Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
- url
- Link to the original release on the member's official site
- text
- Extracted body text (may be empty if the page could not be fetched)
- has_text
- 1 if body text was successfully extracted
- date_source
- How the publication date was determined
- bioguide_id
- Bioguide ID of the member
1,847 rows where party = "Republican", state = "FL" and year = 2018 sorted by date descending
This data as json, CSV (advanced)
| 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://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=2109DD93-364B-4502-AA5E-5393E3C20EEC | Rubio Applauds Administration Decision To Reverse DHS Guidance On The NFIP During Government Shutdown | 2018-12-28 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Miami, FL Today,U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released a statement applauding the decision by the administration to reverse new guidance issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that prevents the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) from writing or renewing National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policies during the current government shutdown. Yesterday, Rubio urged the Office of Budget Management (OMB) to reverse this decision.I am glad to see commonsense prevail in Washington. When Congress passed legislation last week to keep the NFIP operating until June 2019, our intent was clear. I thank the administration for reversing DHS actions and ensuring Floridians can continue to obtain and maintain flood insurance. I look forward to working with my colleagues to secure a long-term reauthorization of the program and much-needed reforms.Timeline of Rubio's Efforts on the National Flood Insurance Program December 27, 2018 Rubio Urges OMB To Reverse DHS Guidance On The NFIP During Government Shutdown December 21, 2018 Rubio Welcomes Passage of Bill To Extend National Flood Insurance Program November 28, 2018Rubio Comments on NFIP Reauthorization November 15, 2018 Rubio Introduces Bill to Reauthorize National Flood Insurance Program for Six Months July 31, 2018 Rubio Comments on Senate Reauthorization of National Flood Insurance Program July 25, 2018 Rubio on National Flood Insurance Program: We Should Not Hold Floridians Hostage July 18, 2018 Rubio Video Statement: We need to extend NFIP now or it will be a disaster for Florida July 18, 2018 Rubio in Tampa Bay Times: Congress Needs Long-Term Solution for Flood Insurance Program June 21, 2018 Rubio Secures Funding for FEMA Pre-disaster Mitigation and Flood Hazard Mapping and Ri… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=808C44EE-A98D-4A86-AEE7-4EDA81F930B6 | Rubio to Release Report, Hold Press Conference on 2018 Accomplishments | 2018-12-28 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Miami, FL Today, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) will release a report called Fighting for Florida detailing his legislative accomplishments during the 115th Congress. Rubio's remarks at Florida International University are open to the press and will be live streamed here at 10:00 am EST.The 15-page report, accompanied by a four and a half minute video, highlights Rubio's legislative accomplishments and provides a look at his behind the scenes efforts to influence policy in Washington. Last year, a non-partisan analysis ranked Rubio 4th out of 100 Senators for the number of bills he wrote that became law. That same analysis ranked Rubio 5th overall in Senate leadership and 6th in bipartisan support for his bills. Overall, more than two dozen bills Rubio introduced or served as the lead Republican sponsor became law over the past two years.One of my highest priorities continues to be ensuring that my staff and I are available to help Floridians with whatever federal assistance they may need,Rubio said. We have also accomplished some incredible policy victories over the last two years for Florida and for our nation.Landmark Laws: A few of the dozens of new laws are truly landmark accomplishments for Florida and the nation. In 2017, Rubio's Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Actbecame law. That same year, he successfully expanded the size of the Child Tax Credit from $1,000 to $2,000 per child, and for the first time made the first $1,400 refundable against an individual's payroll taxes. This year, Rubio secured congressional authorization and funding to construct the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Storage Reservoir to reduce Lake Okeechobee discharges to coastal communities.Leading during Crisis: From harmfu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3F68D8C5-269B-4B2D-AB4A-57B36A95778B | Rubio Urges OMB To Reverse DHS Guidance On The NFIP During Government Shutdown | 2018-12-27 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Miami, FL Today,U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released a statement following a decision by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to issue new guidance that prevents the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) from writing or renewing National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policies during the current government shutdown.Last week, I was proud to work with my colleagues to secure a six month extension of the NFIP to ensure that Floridians were able to maintain access to a program so vital to our state. However, I have been informed that DHS has now issued new guidance that prevents FEMA from writing or renewing policies during the current government shutdown. I strongly disagree with this guidance as it incorrectly interprets congressional intent demonstrated last week with Congress passing legislation to keep the program operating until June 2019.I am asking OMB to reverse DHS actions and ensure Floridians can continue to obtain and maintain flood insurance.Timeline of Rubio's Efforts on the National Flood Insurance Program December 21, 2018 Rubio Welcomes Passage of Bill To Extend National Flood Insurance Program November 28, 2018Rubio Comments on NFIP Reauthorization November 15, 2018 Rubio Introduces Bill to Reauthorize National Flood Insurance Program for Six Months July 31, 2018 Rubio Comments on Senate Reauthorization of National Flood Insurance Program July 25, 2018 Rubio on National Flood Insurance Program: We Should Not Hold Floridians Hostage July 18, 2018 Rubio Video Statement: We need to extend NFIP now or it will be a disaster for Florida July 18, 2018 Rubio in Tampa Bay Times: Congress Needs Long-Term Solution for Flood Insurance Program June 21, 2018 Rubio Secures Funding for FEMA Pre-disaster Mitigation and Flood Haza… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://gaetz.house.gov/media/press-releases/update-december-2018-partial-government-shutdown-information | ***UPDATE: December 2018 Partial Government Shutdown Information | 2018-12-22 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Matt Gaetz | G000578 | gaetz.house.gov | legacy | The Senate's refusal to pass a funding bill with border security funds make it look more and more like we are heading for a shutdown. If this happens, it will only be a partial shutdown, because 3/4 of the government has already been funded.The Department of Defense has already been funded for the entire year, so military personnel and operations will be unaffected by the shutdown. Several of you have contacted my office to ask about national parks, like Gulf Islands National Seashore.Unlike shutdowns in previous years, national parks are expected to remain OPEN though they will not be staffed by personnel, and the facilities (like restrooms and visitor centers) will be closed. The House and Senate have both passed an extension of the National Flood Insurance Program until May 2019, so, pending President Trump's signature, flood insurance coverage will not lapse. Here are how other agencies and departments will be affected (or not) by the shutdown: Mail will continue as usual Social Security checks will be mailed as usual Medicare and Medicaid coverage will continue like normal TSA agents will still work, and flights will stay on schedule HUD housing voucher payments will continue HUD grants will continue Ginnie Mae will continue to guarantee mortgage securities The Federal Housing Administration will slow its loan processing and approval; new loan applications may be paused EPA emergency cleanup projects will continue USDA will continue to inspect meat, poultry, and eggs Federal courts will remain open (for about three weeks, but by that point the shutdown should be resolved) Railroad inspectors will continue to work Amtrak will continue to run Highway toll booths, because they are primarily staffed by state employees, will continue normal operations My Congressional office will continue to process casework and constituent requests. For more information about national parks, seehereand here. For more information about agencies affected by the shutdown, seehereandhere. The House is scheduled to be… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://buchanan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/buchanan-refuses-paycheck-during-government-shutdown | Buchanan Refuses Paycheck During Government Shutdown | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Vern Buchanan | B001260 | buchanan.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON Congressman Vern Buchanan today informed House Chief Administrative Officer Philip Kiko that he would be refusing his congressional salary as long as the government remains shut down. I will refuse to accept any paychecks for as long as the federal government remains shuttered, said Buchanan. This is yet another sad example of Washington's dysfunction and inability to compromise. The full text of the letter is below: Dear Mr. Kiko, Congress has no responsibility more fundamental than to fund the day-to-day operations of the federal government. However, despite a government shutdown and a lapse in appropriations, members of Congress will continue receiving their salary. Therefore, I will refuse to accept any paychecks for as long as the federal government remains shuttered. This is yet another sad example of Washington's dysfunction and inability to compromise. I hope leaders from both parties will stay at the table and reach a bipartisan accord. Respectfully, Vern Buchanan Member of Congress | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://gaetz.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-first-step-act-rep-gaetz-amendment-0 | House Passes FIRST STEP Act with Rep. Gaetz Amendment | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Matt Gaetz | G000578 | gaetz.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, by a vote of 358-36, the U.S. House of Representatives passed S. 756, the First Step Act, comprehensive prison reform legislation that lowers recidivism rates by prisoners through rehabilitation.The bill includes language initially offered as an amendment by Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01), implementing youth mentorship and dog training programs in at least 20 federal prisons for 5 years. In the initial version of the bill, these programs were limited to ten prisons over two years. In mentorship programs, young inmates are paired with volunteers from faith-based or community organizations, as well as former inmates. In dog training programs, inmates train dogs from basic obedience skills, to skills required to be a service or therapy dog. The far-reaching legislation is the most significant overhaul of America's criminal justice system in a generation, and has been strongly supported by President Trump, Jared Kushner, and Lara Trump. Having already passed the Senate, the First Step Act will now go to President Trump for his signature. Following the passage of the First Step Act, Rep. Gaetz issued the following statement: I am proud that the Congress passed the First Step Act, and even happier that the bill received such widespread bipartisan support. This bill makes tremendous strides to improve America's prison system, helping keep prisoners from returning to a life of crime upon their release. The most important step in preventing recidivism is teaching prisoners how to become productive members of society. President Trump has shown great interest in the rehabilitation of prisoners, and this compassionate and important bill will be remembered as one of the greatest achievements of his presidency. I look forward him signing the First Step Act into law. Lara Trump, President Trump's daughter-in-law, has been a long-time advocate for prison reform and dog programs. In 2017, she was instrumental in leading a meeting of political leaders and Cabinet members to advocate for pets for vets progr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mast.house.gov/press-releases?ID=359C0D66-64EE-4735-BEBA-19E26BDDD23E | Congress Passes Bill Renaming Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge After Nathaniel Reed | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Brian Mast | M001199 | mast.house.gov | legacy | Stuart, Fla. Today the United States House of Representatives passed legislation to rename the Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge after Nathaniel Nat Reed, who passed away in July. The renaming follows a successful effort by Rep. Mast to increase the size of Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge to protect additional land and endangered species. Nathaniel Reed is a man I was proud to know and one of the most influential environmental leaders, Rep. Mast said. Nat always ended every phone call by sending his sincerest best wishes. Today, we send him our sincerest and remember his unwavering commitment to America's Everglades and his service to our nation. Reed, who was 84 when he passed away, was a well-known and respected champion of restoring the Everglades. An environmentalist who led conservation fights throughout the United States, Reed's legacy includes protecting Big Cypress Swamp and successfully guiding the Endangered Species Act of 1973 into law. Both bills were supported in the Senate by Senators Marco Rubio (FL) and Bill Nelson (FL). Rep. Mast spoke on the House Floor shortly following Reed's passing to honor his legacy. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0A06848F-4BFC-4357-989D-A09FB5175E63 | Rubio Welcomes Passage of Bill To Extend National Flood Insurance Program | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. Today,U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) welcomed the House of Representative's passage of a six month extension of the National Flood Insurance Program. Last month, Senators Rubio and John Kennedy (R-LA) introduced legislation in the Senate to extend the program.Extending the NFIP for six months is good news for millions of Floridians. Congress must now use this time to come to a bipartisan and bicameral consensus that ensures the program is affordable and sustainable. I urge President Trump to quickly sign this important extension into law.Timeline of Rubio's Efforts on the National Flood Insurance Program November 28, 2018Rubio Comments on NFIP Reauthorization November 15, 2018 Rubio Introduces Bill to Reauthorize National Flood Insurance Program for Six Months July 31, 2018 Rubio Comments on Senate Reauthorization of National Flood Insurance Program July 25, 2018 Rubio on National Flood Insurance Program: We Should Not Hold Floridians Hostage July 18, 2018 Rubio Video Statement: We need to extend NFIP now or it will be a disaster for Florida July 18, 2018 Rubio in Tampa Bay Times: Congress Needs Long-Term Solution for Flood Insurance Program June 21, 2018 Rubio Secures Funding for FEMA Pre-disaster Mitigation and Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Analysis Programs in Appropriations Bill June 13, 2017 Rubio, Menendez, Colleagues Lead Bipartisan Flood Insurance Reform Bill June 13, 2017 Rubio in Wall Street Journal: A bipartisan plan for Flood Insurance February 28, 2017 Rubio Meets with Florida Legislative Leaders to Discuss Federal-State Issues, Including The National Flood Insurance Program | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0CA40B37-0260-49D4-9E96-7A76E7C37E68 | Rubio, Chabot Bill to Protect Girls' Access to Education Heads To President's Desk | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) and U.S. Representative Steve Chabot (R-OH) today welcomed the House passage of the Protecting Girls' Access to Education in Vulnerable Settings Act, bicameral legislation they introduced to ensure children overseas who are displaced due to ongoing conflicts have access to a quality basic education. They previously worked together to pass the Girls Count Act, legislation to direct current U.S. foreign assistance programming to support the rights of women and girls in developing countries by working to establish birth registries in their countries.Rubio introduced the Senate version of the Protecting Girls' Access to Education in Vulnerable Settings Act with Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) in July 2017. Millions of people are displaced globally due to ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises leaving children, particularly girls, vulnerable and unable to access a quality basic education. Education is critical to ensuring children have an opportunity to succeed and contribute to their communities, Rubio said. I hope President Trump will sign our bill quickly and solidify U.S. commitments to ensuring that all children have access to a primary or secondary education, whatever their gender and wherever they live. "As a father, grandfather and former teacher, I am pleased to see this important bipartisan legislation is on its way to becoming law, Chabot said. Members from both parties, and both chambers, came together to make sure that girls around the world, displaced by conflicts, have the opportunity to receive an education. I introduced this legislation, because education puts girls on the path to success, and helps protect them from trafficking, child marriage, and poverty. And by prioritizing education in our… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0F5715F3-5484-46A9-8854-E5EB7B4A3F2E | Rubio, Colleagues Express Continued Concern Amid Growing Crisis in Nicaragua | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Miami, FL-U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined Senators Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ben Cardin (D-MD) and U.S. Representative Albio Sires (D-NJ)in expressing continued concern amid the growing crisis in Nicaragua. Following the release of a new report by theInter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), the legislators urgedSecretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS) Luis Almagro towork with the member states of the OAS Permanent Council and publicly recognize the recommendations of theIACHRreport as the Ortega regime continues its attacks on civil society and the media. Thefull text of the letteris below. Dear Secretary General Almagro, We write with continued concern about the deterioration of democratic institutions and the rule of law in Nicaragua, particularly in the wake of recent efforts by the government of Daniel Ortega to silence civil society and independent media outlets. The release of a new report by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) provides further evidence that Nicaraguan police and security services used excessive force to put down widespread protests this year and that the Ortega government has abused power to create a climate of impunity. During the last week, Nicaraguan police forces raided the offices of leading civil society organizations including the Nicaraguan Center for Human Rights (CENIDH), the Center for Investigation of Communications (CINCO), Hagamos Democracia, and the Institute for Strategic Studies and Public Policies (IEEPP) and stripped them of their right to operate legally. Nicaraguan police also seized and occupied the headquarters of leading independent media outlet, Confidencial. The Ortega government, citing a hastily-passed set of recent laws that categorize virtually any form of protest as terrorism, claimed without proof that the organizations had actively participated in terrorist acts, hate crimes, and a failed coup attempt. This week's IACHR report, which reflects the work of th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=BE924E0C-C0B3-4397-9B77-B46C19007475 | Rubio Urges DOD To Headquarter US Space Command in Florida | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) urged U.S. Secretary of Defense James Mattis to headquarter U.S. Space Command (USSPACECOM) in Florida, given the extensive history the state has as the U.S. gateway to the stars. Rubio also expressed his support for the reestablishment of USSPACECOM, which will be essential to U.S. national security and to deter adversary attacks against U.S. space systems. The full text of the letter is below:Dear Secretary Mattis: This letter is to express my support for the reestablishment of a U.S. Space Command (USSPACECOM) under Air Force leadership in order to keep the United States as the global leader in this crucial and rapidly evolving domain. Establishing a Space Command reflects the value of space contributions to national security, the evolution of the threats to U.S. space systems, and the importance of deterring adversaries from attacking U.S. space systems.In 1950, Cape Canaveral, Florida, launched its first rocket, reaching an altitude of nearly 250 miles. Since then, Florida has been the epicenter of space, launching the first American suborbital flight and the first American to orbit Earth. Years after those monumental programs, it was in Florida where the most powerful rocket ever built, ignited, sending humans towards the heavens, to step foot on the moon. For thirty years, the space shuttle ferried astronauts from Cape Canaveral. Today, Florida's space coast continues to lead the world in space. U.S. Space Command will be essential to American national security through the acceleration of space capabilities to defend our national interests and deter our adversaries. As you begin the process of identifying leadership and the location for the headquarters, I urge you to headquarter USSPACECOM i… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=CED1DBB5-270C-46FC-934F-6C24B9B5B735 | Rubio Welcomes Passage Of Bill To Rename Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge In Honor of Nathaniel Reed | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) welcomed the House of Representative's passage of his and Senator Bill Nelson's (D-FL) bipartisan bill to rename the Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge in Martin County, Florida after one of the state's most renowned environmental champions, Nathaniel Nat Reed. Reed, who passed away in July at the age of 84, was a well-known and respected champion of restoring Florida's Everglades. Reed's legacy includes protecting Big Cypress Swamp and successfully guiding the Endangered Species Act of 1973 through Congress and into law. The bill passed the Senate unanimously on December 19, 2018. It now heads to the President for signature. A well-known and widely respected conservationist who championed Everglades restoration, Nat Reed was instrumental in advocating for state and national environmental policy. It is a fitting tribute that the Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge, where his passion for nature was first inspired, be named in his honor. In September, Senators Rubio and Bill Nelson (D-FL) introduced legislation to rename the Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge in Martin County, Florida after Nathaniel Nat Reed. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://buchanan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congress-passes-buchanan-backed-bill-combat-red-tide | Congress Passes Buchanan-Backed Bill to Combat Red Tide | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Vern Buchanan | B001260 | buchanan.house.gov | legacy | Legislation Provides $100 Million to Address Harmful Algal Blooms Now Heads to President's Desk WASHINGTON Congressman Vern Buchanan today applauded House passage of bipartisan legislation to combat the devastating impact of Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs), including red tide. The bill now heads to President Trump for his signature. Red tide has plagued our local economy, environment, and way of life, Buchanan said. I urge the president to swiftly sign this bill into law. Buchanan, co-chair of the Florida congressional delegation, continued, red tide is a problem that requires more research and development of cutting-edge technologies to mitigate its damaging effects. TheHarmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments Act of 2017 was included in the legislation passed today by Congress, providing more than $100 million to combat HABs like red tide. It also establishes a process to declare an Event of National Significance. That declaration would trigger disaster-like funding for affected communities. The bill also reauthorizes the Harmful Algal Bloom Federal Interagency Task Force; formally adds the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to the task force; and permits private donations to be used to fund recovery for events of national significance. Harmful algae blooms cause $82 million in economic losses to the seafood, restaurant and tourism industries each year in the United States, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Buchanan co-sponsored nearly identical bipartisan legislation in the House (H.R. 4417) and earlier this summer led a letter with Rep. Alcee Hastings (D-Fla.)urging House leadership to immediately bring this legislation to the floor for a vote. Buchanan and Hastings are co-chairs of the 29-member Florida congressional delegation. Separate legislation signed into law earlier this year included Buchanan's proposal to provide NOAA with an additional $8 million to reduce the threat of algal blooms, including red tide. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://gaetz.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-matt-gaetz-applauds-passage-spending-bill-funds-border-wall | Congressman Matt Gaetz Applauds Passage of Spending Bill That Funds Border Wall | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Matt Gaetz | G000578 | gaetz.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. By a vote of 217185, the House tonight passed H.R. 695, a funding bill that prevents a partial government shutdown and offers extensive relief to communities impacted by hurricanes. Most significantly, it provides $5 billion in funding for a border wall the complete amount requested by President Trump. Following the passage of H.R. 695, Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) issued the following statement: While I am normally reluctant to support short-term government funding bills, I was proud to vote for H.R. 695. This bill includes much-needed disaster aid for areas impacted by hurricanes and wildfires. Hurricane Michael was damaging to Northwest Florida, with widespread devastation in places like Panama City. While the disaster relief provisions of the bill are immensely valuable, the bill is also important because it finally delivers on President Trump's top priority: the construction of a wall along our southern border. A border wall will keep America safe from external threats, and will restore America's belief in the rule of law. Illegal immigration costs America a tremendous amount of money even very conservative estimates place the cost at over a hundred billion dollars per year. These costs come in the form of government programs and benefits (like education and healthcare), and are never reimbursed because most illegal immigrants pay no income taxes. Illegal immigration costs America in other ways, too from lost jobs and lower wages, to the social costs of drugs, gang violence, and increased crime rates. Even though illegal immigration has decreased under President Trump, our borders remain porous and easily-crossed, and illegal immigration still poses a significant threat to America. While America is a nation of laws, it is also a nation of compassion, a sentiment that is also reflected in this funding bill. With nearly $8 billion in dedicated disaster relief funding, this bill will help restore the communities ravaged by hurricanes, wildfires, and other natural disasters. H.R. 695 ensures that t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://gaetz.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-first-step-act-rep-gaetz-amendment | House Passes FIRST STEP Act with Rep. Gaetz Amendment | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Matt Gaetz | G000578 | gaetz.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, by a vote of 358-36, the U.S. House of Representatives passed S. 756, the First Step Act, comprehensive prison reform legislation that lowers recidivism rates by prisoners through rehabilitation.The bill includes language initially offered as an amendment by Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01), implementing youth mentorship and dog training programs in at least 20 federal prisons for 5 years. In the initial version of the bill, these programs were limited to ten prisons over two years. In mentorship programs, young inmates are paired with volunteers from faith-based or community organizations, as well as former inmates. In dog training programs, inmates train dogs from basic obedience skills, to skills required to be a service or therapy dog. The far-reaching legislation is the most significant overhaul of America's criminal justice system in a generation, and has been strongly supported by President Trump, Jared Kushner, and Lara Trump. Having already passed the Senate, the First Step Act will now go to President Trump for his signature. Following the passage of the First Step Act, Rep. Gaetz issued the following statement: I am proud that the Congress passed the First Step Act, and even happier that the bill received such widespread bipartisan support. This bill makes tremendous strides to improve America's prison system, helping keep prisoners from returning to a life of crime upon their release. The most important step in preventing recidivism is teaching prisoners how to become productive members of society. President Trump has shown great interest in the rehabilitation of prisoners, and this compassionate and important bill will be remembered as one of the greatest achievements of his presidency. I look forward him signing the First Step Act into law. Lara Trump, President Trump's daughter-in-law, has been a long-time advocate for prison reform and dog programs. In 2017, she was instrumental in leading a meeting of political leaders and Cabinet members to advocate for pets for vet… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-applauds-signing-of-nica-act | Diaz-Balart Applauds Signing of NICA Act | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement after participating in the bill signing of H.R. 1918, the Nicaraguan Investment and Conditionality Act (NICA). Diaz-Balart, an original co-sponsor of the legislation, has ardently supported sanctions against members of Daniel Ortega's regime. After swift passage in Congress of the NICA Act and its signing into law, the United States once again stands in strong solidarity with those seeking freedom from tyranny. This bill provides the President with additional authority to impose tough sanctions on operatives of the Ortega regime, and cuts off resources to the regime as well as providing sanctions against countries that assist it. Since April, the people of Nicaragua have taken to the streets to denounce the oppression and violence carried out by Ortega and his thugs. This important legislation supports the Nicaraguan people in their demands for rule of law, human rights, and free, fair elections by denying resources to their oppressors. I am proud to stand with Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen as the President signs the NICA Act into law. I commend her leadership on this crucial legislation, and so many other bills and issues that she has championed during her three decades in Congress. She leaves behind a remarkable legacy of tireless advocacy, trailblazing leadership, and commitment to our Southern Florida community. She has a long record of standing up for freedom and democracy in the world's most oppressed countries. I am profoundly grateful to have worked with her on so many issues that are close to both of our hearts. She will be sorely missed in the halls of the United States Congress. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mast.house.gov/press-releases?ID=5693D215-52F0-4E8F-9837-DC2F120E368D | Mast’s Legislation Devoting More Federal Resources To Combat Toxic Algae Passes Congress | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Brian Mast | M001199 | mast.house.gov | legacy | Stuart, Fla. U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (FL-18) today secured the passage of bipartisan legislation devoting more federal resources to combat toxic algae. Building off of his Federal Do No Harm Act, the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Act of 2018 will make federal funding available to communities impacted by harmful algal blooms and ensure the continuation of a federal program aimed at combating harmful algal blooms. The federal government, through the Army Corps of Engineers, has played a huge role in perpetuating the human health crisis caused by Lake Okeechobee discharges and they need to take responsibility for the damage by helping to pay for the cleanup, Rep. Mast said. More than that, the government needs to stop prioritizing special interests over human health and put an end to the crisis once and for all. This bipartisan bill will help deliver the federal resources needed to end this environmental disaster. In 2016, the State of Florida requested federal assistance related to algal blooms multiple times and was denied. This year, Governor Rick Scott again declared a State of Emergency, and Rep. Mast called on the federal government to provide assistance. This bill will build on several bipartisan efforts, including by Rep. Mast and Senator Bill Nelson (FL), to ensure that federal resources are available by authorizing the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to declare a HAB of Significance when it will have a detrimental impact on a state's environment, economy, subsistence use or public health. This declaration will authorize the federal government to make federal funding available to state or local governments for the assessment and mitigation of harmful algal blooms. Additionally, the legislation will: Reauthorize the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Act (the major federal program that does research and mitigation work on harmful algal blooms) for 5 years. Expand grant eligibility to incl… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/fighting-for-florida?ContentRecord_id=BB407031-87FE-45F0-B73A-913198CFD597 | Rubio Demands Answers From Owners Of Glorieta Gardens For Slum-like Living Conditions | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Miami, FL Today, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) requested Glorieta Partners, Ltd., to provide his office with a detailed explanation as to how they spent $24 million in tax-exempt bonds and additional revenue generated from increasing rents on tenants, which were intended to finance a rehabilitation of the Glorieta Gardens Apartments. This request stems from constituent complaints, and Rubio staff visits, that the apartments are in unsanitary conditions, with mold, sewage leaks, and shoddy maintenance. In addition, Rubio urged Glorieta Partners to request a Section-8 pass-through lease from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) so that tenants may immediately receive relocation assistance. Background on Rubio's efforts to keep low-income housing tenants safe can be found here.The full text of the letter is below. Dear Mr. Weiss: It has come to my attention, that in 2017, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) approved the ability for you to increase the rents on your tenants by up to 20 percent as a condition of Glorieta Gardens' alleged $16 million rehabilitation. It has also been brought to my attention that while you collected about $8 million in contractor and developer fees, this rehabilitation was not in fact completed. You may be aware that my staff recently visited your property, and witnessed residential apartments with thick layers of mold, sewage leaking into kitchens, and corroded pipes. Tenants complained that they received what they believed to be new appliances, but did not work. They also stated that workers painted over the rust and mold that covers their walls, and were assured by management that a state of the art security camera system would be installed. However, no such security system is on the property, despite the fact that violent crime and drive-by shootings remain prevalent. This week, I asked HUD and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to conduct an investigation into your affordable housing business practices. Should they request addi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=42BD8B37-3B0E-4B48-B087-BE56879B352B | Sens. Rubio, Graham, Shaheen, King, Cotton, Ernst Urge Trump Administration to Reconsider Withdrawing U.S. Forces from Syria | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Miami, FL U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Angus King (I-ME), Tom Cotton (R-AR), and Joni Ernst (R-IA) in sending a letter to President Donald Trump expressing their concern regarding the consideration to withdraw U.S. forces from Syria.The full text of the letter is below.Dear Mr. President:We write today to express our concern regarding your Administration's consideration to withdraw U.S. forces from Syria. We believe that such action at this time is a premature and costly mistake that not only threatens the safety and security of the United States, but also emboldens ISIS, Bashar al Assad, Iran, and Russia.The United States currently retains a small and limited military presence within Syria. The approximately 2,000 American troops stationed in Syria serve as a vital shield against ISIS cells operating within Northeast Syria. While you believe the threat of ISIS has dissipated, the conditions on the ground paint a very different picture.In addition, our troops provide critical support for our Kurdish partners, who have been crucial in the fight against ISIS. If our Kurdish partners in the region lose the support of the United States, we run the risk of a resurgence of ISIS and the possible capitulation or all out destruction of Kurdish resistance in the region.Furthermore, hundreds of foreign fighters being held in captivity by our Kurdish partners are at risk of being released or worse if our support is withdrawn.If you decide to follow through with your decision to pull our troops out of Syria, any remnants of ISIS in Syria will surely renew and embolden their efforts in the region. However, ISIS is not the only threat. The brutal dictatorship of Bashar al Assad continues to weigh heavily … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=50912E71-CA2E-4ADA-954D-B71076D26546 | Rubio Welcomes Decision By Administration, Allies to Pursue Charges Against Chinese Government Hackers | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Miami, FL U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Chairman of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), released a statement following reports that the Administration is pursuing charges against Chinese hackers directly associated with the Ministry of State Security: I commend the Administration for pursuing charges against Chinese government hackers. Regardless of any past commitment, China's intelligence services have continued brazen attempts to steal the intellectual property of American companies in an effort to continue to exploit the technological gains of others and fuel the goals of the Chinese Communist Party. The United States must lead like-minded countries to counter the Chinese government's lawless cyberaggression. We must understand that this is part of China's strategic effort to supplant and undermine America's economic and global leadership. The United States must continue using all tools, including military alliances, law enforcement, sanctions and other pressure, to end China's growing threat to our national and economic security. How we confront China is the single most important geopolitical issue of our time.Background: China's theft of U.S. intellectual propertycosts our nation alone nearly $600 billionper yeareconomic damages that exceedthe total profits of the top 50 companies onlast year's Fortune 500 list. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=CAB80072-380A-4BE4-B8F3-CF9759E8E603 | Senators Rubio, Markey, Collins, Cardin and Merkley Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Condemning Atrocities Against Rohingya in Burma | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington D.C. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Ben Cardin (D-MD), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) today introduced a bipartisan resolution that highlights the horrific acts of violence against the Rohingya people in Burma. Underscoring the ongoing humanitarian crisis that followed the brutal crackdown by Burmese security elements in Rohingya communities in 2017, the resolution calls for Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to make a determination on whether these crimes constitute genocide. Earlier this month, the Public International Law and Policy Group released a report detailing the atrocities and calling for tribunals for those responsible for the genocide. And an August United Nations report found that Myanmar's military carried out mass killings and gang rapes of Rohingyas with genocidal intent and made the case for prosecuting its commander-in-chief and five generals under international law. The Trump administration has yet to label the crimes against the Rohingya a genocide, instead calling it ethnic cleansing. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=D040C39B-A593-46CF-8E4E-F63609A8C265 | English/Espaol: Rubio, Smith Comment on Recent Developments of the Bitkov Case | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Miami, FL U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Chairman of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere, Transnational Crime, Civilian Security, Democracy, Human Rights, and Global Women's Issues, and Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Global Human Rights and International Organizations, released the following statement on the impending verdict in the trial of Igor Bitkov in Guatemala: In April of this year, we learned about the plight of the Bitkov family in Guatemala and their highly unjust imprisonment that was orchestrated by CICIG. This case exemplifies Russia's interference in international organizations and internal Guatemalan affairs. Our concerns were so great that a decision was taken to suspend US Government funding to CICIG. The Bitkov family was subsequently released from prison and apparently vindicated after the Constitutional Court ruled in their favor. US Government funding to CICIG was restored in September. It is now alarming to learn that CICIG and the Guatemalan prosecutors are now re-trying Igor Bitkov on the same questionable charges. We understand that the presiding judge is due to deliver her verdict tomorrow. CICIG and the prosecutors have recommended that Igor Bitkov serve another 14 years in jail followed by expulsion to Russia. If this sentence materializes, we will look at all available tools to rectify such a grave injustice. In May 2018, Rubio placed a hold on U.S. funds to International Commission on Impunity in Guatemala (CICIG). RUBIO, REPRESENTANTE SMITH COMENTAN SOBRE DESARROLLOS RECIENTES DEL CASO BITKOV Miami, FL El senador estadounidense Marco Rubio (R-FL), Presidente del Subcomit de Relaciones Exteriores para el Hemisferio Occidental, Delincuencia Transnacional, Seguridad Civil, Democracia, Derechos Humanos y Asuntos Globales de la Mujer, y el Representante Chris Smith (R-NJ), Presidente del Subcomit de Derechos Humanos Globales y Organizaciones Internacionales del Comit de Asuntos Exteriores de… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=E1875688-DC78-4CAB-8AC4-2D4D45F9BC9E | Rubio Demands Answers From Owners Of Glorieta Gardens For Slum-like Living Conditions | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Miami, FL Today, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) requested Glorieta Partners, Ltd., to provide his office with a detailed explanation as to how they spent $24 million in tax-exempt bonds and additional revenue generated from increasing rents on tenants, which were intended to finance a rehabilitation of the Glorieta Gardens Apartments. This request stems from constituent complaints, and Rubio staff visits, that the apartments are in unsanitary conditions, with mold, sewage leaks, and shoddy maintenance. In addition, Rubio urged Glorieta Partners to request a Section-8 pass-through lease from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) so that tenants may immediately receive relocation assistance. Background on Rubio's efforts to keep low-income housing tenants safe can be found here.The full text of the letter is below. Dear Mr. Weiss: It has come to my attention, that in 2017, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) approved the ability for you to increase the rents on your tenants by up to 20 percent as a condition of Glorieta Gardens' alleged $16 million rehabilitation. It has also been brought to my attention that while you collected about $8 million in contractor and developer fees, this rehabilitation was not in fact completed. You may be aware that my staff recently visited your property, and witnessed residential apartments with thick layers of mold, sewage leaking into kitchens, and corroded pipes. Tenants complained that they received what they believed to be new appliances, but did not work. They also stated that workers painted over the rust and mold that covers their walls, and were assured by management that a state of the art security camera system would be installed. However, no such security system is on the property, despite the fact that violent crime and drive-by shootings remain prevalent. This week, I asked HUD and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to conduct an investigation into your affordable housing business practices. Should they request addi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://yoho.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/yoho-votes-in-favor-of-border-security | Yoho Votes in Favor of Border Security | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ted Yoho | Y000065 | yoho.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. - Congressman Ted S. Yoho (R-FL-03) released the following statement after voting to keep the government open and fund border security: I applaud our leadership for finally bringing border security to the floor. After weeks of negotiations with my Republican colleagues and the Trump Administration, we in the House took the proper step of amending the Continuing Resolution that the Senate passed last night and adding funding for a secured border and disaster relief. These additions are hugely important to my constituents back home and to the citizens across this great nation. It is clear to me that my colleagues on the other side of the aisle are placing politics over security. It is unacceptable that national security is being used as a bargaining chip when we all agree that securing our borders is what every American needs and wants. The first job of the federal government is to provide for the national defense. Securing our border is national defense. Additionally, this bill contains $7.8 billion in relief to address disasters like Hurricane Michael which hit Florida earlier this year. My colleagues and I have worked for months after this terrible storm destroyed lives and livelihoods throughout the South in order to secure the finding that is in this bill today. We have done our job in the House. Now it is time for Senate Democrats to do theirs. Fund border security and fund disaster relief. This is not the time to simply kick the can down to road for a future Congress to handle. Do the jobs you were elected to do. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-bill-help-heart-patients-headed-president-s-desk | Bilirakis Bill to Help Heart Patients Headed to the Presidents Desk | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Gus Bilirakis | B001257 | bilirakis.house.gov | legacy | Tonight the Senate-amended version of the Congenital Heart Futures Reauthorization Act sponsored by Congressman Gus Bilirakis passed the House of Representatives. The bill is now headed to the President's desk to become law, and will mark the 26th bill authored by Bilirakis to become law since 2015. This important legislation addresses the need to invest in continued research to assist the millions of Americans living with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD). It is estimated that there are currently between 2-3 million adults and children living in the United States with CHD, and nearly 1 in every 100 babies are born with a CHD. Sadly, five percent of these babies will not live to see their first birthdays. However, due to recent advancements in technology, CHD patients are surviving longer.This legislation seeks to build upon that success by ensuring continued investment in surveillance research to assess the lifelong needs of individuals with CHD. These surveillance efforts will help improve understanding of CHD across the lifespan, from birth to adulthood.The bill had originally passed the House in February of 2018, but only cleared the Senate this month. In addition, the legislation emphasizes the need for continued biomedical research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of CHD. NIH will further research the causes of congenital heart defects, including genetic causes, and study long-term outcomes in individuals with CHD of all ages. NIH will also study data to identify effective treatments and outcomes, and identify barriers to lifelong care for individuals with congenital heart defects. CHD is a true public health issue that does not discriminate by race, gender, or socio-economic status. The road ahead may be scary and uncertain for any parent with a newborn who has CHD, but this meaningful legislation gives hope to those coping with the diagnosis. It will also expand the infrastructure to track the epidemiology of congenital heart defects. For the sake of tho… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://buchanan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/buchanan-slams-va-shocking-neglect-suicidal-vets | Buchanan Slams VA for Shocking Neglect of Suicidal Vets | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Vern Buchanan | B001260 | buchanan.house.gov | legacy | Agency Fails to Spend Millions Allocated for Suicide Prevention Congressman Demands Answers from VA Secretary WASHINGTON Congressman Vern Buchanan today demanded answers from Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Robert Wilkie after a government watchdog reported that the agency failed to spend millions of dollars allocated for suicide prevention efforts in 2018. In his letter to Secretary Wilkie, Buchanan cited a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report that said of the $6.2 million set aside for suicide prevention outreach in 2018, [his] department somehow only managed to spend $57,000, or less than 1 percent of the total funding allocated for this purpose. Furthermore, social media outreach on behalf of the VA regarding suicide prevention sharply declined by more than two-thirds compared to last year and zero public outreach messages were aired nationally for over a year. Buchanan's letter called the findings, unacceptable and disgraceful to the millions of veterans nationwide who put their lives on the line protecting our freedom. His letter further stated that reducing the veteran suiciderate is one of his top priorities and that he will be introducing legislation in Congress to address these problems as soon as possible. In the meantime, however, [Buchanan] respectfully request[s] a written response before the 116th Congress commences on January 3rd, 2019 as to how these failures were allowed to take place and what [Secretary Wilkie] will be doing going forward to ensure that they do not occur again on [his] watch. The full text of the letter is below: Dear Secretary Wilkie, I am writing to you today in the wake of a shocking new report which revealed that the Dept. of Veterans Affairs (VA) has failed to spend millions of dollars specifically allocated by Congress for veteran suicide prevention outreach. As you are undoubtedly aware, an astonishing 20 veterans a day commit suicide, accounting for 18 percent of all suicides nationwide. Among veterans younger than 35, the number of suicides has… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mast.house.gov/press-releases?ID=F4828A74-B4E8-4643-AEC0-79A2C74A44DE | Mast, More Than 60 Bipartisan Members Lobby Administration To Prioritize Harmful Algal Bloom Prevention | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Brian Mast | M001199 | mast.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Representatives Brian Mast (FL-18), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Dave Joyce (OH-14) and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) wrote a letter to Office of Management and Budget Director Mick Mulvaney urging the Trump Administration to fully fund all programs related to addressing harmful algal blooms in the upcoming Fiscal Year 2020 budget. We write to respectfully request that you allocate robust funding in the President's Fiscal Year 2020 budget request for programs that address a widespread and ever-increasing problem: toxic algal blooms, also called harmful algal blooms (HABs), the Members wrote. Toxic algae affect marine, coastal, estuarine, and freshwater systems in all 50 states and all U.S. territories. A strong investment in programs that address toxic algae will help protect economic activity, the health of millions of Americans, and our environment. The letter, which was signed by a bipartisan group of 61 members, prominently features the destruction being caused by discharges from Lake Okeechobee: Toxic blue-green algae originating in Lake Okeechobee in Florida has fouled rivers and inland waterways leading to both coasts, wreaking havoc on the state's tourism industry and threatening public health, the Members continued. This toxic bloom remains a continued threat to drinking water and commercial and recreational uses of waterways. Read the full letter here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=6FD9E4AC-4F1C-468D-925B-C4BECC39C4CE | Rubio, Menendez lead Bipartisan Call for Secretary Pompeo to Formally Determine Rohingya Crisis a Genocide | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Susan Collins (R-ME), Ed Markey, (D-MA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) wrote a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo asking his agency to formally determine if the Burmese military's campaign of violence against the Rohingya people constitutes a genocide. In their letter, the Senators expressed concern that even after the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the State Department's own contractors described the situation as a genocide, the State Department has still not made the important legal determination.Refusal to formally determine that this situation constitutes genocide in light of the available evidence would leave an indelible stain on our nation's legacy of promoting and advancing human rights, dignity, and accountability, wrote the Senators. It would also deny truth-telling and accountability for the thousands of Rohingya who have been terrorized by the Burmese military's brutal actions.The full text of the letter is below:Dear Mr. Secretary,We commend the State Department for its work to document atrocities and provide humanitarian assistance to the Rohingya, following atrocities committed against them by the Burmese military and security forces in Rakhine State. However, we are deeply concerned that despite clear evidence of genocide amassed by the Department's own reportalongside the findings of numerous credible non-governmental organizations, including the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museumthat the Department has not made a formal determination that the crime of genocide has been committed. The definition of genocide includes killing or causing serious bodily or mental harm to a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group with th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=A0069109-54CC-40C3-AA08-CABEE46B9DC0 | Rubio Statement On U.S. Withdrawal of Troops From Syria | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released a statement today following reports that the administration is planning a full and rapid withdrawal from Syria: The decision to pull U.S. defense presence out of Syria is a big mistake. The Syrian Democratic Forces and YPG will now abandon the fight against ISIS in the Middle Euphrates River Valley. Iran will step up activity in Southern Syria, which will elicit increased Israeli strikes that could lead to a new and far deadlier Israel-Hezbollah war. And our adversaries will use this as evidence that America is an unreliable partner. Today's decision will lead to grave consequences in the months and years to come. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=AB9F62A2-4391-407A-BF61-611D94ACA502 | Rubio, Markey, Sherman, & Messer Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Thwart Saudi Arabias Nuclear Weapons Ambitions | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Edward J. Markey (D-DE) 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.The United States should suspend all talks related to a civil nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia until the Saudi government agrees to the Gold Standard' requirements and p… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/fighting-for-florida?ContentRecord_id=B078F333-B4DC-4A9B-BDA4-9157E9F474C0 | Rubio's Efforts To Keep Low Income Housing Tenants Safe | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Fighting for Florida Rubio's Efforts To Keep Low Income Housing Tenants Safe:Legislation Introduced May 19, 2016 The Senate passed legislation that includedthree Rubio amendmentsto improve the U.S. Department of Urban Development's oversight of public housing projects. July 14, 2016 Rubio and Nelson filed a bill to hold slumlords accountablefor poor conditions. July 18, 2018 Rubio joined Senators Young, Cantwell, King, Heller, Kaine, Jones, Gardner, and Coons in introducing the Task Force on the Impact of the Affordable Housing Crisis Act, which seeks to better understand and respond to America's affordable housing crisis by creating a bipartisan affordable housing task force. Global Ministries Foundation May 13, 2016 Rubio tells slumlords at HUD Apartments in Jacksonville: You Guys Are Disgusting. May 13, 2016 After shaming slumlords, Rubiocallsfor criminal investigation. May 18, 2016 Rubiospoke on the Senate floorblasting Global Ministries Foundation. May 24, 2016 Rubio urged theU.S. Department of Justice, theU.S. Department of the Treasuryand theU.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)to open an investigation into Global Ministries Foundation. August 3, 2016 Rubiocommented on the federal raid of slumlordsat Global Ministries Foundation, which he called for earlier in the year. August 11, 2016 Rubiowelcomed report that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission isinvestigating Global Ministries Foundation. September 22, 2016 Rubio testified at the Senate Banking Committee's Subcommittee on Housing, Transportation, and Community Development's hearing on the Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) inspections process. July 13, 2018 Rubio and Nelson urged the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to immediately resolve unanswered maintenance requests for tenants of properties owned by Global Ministries Foundation. Eureka Gardens Apartments October 9, 2… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=071446A4-557E-4512-81B7-7A205CBD297D | On Senate Floor, Rubio Calls for Pardons for "the Groveland Four" | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. On the Senate floor today, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) urged Florida officials to pardon the Groveland Four, four young African American men who were victims of institutionalized racial hatred in Lake County, Florida, in 1949 and subsequent years. A rough transcript of his remarks is below. A high-quality version for broadcast is available here.Rubio: We're talking about the subject of justice, and I thought it was appropriate to take a couple of minutes here as we get ready to vote to signify a unique injustice that occurred in the state of Florida 70 years ago. In July of 1949, a white couple was driving their couple when it broke down on a rural road near Groveland, Florida. Two black men, Walter Irvin and Samuel Shepherd, stopped to help the couple. What followed was a horrifying injustice. It haunts Florida and truly the nation to this day. Norma Padgett was the white woman in that truck. She was 17 years old. She told police that she had been abducted and raped by four black men. Many locals at the time doubted her story. Her estranged husband was known to be a drinker and to become violent with her. Many suspected she had made up these accusations to cover up for his abuse. The Sheriff's Office nevertheless detained three men for this alleged crime. Walter Irvin and Samuel Shepherd, the two men who had stopped to help the couple were both World War II veterans. They both denied abducting or raping the woman. Nevertheless, they were detained and they were brutally beaten in the basement of the Sheriff's Office in the jail until they confessed to a crime they did not commit. A few days later Mr. Shepherd's family home was burned to the ground. A third man, 16-year-old Charles Greenlee, who only 16, so really a boy, at the time … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3D0842BC-B000-4C52-B6A6-2AD5682D037B | Rubio Introduces Bill to Modernize Medicaid DSH, Help Hospitals Providing Care to Low-Income Patients | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) introduced the State Accountability, Flexibility, and Equity (SAFE) for Hospitals Act, which would overhaul the Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) program to create equity for all states by updating a metric used to determine how much each state is allotted, which has not been reformed since the early 1990's. The SAFE Hospitals Act would resolve a longstanding disparity in Medicaid DSH allocations across the nation, including Florida, and prioritize funding for hospitals that provide the most care to Medicaid and low-income patients.Over the course of 10-15 years, Florida hospitals could gain up to $600 million in annual DSH funding as a result of Rubio's bill. A one-pager of the bill is available here.For far too long, Florida has not received its fair share of funding for hospitals that serve the most vulnerable patients, Rubio said. The Medicaid DSH program must be modernized, rather than relying on an outdated system that predominantly reflects state spending in 1992. My new bill would fix this disparity and update the system to create equity within the DSH program. I'm proud to introduce this proposal to reform Medicaid DSH, and it is my hope that this bill will become a framework for future reform.The Florida Hospital Association commends Senator Rubio for his leadership in the effort to bring equity and fairness to the Federal Medicaid Disproportionate Share program. The SAFE Hospitals Act provides a more rational allocation of DSH funds and brings the DSH program closer to its original purpose. It prioritizes DSH payments for those hospitals that serve higher numbers of low income and uninsured patients, Florida Hospital Association President Bruce Rueben said. The Safety Net Ho… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=858F4EC7-FC3B-4B35-940C-D61BE9888662 | Rubio Statement On First Step Act | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released a statement today following his vote on the FIRST STEP Act: Over the past several months, I have heard arguments on both sides of the First Step Act. Ultimately, I voted no because the Senate did not address serious concerns raised by local law enforcement, federal prosecutors and constituents in Florida about the sentencing reforms in this bill. As I've said before, reforms to our criminal justice system are needed because 95% of federal inmates will be released at some point. Preparing them to integrate into society and find meaningful work is in our best interests, but we must always err on the side of public safety. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8701DF6B-BFA7-417A-8D0D-C3AEBE1205E7 | Following Reports of Slum-Like Living Conditions, Rubio Demands Investigation of Glorieta Gardens | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) today called for Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Ben Carson and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner Charles Rettig to conduct an investigation and potentially suspend benefits to the owners of Glorieta Gardens Apartments in Opa-locka, Florida. The request was made following multiple visits by Rubio's staff to see first-hand the living conditions described in tenant testimonies. Specifically, Rubio requested the agencies conduct an audit of the property owner, Glorieta Partners, Ltd., and their contractors, to ensure federal tax dollars were used as intended in the rehabilitation and management of the property. Additionally, Rubio requested that HUD grant a Section 8 pass-through lease to allow tenants to receive safe and sanitary temporary housing until the property is properly rehabilitated by the owner as promised. Background on Rubio's efforts to keep low income housing tenants safe can be found here.The full text of the letter is below. Dear Secretary Carson and Commissioner Rettig: I write with great concern for constituents who reside at the Glorieta Gardens Apartments in Opa-locka, Florida. In 2017, Glorieta Gardens Apartments, which consists of more than 300 units owned and managed by Glorieta Partners Ltd., went through an extensive rehabilitation that reportedly cost more than $16 million. It was partially financed with federal tax credits and allegedly allowed for a 20 percent subsidized-Housing and Urban Development (HUD) rent increase in the wake of its completion. Since the rehabilitation, tenants have reported that the property is in worse condition now than it was prior to the repairs. My staff recently visited the property, met with residents, and witnessed thick layers of mold coating walls, sewage leaking into kitchens, and corroded pipes. Tenants reported that they received appliances that do not work, experienced instances where their walls were painted to cover rust and mold, and experience constant flooding.… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=CA87C9C2-8E35-4A89-8559-E27667BCA755 | Rubio, Colleagues Urge Administration to Respond to Allegations of Chinese Government Election Interference | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Cory Gardner (R-CO), Chris Coons (D-DE), Michael Bennet (D-CO), and Ted Cruz (R-TX) expressing concern to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and other national security leaders in the Trump Administration about ongoing Chinese Communist Party (CCP) attempts to undermine democracy. In the letter, the Senators encouraged the Administration to work closely with Taiwan to investigate the allegations of interference and respond if necessary.The full text of the letter is below.Dear Secretaries Pompeo and Mnuchin, Directors Coats and Wray:We write with concern about allegations that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) interfered in Taiwan's recent elections. CCP attempts to erode democratic processes and norms around the world threaten U.S. partnerships and prosperity. Allegations such as those surrounding Taiwan's recent elections must therefore be pursued with seriousness and urgency. We appreciate the actions your departments are already taking to address CCP foreign interference. We encourage you to work closely with Taiwan authorities to thoroughly investigate these allegations and, if necessary, take swift action to deter future CCP interference in elections in Taiwan or elsewhere across the globe.In the lead-up to Taiwan's local elections on November 24, 2018, Taiwan authorities and independent observers alleged that the CCP used illegal funds and disinformation to influence the election results in favor of the CCP's strategic interests. It is not our intent, nor our role, to question the veracity or fairness of the electoral outcome. Rather, in an era of growing authoritarian interference, we believe such allegations must be taken seriously if free societies are … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=4503B44B-8D2A-46B1-B00F-171AB19DE038 | Rubio: Otro diciembre bajo represin en Amrica Latina | 2018-12-17 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Otro diciembre bajo represin en Amrica LatinaPor Senador estadounidense Marco Rubio17 de diciembre de 2018 Diario Las AmricasLos presos polticos y de conciencia de Cuba, Venezuela y Nicaragua son hoy un motivo de reflexin e inspiracin por su lucha a favor de los Derechos Humanos y la democraciaEl mes de diciembre debera ser sinnimo de alegra, armona y felicidad. Tristemente, esa no es la realidad de muchos pases en nuestro hemisferio, cuyas fiestas navideas son opacadas por la violacin de derechos humanos y represin que enfrentan. Este mes, el secretario general de la Organizacin de Estados Americanos (OEA), Luis Almagro, denunci al rgimen de Cuba por silenciosamente exportar mecanismos de terror por toda Latinoamrica. Bajo el mando de Nicols Maduro y Daniel Ortega sus pases han adoptado esos mecanismos de terror para tratar de silenciar y oprimir a sus pueblos.Los presos polticos y de conciencia de Cuba, Venezuela y Nicaragua son hoy un motivo de reflexin e inspiracin por su lucha a favor de los Derechos Humanos y la democracia. La crueldad en contra de lderes democrticos, como los casos de las Damas de Blanco y Eduardo Cardet en Cuba, Leopoldo Lpez y Juan Requesens en Venezuela, Jaime Ampi Machado y Chester Membreo en Nicaragua, dan fe de que en estos tres pases reina la opresin y la violacin a los derechos humanos de aquellas personas quienes aspiran a vivir en libertad.Aunque el llamado presidente de Cuba no tiene el apellido Castro, la realidad es que Miguel Daz-Canel sigue las mismas tcticas represivas de sus dos antecesores. Las Damas de Blanco, recientemente galardonadas con el Premio Milton Friedman del Instituto CATO, siguen siendo amedrentadas y son vctimas de ataques por parte del rgimen cubano. Estas mujeres, quienes pacficamente caminan por… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=631ACA0A-77CA-49CC-B140-2D47DF421BDC | Rubio Statement On First Step Act | 2018-12-17 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released a statement today following his vote to bring the FIRST STEP Act to the floor for debate: Reforms to our criminal justice system are needed. 95% of federal inmates will be released at some point, and preparing them to integrate into society and find meaningful work is in our best interests. Thatis why I am a supporter of the Second Chance Act, which is included in this bill. However, I've heard significant concerns from local law enforcement, federal prosecutors and constituents in Florida about the sentencing reforms in this bill. I voted today to begin debate on the First Step Act in the hopes those concerns can be fully addressed during an open amendment process. If they are not addressed, I will vote no on this bill when it comes before the Senate for final passage. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=57F91FF6-FDC9-4AE3-9285-10A018FC2E0A | Rubio Praises Obamacare Ruling By Texas Federal Judge | 2018-12-15 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Miami, FL U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released the following statement praising the ruling by U.S. District Judge Reed O'Connor, declaring the Affordable Care Act unconstitutional. The ruling against Obamacare, on behalf of Florida and others, serves as a stark reminder of the millions of Americans who are suffering under the law. Americans should have the ability to buy a health plan that meets their needs, rather than what Washington tells them. This ruling is a first, not a final step, in a long legal process and will not impact next year's coverage. Ultimately, congress must take action. We should look at opportunities that give families flexibility in obtaining healthcare while also allowing states the ability to innovate. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mast.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FD937AC3-F3DF-4A77-8B70-D93056B7F583 | Mast, Rubio Request Immediate Intervention By Trump Administration To Prevent Delay of EAA Southern Storage Reservoir Project | 2018-12-14 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Brian Mast | M001199 | mast.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (FL-18) and U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (FL) yesterday raised urgent concerns with the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works, R. D. James, over an Army Corps of Engineers proposal that would disregard clear congressional intent and delay the review of the Central Everglades Planning Project (CEPP) Post Authorization Change Report (PACR) by more than a year. The Corps cannot simply ignore the parts of federal law that they find inconvenient or don't want to comply with, Rep. Mast said. If they fail to submit their report to Congress by January 18th, they will have violated the law, and that's absolutely unacceptable. Delays will not be tolerated. Specifically, Rubio and Mast requested that Secretary James directly intervene to prevent the Corps bureaucracy from unnecessarily delaying the design and construction of the vital Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Storage Reservoir project. The reservoir was authorized as a result of language written by Rep. Mast and Sen. Rubio included in the Water Resources Development Act that was signed into law earlier this year. The Corps cannot be allowed to waste valuable time and scarce taxpayer resources duplicating feasibility study efforts for projects that Congress has already authorized, Rep. Mast and Sen. Rubio wrote in the letter. It is wholly inappropriate for the Corps to abuse the reporting requirement included in the CEPP PACR authorization for the purpose of relitigating the feasibility study for a congressionally-authorized project. Thefull text of the letteris below: Dear Secretary James: We strongly urge your attention to our concerns regarding an unacceptable proposal by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to significantly extend the Section 203 review process and potentially seek a second, modified authorization for the Central Everglades Planning Project (CEPP) Post Authorization Change Report (PACR). As you are aware, the concept for feasibility studie… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=09B721FD-C178-445B-BDC2-120B748EF3D1 | Rubio, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Impose Pressure on Iranian Regime, Reinforce American Sanctions | 2018-12-14 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined his colleagues Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) and U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher (R-WI) in introducing the Blocking Iranian Illicit Finance Act. The bill seeks to counter the Iranian regime's money laundering and financing of terrorism, protect the global financial system from Iranian illicit finance, and impose maximum financial pressure on Iran.Tom Cotton (R-AR.), Thom Tillis (R-SC), Cory Gardner (R-CO), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Todd Young (R-IN), and Representatives Doug Lamborn (R-CO), Jim Banks (R-IN), Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Jacki Walorski (R-IN), Peter King (R-NY), and Don Bacon (R-NE) also joined as original cosponsors of the bill.This important legislation would empower the United States and our like-minded allies to do more to end the Iranian government's ability to illicitly finance its dangerous efforts to sponsor terrorism and militancy, to advance its nuclear and missile programs, to egregiously abuse human rights in Iran and abroad, and to suppress the Iranian people's aspirations for self-determination, Senator Rubio said. I look forward to working with fellow lawmakers and the Administration to enact this legislation and fully implement the maximum pressure against the regime in Tehran.The Obama Iran nuclear deal gifted the Ayatollahs with hundreds of billions of dollars and reconnected them to the global financial system, which they used launder even more money and fund even more terrorism Senator Cruz said. Undoing that damage requires imposing maximum pressure against the Iranian regime. President Trump was absolutely right when he began that process by withdrawing from the nuclear deal. Effectively disconnecting Iran from the global financial system, which this bill does, is a nece… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=29DE2AD9-A2FD-4790-8BB9-E50083220BB5 | Next Week: Rubio Staff Hosts Mobile Office Hours | 2018-12-14 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Miami, FL The office of U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) will host Mobile Office Hours next week to assist constituents with federal casework issues in their communities. These office hours offer constituents who do not live close to regional offices a more convenient way to receive federal casework assistance.Monday, December 17, 2018Hillsborough County10:00am 1:00pm ESTMaureen Gauzza Public Library11211 Countryway Blvd.Tampa, FL 336262:00pm 5:00pm ESTLutz Branch Library101 Lutz-Lake Fern Rd. W. Lutz, FL 33548Tuesday, December 18, 2018 Miami-Dade County9:30am 12:30pm ESTMiami Dade County Government Center 111 NW 1st St.Miami, FL 33128Seminole County 10:00am 12:00pm EST Winter Springs Senior Center 400 N. Edgemon Ave. Winter Springs, FL 32708Lee County10:00am 1:00pm ESTSWFL Military Museum4820 Leonard St.Cape Coral, FL 33904Manatee County1:00pm 5:00pm ESTDowntown Central Library1301 Barcarrota Blvd. W.Bradenton, FL 34205Nassau County2:00pm 4:00pm ESTNassau County Chamber of Commerce961687 Gateway Blvd.Fernandina Beach, FL 32034Duval County3:00pm 4:30pm ESTDuval County Library Southeast Branch10599 Deerwood Park Blvd.Jacksonville, FL 32256Wednesday, December 19, 2018Clay County10:00am 11:30am ESTClay County Council on Aging604 Walnut St.Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 Miami-Dade County12:00pm 3:00pm ESTSouth Dade Regional Library10750 SW 211 St.Cutler Bay, FL 33189Alachua County1:00pm 2:30pm ESTGainesville Main Library Meeting Room B 401 East University Ave.Gainesville, FL 32601Thursday, December 20, 2018Miami-Dade County12:00pm 3:00pm ESTWest Flagler Library5050 W. Flagler St.Miami, FL 33134Friday, December 21, 2018Sarasota County10:00am 1:00pm ESTNorth Port Library13800 Tamiami TrailNorth Port, FL 34287Sarasota County2:00pm 5:00pm ESTFrance… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=80E2E6F4-52BA-45E7-91FB-208A4283B5DB | Rubio, Mast Request Immediate Intervention by Trump Administration to Prevent Delay of EAA Storage Reservoir Project | 2018-12-14 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Congressman Brian Mast (R-FL), a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, raised urgent concerns with the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works, R. D. James, over an Army Corps of Engineers proposal that would disregard clear congressional intent and delay the review of the Central Everglades Planning Project (CEPP) Post Authorization Change Report (PACR) by more than a year. Specifically, Rubio and Mast requested that Secretary James directly intervene to prevent the Corps bureaucracy from unnecessarily delaying the design and construction of the vital Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Storage Reservoir project.Rubio led the effort to authorize the EAA, which passed the Senate on October 10 by a vote of 99-1. A list of Rubio's efforts fighting for Florida's Everglades can be found here. The full text of the letter is below: Dear Secretary James: We strongly urge your attention to our concerns regarding an unacceptable proposal by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to significantly extend the Section 203 review process and potentially seek a second, modified authorization for the Central Everglades Planning Project (CEPP) Post Authorization Change Report (PACR). As you are aware, the concept for feasibility studies conducted by non-federal interests was created under Sec. 203 of the Water Resources Development Act of 1986 (P.L. 99-662). The CEPP PACR Feasibility Study and Draft Environmental Impact Statement, as prepared by the South Florida Water Management District, is the first and only such study to be determined feasible by the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works and authorized by Congress. Management o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=E44CE9B1-DCB4-4391-928D-61C15B9F9625 | Rubio, Nelson, Dunn Urge Colleagues to Support Funding to Rebuild Tyndall Air Force Base | 2018-12-14 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Miami, FL U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Congressman Neal Dunn (R-FL) urged Senators Richard Shelby (R-AL) and Patrick Leahy (D-VT), as well as U.S. Representatives Rodney Frelinghuysen (R-PA) and Nita Lowey (D-NY), the Chairs and Ranking Members of the Senate and House Appropriations Committees, to support funding to rebuild Tyndall Air Force Base.A list of Rubio's efforts fighting for Florida's recovery from Hurricane Michael can be found here. The full text of the letter is below: Dear Chairman Shelby, Chairman Frelinghuysen, Ranking Member Leahy, and Ranking Member Lowey:On December 7, 1941, Tyndall Field, received the first of 2,000 troops as an Army Air Forces Gunnery School. These World War II schoolhouses provided the necessary training of fighter and bomber pilots allowing the development of diverse skills for various aircraft and differing positions within bombers. Since then, the base transitioned into the Air Force where many different fighter aircraft have called the base home, from the F-86 Sabre and the F-104 Starfighter to most recently the F-22 Raptor. Basing advanced fighter aircraft is what Tyndall Air Force Base has carried out in the name of national security since before the United States formally entered World War II.In October, Hurricane Michael caused catastrophic damage to the Florida panhandle including damage to 95 percent of the buildings at Tyndall AFB. Before the storm, Tyndall was home to two F-22 Raptor squadrons, one operational and one training. The base is also home to the First Air Force, the 53rd Weapons Evaluation Group, and the Air Force Civil Engineer Center. Following the storm, Vice… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/bilirakis-blog/bilirakis-co-authors-letter-pompeo-regarding-greece | Bilirakis Co-Authors Letter to Pompeo Regarding Greece | 2018-12-13 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Gus Bilirakis | B001257 | bilirakis.house.gov | legacy | 38500 U.S. Hwy 19 North Rm BB-038 of St. Petersburg College Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 This office cannot accept mail. All mail should be sent to 7132 Little Road, New Port Richey, FL 34654 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=22D02EC7-F0CD-46BA-BA8A-EB74FA545C1A | VIDEO: Rubio: War Powers Resolution is the Wrong Way to Deal with Yemen Conflict | 2018-12-13 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. Today, in a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) addressed U.S. involvement with the Saudi-led coalition in the Yemen conflict. Yesterday, Rubio penned an op-ed on Yemen and Saudi Arabia.A rough transcript of Rubio's remarks is below.RUBIO: I want to start by thanking the authors of this War Powers Resolution on Yemen, because while I may not agree with them, and I'm going to describe why in a moment, I think it's important that the Senate have big debates about big topics and play its rightful role. The Senate and the Legislative branch have an important role to play in setting the foreign policy of the United States. I actually don't think the War Powers Act is even constitutional. I believe it is unconstitutional restraint on the power of the Commander-in-Chief, and even if it were constitutional, I do not believe that our engagement or what we are doing in Yemen with the Saudi U.A.E. coalition rises to the level of triggering it. That doesn't mean that Congress should not be involved. And frankly, the one way you could be involved is if you wanted to and you wanted to pronounce yourself on a matter of this topic, you should file to cut off the money. I wouldn't support it, but that's where Congress' power really comes from. Shut off the money. Say no money can be spent on this effort. Few people are willing to do that. And so we rely on these other mechanisms, which exist in our law. I want to talk more about why I think it's a bad idea to vote for this, and why I hope more of my colleagues will join me in opposing it. First of all, I understand what's happening. This resolution is not new. It's been discussed before. It existed for a number of months, well before Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi's br… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=27E3077D-C484-4413-B7F7-11E3157612F6 | At Approx. 10:40AM, Rubio Addresses U.S.-Saudi Relations, Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen | 2018-12-13 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. At approximately 10:40 a.m. on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) will address U.S. involvement with the Saudi-led coalition in the Yemen conflict. Yesterday, Rubio penned an op-ed on Yemen and Saudi Arabia. Rubio's remarks will be broadcast on C-SPAN 2 and the U.S. Senate's official website. Thursday, December 13, 2018 Rubio Addresses U.S.-Saudi Relations, Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen Approximately 10:40 a.m. ET U.S. Senate Washington, D.C. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=BC4B2DFF-652A-4736-B9D6-74C248B5B65A | English/Espaol: Rubio, Menendez, Colleagues Introduce Temporary Protected Status Legislation To Support Displaced Venezuelans | 2018-12-13 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Chairman of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere, Transnational Crime, Civilian Security, Democracy, Human Rights, and Global Women's Issues, today joined Senators Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), and Patrick Leahy (D-VT) in introducing the Venezuela Temporary Protected Status and Asylum Assistance Act of 2018. The bipartisan legislation seeks to grant Temporary Protected Status for eligible Venezuelans fleeing the dire conditions in their homeland and to provide support for migration systems in the countries surrounding Venezuela. Established by the U.S. Congress through the Immigration Act of 1990, TPS is a temporary, renewable program that provides relief from deportation and access to a work permit for foreign nationals from certain countries who are unable to safely return to their home country due to natural disasters, armed conflicts, or other extraordinary conditions. As Venezuelans continue to face serious threats to their safety and livelihood at the hands of Maduro's narcoterrorist tyranny, it is clear in-country conditions warrant granting temporary protected status to Venezuelan nationals residing in the U.S., Rubio said. Granting this protection will provide a temporary solution to many Venezuelans who fear returning to their homeland due to the ongoing crisis and extraordinarily difficult conditions. The extraordinary depth of Venezuela's political, economic, and humanitarian crisis has forced millions of Venezuelans to flee their country, creating upheaval that is now being felt throughout the region, Menendez said. Providing Temporary Protected Status for eligible individuals and supporting migration systems in the region to assist Venezuelans who are prevented from returning safely to their country is the humanitarian and morally responsible thing to do. When I traveled to Venezuela earlier this year, I found a country on the edge, facing overlapping economic, humanitarian, and political crises. The Venezu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=E5197DB4-5859-4D6D-BCCA-57E5B00BB046 | ICYMI: Rubio: America Needs to Restore Dignity of Work | 2018-12-13 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases America Needs to Restore Dignity of WorkBy U.S. Senator Marco RubioDecember 13, 2018The Atlantic There was once a path to a stable and prosperous life in America that has since closed off. It was a well-traveled path for many Americans: Graduate high school and get a job, typically with a local manufacturer or one of the service industries associated with it, and earn enough to support a family. The idea was not only that it was possible to achieve this kind of success, but that anyone could achieve itthe American dream. That dream defines my family's history, and its disappearance calls me to action today.In 1956, my parents left behind a life of poverty in Cuba when they departed Havana with my 7-year-old brother for New York, and then for Miami soon after. My father started off taking whatever day jobs he could find before eventually becoming a bartender for most of his career, working various other jobs during the gaps. Once my younger sister and I were old enough, my mother started working again as a maid.Between their two salaries and my dad's tips, they made a good living, and I had a privileged childhood. My parents made enough to own a house, raise four children, and even allow my mother to spend most of her time at home when I was young. I was able to play football, go to college, and earn a law degree, because of the solid foundation built on the sacrifices my parents made for me and my siblings.At some moments in our history, this sort of upward mobility has proved elusive. But when the United States has enjoyed booming new industries that offer good-paying jobs to large numbers of people, effective institutions of training and assimilation, and a strong communal spirit of aid and shared purpose, such opportunities have been broadly shared.To… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://buchanan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congress-passes-buchanan-measure-protecting-animals | Congress Passes Buchanan Measure Protecting Animals | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Vern Buchanan | B001260 | buchanan.house.gov | legacy | Outlaws Slaughter of Dogs and Cats for Food Heads to President for His Signature WASHINGTON Congressman Vern Buchanan's legislation to outlaw the slaughter of dogs and cats for food was passed by the U.S. House today, along with two other animal welfare bills he co-sponsored. All three measures were included in a sweeping farm bill sent to the president for his signature. Buchanan's Dog and Cat Meat Trade Prohibition Act of 2018 amends the federal Animal Welfare Act to make it illegal to knowingly slaughter, transport, possess, buy, sell or donate dogs or cats or their parts for human consumption. Violators would be fined up to $5,000. Although rare, the practice is still legal in 44 states.A restaurant in Philadelphia was closed several years ago after a worker was caught slaughtering cats chained in the basement to be served as meals, according to theAnimalWelfare Institute. Millions of Americans enjoy a special bond with their beloved dogs and cats, Buchanan said. It is horrifying to think any of them would be slaughtered for food. Holly Gann, director of federal affairs at Animal Wellness Action, said her organization was thrilled about the bill's passage. We applaud Rep. Buchanan for his leadership on this critical legislation that protects our dogs and cats from ever becoming victims of this cruelty and sets a global example to encourage the rest of the world to do the same, Gann said. Two other animal welfare bills co-sponsored by Buchanan also were included in the farm bill: The Pet and Women Safety (PAWS) Act: Makes it easier for women to bring their pets with them to domestic violence shelters when they leave abusive relationships by providing grants for shelter and housing assistance for domestic violence victims with pets. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 71 percent of pet-owning women entering these shelters reported that their abuser had threatened to injure or kill their pets. Parity in Animal Cruelty Enforcement (PACE) Act: Ends animal fighting in all United States t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://dunn.house.gov/2018/12/farm-bill-heading-to-president-trump-s-desk | Farm Bill Heading to President Trumps Desk | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Neal Dunn | D000628 | dunn.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02) issued the following statement on the House and Senate passage of the Farm Bill Conference Report: While not perfect, the 2018 Farm Bill gives certainty to our farmers, foresters, and ranchers at a time when many producers are struggling. Under the compromise legislation, we were able to strengthen the farm safety net, improve conservation programs, and make changes to the SNAP program. Our farmers need to know we have their backs and I look forward to this important legislation being signed into law. The 2018 Farm Bill Conference Report is supported by more than 500 agricultural groups, including the Florida Farm Bureau Federation, Florida Peanut Producers Association, and the Florida Cattleman's Association. Dr. Dunn served on the House-Senate Conference Committee charged with resolving the differences over the 2018 Farm Bill. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=111 | Farm Bill Heading to President Trumps Desk | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Neal P. Dunn | D000628 | dunn.house.gov | dunn | https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 | scraper | Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02) issued the following statement on the House and Senate passage of the Farm Bill Conference Report: “While not perfect, the 2018 Farm Bill gives certainty to our farmers, foresters, and ranchers at a time when many producers are struggling. Under the compromise legislation, we were able to strengthen the farm safety net, improve conservation programs, and make changes to the SNAP program. Our farmers need to know we have their backs and I look forward to this important legislation being signed into law.” The 2018 Farm Bill Conference Report is supported by more than 500 agricultural groups, including the Florida Farm Bureau Federation, Florida Peanut Producers Association, and the Florida Cattleman’s Association. Dr. Dunn served on the House-Senate Conference Committee charged with resolving the differences over the 2018 Farm Bill. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z |
| https://francisrooney.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=419 | Congressman Francis Rooney votes No on wasteful farm bill | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Francis Rooney | R000607 | francisrooney.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C.-Today, Congressman Rooney voted against the wasteful farm bill, which included bloated sugar subsidies and lacks work requirements for able-bodied adults. Congressman Rooney stated, The farm bill is full of government handouts and is a complete capitulation to Democrats. Good conservative policies such as stricter work requirements for able-bodied adults to receive food stamps have been stripped out of the legislation. The bill also broadened unnecessary subsidies for farmers, which are now expanded to include non-farming family members. The Farm Bill continues to shelter farmers from free-market principles by protecting their subsidies including taxpayer-funded support for sugar, cotton and tobacco. The bill also extends biofuel subsidies. The American people are tired of Congress picking winners and losers. I was one of three Florida Republicans in the 115thCongress to vote against handouts to big sugar and will continue to protect taxpayers from special interests. Americans deserve better stewardship of their taxpayer dollars. Background: The bill authorizes $867 billion in spending over 10 years, 80% of which is allocated for food stamps Tighter requirements for able-bodied beneficiaries of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), one of the only conservative components of the original House-passed farm bill, were removed from the bill by the Senate Under this bill, sugar subsidies are extended until 2023 Crop Insurance reimbursement will continue to be subsidized by taxpayers ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/house-approves-ros-lehtinen-resolution-condemning-irans-persecution-bahai%E2%80%99s-human | House Approves Ros-Lehtinen Resolution Condemning Iran's Persecution of Bahais, Human Rights Violations | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | House Approves Ros-Lehtinen Resolution Condemning Iran's Persecution of Bahia's, Human Rights Violations (Washington, DC) Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa, made the following statement after H. Res. 274 passed the House of Representatives. Authored by Ros-Lehtinen and Rep. Ted Deutch (D-FL), the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee, H. Res. 274 condemns Iran's persecution of its Baha'i minority and its ongoing human rights violations. Statement by Ros-Lehtinen: Iran's Baha'i community is a frequent target of the regime's human rights abuses, subjecting adherents to arbitrary arrest and harassment, denying employment, refusing to recognize marriages, and destroying cemeteries and holy places. By passing Ted's and my resolution, Congress is sending a strong message of support to those suffering in Iran and making it clear that those responsible for this persecution will be held accountable. I urge the administration to continue using all tools at its disposal, including sanction authorities with human rights provisions, to bring an end to these abuses. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/ros-lehtinen-engel-statement-guatemala | Ros-Lehtinen, Engel Statement on Guatemala | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Ros-Lehtinen, Engel Statement on Guatemala Dec 12, 2018 ROS-LEHTINEN, ENGEL STATEMENT ON GUATEMALA WASHINGTONRepresentative Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), the Chair Emeritus of the Committee, today issued the following statement: As longtime advocates for democracy and the rule of law in Central America, we call on all Guatemalan political actors to preserve the independence of the judiciary and particularly that of the country's Constitutional Court. We reject all efforts to intimidate judges and prosecutors, many of whom have dedicated their professional lives to tackling complex drug and human trafficking cases in a very difficult environment. Finally, we urge a transparent, merit-based selection process for Supreme Court and Appeal Court judges next year. # # # | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=54553D36-B16E-427C-8AD4-ED36FB1892ED | Rubio, Colleagues Commend Final Passage of the NICA Act | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Chairman of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere, Transnational Crime, Civilian Security, Democracy, Human Rights, and Global Women's Issues, joined Senators Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Patrick Leahy (D-VT), as well as Representatives Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Eliot Engel (D-NY) and Albio Sires (D-NJ) in welcoming the final passage of H.R. 1918, the Nicaraguan Investment and Conditionality Act (NICA), which now heads to the President's desk to be signed into law. The NICA Act seeks to condition U.S. approval for loans to the Ortega regime from international financial institutions. Rubio's amendment targeting the regime's enablers were included in S. 3233, the Nicaragua Human Rights and Anticorruption Act of 2018, which seeks to impose additional sanctions on Nicaraguan regime officials. In an important day for the Nicaraguan Community, Congress today overwhelmingly passed the NICA Act after many months of hard work behind the scenes, Rubio said. We are one step closer to expanding sanctions and other pressures against the oppressive Ortega regime and sending a clear message that the United States will not tolerate the ongoing human rights violations. I thank Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, who spearheaded these efforts, for her tireless work in support of democracy in the Western Hemisphere. I thank my colleagues in the House and Senate for passing the NICA Act that will help the Nicaraguan people break free of Ortega's despotic rule. I am especially thankful to Bob, Ted, Marco, Patrick, Eliot, and Albio who joined me in this effort from the very beginning, as we witnessed years of Ortega's increased corruption and repression, Ros-Lehtinen said. "With the final passage of the amended NICA Act, Congress took a leap forward in creating further accountability against the heinous abuses committed by Ortega and his puppets. In a desperate effort to cling to power, Ortega and his thugs have continued to clamp down on fr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=6002577A-50E1-4657-8D7A-D95B612570E4 | Video: Rubio Bids Farewell to Senator Bill Nelson on the Senate Floor | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) honored his friend and colleague Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL) following his final speech as a United States Senator. A rough, full transcript of Rubio's remarks is below. A high-quality video for download is available here.Rubio: Madam President, we just heard the words of the senior Senator from my state, and I want to take a moment because it reminds me of a truthism that came to mind as I heard him speak and I reflect back on our almost eight years of service here together now. You know, political divisions have existed in our country since its very beginning. What has changed is that there was a time not so very long ago when Americans knew each other, when Americans had political differences, but they also served on the PTA board together. When we disagreed about who to vote for, but we coached each other's kids in little league or we were members of the same church and worshipped together or we lived side by side as neighbors. And so when all you know about someone is who they voted for. But you know them as a fellow parent, as a neighbor, as your children's coach, as someone you live side by side with, then you know them as a person. It's a lot easier to dislike a political opponent than it is to dislike the whole person. And I raise that with you because I'm very proud of the relationship, the working relationship that we've had in our eight years here together. One of the things that made that possible is that I knew Bill Nelson as a person. If all I knew about him was that he and I did not always vote the same way on every issue, that's what most people know about us who serve here. That's one of the challenges that we so often face. The men and women we represent in our respective parties … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=847071F4-6CDD-4021-BAC1-60D9A58992DE | At Approx 2:30pm, Rubio Delivers Remarks on the Senate Floor | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, at approximately 2:30 p.m ET, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) will deliver remarks on the Senate floor on the retirement of his colleague, Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL). Rubio will also address U.S. involvement with the Saudi-led coalition in the Yemen conflict, and ongoing efforts to rebuild Tyndall Air Force base in the Florida Panhandle after the destruction of Hurricane Michael. Today, Rubio penned an op-ed on Yemen and Saudi Arabia. Last week, he published an op-ed on the need for Tyndall Air Force Base to be fully rebuilt. Rubio's remarks will be broadcast on C-SPAN 2 and the U.S. Senate's official website. Wednesday, December 12, 2018 Rubio Delivers Remarks on the Senate Floor Approximately 2:30 p.m. ET U.S. Senate Washington, D.C. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=AC8D8CB8-85DA-4CF0-AB85-A02DEEB54F08 | ICYMI: Rubio: Hold Saudis Accountable, but Don't Ignore Iran in Yemen | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Senator Marco Rubio: Hold Saudis accountable, but don't ignore Iran in Yemen By U.S. Senator Marco Rubio December 12, 2018 Fox News After Saudi operatives brutally murdered Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi at the Kingdom's consulate in Istanbul in October, the Senate is rightly reviewing U.S. relations with Saudi Arabia, including debating U.S. involvement with the Saudi-led coalition in the Yemen conflict. Not enough attention, however, is being given to Iran's direct responsibility for the suffering, violence and tragedy in Yemen. The humanitarian crisis in Yemen is staggering. The ongoing conflict between the Saudi-supported, internationally-recognized government in Yemen, and the Iran-backed Houthi rebels, reportedly has claimed over 57,000 lives, driven half of Yemen's 28 million people to the cusp of famine, and displaced 2.3 million Yemenis from their homes. The U.S. has powerful interests not only in ending Yemen's humanitarian crisis, but also in stopping Iran and its Shi'a terrorist proxies, as well as Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), ISIS-Yemen, and other Sunni terrorists, from establishing permanent footholds from which they can threaten our nation and our forces in the region. In Yemen, as in Syria, Iran is ruthlessly pursuing malign hegemony with no regard for innocent lives. The Iranian regime is using arms transfers, training and terrorist proxies to empower Houthi rebels, terrorize Yemeni civilians, undermine the security of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, and challenge U.S. national security interests in the region. Houthi rebels have used Iranian-supplied advanced arms in the Yemen conflict, indiscriminately launching over 100 ballistic missiles against Saudi cities, unleashing explosive unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) against Saudi civilian targets, and deploying explosive boats and anti-ship missiles against commercial ships in the Arabian Gulf. Moreover, Iran-backed Houthi rebels have detained thousands of Yemenis and reportedly subjected many of them to… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=DA9DE421-1B74-4AF1-9A54-9C5D4DB28ED7 | English/Espaol: Rubio, Menendez Urge Trump To Recognize Venezuelas National Assembly As The Only Legitimate Institution | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Bob Menendez (D-NJ) today urged President Trump to once again denounce Nicols Maduro as the illegitimate President of Venezuela and to recognize the National Assembly as the country's only remaining democratic institution. Under Article 231 of the Venezuelan constitution, "The candidate elected will take possession of the role of President of the Republic on the 10th of January of the first year of its constitutional period, by oath to the National Assembly." Given the undemocratic and fraudulent elections of May 20, 2018, organized by the illegitimate National Constituent Assembly, starting on January 10, 2019 Venezuela's democratically elected Congress will assume the leadership of the nation. The full text of the letter is below:Dear Mr. President:Under the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela's 1999 constitution, the country is supposed to inaugurate a democratically-elected president on January 10, 2019. Article 231 of Venezuela's constitution states that [t]he candidate elected will take possession of the role of President of the Republic on the 10th of January of the first year of its constitutional period, by oath to the National Assembly. The regime of Nicols Maduro, however, has turned Venezuela away from the path of democracy and down the path of dictatorship. We therefore request that you condemn the Maduro regime's rule as illegitimate, and formally recognize the Venezuelan National Assembly as the only legitimate democratic institution remaining in the country's national government.In May 2018, the Maduro regime held fraudulent elections that failed to meet established international standards for a free, fair and transparent electoral process. These elections were rightly denounced as a sha… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://yoho.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/2018-farm-bill-headed-to-president-s-desk | 2018 Farm Bill Headed to the Presidents Desk | 2018-12-12 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ted Yoho | Y000065 | yoho.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Ted S. Yoho (R-FL), a member of the House Agriculture Committee, released the following statement on House passage of the Conference Report for the 2018 Farm Bill (H.R. 2): Today we have cleared the final hurdle to ensure America's farmers and ranchers have the certainty they need to produce the most affordable, highest quality food in the world. The hard-working families of our agriculture community put food on the table of over 300 million people every day. We are blessed to have such abundance provided by so few. The final vote we took today sets agriculture policy for the next five years. It was a long process, and I want to thank Chairman Conaway and his staff for all their hard work. While we did not get the common-sense reforms to the food stamp program, there are victories for our district and the state of Florida in this 2018 Farm Bill. We have retained the Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccine bank to help prevent devastating outbreaks of foot and mouth disease among our nation's livestock. We also secured the Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI) for the creation of the Citrus Trust Fund. This fund is vital to protecting Florida's billion-dollar citrus industry and will be instrumental in researching the causes of citrus disease (citrus greening) and how best to address the problem. Lastly, changes to the Research Facilities Act were included in the final bill and will help research universities, like the University of Florida, construct and improve their agricultural research facilities. A lot of good will come from these additions to the 2018 Farm Bill. I am honored to have had the opportunity to fight for them as a member of the House Agriculture Committee and a conferee. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://gaetz.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-matt-gaetz-grills-google-ceo-intentionally-silencing-conservatives | Congressman Matt Gaetz Grills Google CEO on Intentionally Silencing Conservatives | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Matt Gaetz | G000578 | gaetz.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01) today attended the House Judiciary Committee Hearing on Transparency & Accountability: Examining Google and its Data Collection, Use, and Filtering Practices. During the hearing, Rep. Gaetz pressed Sundar Pichai, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Google, about potential bias of Google employees. Rep. Gaetz's questions cited an employee-only group named Resist, and reports that employees discussed modifying Google's search algorithms to counter President Trump's January 2017 travel ban. A video and rough transcript of the exchange between Rep. Gaetz and Google CEO Sundar Pichai can be found below. CLICK HERE TO WATCH REP. GAETZ'S REMARKS AT THE HEARING TRANSCRIPT Rep. Gaetz: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Have you ever launched an experiment on whether political bias has messed with consumer experience? Google CEO: Through common sense, we look at them Rep. Gaetz: Have you specifically launched an investigation into political bias of your employees? Google CEO: On our employees, you said? Rep. Gaetz: Yes. Google CEO: To the extent we always take any allegations on code of conduct across every issue seriously and we look into them. Rep. Gaetz: You said to me yesterday that as a political bias, you haven't launched those investigations because there are so many redundancies and so much peer review that that would not be possible. Is that still your testimony today? Google CEO: Congressman, it's the way our processes work. If you need to make a change in our algorithms, there are several steps in the process including launch committees and user testing and guideline evaluation. Rep. Gaetz: But your company gets together and talks in groups, right, Google groups? Google CEO: Yes, they can. Rep. Gaetz: One of those groups is a civil rights group, right? Google CEO: We have many in which they can be included in the conversation, yes. Rep. Gaetz: Have you ever looked into the vista group? Google CEO: Congressman, no. Rep. Gaetz: Is that a surprise to you, that there is … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mast.house.gov/press-releases?ID=5623BE93-9E1F-486C-887A-E1B4CFE4A353 | House Passes Mast Resolution Condemning Assad Regime, Russia, Iran For Human Rights Atrocities in Syria | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Brian Mast | M001199 | mast.house.gov | legacy | Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lUA8XyhMza8 WASHINGTON, D.C. The United States House of Representatives today passed a resolution introduced by U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (FL-18) condemning the Assad regime and its backers, including Russia and Iran, for their continued support of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Syria. After seven years of war and the deaths of more than half of a million people, the atrocities of the Assad regime are still ongoing with the help of Russia and Iran, Rep. Mast said. The United States must push for an end to the violence and suffering in Syria and hold the perpetrators accountable. Among other provisions, the resolution calls on the President of the United States and Secretary of State to work towards a sustainable political transition in Syria that results in a government in Syria that is not a danger to its own people and to develop a strategy to prevent a permanent Iranian presence in Syria, understanding that the Russia Federation has not proven to be a viable partner to help in this effort. The full text of the resolution is available here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/bi-partisan-group-lawmakers-commend-final-passage-nica-act-sending-president%E2%80%99s-desk | Bi-Partisan Group of Lawmakers Commend Final Passage of NICA Act, Sending to Presidents Desk | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Bi-Partisan Group of Lawmakers Commend Final Passage of NICA Act, Sending to President's Desk Washington, DC Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), ChairmanEmeritusof the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, was joined by Senators Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Marco Rubio (R-FL), and Patrick Leahy (D-VT) as well as Representatives Eliot Engel (D-NY), Albio Sires (D-NJ), and Ed Royce (R-CA) in welcoming the final passage of H.R. 1918, the Nicaraguan Investment and Conditionality Act (NICA), which now heads to the President's desk to be signed into law. The NICA Act seeks to condition U.S. approval for loans to the Ortega regime from international financial institutions. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) introduced similar legislation, S. 2265, in the Senate. After its approval in the House on October 3, 2017, H.R. 1918 was amended in the Senate to include Senator Bob Menendez's (D-NJ) S. 3233, the Nicaragua Human Rights and Anticorruption Act of 2018, which seeks to impose additional sanctions on Nicaraguan regime officials, and which also included Senator Marco Rubio's (R-FL) amendment targeting the regime's enablers. The amended H.R. 1918 passed the House of Representatives on December 11, 2018 by unanimous consent. Statement by Ros-Lehtinen: I thank my colleagues in the House and Senate for passing the NICA Act that will help the Nicaraguan people break free of Ortega's despotic rule. I am especially thankful to Bob, Ted, Marco, Patrick, Eliot, Albio and Ed who joined me in this effort from the very beginning, as we witnessed years of Ortega's increased corruption and repression. With the final passage of the amended NICA Act, Congress took a leap forward in creating further accountability against the heinous abuses committed by Ortega and his puppets. In a desperate effort to cling to power, Ortega and his thugs have continued to clamp down on free speech and peaceful demonstrations. The United States has answered the call of the Nicaraguan people and will continue to do so in support of much needed electora… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/press-release/grupo-bipartidista-de-legisladores-celebra-la-aprobaci%C3%B3n-final-de-la-ley-nica | Grupo bipartidista de legisladores celebra la aprobacin final de la ley NICA, envindola al escritorio del Presidente | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ileana Ros-Lehtinen | R000435 | ros-lehtinen.house.gov | legacy | Grupo bipartidista de legisladores celebra la aprobacin final de la ley NICA, envindola al escritorio del Presidente Washington, DC La Representante Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Presidenta emrita del Comit de Asuntos Exteriores de la Cmara de Representantes, junto a los senadores Bob Menndez (D-NJ), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Marco Rubio (R-TX), y Patrick Leahy (D-VT) y los Representantes Eliot Engel (D-NY), Albio Sires (D-NJ), y Ed Royce (R-CA) dieron la bienvenida al proyecto de ley H.R. 1918, Nicaraguan Investment and Conditionality Act (NICA), que ahora se dirige al escritorio del Presidente para convertirse en ley. El proyecto NICA busca condicionar la aprobacin de los Estados Unidos para prstamos al rgimen de Ortega por parte de instituciones financieras internacionales. El Senador Ted Cruz (R-TX) presento una legislacin similar, S. 2265, en el Senado. Despus de su aprobacin en la Cmara el 3 de octubre de 2017, H.R. 1918 se modific en el Senado para incluir el proyecto de ley del Senador Bob Menendez (D-NJ) S. 3233, la Ley de Anticorrupcin y Derechos Humanos de Nicaragua de 2018, que busca imponer sanciones adicionales a funcionarios del rgimen nicaragense, y la cual tambin incluye la enmienda del Senador Marco Rubio (R-FL) dirigida a los facilitadores del rgimen. El H.R. 1918 enmendado fue aprobado por unanimidad en la Cmara de Representantes el 11 de diciembre de 2018. Declaracin de Ros-Lehtinen: Agradezco a mis colegas de la Cmara de Representantes y el Senado por aprobar la Ley NICA que ayudar a los nicaragenses a liberarse del control desptico de Ortega. Estoy especialmente agradecida a Bob, Ted, Marco, Patrick, Eliot, Albio y Ed que se unieron conmigo en este esfuerzo desde el principio, ya que fuimos testigos del aumento de la corrupcin y la represin en Ortega durante muchos aos. Con la aprobacin final de la Ley NICA enmendada, el Congreso dio un salto adelante para responsabilizar a Ortega y sus tteres por los abusos cometidos. En un esfuerzo desesperado por aferrarse al poder, Ortega y sus matones han seguido… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=398AB753-7052-4426-8E92-6922102ECBDA | Rubio Urges Google CEO to Abandon Plans for Censored Search Engine in China | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) urged Google CEO Sundar Pichai to abandon plans for Dragonfly, a censored version of its search engine in China. In the letter, Rubio states that if Google moves forward with their plans to build a censored search engine, the company will become bedfellows with the Chinese people's oppressors, rather than with those who are oppressed. In August, Rubio led a bipartisan group of Senators who raised concerns to Google CEO Pichai about the company's Dragonfly plans in China. The full text of the letter is below. Dear Mr. Pichai: In an August 2018 letter, I led a bipartisan group of U.S. Senators in expressing our alarm about Google's reported plans to launch Dragonfly, a censored version of its search engine in China that would prohibit websites and search terms deemed objectionable by the Chinese Government and Communist Party. Such plans, we warned, risk making Google complicit in human rights abuses in China, including the government's onerous censorship regime and authoritarian surveillance state that targets its own citizens with the aims of crushing dissent, free expression and any perceived threat to the Chinese Communist Party. As the Congressional-Executive Commission on China recently heard harrowing testimony from a young Uyghur woman who survived the so-called political reeducation camps in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Regionwhere the Chinese government has forcibly interned a million or more Uyghur and other ethnic minority Muslims in what, I believe, amounts to crimes against humanitynews reports emerged that Google, under your leadership, excluded the company's security and privacy teams in key meetings about the then-nascent Dragonfly project and sidelined a privacy review of the plan that sought to address potential human rights abuses. Indeed, it appears that Google leadership has evaded for months critical and legitimate questions about the implications of its Dragonfly search engine plans for human rights and human lives in China, even despite th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=48E61B60-9526-40AA-8186-59168EDCC2AD | Rubio Joins Colleagues In Introducing Resolution Honoring Human Rights Day | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington D.C. - U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined Senators Chris Coons (D-DE.), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Todd Young (R-IN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Bob Casey (D-PA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), John Boozman (R-AK), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and U.S. Representative Alan Lowenthal (D-CA-47) in introducing resolutions in the United States Senate and House of Representatives honoring Human Rights Day and the 70thanniversary of the United Nations' ratification of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.The full text of the resolution is below.Designating December 10, 2018, as Human Rights Day'' and recognizing the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.Whereas the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations on December 10, 1948, represents the first comprehensive agreement among countries as to the specific rights and freedoms of all human beings;Whereas the Universal Declaration of Human Rights upholds the basic principles of liberty and freedom enshrined in the Constitution of the United States and the Bill of Rights;Whereas the Declaration on the Right and Responsibility of Individuals, Groups and Organs of Society to Promote and Protect Universally Recognized Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms (known as the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders'') was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 9, 1998;Whereas awareness of human rights(1) is essential to the realization of fundamental freedoms;(2) promotes equality;(3) contributes to preventing conflict and human rights violations; and(4) enhances participation in democratic processes;Whereas Congress has a proud history of promoting human rights that are internationally recognized; andWhereas December 1… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=A926BFA8-EABE-4852-A30E-9FA138CA2CC0 | Video: Rubio: We Cannot Be A Strong Country, If We Do Not Have Strong Communities, Strong Families, And Strong People | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. Today, at the American Principles Project State Lunch, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) honored the late Jeff Bell, who passed earlier this year. Jeff Bell was a champion of creating an economy to benefit the American worker and families.A full transcript of Rubio's remarks is below. Rubio: Thank you, Jon, for that introduction. I especially want to thank Sean Fieler, the chairman of the board of APP. There is no more creative or entrepreneurial leader on the right of center today and I thank you for all of the ways you are advancing our common principles. He also paid me 50 bucks to say that, I'm kidding it was only 25. So thank you very much for having me, I'm grateful for the chance to talk to you. So, Jeff Bell, who is being honored as the namesake of today's event. Was really an intellectual force of courage and for hope for our country. His clarity of vision you know, inspired some of our most important leaders over the last thirty years, from Jack Kemp to the great Ronald Reagan. And so I think it's appropriate in a time when we conservatives, I think are grappling with what our movement means in this new era, we're gathered here today to discuss some of that. And I think it's important to for us to think about that issue, he said, that the simplicity beyond the complexity. It's a simple truth, America is not a government America is not an economy, America is a nation. America is a nation made up of workers, and families, and communities, and Americans are a diverse people in need of a unifying national identity that binds us together, as one. Now we dedicate plenty of time and energy talking about complex policy problems and coming up with complex policy solutions and that's important. But as we gather, as you do here over the ne… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=E7147415-608B-4A0D-9A9A-629EBD621773 | Rubio Urges FEMA To Expedite Housing Resources in Florida Counties Affected By Hurricane Michael | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) urged Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Brock Long to accelerate the implementation of approved housing resources desperately needed in areas affected by Hurricane Michael.Direct Housing Assistance was approved in Bay, Calhoun, Jackson, Gadsden and Gulf counties on October 29, 2018. However, many survivors remain homeless and in need of already approved federal resources to address their housing needs. Specifically, Bay County, one of the hardest hit areas, has yet to receive much needed housing resources.A full list of Rubio's efforts for Floridians affected by Hurricane Michael can be found here.The full text of the letter is below.Dear Administrator Long:Thank you for providing personnel and resources to the Hurricane Michael Recovery Assistance Center my office organized in Panama City last week. The ability for survivors to receive on-site assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) was extremely helpful. However, I write to express concern regarding FEMA's implementation of desperately needed housing resources in areas affected by Hurricane Michael. While FEMA approved the State of Florida's request for Direct Housing Assistance on October 29, 2018, reports have indicated that these resources have not been implemented with necessary urgency as countless families are still waiting for housing resources that were approved six weeks ago.While I recognize the difficult task FEMA faces with the level of destruction caused by Hurricane Michael, a delay of this length constitutes a failure to address the housing needs of affected survivors. According to reports, Bay County District Schools is currently facing the highest number of homeless students the distri… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=F6AA3EDF-8200-4B19-B6B2-6C3C27F1BD1F | Rubio Statement on Senate Farm Bill Vote | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released the following statement after voting against the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (2018 Farm Bill):The farm bill released late last night fails to do what is necessary to protect farmers, working families, and taxpayers. The conference committee had an opportunity to take the best provisions from both the Senate and House farm bills, but instead it appears to have combined the worst elements into legislation that I simply cannot support. When I voted for the Senate Farm Bill it was to advance the legislative process, with the goal being a five-year farm bill that would give Florida farmers much-needed confidence following the devastation of Hurricane Irma and the prospects of an uncertain trade future. The conferees failed to meet that standard. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://yoho.house.gov/media-center/blog/recognize-taiwan-as-the-country-it-truly-is | Recognize Taiwan as the country it truly is | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ted Yoho | Y000065 | yoho.house.gov | legacy | As seen in the Taipei Times on 12/11/18 By Ted Yoho A high-ranking member of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) visited my office for a friendly discussion about the numerous difficulties in US-China relations. We talked about a number of issues some of them very difficult but even in that informal setting, Taiwan was a non-negotiable core interest of the party, with no place in the discussion. The US should no longer accept these terms when talking to China. If we accept the false narrative that Taiwan is somehow off-limits, we are implicitly accepting the party's lie that Taiwan's status is a domestic matter, and we are contributing to Taiwan's marginalization. It is time that the US, China and the rest of the world treat Taiwan as Taiwan deserves to be treated. Taiwan exists today as a sovereign state, a status it has earned through the mandate of its people, its democratic institutions and its stewardship of personal freedoms and human rights. Taiwan is a state and treating this fact as if it is off-limits in international affairs is simply a refusal to acknowledge reality. The facts are self-evident: China's authoritarian government, dominated by the CCP, has never ruled Taiwan. Today, Taiwan is a flourishing democracy with its own economy, education system, military, sovereign borders, political parties, national anthem and flag. Taiwan is one of the US' largest trading partners, a leader in high-tech manufacturing and a model contributor to the international community, with an especially distinguished record in public health crises. With overwhelming bipartisan consensus, the US Congress passed the veto-proof Taiwan Relations Act to defend Taiwan from invasion and to protect its de facto sovereignty creating a 40-year alliance relationship in all but name. The CCP tries to obscure this reality, because Taiwan's existence is a threat to the party's hold on power. The party stokes grievances against former colonial powers to shore up its legitimacy. Admitting the independent success of a place once rule… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://yoho.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/recognize-taiwan-as-the-country-it-truly-is | Recognize Taiwan as the country it truly is | 2018-12-11 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ted Yoho | Y000065 | yoho.house.gov | legacy | A high-ranking member of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) visited my office for a friendly discussion about the numerous difficulties in US-China relations. We talked about a number of issues some of them very difficult but even in that informal setting, Taiwan was a non-negotiable core interest of the party, with no place in the discussion. The US should no longer accept these terms when talking to China. If we accept the false narrative that Taiwan is somehow off-limits, we are implicitly accepting the party's lie that Taiwan's status is a domestic matter, and we are contributing to Taiwan's marginalization. It is time that the US, China and the rest of the world treat Taiwan as Taiwan deserves to be treated. Taiwan exists today as a sovereign state, a status it has earned through the mandate of its people, its democratic institutions and its stewardship of personal freedoms and human rights. Taiwan is a state and treating this fact as if it is off-limits in international affairs is simply a refusal to acknowledge reality. The facts are self-evident: China's authoritarian government, dominated by the CCP, has never ruled Taiwan. Today, Taiwan is a flourishing democracy with its own economy, education system, military, sovereign borders, political parties, national anthem and flag. Taiwan is one of the US' largest trading partners, a leader in high-tech manufacturing and a model contributor to the international community, with an especially distinguished record in public health crises. With overwhelming bipartisan consensus, the US Congress passed the veto-proof Taiwan Relations Act to defend Taiwan from invasion and to protect its de facto sovereignty creating a 40-year alliance relationship in all but name. The CCP tries to obscure this reality, because Taiwan's existence is a threat to the party's hold on power. The party stokes grievances against former colonial powers to shore up its legitimacy. Admitting the independent success of a place once ruled by Imperial Japan would undercut the party's false ve… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases/rutherford-honors-students-nominated-service-academies-0 | Rutherford Honors Students Nominated to Service Academies | 2018-12-10 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | John H. Rutherford | R000609 | rutherford.house.gov | rutherford | https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Jacksonville, FL – Congressman John Rutherford (FL-04) is pleased to announce the nominations of 43 students to be considered for appointments to the United States Air Force Academy, United States Merchant Marine Academy, United States Military Academy, and the United States Naval Academy. At a recent ceremony at the University of North Florida, Congressman Rutherford offered a congratulatory message of encouragement and presented each student with a certificate signifying their achievement. Each student completed a rigorous application process and underwent an interview with a panel of former military officers, who are service academy graduates themselves, before being selected for a nomination to one of our nation's service academies. Congressman Rutherford said: "One of the greatest privileges I have as Representative is working with inspiring young men and women seeking appointments to one of our national service academies. These outstanding students are tasked with ensuring America remains the strongest beacon of hope and freedom in the world, and I am confident that those we have nominated possess the leadership, integrity, and commitment to represent our country honorably at these prestigious academies. I look forward to supporting these exceptional young leaders as they progress through their careers." Each year, thousands of students from across the country apply to attend our nation's service academies. Students must undergo a two-step process to receive an appointment to any of the academies. They must apply for a nomination from the President, a Congressman, or a Senator and simultaneously complete the application criteria for admission to the academy. Students who receive both a nomination and are accepted to an academy receive an appointment to the institution. United States Air Force Academy Troy David Barber, Allen D. Nease High School Ashley Nicole Booth, St. Augustine High School McAnarney Slater Borngesser, Florida State University Tatiana Christina Brown, Bartram Trail High School Jos… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z |
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0060CEFD-0D4D-4D68-8C3E-F4DFC23C8345 | Rubio, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Resolution To Establish A Human Rights Commission In Honor Of Senator John McCain | 2018-12-10 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Todd Young (R-IN), Ed Markey (D-MA) in introducing a bipartisan resolution to establish a John S. McCain III Human Rights Commission, modeled after the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission in the U.S. House of Representatives. The resolution would create a commission to examine human rights violations through regular hearings and briefings, and promote human rights initiatives in the Senate.This proposed commission would honor Senator John McCain, who dedicated his life to promoting and protecting the democratic and moral values that we as Americans cherish, Rubio said. In the Senate, he was a tireless champion for the God-given rights of all people and worked to expose violations of human dignity in the darkest corners of the world. Today, on the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, I am proud to join my colleagues in continuing that work in the days ahead.Senator McCain was a remarkable man who used his role in the Senate to advocate for human rights and to stand up for people around the world who were denied basic freedoms. He embodied our country's values and understood the critical role of the United States in promoting human rightsacrosstheglobe,Coons said .I am hopeful that we can advance this legislation and honor Senator McCain's legacy by establishing a bipartisan commission here in the Senate that is dedicated to raising awareness about human rights abusesand promoting human liberty around the world.Our late friend and colleague John McCain understood that promoting and defending human rights was a cornerstone of America's foreign policy and an inherent way of advancing American values, fr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=86D2A1CA-9A36-46A4-BD55-2A409C6B0D85 | ADVISORY: TOMORROW: Rubio Speaks at American Principles Project State Lunch | 2018-12-10 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. Tomorrow, at approximately 1:00 P.M. EST, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) will speak at the American Principles Project State Lunch to honor the late Jeff Bell, who passed earlier this year. Jeff Bell was a champion of creating an economy to benefit the American worker and families. Rubio will discuss the importance of rebuilding the pillars of American life: work, family, community and country. Rubio's remarks at the American Principles Project's State Lunch will be live streamed on his Facebook page.To RSVP please email Paul Dupont at: pdupont@americanprinciplesproject.orgTuesday, December 11, 2018Rubio speaks at American Principles Project State LunchApproximately 1:00 P.M. ESTAmerican Principles Project State LunchWashington, D.C. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://yoho.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/the-new-arms-race-american-businesses-vs-china-s-government-money | The new arms race: American businesses vs. Chinas government money | 2018-12-10 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Ted Yoho | Y000065 | yoho.house.gov | legacy | How we outsourced foreign aid to private companies In early October, the Trump administration formally rebooted development aid to compete with China's expansive aid program that seeks to create a new world order for trade. The maneuver was part of the administration's response to China's state-driven Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a program that will spend an estimated $1 trillion on development projects in Asia and Africa that aims to boost China's global and regional influence by investing in foreign countries. True to its capitalist philosophy, the United States' answer to BRI involves empowering private capital in new ways. The administration argues that such initiatives are a crucial means of competing with China and, therefore, supporting national security. Its mostambitious gambit, signed into law by President Trump on Oct. 5, is the innocuously named International Development Finance Corporation (IDFC). IDFC is an attempt to assert soft power by financing and insuring American business investments in the developing world. ADVERTISEMENT IDFC represents the latest in a line of government programs animated by the belief that development aid, funneled through private corporations, makes the United States stronger and safer and better situated to triumph in an era of great power competition. Development aid was a mainstay of Cold War competition between the United States and the Soviet Union. President Harry S. Truman cemented it into the United States' national security policy at the start of the Cold War via the Marshall Plan and the Point Four program. The idea behind development aid was that secure, prosperous societies were more likely to have stable, democratic governments, making it a vital, if expensive, tool in U.S. efforts to thwart communism. The Vietnam War and a balance-of-payments crisis in the late 1960s demanded a rethinking of aid as the American public turned away from using taxpayer money for development assistance. The U.S. foreign aid program is in major crisis, Henry Kissinger warned P… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=F0C74675-F48F-4FDE-AAB5-474D0E400BBE | Video: Rubio: Chinese Companies Are Not Like American Companies | 2018-12-09 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Orlando, FL U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) appeared on CBS's Face the Nation this morning to discuss the threat Chinese state-directed telecommunications companies, like Huawei and ZTE, pose to our national security and economic interests. VIDEO: On Face the Nation, Rubio discusses the threat of Chinese telecom companies, Huawei & ZTE We have to understand, Chinese companies are not like American companies. We can't even get Apple to crack an iPhone for us in a terrorist investigation. There isn't a single company in China that doesn't have to do whatever the government tells them to do. They are legally required to do it, and trust me if they don't do it, they'll find a new CEO to run that company, or a new company to take that company's place. When the Chinese ask a telecoms company, We want you to turn over all the data you've gathered in a country you're operating in,' they will do it. No court order, nothing like that, they will just do it. They have to. We need to understand that. I sure hope so. I hope we do. Because I think both Huawei, ZTE and multiple other Chinese companies pose a threat to our national interests our national economic interests, and our national security interests. And the Huawei case, what they're accused of here, what she's accused of, is violating the Iran sanctions. So at a minimum, we should be doing to them what we did to ZTE when they violated the sanctions law. Which included not having access to American suppliers. And I hope that's what will happen. That's what we're encouraging the administration to do as soon as possible. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://dunn.house.gov/2018/12/dunn-commends-air-force-on-f-35-squadrons-coming-to-tyndall | Dunn Commends Air Force on F-35 Squadrons Coming to Tyndall | 2018-12-07 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Neal Dunn | D000628 | dunn.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02) commended Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson today for announcing Tyndall Air Force Base as the future home to three squadrons of F-35s. The announcement comes as Tyndall is working to rebuild after Hurricane Michael devastated the base in October. These squadrons of F-35s are the future of the Air Force and will strengthen our national security, while reinforcing the role of our airmen at Tyndall Air Force Base. It's clear the Air Force recognizes the importance of investing in Tyndall as a part of our defense strategy and we are working to get the base back to mission ready capability as soon as possible, said Dr. Dunn. Bringing these next generation warplanes to Tyndall is in line with our efforts to rebuild a modern and state-of-the-art Air Force base post-Hurricane Michael. I look forward to working with the defense community to bring these squadrons in for a landing in our community. Tyndall will become a purpose-built base for the 5th generation fighter with the addition of the F-35 squadrons. These squadrons will bring as many as 72 F-35s to Tyndall by 2023. Dr. Dunn has worked tirelessly to ensure Tyndall Air Force Base is rebuilt in the wake of Hurricane Michael. He has secured commitments from leaders at all levels of government that the base will be rebuilt, including President Trump, Vice President Pence, Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson, and other national leaders. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=221 | Dunn Commends Air Force on F-35 Squadrons Coming to Tyndall | 2018-12-07 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Neal P. Dunn | D000628 | dunn.house.gov | dunn | https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 | scraper | Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02) commended Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson today for announcing Tyndall Air Force Base as the future home to three squadrons of F-35s. The announcement comes as Tyndall is working to rebuild after Hurricane Michael devastated the base in October. “These squadrons of F-35s are the future of the Air Force and will strengthen our national security, while reinforcing the role of our airmen at Tyndall Air Force Base. It’s clear the Air Force recognizes the importance of investing in Tyndall as a part of our defense strategy and we are working to get the base back to mission ready capability as soon as possible,” said Dr. Dunn. “Bringing these next generation warplanes to Tyndall is in line with our efforts to rebuild a modern and state-of-the-art Air Force base post-Hurricane Michael. I look forward to working with the defense community to bring these squadrons in for a landing in our community.” Tyndall will become a purpose-built base for the 5th generation fighter with the addition of the F-35 squadrons. These squadrons will bring as many as 72 F-35s to Tyndall by 2023. Dr. Dunn has worked tirelessly to ensure Tyndall Air Force Base is rebuilt in the wake of Hurricane Michael. He has secured commitments from leaders at all levels of government that the base will be rebuilt, including President Trump, Vice President Pence, Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson, and other national leaders. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z |
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=4193F1AD-3508-4F2D-9950-691AB961E19D | Rubio Welcomes Air Force Recommendation to Rebuild Tyndall Air Force Base | 2018-12-07 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Miami, FL. Today,U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) welcomed the Air Force's recommendation that Congress use supplemental funding for rebuilding the base to prepare to receive the F-35 fighter at the north Florida installation. Earlier today Rubio wrote an op-ed in the Panama City News-Herald urging the Department of Defense to fully rebuild Tyndall Air Force Base.After working closely with the U.S. Air Force to ensure Tyndall Air Force Base is fully rebuilt, the Air Force is asking Congress for the funds necessary to rebuild and receive the F-35 fighter jet. This announcement is great news not only for national security, but also for the people of Florida, Rubio said. I thank Secretary Wilson for her efforts, and I will continue working with my colleagues to get a disaster supplemental before the end of the year so that Tyndall and the communities in the Panhandle are fully restored in the aftermath of Hurricane Michael. While Tyndall has a long road to full recovery, I am proud of what the base leadership, Air Force personnel and their families have been able to accomplish in the weeks since the storm destroyed most of the base. I remain committed to seeing that Tyndall is fully rebuilt.More Information On The Announcement Tyndall's access to 130,000 square miles of airspace over the Gulf of Mexico provides a capability unmatched anywhere else in the world and will allow the F-35s to utilized to its maximum potential. The F-35s could be based at Tyndall beginning in 2023. Basing already announced in Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Florida, Texas, Utah, Vermon, and Wisconsin will not be affected by this decision. Before the storm, Tyndall was home to the 325th Fighter Wing--comprised of two F-22 Raptor squadrons. One was operational and one was training… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=C00E6B78-582F-43A0-AEEE-237FFE9E16BB | Next Week: Rubio Staff Hosts Mobile Office Hours | 2018-12-07 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Miami, FL The office of U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) will host Mobile Office Hours next week to assist constituents with federal casework issues in their communities. These office hours offer constituents who do not live close to regional offices a more convenient way to receive federal casework assistance. Tuesday, December 11, 2018 Brevard County 2:30pm-4:30pm Sunflower House 777 E Merritt Island Cswy. Merritt Island, FL 32952 Manatee County 1:00pm 5:00pm EDT Manatee Chamber of Commerce 4215 Concept Court Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211 Wednesday, December 12, 2018 Marion County 12:30pm-2:30pm Marion County Library 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd. Ocala, FL 34470 Hernando County 1:00pm 5:00pm EDT Frederick Eugene Lykes Jr. Memorial Library 238 Howell Ave Brooksville, FL 34601 Thursday, December 13, 2018 Baker County 9:00am 11:00am EST Baker County Board of County Commissioners 55 N. 3rd St Macclenny, FL 32063 Sumter County 10:00am-12:00pm Laurel Manor Rec Center 1985 Laurel Manor Drive The Villages, FL 32162 Seminole County 1:30pm-4:00pm Seminole County Library In Conjunction w/ Seminole County Legal Aid Society 215 N Oxford Rd. Casselberry, FL 32707 Pasco County 1:00pm 5:00pm Pasco County Government Center 8731 Citizens Drive New Port Richey, FL 34654 Miami- Dade County 12pm-3pm Naranja Branch Library 14850 SW 280th St Homestead, FL 33032 Friday, December 14, 2018 Orange County 2:00pm-4:00pm United Against Poverty 150 W Michigan St Orlando, FL 32806 Citrus County 1:00pm 5:00pm EDT Citrus County Chamber of Commerce 915 N. Suncoast Blvd Crystal River, FL 34429 Polk County 2:00pm 5:00pm EDT Lakeland Public Library Main 100 Lake Morton Drive Lakeland, Florida, 33801 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-members-commemorate-one-year-anniversary-president-donald-trumps-official | House Members Commemorate One-Year Anniversary of President Donald Trump's Official Recognition of Jerusalem as the Capital of Israel | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Gus Bilirakis | B001257 | bilirakis.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congressman Andy Biggs and 42 cosponsors introduced a resolution to commemorate the one-year anniversary of President Donald Trump's official recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Israel and the announcement of his intention to relocate the American embassy to Jerusalem. Congressman Biggs, along with many of the cosponsors, released the following statements: Israel is one of the United States' most enduring allies, and President Trump kept a significant promise by recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital and announcing his intention to move our embassy to Jerusalem. That embassy was opened in Jerusalem earlier this year. These milestones signify our commitment to our ally. I thank my many colleagues who joined me in this resolution. Congressman Andy Biggs (AZ-05) I am pleased to be an original cosponsor on this important legislation. This year has marked a restoration of the U.S.-Israel relationship. President Trump's moving of the U.S. Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem was monumental not because he is the first president to promise this move, but because he is the only president who made good on that promise. I have supported moving the embassy since my start in Congress and am proud to have seen it come to fruition. I want to thank my colleague Rep. Biggs for initiating this great commemoration and for working with me collaboratively on the final bill. Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-05) Today, we celebrate the one-year anniversary of President Trump's momentous decision to move the U.S. Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to the recognized capital of Jerusalem. During his campaign, President Trump committed to finally make this move, and I applaud him displaying strong leadership and courageous action in support of one of America's closest allies in the world. House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (LA-01) My support remains unwavering for President Trump's courageous and just decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. This decision is a profound … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-secures-first-federal-investment-in-support-of-smart-plan | Diaz-Balart Secures First Federal Investment in Support of SMART Plan | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | legacy | MIAMI Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25), Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, today announced that Miami-Dade County was awarded a $9.5 million U.S. Department of Transportation BUILD grant. As House Appropriations Transportation Subcommittee Chairman, I am grateful to be in a position to bring much-needed dollars home. For years, I have told the County that I am willing and able to help fund their transit needs, once a viable plan had been submitted. To their credit the County has finally taken real, tangible steps forward with the SMART Plan over the last several months, and I commend their progress. As the County continues to work with DOT, specifically the Federal Transit Administration, on the project development phase of the South Corridor Rapid Transit Project, I stand ready to assist in any way possible. True to my word, in my working with the Administration and with the County's application moving forward at DOT, here is the first installment of federal dollars to compliment the implementation of the SMART Plan. The BUILD grant for Miami-Dade County will help support the continued growth and expansion of the South-Dade Transitway corridor. Specifically, the grant will help increase capacity at two park-and-ride facilities along the corridor, directly supporting the County TPO's vote to move toward bus-rapid transit. Expanding transit in our community is critical to alleviating the traffic and gridlock that we face daily, and I am grateful for these much-needed dollars. I thank Secretary Chao for continuing to invest in our community's transportation sector, and for providing the County with opportunities to improve and upgrade our infrastructure. I look forward to continue working with her to expand Southern Florida's transit systems and will keep fighting for the funds necessary to do so. As House Appropriations Transportation Subcommittee Chairman, Diaz-Balart has worked with the Administration and Secretary Chao to deliver significant… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases/rutherford-announces-25-million-federal-funds-jacksonville | Rutherford Announces $25 million in Federal Funds for Jacksonville | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | John H. Rutherford | R000609 | rutherford.house.gov | rutherford | https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. - Today, the Department of Transportation (DOT) awarded two Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grants that will provide $25 million in federal funding for important projects in Downtown Jacksonville. Jacksonville Transit Authority (JTA) will receive $12.5 million to fund their Bay Street Innovation Corridor, and the City of Jacksonville will receive $12.5 million to fund the Urban Core Riverfront Revitalization projects. Congressman John Rutherford, who is a member of the powerful House Appropriations Committee, sits on the subcommittee that funds DOT and has used that position to strongly advocate for these grant projects in Washington. Following today's announcement, Congressman Rutherford said: "This federal investment in improving our transportation infrastructure and applying new technologies to our transit system are key to the next stages of growth for Jacksonville. The City of Jacksonville and JTA projects will make our urban core safer, more dynamic, and easier to get around. As the 13th largest city in the country, Jacksonville must aggressively maintain and develop its transportation infrastructure to attract further investment and business development. Safe, efficient transportation systems ensure that our residents and visitors have access to jobs and local attractions. I have worked tirelessly with my colleagues in Congress and leaders in the Jacksonville community to make these BUILD grants a reality, and I remain committed to ensuring Northeast Florida continues to thrive as an economic powerhouse in the Southeastern U.S." The City of Jacksonville will demolish the Hart Bridge Expressway and construct a ramp from the Hart Bridge to Bay Street/Gator Bowl Boulevard. At street level, a Complete Street will be constructed to include traffic calming measures and bicycle and pedestrian paths. The JTA project will deploy approximately 15 autonomous vehicles, dynamic connected traffic signals, smart lighting, pedestrian sensors, smart parking, and flood warnin… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z |
| https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases/rutherford-leads-bipartisan-letter-opposing-seismic-testing-atlantic | Rutherford Leads Bipartisan Letter Opposing Seismic Testing in the Atlantic | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | John H. Rutherford | R000609 | rutherford.house.gov | rutherford | https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Rutherford led a bipartisan letter signed by 93 members of Congress to Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross urging that they not allow seismic testing in the Atlantic to move forward. The letter is in response to the administration's announcement last week to issue five Incidental Harassment Authorizations, or IHAs, which advance permit applications for seismic airgun blasting in the Atlantic. This is a major step toward opening areas of the Atlantic off the coast of Florida to energy exploration. Following the release of today's letter, Congressman Rutherford said: "I was disappointed to see NOAA Fisheries advance efforts to conduct seismic testing off our Atlantic Coast – the first step to offshore drilling. I am very concerned about the effects seismic testing would have on vulnerable marine mammal populations and other marine life, but I also have many questions about how this will impact naval operations and training missions that operate off the East Coast. We have very little information on what this would mean for our national security, the health of our recovering fisheries, or our coastal economies. Not to mention that any data collected about oil and gas reserves off our coast would be proprietary, meaning neither the public nor government officials would have access to this information. I am encouraged by today's strong showing of bipartisan opposition to opening the Atlantic to seismic testing." | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z |
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=74D9AF77-7F90-4866-B497-4C7BF0BA047F | Jacksonville Projects 'Take Big Step Forward' After Rubio, Mayor Curry Secure Federal Grants | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry issued statements after the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced two Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant awards for Jacksonville, totaling $25 million. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Rubio secured funding for DOT's BUILD grant program that will enhance infrastructure across Florida. Working with Mayor Curry, I'm proud to have helped secure federal funding for Jacksonville Transit Authority's Bay Street Innovation Corridor, and the City of Jacksonville's Urban Core Riverfront Revitalization and Complete Streets project. These innovative projects will help increase connectivity, enhance safety and security, and promote smarter growth for the city of Jacksonville, Rubio said. Innovation matters to Jacksonville. Innovation matters to D.C., said Mayor Lenny Curry, City of Jacksonville. This grant award adds merit to our work and demonstrates the confidence that our national leaders and partners like Senator Rubio and Secretary Chao have for the work we are leading in Jacksonville to improve safety, increase economic competitiveness, and support environmental protection efforts. Jacksonville BUILD Grant Awards: Bay Street Innovation Corridor: $12,537,500 to the Jacksonville Transportation Authority.Through private and public collaboration, the Bay Street Innovation Corridor will transform downtown mobility, enhancing safety, efficiency and accessibility along a vital corridor in Downtown Jacksonville. Advancing the deployment of autonomous shuttles and new technologies, this project will energize the corridor for smart city innovations and emerging technologies incubator, supporting the economic development activity and redevelopment opportunities. This project implements initial elements of the JTA's Ultimate Urban Circulator Program and the North Florida TPO's Smart Region Initiative. Urban Core Riverfront Revitalization and Complete Streets: $12,462,500 to… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=86D0D5F2-3410-409B-AE4A-B52ACBC5C5A9 | Rubio, Brown Introduce Bill to Reinstate Small Businesses' Right to Notice | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. Today,U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH) introduced (S.3717) the Small Business Fair Lending Act, legislation that seeks to protect small businesses by closing a loophole used by nefarious lenders, and allowing the ability for them to be heard in a court of law. The bill codifies the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) 1985 ban on confessions of judgement, and extends it to include small business borrowers. Confessions of judgment require a borrower to give up his or her rights in court before obtaining a loan, and allows the lender to seize the borrower's assets, without warning, in order to satisfy the debt. Although many states have banned this practice for small business loans and for individuals, borrowers remain exposed due to the current FTC loophole. The Small Business Lending Fairness Act provides small businesses with the same protections consumers already have. Last month, Bloomberg published an in-depth investigative report on this unscrupulous lending tactic, which has allowed creditors to destroy the lives of tens of thousands of borrowers without notice or opportunity for defense.With this new bill, we are taking another step toward protecting America's small businessesthe foundation of our economyby preserving the right of a business to be heard in a court of law before a potential credit default, Rubio said. I remain committed to protecting our small businesses, and I hope my colleagues will join me in this effort by passing this bill.When we let financial predators harm hardworking Americans through scams like confessions of judgment, we undermine the dignity of work that makes this country great, said Brown. This bipartisan bill ensures that consumers and small business owners benefit from protecti… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=9BF78C33-1AC8-4285-ADE8-502D4CE7EED1 | Rubio Bill to Spur Small Business Investment Heads to President's Desk | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) today hailed the Senate passage of the Spurring Business in Communities Act, legislation that he introduced with U.S. Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) to allow more Small Business Investment Companies (SBICs) to form and invest in Florida, Washington state, and other under-licensed states. The House passed the legislation on May 8, 2018, and it now heads to the president's desk to be signed into law. This bill will help to keep and encourage more investment in Florida's economy, instead of being shoe-horned into Wall Street and Silicon Valley, said Rubio. I'll continue to fight for Florida's economy, and I look forward to the president signing this important bill into law.Small businesses are the engines of our Made in Wisconsin economy and if we increase the amount of startup funding in states like Wisconsin, we can create new jobs and grow our economy, said Baldwin. Wisconsin has lagged in business start-up activity and I have worked to change that. This legislation will help carry on Wisconsin's proud history of entrepreneurship and innovation by providing more support to our small business start-ups, and I'm looking forward to the President signing this bill into law. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=A77E84B8-847B-4830-8802-2E7FA52ECDA0 | Rubio, Representative Daz-Balart, Commissioner Bovo Secure Federal Grant for Miami-Dade County | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), U.S. Representative Mario Daz-Balart (R-FL), and Miami-Dade County Commissioner Esteban Bovo, Jr. issued statements after the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced a $9.5 million Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant award for Miami-Dade County's South Dade Transitway Park-and-Ride Improvement project. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Rubio secured funding for DOT's BUILD grant program that will enhance infrastructure across Florida. I'm pleased to see that the Department of Transportation has awarded a grant for the Miami-Dade Park & Ride Improvement project, Rubio said. This funding is an important step in the implementation of the SMART Plan, and will improve two park-and-ride facilities by resurfacing an existing parking lot, constructing additional sidewalks to improve pedestrian access, and creating additional parking spaces to increase availability and comfort for visitors. As House Appropriations Transportation Subcommittee Chairman, I am grateful to be in a position to bring much-needed dollars home, Representative Daz-Balart said. The County has finally taken real, tangible steps forward with the SMART Plan over the last several months. By working with the Administration, we have secured the first federal funding to compliment the implementation of that plan. This BUILD grant for Miami-Dade County will help support the continued growth and expansion of the South-Dade Transitway corridor, as it continues to move through the project development stage at the Federal Transit Administration. Specifically, the grant will help increase capacity at two park-and-ride facilities along the corridor, directly supporting the County TPO's vote to move toward bus-rapid transit. Expanding transit in our community is critical to alleviating the traffic and gridlock that we face daily. I thank Secretary Chao for continuing to invest in our community's transportation sector, and I look forward to con… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=ABA6E60A-41DE-498C-9C48-DE9DECA5459D | Rubio Statement On Canada's Arrest of Huawei Executive | 2018-12-06 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released the following statement following the Canadian government's arrest of Meng Wanzhou, the chief financial officer of Huawei:The arrest of Huawei's CFO by the Canadian government for potential violations of Iran sanctions is welcome and I urge prompt extradition to the U.S. Huawei has direct ties to the Chinese government and Communist Party, has long posed a serious risk to US national security, and I continue to strongly urge Canada to reconsider Huawei's inclusion in any aspect of its 5G development, introduction, and maintenance.Rubio Actions on Huawei: On June 20, 2018, Rubio and Congressman Jim Banks raised several concerns with Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos on Chinese state-directed Huawei Technologies' partnerships with U.S. universities that may pose a significant threat to national security. On October 12, 2018, Rubio and Senator Warner urged Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to reconsider Huawei's inclusion in any aspect of Canada's 5G development, introduction, and maintenance. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0984BAAF-35E7-492A-AB8B-03B01E702DC3 | Senators Condemn Saudi Crown Prince for Killing of Jamal Khashoggi and Call for Accountability | 2018-12-05 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) today joined Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Ed Markey (D-MA) Todd Young (R-IN) and Chris Coons (D-DE) in introducing a Senate Resolution that urges the Administration to hold accountable the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman and all parties involved for the murder of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi.Our values as Americans must be central to our foreign policy. Saudi Arabia is an important ally but not an ally at any cost. There is no doubt that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman knew about the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, condoned it, and at worst was actually involved in directing it, Rubio said. The U.S. must demand accountability and press for the release of all Saudi political prisoners, including blogger Raif Badawi and women's rights activists.The Graham-Feinstein-Rubio-Markey-Young-Coons Resolution: condemns in the strongest possible terms the murder of Jamal Khashoggi; finds that as Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman was in control of the security forces at the time of Jamal Khashoggi's murder; based on evidence and analysis made available to this institution, the Senate has a high level of confidence that Mohammed bin Salman was complicit in the murder of Jamal Khashoggi; urges the United States Government and the international community to hold all parties, including Mohammed bin Salman, involved in the murder of Jamal Khashoggi accountable; calls on the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to negotiate directly with representatives of the Houthi movement in order to end the war in Yemen, agree on a political resolution, reverse the humanitarian crisis, and refocus efforts on defeating al Qaeda and ISIS in Yemen; calls o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=9763A89F-87F3-4085-ADFD-403709D57D62 | Rubio Introduces Bill to Extend National Flood Insurance Program for 10 Months | 2018-12-05 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), along with Senators John Kennedy (R-LA), Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Robert Menendez (D-NJ) introduced legislation to reauthorize the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) through September 30, 2019.The legislation would ensure retroactive coverage in the event of a programmatic lapse. The NFIP is currently set to expire on December 7, 2018. While I am frustrated with the continued need for extensions, it has become clear that we need additional time to come to a consensus on bipartisan and bicameral reforms to the NFIP, Rubio said. Floridians who rely on this program cannot afford this uncertainty when we enter the 2019 hurricane season. I urge my colleagues to pass this important extension as soon as possible. More than five million Americans depend on the National Flood Insurance Program, Kennedy said. I want to thank Sen. Rubio for his work on this long-term extension that is vital to families and the economy. For those of us who live along the Gulf Coast, the NFIP means we don't have to worry every time it rains. We must prevent the National Flood Insurance Program from lapsing and set the stage for long-term reforms, said Dr. Cassidy. We need a more accountable, affordable and sustainable system that is good for Louisiana and good for taxpayers. The National Flood Insurance Program needs to be comprehensively reformed to make the program more fair, affordable, efficient and solvent, which is what my SAFE NFIP would do, said Menendez. But with the NFIP extension expiring it's critical that we prevent a lapse that would disrupt the real estate market and leave thousands of families uninsured and vulnerable. This extension will give Congress time to pass a long-term reauthorization with real, meaningful reforms in line with my SAFE NFIP Act, which is the most bipartisan flood insurance bill in the Senate. Timeline of Rubio's Efforts on the National Flood Insurance Program November 28, 2018 Rubio Comments on NFIP Reauthorization November 15, 2018 … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://posey.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=394591 | Rep. Poseys Statement on the Passing of President George H.W. Bush | 2018-12-04 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Bill Posey | P000599 | posey.house.gov | legacy | Rep. Posey's Statement on the Passing of President George H.W. Bush Washington, December 4, 2018- Congressman Bill Posey (R-Rockledge) issued the following statement regarding the passing of President George H.W. Bush: President Bush dedicated his life to serving our nation and earned the respect of us all. As a young man he fought with courage during World War II as a U.S. Navy pilot, served his local community as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Texas, was appointed as an ambassador and Director of the CIA before being elected Vice President and then President of the United States. He was a devoted father and family man and his example of servant-heart leadership will be missed. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mast.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D53C9CAA-DF1F-48A0-9246-44E076B670FA | Mast’s Bill To Conserve Land, Protect Wildlife Signed Into Law | 2018-12-04 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Brian Mast | M001199 | mast.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Congressman Brian Mast's (FL-18) Jupiter Island Land Transfer Act was signed into law by the President today. The bill passed the House of Representatives as part of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 on November 27, 2018. The bill transfers approximately four acres of land on Jupiter Island currently owned by the United States Coast Guard to the Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge. Jupiter Island is home to multiple species of turtles on the Endangered Species List, among other animals and important natural habitats. Ensuring that we are good stewards of our environment begins with strong conservation efforts, and on the Treasure Coast, protecting our environment is also critical to our businesses and livelihoods, Rep. Mast said. This is land that the Coast Guard no longer needs and the Department of the Interior is willing to include in the wildlife refuge, making this bill a win-win for all involved. Read the full text of the legislation here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=921F11FC-74EF-43CB-A8A3-94D510C8B001 | Rubio: U.S. should seize the new opportunity to strengthen ties with Chile | 2018-12-04 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Rubio: U.S. should seize the new opportunity to strengthen ties with Chile By U.S. Senator Marco Rubio December 4, 2018 Miami Herald Last spring, the people of Chile democratically elected President Sebastin Piera to lead one of the fastest growing economies in Latin America. The Piera government presents an opportunity for the United States to strengthen relations with our democratic ally and solve problems in the region. The Western Hemisphere faces many challenges, including growing coca production, illegal trafficking, and expanding criminal organizations. Solving these and other problems will require the United States to cooperate more closely with Chile and other regional partners on security and economic matters. To begin with, the U.S.-Chile partnership is already strong. Our two countries signed a free trade agreement in 2004 and, according to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, our trade in goods and services totals more than $27 billion, supporting more than 90,000 jobs in the United States and thousands more in Chile. Moreover, the United States invests roughly $26 billion annually in Chile, and our Latin American ally correspondingly invests more than $2 billion per year in the U.S. economy. My hope is that a robust relationship with the Piera Administration will further strengthen our economic ties and lead to greater prosperity for both of our countries. Toward that end, the United States should also work with Chile to develop better intellectual property protection laws and less onerous tax and regulatory regimes. Cybersecurity is another emerging area where the United States and Chile have powerful incentives to work together. Last May, hackers launched a massive cyberattack to steal $10 million dollars from the Banco de Chile, the country's second largest bank. Two weeks reportedly passed before the bank could resume normal operations. The United States has formidable cybersecurity capabilities in government and private sectors that could benefit Chile. That's why… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/bilirakis-blog/bilirakis-joins-colleagues-advocate-pro-life-principles | Bilirakis Joins Colleagues to Advocate for Pro-life Principles | 2018-12-03 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Gus Bilirakis | B001257 | bilirakis.house.gov | legacy | 38500 U.S. Hwy 19 North Rm BB-038 of St. Petersburg College Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 This office cannot accept mail. All mail should be sent to 7132 Little Road, New Port Richey, FL 34654 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=151BC4C1-7E6A-4158-B520-9B415792AA0E | Statement on Passing of President George HW Bush | 2018-12-01 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Daniel Webster | W000806 | webster.house.gov | webster | https://webster.house.gov/press-releases | scraper | Statement by Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, on the passing of President George HW Bush. “I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of President George H W Bush. An American hero, he loved his family and country and dedicated his entire life to serving both. His legacy of integrity, patriotism, kindness, and servant leadership is an example for us all. My heart goes out to my friend Jeb and the entire Bush family. Thank you for sharing your dad with us. Sandy and I are praying for you all.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z |
| https://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=EC560F6E-EB23-4074-9F8F-79E388A61F72 | Rubio Mourns The Passing Of President George H. W. Bush | 2018-12-01 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Miami, FL U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) issued the following statement today regarding the passing of President George Herbert Walker Bush: When any public figure passes away, it causes us to pause and reflect on the life they lived. I came of age during the presidency of George H. W. Bush. He was our President when I graduated from high school in 1989. He was the first presidential candidate I ever voted for in 1992. I even dressed as him for Halloween in 1991! It is difficult to fully appreciate a great man in the middle of their time of service, but both then and in hindsight, President Bush was an example of true public service. As a young student and later as an elected official starting out in public life, President Bush's intellect, leadership, and moral courage influenced me greatly. "He was an American hero of a kind we may never see again.His record of service to our nation has no contemporary parallel. He volunteered for service in World War II, becoming the youngest aviator in the Navy at the time of his enlistment. Then, he went on to serve our nation as a Congressman from Texas, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, chairman of the Republican National Committee, chief diplomat in China, Director of the CIA, Vice President of the United States, and President of the United States. "But beyond his extraordinary record of service, George H. W. Bush deserves to be remembered for the profound personal example he set for all Americans. He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He instilled in his family a drive for serving others and giving back to the American people. He continued to show his quality in the latter years of his life, when he devoted himself to charity, befriended his once adversary in President Cli… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://dunn.house.gov/2018/11/dunn-joins-southeast-members-in-call-for-agricultural-disaster-funding | Dunn Joins Southeast Members in Call For Agricultural Disaster Funding | 2018-11-30 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Republican | House | FL | Neal Dunn | D000628 | dunn.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02) joined with members representing areas across the southeast in advocating for adequate agricultural disaster funding in the wake of Hurricanes Michael and Florence. A bipartisan coalition of 28 members from Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, and Georgia wrote to Speaker Paul Ryan and Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi urging House action on agricultural assistance by the end of the year. I've visited countless agriculture producers across the Second District and listened as they described the absolute devastation their operations suffered, and it's clear that they need help. We will continue to make our case until their needs are met, said Dr. Dunn. In a letter to House leadership the members wrote, losses from these storms were particularly painful as the storms arrived late in the growing season after extensive investment into this year's crop. As this Congress comes to an end, farmers are attempting to secure the credit they need to put crops in the ground for next year. Further, with an increase in farm bankruptcies by 39% over the past two years, we are concerned that absent timely assistance for agriculture, many vulnerable farm families may not survive the economic circumstances that they face. Click here for the full text of the letter. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=110 | Dunn Joins Southeast Members in Call For Agricultural Disaster Funding | 2018-11-30 | 2018 | 2018-11 | Republican | House | FL | Neal P. Dunn | D000628 | dunn.house.gov | dunn | https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 | scraper | Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02) joined with members representing areas across the southeast in advocating for adequate agricultural disaster funding in the wake of Hurricanes Michael and Florence. A bipartisan coalition of 28 members from Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, and Georgia wrote to Speaker Paul Ryan and Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi urging House action on agricultural assistance by the end of the year. “I’ve visited countless agriculture producers across the Second District and listened as they described the absolute devastation their operations suffered, and it’s clear that they need help. We will continue to make our case until their needs are met,” said Dr. Dunn. In a letter to House leadership the members wrote, “losses from these storms were particularly painful as the storms arrived late in the growing season after extensive investment into this year’s crop. As this Congress comes to an end, farmers are attempting to secure the credit they need to put crops in the ground for next year. Further, with an increase in farm bankruptcies by 39% over the past two years, we are concerned that absent timely assistance for agriculture, many vulnerable farm families may not survive the economic circumstances that they face.” Click here for the full text of the letter. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-27T23:10:16Z |
Advanced export
JSON shape: default, array, newline-delimited, object
CREATE TABLE [releases] (
[url] TEXT PRIMARY KEY,
[title] TEXT,
[date] TEXT,
[year] TEXT,
[month] TEXT,
[party] TEXT,
[chamber] TEXT,
[state] TEXT,
[member_name] TEXT,
[bioguide_id] TEXT,
[domain] TEXT,
[scraper] TEXT,
[source] TEXT,
[date_source] TEXT,
[text] TEXT,
[has_text] INTEGER,
[collected_at] TEXT,
[updated_at] TEXT
);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_date]
ON [releases] ([date]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_year]
ON [releases] ([year]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_party]
ON [releases] ([party]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_chamber]
ON [releases] ([chamber]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_state]
ON [releases] ([state]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_bioguide_id]
ON [releases] ([bioguide_id]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_has_text]
ON [releases] ([has_text]);