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
9,500 rows where party = "Republican" and state = "TN" 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.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/09/28/icymi-hagerty-joinssunday-morning-futures-on-fox-news-channel-to-discuss-trump-gop-accomplishments/ | ICYMI—Hagerty JoinsSunday Morning Futures on Fox News Channel to Discuss Trump, GOP Accomplishments | 2026-09-28 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | WASHINGTON—On Sunday, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking committees, joined Sunday Morning Futures on Fox News Channel to discuss the radical policies of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), President Donald Trump’s agenda, and the accomplishments of the GOP. *Click the photo above or here to watch* Partial Transcript Hagerty on the DSA’s radical agenda: I think we need to listen to what the Democrats are saying. You think about [Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY-14)], [Abdul El-Sayed], [Sen. Bernie Sanders (D-VT)], even what Mamdani is doing with socialist, government-run grocery stores. We need to make it very clear that their answer [is] basically more government control. You think about the welfare state that they want to see… collapse the borders, more fentanyl into the country, more terrorism, more crime, defund the Pentagon. Every direction they want to turn weakens America. We need to be emphasizing exactly what [President Donald Trump] has done these past two years and where we’re headed… We are seeing economic strength coming through. We are seeing policies that are making a real difference because we have actually cut taxes. We are deregulating. The Biden administration would’ve added $4 trillion more worth of compliance costs. We are taking them away. My Freedom to Build Act could take up to $100,000 off the cost of a new home, again, cutting regulatory and permitting costs. So, we need to convey those messages; we need to convey a positive economic message. And the fact is that the world stands stronger with a strong America. The Republicans have the answers for this. We are putting forward policies to do it. The Democrats’ view is “let’s shut down the government.” That’s all they’ve delivered the past two years— the two longest government shutdowns in history. We even had a permitting reform package that we were trying to pass last week. They walked away from it. They do not want to see the economy do well; the… | 1 | 2026-09-29T11:07:12Z | 2026-09-29T11:08:49Z |
| https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-david-kustoff-co-leads-bipartisan-motion-picture-television-and | Congressman David Kustoff Co-Leads Bipartisan Motion Picture, Television, and Entertainment Revitalization Act | 2026-09-25 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | David Kustoff | K000392 | kustoff.house.gov | kustoff | https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | September 25, 2026 WASHINGTON – Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN-08) helped lead the introduction of H.R.10582, the bipartisan Motion Picture, Television, and Entertainment Revitalization Act. The bill would establish a federal tax credit for qualified film and television productions, with additional incentives for productions in qualifying rural communities and disaster areas. “Film and television production supports workers and small businesses across the country, including in Tennessee,” said Congressman David Kustoff. “When productions are made in the United States, that work reaches far beyond the set. It supports the crews, local contractors, restaurants, hotels, and small businesses that bring a project to life. This bipartisan bill will help Americans compete for those jobs and keep more of that economic activity here at home.” The Motion Picture, Television, and Entertainment Revitalization Act would: Establish a 20 percent federal tax credit for qualified compensation paid or incurred for qualifying services performed in the United States in connection with film and television productions. The credit rate could increase by five percentage points under specified circumstances, subject to a 30 percent cap. For a film, television pilot, or television season to qualify for the credit they must generally have total costs exceeding $1 million and at least 75 percent of its principal-photography days in the United States. Encourage more production activity throughout the United States: Producers that increase their domestic production activity relative to their prior foreign production activity could receive an additional five-percentage-point credit. Producers that meet substantial production and payroll thresholds in at least 10 states could receive an additional five-percentage-point credit. Increase the credit by five percentage points for productions that conduct at least 30 percent of their principal photography days in a rural qualified opportunity zone or eligible disaster area. Increase the c… | 1 | 2026-09-27T10:23:37Z | 2026-09-27T10:25:08Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/9/senate-passes-blackburn-kaine-resolution-designating-october-as-national-country-music-month | Senate Passes Blackburn, Kaine Resolution Designating October as “National Country Music Month” | 2026-09-25 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) released the following statements after their resolution designating October as “National Country Music Month” passed the Senate. This resolution honors the contributions of country music to the story and history of the U.S. and encourages the American people to observe “National Country Music Month” with appropriate ceremonies and activities. “Tennessee is the heart of country music, from its birthplace in Bristol to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville,” said Senator Blackburn. “This National Country Music Month, we honor the legendary Dolly Parton, whose iconic voice, songwriting, and showmanship inspired generations of performers and fans. Country music has always captured the spirit of our nation—our faith, our families, and our freedoms—and it is my honor to lead this resolution recognizing this incredible legacy.” “Music has always been a big part of my life, from listening to and playing songs with my family to jamming with friends,” said Senator Kaine. “Bristol is the birthplace of country music, so I’m glad to join Senator Blackburn in introducing this resolution to recognize October as National Country Music Month and celebrate this incredible genre and its contributions to our nation’s history and culture.” | 1 | 2026-09-29T11:07:12Z | 2026-09-29T11:08:49Z |
| https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-david-kustoffs-social-security-identity-theft-bill-advances-senate | Congressman David Kustoff’s Social Security Identity Theft Bill Advances in Senate, Now Heads to President Trump's Desk | 2026-09-24 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | David Kustoff | K000392 | kustoff.house.gov | kustoff | https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN-08) announced the United States Senate unanimously passed H.R. 5345, the Improving Social Security’s Service to Victims of Identity Theft Act, on September 17, 2026. The bill would provide victims of identity theft involving their Social Security numbers with a single point of contact at the Social Security Administration throughout the resolution of their case. It now heads to President Donald Trump’s desk for his signature. “Victims of identity theft deserve clear, consistent support rather than getting lost in a maze of federal bureaucracy,” said Congressman David Kustoff. “The Senate’s passage of my bill brings us one step closer to cutting red tape and ensuring victims receive timely support from the Social Security Administration. I appreciate the bipartisan support this legislation received in both chambers and look forward to President Trump signing it into law.” According to the Identity Theft Resource Center’s 2025 Annual Data Breach Report, the United States experienced a record 3,322 data compromises in 2025. Of those, 2,236 involved Social Security numbers. Federal Trade Commission identity-theft reports rose to 1.36 million in 2025, a 19.6 percent increase from 2024. Under H.R. 5345, trained employees serving as the point of contact would coordinate with other SSA offices, maintain continuity of case records, and remain accountable until each case is resolved. The legislation would also apply when a Social Security card is lost in the mail. Background: Congressman Kustoff introduced H.R. 5345 on Sept. 15, 2025. It passed the House Committee on Ways and Means 39–1 and passed out of the House of Representatives by unanimous consent on Dec. 1, 2025. The bill builds on Kustoff’s legislative record of combating fraud and streamlining federal bureaucracy: - Introduced the bipartisan Recovery of Stolen Checks Act (H.R. 1155) and DO NOT Call Act (H.R. 6449) to support fraud victims. - Introduced the Child Care Tax Benefit Outreach and Assistance Act (H.R.… | 1 | 2026-09-25T10:04:52Z | 2026-09-25T10:05:46Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/9/senate-unanimously-passes-blackburn-s-bipartisan-bill-to-prevent-romance-scams | Senate Unanimously Passes Blackburn’s Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Romance Scams | 2026-09-24 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Senate unanimously passed Senator Marsha Blackburn’s (R-Tenn.) Romance Scam Prevention Act, which would require dating apps and services to issue fraud ban notifications to users who have interacted with a person removed from the app, sending it to President Trump’s desk. In recent years, digital romance scams have become more common as scammers target recently widowed or divorced senior citizens. In 2023, Tennesseans over the age of 60 lost $43 million due to scams targeting the elderly, marking an 18% increase from the losses reported in 2022. Across the country, the Federal Trade Commission reported that romance scams resulted in victims losing $1.3 billion in 2022 alone. Senator John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) co-sponsored this legislation. Representative David Valadao (R-Calif.) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. BACKGROUND As Americans continue to go online to find meaningful relationships, scammers are following suit. These scams accelerated during the COVID pandemic when more senior citizens turned to dating sites for companionship while they were isolated from their loved ones. When an online dating service provider becomes aware of a user committing fraudulent activity, such as illegally obtaining money, the online dating service provider immediately deactivates the fraudulent user's account. However, individuals who meet online often take their conversations to other communication platforms, so even when a fraudulent account is removed, an individual might not know they are still communicating with someone who has been removed from the dating platform. The Romance Scam Prevention Act would fill this communication gap by requiring dating app platforms to send a fraud ban notification to anyone who has communicated with someone with a fraudulent account. Click here for bill text. Click here to read more about the red flag indicators of romance scams and how to avoid becoming a victim of a romance scam. RELATED | 1 | 2026-09-29T11:07:12Z | 2026-09-29T11:08:49Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-chuck-fleischmann-applauds-25-million-for-tennessee-wesleyan-university-s-health-science-stem-education | Congressman Chuck Fleischmann Applauds $2.5 Million for Tennessee Wesleyan University’s Health Science, STEM Education | 2026-09-23 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03) is proud to announce that he has secured $2,500,000 in federal funding for Tennessee Wesleyan University to enhance its Health Science and STEM education programs. The funding will support major renovations, and equipment upgrades at the university’s Fisher Hall of Science in Athens, Tennessee. “This $2.5 million investment is about building a brighter future for East Tennessee,” said Congressman Fleischmann. “Modernizing Fisher Hall of Science empowers our students, including many from first-generation and underserved backgrounds, to excel and launch successful careers right here at home. These graduates are essential to meeting the workforce needs in advanced manufacturing, nuclear technologies, and artificial intelligence, vital to our region’s economic growth. This is a win for our students and for our region’s future.” The project will modernize the 30,000-square-foot Fisher Hall of Science, which has not been significantly updated since its completion in 1968. Planned improvements include new flooring, laboratory countertops, HVAC system upgrades, network cabling, and advanced scientific equipment. The initiative will also provide faculty training and implement systems to track student progress from enrollment through job placement. With these enhancements, Tennessee Wesleyan University aims to increase student enrollment and research participation in biology, chemistry, and environmental science, while also improving student outcomes such as graduation rates and job placements. The upgrades will particularly benefit first-generation and low-income students who rely on the university’s science programs, as well as regional employers seeking a pipeline of highly skilled graduates. | 1 | 2026-09-24T09:44:48Z | 2026-09-24T09:45:52Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/09/23/hagerty-calls-for-heightened-safety-standards-on-public-transit/ | Hagerty Calls for Heightened Safety Standards on Public Transit | 2026-09-23 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | Crime on public transit wastes taxpayer dollars and puts passengers in danger WASHINGTON—Today, Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) introduced the Safe Transit Act, a bill aimed at penalizing the oversight of crime and misconduct on public transit. Lax public transit safety measures waste hundreds of millions in taxpayer dollars each year and pose a serious threat to transit users. Yet some of the nation’s most robust and frequently used transit systems — especially those in blue states — do not have adequate security protocols in place to keep their passengers safe. Every city that receives federal funding for transit should have to prove that it is protecting its passengers and combatting crime. The Safe Transit Act incentivizes public transit systems to adopt more robust crime prevention measures and creates a safety performance benchmark, ensuring each system is held to the same standard. Most importantly, the bill withholds federal funds from transit systems that fail to meet the proposed benchmarks and safety protocols. “Too many Democrat-led cities and states take taxpayer dollars while letting crime run rampant on public transit. This must end,” said Hagerty. “My legislation would direct federal funding to communities that actually protect passengers and promote public safety. It’s time to put Americans’ safety first.” “Under President Trump’s leadership, we’ve used every tool in our toolbox to make transit systems safer, cleaner, and more family-friendly. Our work has slashed fare evasion, increased law enforcement patrols, and reduced crime — including right here in our nation’s capital. But for the stubborn states, cities, and systems that refuse to meet basic safety standards, we need more flexibility to hold them accountable,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. “I want to thank Senator Hagerty for leading this critical legislation and ensuring hardworking-taxpayer dollars deliver transit systems that Americans can be proud of.” The Safe Transit Act would: Allow the Department to withhold 1… | 1 | 2026-09-24T09:44:48Z | 2026-09-24T09:45:52Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-hosts-sixth-annual-military-academy-day | Harshbarger Hosts Sixth Annual Military Academy Day | 2026-09-21 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Kingsport, TN — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) welcomed more than 100 students, parents, and educators to the Kingsport Center for Higher Education on Saturday for her sixth annual Military Academy Day. The event offered prospective cadets across Tennessee's First District a chance to hear directly from our nation's premier service academies and explore a path to a military education. “This annual event is about the next generation of Americans who are willing to raise their hand and serve,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “Every student who walked through that door is thinking seriously about a life spent serving this country, and it's my job to make sure they don't have to figure out how to get there on their own. East Tennessee produces exactly the kind of grit and character our service academies are looking for, and my office will keep doing everything we can to help these young men and women get there.” The program opened with remarks from Harshbarger, followed by a presentation on the application process from Col. Scott Gerblick. Representatives from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and East Tennessee State University's Army ROTC program then held academy-specific sessions, giving students the chance to put their questions directly to cadets, officers, and admissions staff. Presenters included West Point cadet Skyler Floodquist, a junior from Sevier County; Naval Academy Blue and Gold Officer Kristen Daniel; Air Force Academy admissions advisor 2nd Lt. Isabelle Flasch; Coast Guard Academy admissions partner Richard Hawkins; and East Tennessee State University JROTC representatives Scott Curtis and Sgt. 1st Class Josh Crabtree. Throughout the morning, presenters encouraged students to research each academy carefully, tailor every application individually, and build a backup plan through options such as JROTC or a year of college before seeking an appointment. Students seeking a congressional nominatio… | 1 | 2026-09-22T09:42:49Z | 2026-09-22T09:44:35Z |
| https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-david-kustoff-introduces-legislation-strengthen-employer-supported | Congressman David Kustoff Introduces Legislation to Strengthen Employer-Supported Child Care for Working Families | 2026-09-21 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | David Kustoff | K000392 | kustoff.house.gov | kustoff | https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN-08) introduced H.R. 10512, the Child Care Tax Benefit Outreach and Assistance Act, the House companion to bipartisan legislation introduced by Senators Dan Sullivan (R-AK) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH). The bill would help employers navigate and access federal tax benefits that support child care for working families. Congressman Kustoff has led congressional efforts to strengthen the Section 45F employer-provided child care tax credit, including provisions enacted through the One Big Beautiful Bill. “Reliable child care supports working families and helps West Tennessee businesses recruit and retain employees,” said Congressman David Kustoff. “I worked to deliver the first major expansion of the employer-provided child care tax credit in more than two decades through the One Big Beautiful Bill. This bipartisan, budget-neutral legislation builds upon that work by giving businesses a dedicated resource to take advantage of these benefits and connect their employees with available options.” A 2022 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report found that relatively few businesses claimed the Section 45F employer-provided child care tax credit. The GAO cited limited awareness of the credit and the complexity of establishing and administering child care benefits as barriers to wider use. The Child Care Tax Benefit Outreach and Assistance Act would establish a Business Child Care Liaison within the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to help address these barriers. The liaison would educate businesses about the Section 45F credit and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, which allow employees to set aside pretax income for eligible care expenses. The liaison would also help employers utilize these benefits and strengthen coordination among the IRS, businesses, and the child care sector. Background: In May 2025, Congressman Kustoff introduced H.R. 3155, the Child Care for American Families Act, to strengthen the Section 45F employer-provided child care tax credit and make it … | 1 | 2026-09-22T09:42:49Z | 2026-09-22T09:44:35Z |
| https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/immediate-release-doge-hearing-achieves-results | FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: DOGE Hearing Achieves Results | 2026-09-18 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | Tim Burchett | B001309 | burchett.house.gov | burchett | https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. (09/18/2026): As a result of the DOGE hearing, “Fixing Fraud and Failure in Federally Funded Homelessness Services,” Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has resigned from the Los Angeles Homeless Service Authority (LAHSA) Commission, and the Department of Justice has charged multiple individuals associated with organizations that contracted with LAHSA. This hearing highlighted serious concerns about fraud, mismanagement, and accountability within Los Angeles’ homelessness system. More than $1 billion in federal taxpayer dollars have been distributed to LAHSA, yet it is largely unaccounted for. What was found was free drug paraphernalia being widely distributed. LAHSA has now ceased serving as the distributor of homelessness funding in Los Angeles, but the investigation is not over. Mayor Bass’s cowardly resignation will not stop the committee from issuing subpoenas and demanding answers. The American people deserve to know how their tax dollars were spent, who benefited, and who will be held accountable. “The DOGE Subcommittee is tasked with rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse, and that is exactly what we have done,” said Rep. Tim Burchett. “This is just one of many examples of how Republicans and the Trump Administration are committing to bringing transparency to government.” To view the entire DOGE hearing, click HERE : ### For questions and media inquiries, please contact Will Garrett, Communications Director for Congressman Burchett | 1 | 2026-09-19T09:11:33Z | 2026-09-19T09:12:45Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/two-harshbarger-bills-advance-through-energy-and-commerce-committee-0 | Two Harshbarger Bills Advance Through Energy and Commerce Committee | 2026-09-18 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) released the following statements after the House Energy and Commerce Committee advanced two of her bills at this week’s full committee markup. Members passed the Automotive National and Economic Security Act of 2026 and the Mitigating Automated Internet Networks for (MAIN) Event Ticketing Act, sending both bills to the full House for consideration. Automotive National and Economic Security Act of 2026: "China has a playbook: control manufacturing and hold the world hostage. This week's vote brings us one step closer to giving Washington the facts we need to counter their strategy," said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. "We’ve watched Beijing run this same play on critical minerals and shipbuilding, and now they're setting their sights on the U.S. automotive industry. As vehicles become more connected and software-driven, that's not just an economic threat, it's a national security threat and a risk to the data of every American behind the wheel. I want to thank Chairman Guthrie and my colleague Congresswoman Dingell for their partnership on this bipartisan bill, and I'll keep pushing to get it signed into law." CLICK HERE to learn more about the Automotive National and Economic Security Act of 2026. MAIN Event Ticketing Act: "This vote brings us one step closer to shutting down the ticket bots that have turned buying a ticket to your favorite show into an uphill battle," said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. "Americans deserve a fair shot at the tickets they've saved up for, not a marketplace rigged by scalper bots and shady resellers. This bill strengthens the Better Online Ticket Sales Act with real cybersecurity safeguards and enforcement tools so the FTC can hold bad actors accountable. I'm grateful for my colleague Congressman Carter's partnership on this bill, and I look forward to seeing it head to the House Floor." CLICK HERE to learn more about the MAIN Event Ticketing Act. ### | 1 | 2026-09-19T09:11:33Z | 2026-09-19T09:12:45Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/09/18/hagerty-colleagues-lead-passage-of-resolution-honoring-the-life-and-legacy-of-dolly-parton/ | Hagerty, Colleagues Lead Passage of Resolution Honoring the Life and Legacy of Dolly Parton | 2026-09-18 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | Parton was a lifelong Tennessean and an internationally beloved entertainer and philanthropist WASHINGTON—United States Senators Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) led passage of a resolution honoring the life and legacy of country music star Dolly Parton. Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-TN-01) introduced a companion resolution in the United States House of Representatives. Born in Locust Ridge, Tenn., Parton began her nearly 70-year musical career at age 10 and made her Grand Ole Opry debut at age 13. Over the next six decades, she wrote nearly 3,000 songs and sold more than 100 million records worldwide, including timeless classics such as “Jolene,” “I Will Always Love You,” and “9 to 5.” Parton cemented her status as one of the most successful female artists of all time. She received 32 prestigious entertainment awards and was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, Songwriters Hall of Fame, Country Music Hall of Fame, and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Beyond music, Parton dedicated much of her life to bettering her community, particularly in East Tennessee. In 1988, she founded the Dollywood Foundation, an organization committed to providing East Tennessee students with resources to further their education. Parton went on to establish the Imagination Library, a charitable program that has provided over 332 million free books to children across the globe. She also raised more than $12 million for those affected by deadly wildfires in the Great Smoky Mountains in 2016. In addition to her philanthropic work, Parton was a successful businesswoman. In 1986, she opened Dollywood, a popular theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., which has since become a major East Tennessee economic driver and international tourist destination. For her final business endeavor, Parton took inspiration from her years traveling on tour buses to establish Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop in Cornersville, Tenn., in June 2026. Parton passed away on Aug. 25 at the Vanderbilt-Ing… | 1 | 2026-09-19T09:11:33Z | 2026-09-19T09:12:45Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/9/blackburn-colleagues-lead-passage-of-resolution-honoring-the-life-and-legacy-of-dolly-parton | Blackburn, Colleagues Lead Passage of Resolution Honoring the Life and Legacy of Dolly Parton | 2026-09-18 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) led passage of a resolution to honor the life and legacy of country music legend Dolly Parton, whose extraordinary contributions to music, philanthropy, literacy, education, health, conservation, and culture enriched the lives of countless Americans. Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.) introduced a companion resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives. “Dolly Parton was a Tennessee treasure who lived out the Volunteer Spirit, loved our nation, and opened doors of opportunity for countless people,” said Senator Blackburn. “While there are no words to fully express the sorrow all Tennesseans feel in her loss, I hope this resolution plays at least a small part in ensuring that her legacy is never forgotten, and I am honored to lead it in the Senate.” “Dolly is truly a Tennessee legend,” said Senator Hagerty. “From her humble beginnings in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains to worldwide fame, Dolly exemplified the American Dream. Whether she was performing on stages across the globe, creating opportunities for families to make memories in Dollywood, or fostering a love of reading through her Imagination Library, Dolly lived a life dedicated to encouraging others to dream just as boldly as she did. She never forgot where she came from and left an indelible cultural and economic impact on our state. She will be very dearly missed.” “Dolly Parton was a legend, an icon, and an inspiration. Las Vegans and visitors enjoyed her shows for close to half a century, and books from her Imagination Library line the bookshelves of countless Nevada children,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Today, we stand together to honor her contributions to American music, her lifetime of generosity and service, and her embrace of all people.” “I'm grateful to Senator Blackburn for leading this resolution in the Senate so that Dolly's story, a woman whose humble beginnings in a two-room cabin in Sevier Cou… | 1 | 2026-09-21T10:25:24Z | 2026-09-21T10:26:54Z |
| https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-tim-burchett-drops-two-bills-address-affordability | Rep. Tim Burchett Drops Two Bills to Address Affordability | 2026-09-17 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | Tim Burchett | B001309 | burchett.house.gov | burchett | https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.-- Tennessee Congressman Tim Burchett filed two bills to address the rising price of diesel fuel in the United States, which would make the lives of ALL Americans more affordable. Diesel fuel powers the trucks, farm equipment, and machinery that keep our economy moving, meaning higher fuel costs are ultimately passed on to consumers through higher prices for groceries, goods, and services. By addressing diesel prices, these bills will provide relief to American families and businesses. “Diesel export controls drive down prices while also helping Americans keep more money in their pockets,” said Rep. Burchett. “Refiners typically make a profit of around $15 per barrel, or roughly 35 cents per gallon. Instead, refiners are choosing to sell their diesel for higher prices in Europe. Shipping American diesel overseas reduces domestic supply drives up prices at home. Today, refiners are profiting $117 per barrel, or $2.78 per gallon. That is a nearly 800% increase. American companies should prioritize American consumers and keep American diesel in America.” | 1 | 2026-09-18T09:27:43Z | 2026-09-18T09:29:09Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/9/president-trump-signs-blackburn-s-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-prison-staff-from-sexual-abuse-by-inmates | President Trump Signs Blackburn’s Bipartisan Bill to Protect Prison Staff from Sexual Abuse by Inmates | 2026-09-17 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after President Donald Trump signed her bipartisan legislation, the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act, into law. This legislation will help address the increasingly pervasive sexual assault and harassment of Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) employees by inmates. “No law enforcement officer should have to fear for their safety when they show up to work,” said Senator Blackburn. “I am pleased the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act—which will help us end the appalling sexual abuse of prison staff by inmates—has been signed into law by President Trump.” This legislation is also co-sponsored by Senator Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.). Representative Laurel Lee (R-Fla.) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. BACKGROUND According to a February 2023 report by the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (DOJ OIG), a staggering 40% of 7,000 surveyed BOP staff stated they had been sexually harassed or sexually assaulted by an inmate. At United States Penitentiary Thomson in Illinois, there were over 300 incidents of inmate-on-staff sexual harassment in a single year. USP Thomson houses only 875 inmates. The DOJ OIG report, combined with BOP staff testimonials on this troubling problem, strongly suggests that BOP’s reporting and corrective procedures for inmate-on-staff sexual assault and harassment are inadequate, creating an institutional culture that lacks accountability and endangers BOP employees. THE PRISON STAFF SAFETY ENHANCEMENT ACT The Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act will require: The BOP to fully implement the recommendations in the Inspector General’s 2023 report regarding mitigating inmate-on-staff sexual harassment and assault and to fully ascertain the scope of the problem; The DOJ OIG to conduct an analysis of punishments for sexual harassment and sexual assault in BOP facilities; and The U.S. Attorney General to promulgate a rule adopting national standards for prevent… | 1 | 2026-09-21T10:25:24Z | 2026-09-21T10:26:54Z |
| https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-bill-empowers-domestic-violence-victims-to-seek-help | Rep. Van Epps’ Bill Empowers Domestic Violence Victims to Seek Help | 2026-09-16 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | Matt Van Epps | V000139 | vanepps.house.gov | vanepps | https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington D.C.—Today, Rep. Matt Van Epps (TN-07) introduced the Screening Harm, Identifying Escalating Lethality Danger (SHIELD) For Victims Act. This legislation would implement an evidence-based intervention program used by first responders to identify victims of intimate partner violence called a Lethality Assessment. Under the Lethality Assessment protocol, victims identified as being at high risk are immediately connected with a domestic violence crisis hotline. This on-the-spot intervention gives victims an opportunity to speak with an advocate, develop a safety plan, and access resources while law enforcement officers are still present. Rep. Van Epps said, “Nearly one in four women have experienced physical violence by an intimate partner. On average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. Even more disturbing is how often domestic violence turns deadly. In 2021, intimate partners were responsible for 34% of all murders and nonnegligent manslaughters of women in the United States. It is clear that more must be done to combat domestic violence. That is why I introduced the SHIELD For Victims Act. This legislation trains federal law enforcement officers to conduct a Lethality Assessment when encountering a domestic violence situation. Lethality assessments and similar interventions have proven to reduce the homicides of women by an intimate partner by 40 percent,” he continued. The Congressman concluded, “I am confident that connecting domestic violence victims with resources while in the presence of law enforcement will empower them to protect themselves and their children from an abuser. Taking away an abuser’s ability to intimidate or manipulate is crucial. Domestic violence resource centers can help victims find safe housing and transportation, develop safety plans, and navigate the court system. This bill won’t just help shield victims from domestic violence; it could help them build a new life.” Sharon K. Roberson, Esq., President and CEO, YW… | 1 | 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z | 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/9/blackburn-bill-to-support-music-tourism-heads-to-president-trump-s-desk | Blackburn Bill to Support Music Tourism Heads to President Trump’s Desk | 2026-09-16 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) released the following statements after the U.S. House of Representatives passed their bipartisan legislation, American Music Tourism Act, to support music tourism in Tennessee and across the country: “The Volunteer State is home to so many iconic landmarks for tourists to experience – from Graceland in Memphis to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville to Dollywood in Pigeon Forge,” said Senator Blackburn. “Music tourism has such a positive impact on Tennessee’s economy, and we need to ensure that fans from all over the world continue to celebrate our state’s rich history of music for generations to come. The American Music Tourism Act will promote and support the fast-growing tourism industry, and I am pleased it is heading to President Trump’s desk.” “From Red Rocks to The Mish, Colorado is fortunate to have so many outstanding music venues that bring culture, tourism, and economic opportunity to our communities,” said Senator Hickenlooper. “The American Music Tourism Act will help bring even more visitors to venues in Colorado and across the country. We’re glad to see it pass the House and urge the President to sign it into law.” The American Music Tourism Act is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), and Ted Budd (R-N.C.). BACKGROUND Music tourism – both the act of visiting sites important to the history of American music culture and the act of traveling for concerts and music festivals – is a vital industry for American culture and an economic driver for our communities. Music tourism has emerged as a top travel trend, with the market forecasted to reach $11.3 billion in revenue by 2032. The United States, which boasts one of world’s largest music industries that generates over $43 billion in revenue each year, is one of the main beneficiaries of this international interest in music tourism. The Commerce Department’s Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism i… | 1 | 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z | 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-applauds-final-passage-american-music-tourism-act | Harshbarger Applauds Final Passage of American Music Tourism Act | 2026-09-15 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. — Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed S. 195, the American Music Tourism Act of 2025, sending the bipartisan bill to President Trump's desk to be signed into law. Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) led the House companion, H.R. 617, which passed the House in April 2025, while Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) led the Senate companion, S.195, which passed the Senate in May 2025. “After more than two years of work, our bipartisan American Music Tourism Act is officially headed to President Trump's desk. As home to iconic destinations like Dollywood in Pigeon Forge and the Birthplace of Country Music in Bristol, Tennessee's First District plays a vital role in the music tourism industry, and this bill will have a direct impact on a district that lives and breathes it. I'm grateful to Senator Blackburn for getting this bill through the Senate, and I look forward to President Trump signing it into law,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “The Volunteer State is home to so many iconic musical landmarks for tourists to experience – from Graceland in Memphis to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville to Dollywood in Pigeon Forge,” said Senator Marsha Blackburn. “Music tourism has such a positive impact on Tennessee’s economy, and we need to ensure that fans from all over the world continue to celebrate our state’s rich history of music for generations to come. The American Music Tourism Act will promote and support the fast-growing music tourism industry, and I am pleased it is heading to President Trump’s desk.” CLICK HERE to learn more about the American Music Tourism Act. ### | 1 | 2026-09-16T09:43:13Z | 2026-09-16T09:44:22Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbargers-affordable-innovation-grid-act-passes-us-house | Harshbarger's Affordable Innovation for the Grid Act Passes U.S. House | 2026-09-15 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 9339, the Affordable Innovation for the Grid Act, legislation to direct the U.S. Secretary of Energy to assess how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and High-Performance Computing (HPC) technologies can strengthen the capacity, reliability, and efficiency of America's bulk-power system. “Today's vote gets us one step closer to a grid that can actually keep pace with America's energy needs,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “Interconnection backlogs are a drag on grid performance and American competitiveness at a moment when energy demand is skyrocketing like never before. Understanding how AI and HPCs can help our bulk-power system run on full power will be critical to ensuring affordable rates for the long term. I'm grateful to Congressman Mullin for partnering with me on this bipartisan solution, and I'll keep pushing to get it to the President's desk.” CLICK HERE to learn more about the Affordable Innovation for the Grid Act. ### | 1 | 2026-09-16T09:43:13Z | 2026-09-16T09:44:22Z |
| https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/van-epps-and-mccollum-introduce-bipartisan-critical-materials-future-act | Van Epps and McCollum Introduce Bipartisan Critical Materials Future Act | 2026-09-15 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | Matt Van Epps | V000139 | vanepps.house.gov | vanepps | https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Matt Van Epps (R-TN) and Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D-MN) introduced the Critical Materials Future Act. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation would establish a pilot program at the Department of Energy to financially support domestic critical material processing projects. “Relying on foreign sources for our critical mineral supply is gambling with both our economic and national security. Today, China leads global processing of key critical minerals, refining more than 90% of graphite and nearly all gallium, which are essential to semiconductors and batteries. China also refines more than 90% of rare earth elements used in magnets for advanced defense technologies,” said Rep. Van Epps. “It is far past time for the United States to end this dangerous dependence. We can do this by paving the way for more critical mineral processing right here at home. That’s why I’m proud to co-lead the Critical Materials Future Act alongside Congresswoman McCollum. This bipartisan legislation establishes a pilot program to support companies committed to building critical mineral processing operations here in the United States. By strengthening our domestic supply chains, this legislation will reduce our dependence on foreign adversaries and move us one step closer to revitalizing the American defense industrial base." “Securing a domestic critical mineral supply chain is essential for manufacturing clean energy technologies,” said Rep. McCollum. “For far too long, critical minerals extracted from our public lands have been shipped overseas for processing to be sold on the global market or bought back by American companies. That is not good stewardship of our natural resources, nor is it a good national security strategy. The Critical Materials Future Act will ensure that when we extract these resources, we also have the capacity to process them here at home.” The U.S. critical minerals list contains 50 minerals—including graphite, nickel, and cobalt—that are essential to our economy, inf… | 1 | 2026-09-16T09:43:13Z | 2026-09-16T09:44:22Z |
| https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-s-remarks-on-innovation-and-disaster-prevention-at-sst-committee-hearing | Rep. Van Epps’s Remarks on Innovation and Disaster Prevention at SST Committee Hearing | 2026-09-15 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | Matt Van Epps | V000139 | vanepps.house.gov | vanepps | https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. - Rep. Van Epps (TN-07) participated in a Science, Space, and Technology (SST) Committee hearing titled “Innovation in Disaster Prevention: Advancing Technology for Prediction and Response.” Watch Rep. Van Epps’ statement and questions here. “Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you to our witnesses for being here today. I’m grateful for the work the Chairman and this committee have done to prioritize natural disaster preparedness and response. In 2023, Middle Tennessee was hit by an EF-3 tornado, resulting in 4 fatalities and significant damage. In 2021, deadly flash floods struck Humphreys County, tragically killing 20. When a catastrophic weather event strikes, the lives of Americans can change dramatically – I've seen it firsthand in Tennessee working in the State Government. That’s why we must use the best technology at our disposal to equip first responders to appropriately prepare and respond to these natural disasters.” | 1 | 2026-09-26T09:43:57Z | 2026-09-26T09:44:55Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/09/14/hagerty-tn-delegation-urge-swift-approval-of-major-disaster-declaration-requests-after-severe-weather-impacts-west-tennessee/ | Hagerty, TN Delegation Urge Swift Approval of Major Disaster Declaration Requests After Severe Weather Impacts West Tennessee | 2026-09-14 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | WASHINGTON—On Friday, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) joined the Tennessee delegation in sending a letter to President Donald Trump urging his swift approval of Governor Bill Lee’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration following severe storms that affected areas of West Tennessee. Co-signers of the letter include Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), along with Representatives Diana Harshbarger (R-TN-01), Tim Burchett (R-TN-02), Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN-03), Scott DesJarlais (R-TN-04), Matt Van Epps (R-TN-07), David Kustoff (R-TN-08), and Steve Cohen (D-TN-09). A copy of the letter can be found here and below. Dear Mr. President: We write to urge swift approval of Governor Bill Lee’s request for a major disaster declaration pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act due to severe weather occurring on August 22, 2026. On August 22, a severe thunderstorm moved through the Mid-South and into West Tennessee, producing widespread damaging straight-line winds. Severe weather, including prolific straight-line winds and hail, caused significant damage to the power grid, particularly in Shelby County. The National Weather Service reported that more than 130,000 customers were without power, in addition to extensive tree damage, downed power lines, and road closures. Peak wind speeds were estimated between 60 and 80 miles per hour, with the storm lasting approximately 45 minutes in Shelby County and 90 minutes across the entire affected area. Ongoing extreme heat following the storm also posed serious risks to vulnerable residents, including seniors, young children, people with disabilities, low-income households, and those without access to cooling. To respond to this disaster, Governor Lee is specifically requesting a Major Disaster Declaration for Individual Assistance and Public Assistance for Shelby County and Hazard Mitigation statewide. The State is also requesting direct Federal assistance for debris management support, including technical monitoring and mentoring t… | 1 | 2026-09-15T09:50:21Z | 2026-09-15T09:52:05Z |
| https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-commemorates-the-25th-anniversary-of-september-11th | Rep. Van Epps Commemorates the 25th Anniversary of September 11th | 2026-09-11 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | Matt Van Epps | V000139 | vanepps.house.gov | vanepps | https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. Matt Van Epps released a video reflecting on the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, remembering the nearly 3,000 Americans who lost their lives that day and honoring the first responders, servicemembers, and their families who sacrificed in the years that followed. Click below to watch Rep. Van Epps’ video. Image Twenty-five years ago, our country changed forever. I was a freshman at West Point on September 11, 2001. I remember watching the towers fall in the classroom. In that moment, we knew America was under attack. And for those of us at West Point, that day changed the course of our lives. We knew we would graduate into a nation at war, and we began preparing for the fight ahead. My class became known as the “Class of 9/11.” We graduated in 2005, and many of us went on to serve in Iraq and Afghanistan. I eventually joined the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, flying missions to hunt down high-value targets and terrorist leaders in search of justice for that September day. For many of us, serving was the honor of a lifetime. But the privilege of serving our country came with a heavy price, paid by servicemembers and their families. Sadly, some of my classmates and thousands of servicemembers made the ultimate sacrifice in the war on terror. Today, as we mark the 25th Anniversary of September 11th, we remember the nearly 3,000 Americans who were killed that day. We remember the firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and every American who ran toward danger and gave their lives trying to save their brothers and sisters. We remember the servicemembers who answered the call in the years that followed and didn’t come home. For my generation, September 11th was a defining moment. For new generations, it is becoming a date in history. That is why we have to keep telling the stories. We must never forget what happened, who we lost, and the sacrifices that were made in defense of our freedom. Twenty-five years later, America’s resolve must remain stea… | 1 | 2026-09-12T09:02:30Z | 2026-09-12T09:03:27Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/9/video-blackburn-honors-victims-of-9-11-on-25th-anniversary | VIDEO: Blackburn Honors Victims of 9/11 on 25th Anniversary | 2026-09-11 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released a video marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11th terror attacks and honoring the victims, their families, the first responders, and the service members who answered the call. “Let’s make certain we never forget and that we remember those families, those victims, the loss of life, and the attack on our country,” said Senator Blackburn. “And let’s be grateful for the men and women who stood up against that attack. Never forget.” | 1 | 2026-09-12T09:02:30Z | 2026-09-12T09:03:27Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/09/11/icymi-hagerty-joinsthe-scott-jennings-show-on-salem-news-channel-to-discuss-midterms-iran-memphis-blade-act/ | ICYMI—Hagerty JoinsThe Scott Jennings Show on Salem News Channel to Discuss Midterms, Iran, Memphis, BLADE Act | 2026-09-11 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | DALLAS—On Thursday, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined The Scott Jennings Show on Salem News Channel to discuss the upcoming midterm election, the latest in Iran, the Memphis Safe Task Force, and the BLADE Act. *Click the photo above or here to watch* Partial Transcript Hagerty on the RNC Convention: We have had a great delegation from Tennessee and frankly, great delegations from all over the country. There’s a lot of excitement, a lot of enthusiasm. People loved [President Donald Trump’s] speech last night—a lot of energy there. And frankly, a lot of people that weren’t here, but I’ve heard from across the country that are very pleased to see the energy turnaround. And frankly, to be drawing a contrast finally against Democratic candidates. I think people are tired of reading New York Times headlines running these generic polls, Republicans versus Democrats. And now that we actually see what a Democratic socialist stands for, there’s a huge contrast to be made. I think if you just step back and look at what the Democrats have accomplished this past 18, 20 months, they’ve delivered the two longest government shutdowns in history. What they seem to want to deliver is nothing but chaos, shutdowns, and acrimony. The American public hasn’t seen anything positive coming from the Democrats. Hagerty on Iran: The Iranian regime is holding on to see what happens on November the third. It certainly worked out well for them back in 2020. Back at that point in time, I was the U.S. ambassador to Japan. I got the Japanese and my colleagues around the world… to stop buying Iranian crude oil… We brought the Iranian economy to a difficult place. It’s even worse right now, but the Iranians held out to see what would happen in the election. Having [former President Joe Biden] in the Oval Office was a gift extraordinaire to the Iranian regime, because immediately the Biden [administration] stopped enforcing all sanctions. Money bega… | 1 | 2026-09-12T09:02:30Z | 2026-09-12T09:03:27Z |
| https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/from-the-battlefield-to-congress-911-shaped-the-men-and-women-who-answered-the-call-to-serve | From the Battlefield to Congress, 9/11 Shaped the Men and Women Who Answered the Call to Serve | 2026-09-11 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | Matt Van Epps | V000139 | vanepps.house.gov | vanepps | https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — Twenty-five years after the 9/11 terrorist attacks devastated our nation, a generation of patriots stepped up to answer the call to service. In a brand-new episode of the Republican Study Committee’s (RSC) Right to the Point podcast, Rep. Matt Van Epps (TN-07) sits down with Rep. Gabe Evans (CO-08) to discuss the events leading up to 9/11, reflect on the twenty-five years since 9/11, and share their unique perspectives as members of the generation whose lives and careers were shaped by the impacts of the worst terrorist attack in history. Both Congressmen recall where they were on America’s darkest day. Rep. Van Epps was a freshman at West Point when the whole trajectory of his young career was changed, and Rep. Evans was a young high schooler with his whole life ahead of him. They recount how the event influenced their decision to serve, led them to the Middle East, and continues to inform their service in the halls of Congress today. The Congressmen also highlight the progress the U.S. military has made to rebuild its strength and deterrence under President Trump and Republicans. The Working Families Tax Cuts Act delivered a $150 billion investment into America’s national security, helping equip servicemembers with the resources to meet the threats of tomorrow. House Republicans also passed the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027, taking a major step toward ensuring the United States remains the world’s preeminent fighting force. You can listen to the full episode on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. | 1 | 2026-09-26T09:43:57Z | 2026-09-26T09:44:55Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-introduces-legislation-fix-outdated-fda-drug-preclusion-rules | Harshbarger Introduces Legislation to Fix Outdated FDA Drug Preclusion Rules, Protect Access to Dietary Supplements | 2026-09-10 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | “Ambiguous FDA standards can leave manufacturers without guidance and consumers guessing about which products are available,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “For decades, this broken drug preclusion process has allowed Washington bureaucrats to threaten lawful dietary supplements that have safely been purchased over the counter for years, stifling innovation and denying Americans access to products they already trust. My bill delivers the regulatory certainty manufacturers need to innovate and invest with confidence, while establishing transparency and predictability within the drug preclusion framework and preserving consumer access to dietary supplements.” “Representative Harshbarger has introduced exactly the kind of thoughtful, balanced legislation this issue has needed for years,” said Steve Mister, President & CEO of the Council for Responsible Nutrition. “This bill doesn't weaken FDA or undermine pharmaceutical innovation. Instead, it restores the balance Congress intended when it enacted DSHEA by creating evenhanded, transparent, or predictable rules that allow both industries to innovate while protecting consumer access to safe dietary supplements. We commend Representative Harshbarger for her leadership and strongly urge Congress to advance this legislation.” “We applaud Representative Harshbarger for introducing this important legislation, which modernizes an outdated provision of law, provides much-needed regulatory certainty, and helps ensure consumer access keeps pace with innovation,” said Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) President and CEO Scott Melville. | 1 | 2026-09-11T09:25:29Z | 2026-09-11T09:27:08Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/9/blackburn-duckworth-reintroduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-improve-life-saving-emergency-communication-technology | Blackburn, Duckworth Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Life-Saving Emergency Communication Technology | 2026-09-10 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), members of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, reintroduced legislation to improve emergency communication technology and help save lives. The ITS Codification Act would codify the Institute for Telecommunication Sciences (ITS), which currently serves as the research and engineering laboratory at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, and require ITS to develop emergency communication and tracking technologies to help locate trapped individuals in confined spaces where conventional radio communication is limited. “First responders in Tennessee need access to reliable technology that will help them locate trapped individuals in confined spaces where radio signals fail,” said Senator Blackburn. “Our bipartisan ITS Codification Act would drive the development of advanced communication technologies to help first responders save more lives when every second counts.” | 1 | 2026-09-12T09:02:30Z | 2026-09-12T09:03:27Z |
| https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-david-kustoff-meets-west-tennesseans-during-august-district-work | Congressman David Kustoff Meets with West Tennesseans During August District Work Period | 2026-09-10 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | David Kustoff | K000392 | kustoff.house.gov | kustoff | https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | September 10, 2026 MEMPHIS, TN — During the month of August, Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN-08) spent the district work period back home in Tennessee’s 8th Congressional District, meeting directly with West Tennesseans and discussing the issues important to communities across the region. “The heartbeat of America is found in places like West Tennessee,” said Congressman Kustoff. “Last month, I met with farmers, health care providers, manufacturers, law enforcement officers, small business owners, and civic leaders across Tennessee’s 8th Congressional District. Those conversations shape my work in Washington, and I will continue fighting for the West Tennesseans who make our community strong.” Congressman Kustoff’s August stops and events included: Shelby County FedEx: Met with FedEx President & CEO Raj Subramaniam in Memphis to discuss the logistics company’s vital role in our state and national economy. Orgill: Toured Orgill’s state-of-the-art Innovation Center with President & CEO Boyden Moore and learned more about the company’s work supporting independent retailers. Epicenter Memphis: Led a roundtable discussion at Epicenter Memphis with Launch Tennessee CEO Lindsey Cox, local entrepreneurs, and startup founders. Frederick W. Smith International Airport: Attended the renaming and dedication ceremony for Frederick W. Smith International Airport, honoring FedEx founder Fred Smith. International Port of Memphis: Toured the International Port of Memphis with local transportation and economic development leaders, including EDGE Memphis President and CEO Dr. Joann Massey, Executive Director of the Port of Memphis and Vice President of Port and Industrial Properties Randy Richardson, and Port Operations Manager Larry Baker. FedEx Freight: Met with FedEx Freight CEO John Smith to discuss the company’s freight transportation operations. Medtronic: Toured Medtronic’s Shelby County facility with Site Director Brandon Gentry and discussed the company’s work in spinal, cranial, and surgical technologies. Smit… | 1 | 2026-09-16T09:43:13Z | 2026-09-16T09:44:22Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/09/09/icymi-hagerty-joins-varney-co-on-fox-business-to-discuss-tariffs-on-israel-affordability/ | ICYMI—Hagerty Joins Varney & Co. on Fox Business to Discuss Tariffs on Israel, Affordability | 2026-09-09 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | WASHINGTON—Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty, (R-TN), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined Varney & Co. on Fox Business to discuss the foreign trade restrictions on Israel and affordability ahead of the midterm election. *Click the photo above or here to watch* Partial Transcript Hagerty on foreign trade restrictions on Israel: I’m disappointed, but I’m not surprised. If you look at [the United Kingdom, Canada, France and others], they’re much more concerned about their own domestic politics—appeasing the left in their own countries—than they are about supporting Israel, who is locked arm in arm with the United States and its Arab neighbors trying to defeat a 47-year-old terrorist regime in Iran. Rather than do that, rather than step up to the larger macro issues, they are pandering and dealing with the [Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS)] crowd in their own countries. They should actually be focusing on more important issues in their own countries… Their military capability that they’ve let wane; they should be beefing that up. Their energy independence—that they’ve lost—instead of depending on Russia, they should be building and working with us. Here they are wasting their time, again, pandering to domestic politics. Hagerty on affordability: I’m in Dallas right now. I was with [Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA)] last night. He makes a very important case: One thing that doesn’t seem to be getting covered very much at all is the fact that job growth is on the rebound. We have exceptional job growth in the private sector. Wages are growing again. That was not the case under Joe Biden, where wages were growing at half the rate of inflation. Under Biden, we had inflation over 9%. We brought that down… I’ve got the Freedom to Build Act that targets the incredibly high cost of housing right now. The bureaucrat tax, as it’s called, the cost of permitting before you even build the house can be as high as $100,000 in some areas. Dealing with this … | 1 | 2026-09-10T09:25:58Z | 2026-09-10T09:27:09Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-host-sixth-annual-military-academy-day | Harshbarger to Host Sixth Annual Military Academy Day | 2026-09-08 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Kingsport, TN — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) announced today that she will host her sixth annual Military Service Academy Day, connecting students and families across Tennessee's First Congressional District with representatives from our nation's elite service academies and giving students a firsthand look at the path to a military education. "Six years in, and it's still one of my greatest privileges to help students across Northeast Tennessee pursue their dream of serving our country," said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. "Attending one of our nation's elite service academies is a tremendous honor, and I am proud to assist students in East Tennessee who seek to serve our country in the future. Each year, this event opens the door for young folks to engage directly with representatives from our military academies, ask questions, and begin charting their course toward a future of service to America." Students will get the chance to speak with representatives about course selection, extracurricular activities, and more. The event will be held on Saturday, September 19th at the Kingsport Center for Higher Education, located at 300 W. Market Street in Kingsport, TN 37660. Registration begins at 9:00 AM. RSVPs are required for attendance: TN01.Academy@mail.house.gov Representatives from the following Military Academies will be in attendance: U.S. Air Force Academy U.S. Coast Guard Academy U.S. Merchant Marine Academy U.S. Naval Academy U.S. Military Academy - West Point For frequently asked questions regarding military service academy nominations, please clickHERE. | 1 | 2026-09-09T09:27:09Z | 2026-09-09T09:29:04Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/09/04/hagerty-applauds-appointment-of-former-chief-of-staff-as-acting-army-secretary/ | Hagerty Applauds Appointment of Former Chief of Staff as Acting Army Secretary | 2026-09-04 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | WASHINGTON—On Thursday, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) commended President Donald Trump’s appointment of Hagerty’s former chief of staff, Adam Telle, as acting secretary of the Army. The president announced Telle’s appointment via a post on Truth Social. In the post, Trump noted that Telle was “a Great Patriot, who is respected by all.” Telle has a more than 20-year career in public service. He began his tenure in Washington in 2005, serving as a staff member to Sen. Richard Shelby (R-AL) upon his graduation from Mississippi State University, and later as legislative director and deputy chief of staff to Sen. Thad Cochran (R-MS). Telle served as the chief staff member on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security before moving to the White House Office of Legislative Affairs to serve as Trump’s chief liaison to the Senate during the president’s first term. Among his many accomplishments as liaison, Telle played a pivotal role in implementing the Abraham Accords, as well as in establishing the U.S. Space Force, the newest armed service branch in nearly 70 years. In August 2021, Telle returned to Capitol Hill to serve on Hagerty’s staff, where he rose to chief of staff. After President Trump won the 2024 election, Telle was appointed to serve as Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works during the president’s second term in August 2025. During his time as Assistant Secretary, Telle transformed the Army Corps of Engineers’ Civil Works Program, focusing on major national infrastructure projects involving commercial navigation, flood and storm-damage reduction, water resources, environmental restoration and permitting. During his confirmation process, Telle earned the support of the Senate as he advanced through both the Senate Armed Services and the Environment and Public Works Committees and was confirmed by the entire body in a bipartisan 72-22 vote. “Adam has repeatedly proven himself as a tried and tested leader,” said Hagerty. “Through his service across multiple areas of … | 1 | 2026-09-05T08:49:07Z | 2026-09-05T08:50:44Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/9/blackburn-warner-reintroduce-bill-to-increase-transparency-of-medicare-advantage-benefits-for-seniors | Blackburn, Warner Reintroduce Bill to Increase Transparency of Medicare Advantage Benefits for Seniors | 2026-09-04 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.), members of the Senate Finance Committee, reintroduced the Medicare Advantage Supplemental Benefits Transparency Act, legislation that would require Medicare Advantage (MA) plans to publicly report the supplemental benefits they offer and the extent to which beneficiaries use them. “Transparency in Medicare Advantage plans is long overdue,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Medicare Advantage Supplemental Benefits Transparency Act would ensure beneficiaries receive the full value they’ve been promised by requiring plans to publicly report the supplemental benefits they offer and how often seniors actually use them.” “We need clear and accessible data in order to properly evaluate the effectiveness of the Medicare Advantage program,” said Senator Warner.“This legislation will make sure we can ensure the sustainability of Medicare and better evaluate plans, so seniors have the best coverage for their needs.” BACKGROUND In recent years, the use of Medicare Advantage has skyrocketed, with more than half of eligible beneficiaries nationwide choosing to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. However, there is currently no statutory requirement to specifically report on supplemental benefits, making data on available benefits and their utilization unreliable. Senator Blackburn’s legislation would ensure this information is available to understand beneficiary use of supplemental benefits and their impact on the sustainability of the Medicare program. MEDICARE ADVANTAGE SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS TRANSPARENCY ACT Specifically, the legislation would require Medicare Advantage plans to report enrollee-level data on supplemental benefits to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), as well as report eligibility for benefits, the types of benefit categories offered, and data on utilization of and payments for such benefits. There is currently no statutory requirement to specifically report on supplemental benefits, making data on available… | 1 | 2026-09-09T09:27:09Z | 2026-09-09T09:29:04Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-introduces-resolution-honoring-life-and-legacy-dolly-parton-0 | Harshbarger Introduces Resolution Honoring Life and Legacy of Dolly Parton, Leads Moment of Silence on House Floor | 2026-09-02 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) today introduced a resolution honoring the life and legacy of Dolly Parton, the Sevier County native whose music, generosity, and devotion to her East Tennessee roots continue to touch the lives of millions following her passing on Aug. 25, 2026, in Nashville, at age 80. The resolution was co-led by Congressman John Rose (R-TN) and cosponsored by the entire Tennessee House delegation. Harshbarger also led a moment of silence on the House Floor this evening in Parton's honor. “Dolly Parton was one of our own, and she never forgot where she came from,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “Her music told the truth about hard work, faith, and family, and that truth is why the whole world fell in love with her. But it was her heart that made her a legend at home. Whether she was rebuilding after the wildfires that tore through her own community, opening doors for children to learn to read, supporting healthcare and research for Tennessee families, or protecting the mountains she loved, Dolly gave back every chance she got. Guided by her faith and shaped by her East Tennessee upbringing, she used her success to lift up the people around her at every turn. My prayers are with her family and everyone who loved her, and I am honored to lead this effort in the House to make sure her legacy is remembered for generations to come.” “We couldn’t have asked for a better ambassador for Tennessee than Dolly Parton,” said Congressman John Rose. “She will continue to touch countless lives through her music and philanthropy, including the Imagination Library, and her impact on tourism in East Tennessee will be felt for decades to come. I was honored to sign onto this resolution which recognizes her extraordinary life.” “Dolly Parton embodied everything it meant to be an East Tennessean. Her voice, her style, and her outlook on life were all born from her upbringing in Sevierville. She rose from a poor, rural farmhouse to the peaks of stardom, never forgetting the people … | 1 | 2026-09-03T09:29:33Z | 2026-09-03T09:31:32Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbargers-nuclear-advisory-committee-reform-act-advances-through-energy-and | Harshbarger's Nuclear Advisory Committee Reform Act Advances Through Energy and Commerce Committee | 2026-09-02 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) released the following statement after the House Energy and Commerce Committee advanced her Nuclear Advisory Committee Reform Act at today's full committee markup, sending the bill to the full House for consideration: “China is racing to build reactors while we bury our own designs in paperwork, and that ends with this bill. Today's vote takes us one step closer to making sure our nuclear safety experts are spending their time on the issues that actually matter instead of duplicating work the NRC has already done. I'm grateful to Chairman Guthrie for helping get this through committee, and I'll keep pushing until it's signed into law,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. | 1 | 2026-09-03T09:29:33Z | 2026-09-03T09:31:32Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-chuck-fleischmann-secures-3-million-for-utc-s-translational-research-program | Congressman Chuck Fleischmann Secures $3 Million for UTC’s Translational Research Program | 2026-08-31 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC — Congressman Chuck Fleischmann has successfully secured $3 million in federal funding to advance the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) Translational Research Program. This significant investment underscores UTC’s commitment to pioneering research and innovation that directly benefits the community and the region. The funding, awarded as part of a federal appropriations package, will support UTC’s efforts to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and real-world application. The Translational Research Program at UTC focuses on translating groundbreaking research into practical solutions. “I am proud to champion investments that strengthen our region’s future. This $3 million in federal funding for UTC’s Translational Research Program will empower our university to turn cutting-edge research into real solutions that benefit Chattanooga, the entire state of Tennessee, and our great nation. Supporting innovation and higher education is critical to creating jobs, advancing technology, and improving lives right here at home,” said Congressman Fleischmann. “This investment represents an important next step in expanding UTC’s research enterprise and strengthening our ability to turn discovery into solutions that make a real difference in people’s lives,” Chancellor Lori Mann Bruce said. “As these funds become available, we can begin putting the people, tools and infrastructure in place to move promising ideas from the laboratory into practical application. We are deeply grateful to Congressman Fleischmann for once again investing in UTC and recognizing the important role our University can play in driving innovation, economic growth and opportunity for Chattanooga, Tennessee and beyond.” Congressman Fleischmann’s support reflects his ongoing commitment to advancing science, technology, and education in Tennessee. With this funding, UTC will expand research opportunities and foster collaborations with industry and community partners. | 1 | 2026-09-01T09:48:49Z | 2026-09-01T09:49:51Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-bipartisan-bill-to-prevent-sexual-abuse-of-prison-staff-heads-to-president-trump-s-desk | Blackburn Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Sexual Abuse of Prison Staff Heads to President Trump’s Desk | 2026-08-31 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed her bipartisan legislation, the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act, to help address the increasingly pervasive sexual assault and harassment of Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) employees by inmates: “No law enforcement officer should have to fear for their safety when they show up to work,” said Senator Blackburn. “I am pleased the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act—which will help us end the appalling sexual abuse of prison staff by inmates—has passed the House and is heading to President Trump’s desk to be signed into law.” This legislation is also co-sponsored by Senator Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.). Representative Laurel Lee (R-Fla.) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. BACKGROUND According to a February 2023 report by the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (DOJ OIG), a staggering 40% of 7,000 surveyed BOP staff stated they had been sexually harassed or sexually assaulted by an inmate. At United States Penitentiary Thomson in Illinois, there were over 300 incidents of inmate-on-staff sexual harassment in a single year. USP Thomson houses only 875 inmates. The DOJ OIG report, combined with BOP staff testimonials on this troubling problem, strongly suggests that BOP’s reporting and corrective procedures for inmate-on-staff sexual assault and harassment are inadequate, creating an institutional culture that lacks accountability and endangers BOP employees. THE PRISON STAFF SAFETY ENHANCEMENT ACT The Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act will require: The BOP to fully implement the recommendations in the Inspector General’s 2023 report regarding mitigating inmate-on-staff sexual harassment and assault and to fully ascertain the scope of the problem; The DOJ OIG to conduct an analysis of punishments for sexual harassment and sexual assault in BOP facilities; and The U.S. Attorney General to promulgate a rule adopting national… | 1 | 2026-09-02T09:19:58Z | 2026-09-02T09:20:51Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-dingell-introduce-legislation-study-chinese-threats-us-auto | Harshbarger, Dingell Introduce Legislation to Study Chinese Threats to the U.S. Auto Industry | 2026-08-28 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | “China has a playbook, and we've watched them run it on critical minerals, shipbuilding, and batteries,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “Now they're setting their sights on the global automotive market, building out their industrial base with state subsidies and flooding markets with artificially cheap products to undercut American manufacturers. As vehicles become more connected and software-driven, that strategy isn't just an economic threat, it's a national security threat and a risk to the data of every American behind the wheel. This bill gives policymakers the facts we need to understand how deep this penetration goes and to protect our automotive industry before it's too late.” “I'm a car girl—I will always fight for our auto workers and this critical industry that is the backbone of America's economy. I am proud to help lead this bipartisan piece of legislation that will create good-paying jobs and protect our national security. And we must continue our efforts to decrease our reliance on China and create a level playing field,” said Congresswoman Debbie Dingell. | 1 | 2026-08-29T11:31:28Z | 2026-08-29T11:32:37Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-duckworth-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-counter-communist-china-s-gray-zone-aggression-against-indo-pacific-partners | Blackburn, Duckworth Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Counter Communist China’s ‘Gray-Zone’ Aggression Against Indo-Pacific Partners | 2026-08-28 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) introduced bipartisan legislation to improve our nation’s capabilities to counter the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) intimidation and coercion tactics in the Indo-Pacific, which actively threaten the safety of our partners in the region as well as our national security. Known as ‘gray-zone tactics,’ these actions are aimed at disrupting regional stability while stopping just short of armed conflict—a dangerous strategy that sets the stage for even harsher intervention by the PRC in the future. The Senators’ bipartisan Countering Gray Zone Aggression by the People’s Republic of China Act would direct the State Department to enhance cooperation with our Indo-Pacific partners and better address the growing threat of PRC aggression in the region. | 1 | 2026-08-29T11:31:28Z | 2026-08-29T11:32:37Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-announces-nearly-2-million-federal-trio-funding-east-tennessee | Harshbarger Announces Nearly $2 Million in Federal TRIO Funding for East Tennessee | 2026-08-27 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | “These awards mean Talent Search and Educational Opportunity Center staff at East Tennessee State University (ETSU), Tusculum, and Douglas-Cherokee Economic Authority can keep doing this work for another year,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “My office heard directly from constituents in Johnson City, Greeneville, and across our district who were worried about what changes to this program would mean for their students, and we made sure the U.S. Department of Education understood how much this funding matters here. I'm proud of the work these grantees do every day helping first-generation and low-income students get ready for college, and I'll keep fighting for East Tennessee's fair share of these federal dollars.” “ETSU has a longstanding tradition of serving first-generation and low-income students, helping them access the opportunities they need to thrive in college and beyond,” said Dr. Brian Noland, East Tennessee State University President. “For more than 20 years, Talent Search and Educational Opportunity Centers at ETSU have annually served 1,600 students to pursue education and training beyond high school, whether at a TCAT, community college, four-year university, or through military service. Through personalized guidance, mentorship, and college and career readiness services, these programs have helped students build pathways to success. We are especially grateful to Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger for her leadership and tireless advocacy in securing funding for these programs, and we thank Senators Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty for their partnership and commitment to expanding educational opportunity. This investment will have a lasting impact on the lives of students and families throughout our region.” | 1 | 2026-08-27T16:10:01Z | 2026-08-27T16:10:50Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-introduces-legislation-end-federal-ban-home-distillation | Harshbarger Introduces Legislation to End Federal Ban on Home Distillation | 2026-08-27 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Image Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) today introduced the Freedom to Home Distill Act, legislation that would end the federal prohibition on home distillation and extend to distillers the same tax-free, personal-use exemption that home brewers of beer and wine have enjoyed since Congress updated the tax code in 1978. “It makes no sense that Americans can legally make beer and wine at home for personal consumption, but not a small batch of spirits,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “Distilling has deep roots in Tennessee and across Appalachia, tied to self-reliance and craftsmanship that go back generations. It's long past time we modernize this outdated federal law. My bill restores an important piece of that tradition and puts personal responsibility back where it belongs: with the American people.” Image Eric “Digger” Manes, star of the reality television series Moonshiners on the Discovery Channel and native of Tennessee’s First Congressional District: “It would be an understatement to say that it was an honor to be involved in authoring the Freedom to Home Distill Act. When I initially approached Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger to explore the possibility of introducing a bill that would allow hobby distillers to engage in their craft without the fear of law enforcement intervention, it was a monumental step. The apprehension of prosecution has been a persistent concern for illegal distillers since George Washington participated in the same process that is now being carried out in these Appalachian hills. My hope is that everyone who reads this will contact their federal representatives, regardless of whether they intend to pursue the hobby themselves, and request their support for this bill. Given that multiple states have legalized marijuana, it appears logical that we should be permitted to engage in our hobby without facing repercussions. Congresswoman Harshbarger has dedicated three years of research and effort to the development of this bill solely because one of her … | 1 | 2026-08-28T17:11:49Z | 2026-08-28T17:13:14Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-restore-state-authority-over-insurance | Blackburn, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Restore State Authority Over Insurance | 2026-08-27 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Mike Lee (R-Utah), and Rand Paul (R-Ky.) recently reintroduced the Federal Insurance Office Abolishment Act. The legislation would abolish the Federal Insurance Office (FIO) within the U.S. Department of the Treasury, returning sole regulatory authority over the insurance industry to the states. “Insurance regulation has long been, and should remain, a responsibility of the states,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Federal Insurance Office Abolishment Act would eliminate unnecessary federal overreach, cut red tape, and return power to the states.” “The Federal Insurance Office is a redundant, ever-expanding, unaccountable entity that infringes upon states’ authority to regulate the insurance industry,” said Senator Cruz. “This legislation will rein in bureaucratic overreach by the federal government and empower state regulators to focus on what is best for consumers in their states.” “The Federal Insurance Office does not need to exist. It’s an Obama-era expansion of the federal bureaucracy created to intrude on states’ rights,” said Senator Lee. “Our bill will formally abolish this needless expense and return insurance regulation to the states, where it has always belonged.” BACKGROUND In 1945, Congress passed the McCarran-Ferguson Act, solidifying states’ regulatory authority over the insurance industry. Following the 2008 financial crisis, the Federal Insurance Office (FIO) was created by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, which granted the FIO specific financial stability, monitoring, and international responsibilities. However, these responsibilities duplicate functions within an industry that has long been regulated at the state level and traditionally overseen by state insurance regulators. The Federal Insurance Office Abolishment Act would eliminate the FIO and restore primary regulatory authority over the insurance industry to the states. Click here for bill text | 1 | 2026-08-28T17:11:49Z | 2026-08-28T17:13:14Z |
| https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-resolution-on-fifth-anniversary-of-afghanistan-withdrawal | Rep. Van Epps’ Resolution on Fifth Anniversary of Afghanistan Withdrawal | 2026-08-26 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | House | TN | Matt Van Epps | V000139 | vanepps.house.gov | vanepps | https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Read the exclusive from Fox News’ Liz Elkind here In light of the fifth anniversary of the Biden administration’s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan, Rep. Matt Van Epps (TN-07) will introduce a resolution condemning the series of decisions that led to the death of 13 servicemembers at Abbey Gate. Rep. Van Epps said, “The United States spent upwards of two trillion dollars fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan. During these two decades, 2,400 servicemembers were killed while many more were injured. It’s impossible to measure the price of the months and years men and women had to spend away from their families, or the other sacrifices servicemembers make daily when deployed to a war zone. I deployed to Afghanistan eight times after the September 11 terrorist attacks, flying many dangerous missions as part of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR). While in Afghanistan, I saw unspeakable horrors, including the Taliban’s oppression of the Afghan people, and then I witnessed too many of my friends return home in flag-draped coffins. After all of this, watching twenty years of our nation’s collective work collapse in a matter of days was traumatic for many veterans. Despite this, I take solace in the fact that we did our job. We took out high-value terrorist targets and made the world safer as a result. This, however, does not change the fact that this withdrawal was poorly planned.” “Most agree that the United States couldn’t stay in Afghanistan indefinitely, but many also believe that there was a way to leave that didn’t result in an immediate Taliban takeover. While that may be debatable, few disagree that it was President Biden’s flawed decisions and strategic errors that resulted in the bombing at Abbey Gate, stranding 1,000 Americans, leaving billions of dollars' worth of military equipment behind, and deserting our Afghan and NATO allies,” Rep. Van Epps continued. “To make matters worse, President Biden has only ever defended his decision over the years to withdraw from Afghanistan by an arb… | 1 | 2026-08-27T16:10:01Z | 2026-08-27T16:10:50Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-blumenthal-statement-on-meta-s-landmark-17-billion-settlement-in-case-about-social-media-harms-to-kids | Blackburn & Blumenthal Statement on Meta’s Landmark $17 Billion Settlement in Case About Social Media Harms to Kids | 2026-08-26 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released the following statement after Meta reached a landmark settlement with 47 states and agreed to pay up to $17.1 billion in penalties over claims it harmed children with social media addiction: “This massive settlement shows how terrified Meta and Mark Zuckerberg are of accountability in open court. We applaud the bipartisan coalition of state Attorneys General for forcing Meta to start paying a real price for the harm its products have caused an entire generation of young people. The product design changes imposed under this settlement are a first step toward giving kids and parents the tools they need to take back control of their online lives, but they can be strengthened. Meta notes that these terms are only required to stay in place for 10 years—we must ensure permanent change. We also need safeguards that apply across the board—to all social media companies—not just Instagram and Facebook. This settlement once again demands that Congress pass the Kids Online Safety Act into law before the end of the year.” | 1 | 2026-08-27T16:10:01Z | 2026-08-27T16:10:50Z |
| https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/five-years-after-abbey-gate-republicans-say-biden-s-failures-still-haven-t-been-answered-for | Five Years After Abbey Gate, Republicans Say Biden's Failures Still Haven't Been Answered For | 2026-08-26 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | House | TN | Matt Van Epps | V000139 | vanepps.house.gov | vanepps | https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — Five years ago, an ISIS-K terrorist detonated a suicide bomb at Abbey Gate in Kabul, Afghanistan, killing 13 American servicemembers in the deadliest day for U.S. forces in Afghanistan in over a decade. On this solemn anniversary, Republican Study Committee (RSC) Members honor the memory of these American heroes and the sacrifice they made in service to our country. The botched withdrawal from Afghanistan was the direct result of the Biden-Harris administration’s failure to adequately prepare for the operation and account for the consequences of their decisions. RSC Members remain resolute that a catastrophe of this magnitude must never happen again. President Trump and Congressional Republicans have moved decisively to rebuild the strength our fallen heroes deserved. The Working Families Tax Cuts Act delivered a $150 billion investment into America’s national security, equipping our servicemembers to meet an increasingly evolving threat landscape. House Republicans also passed the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027, taking a major step toward restoring American deterrence and rebuilding the United States as the world’s preeminent fighting force. RSC Members released the following statements: “Five years ago at Abbey Gate, 13 courageous American servicemembers made the ultimate sacrifice while carrying out a dangerous mission to bring others to safety. We will never forget their bravery, and we continue to mourn with and pray for the families. This solemn anniversary is also a reminder of the catastrophic failures that led to the attack during the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan. Honoring the fallen requires accountability and resolve. We must continue to take the necessary steps to ensure our warfighters have the leadership and resources they need to prevent a tragedy of this magnitude from ever happening again,” said Rep. Mike Rogers (AL-03), Chairman of the House Committee on Armed Services. “The 13 heroes of Abbey Gate represented the very best of our nation… | 1 | 2026-09-01T09:48:49Z | 2026-09-01T09:49:51Z |
| https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-passing-dolly-parton | Statement on the Passing of Dolly Parton | 2026-08-25 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | House | TN | Tim Burchett | B001309 | burchett.house.gov | burchett | https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Following the death of Dolly Parton, Rep. Burchett (TN-02) released the following statement: "Today, Tennessee lost one of our greatest ambassadors in Dolly Parton. Her music inspired generations of Americans, and her philanthropic work helped provide greater access to education for countless young Tennesseans. She represented the very best of the American Dream, and her legacy will live on for generations to come. Rest in peace, Dolly."-- U.S. Representative Tim Burchett (TN-02) ### | 1 | 2026-08-26T05:33:32Z | 2026-08-26T05:34:56Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-statement-passing-dolly-parton | Harshbarger Statement on the Passing of Dolly Parton | 2026-08-25 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Pigeon Forge, TN — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) released the following statement today after the death of country music legend and Sevier County native Dolly Parton, who died at age 80: “Dolly Parton was one of ours,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “She grew up in the hills of Sevier County, right here in Tennessee's First District, and no matter how big her star got, she never stopped being one of us. She built Dollywood into a place that put East Tennessee on the map for the whole world to see, and through her Imagination Library, she put books in the hands of children who needed them most, including so many right here at home. Her music, her generosity, and her love for these mountains will outlast every one of us. Today, East Tennessee is praying for her family and grieving one of our own.” ### | 1 | 2026-08-26T05:33:32Z | 2026-08-26T05:34:56Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/fleischmann-applauds-nist-award-for-quantum-workforce-development-fellowship | Fleischmann Applauds NIST Award for Quantum Workforce Development Fellowship | 2026-08-24 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC - The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has awarded $4,200,000.00 in federal funding as directed by Congressman Fleischmann to strengthen our quantum workforce, marking a significant investment in the future of quantum technology in the United States. The program will recruit outstanding talent and provide rigorous, specialized training to the next generation of quantum scientists and engineers. The funding will support fellows, providing them with hands-on experience and advanced training in quantum computing and related fields. In addition to financial support for the fellows, a portion of the grant will be allocated to provide computing time, ensuring fellows have access to state-of-the-art quantum resources essential for their research and professional development. "This investment by NIST is a clear signal that America is committed to leading the world in quantum science and technology. By supporting Empowering the Future Grid: Quantum Training for Software Innovation & Utility Applications, we are ensuring that our best and brightest have the resources and training needed to drive innovation and create good-paying jobs right here at home. I’m proud to see investing in the next generation of quantum experts, strengthening our nation’s competitiveness and securing our future,” said Rep. Fleischmann. The fellowship is expected to make a significant impact in addressing the growing demand for quantum talent across academia, government, and industry, reinforcing the United States’ position at the forefront of quantum research and development. | 1 | 2026-08-25T05:31:37Z | 2026-08-25T05:33:09Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-end-federal-funding-for-harmful-gender-transition-research-on-minors | Blackburn, Colleagues Introduce Bill to End Federal Funding for Harmful Gender Transition Research on Minors | 2026-08-21 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), James Lankford (R-Okla.), and several of their Senate colleagues recently introduced theProtecting Our Kids from Harmful Research Act to prohibit the use of federal funds for any research or publication promoting gender transitions for minors. The legislation would shield American children from permanent medical and psychological damage, in line with President Trump’s agenda to keep tax dollars from funding child mutilation. “Taxpayers should not be spending a penny on research done by those who want to push harmful gender transition surgeries and radical gender ideology on our kids,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Protecting Our Kids from Harmful Research Act would prohibit the use of federal funds for any research or study on gender transition surgeries for minors.” “Why is the federal bureaucracy in the child mutilation business?” said Senator Lee. “Americans don’t want to pay millions for these disturbing studies where hundreds of kids are experimented on with puberty-blocking drugs. President Trump rightly halted this attack on America’s kids. Our bill will codify his agenda to keep federal dollars out of gender transition research involving minors.” “God creates every child male or female in His perfect image,” said Senator Lankford. “For too long, taxpayers have been forced to fund sex-rejecting studies on kids. The result has been irreversible physical harm, mental health crises, and families torn apart. President Trump has led the effort to shut down these grants across the federal government, and Congress needs to make it permanent. This bill ensures that not one more taxpayer dollar funds research designed to harm children.” This legislation is also co-sponsored by Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), and Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.). It is endorsed by Students for Life Action and the American Principles Project. BACKGROUND Between 2019 and 2023, nearly 14,000 children were prescrib… | 1 | 2026-08-22T05:24:59Z | 2026-08-22T05:26:16Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-blumenthal-press-tiktok-for-intentionally-withholding-safety-features-from-children | Blackburn, Blumenthal Press TikTok for Intentionally Withholding Safety Features From Children | 2026-08-20 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) sent a letter to TikTok regarding a recent report that the social media company endangered children by knowingly withholding an algorithmic safety measure from millions of American users to determine whether the safeguard would reduce engagement on its platform. In the letter, Senator Blackburn and Senator Blumenthal requested a prompt response to a detailed list of questions, including whether TikTok conducted a risk assessment before the experiment, what the results of the experiment were, and how many U.S. users TikTok has placed in experiments that withheld safety features. Senator Blackburn and Senator Blumenthal’s Kids Online Safety Act would require social media platforms like TikTok to design their products with child safety in mind. New Report Reveals TikTok Conducted Harmful Experiment on 15 Million U.S. Users “According to reports, TikTok developed changes to its recommendation algorithm intended to prevent users from being repeatedly and intentionally exposed to potentially harmful content, including videos concerning sadness, loneliness, extreme dieting, and other sensitive subjects. In December 2021, TikTok publicly announced that it was testing ways to avoid recommending clusters of similar content that could be harmful when viewed repeatedly. TikTok did not disclose, however, its depraved decision to intentionally withhold these protections from approximately 10 percent of its U.S. users—a control group that reportedly represented approximately 15 million Americans at the time… TikTok appeared fixated on whether the safety measure would affect user engagement or the ‘stickiness’ of the platform —trying to put the price tag on safety. Even more troubling, this control group, presumably intentionally, included minors.” | 1 | 2026-08-21T05:30:57Z | 2026-08-21T05:32:22Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-applauds-recent-hhs-crackdown-sex-rejecting-procedures-children | Harshbarger Applauds Recent HHS Crackdown on Sex-Rejecting Procedures for Children | 2026-08-14 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) released the following statement praising a series of recent actions by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to protect children from sex-rejecting procedures, including a report exposing fraudulent billing practices that led to referrals of hospitals and clinics to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and HHS Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), and a new Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) rule ending federal Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) funding for these procedures. “Families trust physicians with their children's care, and this week's revelations show that trust was betrayed in the worst possible way. HHS's report exposes an industry that turned vulnerable, healthy children into a cash cow business, using fraudulent diagnosis codes to bill nearly $120 million while inflicting permanent damage on children who deserved protection, not to be used for profit,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “Every child is a precious gift from God, made exactly as He intended, and no doctor, no hospital, and no insurance company has the right to convince a child otherwise in order to add to their bottom line. I am grateful CMS is finally cutting off every taxpayer dollar that funded this abuse, and I will not rest until Congress passes my STOP Act and TRUTH in Coverage Act so this industry can never prey on another child again.” BACKGROUND: HHS Report on Fraudulent Billing Practices A new HHS report titled "Wolves in White Coats: How Doctors and Hospitals Pushed and Profited from the Fraud of 'Gender Medicine'" found that financial incentives drove hospitals nationwide to treat physiologically healthy children as "captive patients," billing nearly $120 million for sex-rejecting procedures on minors since 2019 and covering more than 5,500 surgeries and 8,500 courses of hormones or puberty blockers. The report identified nearly $50 million in insurance claims for puberty blockers billed using vague or inaccurat… | 1 | 2026-08-15T05:23:20Z | 2026-08-15T05:24:50Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/08/13/icymi-hagerty-joins-fox-news-sunday-on-fox-news-channel-to-discuss-iran-senate-recess/ | ICYMI—Hagerty Joins Fox News Sunday on Fox News Channel to Discuss Iran, Senate Recess | 2026-08-13 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | Washington—On Sunday, United States Senator Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined Fox News Sunday on Fox News Channel to discuss the latest in Iran and the Senate’s agenda following the August Recess. *Click the photo above or here to watch* Partial Transcript Hagerty on Iran: Diplomacy is being tested at every turn of the Iranian regime. They don’t seem to favor diplomacy unless they can use it to tap us along. [President Donald Trump] has seen right through this. We have maintained maximum military capabilities. In fact, he has enhanced our military capability. And what you see now is an act of desperation because President Trump had prepared to unleash unmitigated fury on Iran, just the past weekend, when they came to the table again and said, “No, we want to make a deal.” And let’s not forget that [Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent] and the team at Treasury have put incredible financial pressure on Iran. Their economy is in tatters right now. They are doing the same thing over and over again. I know people call that the definition of insanity; I think that’s diplomacy Iranian-style, coming back with more of the same demands, et cetera, et cetera. But what has happened is that they continue to degrade in their position; we continue to advance in terms of economic pressure, military pressure. Hagerty on a pending peace deal in Iran: There is going to have to be a deal. I think the American public is indicating it’s ready for a deal to be done, and that deal could be at the end of a military operation as opposed to diplomacy. It’s up to the Iranians, but I think we’re very close, particularly as I listen to Secretary Bessent… I think the [Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)], the Iran deal that we saw in [former President Barack Obama’s administration], demonstrated that you can’t trust the Iranians. Everything that we agree to is going to have to be verifiable and enforceable. President Trump has already seen this movie before. … | 1 | 2026-08-14T06:13:05Z | 2026-08-14T06:14:08Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/08/06/hagerty-introduces-bill-to-end-housing-welfare-for-illegal-aliens/ | Hagerty Introduces Bill to End Housing Welfare for Illegal Aliens | 2026-08-06 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | Democrats have aided and abetted illegal aliens’ exploitation of federal housing benefits WASHINGTON—On Wednesday, Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, introduced the End Housing Welfare for Illegal Aliens Act, a bill aimed at barring ineligible non-citizens from abusing federal housing programs at the expense of American taxpayers. Illegal aliens have long exploited federal housing programs by taking advantage of gaps in existing law, such as the “mixed-status” loophole that allows for non-citizens to improperly receive benefits if they are roommates in the same household as citizens. Democrats have facilitated such abuse for political gain, because overrunning sanctuary cities with illegal aliens artificially boosts their party’s power and representation when congressional districts are reapportioned. These abuses crowd out vulnerable Americans—including the elderly and the disabled—waste taxpayer dollars, and endanger the integrity of the electoral process. The End Housing Welfare for Illegal Aliens Act would: Deny Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) grants to sanctuary cities End illegal alien eligibility for Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs designated for American seniors and persons with disabilities Require public housing authorities to affirmatively verify citizenship before providing services Codify HUD rulemaking to permanently close the “mixed-status” loophole, which allows illegals who are roommates with eligible individuals to reap the benefits of taxpayer-funded housing. Under the Trump Administration, HUD has estimated that approximately 24,000 illegal aliens, ineligibles, and fraudsters in 20,000 of these “mixed-status households” benefit from HUD assistance “For too long, Democrats have encouraged illegal aliens to raid taxpayer-funded housing programs while American families, seniors, and people with disabilities are left waiting in line,” said Hagerty. “My legislation, the End Housing Welfare for Illegal Aliens Act, adv… | 1 | 2026-08-07T06:11:19Z | 2026-08-07T06:12:42Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-blumenthal-celebrate-commerce-committee-passage-of-bipartisan-kids-online-safety-act | Blackburn & Blumenthal Celebrate Commerce Committee Passage of Bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act | 2026-08-05 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released the following statement on the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, & Transportation’s passage of the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) by voice vote: “For years, heartbroken parents have demanded Congress take action to protect America’s children from Big Tech’s exploitation, and today is a major victory for the courageous families who refused to give up,” said Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal. “The Senate has repeatedly shown that there is broad, bipartisan support for a version of KOSA that creates a duty of care to protect kids from online predators, addictive algorithms, and harmful product design. We want to thank our large, diverse, and determined coalition for standing with us today, and we look forward to getting this bill to the President’s desk.” BACKGROUND Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal first introduced KOSA in February 2022, following reporting by the Wall Street Journal and after spearheading a series of five subcommittee hearings with social media companies and advocates on the repeated failures by tech giants to protect kids on their platforms. The Senate version of KOSA would require platforms to enable the strongest privacy settings by default, force platforms to prevent and mitigate specific dangers to minors, provide parents and educators new controls to help protect children, and require independent audits and research into social media companies. | 1 | 2026-08-06T07:37:31Z | 2026-08-06T07:38:34Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/08/05/hagerty-colleagues-introduce-the-blocking-large-scale-adversarial-distillation-efforts-blade-act/ | Hagerty, Colleagues Introduce the Blocking Large-Scale Adversarial Distillation Efforts (BLADE) Act | 2026-08-05 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | The unauthorized use of American AI models by foreign adversaries is a threat to both economic and national security WASHINGTON—Today, Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), along with Senate Banking Chairman Tim Scott (R-SC), Sen. Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking Subcommittee on National Security and International Trade and Finance, and Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), introduced the Blocking Large-Scale Adversarial Distillation Efforts (BLADE) Act of 2026, a bipartisan bill to deter malign foreign actors from stealing the proprietary capabilities of America’s frontier AI companies. Recent news reports have detailed the large-scale use of “model extraction attacks” by Chinese entities to distill the unique competitive advantages of America’s top AI models. Such foreign model extraction attacks—which typically circumvent technical controls, use fraudulent or unauthorized credentials, and violate terms of use in order to harvest proprietary capabilities from U.S. models without the owner’s permission—evade U.S. export controls and threaten U.S. economic security and national security. To deter unauthorized and illicit foreign model extraction attacks, the BLADE Act would direct the Executive Branch to identify and publicly expose foreign entities behind these malign activities, coordinate with industry to improve detection, and authorize the imposition of Commerce Department export controls and Treasury Department financial sanctions against these foreign entities. “As the United States must remain at the forefront of competitiveness in artificial intelligence, we cannot allow our adversaries to steal the intellectual property of America’s top AI companies and thereby threaten U.S. national security and economic security,” said Hagerty. “The BLADE Act will expose and punish foreign entities that conduct hostile distillation campaigns against our frontier AI companies. Our nation must counter malign actors who seek to subvert our nation’s leadership and innovation in artificial intelligence.” “Th… | 1 | 2026-08-06T07:37:31Z | 2026-08-06T07:38:34Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-leads-colleagues-in-introducing-bill-to-permanently-restore-biological-sex-standard-in-title-ix | Blackburn Leads Colleagues in Introducing Bill to Permanently Restore Biological Sex Standard in Title IX | 2026-08-04 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Jim Justice(R-W.Va.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) introduced the Title IX Clarification Act, which would ensure Title IX anti-discrimination requirements tied to federal education funding are based on biological sex and not “sexual orientation or gender identity:” “The Biden administration weaponized Title IX to force women to compete with men in sports and allow men to invade women’s spaces,” said Senator Blackburn. “Thankfully, President Trump restored common sense in Title IX, and now Congress must codify these protections for women into law to prevent future abuse. The Title IX Clarification Act would ensure that common sense, not leftist ideology, governs federal education funding tied to Title IX requirements to protect young women.” “President Trump has taken decisive action through executive orders to protect young women on campuses across the country. Now, we must ensure these protections are codified into federal law,” said Senator Britt. “We saw the Biden-Harris Administration cave to the woke mob and allow Title IX to be abused in ways that permitted biological men to infringe on girls’ sports and spaces. We cannot let that happen again, and this legislation will restore regulatory clarity to ensure it does not.” “I’ve been blessed to spend many years coaching young ladies in West Virginia, and I can tell you this: they work their tails off and earn every opportunity they get. At the end of the day, they deserve a fair shot. That’s exactly what the Title IX Clarification Act is about. It puts common sense back into the law, protects the opportunities Title IX was meant to guarantee, and stands up for our girls and young women. Fighting for our female athletes is a fight I’ll take every single day,” said Senator Justice. “We cannot allow the radical left’s campaign to succeed in undermining … | 1 | 2026-08-05T07:37:37Z | 2026-08-05T07:38:44Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/8/blackburn-statement-on-senate-judiciary-committee-advancing-todd-blanche-nomination-for-u-s-attorney-general | Blackburn Statement on Senate Judiciary Committee Advancing Todd Blanche Nomination for U.S. Attorney General | 2026-08-04 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after voting in the Senate Judiciary Committee to advance President Trump’s nomination of Todd Blanche to serve as U.S. Attorney General: “As Acting Attorney General, Todd Blanche has already proven he will hold fraudsters accountable for stealing billions of taxpayer dollars, crack down on violent crime in cities like Memphis, and restore a one-tiered system of justice after four years of the Biden DOJ’s corruption under Merrick Garland,” said Senator Blackburn. “The American people sent President Trump back to the White House to return the DOJ to its core mission of enforcing the rule of law, and I am confident Todd Blanche will continue to deliver on that mandate once he is confirmed as Attorney General.” RELATED | 1 | 2026-08-05T07:37:37Z | 2026-08-05T07:38:44Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/08/04/icymi-hagerty-joinsmornings-with-maria-on-fox-business-to-discuss-save-america-act-clarity-act-and-arctic-frost-investigation/ | ICYMI—Hagerty JoinsMornings With Maria on Fox Business to Discuss SAVE America Act, Clarity Act and Arctic Frost Investigation | 2026-08-04 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | Washington—Today, United States Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined Mornings With Maria on Fox Business to discuss the week ahead in the Senate, including the SAVE America Act, the Clarity Act and the Arctic Frost Investigation. *Click the photo above or here to watch* Partial Transcript Hagerty on the SAVE America Act: I just got back from Tennessee over the past weekend, and Americans want to see us pass this act. They want election integrity, and this is not a partisan issue. Every American—this is an 80% plus issue—they want to see it get done. I think we’re going to have to find a way to do it. I understand the reluctance of some of my colleagues because this budget reconciliation process opens up an unlimited amendment process where the [Senate Democrats] will have us voting against Santa Claus, against Christmas, against apple pie—you name it. [Senate Republicans] are going to have to lock our arms and stand strong, take the tough votes, and get our way through this. But I think it would be very, very challenging for us to go back to our constituents and tell them that we didn’t give it our very best to get this done. Hagerty on the Arctic Frost Investigation: I want to find out what happened. It’s unbelievable. I’ve been a Verizon customer for decades. What happened was Verizon decided to violate the Constitution. I’m a sitting United States Senator, but because I’m a Republican—I presume—they were more than willing to cooperate with [Former President Joe Biden] and [Special Counsel Jack Smith] in the midst of an unconstitutional search of our records. AT&T blocked it; they wouldn’t do it because they knew it was against the Constitution. Verizon decided to move right ahead with it. Their chief executive officer and their chief legal officer have dodged every question. Even the chief legal officer decided to skip her hearing on this topic. We need to put both of them under oath and ask them some tough questions… Verizon w… | 1 | 2026-08-05T07:37:37Z | 2026-08-05T07:38:44Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/08/03/icymi-hagerty-joins-kudlow-on-fox-business-to-discuss-spain-iran-and-community-reinvestment-act-reforms/ | ICYMI—Hagerty Joins Kudlow on Fox Business to Discuss Spain, Iran and Community Reinvestment Act Reforms | 2026-08-03 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | Washington—On Friday, United States Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined Kudlow on Fox Business to discuss Spain’s immigration crisis, the latest in Iran and the Trump Administration’s proposed reform of the Community Reinvestment Act. *Click the photo above or here to watch* Partial Transcript Hagerty on Spain’s immigration crisis: I think it is precisely what the president is warning against, and it’s a preview of what could happen if the Democratic Socialists of America are able to get in charge. If you think about it, the Socialist Workers Party in Spain, a leftist, socialist organization, is taking control of that country. This is what you get… It’s an invitation to these people to overrun their country. I think all of Europe should be on alarm. Again, this is a preview of what could happen right here in America. We already saw [President Joe Biden] try it before. Thank God [President Donald Trump] came into office and has put a complete stop to this. It’s out of the news right now, but this could happen again. It’s a preview and it’s a wakeup call to all of us, and I think as we head into the midterm elections, to remember what the Democrat socialists can do—it’s happening right now in Europe. Hagerty on Iran: Much to Washington’s shock, President Trump has been very good about not telegraphing his every move. But I’ll say this, [Commander of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) Admiral Brad Cooper] had completed roughly 75 to 80% of the target package that initially was set to deal with Iran. He stepped back from that when we went into negotiations, into the ceasefire to deal with the straight before moves. I think the time has come. Go back, finish the package, finish the job. I think this is what the American public needs to see. As soon as this happens, I’ll tell you this. The polling data that [Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.] and the Democrats are thrilled about right now, because Americans don’t li… | 1 | 2026-08-04T07:35:49Z | 2026-08-04T07:37:27Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/08/03/icymi-hagerty-joinsthe-sunday-briefing-on-fox-news-to-discuss-iran-blanche-confirmation-and-the-save-america-act/ | ICYMI—Hagerty JoinsThe Sunday Briefing on Fox News to Discuss Iran, Blanche Confirmation and the SAVE America Act | 2026-08-03 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | Washington—On Sunday, United States Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined The Sunday Briefing on Fox News to discuss the latest in Iran, Todd Blanche’s pending confirmation and the SAVE America Act. *Click the photo above or here to watch* Partial Transcript Hagerty on Iran: We continue to maintain the strategic advantage and Iran’s strategic capabilities continue to be degraded. If you think about it from a military standpoint, now we have other neighbors in the region joining us, dealing militarily with Iran. That [should be] quite concerning to the Iranian regime. The other aspect of this is the fact that the economic sanctions that [U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent] and his team at Treasury have been imposing are having a dramatic effect on the Iranian economy. The question is, how much more can they take? Their economy is shut off; their economy is shut down. The military componentry has been devastated, and now we have other players in the region joining the United States to deal with Iran in a way that they’ve never seen before. I’m certainly optimistic that President Trump is going to make certain that at the end the goal is accomplished, that is no nuclear capability for Iran. I’d like to see this done sooner than later, I think the rest of America would, too. Hagerty on the Middle East’s Maritime Defense Coalition against Iran: Iran would like to destabilize the entire region because they’d like to control the entire region. And the fact is that neighbors [in the Middle East] are stepping up and realizing that they have a role to play here. They’re going to be the most immediately impacted, and frankly, given Iran’s military attacks on everybody in the neighborhood, that’s become painfully clear. I welcome the fact that these nations are stepping up, that they’re joining us, and I think this is going to be a regional solution to a problem that has been very specific for 47 years. It’s time to bring it to an end, and … | 1 | 2026-08-04T07:35:49Z | 2026-08-04T07:37:27Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/07/31/icymi-hagerty-joins-varney-co-on-fox-business-to-discuss-iran-midterm-elections/ | ICYMI—Hagerty Joins Varney & Co. on Fox Business to Discuss Iran, Midterm Elections | 2026-07-31 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | Washington—On Thursday, United States Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined Varney & Co. on Fox Business to discuss the latest in Iran and the upcoming midterm elections. *Click the photo above or here to watch* Partial Transcript Hagerty on Iran: I think [Commander of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) Admiral Brad Cooper] has done an excellent job of conveying to [President Donald Trump] his options. And if you think about it, we stopped the execution of the target package that Admiral Cooper was executing when we stepped back to negotiate a ceasefire and deal with the Strait of Hormuz. At that point in time, Brad Cooper was probably 75 to 80% of the way through the initial target package. The timeline that he’s talking about, two-and-a-half, three weeks, is consistent with what it would take to complete that package. That’s a package that includes human targets. It’s going to be devastating to the Iranian regime. I think it’s time to step up and do it. I’m entirely in favor of it… [The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)] are the ones that are driving this. They live a different lifestyle than the rest of the military. They actually profit in times of war, and I think there’s going to be a reckoning with the Iranian people over the terrible leadership that has been provided by the IRGC, the terrible decisions that they’ve made. And they continue to make the wrong decision over and over again. It’s the definition of insanity. Hagerty on Senate Democrats’ legislative blockade ahead of midterms: [Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.,] put us through the longest government shutdown in history, shutting down the Department of Homeland Security at a time when we were in major conflict with the major state sponsor of terror in the world. Knowing that the Iranian regime has put people into this country, he was willing to shut down Homeland Security. He just instructed his party to vote against the National Defense Authorization Bill… | 1 | 2026-08-01T07:27:26Z | 2026-08-01T07:28:22Z |
| https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/today-rep-van-epps-celebrates-the-anniversary-of-nasa-s-founding | Today, Rep. Van Epps Celebrates the Anniversary of NASA’s Founding | 2026-07-29 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Matt Van Epps | V000139 | vanepps.house.gov | vanepps | https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Today, Rep. Van Epps released the following message in celebration of NASA’s founding. As a member of the Science, Space, and Technology Committee, Rep. Van Epps is focused on ensuring the United States remains at the forefront of innovation, particularly in space technology. With an abundance of commercial investments in NASA and the space industry, Tennessee is helping lead the space race. Currently, Tennessee has $224.2 million in economic output due to NASA contracts alone. There are 26 Tennessee suppliers that contribute to NASA’s Artemis program, and more Tennessee companies support the Kennedy Space Center. Image Watch Rep. Van Epps’ message by clicking above or here. On July 29th, we celebrate the birthday of NASA, an agency that has embodied one of the most powerful qualities of the American spirit: the belief that there is always something greater ahead. For generations, NASA has reminded us of what is possible when Americans come together with a common purpose. It represents the dreamers who looked up at the night sky and wondered what lay beyond, the engineers who turned impossible ideas into reality, and the astronauts who climbed into rockets knowing they were carrying the hopes and aspirations of an entire nation. When Americans first reached the Moon, we did more than plant a flag. We showed what a free people can accomplish when we refuse to accept the impossible. That moment reflected something deeply woven into the American character. We are a nation of explorers. A nation of builders. A nation that has always looked beyond the horizon and asked, “What’s next?” The story of NASA is the story of American perseverance. It is found in every scientist working late to solve a problem, every student inspired to pursue a career in science and engineering, and every astronaut who looks back at our beautiful planet and sees the incredible nation we are blessed to call home. From the Moon landings to the discoveries of the Hubble Space Telescope, and from exploring Mars to the Artemis program pre… | 1 | 2026-07-30T07:32:48Z | 2026-07-30T07:34:08Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/blackburn-to-newsmax-senate-should-remain-until-save-america-act-passes | Blackburn to Newsmax: Senate Should Remain Until SAVE America Act Passes | 2026-07-29 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) called on the Senate to remain in session until it passes the SAVE America Act during an appearance on Newsmax’s Wake Up America. Last week, Senator Blackburn led her colleagues in taking to the Senate floor to urge the Senate to pass the bill following President Trump’s address to the nation on election integrity. Watch the video Senator Blackburn released on her X account here. Click here to download Senator Blackburn’s interview on Newsmax. Click here to watch the video Senator Blackburn posted on X. Sen. Blackburn to Newsmax: Senate Should Remain Until SAVE America Act Passes Brian Freeman Newsmax Senate Republicans are prepared to remain in Washington as long as necessary to pass the SAVE America Act, backing President Donald Trump's call to delay the chamber's planned summer recess until election integrity legislation reaches his desk, Sen. Marsha Blackburn told Newsmax on Tuesday. The Tennessee Republican said on ?Newsmax's "Wake Up America" that the GOP is willing to work weekends, split the legislation into smaller pieces, or pursue any other legislative strategy necessary to enact the bill, which would require proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote in federal elections. "Whatever it takes, if it is staying here, if it's breaking the bill in pieces, doing pieces one at a time, whatever we need to do to make certain that we pass the SAVE Act is what we need to do," Blackburn said. "We're all in on getting the SAVE Act passed." Her comments came after Trump urged Senate Republicans to remain in session until the legislation is approved, writing on Truth Social that Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., "should not allow the United States Senate to leave town until it passes the SAVE America Act," while also renewing his call to eliminate the legislative filibuster if necessary. Although Thune has indicated there are not enough votes to abolish the filibuster, Blackburn dismissed suggestions that Republicans are wavering… | 1 | 2026-07-30T07:32:48Z | 2026-07-30T07:34:08Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/blackburn-leads-colleagues-in-introducing-legislation-to-keep-biological-men-out-of-the-daughters-of-the-american-revolution | Blackburn Leads Colleagues in Introducing Legislation to Keep Biological Men Out of the Daughters of the American Revolution | 2026-07-28 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.),Mike Lee (R-Utah), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) introduced the Daughters of the American Revolution Membership Integrity Act, which would amend the Daughters of the American Revolution’s (DAR) federal charter by adding a membership eligibility requirement to bar biological men from becoming members. The DAR has made headlines for adding a “non-discrimination” clause that allows biological males to become members. “The Daughters of the American Revolution was founded by women for women, and its founders would be appalled that the organization is now allowing biological males to become members and undermine the legacy of real women who helped build our nation,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Daughters of the American Revolution Membership Integrity Act would amend the DAR’s federal charter to stop the organization from erasing biological reality and ensure it is reserved for the real daughters of the American Revolution.” | 1 | 2026-07-29T07:41:48Z | 2026-07-29T07:42:57Z |
| https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-announces-mobile-office-hours-for-july-and-august | Rep. Van Epps Announces Mobile Office Hours for July and August | 2026-07-24 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Matt Van Epps | V000139 | vanepps.house.gov | vanepps | https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Franklin, TN – Rep. Van Epps’ district team will hold mobile office hours in communities across Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District throughout July and August. If you need assistance with a federal agency, our team will be available to help start a casework request and connect you with the appropriate federal resources. While Congressman Van Epps maintains district offices in Clarksville and Franklin, our team is committed to making constituent services accessible across the entire district. Through mobile office hours, staff members are able to meet Tennesseans closer to where they live and work, ensuring residents across TN-07 have direct access to assistance from their congressional office. If you need help with a federal agency but are unable to attend one of the mobile office hour events listed below, please contact our office at (629) 223-6050 or visit our website here. Rep. Van Epps said, “From Montgomery County to Wayne County and from Benton County to Davidson County, I’ve had the opportunity to meet incredible Tennesseans across our district. One of my top priorities in Congress has been building a team that is responsive, accessible, and committed to serving the people of TN-07. Whether you need help with the Department of Veterans Affairs, the IRS, passport services, or another federal agency, our office is here to help. It would be our honor to serve you.” Please come prepared to fill out a privacy release form, also found on the website here! Though Rep. Van Epps will not be at these mobile office hours, a member of his team will be! You can listen to a message from Rep. Van Epps here. July Wayne County Date: July 27, 2026 Time: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM Location: Wayne County Courthouse, 100 Court Circle, Waynesboro, TN 38485 (3rd Floor Conference Room) Decatur County Date: July 29, 2026 Time: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM Location: Decatur County Chamber of Commerce, Ayers Entrepreneur Center, Conference Room, 443 Virginia Ave. South, Parsons, TN 38363 August Williamson County Date: August … | 1 | 2026-07-25T07:13:44Z | 2026-07-25T07:15:09Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/07/24/icymi-hagerty-joins-fox-friends-on-fox-news-to-discuss-iran-and-the-save-america-act/ | ICYMI—Hagerty Joins Fox & Friends on Fox News to Discuss Iran and the SAVE America Act | 2026-07-24 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | New York—Today, United States Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined Fox & Friends on Fox News to discuss the latest developments in Iran and the SAVE America Act. *Click the photo above or here to watch* Partial Transcript Hagerty on Iran and the Abraham Accords: I applaud [President Donald Trump] for bringing major allies in the region together. Iran is getting further and further isolated by a deal like this. And joining the Abraham Accords has been a long-term goal for President Trump. The fact that he has gotten Jared Kushner involved, his wonderful team, John Raider—that team put together the Abraham Accords at a time when it was desperately needed. I think they should have gotten a Nobel Peace Prize for this. And by bringing more into the fold, particularly [Saudi Arabia], the largest economy [in the Middle East], I think this is a major step forward. We are talking about economy, we are talking about prosperity, and I think this sends a message for the entire region that we are ready to move forward […] We are not talking about enrichment programs at all. The [United Arab Emirates (UAE)], other partners of ours, are able to have a civil nuclear program. They report, they do not hide, they do not obfuscate. But I think this is something that we are going to work through the details on with Saudi Arabia. My sense is that President Trump’s overarching goal is to bring them into an economic relationship that begets prosperity. I think the sooner we get this wrapped up, the sooner it is taken care of, the more the American public will come on board. I think the issue we have right now is the fact that [the conflict is] dragging out. And I don’t fault those that are trying to negotiate trying to bring this together with terms that work because we are going to have to rebuild Iran. But at this point, I think the American public’s sentiment, at least as I read the data, [is that] they just want this over with. And if you think about … | 1 | 2026-07-25T07:13:44Z | 2026-07-25T07:15:09Z |
| https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ogles-introduces-bill-protect-surrogate-mothers-forced-abortions | REP. OGLES INTRODUCES BILL TO PROTECT SURROGATE MOTHERS FROM FORCED ABORTIONS | 2026-07-23 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Andrew Ogles | O000175 | ogles.house.gov | ogles | https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Andy Ogles (TN-05) introduced the Preventing Forced Abortions Act of 2026, legislation prohibiting federal courts from enforcing provisions in surrogacy contracts that require a surrogate mother to obtain an abortion. The bill would also prevent intended parents from withholding agreed-upon compensation when a surrogate mother refuses a request to abort the child she is carrying. “No woman should ever be forced to murder a child because of a provision buried in a contract,” said Congressman Ogles. “The Preventing Forced Abortions Act ensures that federal courts cannot enforce these coercive clauses or allow intended parents to withhold promised compensation when a surrogate mother chooses life,” Congressman Ogles said. Hon. Marilyn Musgrave, Vice President of Government Affairs, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, said: “Women should never be forced or coerced into having an abortion. Yet, recent headlines reveal that this is still a tragic reality women face today. We applaud Rep. Ogles for reintroducing the Preventing Forced Abortions Act to protect women and babies in surrogacy arrangements. Studies have shown that pressure to undergo an abortion is associated with poorer mental health and emotional outcomes for women. Abortion coercion is wrong and this ought to be an area of bipartisan agreement. Carol Tobias, President of National Right to Life, said: “National Right to Life strongly supports Congressman Ogles’ Preventing Forced Abortions Act. No contract should be used as a weapon to coerce a woman into an abortion or treat an unborn child as disposable.” Kelsey Reinhardt, President and CEO of CatholicVote, said: “I want to thank Rep. Ogles for standing up for both women and the unborn. Every abortion treats the woman and child as a means to an end, violating her inherent dignity and exploits the woman for an agenda of death. Too often the abortion compounds injustice: many coerced cases involve domestic abuse, trafficking, economic threats, or authoritarian policies. The… | 1 | 2026-07-24T07:30:11Z | 2026-07-24T07:31:13Z |
| https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-speaks-at-sst-budget-hearing-on-revitalizing-american-scientific-research | Rep. Van Epps Speaks at SST Budget Hearing on Revitalizing American Scientific Research | 2026-07-23 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Matt Van Epps | V000139 | vanepps.house.gov | vanepps | https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C.-Rep. Van Epps (TN-07) participated in a Science, Space, and Technology (SST) Committee hearing titled, “Unleashing the Golden Age of Science: Examining the Priorities of the FY2027 Research and Technology Enterprise.” Watch Rep. Van Epps' statement here. Read Rep. Van Epps’ opening remarks here: “Thank you, Director Kratsios, for being here today. In March 2025, President Trump charted out a clear vision for scientific progress and technological innovation: to position America to maintain leadership in emerging technologies like AI, quantum, and nuclear; to revitalize American scientific research; and to ensure that the growth of science and technology stimulates …economic growth. Director Kratsios and OSTP have delivered by supporting these goals: the National AI Legislative Framework provided clear direction on how Congress should act to spur…on AI innovation that serves Americans, and an executive order signed by the President last month to accelerate U.S. innovation in quantum technologies to strengthen our national security. One year after executive orders on nuclear energy, we are seeing real-world results. The President’s bold goal of three advanced test reactors achieving criticality before the Fourth of July was not only met but exceeded with four reactors achieving criticality. Just yesterday, Director Kratsios published a report establishing a blueprint for renewing American scientific leadership for the 21st century. After the Biden administration floundered to position America for technology leadership and energy dominance, we are seeing tangible results from the Trump administration, with OSTP providing critical support.” Read Rep. Van Epps’ questions here: Rep. Van Epps asked, “ We must maintain the lead across the board when it comes to AI. Microsoft’s AI for Good Lab found that DeepSeek’s free, open-source models have driven AI adoption across the developing world. Recently, the Chinese company, Moonshot, released…a new open-weight model that performs competitively with A… | 1 | 2026-07-24T07:30:11Z | 2026-07-24T07:31:13Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/blackburn-sounds-the-alarm-on-communist-china-s-infiltration-of-american-judiciary | Blackburn Sounds the Alarm on Communist China’s Infiltration of American Judiciary | 2026-07-23 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | “According to the national security organization State Armor, over the course of three decades, ‘ELI’s work has uniformly advanced Chinese strategic and national security interests while undermining American national security . . . and simultaneously pushing America toward dependence upon energy sources dominated by the PRC.’ In 2018, that very same group launched its Climate Judiciary Project ‘in coordination with the [Federal Judicial Center] . . . in response to demand from the judiciary for education about climate science.’ While the stated goal was to provide ‘neutral, objective information to the judiciary,’ it’s clear that ELI’s goal was to ‘make judges more receptive to climate litigation’ and, even more troubling, ‘target’ judges in states ‘where [climate] cases were being brought.’ The substance of CJP’s programming is equally as concerning. According to State Armor’s report, CJP’s materials instruct judges on how to ‘frame’ climate change matters and ‘influence colleagues who may be “opposed to action on climate change.”’ The CJP programming also includes material that has little to do with standard continuing legal education content, including lesson plans on ‘implicit bias’ and ‘Resistance to Change.’ Critically, according to the report, the majority of CJP’s materials were ‘created by scholars who have called for liability for oil and gas companies,’ including a scholar who has labeled the oil and gas industry as ‘diabolical.’” ELI Lesson Plans Steer Judges to Rule in Favor of Far-Left Climate Lobby, Threatening Judicial Independence | 1 | 2026-07-24T07:30:11Z | 2026-07-24T07:31:13Z |
| https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-secures-major-legislative-victories-in-fy27-ndaa-0 | Rep. Van Epps Secures Major Legislative Victories in FY27 NDAA | 2026-07-22 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Matt Van Epps | V000139 | vanepps.house.gov | vanepps | https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. - Rep. Matt Van Epps (TN-07) released the following statement after four of his amendments were included in the House’s version of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). HONOR Gold Star Families Act Amendment Rep. Van Epps stated, “I am proud that core provisions of my HONOR Gold Star Families Act made it into the FY27 NDAA. For the first time in nearly two decades, this legislation updates the military death gratuity by increasing the benefit for survivors from $100,000 to $165,000 and indexing future payments to inflation through a cost-of-living adjustment. This legislation will provide greater financial support to the families of fallen servicemembers who have sacrificed so much.” Read more here. Fort Campbell Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Amendment Rep. Van Epps said, “The fact of the matter is that aging water and wastewater infrastructure has become a growing concern for readiness and quality of life. Much of Fort Campbell’s utility system is more than 60 years old and requires significant maintenance and modernization to reduce the risk of service disruptions. Should a major disruption occur, it could affect everything from mission execution to the health of military families,” he continued. He said, “Fort Campbell isn’t the only aging base. According to a 2024 CBO report, the four services have $50 billion in deferred maintenance on their bases, with the Army and Navy making up 70 percent of the backlog. Yet, despite the scale of the challenge, the Department of War (DOW) lacks a comprehensive assessment that identifies and prioritizes the military's most critical aging utility systems. That’s why I am introducing this amendment today. My amendment directs the DOW to evaluate the condition, costs, and operational impacts of these systems across all military installations. Once that is done, the Department of War will rank the highest-risk projects and provide recommendations for prioritizing future investments.” “This data-driven roadmap for mo… | 1 | 2026-07-23T07:31:02Z | 2026-07-23T07:32:26Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/video-blackburn-blasts-democrats-war-on-ice-following-nyc-incendiary-device-attack | VIDEO: Blackburn Blasts Democrats’ War on ICE Following NYC Incendiary Device Attack | 2026-07-22 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | ‘On Monday, we saw yet another example of what has become disturbingly common.’ ‘Authorities believe the attack was motivated by the suspect’s hatred of Immigration and Customs Enforcement.’ ‘This attack did not come out of nowhere. It follows a months-long campaign by Democrats to demonize ICE.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) delivered remarks on the Senate floor condemning the recent attack outside of a New York immigration court by a suspect who had anti-ICE material on him. In her remarks, Senator Blackburn called out her Democrat colleagues for demonizing federal law enforcement and praised Republicans for standing up for ICE and CBP by passing the Secure America Act. Click here to download Senator Blackburn’s remarks. REMARKS AS PREPARED “On Monday, we saw yet another example of what has become disturbingly common: an act of far-left terrorism. “Outside the Jacob K. Javits Federal Office Building, a man poured gasoline on the entrance, set it ablaze, and tossed fireworks into the raging flames. “Thankfully, law enforcement responded swiftly to apprehend the suspect, who was armed with two axes, a hammer, a machete, and three knives. But not before he injured four innocent people. “Authorities believe the attack was motivated by the suspect’s hatred of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The federal building he targeted is home to New York’s ICE field office and other Department of Homeland Security offices.” “Before the attack, he allegedly pushed a cart with a sign reading, ‘ICE Off Our Streets,’ and made anti-ICE statements. “This attack did not come out of nowhere. It follows a months-long campaign by Democrats to demonize ICE and our brave federal law enforcement officers for simply doing their jobs.” “They’ve likened them to ‘secret police,’ the Nazi Gestapo, the Soviet KGB, and ‘slave patrols.’ They’ve called them a ‘a clear and present threat,’ a ‘reign of terror,’ and ‘nondescript thugs.’ They’ve accused them of ‘mayhem and death,’ “terror and violence… | 1 | 2026-07-24T07:30:11Z | 2026-07-24T07:31:13Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-statement-fy27-appropriations | Harshbarger Statement on FY27 Appropriations | 2026-07-21 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) today released the following statement after voting to pass H.R. 9770, the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2027. The vote comes as Senate Democrats yet again threaten to shut down the government ahead of the September 30 fiscal year-end deadline, just weeks before Election Day. This clean, short-term funding measure keeps the government open through December 4, 2026, taking that leverage off the table and sparing the American people from unnecessary uncertainty, disruption, and political brinkmanship: “After Democrats drove the two longest government shutdowns in American history, they are once again obstructing the constitutional funding process. Senate Democrats are refusing to advance a single FY27 appropriations bill in the upper chamber, and House Democrats have shown today that this isn't only a Senate problem—it's a Democrat problem, top to bottom. “House Republicans have done the work. Every single appropriations bill is out of committee, three have already passed the Floor, and we're acting weeks ahead of the September 30 deadline to keep the government open. Democrats in both chambers have done nothing but obstruct, because a shutdown right before an election is the only leverage they've got left. “While Democrats want to hold federal workers, military families, and Americans relying on SNAP and WIC hostage to score political points, House Republicans are taking proactive steps to reject last-minute governing and shutdown politics before the election. “Tennesseans don't want Washington playing games with a government shutdown, they want us doing our jobs. That's exactly what tonight's vote was about.” BACKGROUND: The legislation extends government funding at current levels while the House continues work on full-year fiscal 2027 appropriations. House Republicans have pushed to fund the government through regular order rather than a last-minute, pork-filled omnibus. All 12 FY27 appropriations bills have been reported out of the House Appropriat… | 1 | 2026-07-22T07:34:13Z | 2026-07-22T07:35:16Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/two-harshbarger-bills-advance-through-energy-and-commerce-committee | Two Harshbarger Bills Advance Through Energy and Commerce Committee | 2026-07-21 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) released the following statements after the House Energy and Commerce Committee advanced two of her bills at today’s full committee markup. Members passed the Nutrition Education and Chronic Disease Prevention in Community Health Centers Act of 2026 and the Affordable Innovation for the Grid Act, sending both bills to the full House for consideration. Nutrition Education and Chronic Disease Prevention in Community Health Centers Act of 2026: “For more than 30 years, I stood behind a pharmacy counter in East Tennessee and watched manageable conditions turn into life-altering ones because nobody caught them early enough,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “I've always believed that the best prescription is the one you never have to write. The MAHA agenda's focus on prevention, addressing the root causes of disease, and empowering Americans to live healthier lives is the right direction for this country, and that’s exactly where this bill will take us. I'm grateful for Secretary Kennedy's leadership on this front, and I'll keep fighting to get this across the finish line.” CLICK HERE to learn more about the Nutrition Education and Chronic Disease Prevention in Community Health Centers Act of 2026. ICYMI: Harshbarger in the Washington Times: In rural America, prevention is the prescription we can’t afford to skip Affordable Innovation for the Grid Act: "Today's markup moves us one step closer to a smarter, more reliable power grid," said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “America shouldn’t have to wait years for new energy resources to come online because of an outdated interconnection process, and I'm glad we're one step closer to fixing that. I want to thank Chairman Guthrie and my colleague Rep. Mullin for their partnership in getting this bill through committee.” CLICK HERE to learn more about the Affordable Innovation for the Grid Act. ### | 1 | 2026-07-22T07:34:13Z | 2026-07-22T07:35:16Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/blackburn-introduces-legislation-to-increase-domestic-production-of-critical-medical-supplies | Blackburn Introduces Legislation to Increase Domestic Production of Critical Medical Supplies | 2026-07-21 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | “America's dependence on China and other foreign nations for critical medical supplies is a national security threat that puts the lives of Americans at risk,” said Senator Blackburn. “The ONSHORE Manufacturing Act would cut red tape with smart tax incentives to bring production home, protect our supply chains, and ensure we never face shortages that endanger patients during a crisis.” BACKGROUND The United States relies heavily on foreign countries, including China, for many of the medicines, medical devices, and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) used by American patients every day. This dependence creates vulnerabilities in the healthcare supply chain and leaves the United States exposed to disruptions caused by public health emergencies, natural disasters, geopolitical conflicts, and foreign export restrictions. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted these risks when shortages of medicines, personal protective equipment, and diagnostic materials disrupted patient care across the country. These challenges demonstrated the need for a stronger domestic manufacturing base for critical medical products. Reliance on foreign supply chains is not only a healthcare issue but also a national security concern. Strengthening domestic manufacturing capacity can help ensure the United States has reliable access to the medicines and medical products needed during emergencies while reducing dependence on foreign competitors. ONSHORE MANUFACTURING ACT The ONSHORE Manufacturing Act would expand domestic manufacturing capacity and improve supply chain resilience products through key provisions, including a: o 10.5% Domestic Manufacturing Production Credit that would help support long-term, U.S.-based production and employment; o 30% Advanced Manufacturing Equipment Credit that would encourage investments in advanced manufacturing equipment used to produce critical medicines, APIs, biologics, medical devices, and medical countermeasures in the U.S.; and o 30% Facility Modernization Credit that would support investment… | 1 | 2026-07-22T07:34:13Z | 2026-07-22T07:35:16Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/video-democrats-block-blackburn-resolution-condemning-judge-eleanor-ross-gross-misconduct | VIDEO: Democrats Block Blackburn Resolution Condemning Judge Eleanor Ross’ Gross Misconduct | 2026-07-21 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | ‘The American people deserve federal judges who uphold the highest standards of integrity… not those who turn their chambers into a venue for extramarital affairs.’ ‘There is no reason any member of this body should object to my resolution today.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Democrats blocked U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn’s (R-Tenn.) effort to pass a resolution condemning Northern District of Georgia Judge Eleanor Ross’ sexual misconduct and subsequent lies to judicial investigators. Excerpts of Senator Blackburn’s remarks are below. Click here to download Senator Blackburn’s remarks. EXCERPTS OF REMARKS “I'm asking that the Senate speak with a unanimous voice in condemning one of the worst acts of judicial misconduct we have seen in years. Judge Eleanor Ross has been a district judge in the Northern District of Georgia for over a decade, and it's clear that she engaged in conduct that falls beneath the dignity of her high office in the federal judiciary.” “Over the course of two years, Judge Ross engaged in a sexual relationship with a high-ranking official of the Atlanta Police Department. This conduct occurred in her judicial chambers during normal business hours, within earshot of her law clerks.” “Not only did this misconduct create the possibility of an appearance of impropriety, an affair like this also exposed Judge Ross to the possibility of extortion and blackmail.” “In addition to this egregious behavior in her chambers, the special committee also found an equally disturbing act of judicial misconduct: making false statements material to the committee's investigation. Judge Ross told the 11th Circuit's chief judge that she, and I quote, ‘never engaged in sexual intercourse in her office nor anywhere else in the courthouse,’ end quote.” “Judge Ross' statements to Chief Judge Pryor were patently false. They were knowingly false. We also know that it took Judge Ross nearly two weeks to retract the false statements.” “The American people deserve federal judges who uphold the highest standards of in… | 1 | 2026-07-22T07:34:13Z | 2026-07-22T07:35:16Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/07/21/hagerty-leads-historic-senate-appropriations-subcommittee-hearing-to-review-the-supreme-courts-budget-request/ | Hagerty Leads Historic Senate Appropriations Subcommittee Hearing to Review the Supreme Court’s Budget Request | 2026-07-21 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | The hearing takes place amid increased security threats against Supreme Court Justices WASHINGTON—On Tuesday, United States Senator Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government (FSGG), led the Subcommittee’s third and final hearing for Fiscal Year 2027. Justices Elena Kagan and Amy Coney Barrett—the first sitting justices to appear before the committee in 24 years—testified in support of the U.S. Supreme Court’s budget request. *Click the photo above or click here to watch* Remarks as prepared for delivery: “Good afternoon. The hearing will come to order. Before we begin, I would like to take a brief moment to remember our late colleague, Senator Lindsey Graham. He was a true American Statesman. What I remember most is that, while he was incredibly serious, he had unparalleled talent in bringing levity to any situation. I think Justice Kagan, it was during your confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, that one of his questions brought genuine laughter to the whole room. We will miss Senator Graham dearly. His family, friends, and staff members remain in my prayers. Turning to the matter at hand, this is the third and final hearing of the Fiscal Year 2027 cycle for the Financial Services and General Government Subcommittee. First, I’d like to welcome our distinguished witnesses, Justice Kagan and Justice Barrett of the United States Supreme Court. It’s been fifteen years since Supreme Court Justices testified before the Senate, so I want to thank you both for being here today. The work of the Supreme Court is of paramount importance, and I look forward to hearing from you about the resources the Court needs to do that work. Unlike federal departments, the Supreme Court is not a creature of Congress, but of the Constitution itself, equal in dignity to the Congress and the President. And unlike the legislative and executive powers, the Founders crafted the judicial power to be independent from the political branches… | 1 | 2026-07-22T07:34:13Z | 2026-07-22T07:35:16Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/07/21/icymi-hagerty-joins-national-report-on-newsmax-to-discuss-iran-and-the-save-america-act/ | ICYMI—Hagerty Joins National Report on Newsmax to Discuss Iran and the SAVE America Act | 2026-07-21 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | Washington—Today, United States Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined National Report on Newsmax to discuss the latest in Iran and the SAVE America Act. *Click the photo above or here to watch* Partial Transcript Hagerty on Iran: [President Donald Trump] has been completely clear that he is not going to allow Iran to have a nuclear weapon or nuclear capacity, so I am not surprised at all that as we get new intelligence, the president is going to proceed against that. With respect to the broader effort, I think the Iranian regime needs to learn that President Trump will not tolerate the behavior that we have seen with Iran… I think President Trump is demonstrating that very clearly, and he is degrading them significantly. He is creating a new set of terms. The next time the negotiations begin, I think the Iranian regime is going to find a very different situation. If you look at the inflation in their own economy, it’s greater than 100%. Their economy is cratering. It is a very difficult situation right now, and President Trump is going to maintain maximum pressure […] Our efforts have been very much focused on depriving the Iranian government of any sort of effort—any sort of capability—to deliver nuclear weapons in that capacity. If you step back and ask yourself, ‘why did we enter this at the time that we did?’ It is because the Iranians were developing ballistic missile capability and drone capability that would have allowed them to essentially porcupine their country, and that meant they would have had all the time in the world to pursue their nuclear ambitions. President Trump saw this. We have exquisite technology to take out their weaponry, but that technology takes longer to develop—it is a math problem at the end of the day. President Trump saw that and he is crushing their capacity to defend any of these assets. They have no ability to control their airways—we do. It is up to us. The targeting package that [Central Command… | 1 | 2026-07-22T07:34:13Z | 2026-07-22T07:35:16Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/fleischmann-awarded-hero-of-main-street | Fleischmann Awarded ‘Hero of Main Street’ | 2026-07-20 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON–– The National Retail Federation has named Representative Chuck Fleischmann as a “Hero of Main Street” for his support of the retail industry through legislation and his leadership in Congress. “The Volunteer State is proud to support millions of retail jobs that strengthen our economy and create opportunities for families across Tennessee. I have always been committed to advancing this vital industry by investing in workforce development and training programs. These efforts have helped Tennesseans secure good jobs, build rewarding careers, and provide for their loved ones. As the retail sector continues to evolve, I will remain dedicated to supporting initiatives that help our workforce thrive and keep Tennessee moving forward,” Fleischmann said. The National Retail Federation stands as the world’s largest retail trade association, championing the people, brands, policies, and ideas that keep retail strong. Most retailers are small businesses, over 98 percent employ fewer than 50 people, making them the backbone of our communities and economy. | 1 | 2026-07-21T07:32:02Z | 2026-07-21T07:33:33Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/video-blackburn-leads-colleagues-in-urging-senate-to-pass-save-america-act-following-president-trump-s-address-to-the-nation | VIDEO: Blackburn Leads Colleagues in Urging Senate to Pass SAVE America Act Following President Trump’s Address to the Nation | 2026-07-20 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) led her Republican colleagues, including Senators Mike Lee (R-Utah), John Husted (R-Ohio), and Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), in urging the Senate to pass the SAVE America Act following President Trump’s address to the nation last week on election integrity: Click here to download Senator Blackburn’s remarks. EXCERPTS OF REMARKS “Having voter ID is something the vast majority of Americans support whether they're Democrats or Republicans or Independents or Libertarians.” “It's incredible that we're on the floor having to make the case for this legislation.” “The legislation that is before us would really accomplish three major objections in securing our elections.” “It would require voters to present an ID to cast a ballot.” “Our legislation would require people to be a U.S. citizen in order to vote in our elections.” “It would require the states to remove non-citizens who have somehow ended up on their voter rolls.” “Every one of them, common sense. There is nothing objectionable about these measures.” “Many Republican states already enforce these safeguards.” “If every state was like Tennessee, there would be no need for the SAVE America Act. But for years, we have seen blue states practically invite fraud into their elections. 14 states, including California, New York, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, do not require any form of ID to vote. Many more states accept ID that is non-photo.” “States that do this have found thousands of individuals.” “There is no other, no other developed nation that leaves their election so vulnerable to fraud and manipulation.” “To defend themselves, Democrats claim that voter fraud is very rare.” “President Trump's Thursday night address on election integrity showed just how much voter fraud we have.” “According to a DHS review of state voter rolls, there are approximately 278,000 non-citizens registered to vote in our elections. The last three presidential elections were decided by fewer… votes. The Pres… | 1 | 2026-07-21T07:32:02Z | 2026-07-21T07:33:33Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/video-blackburn-leads-colleagues-in-urging-senate-to-pass-save-america-act-following-president-trump-s-address-to-the-nation/a96474c0-3908-4a45-94ad-ddf9626fd087 | VIDEO: Blackburn Leads Colleagues in Urging Senate to Pass SAVE America Act Following President Trump’s Address to the Nation | 2026-07-20 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | ‘There is nothing objectionable about these measures.’ ‘If every state was like Tennessee, there would be no need for the SAVE America Act.’ ‘There is no other developed nation that leaves their election so vulnerable to fraud and manipulation.’ WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) led her Republican colleagues, including Senators Mike Lee (R-Utah), John Husted (R-Ohio), and Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), in urging the Senate to pass the SAVE America Act following President Trump’s address to the nation last week on election integrity: Click here to download Senator Blackburn’s remarks. EXCERPTS OF REMARKS “Having voter ID is something the vast majority of Americans support whether they're Democrats or Republicans or Independents or Libertarians.” “It's incredible that we're on the floor having to make the case for this legislation.” “The legislation that is before us would really accomplish three major objections in securing our elections.” “It would require voters to present an ID to cast a ballot.” “Our legislation would require people to be a U.S. citizen in order to vote in our elections.” “It would require the states to remove non-citizens who have somehow ended up on their voter rolls.” “Every one of them, common sense. There is nothing objectionable about these measures.” “Many Republican states already enforce these safeguards.” “If every state was like Tennessee, there would be no need for the SAVE America Act. But for years, we have seen blue states practically invite fraud into their elections. 14 states, including California, New York, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, do not require any form of ID to vote. Many more states accept ID that is non-photo.” “States that do this have found thousands of individuals.” “There is no other, no other developed nation that leaves their election so vulnerable to fraud and manipulation.” “To defend themselves, Democrats claim that voter fraud is very rare.” “President Trump's Thursday night address on election integrity sh… | 1 | 2026-07-22T07:34:13Z | 2026-07-22T07:35:16Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/blackburn-leads-colleagues-in-introducing-bill-to-stop-multi-million-dollar-birth-tourism-industry-following-scotus-ruling-on-birthright-citizenship | Blackburn Leads Colleagues in Introducing Bill to Stop Multi-Million Dollar Birth Tourism Industry Following SCOTUS Ruling on Birthright Citizenship | 2026-07-17 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), and Rick Scott (R-Fla.) introduced a new and improved version of the Ban Birth Tourism Actto eliminate loopholes that foreign nationals exploit to become U.S. citizens following the Supreme Court’s disappointing decision in Trump v. Barbara: “Following the Supreme Court’s decision in Trump v. Barbara, Congress must step up to the plate to protect the integrity of American citizenship,” said Senator Blackburn. “I’m grateful to my Republican colleagues for joining me in reintroducing the Ban Birth Tourism Act to make it crystal clear that any alien seeking to come to our country to engage in birth tourism is both inadmissible and deportable under the Immigration & Nationality Act.” “Birthright citizenship has been exploited for far too long. The Fourteenth Amendment was never intended to reward birth tourism. Congress must close this loophole, and I am proud to join Senator Blackburn in introducing legislation to end this abuse and protect the integrity of American citizenship,” said Senator Budd. “It is a profound blessing to be an American citizen and to inherit the 250-year legacy of freedom and opportunity that has made the United States the greatest country in the world, but U.S. citizenship is not a commodity,” said Senator Cornyn. “By cracking down on birth tourism, a practice often abused and exploited by our adversaries, this legislation ensures our nation’s immigration laws are upheld and American citizenship cannot be bought.” “The Left has spent decades turning our citizenship laws into a giant loophole for anyone willing to hop on a plane, and it's American taxpayers who foot the bill for their reckless open-borders agenda," said Senator Lummis. "Birth tourism has become a multimillion-dollar industry catering to wealthy foreign nationals who exploit our laws to buy their children an American passport and a right to vote in America… | 1 | 2026-07-21T07:32:02Z | 2026-07-21T07:33:33Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-helps-get-hawkins-countys-words-wheels-bookmobile-back-road | Harshbarger Helps Get Hawkins County's Words on Wheels Bookmobile Back on the Road | 2026-07-16 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Rogersville, TN — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) this week helped deliver a donation of children's books to Hawkins County Schools through the U.S. Library of Congress Surplus Books Program, timed to coincide with the return of the county's “Words on Wheels” bookmobile, which had been out of service for several months due to engine trouble. “It is always a joy to help put more books in the hands of East Tennessee kids, and there's no better time than right as Words on Wheels gets back on the road,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “I'm grateful to the Library of Congress and Joe Mahar for making these donations possible, and to Hawkins County's vehicle maintenance crew for their hard work getting this bookmobile running again. Programs like Words on Wheels keep kids reading all summer long, and I'm proud my office could play a small part in that.” “Congresswoman Harshbarger has been very generous with her willingness to contribute books from the Library of Congress surplus Book Program,” said Erika Phillips, Hawkins County Schools Health Coordinator. The Words on Wheels bookmobile—a retired school bus retrofitted in 2022 to serve as a mobile library—had been sidelined after its engine failed following hundreds of thousands of miles of use. Hawkins County Schools' maintenance staff sourced and installed a remanufactured engine using leftover funds from last year's operating budget, avoiding the need for a budget amendment, according to Director of Schools Matt Hixson. The books were delivered to the school system on Wednesday, July 15, and loaded directly onto the bookmobile ahead of upcoming back-to-school events. While Congresswoman Harshbarger was in Washington, D.C. for votes and unable to attend the delivery in person, her son, state Sen. Bobby Harshbarger, stood in on her behalf. The Words on Wheels program will be back in service for back-to-school events beginning later this month. ICYMI in The Rogersville Review:Words on Wheels is back, with a little help ### | 1 | 2026-07-17T07:15:58Z | 2026-07-17T07:17:05Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-introduces-legislation-hold-insurance-companies-accountable-sex | Harshbarger Introduces Legislation to Hold Insurance Companies Accountable for Sex-Rejecting Procedure Harms | 2026-07-16 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Image Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) today introduced the Treatment and Restoration Uniformity and Transparency in Health Coverage (TRUTH in Coverage) Act, legislation requiring health insurance plans that cover sex-rejecting procedures to also cover restorative care for patients who suffer complications, adverse outcomes, or seek to restore healthy bodily function. Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. “It's outrageous that a health plan can cover sex-rejecting procedures but refuse to cover the restorative care patients need to address the harm they cause. That's not a fair deal for patients who want to restore healthy bodily function,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “Patients should never be abandoned after undergoing life-altering, harmful medical interventions once reality sets in. As a pharmacist, I've seen insurance companies find every excuse in the book to avoid paying for the care patients actually need. My TRUTH in Coverage Act restores fairness, promotes transparency, and ensures patients aren't left paying the price for care their insurance should cover.” “As physicians, we take an oath to first do no harm. Unfortunately, too many Americans have undergone irreversible gender transition procedures only to be left with life-changing complications and nowhere to turn,” said Senator Roger Marshall. “Insurance companies have been more than willing to profit by covering these procedures, but when patients need care to treat complications and restore healthy human function, they're often left on their own. That's wrong. Patients deserve transparency before making life-altering medical decisions, and insurance companies should be consistent in their coverage when those decisions result in lifelong complications.” Across the country, many private health insurance companies have profited handsomely by covering sex-rejecting procedures that aim to alter a person’s biological and anatomical characteristics. Yet patients who later experien… | 1 | 2026-07-17T07:15:58Z | 2026-07-17T07:17:05Z |
| https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-burchett-introduces-bill-allow-president-issue-cyber-letters | Congressman Burchett Introduces Bill to Allow to President to Issue Cyber Letters of Marque and Reprisal | 2026-07-15 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Tim Burchett | B001309 | burchett.house.gov | burchett | https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. (07/15/2026) -- Today, Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02) introduced the Cyber Letters of Marque and Reprisal Act in the U.S. House of Representatives. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Senate version of this legislation. Cybercrime poses a persistent and evolving threat to the United States, targeting individuals, businesses, and government institutions. Everything from financial scams to terrorist plots are facilitated through a vast cyberspace that our government agencies are tasked with protecting. The Cyber Letters of Marque and Reprisal Act authorizes the President to commission private contractors and entities for the purpose of conducting limited cyberspace operations. Deputizing American patriots will bolster our ability to protect the U.S. against cyber criminals. “Widespread cybercrime represents an existential threat to our national security,” said Congressman Burchett. “Allowing private operators to aid the federal government in combatting these crimes will strengthen our ability to defend the United States against terrorism. I am proud to partner with Senator Lee again to protect Americans. He continues to be a strong advocate for cyber security in Congress” ### | 1 | 2026-07-16T07:21:44Z | 2026-07-16T07:23:13Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-supports-fy27-funding-strengthen-national-security-and-counter | Harshbarger Supports FY27 Funding to Strengthen National Security and Counter Adversaries | 2026-07-15 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) today voted to advance the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2027, legislation that delivers on President Trump's America First agenda by cutting waste, countering adversaries such as the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), and ending the Biden-era woke spending spree. “An America First foreign policy means standing up for our own interests, not writing blank checks to countries and organizations that don't have our back. This bill delivers on that promise by realigning our foreign policy around the safety, strength, and prosperity of the United States, eliminating wasteful spending, ending woke programs that have no business representing American taxpayers abroad, and holding Communist China accountable at every turn. I'm proud to stand with President Trump and deliver on the America First agenda he promised the American people,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. KEY PROVISIONS: Counters the CCP by requiring opposition to multilateral development bank lending for the PRC and prohibiting funds that would help countries repay debt owed to Communist China. Takes on the fentanyl crisis by supporting the bureau of International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) to counter the flow of illicit drugs into the United States. Protects life and American values, maintaining long-standing pro-life protections including the Helms and Kemp-Kasten amendments, prohibiting funds for the U.N. Population Fund (UNFPA), and eliminating spending on DEI, gender ideology, and climate programs in foreign assistance. Prohibits funding for DEI initiatives, radical gender ideology, climate mandates, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and other programs inconsistent with President Trump's America First agenda. Holds foreign governments and bad actors accountable for persecuting people of faith, including by restrict… | 1 | 2026-07-16T07:21:44Z | 2026-07-16T07:23:13Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/video-blackburn-scorches-durbin-for-grandstanding-on-epstein-files-after-he-previously-blocked-subpoena-requests | VIDEO: Blackburn Scorches Durbin for Grandstanding on Epstein Files After He Previously Blocked Subpoena Requests | 2026-07-15 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | “When Ranking Member Durbin was Chairman in the last Congress, I tried repeatedly to subpoena the Epstein files so that we could get those banking records and those flight logs.” “Repeatedly, that was blocked.” “So, the Democrats at that point didn’t want to know what was in the Epstein files until they lost the majority, and then they were hell bent to get that.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today during U.S. Attorney General Nominee Todd Blanche’s confirmation hearing, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) slammed Senate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) for pretending to care about the Epstein files after he previously blocked Senator Blackburn’s requests to subpoena the Epstein flight logs as Chairman of the Committee. Senator Blackburn spoke with Acting Attorney General Blanche about the tremendous success of the Memphis Safe Task Force and the need to pass her Federal Carjacking Enforcement Act, her Ban Birth Tourism Act, and her Fraud Accountability Act to support his work on these issues at the U.S. Department of Justice. Click here to download Senator Blackburn’s remarks. RELATED Blackburn Schools Durbin After He Lies About Blocking Her Requests for Epstein Flight Logs | 1 | 2026-07-16T07:21:44Z | 2026-07-16T07:23:13Z |
| https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-david-kustoffs-rural-patient-monitoring-access-act-advances-ways | Congressman David Kustoff's Rural Patient Monitoring Access Act Advances Ways & Means Committee | 2026-07-15 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | David Kustoff | K000392 | kustoff.house.gov | kustoff | https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Ways and Means Committee passed Congressman David Kustoff’s (R-TN-08) Rural Patient Monitoring (RPM) Access Act, H.R. 3108, with bipartisan support. Introduced by Reps. David Kustoff, Donald Davis (D-NC-01), Troy Balderson (R-OH-12), and Mark Pocan (D-WI-02) in April 2025, this bill enables Medicare beneficiaries in rural and underserved communities to gain access to high-quality remote physiologic monitoring services. “Today’s committee passage brings us one step closer to helping more Medicare patients receive the care they need closer to home,” said Congressman David Kustoff. “The RPM Access Act will help more doctors and nurses monitor patients remotely, allowing them to manage complex chronic conditions in real time. I appreciate my colleagues’ support as we work to expand access to high-quality health care in rural West Tennessee and across the country.” “Technological advancement has created new opportunities to deliver better health care, but those opportunities mean little if patients cannot access them,”said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08). “Remote patient monitoring gives physicians valuable insight into their patients’ health while allowing individuals to better manage chronic conditions from home. Unfortunately, rural communities that need these tools the most continue to face barriers that limit access, and as a result have a 33% lower rate of use of remote monitoring. Representative Kustoff’s Rural Patient Monitoring Access Act ensures Medicare beneficiaries in rural and underserved communities can benefit from innovative care models that improve health outcomes and strengthen access to care.” Background: Remote physiologic monitoring is the use of digital technologies to collect health data from patients in one location and electronically transmit that information securely to providers in a different location. Medicare patients living in rural areas face higher rates of heart failure, hypertension, and diabetes compared to patients in urban areas. H… | 1 | 2026-07-25T07:13:44Z | 2026-07-25T07:15:09Z |
| https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/immediate-release-congressman-burchett-introduces-bill-improve-snap | For Immediate Release: Congressman Burchett Introduces Bill to Improve SNAP Trafficking Data | 2026-07-14 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Tim Burchett | B001309 | burchett.house.gov | burchett | https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Low-income families rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for vital access to food security. SNAP trafficking occurs when benefits are illegally exchanged for cash or non-eligible goods. The Stop Retail Food Store SNAP Trafficking Act improves the collection of SNAP trafficking data to enable better oversight of potential abuse across the country. Additionally, this legislation strengthens enforcement by increasing penalties on malicious actors from $100,000 to $250,000. “SNAP has become notorious for being plagued with fraud and abuse,” said Rep. Burchett. “My bill will empower the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct better oversight to ensure that your taxpayer money is being used to serve the least amongst us, not fraudsters.” | 1 | 2026-07-15T07:12:08Z | 2026-07-15T07:13:45Z |
| https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-david-kustoff-celebrates-americas-250th-birthday-honoring-west | Congressman David Kustoff Celebrates America’s 250th Birthday by Honoring West Tennessee’s Finest Across TN-08 | 2026-07-14 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | David Kustoff | K000392 | kustoff.house.gov | kustoff | https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | MEMPHIS, TN — Last week, Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN-08) toured across Tennessee’s 8th Congressional District to present flags flown over the U.S. Capitol to West Tennesseans whose service and hard work have helped shape America’s story for 250 years.. “America’s 250th birthday is an opportunity to honor the people who keep our country moving forward,”said Congressman Kustoff. “Here in West Tennessee, that spirit is alive in the men and women who serve their neighbors and strengthen our communities. It was an honor to recognize West Tennessee’s finest and present them with flags flown over the U.S. Capitol.” As part of the tour, Congressman Kustoff honored Major Billy Gene Key, an Army Reserve servicemember who was injured during a drone strike while deployed to Kuwait; and Larry Marshall, a U.S. Army veteran who received a flag in honor of his father, Phillip G. Marshall. The tour included stops with local businesses, farms, first responders, educators, law enforcement, and community organizations across TN-08, where Congressman Kustoff presented flags flown over the U.S. Capitol, including: Shelby County - Ducks Unlimited: Met with Ducks Unlimited leadership to discuss habitat conservation and recognize the organization’s work protecting wetlands and waterfowl habitat. - Bartlett Fire Station 1: Thanked Bartlett firefighters for their service to the Bartlett community. - Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency: Joined TWRA officers on the Mississippi River and recognized their work protecting Tennessee’s waterways. - Agricenter International: Met with agricultural leaders and toured the Helena research facility at Agricenter International. - Dinstuhl’s Chocolate Factory: Toured the historic Memphis business and recognized its longtime contributions to the Mid-South. Fayette County - Rhea Farm: Visited with farm owner Scott Rhea to discuss the Farm Bill, rising input costs, and West Tennessee agriculture. - Fayette County Sheriff’s Office: Met with Sheriff Bobby Riles and deputies to thank them for t… | 1 | 2026-07-15T07:12:08Z | 2026-07-15T07:13:45Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/07/14/icymi-hagerty-joinsmornings-with-maria-on-fox-business-to-discuss-clarity-the-save-act-reconciliation-3-0-and-lindsey-grahams-legacy/ | ICYMI—Hagerty Joins Mornings with Maria on Fox Business to Discuss CLARITY, the SAVE Act, Reconciliation 3.0 and Lindsey Graham’s Legacy | 2026-07-14 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | Washington—Today, United States Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined Mornings with Maria on Fox Business to honor the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-SC, and to discuss the CLARITY Act, the SAVE America Act and Reconciliation 3.0. *Click the photo above or here to watch* Partial Transcript Hagerty on Lindsey Graham’s passing: There is a pall over all of D.C. Frankly, over much of the world. Lindsey was very well traveled as a legislator and very well liked. We will all dearly miss him. He played a critical role in the Senate. He always brought levity to everything that he did… I remember him walking into an important meeting with members of the House of Representatives, and Lindsey announced, “I am from the United States Senate, and I’m here to help.” It just broke the room, it broke the ice. And he had a way of piercing even the most tense situation with a little bit of levity. He always also was very clear in his goals. You might not always agree with his goals, but Lindsey always had a plan to get them accomplished. And I think he is resting better—God bless him—knowing that he accomplished so much, particularly with the situation in Ukraine right now. His breakthrough efforts that just occurred with Russian sanctions, I think will make a big difference in terms of bringing peace to that area that he’s worked so hard at […] Lindsey was chair of the [Senate Budget Committee] and we’ve made great progress on the Reconciliation 3.0 package. We need that to get critical aspects of legislation done. We are at a point in the political environment right now where it is difficult to get any cooperation from the Democrats and getting the SAVE America Act passed, which is so important to us, many elements of that can be done through Reconciliation 3.0. There are a number of other impacts to the economy, to the housing market: indexing capital gains on housing, the budget for the Defense Department, and a number of other matters that we do nee… | 1 | 2026-07-15T07:12:08Z | 2026-07-15T07:13:45Z |
| https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-rep-van-epps-major-non-nato-ally-terror-threat-assessment-act | House Passes Rep. Van Epps’ Major Non-NATO Ally Terror Threat Assessment Act | 2026-07-13 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Matt Van Epps | V000139 | vanepps.house.gov | vanepps | https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C.- Today, the House of Representatives passed Rep. Van Epps’ (TN07) Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA)Terror Threat Assessment Act. Upon passage of the bill, Rep. Van Epps stated, “I am grateful my Major Non-NATO Ally Terror Threat Assessment Act passed the House of Representatives today. When the United States designates a nation as a Major non-NATO ally, it's a significant move. Giving a country MNNA status is not merely symbolic; it comes with practical benefits, but also risks. This legislation strengthens coordination between the Department of Homeland Security and Congress to better assess and support MNNA partners as they confront terrorist threats within their own borders. This will ensure Congress has the information it needs to provide effective oversight as a partner with this administration.” Watch or read Rep. Van Epps’ remarks on the House Floor below Image “Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bill, H.R. 8168, the Major Non-Nato Ally Terror Threat Assessment Act. When the United States designates a nation as a Major non-NATO ally, it comes with security cooperation and possible trade deals for defense equipment. This is an important designation that our nation does not grant lightly. However, we cannot ignore the fact that foreign terrorist organizations continue to operate in or around some MNNA countries, creating threats that could have serious consequences for U.S. national security. For that reason, it's critical for Congress to have a full picture of the terrorist organizations that may be operating within our partner nations. And that’s why I introduced this legislation. My bill strengthens coordination between the Department of Homeland Security and Congress to better assess and support MNNA partners as they confront threats within their own borders. It requires the department to provide Congress with a comprehensive assessment identifying foreign terrorist organizations operating within MNNA countries, as well as each partner’s capacity to counter those threats. These… | 1 | 2026-07-14T07:08:55Z | 2026-07-14T07:10:52Z |
| https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-announces-2026-service-academy-day | Rep. Van Epps Announces 2026 Service Academy Day | 2026-07-13 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Matt Van Epps | V000139 | vanepps.house.gov | vanepps | https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Franklin, Tennessee - Rep. Matt Van Epps will host a Service Academy Day on Saturday, August 8, 2026, to provide students and families with information about the nation's prestigious U.S. Service Academies and Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) opportunities. Invited to attend the event are representatives from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and ROTC programs to answer questions about admissions, nominations, scholarships, and military service. Rep. Van Epps said, “My time at West Point shaped the leader I am today. Our service academies challenge young men and women to embrace duty, honor, and selfless service while preparing them to lead in uniform and beyond. Whether you're interested in attending a service academy or pursuing an ROTC scholarship, I encourage students and their families to join us to learn more about these life-changing opportunities to serve our country.” Service Academy Day Information: Date: Saturday, August 8, 2026 Doors Open: 10:00 a.m. Program: 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Location: Franklin High School, 810 Hillsboro Road, Franklin, TN 37064 Students, parents, guidance counselors, and anyone interested in learning more about military service and academy admissions are encouraged to attend. Please RSVP for the Service Academy Day here. For more information about the nomination process, visit Rep. Van Epps’ Service Academy FAQ page here, or you can call his Franklin District office at (629) 223-6050. To request a military service academy nomination from our office, please complete the form here. The deadline to apply is Thursday, October 30th, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. For additional information, please contact Matthew Siciliano at matthew.siciliano@mail.house.gov. | 1 | 2026-07-14T07:08:55Z | 2026-07-14T07:10:52Z |
| https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/2026/07/13/icymi-hagerty-joins-kudlow-on-fox-business-to-discuss-iran-housing-and-reconciliation-3-0/ | ICYMI—Hagerty Joins Kudlow on Fox Business to Discuss Iran, Housing and Reconciliation 3.0 | 2026-07-13 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Bill Hagerty | H000601 | www.hagerty.senate.gov | hagerty | https://www.hagerty.senate.gov/press-releases/ | scraper | Washington—On Friday, United States Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., a member of the Senate Foreign Relations, Appropriations, and Banking Committees, joined Kudlow on Fox Business to discuss Iran, housing and Reconciliation 3.0. *Click the photo above or here to watch* Partial Transcript Hagerty on Iran: [Commander of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) Admiral Brad Cooper], is in charge of the [Strait of Hormuz]. It’s the United States of America that is driving the behavior [in Iran]. And what we have is increasing propaganda coming from the Iranian regime. They’re great at propaganda, they’re great at negotiations, but in terms of delivery—not so much. And their economy is in the tank. You see what we’ve done now: the ceasefire is over, [U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent] stepping back in, removing Iran’s temporary license to ship—that’s gone. Sanctions are being reimposed, economic pressure [is] back on, President Trump has hit [Iran] very hard. I think they’re realizing that the old playbook— the one they used with [President Barack Obama], the one they used with [President Joe Biden]—will not work with this administration […] I think that the memorandum of understanding is on life support, at best. [The United States has] reimposed sanctions. We are back at a point of negotiating from a position of strength, letting the Iranians know how it is going to be. We tried to allow them to behave like a normal country; it seems to be beyond them to do that. So, we are moving to plan B. […] We had completed about 75-80% of [target packages] before we went into the ceasefire. There is still a considerable amount of targeting that remains. Those targets are sensitive targets… The pace at which Brad Cooper undertakes this is the pace at which the President directs him to do so, I think is certainly something that was within the realm of the White House to make that decision, but we are moving back in that direction again. Hagerty on housing and affordability: Why should the consumer, why should the everyday… | 1 | 2026-07-14T07:08:55Z | 2026-07-14T07:10:52Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-introduces-bill-refocus-nuclear-safety-reviews-advanced-reactors | Harshbarger Introduces Bill to Refocus Nuclear Safety Reviews on Advanced Reactors | 2026-07-09 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | “As the next generation of nuclear technology approaches rapid deployment at scale, it is critical that our nation’s nuclear licensing process does not mistake procedure for safety,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “Every application must complete NRC’s full safety review. My bill ensures ACRS’ independent secondary review is concentrated where it counts—with novel, safety-significant issues—and codifies provisions of President Trump's Executive Order. We cannot commit to protecting Americans if our top nuclear safety experts spend their time duplicating NRC reviews instead of providing meaningful oversight on reactor designs that demand closer scrutiny. We need to get this right so safety is never compromised, and we can get advanced reactors built here at home instead of ceding that ground to Communist China.” Importantly, the bill would codify provisions of President Trump's Executive Order 14300 directing ACRS to focus its reviews on issues that are "truly novel and noteworthy." | 1 | 2026-07-10T08:20:04Z | 2026-07-10T08:21:18Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/photo-blackburn-joins-secretary-bessent-tennessee-elected-officials-for-unveiling-of-donald-j-trump-bridge-on-i-40-in-east-tennessee | PHOTO: Blackburn Joins Secretary Bessent, Tennessee Elected Officials for Unveiling of Donald J. Trump Bridge on I-40 in East Tennessee | 2026-07-09 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | “Hundreds of thousands of people use our corridor each and every day, and the Donald J. Trump Bridge will help ensure our infrastructure meets the needs of East Tennesseans and keeps Americans moving,” said Senator Blackburn. “Following the devastating damage caused by Hurricane Helene less than two years ago, this project is a testament to the incredible progress East Tennessee communities have made to rebuild stronger than ever. I am grateful to President Trump, Secretary Bessent, and the Tennessee Department of Transportation for strengthening this crucial artery of our nation’s transportation system.” Click here to download this photo. | 1 | 2026-07-10T08:20:04Z | 2026-07-10T08:21:18Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/blackburn-smith-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-prevent-veteran-suicide-by-victims-of-military-sexual-trauma | Blackburn, Smith Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Veteran Suicide by Victims of Military Sexual Trauma | 2026-07-08 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) introduced the Improving Personal Risk Assessments to Prevent Suicide Act to help save veterans’ lives by requiring a federal study to examine the relationship between service members and veterans’ experiences of military sexual trauma (MST) and suicide risk: “It is absolutely unacceptable that veterans are 50% more likely to die by suicide than the civilian population, and we must do everything in our power to protect and care for those who have risked their lives for this country,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Improving Personal Risk Assessments to Prevent Suicide Act is an important step in saving service members’ lives and supporting them as they heal from unimaginable trauma.” “It is our solemn duty to provide the highest quality care for those who serve our country,” said Senator Smith. “That includes making sure servicemembers who endured military sexual trauma have access to the best clinical care and suicide prevention tools available as they work to heal. I’m proud to introduce this bill to incorporate what we know about the relationship between experiencing military sexual trauma and the risk of suicide into clinical practice, improving the care that helps save lives.” BACKGROUND MST refers to the sexual assault or threatening sexual harassment service members may experience during service. Many service members choose not to report MST until after their service because they fear retaliation or threats from their superiors. Veterans are around 50% more likely to die by suicide than civilians, and the link between service members who experienced MST and higher risk of suicide is well-established, making this bill essential to overall veteran suicide prevention efforts. The Improving Personal Risk Assessments to Prevent Suicide Act would require the U.S. Department of War and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to publish a study on the links between MST, intimate partner violence, and the risk of suicide. The bill would als… | 1 | 2026-07-10T08:20:04Z | 2026-07-10T08:21:18Z |
| https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-announces-applications-for-service-academy-nominations-are-open | Rep. Van Epps Announces Applications for Service Academy Nominations are Open | 2026-07-07 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Matt Van Epps | V000139 | vanepps.house.gov | vanepps | https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C.- Rep. Van Epps is honored to announce that applications for Service Academy nominations are now open. The honor of attending a service academy comes with the obligation and commitment to serve in the military for a minimum of five years upon graduation. Members of Congress may nominate candidates for appointment to four of the five U.S. service academies: U.S. Military Academy (USMA), West Point, NY; the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA), Annapolis, MD; the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA), Colorado Springs, CO; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA), Kings Point, NY. The fifth service academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA), New London, CT, does not require a congressional nomination for appointment. Rep. Van Epps with U.S. Naval Academy nominees Rep. Van Epps said, “As a proud graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, I understand the hard work and determination needed to apply and attend the service academies. Although it is no easy task, my time at West Point is one of my greatest accomplishments, and it truly prepared me to understand the fight for freedom. I wish each applicant the best of luck throughout this process.” The deadline to apply is Thursday, October 30th, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. For more information about the nomination process, visit Rep. Van Epps’ Service Academy FAQ page here, or you can call his Franklin District office at (629) 223-6050. | 1 | 2026-07-08T07:27:19Z | 2026-07-08T07:28:28Z |
| https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-statement-one-year-anniversary-working-families-tax-cuts | Harshbarger Statement on One-Year Anniversary of the Working Families Tax Cuts | 2026-07-04 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Diana Harshbarger | H001086 | harshbarger.house.gov | harshbarger | https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) today released the following statement celebrating the one-year anniversary of the Working Families Tax Cuts, the historic tax relief law President Trump signed on July 4, 2025: “As America turns 250, the Working Families Tax Cuts are keeping the promise of 1776,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “Our Founding Fathers fought a revolution against taxation without representation because they believed Americans deserved a government that respected their freedoms and the fruits of their labor. One year after this landmark law took effect, East Tennesseans are seeing what that promise looks like in action. I was proud to help deliver meaningful tax relief for hardworking families, seniors, and small business owners, allowing them to keep more of what they earn and invest in their futures. As we commemorate our nation’s 250th birthday, there's no better way to honor our founding principles than by protecting the freedom to earn, save, and build a better life.” The Working Families Tax Cuts made permanent the lower tax rates from President Trump's 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, preventing what would have been the largest tax increase in American history. According to a U.S. Department of the Treasury analysis, in its first year, American families and workers claimed $82 billion in individual tax relief under the Working Families Tax Cuts through the April filing deadline. The analysis found that 97% of filers received a tax cut, with 96% of those earning under $200,000 and nearly 70% earning less than $100,000. CLICK HERE to learn more about the Working Families Tax Cuts. | 1 | 2026-07-05T07:55:27Z | 2026-07-05T07:56:42Z |
| https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2026/7/blackburn-celebrates-250-years-of-america | Blackburn Celebrates 250 Years of America | 2026-07-04 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | TN | Marsha Blackburn | B001243 | www.blackburn.senate.gov | blackburn | https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0 | scraper | “As we mark the 250th celebration of our nation’s independence, it’s important to remember that we’ve gotten here as a country because we believe in faith, family, freedom, hope, and opportunity,” said Senator Blackburn. “These values have carried us through challenges that seemed insurmountable, and they are the only thing that will ensure our nation endures another 250 years. This is a time for Americans across the country to unite behind these shared values and celebrate the blessing of freedom. From the Blackburn family to yours, happy Independence Day.” Click here to download Senator Blackburn’s Fourth of July video. | 1 | 2026-07-07T08:20:12Z | 2026-07-07T08:22:09Z |
| https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-van-epps-introduces-the-declaration-of-independence-reaffirmation-act | Rep. Van Epps Introduces the Declaration of Independence Reaffirmation Act | 2026-07-02 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | House | TN | Matt Van Epps | V000139 | vanepps.house.gov | vanepps | https://vanepps.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Read the exclusive from Joseph Buff at the Daily Signal here. Image WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Rep. Van Epps (TN-07) introduced the Declaration of Independence Reaffirmation Act of 2026 in honor of its 250th anniversary. This legislation passes a recognition of our nation’s foremost Founding document into law. Senator Eric Schmitt of Missouri introduced this legislation in the Senate, and it passed by unanimous consent. Rep. Van Epps said, “On July 4, 1776, 56 of our Founding Fathers pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor upon signing the Declaration of Independence. They knew that this action would label them as traitors in the eyes of Great Britain, but they believed it was worth the sacrifice. And while many of these brave men did indeed sacrifice their fortunes and lives for this country, I think we can all agree that they not only kept their sacred honor, but greatly added to it. In fact, it is our nation’s privilege to honor them on the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.” He continued, “The Declaration of Independence isn’t just a historical document; it lays out the fundamental liberties and constitutional principles that our nation was built upon. If we are a city on a hill, it's because the principles of the Declaration set us there in the first place. These principles include the idea that our rights and liberties come from God—not government. It was upon this principle that our Founders set out to prove that a government can be created through reason and choice instead of mere accident and force. Upon this foundation, they built a Republic, and it is our great privilege to work to “keep it.” That is why, on the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, I have chosen, along with my colleagues, to introduce a recognition of this great document into law. This is a fitting way to honor this Great Experiment.” Senator Schmitt said, “On July 4, 1776, fifty-six men crossed a line from which there was no retreat. These men knew the king they defied. They … | 1 | 2026-07-03T08:00:00Z | 2026-07-03T08:01:30Z |
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]);