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
61 rows where party = "Republican", state = "TN" and year = 2012 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://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-named-house-committee-appropriations | Chuck Fleischmann named to the House Committee on Appropriations | 2012-11-29 | 2012 | 2012-11 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann made the following statement after learning that he had been named to the House Committee on Appropriations. “I am pleased to be joining the Appropriations Committee, which does critical work ensuring that every tax dollar coming from hardworking Americans is spent wisely. With our national debt growing larger and larger, it is now more important than ever that we exercise strong fiscal discipline and work to cut unnecessary spending,” Fleischmann said. “In the last two years, Chairman Rogers has done incredible work at reducing spending, and I look forward to continuing the task of getting our nation’s discretionary spending back on track, and rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse of taxpayer dollars.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:46Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-wishes-tennesseans-happy-thanksgiving | Chuck Fleischmann wishes Tennesseans a Happy Thanksgiving | 2012-11-21 | 2012 | 2012-11 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | CHATTANOOGA−Congressman Chuck Fleischmann made the following statement to commemorate Thanksgiving. “Although our nation, our communities, and our families face many struggles, we have so much to be thankful for. For me, Thanksgiving is about reflection. It is about expressing our gratitude for the gifts that God has given, and enjoying the company of close family and friends. “While we face many challenges, America remains the greatest and freest nation on earth, a blessing which we should never take for granted. This Thanksgiving, I hope everyone will have a wonderful time in the company of loved ones and close friends. Let us not forget those who serve us in uniform. Their sacrifices ensure our freedom, and we pray for their safe return.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:46Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=760E4F24-BAFB-43B8-B2EE-4E3EB0BDD9FD | DesJarlais and Colleagues Seek Answers to Terrorist Attack in Benghazi | 2012-11-09 | 2012 | 2012-11 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | Representative Scott DesJarlais, M.D. (TN-04) sent a letter to President Barack Obama and U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton demanding answers to questions regarding the events leading up to and following the September 11, 2012, terrorist attack on the U.S. compound in Benghazi. The letter, which was signed by 53 members of the House, asks the following: · Why did administration officials deny repeated requests for stronger security measures from U.S. personnel on the ground in Libya, especially in light of the escalating violence leading up to the September 11 attack? · Why did the administration withdraw elite Special Forces units from the Benghazi compound and seek to replace them with poorly paid local Libyan contractors, even after the compound had been bombed twice? · Why did the administration pursue what U.S. personnel on the ground described as a “cookie cutter” approach to security in Libya and impose an “artificial time table” towards “normalization” that ignored the dangerous facts on the ground? “The Obama administration’s justification for the inadequate level of security leading up to the terrorist attack on our consulate has been extremely unclear,” said Representative DesJarlais. “ I think that we can all agree that the American people deserve reassurance that the government did everything in its power to protect our people working in Libya.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:46Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=CC3F8C84-1241-44B9-BD8E-24BC35C5298B | DesJarlais and Oversight Colleagues Demand More Detailed, Comprehensive Answers from IRS and Treasury | 2012-10-23 | 2012 | 2012-10 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | Representative Scott DesJarlais, M.D. (TN-04), along with Chairman of the House Oversight Committee Darrell Issa (CA-49) and Subcommittee Chairman of the Health Care, District of Columbia, Census and National Archives Chairman Trey Gowdy (SC-04), sent a letter to IRS Commissioner Douglas Shulman and Secretary of the Treasury Timothy Geithner, following up on a August 20th letter requesting documents and communications stemming from a finalized IRS rule related to Obamacare. This legality of this rule, which may increase federal spending by $500 billion over the next decade, has been challenged by several independent academic and legal experts. Obamacare creates “premium assistance tax credits” for individuals who enroll in health care “exchanges established by [a] State.” As part of its implementation of Obamacare, the IRS issued a final rule that extended these premium assistance tax credits to individuals purchasing insurance in exchanges established by the federal government—not the state exchanges specified in the statutory language of the law. The Committee’s August 20th letter sought relevant documents and communications related to IRS’s and Treasury’s process for producing the controversial rule. On October 12, 2012, Treasury sent a reply to the Committee on behalf of IRS. However, Treasury’s response failed to include a single document, memorandum, communication, or email created before the publication of the proposed rule on August 17, 2011. According to the Committee’s letter, “Treasury did not provide a single piece of evidence to support its claim that IRS complied with the standard process when issuing this rule. Thus, we must conclude that you are either willfully misleading the Committee or that you are purposefully withholding information that is essential to the Committee’s oversight effort.” “While I believe that this IRS rule is a blatant end-around Congress that lacks any supportive legislative history, I had hoped the IRS and Treasury would be able to give explicit details on their collabo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:43Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-statement-september-jobs-numbers | Chuck Fleischmann statement on September jobs numbers | 2012-10-05 | 2012 | 2012-10 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | CHATTANOOGA− Congressman Chuck Fleischmann commented on the September jobs numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The September report indicated that the economy added 114,000 jobs and the unemployment rate decreased to 7.8%. “I was pleased to see this month that unemployment has finally dropped below 8%. While this is better jobs news than we have seen for a long time, we still have too many Americans out of work. This is something I see every day in East Tennessee, especially in the northern part of my district where we have double digit unemployment,” Fleischmann said. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:43Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=098A1B46-49BF-4655-AD76-21FA2D4D9C90 | U.S. Rep. Scott DesJarlais Honored as Guardian of Small Business by NFIB | 2012-09-13 | 2012 | 2012-09 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | The National Federation of Independent Business, the nation’s leading small business association, today named U.S. Rep. Scott DesJarlais (TN-4) a Guardian of Small Business for his outstanding voting record on behalf of America’s small-business owners in the 112th Congress. NFIB President and CEO Dan Danner praised Rep. DesJarlais for “standing for small business.” In presenting the group’s coveted Guardian of Small Business Award, Danner said, “Small-business owners pay close attention to how their lawmakers vote on the issues affecting their businesses and employees and stand by those who stand for them.” “The record shows that Rep. DesJarlais is a true champion of small business, having stood strong on the key small-business votes in the 112th Congress,” said Danner. “This award reflects our members’ appreciation for supporting the NFIB pro-growth agenda for small business.” In all, NFIB will present Guardian awards to 245 Representatives who voted favorably on key small business issues at least 70 percent of the time during the 112th Congress. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:34Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-receives-guardian-small-business-award | Chuck Fleischmann receives “Guardian of Small Business Award” | 2012-09-13 | 2012 | 2012-09 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON−Congressman Chuck Fleischmann was awarded the “Guardian of Small Business Award,” by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the nation’s leading small business advocate. “Small business is the heart and soul of our American free enterprise system. Whether it’s reducing taxes, removing regulations, or cutting spending, I work hard every day on behalf of Tennessee’s small businesses. That’s why I am thrilled to be recognized for my efforts by an organization that truly fights for the American dream,” Fleischmann said. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:34Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-statement-libyan-embassy-attack | Chuck Fleischmann statement on the Libyan Embassy attack | 2012-09-12 | 2012 | 2012-09 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON−Congressman Chuck Fleischmann made the following remarks following news of the attack on the US Embassy in Libya that resulted in four deaths, including Ambassador Christopher Stevens. "The attack on our Embassy in Libya is an attack on our nation, and on our values of free expression. Every day, champions of liberty find themselves under siege by those who resort to violence to enforce their values upon us. We must remain vigilant and confident as a society in defense of our values. My thoughts and prayers go out to the families of Ambassador Christopher Stevens and the victims of this attack." | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:34Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-statement-anniversary-911-attacks | Chuck Fleischmann statement on the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks | 2012-09-11 | 2012 | 2012-09 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON−Congressman Chuck Fleischmann made the following remarks in commemoration of the 11th Anniversary of the September 11th attacks. "On September 11, 2001, our nation was attacked by al-Qaeda terrorists. Enemies of civilization, these terrorists targeted and murdered nearly 3000 innocent Americans. To this day, I still vividly remember watching in horror as the twin towers collapsed. The images of the collapsing towers, the damaged Pentagon, and the wreckage of Flight 93 in Pennsylvania are forever burned into my mind. "Despite the evil of the attack, stories of heroes emerged: Passengers on Flight 93 who stormed the cockpit and prevented an additional attack, firemen and policemen who gave their lives to help workers escape the twin towers, and Father Mychal Judge, who died on scene while administering last rights to the fallen. These stories inspire us, and remind us of the importance of standing up to evil. Of course, no discussion of heroes is complete without mentioning all of the troops who served our nation in response to the attacks. "Today we honor and remember the dead. We thank those who served, the firemen, police officers, and soldiers who risk their lives every day to keep us safe. May the fallen rest in peace." | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:34Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=2AD622B6-CAC1-4760-A539-1EA44B227161 | Representative DesJarlais Statement on August Unemployment Numbers | 2012-09-07 | 2012 | 2012-09 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | On Friday, September 07, 2012, the Labor Department released an economic report showing that U.S. employers added less than the expected 96,000 jobs in August. Additionally, the department stated that the unemployment rate went from 8.3% to 8.1% due to 368,000 people simply dropping out of the labor force last month and not even looking for a job. Representative DesJarlais issued the following statement: “If only the answer to our jobs crisis was soaring rhetoric and well delivered speeches, this nation would be ushering in a new era of prosperity and not 43 consecutive months of unemployment above eight percent. Unfortunately for the president, the solutions to fixing our economy aren’t located on a teleprompter. Rather, the path to a brighter future will be paved by American entrepreneurs and small business owners across our country. Yet this administration continues to put up roadblocks to their success in the form of more regulation, more spending and more government. The results of these actions speak for themselves. “We know that in order to get our country back on track, it is going to require some very tough decisions and bold leadership. The president’s excuses and fear-mongering might make for good politics, but it sure isn’t going to help Tennesseans get back to work. “We have a choice we must make: do we want big government or a big economy? President Obama’s path of putting politics before people and the government before jobs means that we will only continue to see these types of dismal jobs reports.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:34Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-comments-august-job-report | Chuck Fleischmann comments on the August job report | 2012-09-07 | 2012 | 2012-09 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | CHATTANOOGA−Congressman Chuck Fleischmann made the following comments in response to reports indicating that the economy created 96,000 jobs and that the unemployment rate had fallen to 8.1% “August was another frustrating month for the millions of Americans who are looking for work. 96,000 new jobs is a disappointment for so many of us who want to see our economy succeed and our neighbors and friends get back to work. As I travel throughout East Tennessee, I hear from so many folks who want to work but can’t find jobs. When I travel to the north of my district, where we have double digit unemployment, I hear from so many frustrated Tennesseans, and I share their frustration. “I also hear from small businesses who are uncertain. They don’t know what new regulations will be put in place, and they don’t know what their taxes will be on January 1st because Democrats are threatening to raise taxes on thousands of small businesses. We need to stop the tax hike and end this uncertainty, so that the private sector can start hiring again and so that unemployed Americans can get back to work.” The jobs report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics follows a recent report from the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) stating that there were “No new jobs for small business in the month of August.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:34Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=00D07DAF-0B27-4DDE-96B2-666F856C18DF | DesJarlais Statement on Updated CBO Outlook | 2012-08-22 | 2012 | 2012-08 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | Representative Scott DesJarlais, M.D. (TN-04) issued the following statement regarding the Congressional Budget Office’s (CBO) updated Budget and Economic Outlook. Today’s report shows that the 2012 deficit will exceed $1 trillion for the fourth straight year and is on a path to grow by $10 trillion over the next ten years. “For over forty months our nation’s unemployment rate has been above eight percent and our economy is stuck in the worst recovery in seventy years. Unfortunately, today’s report by the CBO cements the fact that President Obama’s policies of higher taxes and out of control government spending has done little to reverse this economic slide. In fact, job creators I talk with say that these record deficits create a climate of uncertainty that leads them to keep capital on the sidelines. “This is now the fourth consecutive year that our nation will be forced to borrow more than $1 trillion from countries like China to pay for this president’s spending spree. That is a $1 trillion burden that is placed squarely on the backs of our children and grandchildren. “Thanks to the refusal of the Democrat controlled Senate to pass a budget after more than three years; this president has never presided over our country with a budget in place. Further, the president’s own budget proposal received zero votes in both the House and Senate. Clearly we need a new direction. House Republicans have made an important first step in passing a budget that reigns in spending while helping to save and strengthen Medicare.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:30Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=B5E59CA8-BEBE-4CAA-A0E6-616729D87137 | Representative DesJarlais Named Friend of the Association During Tennessee Association of Utility Districts Best Tasting Water Contest | 2012-08-20 | 2012 | 2012-08 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | Representative Scott DesJarlais, M.D. (TN-04) was awarded the title of “Friend of the Association” by the Tennessee Association of Utility Districts (TAUD) at the organizations’ sixth consecutive statewide “Best Tasting Water” contest. The Friend of the Association award recognizes those persons that have made substantial contributions to the utility industry in the State of Tennessee. “It is an honor to be named a Friend of the Association,” said Representative DesJarlais. “I applaud the Tennessee Association of Utility Districts for their ongoing efforts in delivering safe and efficient utility services to the people of Tennessee.” The Tennessee Association of Utility Districts is the oldest rural water association in the nation and is comprised of eleven regions statewide. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:30Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=728D4CB2-2625-4E8F-95B8-994944026EE8 | Andrew P. Carpenter Tax Act to Receive Vote on House Floor Wednesday | 2012-08-17 | 2012 | 2012-08 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | The Andrew P. Carpenter Tax Act, introduced by Representative Scott DesJarlais, M.D. (TN-04) will be voted on Wednesday, September 19, 2012. This legislation would amend the Internal Revenue Code by exempting student loan forgiveness from being categorized as gross taxable income for families of veterans who have lost their life while serving on active duty in the United States Armed Forces. Lance Corporal Andrew P. Carpenter of Columbia, Tennessee lost his life on February 19, 2011, while serving his country in Afghanistan. Three years prior, Andrew had taken out a private educational loan. After learning that he had been killed in action, the company administering the loan agreed to completely forgive the debt. Andrew’s family received a 1099-C form from the Department of Education informing them that the debt discharged would be factored into their gross taxable income for that year. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:30Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=2B220CA7-BAEC-42D1-8474-FDB58D43D05D | DesJarlais Statement on Senate Failing to Pass a Budget after 1,200 Days | 2012-08-10 | 2012 | 2012-08 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | Representative Scott DesJarlais, M.D. (TN-04) released the following statement marking 1,200 days since Senate Democrats last adopted a budget: “Tomorrow marks a disappointing and unprecedented 1,200 days since Senate Democrats have passed a budget as required by law. Not only has the Senate failed to pass a budget, they haven’t even produced a budget proposal to be voted on. “Our nation faces a fiscal and economic crisis that makes the need for a long-term financial roadmap more critical now than ever before. Yet Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said it would be ‘foolish’ to do a budget. I simply fail to see the logic behind such a ludicrous sentiment. “The House has done its part and passed a commonsense budget that addresses our nation’s deficit spending in a responsible manner so that we can put our nation back on the path to prosperity. But rather than passing a budget of their own, Senate Democrats resorted to demagoguing our efforts and spreading untruths for perceived political gains. Clearly, that is not the sort of leadership the American people expect. “My colleagues and I in the House are more than willing to work with the Senate to develop a bipartisan plan, but that cannot happen if they refuse to even sit down at the negotiating table. It is time for Senate Democrats to get their act together, follow the law and pass a budget.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:30Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=623A4400-184D-4A7D-B243-96424CDEF844 | VA Mental Health Screening Bus to be in Rockwood on August 6th | 2012-07-29 | 2012 | 2012-07 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | The Mobile VA Mental Health Screening Bus will be in Roane County on Monday, August 6th, in order to give area veterans access to mental health screenings. Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) requested the Mobile VA Mental Health Screening Bus after news that the current VA clinic in Rockwood would be closing due to staffing issues. “Our nation owes an immeasurable debt of gratitude to the brave men and women who have worn the uniform of the United States military,” said Rep. DesJarlais. “We must make every effort to ensure that our veterans have the resources that they need to heal from the physical and mental wounds of battle. I hope that the mobile mental health screening bus will serve as an adequate replacement until we can find a more permanent solution.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:25Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=28CB3EB1-6612-4EE5-9433-B0DF6D639D74 | DesJarlais Statement on Bureau of Economic Analysis Report Showing GDP Growth Has Slowed to 1.5 Percent | 2012-07-26 | 2012 | 2012-07 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | On Friday, July 27, 2012, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis released a report showing that the United States’ Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has slowed to an annual rate of 1.5 percent vs. a 3.5 percent rate in 2010. “Today’s dismal economic report provides us with further evidence that this administration’s policies of more spending, more regulation and more government are moving our economy in the wrong direction,” said Representative DesJarlais. “To make matters worse, it seems that President Obama is completely out of touch with the seriousness of our economic situation. In fact, at a recent campaign event the president had the audacity to state that his economic plan had actually worked. How can you define 41 straight months of unemployment above eight percent as a success? Clearly, we must change course. That is why my Republican colleagues and I continue to put forth real measures that will empower the private sector and help businesses grow and create badly needed jobs. Tennesseans know that the way out of economic uncertainty will be paved by small businesses – not the federal government.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:25Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=9D395FAF-2A80-4B0E-96B6-52EB6D18CBFD | Rep. DesJarlais Votes in Favor of Auditing the Federal Reserve | 2012-07-25 | 2012 | 2012-07 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | On Wednesday, July 25, 2012, Representative Scott DesJarlais, M.D. (TN-04) voted in favor of H.R. 459, the Federal Reserve Transparency Act of 2011, introduced by Representative Ron Paul (TX-14). This legislation would remove restrictions on Government Accountability Office (GAO) audits of the Federal Reserve pertaining to monetary policy and requires a full audit to be completed by GAO and submitted to Congress within 12 months. “Our constitution is clear that Congress has authority over our nation’s monetary policy,” said Rep. DesJarlais. “Since the 2008 financial crisis, the fed has lent out nearly $16 trillion through a series of bailouts, loans to foreign governments and other economic interventions. Clearly, there is a critical need for transparency to ensure that decisions are being made that do not jeopardize our nation’s economy. I applaud my colleague, Rep. Paul, for his ongoing efforts in addressing this issue and hope that the Senate will act quickly to pass this bipartisan legislation.” This legislation passed the United States House of Representatives with a vote of 327-98. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:25Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-votes-audit-federal-reserve | Chuck Fleischmann votes to Audit the Federal Reserve | 2012-07-25 | 2012 | 2012-07 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON−Congressman Chuck Fleischmann made the following remarks after voting for H.R. 459, the Federal Reserve Transparency Act. “Between purchasing toxic assets during the 2008 financial crisis, to the current purchase of trillions of dollars of US debt, it is clear that the Federal Reserve faces significant exposure that could harm our economy. An audit of the Fed is desperately needed to provide transparency to Congress and the American people. With the Federal Reserve pumping over $65 billion into the European economy, it is long past time that we examine the Fed’s role in our financial system.” Mr. Fleischmann is also a cosponsor of H.R. 459. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:25Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-votes-to-repeal-obamacare-again | Chuck Fleischmann votes to repeal Obamacare again | 2012-07-11 | 2012 | 2012-07 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Congressman Fleischmann made the following remarks after voting to repeal Obamacare. “Since the day I was elected I have been fighting to repeal Obamacare, and I will continue to vote until Obamacare is no more. This continues a promise I made to Tennesseans when I first ran for Congress. Today’s vote demonstrates the Republican commitment to repeal and that, if we have the necessary majorities, Obamacare will be repealed,” Fleischmann said. “The simple fact is that Obamacare is a job killer. Thanks to the employer mandate, businesses are required to provide government approved insurance once they hit a certain threshold. So if a small business has 48 employees and needs to start providing government approved insurance at 50 employees, why would they expand their business? This is in addition to all of the job killing taxes sprinkled throughout the bill. When our nation needs jobs desperately, Obamacare penalizes workers and job creators.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:25Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-comments-on-the-june-jobs-report | Chuck Fleischmann comments on the June jobs report | 2012-07-06 | 2012 | 2012-07 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | CHATTANOOGA – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann made the following comments after hearing that the economy added only 80,000 jobs and that unemployment remained at 8.2%. “Today’s jobs report reminds us of the millions of unemployed Americans who want to work but simply cannot. It reminds us of the thousands of small businesses that want to expand and hire workers but simply cannot because they are being strangled by red tape and regulation. Republicans have offered a positive growth agenda, passing everything from a 20% small business tax cut, to an energy exploration bill that could create thousands of jobs, to regulatory reform so small businesses can know what their costs will be,” Fleischmann said. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:25Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-observes-july-4th | Chuck Fleischmann observes July 4th | 2012-07-03 | 2012 | 2012-07 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | CHATTANOOGA – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann made the following remarks in observance of the July 4th Holiday. “On July 4th, in 1776, a small group of men in Philadelphia took a remarkable step. They declared themselves independent of the British King, and founded a nation based upon the ideals of liberty and equality under the law. These were revolutionary concepts at the time, but what these men did changed the world. In those days, rulers drew their legitimacy from the ‘divine right of kings,’ but our founding fathers broke the bonds of monarchy and created a government that derived its legitimacy from the consent of the governed,” Fleischmann said. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:25Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-comments-on-the-supreme-court-obamacare-decision | Chuck Fleischmann comments on the Supreme Court Obamacare decision | 2012-06-28 | 2012 | 2012-06 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann made the following comments following the Supreme Court decision to uphold the Patient Protection and Affordability Care Act. “The Supreme Court made the wrong decision today. The Constitution places specific limits on the government, and the court unfortunately did not recognize those limits in allowing Obamacare to stand. While the Supreme Court may consider the individual mandate a tax, the Obama administration repeatedly claimed that this was not a tax when they tried to pass Obamacare. Like many conservatives, I believe the individual mandate cannot be justified as a tax,” Fleischmann said. “Not only does Obamacare force Americans to buy insurance whether they want it or not, but it also forces Americans to subsidize birth control even if it violates their faith. Additionally, the law creates IPAB, the Independent Payment Advisory Board. This board is anything but advisory. It has the power to control Medicare payments, and its decisions carry the full force of law. “The results of Obamacare are clear: Higher healthcare costs, hundreds of billions in tax increases, top down government control of healthcare, and a continuation of our massive deficits. Now, it is time for Congressional Republicans to demonstrate our commitment to smaller government, and continue the fight to repeal Obamacare. Our healthcare, our nation’s finances, and our national character demand nothing less.” Rep. Fleischmann has been a consistent advocate of repealing Obamacare throughout his time in Congress, and has been critical of many of the bill’s provisions. One of Rep. Fleischmann’s earliest votes was a full repeal of Obamacare in January of 2011. He has cosponsored and voted to repeal the 1099 provision of Obamacare, cosponsored and voted for a bill to repeal the Independent Patient Advisory Board, and cosponsored and voted for legislation that repeals the Medical Device tax. To speak with Rep. Fleischmann about the Supreme Court decision, please use the contact information above. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:16Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-votes-hold-attorney-general-eric-holder-contempt-congress | Chuck Fleischmann votes to hold Attorney General Eric Holder in contempt of Congress | 2012-06-28 | 2012 | 2012-06 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann made the following statement after voting to hold Attorney General Eric Holder in contempt of Congress. “No one is above the law. Not me, not the President, and certainly not the Attorney General. Eric Holder’s continued stonewalling in the wake of the Fast & Furious scandal is a disgrace. Congress and the American public have the right to a full accounting about a scandal where guns were knowingly put in the hands of straw purchasers affiliated with drug cartels. This was done over the objections of on-the-ground ATF agents and concerned gun shop owners. Fast & Furious directly led to the death of Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry, as well as numerous Mexican citizens,” Fleischmann said. “Since there is near universal agreement that Fast & Furious was at best misguided, one would think that Eric Holder would want to work with Congress to get to the bottom of this. Instead, he has stonewalled at every turn, and made statements to investigators which have been contradicted by Department of Justice documents. Now, President Obama has joined in the stonewalling, deciding to assert executive privilege. The American people demand answers, and it is my hope that by finding Eric Holder in contempt, we will get those answers.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:16Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=6069B9F5-63BA-4036-9377-BDAE5C80C212 | DesJarlais Statement on Supreme Court Ruling on Affordable Care Act | 2012-06-27 | 2012 | 2012-06 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | Representative Scott DesJarlais, M.D. (TN-04) issued the following statement after the Supreme Court ruled 5-4 to uphold the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate as a tax. “This is a sad day for health care, personal freedom and those opposed to the intrusion of big government into their lives. Today’s ruling does not change the fact that ObamaCare is still bad for patients, bad for taxpayers and destructive to our nation’s health care system. It is now even more critical that we move forward in fully repealing this law and instituting step-by-step, patient-centered solutions that will lower medical costs and expand access to care.” “Today’s ruling confirms what House Republicans have been saying from the beginning: ObamaCare is now officially the biggest tax increase in American history.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:16Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-comments-supreme-court-ruling-arizonas-immigration-law | Chuck Fleischmann comments on the Supreme Court ruling on Arizona’s immigration law | 2012-06-25 | 2012 | 2012-06 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann made the following statement after the Supreme Court upheld part of Arizona's S.B 1070 law, while striking down other provisions. "The Supreme Court decision today underscores the need for the federal government to step up and enforce our nation's laws. The very fact that Arizona saw the need for S.B. 1070 is the result of the Obama Administration's failure to secure our border. While the Supreme Court did strike down parts of the law, they upheld the law's core provision. The State of Arizona has to live with the consequences of illegal immigration daily, so I am not surprised that they saw the need for this action. It is my hope that the Obama Administration will finally step up and start enforcing federal immigration law," Fleischmann said. Passed in response to the Obama administration's lax enforcement of federal immigration law, S.B. 1070 allows Arizona law enforcement to ask about immigration status during a lawful stop if there is a "reasonable suspicion" that a person is here illegally. Although the Supreme Court struck down some provisions, this part of the law was upheld. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:16Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=C7A90F29-F393-4C97-BEBF-480369DD89FD | DesJarlais Votes to Hold Attorney General Eric Holder in Contempt of Congress | 2012-06-20 | 2012 | 2012-06 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform voted to hold Attorney General Eric Holder in contempt of Congress. “It is truly regrettable that we have gotten to this point, but the attorney general’s actions have simply left us with no other choice. The Justice Department has continued to stonewall congressional investigators despite numerous requests for information relating to the gun walking operation known as Fast and Furious. At this point, I can draw no other conclusion than Mr. Holder is deliberately and actively withholding information for purely political reasons. The American people deserve answers as to who knew, who authorized and who could have stopped this flawed operation that contributed to the death of border patrol agent Brian Terry and over 200 Mexican citizens.” Below are Representative DesJarlais opening remarks as prepared from today’s Oversight Committee hearing: Opening Statement The Honorable Scott DesJarlais Oversight and Government Reform Committee Contempt Resolution June 20, 2012 Mr. Chairman, thank you for bringing us here today, and thank you for diligence in pursuing this extremely important matter. I truly wish that it hadn’t gotten to this point, but the actions of the Justice Department have left us with no other choice. This is far from political theater. This is a legitimate investigation into an operation – the Fast and the Furious – that was so flawed that it flew right into the face of common sense. There are many people in this room on both sides of the aisle that would agree that one person – any person – within the chain of command in this federal bureaucracy should have stopped this gun walking operation that put the lives of law enforcement officials and innocent citizens in harm’s way. We were originally told that this was a flawed decision made by local officials. Then we learned that, in fact, there was significant information known by officials in Washington about the c… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:16Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=077A0B83-558D-43D9-AAA3-9328EA571016 | Reps. DesJarlais and Roe Introduce Legislation Disapproving of IRS Actions to Change Impasse Within Affordable Care Act | 2012-06-19 | 2012 | 2012-06 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | Representatives Scott DesJarlais, M.D. (TN-04) and Phil Roe, M.D. (TN-01) introduced H.J.RES.112: Disapproving the rule submitted by the Internal Revenue Service relating to the health insurance premium tax credits. This legislation, pursuant to the Congressional Review Act, would prevent the enactment of a May IRS rule that substantially alters the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) ability to offer premium assistance tax credits through federally run insurance exchanges. As written, the ACA only allows these tax credits to be issued in state-based exchanges – not exchanges run by the federal government. “This is yet another glaring example of how the Democrats approach of ‘we have to pass the bill so you can find out what is in it’ led to a substantially flawed piece of legislation,” said Rep. DesJarlais. “Knowingly passing imperfect legislation and then relying on the executive branch to unilaterally fix to these errors down the road sets a terrible precedent. Our Constitution is clear in stating that Congress has the sole power to enact legislation. Clearly, the actions taken by the IRS in promulgating this rule blatantly violate our separation of powers.” “Since the president’s health care bill became law two years ago, only major problems have arisen including its failure to address the cost crisis in our health care system, the debate over the bill’s constitutionality and contradictions in its language,” said Roe. “That is why I, along with my colleague Dr. DesJarlais, introduced a Resolution to amend contradictory language pertaining to the health insurance premium tax credits. A proposed rule relating to the federal health insurance premium tax credits, included in the president’s health care law, contradicts the explicit statutory language describing individuals’ eligibility for receipt of these tax credits. This only adds to the confusion surrounding the law, and it is another example that the health care bill was rushed through Congress by Democrats on a partisan basis.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:16Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=764BF617-28A1-4082-8BB3-D770BC684597 | ADVISORY: Oversight Committee Announces Murfreesboro, TN Field Hearing on Regulatory Effects on Job Creation | 2012-06-12 | 2012 | 2012-06 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Darrell Issa (R-CA) today announced an official Congressional field hearing entitled, “Tennessee Job Creation: Do Federal Government Regulations Help or Hinder Tennessee’s Economic Development?” The hearing will begin at 9:00amCST on Monday, June 18, 2012 at S102 Business and Aerospace Building, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The hearing, which is open to the public, will feature testimony from state leaders and Tennessee job creators on the effects of state and federal policies and regulations. “The federal government has yet to grasp the effects of burdensome regulations that obstruct job growth and economic recovery. During the course of this Administration, regulatory costs have grown for American job creators across the board,” said Chairman Issa. “We’re going to Tennessee to hear directly from those on the ground who are surviving in this stifling regulatory environment because the private sector is not ‘doing fine.’” “Last year, I embarked on my Tennessee Job Creators Tour in an effort to talk directly with businesses owners here in Tennessee about ways that the federal government was hurting their ability to grow and create jobs,” said Representative DesJarlais. “What I heard from them painted a troubling picture of Washington regulators imposing mountains of job-crushing bureaucratic red tape. I look forward to having Chairman Issa down to Tennessee to hear from our local job-creators on ways that Washington can reduce the barriers to private sector job creation. Details for Monday’s hearing in Murfreesboro: What: Official Congressional Field Hearing of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee “Tennessee Job Creation: Do Federal Government Regulations Help or Hinder Tennessee’s Economic Development?” with Chairman Darrell Issa (R-CA), Rep. Scott Desjarlais (R-TN), Rep. Diane Black (R-TN) and Rep. Marsha Blackburn will join Chairman Issa and Rep. Desjarlais on the dais. Date/Time: 9:00am CST on Monday, Ju… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:16Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-votes-repeal-medical-device-tax | Chuck Fleischmann votes to repeal the Medical Device Tax | 2012-06-07 | 2012 | 2012-06 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON−Congressman Chuck Fleischmann voted for H.R. 436, the Health Care Cost Reduction Act of 2012. H.R. 436 repeals the Medical Device Tax, a 2.3% tax on medical devices that raised $29 billion to fund Obamacare. The bill is fully offset and will actually reduce the deficit by $6.7 billion. “In the past 50 years, new medical devices have led to remarkable treatments and patient outcomes that our parents could scarcely imagine. With recent advances in the medical device field, the last thing we need is a punishing tax which ships jobs overseas and makes medical devices more expensive for sick children. 98% of medical device companies employ fewer than 500 employees, so this is truly a tax on our small businesses,” Fleischmann said. “Since the tax affects sales, not profits, this tax will be especially damaging to startup companies and companies that invest heavily in R&D. It is heartening to see many Democrats recognized the danger of this tax and joined House Republicans in support of repeal. I look forward to continuing the fight to end Obamacare in its entirety.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:16Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=2ECC4FA8-A0A8-4BE4-A63F-24612D5EB961 | Remembering the D-Day Invasion | 2012-06-06 | 2012 | 2012-06 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | As we go about our day today let us stop and give pause and thanks for the bravery and determination of those who were involved in the D-Day activities of June 6, 1944. Sixty-Eight years ago today, allied forces began the Normandy invasion in an effort to deal a fatal blow to Hitler, Nazi Germany, and her allies. Deemed Operation Overlord, the amphibious invasion was the largest in world history and was executed by land, sea, and air by allies made up of Americans, British and Canadian forces. On beaches named Sword, Juno, Gold, Utah, and Omaha and a place called Pointe du Hoc, roughly 160,000 ground, naval, and airborne forces fought and died on these now famous landmarks. While we were victorious in our struggle, at least 12,000 casualties were recorded throughout the day. With American troops engaged in Afghanistan and stationed around the world, may we offer a moment of silence for their safety and protection. May we also lift up those who never left the beaches of Normandy and their fellow veterans of World War II for all they did to preserve freedom and to liberate those forced to live under tyranny. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:16Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=C7F8C0EF-8E9C-4A4D-9CB7-75DAEAE54D16 | Representative DesJarlais Meets with Students from Williamson County | 2012-06-04 | 2012 | 2012-06 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | On Thursday, May 31, 2012, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) met with students from Williamson County in Washington, D.C. Among other educational activities, these students enjoyed a tour of the United States Capitol organized by Congressman DesJarlais’ office to witness the legislative process first-hand. “It is extremely encouraging to see Tennessee students here in Washington learning about their government,” said Representative DesJarlais. “Their presence always serves as a reminder of our duty to leave the next generation with a country that has the same remarkable opportunities as the one that we inherited from the last generation.” Note: The Office of Congressman DesJarlais gladly provides assistance to individual constituents as well as student groups interested in tours of the United States Capitol. Please visit desjarlais.house.gov for more information on booking tours. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:16Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-comments-on-weak-may-jobs-report | Chuck Fleischmann comments on weak May jobs report | 2012-06-01 | 2012 | 2012-06 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON –Congressman Chuck Fleischmann issued the following statement after receiving the May jobs report. The report stated that only 69,000 jobs were added for the month of May, and that unemployment had increased to 8.2%. “The poor jobs report underscores the continued failure of President Obama’s economic policies. While businesses struggle to make ends meet and unemployed Americans struggle to find jobs, the President continues his unrelenting regulatory war against our prosperity and talks about tax increases that will do virtually nothing to close our deficit. I have introduced a seven point jobs plan, and we have passed 27 jobs bills in the House of Representatives, only to see them die in the Democrat controlled Senate,” Fleischmann said. “With millions of students entering the workforce for the first time this month, the need to create jobs is especially urgent. I hope that the President and Senate will put partisan bickering and tax increases off to the side, and work with us on job creation solutions like reducing the tax and regulatory burden, exploring our energy resources, and approving the Keystone XL pipeline.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:16Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=A8103940-304E-4549-B30F-4F67BA6B6F28 | Representative DesJarlais Statement on the May Unemployment Report | 2012-05-31 | 2012 | 2012-05 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | – Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement on the May Unemployment Report showing that the economy added just 69,000 jobs in May - well below expectations of 150,000 – and that the unemployment rate rose up to 8.2 percent. “Despite President Obama’s promise that his policies would reduce the unemployment rate to below six percent, today’s report marks 40 consecutive months of unemployment higher than eight percent. Clearly the president’s approach of stimulus spending, overregulation and higher taxes has only succeeded in growing economic uncertainty and keeping businesses from creating badly needed jobs. “I have had an opportunity to meet with more than forty business owners in the Fourth district during my Tennessee Job Creators Tour. Their message is clear: the federal government is hurting their ability to hire more workers. In fact, the Small Business Administration has estimated that government regulations cost businesses with fewer than twenty employees $10,585 a year per employee. That is money that should be used to create jobs – not pay for more wasteful Washington spending. “There is no doubt that we must change course. The House has passed more than 30 bipartisan jobs bills that will eliminate excessive bureaucratic red tape, expand energy production like the Keystone XL pipeline and repeal job-crushing laws like those contained in ObamaCare. Unfortunately, Senate Democrats have blocked most of these important measures from receiving a fair vote. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:08Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-votes-prenatal-nondiscrimination-act-prenda-2012 | Chuck Fleischmann votes for the Prenatal Nondiscrimination Act (PRENDA) of 2012 | 2012-05-31 | 2012 | 2012-05 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann voted for H.R. 3541, the Prenatal Nondiscrimination Act (PRENDA) of 2012.PRENDA bans sex-selective abortions, the victims of whom are overwhelmingly female. “Sex-selective abortion is a moral outrage, in which pregnant women are often coerced into ending the life of their unborn daughters. This represents a true war on women that demands our action. Many nations that have experienced sex selective abortions have acted to ban the practice. It is time that the United States takes action to protect the life of unborn women from those who would end their life simply for being female. While I am staunchly pro-life, it is my hope that Americans of all beliefs can agree that sex-selective abortions are a tragedy and that the practice should be ended,” Fleischmann said. Sex-selective terminations of pregnancy are usually late term or partial birth abortion procedures performed after the child is pain capable. Four separate university studies concluded that sex-selective abortions take place within the United States. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:08Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=BFC4000D-FE96-408C-A4F3-27DC483D49CD | DesJarlais Votes to Honor our Nation’s Commitment to Veterans | 2012-05-30 | 2012 | 2012-05 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | On Thursday, May 31, 2012, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) voted in favor of H.R. 5854 – Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. This legislation will fund military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2013. “Our veterans gave their best in defense of our nation, now it is Congresses turn to do the same. I was proud to vote in favor of legislation that while fiscally sound, ensures our nation’s 22 million veterans and their families receive the necessary support and the best care available,” said Representative DesJarlais.” Key provisions of this legislation include: 1. $73 million for suicide-prevention programs 2. $12.6 billion for education and training of veterans and service members 3. $6 billion for homeless veterans’ outreach 4. $1 billion for military medical facilities 5. $67 million for the Armed Forces Retirement Home Trust Fund | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:08Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-addresses-memorial-day-crowd-chattanooga-national-cemetery | Chuck Fleischmann addresses Memorial Day crowd at Chattanooga National Cemetery | 2012-05-29 | 2012 | 2012-05 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | CHATTANOOGA – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann observed Memorial Day at Chattanooga National Cemetery Monday morning. He made brief remarks to the assembled crowd in remembrance of those who paid the ultimate price to ensure the continuation of liberty. Rep. Fleischmann’s prepared remarks are below. “Our nation is unique. We are founded on the ideal of liberty; an ideal that so many Americans have paid an incredible price to uphold. Throughout our history, millions of Americans have gallantly answered our nation’s call, and while all have served selflessly in defense of liberty, many have paid the ultimate price. Fighting for our nation has never been easy. It is a difficult, dangerous job. Those who fight for our country risk their very lives so that we may enjoy our liberty and our safety. “Memorial Day is a day in which we recognize the sacrifice of those who have fallen. So many of our young men and women who have paid the ultimate price so that we may sleep soundly at night. What our troops do is nothing less than incredible. They are asked for so much, and they deliver at great personal sacrifice. I remain in awe of what they do on a daily basis. “Let us honor and remember the sacrifice of those killed and wounded today. Let us pray for the safety of those men and women currently fighting abroad.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:08Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-comments-pat-summitt-being-awarded-presidential-medal | Chuck Fleischmann comments on Pat Summitt being awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom | 2012-05-29 | 2012 | 2012-05 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann made the following statement in honor of Pat Summitt, who is being awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom today. "The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest award our nation can give a civilian; an award fitting for a woman with as legendary of a career as Coach Summitt. Her legacy is more than just her incredible winning record; it is also the 100% graduation rate of her players, and the countless young women who were inspired to play sports by her example. From her humble beginnings driving the team van to games, Pat Summitt built the Lady Vols into a national powerhouse with 38 straight years of winning seasons. I congratulate Coach Summitt on a well deserved Presidential Medal of Freedom," Fleischmann said. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:08Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-observes-memorial-day | Chuck Fleischmann observes Memorial Day | 2012-05-27 | 2012 | 2012-05 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | CHATTANOOGA – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann made the following remarks in observance of Memorial Day. "One of the most precious gifts bestowed upon us by our Creator is our liberty. For me, Memorial Day is the recognition of the price paid by so many Americans for the blessing of our freedom, our security and our safety. Throughout our history, millions of Americans have gallantly answered our nation's call, and while all have served selflessly in defense of liberty, many have paid the ultimate price. We recognize the sacrifice of our fallen on this day, and I join many other Americans in praying for the safe return of our men and women fighting abroad." | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:08Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=B7880F74-68D2-4093-8955-C237CFF32DE0 | DesJarlais Demands Answers from Secretary Sebelius on Taxpayer Dollars Being Used to Fund Lobbying and Advocacy Campaigns | 2012-05-15 | 2012 | 2012-05 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) sent a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius asking for information on the use of federal funds administered by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in lobbying and public advocacy efforts attacking American food and beverage products. Several states have used federal grants to run public affairs and lobbying campaigns to push for taxes on soda products, an act prohibited by the federal government. Additionally, states have been using CDC grant money to run misleading advertisements attacking American food and beverage products and the companies that make them. Representative DesJarlais has introduced legislation preventing the use of taxpayer dollars in advertising campaigns against any food or beverage deemed safe and lawfully marketed under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Representative DesJarlais’ letter asks Secretary Sebelius for her agency’s position on the prohibition on the use of federal funds for lobbying and advocacy campaigns and a justification for the guidance provided to grantees which specifically encourages and authorizes them to use funds for advocacy and lobbying campaigns. ***** The Honorable Kathleen Sebelius Secretary Department of Health and Human Services 200 Independence Avenue, S.W. Washington, D.C. 20201 Dear Secretary Sebelius: As a Member of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee’s Subcommittee on Regulatory Affairs, Stimulus Oversight, and Government Spending, one of my chief responsibilities is to ensure that taxpayer dollars are being used in an efficient, responsible and lawful manner. Through my work on the committee it has come to the attention of my office that several states have been using taxpayer dollars to fund public relations campaigns attacking American food and beverage products. Specifically, I was informed that $230 million of stimulus grant money was spent running advertisements attacking soft drink companies. These were taxpayer dollars that were intended to stimu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:08Z |
| https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chuck-fleischmann-receives-award-american-conservative-union | Chuck Fleischmann receives award from American Conservative Union | 2012-05-14 | 2012 | 2012-05 | Republican | House | TN | Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann | F000459 | fleischmann.house.gov | fleischmann | https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann received the “ACU Conservative” award from the American Conservative Union. Considered the gold standard of lawmaker ratings, the “ACU Conservative” award is given only to those who receive scores of 80% or above in the American Conservative Union’s ratings of Congress. Rep. Fleischmann scored an 88%. “I ran for Congress to represent commonsense conservative values, so I am pleased to see that the American Conservative Union has recognized my work. Whether it is fighting to reduce the size of government, protecting the unborn, or returning our nation to its founding Constitutional principles, I have practiced what I preach every day in Congress,” Fleischmann said. “The ACU Conservative Award is a reflection of Representative Chuck Fleischmann’s consistent support of conservative principles on a wide range of issues of concern to grassroots conservatives in 2011. At a time when the fundamental principles of the American system of government are being challenged, Representative Chuck Fleischmann stands with those who are trying to preserve those principles,” said American Conservative Union Chairman Al Cardenas. In addition to his rating from the American Conservative Union, Rep. Fleischmann has also received top ratings from other conservative groups. Rep. Fleischmann was tied for most conservative Tennessee House Member in the fiscally conservative Club for Growth 2011 scorecard, and he is rated the 2nd most conservative lawmaker in the state by Heritage Action. Heritage Action is the political advocacy arm of the Heritage Foundation, a leading conservative think tank. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:08Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=5335ED96-8325-4786-BA9A-445B5BD0B264 | DesJarlais SNAP Act Included as Part of Deficit Reduction Package | 2012-05-09 | 2012 | 2012-05 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC –Representative Scott DesJarlais’ Stopping Needless Additional Performance Bonuses (SNAP) Act will be included as part of the Sequester Replacement Reconciliation Act, which is scheduled to be voted on Thursday, May 10th, 2012. The Sequester Replacement Reconciliation Act will prevent across-the-board spending cuts to our military that are set to take effect this January as a result of the failure of the Supercommittee to cut $1.2 trillion dollars from our debt. “While it is important to maintain fiscal discipline we must take steps to stave off across-the-board spending cuts that would harm our ability to meet any threat to America’s safety and stability,” said Representative DesJarlais. “House Republicans have put forth legislation that reduces this unacceptable risk to our national security and replaces it with sensible savings and common sense reductions. This includes my bill, the SNAP Act, which repeals government funded bonuses given to states for efficiently signing individuals up for food stamps – a task that does not be incentivized with taxpayer dollars. The SNAP Act will save nearly $500 million dollars over 10 years.” Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta, warned Congress that under the current sequestration law, cuts to the nation’s defense capabilities would result in: · The smallest ground force since 1940. · The smallest fleet of ships since 1915. · The smallest tactical fighter force in the history of the Air Force. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:08Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=B3D78CF7-2DC8-4CB7-8A85-8814A496E6EF | House Republicans Fight to Stop Devastating Cuts to our Nation’s Military Forces | 2012-05-09 | 2012 | 2012-05 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement upon passage of the Sequester Replacement Reconciliation Act: “House Republicans have put forth and passed a common sense deficit reduction package that will stave off the draconian cuts facing our military. By cleaning up programs that are rife with waste, fraud and abuse we can both achieve long-term debt reduction and ensure that our military men and women do not end up paying the price for Washington’s fiscal irresponsibility. “One of the provisions included in this legislation is my SNAP Act, which eliminates taxpayer funded bonuses given to states for efficiently signing up individuals for food stamps. The SNAP Act will save nearly $50 million dollars a year. Certainly we can all agree that those funds would be better spent ensuring our servicemen and women have the resources they need to properly do their job. “Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta has called these defense cuts ‘unacceptable’ and has stated that they would ‘do real damage to our security, our troops and their families, and our military’s ability to protect the nation’. I hope that President Obama will heed the words of his defense secretary and call upon the Senate to take up and pass this legislation.” According to the House Armed Services Committee, under the current sequestration law, the cuts to the nation’s defense capabilities would result in: · The smallest ground force since 1940. · The smallest fleet of ships since 1915. · The smallest tactical fighter force in the history of the Air Force | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:08Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=DA5A94FD-EED1-4B11-A828-534D413E0170 | Rep. DesJarlais Statement on Draft of Contempt of Congress Resolution Against Attorney General Eric Holder | 2012-05-07 | 2012 | 2012-05 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Darrell Issa (R-CA) has distributed a staff briefing paper and draft of a contempt of Congress resolution against Attorney General Eric Holder to Members of the House Oversight Committee. The briefing paper explains what happened in Operation Fast and Furious, the hardships faced by the family of fallen Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry in getting truthful answers about his death, how agents who blew the whistle on the reckless operation have faced retaliation, and the carnage in Mexico that Fast and Furious has helped fuel. “The Justice Department and the Obama administration have continued to stonewall the American people and congressional investigators,” said Representative DesJarlais. “We have given the attorney general ample opportunity to come forth and present the facts surrounding Fast and Furious, yet his department has refused to cooperate. After reviewing the draft report, I believe that this is an appropriate course of action and urge Chairman Issa to move forward with this resolution holding Attorney General Holder in contempt of Congress. I truly wish that it hadn’t gotten to this point, but their actions have left us with no other choice.” https://oversight.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Update-on-Fast-and-Furious-with-attachment-FINAL.pdf | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:08Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=1061B981-986E-425B-B477-2D8B2E1AD5B4 | Representative DesJarlais Introduces the Andrew P. Carpenter Tax Act | 2012-05-01 | 2012 | 2012-05 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | – Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) has introduced H.R.5044, the Andrew P. Carpenter Tax Act. Lance Corporal Andrew P. Carpenter of Columbia, Tennessee lost his life on February 19, 2011, while serving his country in Afghanistan. Three years prior, Andrew had taken out a private educational loan. After learning that he had been killed in action, the company administering the loan agreed to completely forgive the debt. Upon forgiveness of the debt, the family received a 1099-C form from the Department of Education informing them that the debt discharged would be factored into their gross taxable income for that year. This legislation would amend the Internal Revenue Code by exempting student loan forgiveness from being categorized as gross taxable income for families of veterans who have lost their life while serving on active duty in the United States Armed Forces. “I am humbled to have the honor of working with the Carpenter family to introduce this legislation,” said Representative DesJarlais. “It is a fitting way to fix a glaring problem in our tax code, while paying tribute to the memory of Lance Corporal Carpenter. His family has experienced the pain of losing their son, husband and father. Hopefully, if passed this measure will in some way ease this burden.” It is important to note that this bill would not make it mandatory for private lenders to forgive education loans. Private loan companies would still have the option of whether or not to forgive a loan, and federally backed loans are already forgiven for deceased veterans under the Higher Education Act. This legislation would simply prevent the IRS from collecting taxes on any amount of loan forgiveness. The Andrew P. Carpenter Tax Act would have a retroactive effective date of October 7, 2001, the start of Operation Enduring Freedom. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:08Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=46767F0A-BBF8-43F9-BDF6-C1509609806E | DesJarlais Applauds Decision by Department of Labor to Withdraw Rule Prohibiting Children From Working on Farms | 2012-04-26 | 2012 | 2012-04 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) released the following statement after the recent announcement by the Department of Labor that they would withdraw a proposal limiting the types of work that children can perform on farms: “Growing up, I spent a lot of time doing farm work and I’ll be the first to admit that it wasn’t always fun. But looking back, I can say unequivocally that the values and appreciation for hard work that it instilled in me played a large part in shaping who I am today. For the federal government to try to micromanage what sort of tasks kids can do on a farm is not only gross example of government intrusion, it erodes the agricultural and the rural way of life. “I was proud to help lead an effort in the House to repeal this mandate and thank the many agriculture groups across our state, like the Tennessee Farm Bureau, and the numerous family farmers who joined in opposition to these rules. In particular, I want to recognize State Senator Bill Ketron for introducing legislation in the Tennessee General Assembly prohibiting state or local funds from being used to enforce this rule.” “This proposal showed that the Obama administration does not understand family farms or agricultural life,” said Senator Bill Ketron (R-Murfreesboro). “The rules would have limited, or even eliminated, educational opportunities for kids who “learn by doing” on Tennessee farms. I am glad that due to an outpouring of education from the agricultural community that they finally get it.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:02Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=A2CD9565-DC39-4E56-A76A-32BDA220A84F | 2012 Fourth District Congressional Art Show | 2012-04-04 | 2012 | 2012-04 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | When: April 19th 10am-1pm CST Where: Tennessee Technology Center (241 Vo-Tech Drive McMinnville, TN 37110) Details: Art submitted from high school student across Tennessee’s 4th Congressional district will be on display for the public view. Judges from area colleges and universities will be on site to evaluate the art and select 10 finalists for the Congressional Art Competition. Each spring, a nation-wide high school arts competition is sponsored by the Members of the U.S. House of Representatives. The Artistic Discovery Contest is an opportunity to recognize and encourage local artistic talent. The over-all winner of the district competition will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol. Please come out and show your support for the 4th District's upcoming artists. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:11:02Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=691D8E35-742F-4440-B5DB-B29BB1D1AA46 | Representative DesJarlais Votes in Favor of Republican Budget | 2012-03-29 | 2012 | 2012-03 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of House Republicans’ Fiscal Year 2013 budget, entitled the Path to Prosperity: “There can be no more doubt that our nation is set on an unsustainable spending course, which if not changed, will surely lead to our economic collapse. The math speaks for itself – we can no longer maintain the status quo. “The Path to Prosperity makes the tough choices necessary to rein in excessive government spending and put our nation on a track to eliminating deficits and paying down our debt. Families all across Tennessee have had to learn to live within their means and it is time for the government to do the same. “Equally as important, this budget prevents Medicare from going broke in 2024 – a fact confirmed by the 2011 Medicare Trustees Report. The Path to Prosperity incorporates the bipartisan Ryan-Wyden proposal that allows current seniors to keep their existing plans while allowing future seniors – not Washington bureaucrats – to choose what plan is right for them. If we act now, we can ensure that current seniors will see no changes to their plans. “The other side often talks about a balanced approach. Yet, they raise taxes not to reduce the deficit, but rather to further fuel their runaway spending train. The president’s budget was brought to a vote on the House floor where it failed to receive a single vote – Republican or Democrat. And the Senate has not produced a budget in more than 1,000 days. Additionally, the president’s budget for last year failed to receive a single vote in the Democrat-controlled Senate. This just highlights the absolute lack of leadership and credibility the president has on budgetary issues. “Clearly we need a new direction. I was sent to Washington to make the difficult spending decisions needed to prevent our children and grandchildren from inheriting a mountain of debt. I’m proud to support the Path to Prosperity because it is the right prescription for America.” The Path to Prosperity: C… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:10:52Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=7DD41C1E-AA5A-4E0E-8A7F-276CEE564B47 | U.S. Chamber Honors Congressman DesJarlais with Spirit of Enterprise Award | 2012-03-28 | 2012 | 2012-03 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | The U.S. Chamber of Commerce presented Congressman DesJarlais of Tennessee with the annual Spirit of Enterprise Award for his support of pro-jobs, pro-growth policies during the first session of the 112th Congress. “Over the past year, Congressman DesJarlais has worked to protect and advance the interests of America’s job creators,” said Thomas J. Donohue, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber. “By supporting pro-growth policies, Congressman DesJarlais is helping unleash the power of free enterprise to put our economy back on track and put Americans back to work.” The Chamber’s prestigious Spirit of Enterprise Award, in its 24th year, is given annually to members of Congress based on key business issues outlined in the Chamber publication How They Voted. Members who support the Chamber’s position on at least 70% of those votes qualify to receive the award. According to the scorecard, Congressman DesJarlais maintained a 94% rating with the Chamber this year and collectively holds a 94% ranking during his tenure in Congress. The Chamber scored Congress on 11 Senate and 16 House votes in 2011, including the repeal of 1099 reporting requirements, the 3% withholding from contractors, and the health care law. Also scored were votes for a surface transportation extension and the free trade agreements, including South Korea and Columbia. To view a complete list of the 2011 Spirit of Enterprise recipients, please visit www.uschamber.com/soe. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:10:52Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=060DD2DD-BF5F-427D-A640-E109554E2709 | Representative DesJarlais Votes in Favor of PATH Act | 2012-03-21 | 2012 | 2012-03 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – On Thursday, March 22, 2012, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) voted in favor of H.R. 5, the Protecting Access to Health Care (PATH) Act, which among other things will repeal the Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB) that was set up in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. This legislation passed with a vote of 223-181. Representative DesJarlais released the following statement after House passage of the legislation: “As a physician I’m appalled by the idea of a panel of 15 unelected Washington bureaucrats determining what procedures doctors can provide to Medicare patients. IPAB takes away the ability for seniors and their doctors to decide on how best to meet their health care needs. “This unaccountable board’s sole objective is to control Medicare costs by imposing price controls that will restrict seniors’ access to doctors and ultimately lead to the rationing of care. “I hope that the Senate will join us in repealing this dangerous board so that we can replace it with real solutions that will protect our seniors’ access to quality health care.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:10:52Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=794040E9-DBAB-4B4E-9308-7685E1565E75 | DesJarlais Statement on Report from Government Accountability Office Showing Numerous Duplicative Government Efforts | 2012-02-28 | 2012 | 2012-02 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | On Tuesday, February 28th, 2012, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report showing 32 areas in which there was evidence of duplication, overlap, or fragmentation among federal government programs. GAO has estimated that the federal government could save "tens of billions of dollars" each year by making improvements in these areas. Additionally, the report presents 51 areas where programs may be able to achieve greater efficiencies or become more effective in providing government services. “It never ceases to amaze me how we can all agree that our nation is on an unsustainable fiscal path, yet when common sense spending cuts and reforms are put forth they are subject to vicious demagoguery,” said Representative DesJarlais. “With a national debt of more than $15 trillion dollars, we should all be able to agree that the duplicative spending outlined in this report is inexcusable. I look forward to working with the White House and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to make these very easy spending reductions.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:10:41Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=9EEF56F3-CFBD-4CE3-A6B0-2A106589E6CA | Rep. DesJarlais Votes in Favor of the Private Property Rights Protection Act of 2012 | 2012-02-28 | 2012 | 2012-02 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | On February 28th, 2012, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) voted in favor of H.R. 1433, the Private Property Rights Protection Act of 2012, introduced by Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (WI-05). This legislation preserves the constitutional protections for private property jeopardized by the Supreme Court’s 2005 decision in Kelo v. City of New London. Specifically, H.R. 1433 prevents states from receiving any federal economic development funding for two fiscal years if they use eminent domain to seize property for economic development purposes. It also prohibits federal agencies from engaging in the same practices. “It is critical that we overturn the misguided Kelo decision and restore the basic protections provided by the Fifth Amendment of the Constitution,” said Representative DesJarlais. “This bipartisan legislation will help to prevent the government from seizing Americans’ private property solely for economic development purposes. I was proud to join my Republican and Democrat colleagues in voting to pass this legislation and I hope that the Senate will act swiftly on this bill.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:10:41Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=D8E659BD-A76A-4D81-B3BC-64BA9C691768 | Rep. DesJarlais Votes Against Bill Adding $100 Billion Dollars to Nation's Deficit and Debt | 2012-02-16 | 2012 | 2012-02 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | On Friday, February 17, 2012, Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after voting against the deal to extend the payroll tax break for the remainder of the year. “Today’s legislation will add nearly $100 billion to the debt burden laid on the backs of every man, woman and child in America. Clearly, Washington is both broke and broken. I could not in good faith support a package that continues this trend and once again confirms that our government is still not serious about getting its spending under control. “In December of last year, I voted in favor of a responsible bill that would have extended the payroll tax break for an entire year. This legislation was paid for by a series of commonsense spending reforms and reductions, 90% of which were endorsed by the president. Unfortunately, President Obama and Senate Democrats chose to put politics before the American people and would only accept a two month extension. As a result, rather than passing reasonable bill that was fully paid for, we now have an irresponsible extension that will further add to our nation’s economic turmoil. “I am very disheartened that this Congress was willing to negate a full year’s worth of spending cuts in exchange for political procrastination.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:10:41Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=4633B179-7AAC-4816-B5F1-7FBF7E25C4EF | Rep. DesJarlais: President's Budget Doubles Down on Failed Policies | 2012-02-12 | 2012 | 2012-02 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | U.S. Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement upon the release of President Obama’s $3.8 trillion fiscal year 2013 budget, which projects a fourth straight year of $1 trillion deficits. “I was truly hoping that the president would present a credible plan that puts America’s future before party politics. Instead, he chose to embrace the status quo and double down on his failed policies of the past. “While this budget may appease portions of his political base, it fundamentally ignores the problems that our nation currently faces. I find it incredibly irresponsible for the president to suggest that he can just continue with this reckless government spending binge that is ruining our economy. Our nation needs real leadership from the White House – not a reelection effort. “I am more than willing to sit down with the president and work with him in making the difficult budgetary decisions needed to get our nation back on the right economic track. More budgeting gimmicks, tax increases and government stimulus will not give businesses in my district the confidence to start creating badly needed jobs. “While President Obama may refuse to acknowledge the reality of our fiscal crisis, House Republicans will put forth solutions. We are in the process of introducing a responsible, honest budget that will end the record deficits, create an environment that he | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:10:41Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=1E160F2D-190F-4069-8C79-C6DCFA32C8B1 | Rep. DesJarlais Introduces Bill Preventing Taxpayer Funded Attack Ads Against American Food and Beverage Companies | 2012-01-31 | 2012 | 2012-01 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | U.S. Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) introduced yesterday H.R. 3848 the "Protecting Foods and Beverages from Government Attack Act of 2012." This legislation would prohibit the use of federal money for advertising campaigns against any food or beverage deemed safe and lawfully marketed under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Rep. DesJarlais released the following statement after the introduction of this important and timely legislation: “Our top priority should be restarting the economy and creating jobs – not funding scare campaigns against perfectly safe and legal products. At a time when our nation faces high unemployment, it makes absolutely no sense that federal and city agencies would aggressively advertise against American products made by American workers. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:10:31Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=7AE6DD23-462F-44A3-843E-84119CF05D1A | Rep. DesJarlais Joins Rep. Cooper on Legislation to Deny Congress's Pay for Failing to Pass a Budget on Time | 2012-01-23 | 2012 | 2012-01 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – Representative Scott DesJarlais (R-TN-04) has signed onto a bill by Representative Jim Cooper (D-TN-05) that would deny congressional pay if Congress fails to pass its budgeted appropriations bills on time. “The No Budget, No Pay Act” would prohibit members from receiving pay after missing deadlines for budget and appropriations bills, and it would not allow for that pay to be recouped retroactively. Corresponding legislation has been introduced in the United States Senate by Senator Dean Heller (R-NV). Today marks the 1,000th day – almost three years – since the Senate has passed a budget. “Any family or business owner in my district will tell you that the first step to financial success is creating a budget – the same holds true to running the federal government. It is simply impossible to get our nation’s unsustainable spending under control without a long-term plan in place,” said Representative DesJarlais. “As the first member of the Tennessee delegation to sign onto this bipartisan legislation, I look forward to working with Rep. Cooper to further this commonsense proposal and I applaud him for introducing a bill that puts people before politicians.” "Because America's credit rating is threatened, Congress cannot afford to be late paying its bills," said Rep. Cooper. "Threatening to stop paying Congress is the surest way to make sure we beat the annual Oct. 1 deadline. Congress must get its work done, or get no paycheck." "Year after year, Congress has failed to meet its basic budgeting responsibilities. If Nevadans don't complete the tasks their jobs require, then they don't get paid. Congress should be no different. If Congress does not do its job, then Congress should not get paid," Senator Heller said. "I'm pleased to join Rep. Cooper and No Labels in this bipartisan effort to break political gridlock in Washington." | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:10:31Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=C3C90463-FA11-436A-A487-2A18C0C237AE | Rep. DesJarlais Responds to President Obama's State of the Union Address | 2012-01-23 | 2012 | 2012-01 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | “Tonight marks 1,000 days since the Senate has passed a budget. Rather than a credible plan to address this issue and other serious obstacles facing our nation, what we heard sounded more like a “bumper sticker” speech. “It is puzzling how the president can suggest that we are on our way to an economic recovery when we borrow more than a trillion dollars a year to run our country. “I was hoping to hear responsible solutions to creating jobs, reducing the size of government and controlling runaway spending. Instead, the president chose to recycle the same failed ideas and unaffordable promises.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:10:31Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=90960996-D71A-4E5F-9263-C7B2FE5253D8 | Statement by Rep. DesJarlais on President Obama Denying Permitting for the Keystone XL Pipeline | 2012-01-18 | 2012 | 2012-01 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | “Just when I thought things couldn’t make any less sense here in Washington, today I received the news that the president is actively preventing thousands of American jobs from being created. “This is the same president who has been campaigning around our country for the last couple of months proclaiming that we can’t wait to create jobs. Clearly, his rhetoric does not match his actions. “The Keystone XL Pipeline represents tens of thousands of American jobs – more than a thousand of which will be created in Tennessee. It is exactly the kind of shovel ready project that his failed stimulus package sought to create. “Unions support the construction of the Keystone Pipeline, the states along the proposed route support it, Republicans and Democrats support it and even the president’s own Jobs Council said that energy pipeline projects like this one can create hundreds of thousands of American jobs. “The really unfortunate part is that I truly believe that even the president supports this project but fears political repercussions from his far-left base. “Like many of my constituents, I was extremely concerned to hear the news that Iran was threatening to block the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for oil transportation. With constant instability in the Middle East, it is ludicrous to not move forward with measures that would provide a secure, stable energy supply for America. Now, our ally Canada will likely have to look to other nations like China to buy its oil reserves. “I remain firm in my resolve to seeing that this president’s politics will not trump this shovel ready, job creating project.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:10:31Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=6DFF0055-0CA7-4019-8615-ABD9FE36C457 | Statement by Rep. DesJarlais in Opposition of Raising the Debt Ceiling | 2012-01-17 | 2012 | 2012-01 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | Our nation is over 15 trillion dollars in debt. But what does 15 trillion dollars of debt really mean? Well, it means that every American’s share of the debt is roughly 48,699 dollars. It means that our debt is more than our nation’s yearly gross domestic product. It means we must borrow 40 cents for every dollar we spend. And it means that China can purchase a new F-35 Joint Strike Fighter every two days with the interest that we pay them. While these facts alone should cause concern, the truly frightening part is that there is no plan in place to prevent our debt from continuing to grow. Increasing the debt limit by another 1.2 trillion dollars will mean that by the end of 2012 our national debt will be in excess of 16 trillion dollars. But worse than that, raising the debt limit sends the message to job creators that we are still not serious about making the necessary spending cuts and reforms to pay down this unsustainable debt. My constituents have given me a clear message: make the federal government live within its means. That will require us to prioritize our spending and make tough spending decisions. But there is no other choice. It is simply impossible to continue to run yearly trillion dollar deficits – yet that is exactly what some in Washington want to continue to do. There is absolutely no doubt that if we don’t change course, this reckless spending binge will ruin our economy and bankrupt our nation. That is not fair for future generations. We have an opportunity here today to say enough is enough. We can be the Congress that acts to put this great nation back on the right track. I urge my colleagues to join me in voting in favor of this disapproval resolution. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:10:31Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=F7291E6B-A971-4B9D-A646-D53E46B2C60F | Statement on SOPA | 2012-01-17 | 2012 | 2012-01 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | While protecting intellectual property and guarding against online piracy is important, we need to find a better way to do so than this bill. Congress should not stifle the legitimate and legal use of the internet and the freedom and innovation it fosters. I applaud the online community for reaching out to my office and participating in the democratic process by opening up the debate on this legislation to the public. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:10:31Z |
| https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=3E8E96D1-5F85-47AD-A380-1F2CFAF02875 | Statement on the President's Announcement that he Will Scale Down United States Military Forces | 2012-01-04 | 2012 | 2012-01 | Republican | House | TN | Scott DesJarlais | D000616 | desjarlais.house.gov | desjarlais | https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center | scraper | Representative Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement regarding President Obama’s announcement that he will reduce the United States' military forces. "I am concerned that the military cuts outlined by the President have the potential to make us more vulnerable to our enemies and less supportive of our allies. The President is sending a clear message to those who mean to do us harm, that America’s priority is providing more money for more failed domestic programs rather than making sure our nation’s uniformed military remain the best trained and best equipped fighting force in the world. When I look a mother or father in the eye and know they have sent their son or daughter into harm’s way, I want to do so knowing we have not shortchanged them for a shortsighted focus that puts their loved ones at increased risk. While I remain committed to getting our nation’s financial house in order, the Constitution is very clear on the issue of providing for the common defense of its citizens.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-06T21:10:31Z |
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]);