) 965-1113 Washington, DC Office 2059 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-7084 Fax: (202) 225-2422 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.feinstein.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=A562073E-498D-44A3-A299-81676BFF6B58 Feinstein: Trump Attacks on Northern Triangle Nations Cover for Bad Border Wall Idea 2018-12-28 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Dianne Feinstein F000062 www.feinstein.senate.gov     legacy WashingtonSenate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today responded to President Trump's call to end funding for Northern Triangle nations: President Trump this morning once again attacked Mexico and Central America, raising the specter of another so-called caravan to stoke fears of his political base and justify his ill-conceived border wall. His actions continue to be incredibly irresponsible and threaten to further destabilize the region. The only person who doesn't understand why people are leaving El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras is President Trump. The violence and intense poverty in those countries are forcing families to flee for their lives. A humanitarian crisis deserves a humanitarian response, not a heartless attack. We'll never help improve living conditions in those countries if we further isolate them, a fact that President Trump refuses to acknowledge. Even members of Trump's own administration say economic development in Central America is key to solving this crisis, but still the president refuses to listen. It's clear that President Trump is prolonging his government shutdown for political reasons. I'm hopeful that congressional leaders can come together and end this wasteful stalemate without squandering billions of taxpayer dollars on the president's absurd border wall. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.feinstein.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=F17C1D0F-654E-4A4E-AB09-3730CD41587D Feinstein Calls for Judiciary Committee Hearing on CBP Treatment of Immigrant Children 2018-12-27 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Dianne Feinstein F000062 www.feinstein.senate.gov     legacy WashingtonSenate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today called on incoming Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) to hold a hearing on the treatment of immigrant children by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The request comes after two young children died this month while in Border Patrol custody. These heartbreaking incidents are sadly consistent with previous reports of widespread abuse of children in immigration custody and the judgement of medical and mental health organizations that Border Patrol facilities are not adequately staffed or equipped to properly care for children, Senator Feinstein wrote. Our committee is uniquely situated to examine these issues and I hope we can schedule a hearing immediately in the new year. Full text of the letter follows: December 27, 2018 The Honorable Lindsey Graham Committee on the Judiciary United States Senate 290 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Graham, In light of the deaths of two young children in Border Patrol custody this month, I write to request that the Committee hold a hearing upon our return on the care and treatment of children in the custody of Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This December alone, two young children have died in Border Patrol custody, and an infant has been hospitalized shortly after release. Most recently, on Christmas Eve, 8-year-old Felipe Alonzo-Gomez died after suffering flu-like symptoms in Border Patrol custody. Before his death, Felipe was detained for well over the permitted 72-hour period. It appears that Felipe was released from the hospital with a fever of 103, and no EMT was on duty to help him. Sadly, Felipe's death was not an isolated incident. Earlier this month, Jakelin Caal Maquin, a 7-year old girl from Guatemala, died after she and her father turned themselves into Border Patrol. Border Patrol initially reported that Jakelin had not eaten or drank for several days, despite having access to food and water while in custody. H… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/congresswoman-lees-statement-on-the-death-of-7-year-old-felipe-alonzo-gomez Congresswoman Lee’s Statement on the Death of 7 Year Old Felipe Alonzo-Gomez 2018-12-26 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Barbara Lee L000551 lee.house.gov     legacy 12.26.18 Congresswoman Lee's Statement on the Death of 7 Year Old Felipe Alonzo-Gomez Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Barbara Lee released the following statement on the death of seven-year-old Felipe Alonzo-Gomez in CBP custody: I am deeply saddened by the passing of Felipe Alonzo-Gomez on Christmas Day. My heart is with Felipe's family and loved ones in the wake of this unimaginable loss. This is the second death of a child in CBP custody this month a stunning, horrifying and unacceptable track record for the agency. Along with my colleagues, I urge an immediate investigation from the Department of Homeland Security Inspector General into these senseless deaths of two innocent children under CBP supervision. Children don't belong in jail. We must end this inhumane zero tolerance policy immediately. ### Previous Article 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/pelosi-statement-on-death-of-felipe-alonzo-gomez-at-the-border-on-christmas Pelosi Statement on Death of Felipe Alonzo-Gomez at the Border on Christmas 2018-12-26 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Nancy Pelosi P000197 pelosi.house.gov     legacy Contact: Ashley Etienne/Henry Connelly, 202-226-7616 San Francisco Speaker-designate Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement after reports that an eight-year-old boy died on Christmas in the custody of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, following the death of seven-year-old Jakelin Amei Rosmery Caal Maquin earlier this month: "The tragic death of an innocent child on Christmas Day breaks the hearts of all. "We all have a moral responsibility to ensure all children of God are treated with compassion and decency. The death now of two children in U.S. custody is unconscionable. "Democrats call on Homeland Security's Inspector General to immediately open an investigation into Felipe Alzono-Gomez's death. The Congress will also investigate this tragedy and the heartbreaking death of Jakelin Amei Rosmery Caal Maquin, to seek justice and ensure that no other child is left to such a fate. # # # 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.feinstein.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=758234DD-7C16-440D-BFB3-3742214858A6 Feinstein to CBP: Revise Protocol for Treatment of Immigrant Children 2018-12-26 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Dianne Feinstein F000062 www.feinstein.senate.gov     legacy WashingtonSenate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today called on Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Kevin McAleenan to provide a detailed accounting of the death of Felipe Alonzo-Gomez and revise CBP rules concerning treatment of immigrant children. Senator Feinstein called on CBP to ensure that children are released from detention within 72 hours as required by law. She also demanded the agency account for the need to communicate with detainees in their native languages and develop standards of care in consultation with pediatricians and child welfare experts. I am writing to voice my strong concern about the recent deaths and illnesses of children detained in Border Patrol custody, and to request a full accounting and a revised protocol to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future, Senator Feinstein wrote. Full text of the letter follows: December 26, 2018 Commissioner Kevin K. McAleenan U.S. Customs and Border Protection 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Washington, DC 20229 Dear Commissioner, I am writing to voice my strong concern about the recent deaths and illnesses of children detained in Border Patrol custody, and to request a full accounting and a revised protocol to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. December has been a devastating month for children in Border Patrol custody: On December 8, 7-year-old Jakelin Caal Maquin died of dehydration and shock after 36 hours in Border Patrol detention. Jakelin's father reports that she did not receive water and agents did not speak to him in his native language during this time. On December 19, a five-month-old infant was hospitalized with pneumonia shortly after her release from Border Patrol custody. The baby's mother reports that the baby was held in a freezing cell and deprived of her prescribed antibiotics. Finally, on Christmas Eve, 8-year-old Felipe Alonzo-Gomez died after suffering flu-like symptoms in Border patrol custody. Before his death, Felipe was detained for well o… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pelosi.house.gov/news/pelosi-updates/trumpshutdown-0 #TrumpShutdown 2018-12-24 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Nancy Pelosi P000197 pelosi.house.gov     legacy Trump Temper Tantrum On Thursday night, House Republicans voted to shut down government refusing to vote on a bill to keep government open that was unanimously passed by the Senate, and choosing instead to push a radical border wall bill that is dead on arrival. Now knowing that he doesn't have the votes in the Senate to fund his immoral, ineffective and expensive wall President Trump is throwing a tantrum, threatening a very long shutdown. Over and over, President Trump has declared that he'd be proud to shut down the government, even saying I will take the mantle. I will be the one to shut it down if he cannot force American taxpayers to spend billions of dollars on an immoral, ineffective and expensive wall. Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi and Senator Chuck Schumer held a press conference this week after President Trump announced that he would not keep government open if it did not include funding for a border wall. Democrats have offered three options to keep government open but President Trump and House Republicans are deciding to drive our nation into a pointless, destructive shutdown over the holidays. If they steer our nation into a Trump Shutdown, in early January, the new House Democratic Majority will swiftly pass the appropriation bills with a CR for Homeland Security to re-open government. My office was able to advocate for an emergency disability benefit check for an unhoused constituent. My constituent opened a new bank account and closed his old account prior to changing his direct deposit information with the Social Security Administration (SSA). Because of this, my constituent had not received his benefits necessary to support himself. SSA dispersed an emergency check within 24 hours of our request. Caseworkers in my San Francisco office work to address any problems or concerns you may have with a federal government agency. To submit a Casework Authorization Form, pleasevisitmy website. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://desaulnier.house.gov/media-center/desaulnier-digest/special-edition-passage-republican-tax-plan Special Edition: Passage of the Republican Tax Plan 2018-12-22 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Mark DeSaulnier D000623 desaulnier.house.gov     legacy Dear Contra Costa Residents: This week, two major pieces of legislation were considered in Congress that will have a significant impact on every household and the country as a whole. In order to help keep our community informed, we wanted to take the time to send out a special edition of our weekly newsletter that focuses on the Republican tax bill and efforts to fund the government, both of which passed the House and Senate this week and were signed into law today. REPUBLICAN TAX PLAN Republicans rushed through the biggest tax overhaul since 1986 in just over one month. The partisan process included only one hearing in the House, two in the Senate, and none of the hundreds of amendments Democrats offered. The bill is one-sided, worsens inequality, and leaves the middle class to foot the bill for the lavish gifts given to corporations and the rich. For this reason, not a single Democrat supported it, myself included. Below are some of the troubling provisions included in the bill: - Huge tax breaks to the top 5% in perpetuity, with the biggest gains going to the top 1% and corporations; - Many middle class families will pay more in taxes by 2027; - Undercutting the State and Local Tax deduction (SALT) by capping it at $10,000 double-taxing on average $13,000 of annual income for Californians; - Adds $2.2 trillion to the national debt over ten years, and leading to future cuts to programs middle class families rely on like Social Security; and - Causes 13 million people to lose health coverage by dramatically undermining the Affordable Care Act. Despite my strong opposition, the bill passed the House by a vote of 224-to-201, and was signed into law by President Trump today. Below you will find my statement on the passage of this bill. Congressman DeSaulnier's Statement on Passage of the Republican Tax Scam: The long-term effects of this plan, which adds $2.2 trillion to the national debt and causes 13 million to lose health coverage, will be devastating to the American public and will lead to future… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://desaulnier.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-desaulnier-s-statement-government-shutdown Congressman DeSaulniers Statement on Government Shutdown 2018-12-22 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Mark DeSaulnier D000623 desaulnier.house.gov     legacy Washington, DC Today, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-11) issued the following statement on the government shutdown. This government shutdown was entirely avoidable and is the responsibility of President Trump, who boasted that he was proud to shut down the government.' He put far right radio and TV pundits ahead of the American people and created uncertainty and instability for more than 420,000 federal workers who are furloughed or will be forced to work without pay this holiday season. House Democrats were poised to vote in favor of a clean plan to temporarily fund the government and were denied. Republicans have the ability to reopen the government at any time. If they don't, Democrats will take control of the House in January and govern responsibly. I stand ready to work with my colleagues to reopen the government at the earliest possible date. # 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://desaulnier.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-desaulniers-statement-government-shutdown Congressman DeSaulnier’s Statement on Government Shutdown 2018-12-22 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Mark DeSaulnier D000623 desaulnier.house.gov desaulnier https://desaulnier.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-11) issued the following statement on the government shutdown. "This government shutdown was entirely avoidable and is the responsibility of President Trump, who boasted that he was ‘proud to shut down the government.' He put far right radio and TV pundits ahead of the American people and created uncertainty and instability for more than 420,000 federal workers who are furloughed or will be forced to work without pay this holiday season. House Democrats were poised to vote in favor of a clean plan to temporarily fund the government and were denied. Republicans have the ability to reopen the government at any time. If they don't, Democrats will take control of the House in January and govern responsibly. I stand ready to work with my colleagues to reopen the government at the earliest possible date." # 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://khanna.house.gov/media/editorials/trump-was-right-to-pull-out-of-syria-afghanistan Trump was right to pull out of Syria and Afghanistan. This is what he should do next. 2018-12-22 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Ro Khanna K000389 khanna.house.gov     legacy The Washington Post Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) is on the Armed Services Committee and represents Silicon Valley. President Trump is receiving an onslaught of criticism for his decision to withdraw troops from Syria and Afghanistan. Congressional Democrats should not pile on without offering an alternative vision. We should applaud the president's desire to put an end to these interventions, but should challenge him to assemble a team that does so with better planning and diplomacy. We should articulate a foreign policy doctrine of responsible withdrawal that prioritizes restraint and human rights. Let's start with a fact that the mainstream media has glossed over when criticizing Trump's Syria decision: His decision is in compliance with U.S. and international law. The presence of U.S. troops in the Syrian civil war was never authorized by Congress. We are also violating international law by invading Syria without the approval of the United Nations. Before any administration official can advocate keeping troops in Syria to fight the Islamic State, Congress needs to offer authorization. Trump also deserves credit for standing up to the war hawks within his own administration who started inventing rationales for remaining in the country: countering Iran and seeing an end to the Assad regime. That is the definition of mission creep. While Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is a brutal dictator and should be tried at the Hague for international war crimes, the United States should not militarily overthrow him. There is no doubt Trump should have articulated a more prudent withdrawal strategy. He could have consulted beforehand with our allies and regional partners. One alternative to an immediate withdrawal in Syria is announcing a full withdrawal over the next few months. That would give us time to prepare local forces and to deploy intelligence platforms and networks that address potential terrorist threats. We also cannot just leave without some consideration of our moral obligations to the Syrians that come from having e… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://panetta.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-panetta-statement-president-trump-s-government-shutdown Congressman Panetta Statement on President Trumps Government Shutdown 2018-12-22 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Jimmy Panetta P000613 panetta.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DCToday, Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-20) released the following statement after the latest government shutdown. Disappointingly, the federal government has partially shut down as of this morning. Disturbingly, President Donald Trump called for this shutdown more than 25 times and now has gotten what he wanted. Decisively, Congressional Democrats offered multiple proposals to keep the government open, including one that passed the Senate unanimously, and all of which included funding for strong, sensible, and effective border security, not an ineffective and expensive wall. "Despite the President's rejection of those proposals and his call for this shutdown, Democrats will continue to work with Republicans to come to an agreement to reopen our government. It is imperative thatthe President stop threatening the stability and prosperity of our country over an ill-conceived campaign promise and that Congress come together to responsibly identify a long-term budget solution to fund our government. Due to the shutdown, over 39,000 employees in California will be forced to go without pay over the holidays. Nationwide, 380,000 federal workers will be furloughed, and 420,000 employees will work without pay. Nearly one-third of all federal employees are veterans. Impacted employees with critical safety, security, and emergency management missions include FBI agents, U.S. Marshals, TSA employees, Coast Guard employees, and Forest Service firefighters. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://aguilar.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/rep-pete-aguilar-will-have-key-role-next-year-s-democratic-house Rep. Pete Aguilar will have a key role in next years Democratic House 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Pete Aguilar A000371 aguilar.house.gov     legacy The 31st District Congressman ushered in new laws, held numerous resource and job fairs, helped constituents sort out issues with federal agencies and, in November,won re-election. As Aguilar heads into the next session, which starts Jan. 3, he will be part of a Democratic majority that will control the House of Representatives for the first time in his four-year tenure in congress. Aguilar also is expected to be Chief Deputy Whip, giving him and residents of the 31st District a seat at the leadership table. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://bass.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/rep-bass-talks-possible-shutdown-tmz Rep. Bass Talks Possible Shutdown On TMZ 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Karen Bass B001270 bass.house.gov     legacy Los Angeles, CA Office 4929 Wilshire Blvd Suite 650 Los Angeles,CA 90010 Phone: (323) 965-1422 Fax: (323) 965-1113 Washington, DC Office 2059 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-7084 Fax: (202) 225-2422 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://carbajal.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=443 Rep. Carbajal Statement on Partial Government Shutdown 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Salud Carbajal C001112 carbajal.house.gov     legacy Today, Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24) released the following statement ahead of a possible partial government shutdown tonight at midnight: Earlier this week, the Senate passed a bipartisan spending bill, following an agreement with President Trump, which funded the government through February. Instead of bringing the Senate's clean spending bill to a vote, lame duck House Republicans conspired with the President to add $5.7 billion in wasteful spending for an ineffective border wall leading us straight toward a partial government shutdown. The President's senseless border wall is nothing more than an archaic solution to a 21st century problem and fails to meet our security needs at the border. I voted against funding for the wall and remain hopeful that Congress and the President can work together on a bipartisan basis to bring forward a clean spending bill to fund the government responsibly before tonight's shutdown. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://cardenas.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressmen-c-rdenas-passage-historic-first-step-act Congressmen Crdenas on the passage of the historic First Step Act 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Tony Cárdenas C001097 cardenas.house.gov     legacy I am proud to announce the passage of The First Step Act, one of my top priorities this Congress and the most meaningful overhaul of the criminal justice system in decades. This law will change lives immediately upon its passage. It will make our communities safer and it will drastically reduce tax-payer dollars being wasted on inappropriate sentencing. It pulls back severe sentencing laws that up until now have sent many Americans to jail for the rest of their life for minor drug offenses. This law is the first legislation to roll back some of the restrictions that disproportionally jailed men and women of color and created a system where minorities fill our prisons while white collar criminals go free. This law works to end the cruel practice of solitary confinement for juveniles, and includes provisions from the Protecting Youth from Solitary Confinement Act, a bill which I have introduced for the last three sessions of Congress. It is long past time we signed these protections into law. Now this law isn't perfect, but it's title is. This is a first step, and we have an obligation to finish the job for the thousands of men and women who have paid their debt to society, yet remain in prison. There is more work to do if we are going to create a justice system that prioritizes safety, prevention, and redemption. I have fought for justice reform for more than 20 years, and I am ready to fight for 20 more. I would like to thank my colleagues in Congress for taking this first step with me. Now let's finish the job. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://cardenas.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/representatives-c-rdenas-kinzinger-cohen-and-wagner-praise-final-passage Representatives Crdenas, Kinzinger, Cohen and Wagner Praise Final Passage of SOAR Act 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Tony Cárdenas C001097 cardenas.house.gov     legacy Representatives Crdenas, Kinzinger, Cohen and Wagner Praise Final Passage of SOAR Act Grants would provide training for health professionals to spot signs of human trafficking WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Tony Crdenas (D-CA), Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), , and Congressman Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) praised final passage of the Stop, Observe, Ask and Respond (SOAR) to Health and Wellness Training Program (H.R. 767) today on a 386 to 6 vote, a measure to provide training to health care professionals on identifying and assisting victims of human trafficking. Congressman Crdenas said: When I wasa Los Angeles City Councilman, I saw first-hand the danger and heartbreak of human trafficking taking place in our own communities, right under our noses. We need to give healthcare professionals the necessary tools to recognize human trafficking victims amongst their patients, give them the support that they need, and help bring the perpetrators to justice. Though Los Angeles is making progress in eradicating this despicablecrime, we still have so much work to do. I am grateful to my colleagues in the House and the Senate for supporting the SOAR Act, and hope that the President can sign it into law soon so we can save more lives. I would like to thank Representatives Ann Wagner, Steve Cohen and Adam Kinzinger for their work on these issues, and for showing that even with today's politics we can still come together to help the most vulnerable among us. Congressman Cohen said: I am grateful to my colleagues for helping get this important bill through Congress. I especially want to thank Representatives Ann Wagner, Tony Cardenas andAdam Kinzinger for their tireless efforts. This bill is the result of an event held at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis in 2016 to discuss and promote human trafficking awareness training, attended by first responders, health care workers, faith-based groups, educators and state and local government officials. The energy, encouragement and … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://cardenas.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-congressman-c-rdenas-possible-government-shutdown Statement from Congressman Crdenas on a Possible Government Shutdown: 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Tony Cárdenas C001097 cardenas.house.gov     legacy This week, I reported to the floor of the House of Representatives and voted to respect the U.S. economy and keep the U.S. government open. Our president is willing to hurt working families for his own vanity. He promised a wall and he promised the American people that they will not have to pay for it, and now he is trying to shut down the U.S. government if he doesn't get to spend five billion American tax-payer dollars to build it. We deserve better from the President than to hold American families and the economy hostage for political gain, especially this time of year. For my part, I will keep fighting to protect American families in the days to come. Contact: Bryan Doyle (202) 225-6131 bryan.doyle@mail.house.gov 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://chu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-chu-statement-house-vote-wall-funding-and-government-shutdown Rep. Chu Statement on House Vote for Wall Funding and a Government Shutdown 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Judy Chu C001080 chu.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. On Thursday night, the Republican-led House of Representatives passed a funding bill to keep the government open until February 8, 2019 that also included $5.7 billion in new appropriations for President Trump's border wall, something Senate leaders have said does not stand a chance of passing through their chamber. Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27) released the following statement: Last night, Republicans voted to bring us closer to a government shutdown. That means thousands of Americans may not receive their hard-earned paychecks right before Christmas because this president refuses to stop campaigning and start governing. Republicans cannot even be honest with the American people about why they're shutting down the government. This is not about border security the claim that ten terrorists a day approach our border is fiction. And it's not about the opioid epidemic the vast majority of drugs come through our country's legal ports of entry. This is 100% about stoking the fires of xenophobia that fuel this presidency. And we will not play along. Trump said this is a shutdown he would be proud to own. Now that he sees how unpopular it is, he is attempting to shift the blame. There is one way for him to get out of this crisis of his own making, and that is to drop the ridiculous demand for an ineffective and expensive border wall which will have no impact on our security or drug trade, but will instead stand as a government-built monument to bigotry. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://khanna.house.gov/media/newsletter-archive/2018-year-review 2018 Year in Review 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Ro Khanna K000389 khanna.house.gov     legacy Happy holidays, Silicon Valley! As we close out an eventful 2018, I want to reflect on the privilege it has been to represent you in Congress. I am grateful for each of who took the time to make your voice heard by contacting me with your views and concerns. My Santa Clara and Washington, DC offices received 33,230 calls, e-mails, and letters from CA-17 residents who care deeply about their how the government works for their families and communities. Your passion is inspiring and helps me be a more informed and effective representative. I would like to highlight some of our work and accomplishments in Washington, DC and here in the Bay Area over the past year that has contributed to progress made towards improving the lives of the people in our region and across the country. Constituent Service Award Nomination In January, our district office was informed that we qualified for the semifinals of the Congressional Management Foundation's Constituent Services award, which is an honor for any first-term member of Congress. With more than 80 percent of our case work related to immigration, our constituents and their families face serious challenges. We are proud of the level to which we have been able to help them solve problems and make government work for them. This year we have completed more than 750 cases for Silicon Valley residents who needed help navigating the federal bureaucracy. Fighting Airplane Noise in the South Bay In September, I wrote a letter to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) asking for the disruptive Bay Side Visual flight path to be eliminated. The FAA responded a month later, confirming that our request has been granted, and the route into the San Carlos Airport has been canceled. This is a big victory for all residents in the area who have had to deal with disruptive airplane noise. Steve Kerr Joins Student Town Hall on Gun Violence This past March, Warriors Head Coach Steve Kerr joined me at Newark Memorial High School for a discussion with Matt Deitsch, a Stoneman Douglas High School… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://khanna.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-rep-khanna-statement-support-reported-us-troop-pullout-afghanistan STATEMENT: Rep. Khanna statement of support on reported U.S. troop pullout from Afghanistan 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Ro Khanna K000389 khanna.house.gov khanna https://khanna.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – In light of possible plans to withdraw up to half of the 14,000 American troops serving in Afghanistan, U.S. officials said yesterday, Rep. Khanna, member of the House Armed Services Committee, issued the below statement. "I support a responsible withdrawal of American military forces in Afghanistan. If we hope to end the security challenge posed by terrorism, the answer is not an indefinite deployment of U.S. troops in the region. Instead, we must have a robust, multilateral, and inclusive diplomatic initiative to encourage national reconciliation, local peacebuilding efforts, and the engagement of regional actors such as Pakistan, Iran, Russia, China, and India. The State Department needs a strategy to secure an inclusive and lasting peace settlement, a plan for the full withdrawal of U.S. troops from the country, and sustained support for nonmilitary peacebuilding solutions to secure any political settlement reached by the Afghan people. We also need a short timeline for withdrawal so there can be a smooth transition, a sense of the intelligence platforms and networks that can replace them to guard against terrorist threats, and a plan on how we would act on actionable intelligence if terrorists posed a threat to our homeland. The current approach of engaging in direct talks with the Afghan Taliban as a means to achieving a political solution to the conflict is a good one. After 17 years of war, we need a negotiated political settlement to the war that is acceptable to the Afghan people and allows the United States to end our involvement in war as soon as possible. Over $43 billion dollars are currently being spent on Afghanistan each year and the Taliban now exerts influence or maintains control over 50 percent of Afghan territory. This shows our military-first strategy and the surge is not working. In sum, Trump's instincts to withdraw are correct. But the tactical implementation matters. He needs to surround himself with people like George Shultz, Bill Perry, Larry Korb, or Ben Rhodes w… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://lieu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-lieu-and-calvert-urge-defense-sec-use-california-aerospace-assets REPS LIEU AND CALVERT URGE DEFENSE SEC TO USE CALIFORNIA AEROSPACE ASSETS FOR SPACE FORCE 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Ted Lieu L000582 lieu.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON -Today, Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) and Congressman Ken Calvert (R-CA), co-chairs of the California Aerospace Caucus, sent a letter to Secretary of Defense James Mattis urging him to utilize California's existing aerospace assets including the Air Force's Space and Missile Systems Center when building out a Space Force. In the letter, the Members write: We support DoD's renewed focus on space and effort to conduct a thoughtful, strategic reorganization. Given our nation's dependence on space-based technology for everything from communications to navigation and the rapid gains by our adversaries to threaten those assets, it is critical that we have the best structure in place to ensure continued U.S. superiority. As we design that structure, however, we must avoid inadvertent setbacks by dismantling what is already working. As Co-Chairs of the California Aerospace Caucus, we are immensely proud of our state's space-focused organizations, innovators, researchers and workforce. It is no coincidence that the Air Force's Space and Missile System Center (SMC), which executes 85 percent of the Department's military space procurement budget, calls California home. SMC is part of a unique, symbiotic aerospace hub in California that includes the two federally-funded research and development centers (FFRDC) most dedicated to space, Aerospace Corporation and NASA's Jet-Propulsion Laboratory; installations with important space-related missions at Vandenberg AFB, Edwards AFB, and Ames Research Center; top university programs in aerospace engineering; leading space companies like United Launch Alliance, SpaceX, and Aerojet Rocketdyne; the nation's only aerospace startup accelerator, Starburst; and the highly-educated, specialized workforce that makes it all possible. California's aerospace industry makes up 10 percent of the global market and includes 25 percent of all U.S. jobs in space vehicles and guided missiles. An aerospace hub like California's takes decades to develop and cannot be easil… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://scottpeters.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-peters-votes-no-on-border-wall-calls-it-trump-s-wasteful-monument-to Rep. Peters Votes No on Border Wall, Calls it Trumps Wasteful Monument to Himself 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Scott Peters P000608 scottpeters.house.gov     legacy Today, U.S. Congressman Scott Peters (CA-52) opposed Congressional Republicans' vote to spend more than $5 billion on a senseless border wall, jeopardizing government funding and operations. This reckless move could force 420,000 federal employees, including 54,000 Customs and Border Patrol Agents, 53,000 TSA employees, 42,000 Coast Guard employees, and as many as 6,000 Forest Service Firefighters, to work without pay during the holidays. The Senate is expected to consider this funding package tomorrow. Tonight's vote proves the spinelessness of Congressional Republicans, unwilling to say no to the President. President Trump is jeopardizing government funding over the construction of a wasteful monument to himself. Last fiscal year, congressional Republicans brought five short-term spending bills to a vote, which failed to provide certainty to our military, research institutions, and federal agenciesand we still had a government shutdown in January. Today, we find ourselves on the brink of disaster again. This President and his lemmings in Congress want to shut down the government and force 420,000 federal employees to go without pay during the holidays, all because Rush Limbaugh said so. Every day I come to work ready to work with my colleagues to forge consensus and make government work. Today, I am horribly disappointed in my GOP colleagues who knew this was wrong but caved to this ridiculous President,said Rep. Peters. Last year, Rep. Peters penned an op-ed in Pomerado News on how continued short-term funding bills of the federal government hurt San Diego, especially its military and defense sectors. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sherman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sherman-comments-on-release-of-santa-susana-field-laboratory Congressman Sherman Comments on Release of Santa Susana Field Laboratory Report 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Brad Sherman S000344 sherman.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. The U.S. Department of Energy has released its Final Environmental Impact Statement for cleanup of its portion of the Santa Susana Field Laboratory (SSFL) site, located in Ventura County, California. The report recommends a lesser soil cleanup standard than established in the 2010 Administrative Order on Consent (AOC) that was entered into with the State of California. In response, Congressman Brad Sherman said, The AOC is a binding agreement between the federal government and the state of CA. Under the AOC, those who live near the Santa Susana Field Laboratory are entitled to a full cleanup of the contaminated site. It is unacceptable that the U.S. Department of Energy would propose anything less and walk away from previously agreed upon standards. The California Department of Toxic Substances Control should require the full cleanup called for in the AOC. Today's statement from Congressman Sherman echoes his prior statement. On April 12, 2017, Congressman Sherman commented in writing on the U.S. Department of Energy's Draft Environmental Impact Statement, The U.S. Department of Energy should not consider alternatives that do not provide for a complete cleanup of the facility. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sherman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/representatives-sherman-and-yoho-introduce-legislation-to-stand-up-for Representatives Sherman and Yoho Introduce Legislation to Stand Up for Human Rights in Xinjiang, China 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Brad Sherman S000344 sherman.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA), the Ranking Member of the Asia Subcommittee, and Congressman Ted Yoho (R-FL), the Chairman of the Asia Subcommittee introduced the Uighur Intervention and Global Humanitarian Unified Response (UIGHUR) Act. The legislation is cosponsored by Congressman Gerry Connolly (D-VA), Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), and Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA). Currently, in the Chinese region of Xinjiang, as many as one million Uighurs and other Turkic Muslim minorities are being detained in so-called political re-education camps. Meanwhile, Uighurs living outside of China are being harassed and silenced including here in the United States. The bipartisan legislation will prevent advanced technologies from being exported to China to facilitate human rights violations in Xinjiang, ensure the federal government does not procure from companies that help Beijing unjustly detain Turkic Muslims, and create new mechanisms for reporting Chinese government surveillance in the United States. Beijing thinks we will turn a blind eye as it targets Turkic Muslims around the world. We must prove them wrong, said Congressman Sherman. By preventing companies from profiting off of human rights violations and mandating increased transparency, this legislation will send more than a powerful message. It will also create meaningful tools for the United States to hold China accountable. I am happy to introduce this important legislation with Ranking Member Sherman. Cutting-edge technologies should be used to lift up, not oppress humanity. The existence of mass detention centers -renamed political re-education' camps - in China, is unacceptable. We must hold the perpetrators of these gross human rights violations accountable. said Congressman Yoho. Among other provisions, the bill also calls for Global Magnitsky sanctions on those who orchestrate political re-education camps, establishes new human rights disclosure requirements for sensitive exports to China, and instructs American diplomats to protest … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://speier.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-speier-statement-trump-shutdown-0 Rep Speier Statement on Trump Shutdown 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Jackie Speier S001175 speier.house.gov     legacy Washington, DC Congresswoman Jackie Speier (CA-14) issued the following statement in response to President Trump's shutdown of the federal government. "This is a Trump Shutdown and a political stunt designed to appeal to the President's extreme base, creating convenient confusion and chaos given his impending legal calamities. The President has yet to spend the $1.3 billion Congress has already approved for border security, and instead is obsessed with wasting $5.7 billion for an ineffective border wall that would be a waste of taxpayer dollars. Trump created this crisis and he owns this shutdown, which will hit the Justice Department and Homeland Security the hardest. So much for those border security concerns. In the waning days of this year and this Congress, this is my message to Republican leaders and to the President: Governing in a democracy requires negotiation and a willingness to put your country above yourself. The President tweets and rants often based on what the last person has whispered in his ear or a talking head has proclaimed on a cable TV show. But that does not absolve him of his duty to lead. The Senate passed a bipartisan spending bill that Leader Pelosi was stopped from introducing in the House. Many of my Republican colleagues sought the President's Twitter advice before casting their vote on the House floor and ran cowering when his mood and opinions shifted. That isn't how democracy works, this isn't how to govern or lead a great nation. For the benefit of our country, we must put to rest the notion that this border wall boondoggle is anything but a Trump reality TV show rerun. And we must immediately fund and reopen the government. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://takano.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-takano-statement-on-third-trump-shutdown Rep. Takano Statement on Third Trump Shutdown 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Mark Takano T000472 takano.house.gov takano https://takano.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.) released this statement after Congressional Republicans and President Trump caused a third government shutdown this year: “President Trump, who lauds himself as a master negotiator, just led our government into the third government shutdown in one year – all because he is demanding billions of dollars in funding for a wall that a majority of Americans do not support. “As the President continues to hold our government hostage over funding for his useless, wasteful, racist wall, hundreds of thousands of federal employees will be forced to work without pay during the holiday season. This is truly a nightmare before Christmas that President Trump has orchestrated to appease his own ego and pretend to deliver on a xenophobic campaign promise. “Republicans control the House, the Senate, and the White House, but as these past two years have shown us, they clearly do not know how to govern. I am ready to vote for a clean funding bill that will keep our government open and ensure that federal workers are paid. It’s time for my Republican colleagues to stop letting President Trump strong-arm them into making radical decisions that harm our nation and that a majority of Americans unequivocally oppose.” ### Press Contact Dayanara Ramirez (202) 225-2305 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://torres.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/torres-introduces-bill-increase-transparency-and-ensure-safety-children Torres Introduces Bill to Increase Transparency and Ensure Safety of Children in CBP and ICE Custody 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Norma J. Torres T000474 torres.house.gov torres https://torres.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper The bill follows the recent deaths of 7-year-old Jakelin Caal, who died while in U.S. Customs and Border Protection custody, and toddler Mariee Juarez, who died shortly after being released from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody WASHINGTON, DC — Today, U.S. Representative Norma J. Torres (D-CA) introduced the Border Security and Child Safety Act to require the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct a review of all policies and procedures impacting the safety and health of children in U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody. The bill would also require the DHS Secretary to develop a strategy to implement policies that will ensure the safety of children in CBP and ICE custody, and to prioritize the hiring of medical personnel to provide prompt and adequate medical care to all children in DHS custody. "Jakelin Caal's tragedy was not an isolated incident. From family separations, to the deaths of immigrant children in their care, to the turning away of asylum seekers at our border, there is a pattern of abuse and cruelty against immigrant families by this administration," said Torres. "My bill would help break this pattern, and ensure that the proper policies and procedures are in place to safeguard the health and well-being of children in CBP and ICE custody." The legislation is cosponsored by Representatives Jim McGovern (D-MA) and Juan Vargas (D-CA). Earlier this week, Torres and members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus traveled to New Mexico to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of Jakelin Caal. Additionally, Torres and Representative Ted W. Lieu (D-CA) led a group of fifty-four members of Congress in a letter urging DHS to end the administration's policy of deterring migrants from applying for asylum at U.S. ports of entry. The text of the bill may be viewed HERE. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://waters.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-waters-applauds-passage-bold-infrastructure-alzheimers-act Rep. Waters Applauds the Passage of the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer's Act 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Maxine Waters W000187 waters.house.gov waters https://waters.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON -- Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43), the Co-Chair of the bipartisan, bicameral Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer's Disease, applauded the passage of S. 2076, the Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer's Act. The bill passed the House of Representatives on December 19th by an overwhelming vote of 361 to 3, after passing the Senate by a voice vote on December 12th, and is expected to be signed into law. "I am delighted that Congress passed the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer's Act. We introduced this innovative bill to promote early detection and diagnosis, support caregivers, and reduce health disparities related to the care and treatment of Alzheimer's patients. The passage of this bill marks a historic victory in the fight against Alzheimer's. I will continue to advocate for this and other legislative efforts that improve the lives of the more than 5 million Americans who are living with this devastating disease," said Congresswoman Maxine Waters. As a congressional leader of Alzheimer's disease response efforts, Congresswoman Maxine Waters joined together with her colleagues, Reps. Brett Guthrie (R-KY-2), Paul Tonko (D-NY-20), and Christopher H. Smith (R-NJ-4), to introduce the House version of the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer's Act (H.R. 4256), while the Senate version (S. 2076) was introduced by Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME). The bill establishes Alzheimer's Centers of Excellence around the country to expand and promote innovative and effective Alzheimer's interventions, which will support early detection, reduce the risk of hospitalizations and cognitive decline, support caregivers, and reduce health disparities. The bill is a priority of Alzheimer's advocates in the 115th Congress. "We are thankful to Rep. Waters for her continued, steadfast work to address Alzheimer's for millions of Californians and other Americans," said Alzheimer's Association Chief Public Policy Officer, Robert Egge. "When signed into law, the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer's Act wi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://waters.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-waters-statement-passage-first-step-act Rep. Waters Statement on the Passage of the First Step Act 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Maxine Waters W000187 waters.house.gov waters https://waters.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Applauds Progress of Efforts to End Mandatory Minimum Sentencing WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) issued a statement on the First Step Act of 2018, which passed both the House and the Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support and is now the law of the land. "I applaud the overwhelmingly bipartisan support for, and passage of, the First Step Act by the U.S. Congress. As a lifelong civil rights advocate and a leader in the fight for criminal justice reform, I believe that this bill is one step in a journey of many miles to enacting the comprehensive reforms our country, communities, and citizens – particularly people of color -- so desperately need and deserve. "Earlier this year, I shared the concerns of almost every criminal justice organization in the country regarding the First Step Act: the bill, as originally drafted, did next to nothing to reform our criminal justice system's draconian sentencing practices and processes. While I applaud my colleagues' efforts to amend the bill, there are still provisions within this law that are deeply troubling to me. The First Step Act only applies to the federal system, which imprisons only a small fraction—about 180,000—of the 2.1 million people currently incarcerated in the United States. The bill also fails to end life without parole and other extreme sentences for children in the federal criminal justice system – a step that a majority of states, including California, have already taken. The bill also includes a ‘risk assessment system' tool that may rely on algorithms to determine which inmates are eligible for ‘earned time credits' that can be used for early release. I am concerned that such a tool and algorithm, if created without a strong understanding of the racial inequities in our criminal justice system, could have a discriminatory effect on people of color. "However, I am pleased that the amended bill includes a wide range of sentencing reforms that are much needed if we are ever to fix our broken criminal justice system. The new version… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.feinstein.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3303C156-58CB-482C-BEF5-AD1129808729 Feinstein: President Trumps Last-Minute Demands Will Force Government Shutdown 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Dianne Feinstein F000062 www.feinstein.senate.gov     legacy WashingtonSenator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today issued the following statement on President Trump's potential government shutdown: President Trump and congressional leaders agreed on a short-term funding bill to keep the government open through February, and the Senate voted unanimously to approve that bill on Wednesday. We expect the president to honor his agreement. Instead, he's now holding major portions of the government hostage unless we meet his last-minute demand for $5 billion for a border wall. Why is this funding necessary? The president still hasn't spent the $1.3 billion we approved last year, only requested $1.6 billion in his budget this year and has consistently bragged that our borders are now secure under his watch. Heading into Christmas, the president's shutdown would deny hundreds of thousands of federal workers their paychecks and create unnecessary chaos as millions of Americans worry when their government will reopen. President Trump boasted last week that he would be solely responsible if the government shutdown. Well, that's one promise it appears he'll keep. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.feinstein.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=68D8D50C-DD59-453C-B53B-CDA00ABB5A28 Feinstein Requests Answers from Barr, Rosenstein on Barr Memo Against Mueller Investigation 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Dianne Feinstein F000062 www.feinstein.senate.gov     legacy WashingtonSenator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today requested that William Barr and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein answer key questions about Barr's 19-page memorandum against Special Counsel Mueller's investigation. The letter to Barr is available here and the letter to Rosenstein is available here. Full text of the letter to Barr follows: December 21, 2018 William P. Barr Kirkland & Ellis LLP 655 15th Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20005 Dear Mr. Barr: Before the hearing on your nomination to be Attorney General, as the Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I am writing to request additional information about a June 8, 2018, memorandum that you wrote to Department of Justice officials regarding Special Robert Counsel Mueller's obstruction of justice investigation. I read your memorandum with great surprise. In my twenty-five years reviewing nominations as a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I have never seen a nominee write such an in-depth legal memorandum for no reason. Your memorandum is not an informal opinion piece or casual commentary; rather, it is a lengthy, detailed legal argument with pointed conclusions. Your decision to write this memorandum raises several questions, and I ask that you respond in writing no later than December 27, 2018: Did anyone request that you write the memorandum? If so, who and why? If the memorandum was not requested, why did you write it? News repm1s indicate that you also shared the memorandum with the President's personal lawyers. Is that accurate? Who received a copy of the memo? Did you write the memorandum yourself or were others involved? If so, who? Have you spoken to President Trump, anyone associated with the White House, or the President's legal team about the memorandum or its contents? If so, with whom did you speak and why? Have you spoken with anyone at the Department of Justice about the memorandum or its contents? Was there any follow up from anyone regarding your memorandum? I look forward to hearing f… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.feinstein.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8105C074-03D6-4070-85F2-C7A0A7C8A72C Feinstein: Secretary Mattis Sudden Resignation is Alarming 2018-12-21 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Dianne Feinstein F000062 www.feinstein.senate.gov     legacy WashingtonSenator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today issued the following statement on the resignation of Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis I'm alarmed by Secretary Mattis' sudden resignation. His letter makes clear the president's rash decision to withdraw troops from Syria and reduce our forces in Afghanistan endangers our allies and threatens our own national security. Secretary Mattis is a respected leader with a clear-eyed understanding of international affairs. His counsel and steady hand will be sorely missed at a time when the president's decision making is becoming increasingly erratic. I thank Secretary Mattis for his lifetime of service to our country, both as a military officer and as the secretary of defense. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roybal-allard.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398532 Rep. Roybal-Allard Floor Speech Opposing Funds for a Border Wall in the Continuing Resolution 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Lucille Roybal-Allard R000486 roybal-allard.house.gov     legacy On Thursday, Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40), Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, delivered the following remarks in the House of Representatives as Republicans attempted to force $5.7 billion for a border wall into the Continuing Resolution to extend government funding through February 8, 2019:Mr. Speaker, Democrats understand the critical responsibility we have: to keep our government funded and serve the needs of the American people. But, House Republicans are driving our nation to the brink of another disastrous government shutdown. Republicans, who control the House, the Senate and the White House, have the responsibility and the power to keep our government open. Yet, at a time of great economic uncertainty, and right in the middle of the holiday season, Republicans are refusing to stand up to the president, who has made it clear he'd be proud to shut down the government, if he cannot force American taxpayers to spend billions of dollars on an immoral, ineffective and expensive wall. The fact is that there are serious homeland security vulnerabilities that will not be addressed if the president is allowed to squander $5.7 billion on a border wall. This includes not being able to hire more law enforcement agents to focus on opioid, gang, trade, and child exploitation investigations. No funding to recapitalize the Coast Guard's air and sea fleets, including the procurement of our first heavy icebreaker since the 1970s. As the Arctic ice recedes, Russia, China and other countries are winning the race to lay claim to the vast resources of that region, where at times there is no U.S. presence. There will be no funding to hire additional customs officers to intercept illicit drugs and other contraband, almost all of which comes into our country through the ports of entry. And, Mr. Chairman there will no increased funding for first responder grants to help states and localities better prepare and respond to terrorism and disasters of every kind. All of these fu… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://bass.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bass-grills-sec-nielsen-family-separation-practices Bass Grills Sec. Nielsen On Family Separation Practices 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Karen Bass B001270 bass.house.gov     legacy Los Angeles, CA Office 4929 Wilshire Blvd Suite 650 Los Angeles,CA 90010 Phone: (323) 965-1422 Fax: (323) 965-1113 Washington, DC Office 2059 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-7084 Fax: (202) 225-2422 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://bass.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-bass-urges-passage-first-step-act Rep. Bass Urges Passage Of FIRST STEP Act 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Karen Bass B001270 bass.house.gov     legacy Transcript: Rep. Bass: I rise in support of the FIRST STEP Act. For 40 years, our failure to adequately reform our criminal justice system has resulted in punitive mandatory minimum sentences and mass incarceration. African Americans, Latino, and Native Americans have born the brunt of this legacy. Between 1980 and 2014, there was a 700% increase in the number of women in custody. This was nearly twice the rate of male imprisonment. Woman are often held for nonviolent, low-level drug offenses. Unfortunately, they are entering a male-centered penal system not defined to meet their physical or mental health needs. What is needed is criminal justice reform that understands that women in the system have unique needs. This is the first step toward addressing the needs of women. Improving the health outcomes of pregnant women in custody is in the first step act. My language would restrict the use of restraints on pregnant women, which increases the risk of complications during childbirth. Some of the stories shared by women who were restrained by pregnancy are horrific: One woman was shackled in labor and dislocated her hip. She experienced stomach muscle tears and an umbilical hernia. Another woman tripped over her shackles, fell to the ground, and miscarried at 20 weeks. The idea that a woman needs to be shackled in labor and delivery as though she is going to escape while delivering a child is ridiculous, brutal, and a human rights abuse. One mother recounted being shackled after having an emergency caesarean section. She stated: with the weight of the shackles, it felt like they were ripping over my c-section. Mr. Speaker, do we have no shame? This egregious abuse of human rights in federal prisons must end. I hope Congress continues to address this issue in the 116th Congress. We will continue to move the needle forward by developing comprehensive criminal justice reform that specifically looks at the needs of women in the system. I want to thank the members … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://chu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/after-returning-border-chu-and-merkley-introduce-legislation-shut-down After Returning from Border, Chu and Merkley Introduce Legislation to Shut Down Tornillo Child Prison 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Judy Chu C001080 chu.house.gov     legacy Washington, DC Following a Congressional trip to the southern border this weekend where they saw the child prison in Tornillo, Texas, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27) and Sen. Jeff Merkley (OR) have introduced the Shut Down Child Prison Camps Act. This bill prohibits the Secretary of Health and Human Services from maintaining or operating any temporary emergency shelter, including the shelters in Tornillo, Texas and in Homestead, Florida. A temporary emergency shelter is defined as any unlicensed care provider facility that provides temporary emergency shelter and services for unaccompanied alien children when licensed facilities are near or at capacity. Being unlicensed means the facility at Tornillo has not been certified by state authorities responsible for regulating facilities that house children. Nor does the facility have to comply with the Flores Settlement, which requires acting in the best interest of the child. Rep. Chu and Sen. Merkley issued the following statements: What I saw and learned in Tornillo was shocking and outrageous. Thousands of children who fled horrors and endured a difficult journey are being housed in a tent city in the desert, watched over by staff who have not had to go through a background check, and forbidden from even walking from tent to tent without adult supervision. This makes children vulnerable to abuse, poses serious developmental challenges, and risks retraumatizing them, both of which will have long-term consequences, said Chu. Worst of all, this is a choice that was made by this administration. Unaccompanied children have been and can be released to loved ones or family who will look after their safety and well-being. Instead, Trump is fomenting xenophobia and keeping them in the desert in the hands of people not trained to care for children. Children should not have to suffer a lifetime of damage because of a political choice Donald Trump is making. Simply put, this facility and the one in Homestead, Florida should not exist and must be shut down immediately. It was absolutely … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://costa.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congress-passes-legislation-critical-valley-survivors-child-abuse Congress Passes Legislation Critical for Valley Survivors of Child Abuse 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Jim Costa C001059 costa.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. The U.S. House of Representatives updated and reauthorized funding for programs in the Victims of Child Abuse Act (VOCAA) today, including Children's Advocacy Centers and support organizations. These programs are vital for providing Valley survivors of child abuse the services and justice they need to heal and live healthy, productive, and full lives. This is an important step to support some of the most vulnerable in our communities: victims of child abuse, said Valley Congressman Jim Costa (CA-16), lead Democrat on the House's version of the bill and co-founder and co-chair of the Congressional Victims' Rights Caucus. Addressing these cases can be very difficult, but we know that Children's Advocacy Centers are effective at bringing together community and government resources to support victims. We have seen the power of these Centers and this approach in the Valley, across California, and throughout the country. Our goal with this legislation is to ensure that all of our children especially victims of these horrendous crimes have the support they need to grow up healthy and safe and pursue their fullest potential. There are currently five Children's Advocacy Centers (CACs) located in Fresno, Merced, and Madera counties providing services for thousands of children in the Central Valley. For example, VOCAA funds support the Family Healing Center in Fresno, which provides trauma-informed forensic interviews and therapy to 300 children every year. The Valley Children's Hospital clinic sees another 1000 cases per year. To better address the unmet need, this reauthorization includes resources to create, train, and support new CACs in underserved areas. Children's Advocacy Centers of California (CACC) fully supports the reauthorization of the Victims of Child Abuse Act, said Erin Harper, Executive Director of CACC. With over 58 counties in California, we have seen the incredible impact Children's Advocacy Centers have in helping abused children heal from abuse, and helping communities hold offende… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://gomez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=432 Rep. Jimmy Gomez, Incoming Future Forum Leadership Call for Automatic Voter Registration Provision in H.R. 1 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Jimmy Gomez G000585 gomez.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today, incoming leaders of the Future Forum sent a letter to House Speaker-Designate Nancy Pelosi and Democratic Leader-Designate Steny Hoyer calling for the inclusion of a provision expanding automatic voter registration (AVR) in H.R. 1 democracy reform legislation that is set to be a top priority in the 116th Congress.In the letter, Vice-Chair Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), along with Chair Stephanie Murphy (FL-07), Chair Emeritus Eric Swalwell (CA-15), and Vice-Chairs Antonio Delgado (NY-19) and Abby Finkenauer (IA-01), said automatic voter registration can empower young voters and increase voter participation rates among all age groups. In the aftermath of events like the Parkland shooting and the #MeToo movement, the millennial and post-millennial generations mobilized to vote in record numbers, wrote the incoming Future Forum leaders. Nevertheless, young voters still had the lowest turnout rate of any age group in 2018, just as they have in every previous national election. Automatic voter registration is an innovative solution that can increase voter participation rates among all age groups, especially among young people. AVR is a simple, commonsense reform to our voter registration process that could meaningfully increase participation in our elections, stated the letter. On behalf of Future Forum, we thank you for your leadership on this critical issue and appreciate your continued support of our mission to bridge the divide between young Americans and their government. In November, Democratic leaders announced H.R. 1, a legislative package of democracy reforms that will be prioritized for passage in the coming Congress. The sweeping legislation is slated to include provisions that improve voter access to the polls, ensure the security of our elections, and promote integrity in our democratic process. The full text of the letter is below. **** December 20, 2018 Dear Speaker-Designate Pelosi and Democratic Leader-Designate Hoyer: As the inco… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://juliabrownley.house.gov/brownley-statement-on-santa-susana-field-laboratory/ Brownley Statement on Santa Susana Field Laboratory 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Julia Brownley B001285 juliabrownley.house.gov juliabrownley https://juliabrownley.house.gov/category/press-releases/ scraper Washington, DC — In response to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) for the clean-up of the Santa Susana Field Laboratory (SSFL), Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) issued the following statement: “I am deeply disappointed with the Department of Energy’s proposed clean-up decision, which breaks the department’s prior commitments under the Administrative Orders on Consent (AOCs). Clean-up of the Santa Susana Field Laboratory is a high public health and safety priority, and my involvement with the clean-up goes back to my time in the California Assembly as a principal co-author of SB990, state legislation to require the full clean-up. I urge the California Department of Toxic Substances Control to ensure that the AOCs are upheld.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://khanna.house.gov/media/press-releases/release-rep-khanna-attends-white-house-signing-ceremony-his-second-bill RELEASE: Rep. Khanna attends White House signing ceremony for his second bill becoming law 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Ro Khanna K000389 khanna.house.gov khanna https://khanna.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Khanna attended the signing ceremony for his second bill signed into law, H.R. 5759 – The 21st Century Integrated Digital Experience (IDEA) Act, at 4:15pm ET at the White House. "The 21st Century IDEA will modernize the technology of government agencies. It's time our government agencies adopt the innovative technologies of the 21st Century," Rep. Khanna said. "I want to thank President Trump for signing the bill into law, Sen. Portman and Rep. Ratcliffe for their partnership, as well as Matt Lira from the White House's Office of American Innovation, and Geo Saba of my staff for their efforts to pass this bill for the American public." The bill, which digitizes and modernizes government services, is now the law of the land. The 21st Century IDEA, cosponsored by Rep. John Ratcliffe (R-TX) and Sen. Rob Portman (R-OH), requires federal agencies to modernize their websites and services by closing the tech gap between government and the private sector. The bill promotes the option for digital forms, the use of e-signatures, improved security standards and greater access to government websites for people with disabilities. The freshman Democrat's first major legislative achievement benefits veterans. The Veteran Apprenticeship and Labor Opportunity Reform (VALOR) Act was signed into law by the President in November of 2017. Reps. Jodey Arrington (R-TX), Beto O'Rourke (D-TX) and Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) were the leading cosponsors of this bill making it easier for employers to offer apprenticeships to veterans. ### About the Office 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://lieu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/lieu-torres-lead-54-members-urging-dhs-end-policy-deterring-asylum LIEU, TORRES LEAD 54 MEMBERS IN URGING DHS TO END POLICY OF DETERRING ASYLUM SEEKERS AT U.S. PORTS OF ENTRY 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Ted Lieu L000582 lieu.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representatives Norma J. Torres (D-CA) and Ted W. Lieu (D-CA) have led a group of fifty-four members of Congress in a letter urging U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen to immediately end the policy of deterring migrants from applying for asylum at U.S. ports of entry. The letter comes after reports that two Honduran children were killed in Tijuana over the weekend, highlighting the dangers facing the growing numbers of Central Americans are stranded in Mexican border towns. The Department's expanded practice of metering has limited the number of asylum seekers who can present their claims at ports of entry, in addition to transferring resources away from the asylum process. This manufactured crisis at the border may lead to even more unnecessary deaths in the weeks and months to come as asylum seekers attempt to cross between ports of entry. In the letter, the federal lawmakers also call on Customs and Border Protection to explain future plans to facilitate access to asylum at ports of entry. Testimonies from asylum seekers and family unit apprehension statistics from 2018 strongly suggest that the bottleneck at ports of entry are leading to a growing number of asylum seekers attempting to cross between ports of entry. If this policy did not contribute to the death of Jakelin Caal, it will lead to other deaths of innocent children. Furthermore, metering puts our national security at risk by forcing Border Patrol to use limited resources to apprehend asylum seekers, rather than focusing on criminals or terrorists who represent a real security risk to the United States, the federal lawmakers wrote. To ensure compliance with U.S. law, prevent further deaths, and secure our borders, CBP must explain how it plans to facilitate access to asylum at ports of entry. If additional resources are required to comply with the law, CBP must come before Congress with a detailed request.Continuing with the status quo is simply unacceptable. In addition to Torres and Lieu, … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lieu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-lieu-s-hack-dhs-bill-passes-congress-heads-president-s-desk REP LIEUS HACK DHS BILL PASSES CONGRESS, HEADS TO PRESIDENTS DESK 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Ted Lieu L000582 lieu.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) issued the following statement after the Senate passed H.R. 7327, a bill package that includes the Hack the Department of Homeland Security Act. The bill would establish a bug bounty pilot program modeled off of similar programs at the Department of Defense and major tech companies. The program will strengthen cyber defenses at DHS by utilizing white-hat or ethical hackers to help identify unique and undiscovered vulnerabilities in the DHS networks and data systems. Reps. Lieu and Scott Taylor (R-VA) introduced the House version, which passed in September. The bill will now travel to the President's desk to be signed into law. As a computer science major, I am thrilled the Senate has passed their version of the Hack DHS Act that I introduced with Rep. Taylor in 2017. By sending this bill to the President's desk, Congress is signaling that it takes our government's cybersecurity seriously. Bug bounty programs have proven to be critical to enhancing cybersecurity protections in the private sector and at the Pentagon. Expanding this program to DHS will fortify our nation's defenses against cyber security attacks. In the 21st Century, we need to utilize all the tools available to fight cyber threats. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/pelosi-floor-remarks-offering-privileged-resolution-to-keep-government-open Pelosi Floor Remarks Offering Privileged Resolution to Keep Government Open 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Nancy Pelosi P000197 pelosi.house.gov     legacy Contact: Ashley Etienne/Henry Connelly, 202-226-7616 Washington, D.C Speaker-designate Nancy Pelosi offered a privileged resolution on the Floor of the House of Representatives to keep government open. The resolution was tabled by a 187-170 vote. Below are the Speaker-designate's remarks: Speaker-designate Pelosi. Mr. Speaker, the House and Senate, Democrats and Republicans of the Appropriations Committee worked hard and long to come up with bipartisan legislation to meet the needs of the American people. Right now we're in the midst of Congress delaying, the market's down almost 500 points for this and other reasons. This is not the time for us to shut down government. We have a product developed in a bipartisan way for the reasons described by the Clerk who read it, and it is privileged because of the time of the year, because of the extent of the concern that the American people have, and because of the harm that will be done to them if government shuts down. It would be totally irresponsible and that's why I consider it a privilege to rise to say, let's keep government open by passing this bipartisan legislation first introduced by Congresswoman [Nita] Lowey, our distinguished Democratic leader on the Appropriations Committee. [Applause] Speaker Pro Tempore. The Chair is prepared to rule. The text presented proposes legislation to continue funding for certain elements of the U.S. Government. The proposed text by seeking the proposed legislation does not qualify as a question of the privileges of the House. For what purpose does the gentlelady from California seek recognition? Speaker-designate Pelosi. Mr. Speaker, I appeal the ruling of the Chair. Speaker Pro Tempore. For what purpose does the gentlelady appeal the decision of the chair to stand as the judgment of the Chair. For what purpose does the gentleman from California rise? Majority Leader McCarthy. Mr. Speaker, I have a motion at the desk. Speaker Pro Tempore. The clerk will report the motion. Clerk. Mr. McCarthy of California moves to lay the appea… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/pelosi-remarks-at-media-stakeout-ahead-of-gop-vote-for-trump-shutdown Pelosi Remarks at Media Stakeout Ahead of GOP Vote for Trump Shutdown 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Nancy Pelosi P000197 pelosi.house.gov     legacy Contact: Ashley Etienne/Henry Connelly, 202-226-7616 Washington, D.C Speaker-designate Nancy Pelosi joined Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer ahead of House Republicans' planned vote to have a Trump Shutdown of the federal government. Below are the Speaker-designate's remarks: Speaker-designate Pelosi. Good evening. For a number of weeks now, House and Senate Democrats and Republicans have worked together to put together an appropriations bill to meet the needs of the American people and now to keep government open. Somehow or other, and I don't know what the answer to the question is, the President of the United States prefers to shut government down and will resist any opportunity to keep government open. Again, we are completely ready, as we have been for a while, with bipartisan, bicameral legislation to pass six appropriations bill and have a continuing resolution for the seventh bill if we cannot come to terms on that. We've offered that to the President. We've with also offered him seven one continuing resolution with seven bills in it. Yesterday the United States Senate passed legislation overwhelmingly, and I'll yield to the distinguished Leader in the Senate to talk about that. The President is doing everything that he can to shut the government down. We have to ask the question, why does he not believe in governance? Does he not care about the American people? Doesn't he know that the economy is uncertain? Hasn't he followed the stock market that he likes to brag about sometimes? There is something wrong with this picture. Especially in the holiday season, and so if they make the bill bad enough, if they're able to get maybe enough votes on the House side for a shameful bill that is unworthy of this House of Representatives and certainly of the American people, but I yield to the distinguished Leader from the Senate. Senator Schumer. Well, thank you, Leader Pelosi. Now, today's events have made one thing clear, President Trump is plunging the country into chaos. The… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/pelosi-statement-on-house-passage-of-criminal-justice-reform-bill Pelosi Statement on House Passage of Criminal Justice Reform Bill 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Nancy Pelosi P000197 pelosi.house.gov     legacy Contact: Ashley Etienne/Henry Connelly, 202-226-7616 Washington, D.C. Speaker-designate Nancy Pelosi issued this statement after the House passed a bipartisan criminal justice reform bill: The bipartisan First Step Act will bring hope, healing and renewal to thousands of lives. Members of Congress came together to write a bill that reduces the impact of draconian mandatory minimums, and makes progress to address discriminatory sentencing laws. Its positive prison reforms for pregnant prisoners, juvenile prisoners, prisoners with substance abuse disorders and other low-risk inmates respect the spark of divinity within us all that makes us all worthy of respect. On behalf of House Democrats, I am grateful to Members on both sides of the aisle for their tireless, persistent work to pass this much-needed bill. This legislation is a meaningful start, and House Democrats will continue to seek additional criminal justice reforms. # # # 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/pelosi-statement-on-trump-administration-attack-on-hungry-americans Pelosi Statement on Trump Administration Attack on Hungry Americans 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Nancy Pelosi P000197 pelosi.house.gov     legacy Contact: Ashley Etienne/Henry Connelly, 202-226-7616 Washington, D.C. Speaker-designate Nancy Pelosi issued this statement after the Trump Administration announced a proposed rule that could take food assistance away from hundreds of thousands of hungry Americans: President Trump's cruel action this morning seeks to buck the bipartisan will of the Congress in the Farm Bill, which overwhelmingly rejected these callous efforts to take food from the neediest Americans. People who rely on food stamps are already working hard. Right before the holidays, President Trump is attacking the most vulnerable people in the country, plain and simple. When Democrats take the gavel, we will ensure that Secretary Perdue and the Trump Administration implement the Farm Bill as Congress intended. We will put an end to the bitter Republican attacks on working Americans, and will deliver a strong, positive and forward-looking agenda For The People: lower health costs, increase paychecks by rebuilding America and clean up corruption to make Washington work for all. # # # 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/transcript-of-pelosi-weekly-press-conference-today-25 Transcript of Pelosi Weekly Press Conference Today 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Nancy Pelosi P000197 pelosi.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Speaker-designate Nancy Pelosi held her weekly press conference today in the Capitol Visitor Center. Below are the Speaker-designate's remarks: Speaker-designate Pelosi. I'm watching the House, as I'm sure you are as well, postponing business until later. Donald's right. I agree with him.' Putin. Donald's right. I agree with him.' Putin. Imagine. That is the comment of Vladimir Putin on the actions taken by the President of the United States in relationship to Syria. An action that was taken without the benefit of the thinking of our national security establishment and our intelligence community included in that. A decision made in a cavalier fashion in terms of our allies in the fight against terrorism. A decision that is dangerous. And a decision that is a Christmas present to Vladimir Putin, to give him license in Syria. It comes at the expense of the Kurds, who are fighting with us there against terrorism, and with several very serious questions. The good news is, and the bad news is, that perhaps the President will forget about it by the weekend or maybe he won't. But whatever it is, it's frivolous, unworthy of our men and women in uniform. At the same time, the Administration is now deciding they will make an assault on poor people in America. It's one of their regular themes. It's our understanding that they'll shortly, by executive order, undo the bipartisan agreement that was reached, House and Senate, in the Farm Bill in terms of nutrition for people in America. They will undo that. Why? Why, at Christmas, would you take food out of the mouths of the American people? At the same time, as you see, the GOP lawsuit on the Affordable Care Act had its day in court. It's a day in court that they may rue, because certainly we will fight the decision of that court. But what's interesting about it is, since that decision the number of enrollments went up. Maybe 10 days ago we thought that there would be a drastic reduction in enrollment in this week. Four million, since… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://ruiz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ruiz-feinstein-secure-millions-potential-new-funding-salton-sea Ruiz, Feinstein Secure Millions in Potential New Funding for Salton Sea 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Raul Ruiz R000599 ruiz.house.gov ruiz https://ruiz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, President Trump signed into law H.R. 2, the Agriculture and Nutrition Act, otherwise known as the 2018 Farm Bill, which changed critical agricultural conservation programs to make the Salton Sea eligible for millions in new federal funding. The changes were championed by Rep. Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-36), Sen. Dianne Feinstein, and Sen. Kamala Harris who wrote to Farm Bill negotiators in support of the changes earlier this year. For the first time, the Salton Sea now has access to guaranteed federal funding that is intended to help rectify environmental and public health issues caused by agricultural activity. H.R. 2, the Agriculture and Nutrition Act, otherwise known as the 2018 Farm Bill, passed the Senate on December 11 by a 87-13 vote. It passed the House the next day on December 12 369-47. Combined with a recent Imperial Irrigation District vote to make additional Colorado River water conservation conditional on federal matching of State funding at the Sea, these developments have created a viable pathway for significant federal involvement at the Sea. "We're making progress because we're working together and tackling this issue from multiple angles at the same time -- we simply can't afford to wait," said Dr. Ruiz. "This new funding has the potential to be a game-changer for mitigation activities at the Sea by more than doubling our current resources. I am proud to have worked with Senator Feinstein and other California Members of Congress to achieve this critical outcome for the Sea." "While the Farm Bill required bipartisan effort from numerous members in Congress, we are especially appreciative of Senator Feinstein and Representative Ruiz for championing the Salton Sea," said Salton Sea Authority Executive Director Phil Rosentrater. "The Farm Bill is just one example of their steadfast work to protect the public health, economic security and environmental quality of the Imperial and Coachella valleys." # # # 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://scottpeters.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-peters-trump-administration-breaking-promises-to-veterans Rep. Peters: Trump Administration Breaking Promises to Veterans 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Scott Peters P000608 scottpeters.house.gov     legacy Today, U.S. Congressman Scott Peters (CA-52) demanded answers from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) on why nearly $5 million budgeted for suicide prevention outreach was left unspent in Fiscal Year 2018, according to a new Government Accountability Office report. The VA left millions of dollars on the table for suicide prevention outreach when 20 veterans die by suicide every day. How many lives might have been saved had they done what they were supposed to do with this money Congress provided? President Trump has touted his administration's commitment to reducing veteran suicide. He must hold his administration accountable for this callous dismissal of their sacred duty to care for our veterans. As a member of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, I call on the president and his administration to answer for the irresponsible findings detailed in this report, said Rep. Peters. Rep. Peters called for more outreach and resources to prevent veteran suicide in a Veterans' Affairs Committee meeting earlier this year, given the connection between veterans experiencing homelessness and suicide. Rep. Peters voted to provide the VA $206 million for suicide prevention outreach in Fiscal Year 2019. The VA recently started a suicide prevention program for veterans who have less-than-honorable discharges. However, a report from KPBS earlier this fall found the program had low enrollment nationally. Some San Diego veteran service organizations blame the program's lack of exposure and promotion as a reason for low participation. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://torres.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/torres-lieu-lead-54-members-congress-urging-dhs-secretary-nielsen-end Torres, Lieu Lead 54 Members of Congress in Urging DHS Secretary Nielsen to End Policy of Deterring Asylum Seekers at U.S. Ports of Entry 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Norma J. Torres T000474 torres.house.gov torres https://torres.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Today's announcement that asylum seekers would be forced to wait in Mexico for the duration of their U.S. immigration proceedings raises additional concerns about the safety of migrants in Mexican border towns The letter follows the tragic death of seven-year-old Jakelin Caal in Customs and Border Protection custody and reports of two Honduran children who were killed in Tijuana as they waited to present their asylum claims WASHINGTON, DC — Today, U.S. Representatives Norma J. Torres (D-CA) and Ted W. Lieu (D-CA) have led a group of fifty-four members of Congress in a letter urging U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen to immediately end the policy of deterring migrants from applying for asylum at U.S. ports of entry. The letter comes after reports that two Honduran children were killed in Tijuana over the weekend, highlighting the dangers facing the growing numbers of Central Americans are stranded in Mexican border towns. The Department's expanded practice of "metering" has limited the number of asylum seekers who can present their claims at ports of entry, in addition to transferring resources away from the asylum process. This manufactured crisis at the border may lead to even more unnecessary deaths in the weeks and months to come as asylum seekers attempt to cross between ports of entry. In the letter, the federal lawmakers also call on Customs and Border Protection to explain future plans to facilitate access to asylum at ports of entry. "Testimonies from asylum seekers and family unit apprehension statistics from 2018 strongly suggest that the bottleneck at ports of entry are leading to a growing number of asylum seekers attempting to cross between ports of entry. If this policy did not contribute to the death of Jakelin Caal, it will lead to other deaths of innocent children. Furthermore, metering puts our national security at risk by forcing Border Patrol to use limited resources to apprehend asylum seekers, rather than focusing on criminals or terrorists who represent… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.feinstein.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8E13A199-EE3C-4B5C-BB50-43769D9AB0E4 Feinstein Statement on Barr Memo 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Dianne Feinstein F000062 www.feinstein.senate.gov     legacy WashingtonSenator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today issued the following statement on William Barr's memo against the Mueller investigation: Mr. Barr's memo to Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, which we received late last night, is very troubling. The drafting of this memo was not undertaken lightly. The memo presents a thoroughly crafted legal argument against investigating the president, with pointed conclusions that the president is above the law. The president is not above the law. This document was not written years agoit was written six months ago. We need answers as to why Barr proactively drafted this memo and then shared it with the deputy attorney general and President Trump's lawyers. There's no reason for a lawyer in private practice to do this unless he was attempting to curry favor with President Trump and convey that he would protect the president. The Justice Department has been under relentless attack by this president and it needs a leader who is independent and able to defend the rule of law. The attorney general is charged with protecting the people, not the president. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.feinstein.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=AFE2EB2C-62A2-4839-AB2D-51DEBB60A911 Senators Urge Trump Administration to Stop Pushing Health Plans That Weaken Pre-Existing Condition Protections 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Dianne Feinstein F000062 www.feinstein.senate.gov     legacy Washington Today Sens. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Mark R. Warner (D-Va.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) along with a group of their Senate colleagues urged the Trump Administration to withdraw recent changes that makes it easier for states to promote junk plans. These health care plans typically lack protections for people with pre-existing conditions and would increase costs for millions of Americans. Under the Administration's new guidance, states can use federal subsidies to pay for these subpar plans by utilizing a section of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) intended to give states additional flexibility to implement targeted improvements that expand coverage, reduce costs and provide more comprehensive benefits. The Senators argue that the Administration is improperly using Section 1332 to allow states to do the exact opposite. We have serious concerns they will increase health care costs for millions of consumers while weakening protections for individuals with pre-existing conditions. In light of substantive concerns that we have with the impact on patients, and procedural concerns that we have with the manner in which these significant policy changes have been promulgated, we ask that you immediately withdraw this guidance and re-engage with stakeholders, states, and Congress, the senators wrote in a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Seema Verma, and Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin. The senators made it clear these actions did not reflect Congress' intent in creating the 1332 waiver program, stating the Administration's recent guidance significantly changes enforcement of these four important guardrails, undermining Congressional intent and posing a significant risk to consumers that now have affordable and comprehensive health coverage. Additionally the proposed changes, which were outlined in guidance provided by the administration and a discussion paper released a few months ba… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.feinstein.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=C563FA18-8336-4496-9C2F-CC52947045DE Feinstein Statement on Whitaker Failure to Recuse 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Dianne Feinstein F000062 www.feinstein.senate.gov     legacy WashingtonSenator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today issued the following statement on Matthew Whitaker's refusal to follow Justice Department recommendations that he recuse himself from supervising Special Counsel Mueller's investigation: Press reports indicate that Matt Whitaker did not seek a formal opinion from career Justice Department ethics officials and chose to ignore their informal advice to recuse himself from supervising Special Counsel Mueller's investigation. These reports are deeply disturbing, if true. Making matters worse, reports indicate that Whitaker convened a team of four advisors who stated he did not need to recuse himself. An issue of this significance should be addressed with a formal ethics opinionnot by handpicked political advisorsand advice of career attorneys should be followed. Recusal is important to ensure confidence in the independence of an investigation. Whitaker's repeated statements against the special counsel's investigation, at a minimum, create the appearance of a conflict. It's also not true that an attorney general has never recused due to an appearance of conflict. Attorney General John Ashcroft recused from the Valerie Plame investigation, with then Deputy Attorney General James Comey explaining, The issue surrounding the attorney general's recusal is not one of actual conflict of interest that arises normally when someone has a financial interest or something. The issue that he was concerned about was one of appearance' Whitaker's refusal to follow the recommendation of ethics officials further indicates that he views his role as serving the president, not the American people. In November, I urged Chairman Grassley to hold an oversight hearing so that we could assess whether Whitaker's appointment puts the Mueller investigation at risk. Today's reports that Whitaker disregarded ethics officials creates even more reason for him to appear before the committee. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.feinstein.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=E8F4317F-787C-40A2-A8DD-893B9AE9C743 Senate Passes Feinstein-Grassley Bill to Combat Human Trafficking 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Dianne Feinstein F000062 www.feinstein.senate.gov     legacy Washington The Senate this week unanimously passed a bipartisan bill to aid in the fight against human trafficking. The Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2017, authored by Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and cosponsored by Ranking Member Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), would renew existing programs that make federal resources available to human trafficking survivors and establish new prevention, prosecution and collaboration initiatives to help bring the perpetrators to justice. The bill was unanimously passed in the House of Representatives earlier this year and now must be signed by President Trump before becoming law. Sex trafficking is one of the most reprehensible crimes, and the Trafficking Victims Protection Act builds on our bipartisan efforts to combat trafficking and help victims. The key to reducing demand is addressing the exploitation of young girls on the Internet.The bill provides the Justice Department with civil injunction authority to get court orders forcing traffickers to remove their ads for underage girls,Feinstein said. We need a united approach to taking down human traffickers and bringing victims the justice they deserve. This bill takes meaningful steps to shed light on this terrible abuse of human rights by improving awareness and streamlining federal law enforcement's response. I'm grateful for the Senate's sweeping support of this bill to assist victims, and look forward to House action so we can get it to the President's desk and on the books, Grassley said. Education and public information is a critical first line of defense against human trafficking. This bill promotes the screening of human trafficking victims by ensuring that school resource officers and other school personnel receive training on how to identify and respond to victims. It also calls for advanced training of federal investigators who pursue human traffickers. The legislation also allows prosecutors to enjoin conduct that violates human trafficking statutes, and allows the U.S. Secr… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.harris.senate.gov/news/press-releases/harris-introduces-legislative-package-to-increase-access-to-mental-health-services Harris Introduces Legislative Package to Increase Access to Mental Health Services 2018-12-20 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Kamala Harris H001075 www.harris.senate.gov     legacy December 20, 2018 Harris Introduces Legislative Package to Increase Access to Mental Health Services WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Kamala D. Harris (D-CA) introduced two bills, theMental Health Telemedicine Expansion Actand theMental Health Professionals Workforce Shortage Loan Repayment Act, to expand access to mental health services for millions of Americans experiencing mental illness, especially those in rural and medically underserved areas. Currently, more than 123 million Americans live in an area with a shortage of mental health professionals. TheMental Health Telemedicine Expansion Actis the Senate companion to legislation introduced by Rep. DelBene (WA-01) and Rep. Reed (NY-23). TheMental Health Professionals Workforce Shortage Loan Repayment Actis the Senate companion to legislation introduced by Rep. Katko (NY-24) and Rep. Napolitano (CA-32). Millions of Americans live with mental illness, yet far too few receive the treatment they need due to lack of access or stigma surrounding their struggles. Our country is facing a mental health crisis, and we must take bold steps to address it,said Harris.It is absolutely vital that we increase the number of mental health professionals working in underserved areas and expand the use of innovative treatment delivery techniques such as telemedicine. TheMental Health Telemedicine Expansion Actwould: Allow Medicare beneficiaries to access certain mental health services through telemedicine regardless of where they live, as opposed to only geographic regions with provider shortages. Allow Medicare beneficiaries to access these mental health services through telemedicine in their own home, as opposed to only at a qualified originating site such as a doctor's office. TheMental Health Professionals Workforce Shortage Loan Repayment Actwould: Authorize a new loan repayment program for mental health professionals who agree to practice in an area with a shortage of mental health professionals. Repay one-sixth of a professiona… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roybal-allard.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398531 Rep. Roybal-Allard Statement on Continuing Resolution 2018-12-19 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Lucille Roybal-Allard R000486 roybal-allard.house.gov     legacy Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40) issued the following statement on the continuing resolution to extend government funding through February 8, 2019:Republican leadership has failed to govern. By choosing to pursue a second CR instead of passing appropriations bills that truly meet our nation's needs, Republicans have failed to provide government agencies with the certainty they need to serve the American people. This is not how the Appropriations process should be run. As the top Democrat on the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, I will keep fighting for policies that keep our country safe. We cannot afford to waste money on Donald Trump's immoral, ineffective, and expensive border wall, especially when there are so many genuine Homeland Security needs that we must fund. When Democrats assume leadership of the House next month, we must fight to spend Homeland Security funds responsibly, limit funding for harmful Trump immigration policies, and conduct strict oversight of the Department of Homeland Security. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://barragan.house.gov/rep-barragan-travels-to-southern-border-to-meet-with-maria-meza-her-daughters-and-asylum-seekers/ Rep. Barragn Travels to Southern Border to Meet with Maria Meza, Her Daughters and Asylum Seekers 2018-12-19 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Nanette Barragán B001300 barragan.house.gov     legacy PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release December 18, 2018 Contact: Clarissa Rojas 202-225-8220 clarissa.rojas@mail.house.gov Rep. Barragn Travels to Southern Border to Meet with Maria Meza, Her Daughters and Asylum Seekers Los Angeles, CA Yesterday, Rep.Nanette Diaz Barragn (CA-44)traveled to Tijuana to meet with asylum seekers at Enclave Caracol and the Otay Mesa Port of Entry includingMaria Mezaand her children who were previously photographed fleeing tear gas at the border last month. After spending the morning with Meza and other asylum seekers, she joinedRep. Jimmy Gomez (CA-34)at the U.S-Mxico border to investigate reports that the Trump administration is rejecting asylum seekers at official ports of entry. They walked with a group of 15 migrants to the Otay Mesa Port of Entry where they observed the migrants present themselves for asylum. Officials from Customs and Border Protection denied entry to the group of 15. When CBP claimed they were at capacity, Reps. Barragn and Gomez requested to go inside the facility to see the capacity issues but officials refused. Members, staff, attorneys and the migrants, waited over six hours before eight of the unaccompanied minors were finally taken in for processing. Reps. Barragn and Gomez waited another three hours in the cold before Maria Meza and her family were allowed to seek asylum. The remaining six migrants had to wait another eleven hours before they were admitted. Time and time again I have heard from Trump Administration officials that people are free to seek asylum by presenting themselves at any U.S. port of entry,said Rep. Barragn.Yesterday, I stood at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry and saw migrants, families and unaccompanied minors who fear for their safety, be turned away despite being on U.S. soil. Migrants are told to follow the law but when migrants seeking asylum attempt to do so, they are turned away. It shouldn't have to take a Member of Congress to observe at the border so that CBP can process migrants like Maria Meza and her daughters.… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://bass.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/rep-bass-discusses-us-involvement-syria-kcal9 Rep. Bass Discusses U.S. Involvement In Syria On KCAL9 2018-12-19 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Karen Bass B001270 bass.house.gov     legacy Los Angeles, CA Office 4929 Wilshire Blvd Suite 650 Los Angeles,CA 90010 Phone: (323) 965-1422 Fax: (323) 965-1113 Washington, DC Office 2059 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-7084 Fax: (202) 225-2422 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://bass.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-bass-calls-trump-policy-syria-flippant Rep. Bass Calls Trump Policy In Syria "Flippant" 2018-12-19 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Karen Bass B001270 bass.house.gov     legacy Los Angeles, CA Office 4929 Wilshire Blvd Suite 650 Los Angeles,CA 90010 Phone: (323) 965-1422 Fax: (323) 965-1113 Washington, DC Office 2059 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-7084 Fax: (202) 225-2422 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://bass.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-bass-slams-shackling-pregnant-inmates Rep. Bass Slams Shackling Of Pregnant Inmates 2018-12-19 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Karen Bass B001270 bass.house.gov     legacy Los Angeles, CA Office 4929 Wilshire Blvd Suite 650 Los Angeles,CA 90010 Phone: (323) 965-1422 Fax: (323) 965-1113 Washington, DC Office 2059 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-7084 Fax: (202) 225-2422 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lieu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-lieu-statement-withdrawal-us-forces-syria REP LIEU STATEMENT ON WITHDRAWAL OF U.S. FORCES FROM SYRIA 2018-12-19 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Ted Lieu L000582 lieu.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON -Today, Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) issued the following statement after it was reported that the Trump Administration would be withdrawing troops from Syria. "I strongly agree with the President's decision to withdraw US troops from Syria. Congress never authorized the US to go to war in Syria. While going after terrorists is authorized, both the Obama and Trump Administrations went far beyond the congressionally authorized use of force against terrorists. Moreover, neither Administration had a strategy for Syria. Neither Administration could articulate why American troops were fighting in Syria, what the desired end state should be, nor how we would achieve it. I repeatedly criticized both Administrations for not having a strategy and for taking war actions not authorized by Congress. I am pleased that this unauthorized and failed executive branch war in Syria will finally come to an end." Rep Lieu's prior statements on Syria: In June 2017, Rep. Lieu condemned President Trump for threatening President Bashar al-Assad and asserted that Congress must authorize any use of force in Syria. In May 2017, Rep. Lieu spoke out against the U.S. military's airstrikes in Syria. In April 2017, Rep. Lieu denounced President Bashar al-Assad's chemical weapons attack, and criticized the Trump Administration's lack of coherent strategy in Syria and its unauthorized use of force. In March 2017, Rep. Lieu sent aletterto Secretary of Defense James Mattis regarding recent reports of significant increases in civilian casualties from U.S. airstrikes in Syria and Iraq. In March 2017, Rep. Lieu slammed the Trump Administration's decision to deploy U.S. ground troops in Syria. In October 2015, Rep. Lieu commended the Obama Administration for ending the Syrian rebel training program, and called again for an end to U.S. airstrikes. In September 2015, Rep. Lieu expressed deep concern over U.S. airstrikes in Syria, citing his prior record of opposing U.S. military force in Syria. In August 2015, Rep. Lieu urged … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://napolitano.house.gov/media/press-releases/napolitano-s-water-infrastructure-improvement-act-passes-house Napolitanos Water Infrastructure Improvement Act Passes House 2018-12-19 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Grace Napolitano N000179 napolitano.house.gov     legacy (WASHINGTON, DC) Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed with large bipartisan support H.R. 7279, the Water Infrastructure Improvement Act, a bill coauthored by Reps. Grace F. Napolitano (D-CA-32) and Bob Gibbs (R-OH-7). This is incredibly important to cities in my Congressional district as they meet the challenges of the Los Angeles County MS4 Stormwater permit,said Congresswoman Grace Napolitano. Our legislation will greatly assist them and communities nationwide by providing them with flexibility to address these permits, while ensuring the protection of our nation's rivers, lakes, and streams. I thank the House leadership for bringing our bill to the floor and Congressman Gibbs for his willingness to work with us to reach an agreement on this important issue. Many of our nation's cities, towns, and municipalities are faced with EPA mandates, aging water infrastructure, and rising repair or construction costs,said Congressman Bob Gibbs. These problems, and the price to fix them, ultimately fall on residents. Integrated Planning can help bridge the gaps between these issues, encourage innovative solutions, and prevent undue financial burdens on ratepayers. Access to clean and affordable water utilities is important to everyone, and the municipalities tasked with delivering it should have every tool at their disposal. I want to thank Congresswoman Napolitano and my colleagues from both sides of the aisle for coming together to find solutions to the water infrastructure problems our communities face. H.R. 7279 codifies a concept from the Obama administration known as Integrated Planning, which can assist communities with meeting their requirements under the Clean Water Act while maintaining their obligation to achieve improvements in local water quality. EPA's Integrated Planning framework provides communities with a voluntary opportunity to prioritize local clean water investments with the greatest benefit to human health and the environment. The legislation builds on a recent provision Napolitano includ… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/pelosi-statement-on-continuing-resolution Pelosi Statement on Continuing Resolution 2018-12-19 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Nancy Pelosi P000197 pelosi.house.gov     legacy Contact: Ashley Etienne/Henry Connelly, 202-226-7616 Washington, D.C. Speaker-designate Nancy Pelosi issued this statement on Republicans' continuing resolution proposal: Democrats offered President Trump a clear path forward to pass six bipartisan appropriations bills along with a one-year continuing resolution for the Homeland Security bill. Democratic and Republican Appropriators have been ready to pass these bills in a bipartisan way, and we are grateful for their leadership to meet the needs of the American people. This is a missed opportunity to pass full-year funding bills now. However, Democrats will be ready to fully, responsibly fund our government in January, and we will support this continuing resolution. # # # 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/pelosi-statement-on-continuing-resolution-0 Pelosi Statement on Continuing Resolution 2018-12-19 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Nancy Pelosi P000197 pelosi.house.gov     legacy Contact: Ashley Etienne/Henry Connelly, 202-226-7616 Washington, D.C. Speaker-designate Nancy Pelosi issued this statement on Republicans' continuing resolution proposal: Democrats offered President Trump a clear path forward to pass six bipartisan appropriations bills along with a one-year continuing resolution for the Homeland Security bill. Democratic and Republican Appropriators have been ready to pass these bills in a bipartisan way, and we are grateful for their leadership to meet the needs of the American people. This is a missed opportunity to pass full-year funding bills now. However, Democrats will be ready to fully, responsibly fund our government in January, and we will support this continuing resolution. # # # 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/pelosi-statement-on-withdrawal-of-troops-from-syria Pelosi Statement on Withdrawal of Troops from Syria 2018-12-19 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Nancy Pelosi P000197 pelosi.house.gov     legacy Contact: Ashley Etienne/Henry Connelly, 202-226-7616 Washington, D.C. Speaker-designate Nancy Pelosi released this statement on the President's announcement that the U.S. will move troops out of Syria: It is premature for the President to declare a sweeping victory against ISIS when, just a few weeks ago, our military led more than 250 coalition-conducted airstrikes against targets in Iraq and Syria. All Americans should be concerned that this hasty announcement was made on the day after sentencing in criminal proceedings began against the President's former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn, who admitted that he was a registered foreign agent for a country with clear interests in the Syrian conflict. We must also ask why the President did not make this decision in the context of advancing peace negotiations. The deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Syria remains a stain on the conscience of the world. Syrian families caught in the middle of this conflict continue to endure heartbreaking horrors every day. When we take the gavel, our Democratic Majority will uphold the Congress' constitutional oversight responsibilities to ensure that the President's decisions advance our national security interests, not his personal or political objectives. The American people deserve a smart, strong and strategic Syria policy that keeps America safe, protects our interests and advances peace in the region. # # # 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://ruiz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/dr-ruiz-mountain-communities-fire-safe-council-announce-200000-grant Dr. Ruiz, Mountain Communities Fire Safe Council Announce $200,000 Grant for Wildfire Prevention 2018-12-19 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Raul Ruiz R000599 ruiz.house.gov ruiz https://ruiz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Today, Dr. Raul Ruiz (D-Palm Desert) and the Mountain Communities Fire Safe Council announced a $200,000 grant to improve wildfire prevention and fire safety education in communities throughout the San Jacinto Mountains. Over the next two years, the grant will fund a program to remove hazardous fuels from private property and educate local residents about fire safety. "I have seen houses and property saved during the Cranston Fire as a result of Mountain Communities Fire Safe Council's educational outreach and fuel reduction projects. I am proud to have helped the MCFSC earn this grant award," said Dr. Ruiz. "The Cranston Fire demonstrated how quickly wildfires can spread, and groups like MCFSC are helping our communities prevent wildfires before they endanger local residents. As these fires grow in size and frequency, I will continue to work with MCFSC to bring home necessary resources to help prevent fires and keep my constituents safe." "Many of the people coming to live in the mountains know very little of the forest environment and its relationship with wildland fire. The protection of life and property in a rural community as it relates to wildland fire depends largely on continuous forest fuels reduction done by the local property owners," said Pete Coy, Field Supervisor for the Mountain Communities Fire Safe Council. "The grant funding that we receive is used to help educate these property owners and to give them incentive to make their homes and their community as fire safe as possible." Background Earlier this month, the Mountain Communities Fire Safety Council was awarded a grant from the California Fire Safe Council, which allocates federal funds from the U.S. Forest Service for fire prevention and response. The $200,000 grant will help fund a new program that educates residents of Idyllwild and the surrounding communities about fire safety, in addition to funding the removal of dead trees, brush, and overgrowth from private property. These services will be publicly available and entirely free to … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://sherman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/senators-markey-and-rubio-and-reps-sherman-and-messer-introduce Senators Markey and Rubio, and Reps. Sherman and Messer Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Thwart Saudi Arabias Nuclear Weapons Ambitions 2018-12-19 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Brad Sherman S000344 sherman.house.gov     legacy Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-30), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Rep. Luke Messer (IN-06) today introduced legislation that increases Congressional oversight over any civil nuclear cooperation agreement or123agreement between the United States andSaudiArabia. Since 2017, there have been reports of negotiations between the Trump administration andSaudiArabia on a potential123agreement, with Energy Secretary Rick Perry recently returning from the region after meeting with leaders about a potential deal. Specifically, theNo Nuclear Weapons forSaudiArabia Actwould require Congress to affirmatively approve any 123 agreement with Saudi Arabia. Typically, 123 agreementswhich authorize U.S. companies to sell nuclear technology abroadgo into effect unless veto-proof majorities of Congress pass joint resolutions of disapproval. The legislation also makes clear that Congress believes that no 123 agreement with Saudi Arabia should be approved unless and until the Kingdom is truthful and transparent about the death of U.S. journalist Jamal Khashoggi, unless it commits to forego any uranium enrichment or spent fuel reprocessing activities the so-called gold standard within its territory, and until it agrees to implement the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) Additional Protocol. The legislation also urges Saudi Arabia to make substantial progress on protecting human rights, including through the release of political prisoners. Saudi Arabia's recent turn toward authoritarianism is evident in its flagrant and growing disregard for international laws and fundamental human rights, and it must be held to account, said Senator Markey. Crown Prince Mohamad bin Salman has made it perfectly clear that he is more interested in harnessing nuclear energy in Saudi Arabia for geopolitical power than for electrical power and has even publicly declared his willingness to pursue nuclear weapons at … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.feinstein.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/op-eds?ContentRecord_id=E8781EFA-9921-4B43-ABCD-25F248B7B2CA Dont celebrate the Trump administrations bump stock ban too quickly - The Washington Post 2018-12-19 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Dianne Feinstein F000062 www.feinstein.senate.gov     legacy By Dianne Feinstein Originally published in The Washington Post. The Justice Department issued a regulation Tuesday banning bump-fire stocks, devices that can essentially transform semiautomatic weapons, such as an AR-15, into automatic rifles that fire at a rate of between 400 and 800 rounds per minute. These devices can inflict absolute carnage, as they did in October 2017, when a gunman killed 58 people at a concert in Las Vegas. Support for banning bump stocks is widespread, and it's encouraging to see the Trump administration take action on gun safety. But let's not celebrate too quickly. Presidents can rescind regulations just as easily as they create them, and in this case, the bump stock ban will likely be tied up in court for years. Only hours after the Trump administration released its final regulation, Gun Owners of America announced it would file a lawsuit. To ensure a ban is implemented and protected from legal challenges, Congress must still pass a law banning bump stocks and other similar devices, such as trigger cranks. The sale and manufacture of automatic weapons have been illegal since the National Firearms Act was updated in 1986. The law even though it eased restrictions on most guns by allowing interstate sales of long guns and removing requirements to record ammunition sales made clear that civilians should not have such weapons. Automatic weapons produced before 1986 are highly regulated, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives tracks them. Despite this, the agency has consistently stated that bump stocks could not be regulated under the current law. That was because they do not fit the legal definition of an automatic weapon under the National Firearms Act. Automatic weapons are defined by their ability to fire a continuous number of rounds by holding down the trigger. Bump stocks and other accessories have made this definition largely obsolete, creating a loophole that circumvents Congress's intent to bar civilians from achieving automatic rates of fire. Tha… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.feinstein.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0A38EEDD-B2B0-427F-A270-3BEC6FB00A8E Senators to Trump Administration: Protect Rights of Transgender Federal Employees 2018-12-19 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Dianne Feinstein F000062 www.feinstein.senate.gov     legacy WashingtonSenator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and 28 Senate colleagues called on the Trump administration to restore guidelines for protecting the privacy and rights of transgender federal employees. Last month, the Office of Personnel Management replaced information on its website that provided supervisors with guidelines regarding transgender federal employees with new guidance that omits essential information, including any reference to transgender individuals. The original guidance addressed common questions that agency managers and federal employees had raised with OPM, identifying issues and core concepts specific to understanding rights and fair treatment of transgender employees, the senators wrote. The new guidance that replaced it omits essential information, including any reference to transgender individuals, greatly diminishing OPM's ability to educate federal agencies on anti-discrimination policies and retain a productive federal workforce as diverse as the people it serves. Full text of the letter follows: December 18, 2018 The Honorable Margaret Weichert Acting Director U.S. Office of Personnel Management 1900 E Street, NW Washington, DC 20415 Dear Acting Director Weichert: We write to express our serious concern that guidance meant to ensure transgender federal employees are treated with dignity and respect has been removed from the website of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM). We request that you immediately make the guidance available online, so that managers, supervisors, and employees are equipped with accurate information and fully understand their responsibilities in the federal workplace. The original guidance addressed common questions that agency managers and federal employees had raised with OPM, identifying issues and core concepts specific to understanding rights and fair treatment of transgender employees. The new guidance that replaced it omits essential information, including any reference to transgender individuals, greatly diminishing OPM's ability to educ… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.harris.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-harris-and-booker-lead-historic-passage-of-federal-anti-lynching-legislation Senators Harris and Booker Lead Historic Passage of Federal Anti-Lynching Legislation 2018-12-19 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Kamala Harris H001075 www.harris.senate.gov     legacy December 19, 2018 Senators Harris and Booker Lead Historic Passage of Federal Anti-Lynching Legislation Video WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Kamala D. Harris (D-CA) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) took to the Senate floor to ask for unanimous consent to pass the bipartisanJustice for Victims of Lynching Act of 2018, historic legislation that would criminalize lynching, attempts to lynch, and conspiracy to lynch for the first time in American history. The motion passed, marking the first time in American history that federal anti-lynching legislation has been passed by the Senate. Lynchings were needless and horrendous acts of violence that were motivated by racism. And we must acknowledge that fact, lest we repeat it, said Senator Harris. From 1882 to 1986, Congress failed to pass anti-lynching legislation when it had an opportunity 200 times. Today, by passing this bill we have offered some long overdue justice and recognition to the victims of lynching crimes." Today is an emotional and historic day. For over a century, members of Congress have attempted to pass some version of a bill that would recognize lynching for what it is: a bias-motivated act of terror. And for more than a century, and more than 200 attempts, this body has failed. Today, we have righted that wrong and taken corrective action that recognizes this stain on our country's history, said Senator Booker. This bill will not undo the damage, the terror, and the violence that has been already done, nor will it bring back the lives that have been brutally taken. It will not reverse the irrevocable harm that lynching as a tool of oppression and suppression has caused. But it will acknowledge the wrongs in our history. It will honor the memories of those so brutally killed. And it will leave a legacy that future generations can look back on that on this day, in this time, we did the right thing. The Justice for Victims of Lynching Act of 2018 amends the United States Code to specify that lynching is a crime under existing federal civi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roybal-allard.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398529 Reps. Roybal-Allard & DeLauro Call for Enforcement of Child Labor Laws 2018-12-18 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Lucille Roybal-Allard R000486 roybal-allard.house.gov     legacy Today, Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40) and Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) sent a letter to Department of Labor (DOL) Acting Administrator of the Wage and Hour Division Bryan Jarrett calling for a comprehensive DOL strategy to enforce child labor laws. Their letter follows a new Government Accountability Office (GAO) study commissioned at their request which found that child labor accounts for a devastatingly high amount of work-related fatalities in the United States, especially in the agricultural sector.More than 75 years after the passage of the Fair Labor Standards Act, which strengthened protections for America's most vulnerable children, serious violations persist for child laborers working on farms in the United States, wrote the Members.Despite employing a small percentage of working children, the data concludes that the agriculture sector is responsible for over half of the 452 work-related fatalities among children during the duration of the study. Moreover, the study conducted by GAO revealed that although the agricultural sector surpasses all industries for most work-related fatalities, it ranks just fifth for most Wage and Hour violations. We are therefore concerned that your agency lacks strategic enforcement to ensure there is proper accountability for violations, as logic dictates that the sector responsible for the most deaths by far would also commit the most violations, continued the Members.Oversight provided by the Department of Labor is necessary to protect the welfare of children in the workforce, especially in the agriculture sector where a disproportionate number of children are being killed. We request a comprehensive strategy to address this gap in enforcement no later than April 2019. Rep. Roybal-Allard serves as a member of the House Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations Subcommittee, which is responsible for funding the DOL, and Rep. DeLauro serves as the subcommittee's lead Democrat. A copy of the signed letter can be found here. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://aguilar.house.gov/2018/12/18/aguilar-issues-115th-congress-report-constituents/ Aguilar Issues 115th Congress Report to Constituents 2018-12-18 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Pete Aguilar A000371 aguilar.house.gov aguilar https://aguilar.house.gov/category/congress_press_release/ scraper Press Releases Aguilar Issues 115th Congress Report to Constituents Rep. Aguilar issued a report to residents of California’s 31st Congressional District to review his work on behalf of Inland Empire families during the 115th Congress. Reflecting on his service in the 115th Congress, Aguilar issued the following statement: “Throughout my time in Congress, I’ve dedicated myself to making life better for families in the Inland Empire, the community my family has called home for four generations. From protecting access to health care and expanding job opportunities for our residents, to leading efforts to reach a bipartisan immigration compromise in the House of Representatives, I’ve worked every day to deliver on the priorities that matter most to the Inland Empire. I look forward to continuing that work in the 116th Congress.” In the 115th Congress, Rep. Aguilar: Helped 784 constituents resolve issues with federal agencies such as Social Security, Medicare and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Helped return nearly $2 million that the federal government owed to residents of the 31st Congressional District. Announced over $80 million in federal funding for the Inland Empire, including over $1 million in terrorism preparedness funding and over $1 million for local fire departments. Hosted 10 community grants workshops and webinars to help connect local government agencies and non-profits with federal funding opportunities. Hosted two Inland Empire Jobs Fairs, resulting in over 60 Inland Empire residents getting hired. Hosted two Senior Fairs to provide Inland Empire seniors with free health screenings and help them obtain information on local food programs, health services, and Medicare, Social Security and veterans benefits. Hosted two Veterans Resource Fairs to connect Inland Empire veterans with local resources on health care, housing, employment and assistance with VA claims. Hosted seven town hall meetings, including a Seniors Town Hall, an Immigration Town Hall and two Telephone Town Halls. … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://aguilar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aguilar-issues-115th-congress-report-constituents Aguilar Issues 115th Congress Report to Constituents 2018-12-18 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Pete Aguilar A000371 aguilar.house.gov     legacy Rep. Aguilar issued a report to residents of California's 31st Congressional District to review his work on behalf of Inland Empire families during the 115th Congress. Reflecting on his service in the 115th Congress, Aguilar issued the following statement: Throughout my time in Congress, I've dedicated myself to making life better for families in the Inland Empire, the community my family has called home for four generations. From protecting access to health care and expanding job opportunities for our residents, to leading efforts to reach a bipartisan immigration compromise in the House of Representatives, I've worked every day to deliver on the priorities that matter most to the Inland Empire. I look forward to continuing that work in the 116th Congress. In the 115th Congress, Rep. Aguilar: Helped over 1,200 constituents resolve issues with federal agencies such as Social Security, Medicare and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Helped return nearly $2 million that the federal government owed to residents of the 31st Congressional District. Announced over $80 million in federal funding for the Inland Empire, including over $1 million in terrorism preparedness funding and over $1 million for local fire departments. Hosted 10 community grants workshops and webinars to help connect local government agencies and non-profits with federal funding opportunities. Hosted two Inland Empire Jobs Fairs, resulting in over 60 Inland Empire residents getting hired. Hosted two Senior Fairs to provide Inland Empire seniors with free health screenings and help them obtain information on local food programs, health services, and Medicare, Social Security and veterans benefits. Hosted two Veterans Resource Fairs to connect Inland Empire veterans with local resources on health care, housing, employment and assistance with VA claims. Hosted seven town hall meetings, including a Seniors Town Hall, an Immigration Town Hall and two Telephone Town Halls. Participated in over 330 constituent meetings, tours and events.… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://cardenas.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-c-rdenas-van-nuys-airports-90th-anniversary Congressman Crdenas on Van Nuys Airport's 90th Anniversary 2018-12-18 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Tony Cárdenas C001097 cardenas.house.gov     legacy Congratulations to Van Nuys Airport (VNY) as they celebrate 90 Years of Flight. Van Nuys Airport is the largest economic engine in the San Fernando Valley. It's also a cornerstone of the community VNY served as a staging area for firefighters during one of the deadliest wildfire seasons in the history of this country, and pilots and firefighters based there worked long hours keepingCalifornians safe. A world leader in environmental responsibility as well as community safety, Van Nuys Airport is one of only five general aviation airports anywhere to gain a Carbon Emissions Reduction Accreditation. I would like to commend the owners, operators, tenants, airport staff, and every person in the San Fernando Valley community that has helped make the Van Nuys Airport a global leader in service, safety andresponsibility. ### Contact: Bryan Doyle (202) 225-6131 bryan.doyle@mail.house.gov 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://costa.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/costa-stands-hispanic-caucus-ensure-humane-and-safe-treatment-all Costa Stands with Hispanic Caucus to Ensure Humane and Safe Treatment for All 2018-12-18 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Jim Costa C001059 costa.house.gov     legacy Fresno, CA Congressman Jim Costa (CA-16) issued the following statement regarding the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) of which he is a member visiting Lordsburg Station to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of Jakelin Amei Rosmery Caal Maquin while she was in U.S. Customs and Border Protection custody: I would like to thank CHC Chairman-elect Joaquin Castro and all CHC members who were able to travel to Lordsburg today for being leaders in the investigation of the circumstances surrounding thetragic death of Jakelin Amei Rosmery Caal Maquin. As a nation, we must ensure our facilities and policies support our American values. This includes treating all people humanely, justly, and with dignity. While I could not be with my fellow CHC members today, I stand in solidarity with them in their investigation. As Americans, we must ensure the health and safety of those seeking refuge at our borders. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://gomez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=431 Reps. Jimmy Gomez and Nanette Barragán Travel to Southern Border to Investigate Conditions of Asylum Seekers 2018-12-18 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Jimmy Gomez G000585 gomez.house.gov     legacy Los Angeles, CA Yesterday,Reps. Jimmy Gomez (CA-34)andNanette Diaz Barragn (CA-44) traveled to the U.S.-Mexico border to investigate reports that the Trump administration is illegally rejecting asylum seekers at official ports of entry. The Members traveled with immigration groups including Al Otro Lado, Families Belong Together, and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). Reps. Gomez and Barragn observed a group of asylum seekers present themselves at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry where officials from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) denied entry to a group of migrants for several hours and claimed their facility was at capacity. After questioning CBP on their capacity issues, Reps. Gomez and Barragn requested to see the facility, but the officials refused to let the Members inside. While at the border, they were able to get a firsthand account of what was happening on the ground and escorted a group of asylum seekers who legally presented themselves on U.S. territory. Among them was Maria Meza and her children, who were previously seen fleeing tear gas at the border last month. As a member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, I went down to the border to ensure the Trump administration was treating migrant families in a humane and lawful manner but what I found was a manufactured crisis,said Rep. Jimmy Gomez.This administration is falsely telling the world that it is unable to handle the flow of migrants due to a lack of resources. In reality, their faulty policies are creating a bottleneck that is preventing families from lawfully seeking asylum. Thanks to pressure from myself, Representative Barragn, and a number of organizations, border authorities have finally allowed a number of families to enter the U.S. to be processed for asylum including that of Maria Meza, who is now known across the world for the photos of her family fleeing a U.S. tear gas attack. As I return to Washington, I'll work with my colleagues in Congress to ensure that every family at the border is… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://khanna.house.gov/media/in-the-news/democratic-house-will-address-most-important-civil-rights-issue-half-century Democratic House will address most important civil rights issue in half century 2018-12-18 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Ro Khanna K000389 khanna.house.gov     legacy n its first act next January, the new House is scheduled to take up the most important civil rights bill in half a century. The bill signals a profoundly comprehensive understanding of the flaws that have evolved within our democracy. That it is scheduled first screams a recognition that these flaws must be fixed first, if we're to have a Congress that is free to do the other critically important work that Congress must do. But that the bill is all but invisible to anyone outside the beltway signals the most important gap left in this most important fight to make representative democracy in America possible if not again, then finally. The bill denominatedH.R. 1 is a radically comprehensive and practical fix to all but one of the critical failures of our evolved system of representative democracy. Crafted primarily by Representative John Sarbanes (D-MD), the bill recognizes that there are multiple flaws within our democracy and that these flaws must be addressed together. H.R. 1 would establish, for the first time in American history, a system to fund congressional campaigns throughsmall-dollar matching funds; thus would it liberate members of Congress from dependence on large private funders. The bill would brilliantly leverage Congress's constitutional authority to force states to end partisan gerrymandering by adopting nonpartisanredistricting commissions an obviously better solution than anything the Supreme Court could ever craft. It would trigger the automatic registration of voters nationally. It wouldrestorethe Voting Rights Act, and secure critical protections to assure an equal freedom to vote, by encouraging early voting and modernization of voting technology. And the bill would imposestrict new regulationson Congress itself, slowing the revolving door and strengthening conflict of interest rules, to keep legislators focused on their constituents, not distracted by their own personal interest. (Left untouched is the fundamental distortion produced by the winner-take-all system for allocating elector… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mcnerney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-mcnerney-statement-on-visa-waiver-granted-to-shaima-swileh Rep. McNerney Statement on Visa Waiver Granted to Shaima Swileh 2018-12-18 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Jerry McNerney M001166 mcnerney.house.gov     legacy Washington, DC Today, the U.S. State Department announced that Shaima Swileh, a Yemeni national and the mother of a terminally ill two-year-old boy from Stockton, CA, has received the necessary waiver to obtain a visa and come to the United States. Leading up to this decision, Congressman Jerry McNerney (CA-09) led a letter urging the State Department to expedite its decision on Swileh's pending waiver under Presidential Proclamation 9645 which restricts travel to the United States for foreign nationals from seven countries, including Yemen. In response to the State Department's decision, Congressman McNerney issued the following statement: No mother should be left wondering whether she will be able to see her child again. Shaima Swileh's visa was held up because of the president's travel ban, wasting precious time she could have spent with her terminally ill son during his last days. Although Shaima's visa is moving forward, the president's travel ban which discriminatorily targets individuals based on their religion and country of origin remains. This is a sharp departure from our nation's history of welcoming immigrants, and we must continue to fight back against this administration's divisive policies. # # # Rep. Jerry McNerney proudly serves the constituents of California's 9th Congressional District that includes portions of San Joaquin, Contra Costa, and Sacramento Counties. For more information on Rep. McNerney's work,follow him on Facebookand on Twitter@RepMcNerney. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mikethompson.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/thompson-task-force-urge-committees-to-hold-hearings-on-gun-violence Thompson, Task Force Urge Committees to Hold Hearings on Gun Violence Prevention 2018-12-18 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Mike Thompson T000460 mikethompson.house.gov     legacy Washington Today Chairman of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-05) announced that he and other Vice Chairs of the Task Force have asked each incoming committee chair to holding hearings on gun violence issues of jurisdiction to their committee. The American people want Congress to do everything in its power to address gun violence and the new majority will take action. That's why the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force called on all the incoming committee chairs to hold hearings to address issues of gun violence pertinent to their committee work, from public health to funding for research to school safety. We can and we will work to keep our communities safe from gun violence. A summary of the request made to each incoming committee chair is below. The letters were signed by Chairman Thompson and Vice Chairs David N. Cicilline (RI-01), Val Demings (FL-10), Elizabeth Esty (CT-05), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Grace Napolitano (CA-32), Ed Perlmutter (CO-07), David Price (NC-04), Kathleen Rice (NY-04), and Bobby Scott (VA-03). Committee on Agriculture:The Committee represents and serves the diverse agricultural sectors. You know as well as anyone that the tradition of responsible rural gun ownership is the story of our Nation. From safe storage to training and education, rural gun owners have been at the forefront. Hearing from responsible gun owners about their support for commonsense legislative reforms will be key to building our coalition. Committee on Appropriations:Democrats on the Committee on Appropriations have long fought to provide resources to the Centers for Disease Control to study gun violence. As hearings are held on the Fiscal Year 2020 appropriations bill, the critical CDC funding should be at the top of the list for consideration. The Committee on Appropriations should also conduct hearings to assess current funding needs for programs designed to address all different aspects of gun violence in the U.S., including community-based violence intervention programs to suicide … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/pelosi-remarks-at-media-stakeout-following-meeting-with-senator-schumer Pelosi Remarks at Media Stakeout Following Meeting with Senator Schumer 2018-12-18 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Nancy Pelosi P000197 pelosi.house.gov     legacy Contact: Ashley Etienne/Henry Connelly, 202-226-7616 Washington, D.C Speaker-designate Nancy Pelosi offered these remarks at a media stakeout. Below are the Speaker-designate's remarks: Q: Are you close to a deal to avoid a shutdown? Speaker-designate Pelosi. Well, we are not supporting what they proposed which is a billion dollar slush fund for the President to implement his immigration policies. What I said, what we put forward, what we brought to the White House before: the six bills plus a CR or seven bills under a CR. Q: Can you speak behind the microphone for a moment? [inaudible] Speaker-designate Pelosi. Senator Schumer Leader Schumer and I have said that we cannot accept the offer they made of a billion dollar slush fund for the President to implement his very wrong immigration policies, so that won't happen. Q: What's a way out of this? Speaker-designate Pelosi. We've said before, very clearly, that we could possibly come together around a CR for all seven bills, better than that six bills that have already passed the Senate committees and one bill that is a CR for Homeland Security. Six and one or all seven under a CR. Q: Leader Pelosi, do you take it as a good sign that the White House appears to be backing off its $5 billion demand? Speaker-designate Pelosi. Yes, but the [1] billion as the slush fund in addition to the money that would be in the bill this year is not acceptable. Q: What kind of communication needs happen now? Do you need to talk to the White House? Does the White House need to reach out to you? Speaker-designate Pelosi. We'll just see. I think that the White House has backed off the wall and that terminology but what they might want to do with that billion dollars is problematic. Q: How do you see an idea of reprogramming if they try to do a reprogramming of money maybe under MilCon/VA without Congressional blessing? Speaker-designate Pelosi. Well they have to have Congressional blessing for most reprogramming but right now what they offered, we have not accepted. I don't … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/pelosi-statement-on-the-federal-school-safety-commission-report Pelosi Statement on the Federal School Safety Commission Report 2018-12-18 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Nancy Pelosi P000197 pelosi.house.gov     legacy Contact: Ashley Etienne/Henry Connelly, 202-226-7616 Washington, D.C. Speaker-designate Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement after the Trump Administration published its final report and recommendations from the Federal Commission in School Safety: Today, the tenure of Secretary DeVos and the Trump Administration has reached a new low. The Trump Administration's Federal Commission on School Safety report places special interests and the NRA ahead of our responsibility to protect our children and ensure a safe and welcoming school environment for students of all backgrounds. The Trump Administration ignored students, teachers and families to roll back students' civil rights and fill our classrooms with deadly firearms. Not only are Republicans ignoring proven research and dismantling vital student anti-discrimination protections, they have blocked commonsense gun violence prevention measures and underfunded effective school climate practices, anti-bullying initiatives, after-school programs and school counselor supports. The new Democratic Majority will act decisively against ill-conceived attacks that make our schools less safe and ensure all students are free from discrimination. We will take action to prevent gun violence, invest boldly in quality public education, and uphold the integrity of the Every Student Succeeds Act so that all students, regardless of their zip code, succeed. # # # 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://takano.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-takano-the-department-of-educations-federal-commission-on-school-safety-report-is-a-complete-sham Rep. Takano: “The Department of Education’s Federal Commission on School Safety report is a complete sham.” 2018-12-18 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Mark Takano T000472 takano.house.gov takano https://takano.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Riverside, CA – Today, Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.) released this statement after the U.S. Department of Education released the finalreport from the Federal Commission on School Safety: “The Department of Education’s Federal Commission on School Safety report is a complete sham. A better title for this report would be: A guide to trample students’ civil rights, sell more guns, and blame everything on minority students. “As a public school teacher for 24 years, I find it insulting that Secretary DeVos would release a report that calls for rollbacks of protections from discriminatory practices used against students of color, incentivizes arming teachers and staff, and does not address the underlying causes of the epidemic of school shootings in America. “It says a lot about Secretary DeVos and this Administration’s priorities that even reports that should solely be focused on improving the safety of our schools are plagued with partisan, biased provisions that undermine the safety and rights of the same students they should be in place to protect. The Department of Education and the Trump Administration must promote school safety and defend students against discriminatory practices, and Congress will hold them accountable to ensure that they are doing so.” ### Press Contact Dayanara Ramirez (202) 225-2305 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://torres.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/torres-reaction-state-department-announcement-mexico-and-northern Torres Reaction to State Department Announcement on Mexico and the Northern Triangle of Central America 2018-12-18 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Norma J. Torres T000474 torres.house.gov torres https://torres.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC — Today, U.S. Representative Norma J. Torres (D-CA) released the following statement in response to the U.S. State Department's Strategy for Central America and Southern Mexico: "Today's agreement with Mexico does not make sense. Is President Trump's master plan to get Mexico to build the wall with U.S. taxpayer dollars? "We would see much better results if we focused on ensuring that the successor to the NAFTA agreement has strong and enforceable provisions to prevent labor abuses, increase wages, protect the environment, and address the infrastructure needs of both countries. These goals cannot be achieved through an immigration and development agreement. "Weak judicial systems and rampant public corruption in the Northern Triangle, combined with the growing power of Latin American drug cartels, are having a devastating impact on our southern border. Today's announcement does not appear to include any actual new funding for the Northern Triangle. It is just a repackaging of current assistance. In any case, simply spending more American taxpayer money is not a realistic solution. We must demand more. "We need to combine effective foreign assistance with the right kinds of pressure, including tough conditions on spending and targeted sanctions on corrupt and criminal government officials. Sadly, the Trump Administration has failed to stand up for the rule of law in the region, abandoning longstanding U.S. support for civil society and successful initiatives such as the International Commission against Impunity in Guatemala (CICIG). That is why I have introduced the Guatemala Rule of Law Accountability Act, which will apply financial and visa sanctions to government officials that undermine the rule of law. If the Trump administration will not advance real proposals for Central America, then Congress must." Torres is a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Rules Committee. On December 13, 2018, Rep. Torres introduced H.R. 7314, the Guatemala Rule of Law Accountability Act. If enacted,… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.feinstein.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=563686D2-B0FB-4827-ACE7-879F92591997 Feinstein: Ceasefire in Yemen Port City Hopefully Leads to Peace 2018-12-18 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Dianne Feinstein F000062 www.feinstein.senate.gov     legacy WashingtonSenator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today issued the following statement on the ceasefire between Yemeni pro-government forces and Houthi rebels in the city of Hudaydah: The humanitarian crisis that has unfolded in Yemen is heartbreaking. Today's ceasefire in Hudaydah will hopefully allow aid to finally reach the millions of Yemenis who face starvation and help build momentum toward a final peace agreement. The Yemen civil war has directly killed more than 60,000 people. Unfortunately, that is only part of the story. More than 85,000 children have starved to death and millions more are on the brink of that same fatethe tragic result of targeted attacks on Yemen's infrastructure and blockade of the port in Hudaydah. I commend the United Nations for bringing both sides to the negotiating table, and I urge the Trump administration to continue working with our international partners to bring an end to this horrible war. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.feinstein.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=7359E37A-AF21-451E-991A-5C1FC8F6F73F Feinstein Statement on New Report on Trump Organization Foreign Deals 2018-12-18 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Dianne Feinstein F000062 www.feinstein.senate.gov     legacy WashingtonSenator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today released the following statement on a report by Global Witness on the Trump Organization's foreign deals: A new report released yesterday on the Trump Organization's operations in the Dominican Republic shows the need for greater oversight of the president's business and financial dealings. President Trump promised that the Trump Organization would not pursue new foreign business deals during his presidency. He has not kept that promise, with his company pursuing luxury real-estate deals in the Dominican Republic and elsewhere. The Trump Organization's pursuit of business abroad creates glaring conflicts of interest, with the president's foreign policy decisions potentially being influenced by his personal financial interests. Foreign governments may also make decisions affecting the Trump Organization with the goal of receiving favorable treatment from the Trump administration. Our founding fathers drafted the Emoluments Clause of the Constitution to prevent this situation. They did not want foreign governments to be able to put financial pressure on the president. The report also raises questions about taxpayer dollars being used to support business trips taken by the president's children. For example, media reports indicate that Donald Trump Jr.'s trip to India in February cost taxpayers almost $100,000. Eric Trump's trip to Uruguay last year cost an additional $100,000. And the Trump brothers' 2017 trip to the United Arab Emirates to open a golf course cost more than $200,000. We've asked the Government Accountability Office to determine the cost of these trips, and are working to ensure more transparency in Secret Service expense reports. The American people deserve to know how taxpayer dollars are supporting the president's personal business. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.feinstein.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=A8A811CC-3F01-45B2-9006-CFFA8B109124 Feinstein Statement on Regulation to Ban Bump Stocks 2018-12-18 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Dianne Feinstein F000062 www.feinstein.senate.gov     legacy WashingtonSenator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today issued the following statement on the Justice Department's regulation banning bump stocks: Bump stocks allow semi-automatic weapons to fire like automatic weapons, making guns like the AR-15 even more deadly. Banning bump stocks has widespread support and it's encouraging to see the Trump administration take action on this commonsense gun safety proposal. However, Congress must pass legislation to ensure a ban on bump stocks and other similar devices is protected from legal challenges. Until March 2018, ATF maintained that bump stocks could not be banned through administrative action. Legislation is necessary to ensure a ban is implemented and regulations are not tied up in court. Gun Owners of America has already announced its intent to sue to block the ban from taking effect. Congress simply must act to get these dangerous devices off the streets, and I will be reintroducing my bill to ban them early next year. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.harris.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-kamala-harris-visits-afghanistan Senator Kamala Harris Visits Afghanistan 2018-12-18 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Kamala Harris H001075 www.harris.senate.gov     legacy December 18, 2018 Senator Kamala Harris Visits Afghanistan WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Kamala D. Harris (D-CA), a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, recently returned from Kabul, Afghanistan and other locations in the country where she met American servicemembers, diplomats, and national security professionals supporting the Afghan military in their fight against insurgent forces and terrorist organizations such as ISIS, Al Qaeda and the Taliban, toured numerous bases across the country, and received briefings on U.S. military operations in the region. Harris joined U.S. Senators Richard Burr (R-NC) and James Lankford (R-OK) on the congressional delegation. During my time in Afghanistan, I was honored to meet with United States service members, including many from California, who make daily sacrifices on behalf of their country and who are away from home during this holiday season. I was grateful to receive on the ground briefings on the state of the region and discuss how best to keep our country and our allies safe from the threat posed by terrorism, said Harris. I remain eager to find a political solution to the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan so we can bring U.S. servicemembers and national security professionals home. Since joining the U.S. Senate, Harris has also visited Iraq, where she met with troops to discuss the challenges they faced in the fight to defeat ISIS. Earlier this year, Harris visited Marines Corps Base Camp Pendleton in California, where she received briefings on the base's capabilities and met with servicemembers and spouses of active duty Marines and visited the U.S. Navy's submarine base in San Diego. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://chu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-chu-asks-dhs-about-claims-terrorists-southern-border Rep. Chu Asks DHS About Claims of Terrorists at the Southern Border 2018-12-17 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Judy Chu C001080 chu.house.gov     legacy Washington, DC With just days left before a government shutdown, Republican lawmakers continue to insist a border wall is necessary for national security, citing a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) statistic that ten known terrorists a day are identified or captured at the southern border. However, a 2017 State Department report has stated that there is no credible information that any member of a terrorist group has traveled through Mexico to gain access to the United States. The claim has been repeated by President Donald Trump, Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen, and Republican lawmakers including House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy. In response to this alarming statistic, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27) has sent a letter to DHS for clarification on the need for a wall at the border to stop terrorists. The letter can be found online here and below: December 17, 2018 The Honorable Kirstjen M. Nielsen Secretary of Homeland Security Washington, D.C. 20528 Dear Secretary Nielsen: I write to express concern about a U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) statistic being repeated by Republican lawmakers that ten terrorists are apprehended at the United States' southern border each day. According to the New York Times, you made a statement on June 12 of this year that, On average, my department now blocks 10 known or suspected terrorists a day from traveling to or attempting to enter the United States."[1] On December 11, President Trump also said, We caught 10 terrorists over the last very short period of time. Ten.We need the wall.[2] The claim was repeated again by House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy on December 13, who said, That on [the southern] border, they catch on average ten known terrorists a day. This is an alarming statistic. If true, 3,600 terrorists are crossing or attempting to cross our southern border every year. This would represent a significant percentage of terrorists worldwide. The President, Vice President, Department of Homeland Security officials, and members of Congress… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://juliabrownley.house.gov/newbury-park-high-schools-nathan-juan-wins-2018-congressional-app-challenge-for-californias-26th-congressional-district/ Newbury Park High School’s Nathan Juan Wins 2018 Congressional App Challenge for California’s 26th Congressional District 2018-12-17 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Julia Brownley B001285 juliabrownley.house.gov juliabrownley https://juliabrownley.house.gov/category/press-releases/ scraper Washington, DC – Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village) today announced that Nathan Juan, a junior at Newbury Park High School, won the 2018 Congressional App Challenge for California’s 26th Congressional District. Nathan created FaStats, an app that helps youth sports teams track statistics for fast, easy, and up-to-date results. “I want to congratulate Nathan on his great work developing this app,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “The fields of science and technology can play a critical role in young people’s lives and their educational success, and I want to commend all of the students who participated in the Congressional App Challenge this year. The talent and creativity of Ventura County high school students is exceptional.” The Congressional App Challenge is a competition organized by Members of Congress across the country for middle school and high school students to create their own software applications and gain experience with computer coding. Submissions from students across Ventura County were judged by a panel of experts, including Brian Ganley, Chief Information Officer for Ventura County; Rodrigo Cardenas, Industry Liaison for VC Innovates; and Catharine Reznicek, Educational Technology Specialist with the Ventura County Office of Education. “The process of making my app for the Congressional App Challenge has been a fulfilling journey because I have learned so many new computer science skills and expanded my knowledge in the field,” said Nathan Juan. “I am thankful for Congresswoman Julia Brownley for hosting this event that gives students an opportunity to apply themselves in the STEM field.” “I am very impressed with all the students and their entries,” said Brian Ganley, Chief Information Officer for Ventura County. “It was great to see the different approaches, problems, and solutions created by the apps. All of the students did a great job, and I hope they all keep up the great work!” “I have been a judge for the Congressional App Challenge for the past three years and consisten… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://khanna.house.gov/media/in-the-news/new-money-rules-democrats The New Money Rules for Democrats 2018-12-17 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Ro Khanna K000389 khanna.house.gov     legacy SEN. BERNIE SANDERS OFVermont would seek to raise gobs of money early, with designs on amassing north of $275 million for aprimary campaign. For a significantly lesser known Midwest mayor, like 36-year-old Pete Buttigieg, a haul of just a few million dollars in a quarter would be notable. As a fleet of potential Democratic presidential candidates calculate how much money they can and will need to raise for a prospective2020 run,they're also confronting a new reality that where their money comes from could factor almost as greatly as how much they collect. One of the legacies of the 2018 midterm election is the definitive pall it cast on corporate political donations among progressives. More than half of the U.S. House candidates backed by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee swore off money from corporate political action committees. The year saw high-wattage senators like Cory Booker of New Jersey, Kirsten Gillibrand of New York andKamala Harrisof California swear off corporate PACs as well. Beto O'Rourke, who came within 3 points of upsetting Sen. Ted Cruz in Texas, went even further, refusing funding from all types of PACs. He still raked in $80 million and became a national sensation. As a newly Democratic-controlled House readies to move on several pieces of legislation in January aimed at reforming the campaign finance system, exposing "dark money" by anonymous donors and strengthening the requirements separating candidates and outside groups, there will be even more pressure to adhere to a fresh set of rules, regardless of whether they are law or not. "We are changing the way campaigns are funded and that is true at all levels, including the presidential," says Tiffany Muller, the president of the End Citizens United Action Fund, which seeks to override the 2010 Supreme Court decision that opened the floodgates of unregulated, unlimited money in campaigns. "We're going to elevate the issue and elevate the candidates who are taking leadership on the issue. We think that the penalty's going to b… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/congresswoman-lee-statement-on-the-immigration-case-of-shaima-swileh Congresswoman Lee Statement on the Immigration Case of Shaima Swileh 2018-12-17 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Barbara Lee L000551 lee.house.gov     legacy 12.17.18 Congresswoman Lee Statement on the Immigration Case of Shaima Swileh Oakland, CA Congresswoman Barbara Lee released the following statement regarding the immigration case of Shaima Swileh: As a mother myself, I am stunned by the cruelty of barring a mother from reuniting with her sick child. The case of Shaima Swileh shows clearly the damage wreaked on families across this country by the Trump administration's un-American travel ban. I am committed to doing all I can to fight it and to restore decency and humanity to our nation's immigration laws. I have written to the State Department to urge this administration to grant Swileh's request for a ban waiver and will work with her family and federal authorities to help reunite her with her son, Abdullah. ### Previous Article 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lieu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-lieu-joins-california-members-calling-additional-federal-wildfire REP LIEU JOINS CALIFORNIA MEMBERS CALLING FOR ADDITIONAL FEDERAL WILDFIRE FUNDING 2018-12-17 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Ted Lieu L000582 lieu.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON - Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) joined Members of Congress from California to urge leadership on the Appropriations and Ways and Means Committee to include$9.054 billion and tax relief for the communities impacted by the wildfires in a disaster supplemental funding package. The supplemental funding package will assist Californians who were devastated by a string of recent wildfires in Butte, Los Angeles and Ventura counties. In the letter, the Members write: As you know, last month California was devastated by the deadliest and most destructive wildfires in our state's history. We are writing to ask that you include $9.054 billion and tax relief for the communities impacted by the wildfires as requested by the State of California in a disaster supplemental funding package. On November 12, President Trump granted a Major Disaster Declaration for the state of California as a result of the wildfires. In the previous week, the Camp, Hill, and Woolsey fires had begun, burning more than 247,000 acres and destroying more than 20,000 structures across Butte, Los Angeles, and Ventura counties. The Camp Fire became the most destructive and deadliest fire in the state's history taking the lives of more than 85 individuals, with a number of residents still unaccounted for. In Southern California, three were confirmed dead. Throughout the state thousands have been left homeless. To make matters worse, residents are now dealing with storms and resulting flooding and mudslides. We appreciate your efforts to provide assistance to California and other areas affected by major disasters in past years. As you know, on November 28, the Director of California's Office of Emergency Services wrote to Speaker Ryan, Democratic Leader Pelosi, Chairman Frelinghuysen, and Ranking Member Lowey with an initial request of $9.054 billion in disaster funding as well as tax relief for impacted communities. We strongly support this request and urge you to include it as you develop a supplemental funding package. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mikethompson.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/thompson-and-huffman-announce-federal-grant-for-sonoma-county-water-project Thompson and Huffman Announce Federal Grant for Sonoma County Water Project 2018-12-17 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Mike Thompson T000460 mikethompson.house.gov     legacy Washington Today Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-05) and Rep. Jared Huffman (CA-02) announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded more than $2.9 million to the Sonoma County Water Agency for relocation of a portion of the water supply pipeline outside a hazard zone, providing for increased resiliency to future disasters. Ensuring our community is better prepared to withstand disasters is one of my highest priorities in Congress, which is why I am proud to announce this federal funding that will shore up our water transmission systems across Sonoma County, said Thompson. Our water infrastructure must be modernized and ready to continue serving the customers who rely on it, no matter the disaster scenario. In aftermath of the catastrophic wildfires that rocked Northern California, we must do everything we can ensure our communities are as ready as possible for future disasters, said Huffman. I'm glad to announce that the Sonoma Counter Water Agency will receive this federal support to update their water infrastructure to be prepared in case of emergency. We will continue to work with local, state, and federal partners to ensure that our districts have every resource needed during the long path to recovery and resiliency. We are very grateful for this show of support from our federal partners. This project will increase the resiliency and reliability of our water transmission system, said James Gore, Chair of the Sonoma Water Board of Directors. This will help us maintain safe and reliable drinking water for our 600,000 customers in the event of an earthquake. Investing in our critical infrastructure is one of the most important services that government provides. ### Congressman Mike Thompson is proud to represent California's 5thCongressional District, which includes all or part of Contra Costa, Lake, Napa, Solano and Sonoma Counties.He is a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee. Rep. Thompson is also a member of the fiscally conservative Blue Dog Coalition and chairs the Gun Viole… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pelosi.house.gov/news/pelosi-updates/trumpshutdown #TrumpShutdown 2018-12-17 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Nancy Pelosi P000197 pelosi.house.gov     legacy Another Senseless Shutdown Republicans stillcontrolthe House, the Senate and the White House. They have both the responsibility and the power to keep government open instead of shutting down the government and hurting people in the middle of the holiday season and a time of greateconomic uncertainty. This week, before the eyes of the American people, President Trump declared that he would be proud toshut down the governmentif he cannot force American taxpayers to spend billions of dollars on an immoral, ineffective and expensive wall. Congresswoman Pelosi and Senator Schumer leaving the White House after a meeting with President Donald Trump. Photo: Andrew Harnik, Associated Press Democrats presented the President with two clear options to keep the government open: either pass the six bipartisan appropriations bills along with a one-year continuing resolution for Homeland Security bill, or pass a one-year continuing resolution for all seven remaining appropriations bills. It is President Trump's choice to accept one of those options or shut the government down. If Republicans steer our nation into a Trump Shutdown, in January the House Democratic Majority will swiftly pass the appropriation bills with a CR for Homeland Security to re-open government. Passing of Bill Newsom Paul and I wereheartbrokento learn of the passing of our dear friend, Bill Newsom. All who were privileged to know Bill knew him as a gentleman of deep principles, great modesty and exceptional generosity. His cherished friendship, long public service and dedication to the arts leave a beautiful and lasting legacy for America. The passing of Bill Newsom is a great personal and official loss for all who were fortunate enough to call him friend. May it be a comfort to Bill's children, Hilary and Governor-Elect Gavin Newsom, and his loved ones that so many grieve with and pray for them at this sad time. My office was able to assist a constituent in advocating for his full backpay amount for a period of 3 years while he was awaiting appr… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://susandavis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393009 Congresswoman Susan Davis Pushes President to Act on Climate Change 2018-12-17 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Susan Davis D000598 susandavis.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON (December 17, 2018) - Congresswoman Susan Davis (CA-53) joined House colleagues in calling on President Trump to take action to address the warnings laid out in a federal report on climate change. Known as the Fourth National Climate Assessment (NCA), the report details serious and devastating consequences unless more is done to reduce pollution and carbon emissions. Despite the level of evidence provided in the report, Trump has dismissed the findings. We ask that you heed the dire warning of the Fourth National Climate Assessment and work with us to protect the health of our planet, the Members wrote. It is the most comprehensive science-based evaluation of the consequences of climate change, the risks of inaction, and potential adaptation strategies for the United States to date. The NCA adds to the overwhelming research indicating that the consequences of inaction on climate change will be serious and swift. The full letter can be read here. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.feinstein.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3AE9A166-0915-4AC3-A27E-F40E6AC4D28A Feinstein Requests Answers on Death of Jakelin Caal Maquin 2018-12-17 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Dianne Feinstein F000062 www.feinstein.senate.gov     legacy WashingtonSenate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today requested that Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Kevin McAleenan provide a detailed explanation of the circumstances surrounding the death of Jakelin Caal Maquin and cooperate with an Inspector General investigation. Feinstein writes: The timeline and explanation provided by Border Patrol Friday evening provides no details as to what happened to the child on the bus, it does not clarify when Border Patrol was made aware of the girl's condition, nor does it explain why a helicopter was not called to take the girl directly to a hospital. Please provide a more detailed explanation of what happened, including the specific circumstances of her medical care while in Border Patrol custody and details of her initial medical screening. Please also preserve any and all evidence related to the death. Full text of the letter follows: December 17, 2018 The Honorable Kevin K. McAleenan Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Washington, DC 20229 Dear Commissioner McAleenan, I am writing to express my strong concern over the death of a 7-year-old girl, Jakelin Caal Maquin, in Customs and Border Protection custody. I am disappointed that you did not inform Congress about this tragedy, especially when I directly asked you about the treatment of children in custody at last week's oversight hearing. This death raises serious questions about the care of children by Border Patrol. According to the timeline provided by your agency, a group of 163 people, including this child, turned themselves in to Border Patrol at 9:15 PM on December 6, 2018. Reportedly, within 45 minutes, four Border Patrol Agents completed an initial screening of all 163 people. This screening was intended to identify health problems within the group. The Border Patrol timeline then indicates that agents started processing the group for transport to nearest Border Patrol station by 10:00 PM. Tragically, on arrival at the… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.harris.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-harris-statement-on-first-step-act Senator Harris Statement on FIRST STEP Act 2018-12-17 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Kamala Harris H001075 www.harris.senate.gov     legacy December 17, 2018 Senator Harris Statement on FIRST STEP Act WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Kamala D. Harris (D-CA) released the following statement today on the FIRST STEP Act: For years, we've been offered a false choice on criminal justice policy. It's a choice that suggests we are either soft' on crime or tough' on crime instead of asking: Are we smart on crime?' Americans deserve a criminal justice system that is both fair and smart. By passing the FIRST STEP Act, we can make our criminal justice system smarter. For too long, sentencing in our country has been overly severe and has disproportionately targeted communities of color especially black men. Reforming some of the most draconian federal sentencing laws, including unfair mandatory minimum sentences under two- and three-strikes laws, will make our system more just. Retroactively applying the reduced sentencing disparity between crack and powder cocaine will make our system more fair. Additionally, allowing judges greater discretion to reduce unfair sentences for low-level, nonviolent drug offenders and eliminate unjust sentencing enhancements will make our system smarter. These reforms are long overdue and I'm proud to support them. Second, we must embrace the age-old concept of redemption and offer a way back into society for offenders who are serving time. This bill does that by expanding the ability to use good time credits, and by providing people in prison with greater access to education, substance abuse treatment, and job training. It also eliminates the shackling of pregnant prisoners, requires healthcare products for incarcerated women, and ends federal juvenile solitary confinement. These are all good, smart changes that will provide dignity to those serving prison sentences and offer a path out. However, to be clear, the FIRST STEP Act is very much just that a First Step. It is a compromise of a compromise, and we ultimately need to make far greater reforms if we are to right the wrongs that exist in our criminal ju… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://eshoo.house.gov/issues/environment/eshoo-statement-on-the-departure-of-interior-secretary-ryan-zinke/ Eshoo Statement on the Departure of Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke 2018-12-16 2018 2018-12 Democrat House CA Anna Eshoo E000215 eshoo.house.gov     legacy Eshoo Statement on the Departure of Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke December 16th, 2018 Palo Alto, CA Congresswoman Anna G. Eshoo released the following statement after Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke announced he will leave the administration at the end of the year: Few cabinet secretaries have violated the public trust and used their office for such undisguised personal gain as Secretary Zinke. During his toxic tenure at the Department of the Interior, he has ignored his responsibilities to act in the public interest and shown he is willing to sell out our nation's public lands and natural resources to the highest bidder. The election of a democratic majority in the House sent a clear message to the Trump Administration that the business-as-usual dealings of the most corrupt cabinet in American history will no longer be tolerated. Yesterday's announcement is welcome news for our environment and the principle of public accountability in government. Good riddance. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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